Vegreville News Advertiser - January 11, 2023

Ukrainian U25 National Hockey Team Given Heroes’ Welcome in Vegreville

Members of Ukraine’s U25 National Hockey Team were given a heroes’ welcome Friday morning at the Vegreville Elks/Kinsmen Community Park. The reception came as a total surprise to the team, said Head Coach Vadym Shakhraichuk. The team was enroute to Winnipeg for additional training and upcoming game when they took the slight detour off Highway 16. “It’s very exciting that so many people came here to see us. We want to thank all the organizers who met us and helped us.”

One of those people who assisted in the effort to bring the Cross Country tour to Canada was TSN Hockey Announcer Gord Miller. He said he had done some work with the Ice Hockey Federation of Ukraine, (IHFU) in the past and the men’s U25 team had qualified for the World University Games. But in discussion with members of the IHFU this past August, they told him they didn’t think they would be able to compete in the event. Through Miller’s conversations and connections enough support was garnered by various individuals, organizations and businesses to sponsor the Ukrainian U25 HEROES’ WELCOME - CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Some of the attendees during the reception. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

National Hockey Team to come to Canada as well as compete in the upcoming tournament in the United States. Additionally, funds raised through the tour will help rebuild hockey programs and arenas in the Ukraine, noted Miller.

One of those organizations Miller reached out to was the Canada Ukraine Foundation who, in turn, reached out to Ed Stelmach, who reached out to Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee to organize the reception with other individuals, various associations and schools in town.

As a result, hundreds of Vegreville and area residents, school children, elected officials as well as several members of the Vipers and Rangers hockey teams were on hand to greet the team shortly before 10 am.

Mayor Tim MacPhee gave a warm welcome to members of the team, coaches and officials to Vegreville. He also wished them good luck on the next leg of their Cross-Canada Tour and best wishes in Lake Placid where they will soon be competing in the Federation Internationale du Sport Universitaire hockey tournament.

MacPhee was surrounded by council colleagues, Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, Lakeland MP Shannon Stubbs, members of the Vegreville and Area Stands With Ukrainian Committee, several newcomers from Ukraine, children from St. Martin’s Catholic School and A. L. Horton Elementary School as well as many well-wishers.

A. L. Horton Elementary School Principal Keri Busenius said, “Our students were excited to join the Town of Vegreville in welcoming the visiting Ukrainian National Hockey Team players and their staff. Hockey is a much-loved sport here in town. Students also understood, however, that sharing Ukrainian carols during Rizdvo would offer a deeper, heartfelt welcome to the players away from home at the holidays during a time of war. We wish them safe travels and many happy memories of Canada to share with family and friends in Ukraine.”

Vegreville and Area Stands With Ukraine Committee Treasurer Sheryl Cymbaliuk, said, “It was so great to see the large number of people who came out to show their support for the U25 Men’s Ukrainian National Hockey Team! I hope it will be a special memory for them to stand under the Vegreville Pysanka, and be welcomed by such a supportive community on Ukrainian Christmas Eve. Slava Ukraini!”

Members of the Baydala family said, “We are very fortunate and privileged to have the Ukrainian Hockey Team visit Vegreville! With all the Ukrainian families that are in the Vegreville area, it’s important to support the team. Bringing a little aspect of Ukraine to their new home in Vegreville.”

Tina Warawa commented that, “It seems very fitting to wel-

come the Ukrainian National Hockey Team today as many Lakeland Ukrainians are preparing for Christmas Eve. To see so many people around them is amazing.”

Vegreville resident and ardent hockey fan Norman Cave said he wanted to attend the reception to show his support for the team. “I watch a lot of hockey and have watched Ukrainian national team play.” Cave said he came to Vegreville 30 years ago and that Ukrainian people were very friendly and welcoming and he wanted to do the same.

Honourable Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, ECA MLA Fort Saskatchewan- Vegreville Parliamentary Secretary for Ukraine Refugee Settlement in Alberta, stated, “I’m here today to greet the Ukrainian hockey team. Mayor Tim MacPhee had reached out to me and told me about them coming here and I wanted to make sure I was here to welcome them to Alberta and welcome them to Vegreville.”

Armstrong-Homeniuk explained her role as Parliamentary Secretary for Ukrainian Refugee Settlement and Chair of the Premier’s Task Force on Ukraine. “With that Task Force we’ve travelled around Alberta. We’ve interviewed over 250 people and we’ve gotten suggestions and they’ve presented to us problems that need to be solved, and we’ve presented that in a report to the Premier that will be given to her on Jan. 15. From there the Premier will decide what she needs to implement.”

Also on hand for event was St. Paul resident Vern Slonowski who carried a flag of Ukraine with him. Inscribed are the names of medics from the front lines serving in the war in Ukraine. Slonowski said, “The flag was a symbolic thank you for the support they are receiving from many of us here in Canada.

It has been a giant team effort with numerous people who’s each and every little contribution has added up to substantial help for the wounded in Ukraine. Locally, since the onset of the Russian invasion, our Ukrainian community has had fundraisers like the church suppers and both live and silent auctions.

This flag went through a silent auction late last year and even though it’s made an incredible journey from front lines to Vegreville to be held by members of the touring Ukrainian hockey team, it will continue to travel to raise awareness and funds for more supplies for those needing it in Ukraine.

Eventually, the plan is this flag will make a return trip to Ukraine with Ukrainian Canadians, returning to some of those towns and villages our grandparents left as children more than a century ago, and to let those currently in Ukraine know we have and always will stand with them.

But for now, the flag with its signatures will get ready for the next round of suppers and auctions.”

HEROES’ WELCOME - CONTINUED from FRONT PAGE

Vegreville Rangers and Vipers hockey players pose for a photo with members of the Ukrainian national team. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Upcoming By-Election in Village of Ryley

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

In a couple of days, a special election will be held in the Village of Ryley.

Voters will go to the polls on Jan. 13 for the by-election that will have two names on the ballot. The candidates are Lyndie Nickel and Joshua Lee. The by-election is the result of the resignation of Annette Short this past fall.

Lyndie Nickel has lived in the Village of Ryley for the past 17 years and served one term on council from October, 2010 to October, 2013. Nickel said, serving our residents, some of my most memorable items that the Village could do then were:

- approach Clean Harbors for a tipping/ hosting fee with their site manager and corporate which we now have in place for 11+ years.

- utilize funds that the youth had collected to complete the building of the skateboard park which is located in the Ryley Sports Grounds

- build a solid asphalt foundation for the current outdoor skating rink for the ice to sit on in the winter instead of dirt and gravel. Also, with our partnership with Clean Harbors, we were able to redo the rink boards and have new lighting installed

- purchase a newer grader for public works

- purchase a new Kubota utility vehicle for public works

- Not to say I am cheap, but I shared a room with the other female council member during our tenure to save money on mileage and room costs to our residents for conferences.

Knowledge and experience to carry forward from previous tenure on council

1. I can read and understand large budget spreadsheets and can make YTD calculations to see where we are sitting in a year percentage wise

2. I know the structure of the municipal government with respect to who you are able to debate with and who you aren’t. Noses in Fingers out!

3. I can keep “In Session” information just to that, confidential. Also, the knowledge of what should and shouldn’t be discussed “In Session”

4. Transparent in all of my earnings from taxpayers. I included any per diems on my remuneration sheets for public so they knew what meetings I was being compensated for.

5. Staying above the law, I refuse to do anything that is not above board. I will fight to ensure we are doing everything legally per the Municipal Government Act (MGA)

Respect, transparency and community are the three planks of her platform. In terms of respect, Nickel stated that, “Council must connect with our community and serve the needs of our people. In regards to transparency, that means “opening the books for our citizens” to view. As far as community, “Rebuilding our spirit of caring for each other and having fun together.”

Nickel previously held several positions with Canada Post as well as ATB in Ryley and Holden. She served with

Beaver Municipal Solutions payroll administration and currently is employed fulltime as the Human Resources/Payroll Administrator.

She believes, Living the life of Ryley means a community that works together, builds together and grows together.

Joshua Lee is 21-years-old. He was raised in the Village of Ryley and currently resides in the community. For almost the past four years he has been working towards a Bachelor of Commerce degree. He is taking courses in person and will graduate this April.

As to why he wanted to run for council?

Lee responded by saying, “I see the

BY-ELECTION - CONTINUED ON

Thank k You

From m Vegreville e Christmas s Bureau u & Vegreville e Coats s For r Families

On behalf of the Bureau executive, volunteers, applicants and their families, deepest gratitude is extended to all the wonderful sponsors of the 2022 campaign. We rely totally on the generosity of the community to provide food, gift items, & grocery store gift cards for those experiencing hardship at Christmas.Individual donations were too numerous to mention, but we want to recognize the contributions of all those who made donations of cash or goods, and held or participated in fundraising events.

Service Clubs Businesses

Individuals Employee Groups Church Groups Sports Clubs Schools Families

and anyone else who supported the Bureau in any way.Special thanks to the owners of the location that we were able to use this year.

In addition, thanks to all the volunteers who worked in our headquarters, raised funds, made pickups and deliveries, sorted hampers, toys and Vegreville Coats for Families items and did the many other tasks required to make this a Merry Christmas for everyone.

Because of you, 452 people were able to celebrate a MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Thank k You u Very y Much!

From barn raisings to harvest time, rural Albertans have a long tradition of lending a hand when it’s needed. That’s why Vision Credit Union is proud to offer grants of up to $10,000 to qualifying organizations for capital projects that benefit our communities.

Could your organization use a helping hand with a capital project ? Scan this QR code to learn how to apply.

Lyndie Nickel. (Lyndie Nickel/Submitted Photo)

The Year of AI

Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser – Opinion

Artificial Intelligence or AI is a phrase that has been bandied around for decades. The first time I heard it was in marketing for video games. Developers claimed that they had AI which did any number of things to make a game more realistic. The game back then would seem like cave drawings by today’s standards and really were only scratching the surface of machine learning. According to IBM, artificial intelligence leverages computers and machines to mimic the problem-solving and decisionmaking capabilities of the human mind.

Do not confuse AI with sentience. Computers cannot experience feelings, nor do they have the ability to think or reason. However, the part of their job where they mimic people? Well, developers have that part down pat, and it’s getting a little worrisome.

We are at the stage now, where machines can make images, video etc., so good that the result is what is known as a deepfake. A deepfake is a “portmanteau” or combination of words. Think smoke and fog…smog, (thank you Wikipedia). When you combine deep machine learning and fake… you get a deepfake. Synthetic media where a person is replaced, (or now created from scratch) and

often used as fake content ranging from the benign such as Justin Trudeau shitless riding a unicorn to other things that can be very sinister and horrible. It is just as easy to create images showing the subject doing illegal or compromising things.

There are now countless apps and services out there that not only let you create “original” images, but also allow you to feed the engine information to learn from. One of the most popular apps currently available is called Lensa. For starters, Lensa acts as a photo editor. Things that 10 years ago would cost hundreds of dollars for a computer artist to do such as make your teeth whiter or remove blemishes from photos can now be done in seconds on a smartphone. There is lots of controversy over Lensa, because the more you feed it images, the more it learns, but… what about your images?

Artists are already having their styles learned and copied by computers which is creating an entirely new problem surrounding copyright.

So, what does it take to create some revenge pics that are deepfakes? Well, it turns out that it doesn’t take much at all. You can start with five pictures. Do you know ANYONE who has posted at least five pictures of themselves online in the past ten years? You have a bit of the bigger picture now and things begin to get real.

Unlike Lensa, most systems doing creation use something called Stable Diffusion and dall-e. Stable Diffusion is a deep learning, (machine learning), text-to-image software released in 2022. It is open source, so free to use. The services you pay for have taken this free software, added a nice front end for you and some hardware to process your work in the background. Dall-e is similar but developed by OpenAI who also created ChatGPT which I will touch on in another article.

Once the hard work is done, you simply feed the machine “information” to learn from. For instance, you can give it a minimum of five photos that it learns from. The more you feed it, the more accurate the results. From there, it’s a matter of giving it instructions. Seeing as how unicorns are hard to catch on camera, that example won’t likely get you good results. However, if you tell it to dress up your subject as a clown or as a biker or in military fatigues…Shazam! Bob’s your uncle and you have fresh images that look real, but are not real at all.

Since many of these systems have access to the internet, they learn from anything they can feed from and get more realistic by the minute. Companies are already using this technology to eliminate photo shoots. A dozen or so high-quality selfies and you can place yourself in a lab, at a boardroom table, speaking on stage or anywhere else. No need for taking any time or investing in the skills of a quality photographer.

We have used similar systems for photo editing from time to

Year of AI - CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

100% AI generated in under five minutes with no input other than words

County of Minburn Appoints Chief Administrative Officer

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Pat Podoborozny has a wealth of education and experience in municipal government and is thrilled to be joining the administrative team at the County of Minburn.

In fact, Podoborozny will be the new administrative lead of operations and responsible for the all of the day-to-day activities in running of the municipality starting on Feb. 6. “I am very excited to work with the staff, council and ratepayers of the County of Minburn,” said Podoborozny.

Podoborozny will take over from Interim Chief Administrative Officer, (CAO) Pat Vincent. Reeve Roger Konieczny announced her appointment as CAO following a special meeting on Jan. 4. “With her municipal experience, council and I believe Podoborozny is well suited to lead the County as we continue to strive for success.”

Podoborozny holds a Certification of Local Government Managers (CLGM) designation and served as CAO for the Town of Bruderheim since 2014. Podoborozny was an employee of Strathcona County for thirty years. She’s a Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) and holds memberships in the Association of Science and Engineering Technology, (ASET) and the Alberta Public Works Association (APWA).

In 2019, Podoborozny was the first female ever to be awarded ASET’s Technologist of the Year. Later, she went on to become the President of become the President of the Canadian Public Works Association. “I really enjoyed the advocacy in Ottawa and bringing rural perspectives of small towns.

Even though she hasn’t had the chance to take a deep dive into the County’s infrastructure, she will be helping to develop a strategic plan. Once that is completed, Podoborozny said, “then it is up to the County of Minburn team to

(Pat

Pat Podoborozny.

implement council’s priorities based on that plan, and come up with a tactical plan to support that. And they’re very well on their way to asset management, which is great…So, I’m happy to implement infrastructure asset management into their strategic plan, and the strategic plan drives the budget into the future.”

Podoborozny said you have to keep looking for funding. Because of the small budget she had to work with in Bruderheim, she said she became adept at leveraging provincial, federal and industry grants to help replace aging infrastructure in that community.

“The job of the administration team is to watch those grants, figure out how to identify our priorities and having a good strategic plan with an asset management plan, and that really sits you well for grant funding. Sometimes grant funding has a very short turn around so you have to be ready with those, and the County of Minburn is well on the way to that.”

Having worked for a small urban like Bruderheim as well as a very large municipality like Strathcona County has been helpful. “It gave me a real unique perspective on the needs of the larger and smaller municipalities and I just feel that I can contribute a lot to the County of Minburn with that unique background as the County of Minburn has hamlets and

there’s urbans within it. So, I just want to contribute to the future of the community that I live in.”

She’s a “big believer” in inter-municipal collaboration and is hoping to do some of that with the Town of Vegreville. She added, “Both the federal and provincial governments appreciate when we use collaboration to look at ways to move ahead things together.”

Podoborozny resides in Vegreville with Ken, her husband of 32 years. They have two daughters, Natasha and Kendra. Natasha is articling with Wilde & Co. and Kendra is a teacher with Elk Island Catholic Schools in Sherwood Park.

Podoborozny/Submitted Photo)

90 Years Ago – January 11, 1933

A sleep-producing machine has been designed at the Northwestern University. Part of the apparatus is built like a loud speaker and emits a low, monotonous hum which it is said, soon overcomes anyone who is within hearing distance.

Vegreville’s most prolonged sporting event, the annual bonspiel, will open sharp at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 17th and will continue for four days. According to the bonspiel officials, there will be a goodly list of visiting curlers from Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan, Lamont, Chipman, Mundare, Innisfree, Vermilion, Mannville, Tofield, Holden, Viking and possibly Ryley.

Considerable discussion, at the meeting of the Council of Beaver Lake, took place re the financing of schools. Mr. Stanley Francis on behalf of Holmdene School District stated that if funds were not forthcoming the school would be forced to close, notwithstanding the fact that they had some $3,300.00 of arrears outstanding.

Moved and carried, at the meeting of the Council of Beaver Lake, that the Councilors fees for meetings and road supervision be reduced to $3.20 per day and 8 cents per mile, road supervision not to exceed 15 days per year.

75

Years

Ago – January 14, 1948

The pupils of Highlow School are bright spots wherever they appear these days, in their new school sweaters. Money for this enterprise was raised under the supervision of Mrs. L.G. Frederking, supervisor at Highlow.

Safe blowers whose trail led toward Edmonton, entered two premises in the town of Willingdon sometime Wednesday night, of last week, and blew open two safes with explosives, and escaped with approximately $180.00 in cash. RCMP in Edmonton reported Thursday. The Alberta Government Liquor Store and the Willingdon Co-operative Store were entered.

Tanks on tractors and gas engines should be kept full of fuel in cold weather. Air will condense and create moisture in an empty tank.

Hail occurred on 61 different days during the past season (1947) and losses are estimated at 160% of normal, according to the review of operations of the Alberta Hail Insurance Board. Hail damaged 530,356 of the 3,023,446 acres insured with the board and 4,907 farmers so insured collected on claims. About 1,900 of these claims were from a 60 mile strip across the province with its southern edge on the Wetaskiwin-Camrose line where hail struck on five different occasions leaving heavy destruction in each case.

50 Years Ago – January 11, 1973

Lynn Kealy of Edmonton skipped his mixed curling rink to top prize in the weekend mixed bonspiel sponsored by the Heather Curling Club. His team comprised of lead Janice Hoosier; Second, Brad Hoosier; third, Donna Treble and skip Lynn Kealy.

Second Event Winners consisted of Skip, Ernie Youzwishen; third, Margaret Ziegler; second, Clarence Steinbach and lead Olga Gegolick.

Third Event Winners consisted of Skip Dwight Miller; third, Sandra Miller; second, John Reynolds, second and lead Linda Reynolds. Young Mr. Vegreville for 1973 arrived at St. Joseph’s General Hospital on January 4th winning an array of prizes for his happy parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mike Horon, and himself from the merchants of the town who participated in the “First Baby” contest. Kevin Michael Horon weighed in at 8 lbs. 4 ¾ oz. and was the first baby born in Vegreville in 1973

Universal Bottle Depot operated by Mutual Surplus Sales in Vegreville had a huge day on Saturday last when the Alberta Government’s program to collect bottles of all kinds swept into operation. Mike Markowsky said they handled 8,000 bottles, including 3.533 wine and liquor bottles and the balance beer and pop.

25 Years Ago – January 13, 1998

Brooke Bauer was born at 10:33 a.m. on January 4,1998 to become the first baby born at St. Joseph’s Hospital this year. Her proud parents are Kelly and Monique Bauer of Vegreville along with big sister Amber.

The V.C.H.S. Cougar Band, joined with the grade 6 A.L. Horton School band students (better known as the Cubs) to perform at several places during the Christmas season. They started at the Husky Plaza Mall on December 6, and then played at the Rotary Club carol festival and December 14, under the direction of Lisa Topilko and Barb Bienvenue. The Cougars band also performed a selection of Christmas carols for the residents of the Homestead Lodge on December 17, directed by Mrs. Bienvenue.

Vegreville Coop and Gray Beverages teamed up to become one of two double diamond sponsors for the Northeast Alberta Winter Games coming to Vegreville on January 23. Hostess through in another $1,000 and the $6,000 cheque was presented to games coordinator Kevin Kisilevich.

Mark Tetreau, Grand Knight of the local Knights of Columbus organization, and Jim Baber, Grey Cup ticket chairman presented Winter Games chairman Ron Hnydyk with cheques totaling $400.

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.

Trudeau Bingeing on Alcohol Tax Hikes in 2023

inflation every year on April 1. With inflation reaching a nearly 40-year high, Canadians are facing a sky-high tax hike of 6.3 percent in 2023.

With sky-high inflation, climbing interest rates and carbon tax hikes, you could be forgiven for drinking. But Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is rubbing margarita salt in the wound by using high inflation to binge on higher alcohol taxes.

In 2023, the Trudeau government is increasing the taxes you pay every time you buy a bottle of wine, a case of beer or a mickey of rum by 6.3 percent. But even a 6.3 percent tax hike downplays the total tax burden you pay every time you visit the liquor store. Taxes already account for about half of the price of beer, 65 per cent of the price of wine and more than three-quarters of the price of spirits.

You could spend about $125 if you pick up two bottles of wine, a 24-pack of beer and a 26-ounce bottle of whisky. You’re paying more than $76 of that tab just in taxes.

In fact, Canadians pay so much tax that picking up a case of beer on the way to a party in Prince Edward Island would cost you more in taxes than the total retail price of a case of beer in 25 American states.

While Canadians are paying higher taxes, Americans are enjoying tax cuts. From 2017 to 2019, federal beer taxes went up $34 million for large brewers in Canada while going down $31 million south of the border.

The feds have been bingeing on alcohol tax hikes since the 2017 budget. That year, the Trudeau government introduced an automatic tax hike escalator. That means the federal excise tax automatically increases with

When the escalator tax was first introduced in 2017, there wasn’t much of a fuss because inflation was lower. But even small tax hikes can become big bills over time. After the 2023 tax hike, the federal government’s alcohol excise taxes will have increased by 18.4 percent because of the automatic annual tax hike that was first imposed in 2017.

That’s what is so pernicious about Trudeau’s alcohol escalator tax. At first, you don’t really notice it, but every year the tax burden goes up just a little bit. And in less than a decade, the tax hike is already more than 18 percent.

Jean-Baptiste Colbert was France’s finance minister in the 17th century. Colbert said the job of the tax man is “plucking the goose as to obtain the largest possible amount of feathers with the smallest possible amount of hissing.” You’re the goose. And politicians are using the alcohol escalator tax hoping you don’t notice all the plucking and hiss back.

Trudeau’s alcohol escalator tax is fundamentally undemocratic. If politicians think Canadians aren’t paying enough tax, then they should have the spine to at least vote on the tax hike. But your Member of Parliament doesn’t vote on this tax hike. Through the escalator tax, the Trudeau government uses inflation to covertly increase its tax take every year on April 1.

There’s one thing that will stop the Trudeau government from using the undemocratic alcohol escalator tax to take more money from you: people noticing. The feds have binged enough on alcohol taxes. It’s time for Canadians to tell the government that it’s cut off.

Franco Terrazzano is the Federal Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.

- Richard Kluger -

Franco Terrazzano Canadian Taxpayers Federation

FROM THE PAGES OF THE VEGREVILLE OBSERVER COMPILED BY DAN BEAUDETTE

Every time a newspaper dies, even a bad one, the country moves a little closer to authoritarianism...

Mundare Council Approves Cost of Living Allowance for Employees

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

At the Jan. 3 Town of Mundare regular meeting council voted to give employees a three percent Cost of Living Allowance, (COLA) for 2023.

Chief Administrative Office Colin Zyla said that was in line with neighbouring municipalities which approved COLA’s between three and four percent. He added that council could approve 1.5 percent that would cost roughly $6,000 in total for the town’s six fulltime employees.

Councillor Sandra Nicholson stated, “I think 1.5 is typical for any business.” She suggested they could look at pay increases later on based on a pay grid scale. “But, going straight to three percent is going to be a prerequisite every year.”

“Not necessarily, and that three percent is not

giving a person an $11,000 bonus. That is what it costs us in total for all of our staff,” replied Councillor Rick Patrie.

Zyla noted, “The reason for the three percent is because inflation has been so high in the last year or so. It’s not to say we’ve got to give 3 percent next year or the year after that. Every year council decides. There’s no policy that saying that we get a certain percentage every year. It’s brought forward to council based on what’s happening and council makes a decision based on that.”

The three percent COLA equates to $11,700. Councillor Irene Talaga made the motion to approve the three percent COLA increase. The motion was carried unanimously.

Year of AI - CONTINUED from PAGE 4

time. While we have some of the tools and skills, instead of investing 15 or 20 minutes into a photo, I can simply upload it and have a computer do it for me.

Prices for these services range from free to much more than that. You get what you pay for. However, some high-quality options are as little as $65 for 1,200 images. That’s pretty good value.

The flip side of course is that some people will be out of work and human creativity is likely to erode. Just as important, we will no longer be able to tell what is real and what is not.

Images are just the beginning.

Computers have already created original music, literature and this week, voice. More on that to come as well.

Maybe we ARE living in the matrix. Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com

More AI generalted art created with keywords of Fred Flinstone and Hunting

Happy New Year! First, I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Colin Klassen, and I am the new President of Vegreville and District Minor Hockey Association. I took over the reins from Tina Warawa, who was the past President for the last several years and would like to thank Tina for all the years of hard work and time she dedicated to the association as President of VDMHA.

It is great to be back at the rink, seeing the excitement from all our athletes who are playing this year. It’s also great to be back post Covid, and having lots of parents, siblings, grandparents and Vegreville Wrangler fans coming to watch each game. It sure gets the players excited to see their fans in the stands.

The 2022/23 season has begun, and it has been a very different start to the season. First of all, we have a very new Executive Board which is great, as this brings new ideas, and will positively impact the association. We went back to our roots and re-joined the NEAHL league after playing in the NAI league the last few years. With changes, always presents some challenges, and we have and will continue to work through those as they present themselves and hopefully the remainder of the season will be smooth as we are onto the second half of the season now.

One new item that we are proud of is that VDMHA and the Vegreville Jr. B Rangers have partnered together, to make both Associations prosperous. We are working closely together to help each other out when it comes to volunteering for home games and providing a Jr. Ranger of the game from our U11 teams. The kids love it! Coach Carter has been helping our Wrangler goalies hone their skills, and it’s much appreciated.

Lastly, I’d like to thank the Town of Vegreville and Arena Staff for the great ice and facility we get to use every day. Thanks to the parents, players, coaches and managers and extended families for the dedication that is required to play this great game. It is a big commitment and without you, our Association would not exist. Finally, all the volunteers who continually put their hands up to help wherever needed, it is greatly appreciated and THANK YOU!

There’s still lots of season left, so come on down and cheer on your Vegreville Wranglers!

Sincerely, Colin Klassen

progress Council has made towards improving the community. Also, based on my vision for the community and my education, I know that I would be able to assist the current council in making Ryley all that it can be. My skills would be additional assets to Council and the residents. I know there is concern about my age, and the perception that I may be inexperienced, however, I have lived long enough to know that age is not correlated to intelligence.”

If elected, Lee said, “I would bring the following traits to this

role: good judgement, professional character, and the leadership that is required for this role. This stems from my education and training received during the course of my degree, and from my time as an intern working to assist the previous CAO, (Ron Cust).

When asked, “Why should residents vote for you?” He responded, “Residents should vote for me if they agree that the village should be placed on a path for

success. I have read the village’s strategic plan, and I agree, in principle, with the plan to move the village forward. The plan sets out a manageable path of success that can be achieved in this council term.

If elected, Lee said, “My plan would be to assist council to implement systems and processes to ensure the continued viability of the village.” Included in his campaign literature, Lee said that if elected he would:

• Continue to reduce the overall operating costs for the village.

• Keep and enhance services, such as fire and water services for the village.

• Complete overdue repairs to the aging infrastructure, i.e., sidewalks, roads, village owned buildings, etc.

• Look for ways to attract economic development in the village

• Complete the upgrades

to main street streetscaping.

• Create more festivals and engagement from the community.

• Create intern positions for youth to assist with their education.

• Look for ways to gain meaningful public participation.

• Look for ways to enhance the safety of the community, (E.g., Reconstituting Citizens on Patrol, etc.)

• Purchase a community bus to aid seniors with their transportation needs

MR. CLASSIFIED

small shed; includes ATCO Gas Lease SIXTH: SE 19-49-17-W4th (156.33 ac) 141.8 cultivated acres

SEVENTH: SE 23-49-17-W4th (160 ac) 107.1 cultivated acres

EIGHTH: SW 24-49-17-W4th (160 ac) all pasture

Any grain and grain bins stored on the NW 1349-17-W4th, if not already removed, will be removed on or before June 1, 2023.

Tenders are to be submitted in writing for each individual parcel, in a sealed envelope marked “Charles Kelly Stock Farms Ltd. - Tender”, and setting out short legal description of the property as well, to Martin West at Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP, Barristers and Solicitors, 501652nd Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1V7, on or before 12:00 noon, February 3, 2023, and shall be accompanied with the Tenderer's GST number and a Bank Draft payable to Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP in trust for 10% of the tender price.

Tender price excludes GST.

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

Tenders will not be opened in public.

The deposits of all unsuccessful tenderers will be returned to them by regular mail.

This Tender may also be viewed

The successful Tenderer shall be obligated to complete the purchase on or before 12:00 o'clock noon MARCH 1, 2023 (“the Closing Date”). The 10% deposit shall constitute a deposit towards the adjusted purchase price. If the successful tenderer fails to complete the purchase after acceptance of that tender, their deposit will be forfeited.

Vendor makes no warranties or representations about the property's size, condition or environmental state.

The purchase & sale shall proceed utilizing title insurance including “GAP” coverage. The cost of title insurance shall be borne by the Purchaser.

Tenders are irrevocable and shall remain open until dealt with by the offices of Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP.

All normal adjustments for the property including but not limited to taxes and rents shall be adjusted as at the closing date.

For further particulars please contact Charlene Johnson at 780-781-3463.

the Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP website: www.fwsllp.ca

WANTED

BY-ELECTION - CONTINUED from PAGE 3

Joshua Lee. (Joshua Lee/Submitted Photo)

Wildlife Supper & Trophy Ball

SATURDAY,

It was incorrectly stated in the article ‘Deadly Collision South of Andrew’ which appeared in the Jan. 4 edition that the Myrnam Fire Department had assisted with extrication and traffic control when in fact it was the Lamont County Emergency Services, (LCES) Mundare Station that provided that assistance.

Dave 780-367-2011 Eugene 780-768-2149

Wendy Brook Music Festival March

6-13, 2023

Open to all ages, all instruments, band, choral, voice, community music, speech arts and Ukrainian speech and song performances.

Registration & Payment on-line at: http://wendybrookmusic.wixsite.com/wendybrook Registration forms can also be printed off from the website, and completed registrations, with the fee, can be mailed to: Wendy Brook Festival, Box 2075, Vegreville, AB T9C 1T3.

If you would like to support the festival, or ask questions not answered on the website or by the participant's music teacher, contact Larissa Bombak: 780-632-4907 or wendybrookmusicfestival @ gmail.com Registration Open: January 13 - February 19, 2023

Village of Chipman Cautioning Snowmobilers

dent that happened on Nov. 29, 1960.

Village of Chipman Chief Administrative Officer Pat Tomkow said two reports were made to the office, and that the complainants are very disturbed by this. “I don’t blame them for being upset,” stated Tomkow.

“Seventeen Chipman students lost their lives and the behavior of the ski-doo operator represents a total disregard for what the monument stands for. As you can appreciate there is a lot of community sensitivity surrounding this matter as substantial dollars including time, effort and planning went into the siting of the monument,” stated Tomkow.

News Advertiser

The Village of Chipman is putting snowmobilers on notice after tracks were discovered mere inches from a large granite monument beside the National Hall last week.

The monument has been in place since late summer and was officially dedicated last fall in memory and honour of the students who died in the bus-train acci-

One of the skidoo tracks runs over top the cement pad which is the base of the monument. Tomkow said an accident could cause severe damage to the monument and possibly injure the driver.

Tom Hrehorets, Chairman of the Bus-Train Memorial, wanted to make people aware that this was a very expensive project. “We would like to preserve this for many more years to come. Please respect this monument. Stay a safe distance from it. That would be greatly appreciated.”

Michelle Pinon

Monument adjacent to National Hall. (Village of Chipman/Submitted Photo)

Monument adjacent to National Hall. (Village of Chipman/Submitted Photo)

Semi-tractor trailer that was involved in the collision. (LCES Mundare Station/Submitted Photo)

Tributes

MEMORIAM MEMORIAM OBITUARY

Nine years have passed since that sad day.

The one I loved was called away. To touch your face, hold your hand, To see your eyes watch over me.

God took you home.

But in my heart, you live still The tears my eyes can be wiped away. But the ache in my heart will always stay.

My time with you very special.

My love Devine.

I will always love you.

One day if it is Gods will, We will be together again.

Lovingly remembered and deeply missed, by your wife Verna.

Peter Sharun

January 10, 2014

The sadness never goes away, the silent tears still flow.

But now you’re with the Angels, Safe and sound in Heaven above.

for all you were to us in life, And all the joy you brought, Your memory is with us, In every single thought.

The day you left and gained your wings, Our hearts broke in two, We wish you could have stayed with us, But Heaven needed you.

Sadly missed along life’s way, Quietly remembered every day.

No longer in our life to share, But you’re in our hearts, You’re always there.

Lovingly

See You!

A beautiful life came to a sudden end, He died as he lived, everyone’s friend, He was always thoughtful, loving and kind, What a precious memory he left behind. He left us suddenly, his thoughts unknown, But he left us memories we are proud to own.

Treasure him, God in your garden of rest, For in our world, he was one of the best. Forever in Our Hearts Mom, Sharon, Wade, Brandon Kelsey, Laresa & Shantel

MEMORIAM

Who passed away January 5th, 1989.

As years go by you realize how precious life is. Especially The loved ones that are no longer by your side.

We are blessed of the years that you were with us. Remembering the good and the happy times in our lives with you.

That twinkle in your blue eyes that smile on your face and the mischievous laughter that always will be in our hearts.

The love, guidance, patience and understanding that Was passed to us through you is a true blessing. These memories are proved to be golden.

Nothing can ever take away the love a heart holds dear.

Fond memories linger every day.

Remembrance keeps you near.

Your spirit is always with us, we feel your guidance and protection. For you are our “Angel”, that a loving God knows best. You are in our thoughts and prayers every day.

In our hearts you live forever, because we thought the world of you.

Ever loved and sadly missed by your wife Rose, Son Brian, Daughter Shirley Rattray, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In

February 22, 1979

John Saskiw January 23, 1983

Arms of Angels

You rest in the arms of angels

In a place of peace and love.

Watching over us always From heaven up above

You guide us through our worries

And help us through each day Always by our sides

You never went away

The bond cannot be broken Made from love so pure Death does not break the bond It lives on for ever more You rest in the arms of angels Free from illness and pain Waiting for the day we are together once again. Lovingly remembered and greatly missed

By daughter Rose Hook, Daughter in law Betty Saskiw, Grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

In

:

You can only have one mother Patient kind and true; No other friend in all the world, Will be the same to you.

When other friends forsake you, To mother you will return, For all her loving kindness, She asks nothing in return. As we look upon her picture, Sweet memories we recall, Of a face so full of sunshine, And a smile for one and all.

Sweet Jesus, take this message, To our dear mother up above; Tell her how much we miss her, And give her all our love.

Lovingly remembered and deeply missed by your family, Brian, Charlene, Lana, Bria and Tyra Kevin and Tracy

OBITUARY

It is with deep sadness the family of Rodney Cecil White announce his sudden passing in Camrose, AB, on January 5, 2023.

Rod, the youngest child of Cecil and Agnes White, was born in Medicine Hat, AB on April 15, 1959. He was raised on a farm near Jenner, AB. It was there that he met Maritta Hohloch, of Medicine Hat, while she was teaching Kindergarten in Jenner. They were married on October 15, 1988. Rod and Maritta were blessed with three children—Cecil, Samantha, and Makayla. His family was Rod’s greatest pride and joy.

In 2000, the lure of trees and greener pastures called to Rod, so the family purchased land at Ranfurly, AB. The cattle, machinery, house, and family all relocated in 2002. Ranfurly became the home where they would raise their children.

Rod is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Maritta; son Cecil, and daughters Samantha and Makayla; his brother, Neil; sisters Janet Coffey, Jackie Wambolt, Suzanne VanEgmond, Donna Koropczak (Peter) and Ruth Frank (Larry); sister-in-law Heidi Okell (Dave); mothers-in-law Dena Hohloch and Mary Hohloch; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunt, and friends. Rod was predeceased by his parents Cecil and Agnes White; brothers Chuck, Eric, and Paul, and father-in-law Walter Hohloch.

Rod had a strong will and courageously fought an eleven month battle with cancer until the day his heart could take no more.

Rod’s outgoing personality, his love, and his cheerful “Hello there!” when he answered the phone will be missed by his family and all who knew him.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, January 13, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church (4513 Maple St.) in Vegreville, Alberta with Pastor Greg Kjos officiating.

The family would like to extend a thank you to the staff of the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, St. Mary’s Hospital in Camrose, and Two Hills Hospital for their compassionate care of Rod.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Rodney’s name to the “Alberta Cancer Foundation” or “Riverside Compassion House Society.” To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

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

CHOMIK, Olga

June 20, 1929 – December 27, 2022

On December 27, 2022, Olga Chomik of Viking, Alberta passed away peacefully with her family by her side at the age of 93 years. A beloved Mother, Baba, Super Baba and Auntie.

It

-

Bob

Bob is predeceased by his parents James and Hazel Clark, brother Don Johnson and sister Flo Reid. Born in Kelowna, British Columbia, Bob was raised in Kamloops, British Columbia. This is where Bob would start his family and commercial driving career. Commercial driving took him all over North America for over 40 years. Bob moved to Alberta in the early 80’s where he would establish roots to grow his family. After meeting Carol and buying a farm outside of Mundare, Bob became an active member of the community by joining the RCMP as an Auxiliary Constable.

Bob enjoyed nothing more than working on the farm, cuddling up with his dogs and telling a good joke.

Cremation has taken place and a private Celebration of Life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Diabetes Canada in Bob’s name.

Her laughter, smile and love will be deeply missed by her 4 children, Maurice (Jean), Marion (Lynne), Annette (Ken) Skoropad and Audrey (Bill) Inkin; her 8 grandchildren, Jason (Chrissy) Chomik, Jacinda (Wade) Rolph, Celena (Craig) Voshall, Aaron Inkin, Ashton (Regan) Wisnowski, Alyssa (Tanner) Dion, Jennifer (Corey) Kramps and Karen (Matthew) Stewart; along with 16 great-grandchildren. Olga was predeceased by her husband Stan in 2001; parents Peter and Magdeline (Verbitsky) Bednarski; 2 brothers Ed and Frank Bednarski; and 3 sisters Annie Zowtuk, Mary Tchir and Josie Paliwoda.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, January 5, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at the Holy Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Viking with Fr. Robert Lee as the Celebrant. Interment to follow in the Viking Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to “Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute -8440-112 St NW.,Edmonton, AB.,T6G 2B7” or “Holy Heart of Mary Catholic Church -Box 274, Viking, AB.,T0B 4N0.”

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

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

remembered & deeply missed Gordon, Marilyn, Brett & Tamara

WHITE, Rodney Cecil

SASKIW, Katherine & John

Loving Memory of Katherine Saskiw

HOOK, Mike

In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather

CHORNEY, Sheldon Glen

In Loving Memory of Sheldon Glenn Chorney March 13, 1973 - January 15, 2003

In Loving Memory

SHARUN, Peter

May 15, 1926 - January 10, 2014

SHULKO, Judith July 28, 1944 – January 16, 2015

Loving Memory of a Dear Mother, Grandmother and Mother-in-Law

Bob Clark

is with sadness that Bob’s family announce his sud

den passing on January 4, 2023.

will be lovingly remembered by Carol, his wife of 40 years, Bonnie (Kevin) McBride, Bobbi (Colin) Campbell, Andrew (Kristen) Clark, grandchildren Aurora, Sellene, Asher, Braven, Evie, Emilee, Dylan, Kaisley and Colt, sisters Cathy (Tom) Cavaletto and Ruth Clark (Ron Niegum) as well as numerous extended family and close friends.

OBITUARY

December 14, 1997 – January 2, 2023

It is with extreme sadness that the Dubuc and Koroluk families announce the sudden and tragic passing of Cole Koroluk of Vegreville, Alberta at the age of 25 years on Monday, January 2, 2023.

Cole is survived by his mother Aline Dubuc; his father Brant Koroluk and his only brother Brett Koroluk; his grandparents Albert and Stephanie Koroluk and Betty Dubuc; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives and friends. Cole was predeceased by his maternal grandfather Henri Dubuc; his uncle Randy Leliuk and his great-grandparents.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Father Robert Lee on Monday, January 9, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church in Vegreville, Alberta. A private interment followed in the St. James Russo Orthodox Church Cemetery – Mundare. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the “Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation.” To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

Elizabeth (Li) Giebelhaus

The Families of the late Elizabeth (Li) Giebelhaus wish to express their sincere appreciation to the friends and family who surrounded Mom with love, prayers, support, and kindness in her last days. Your selfless acts will be forever cherished. So much gratitude for the beautiful cards, calls, e-mails, visits, sustenance, floral arrangements and messages of love and care.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to her friend and Minister, Reverend Anne McGrath for being with Mom during her last weeks and then officiating her funeral. We were humbled by Reverend McGraths generous gifts of time, communion, and prayer. Thank you to Colleen Albert for sharing her musical talents on the organ at the funeral and for the Men’s Choir - ’14 Friends of Li’ who came together to worship and honor Li one last time with a musical tribute that included countless favorite hymns of hers. A very special thank you to the family and friends from St. John Lutheran for creating a sanctuary of love at the Social Center where we were able to worship and celebrate Li – Our family continues to be deeply moved.

Sincere thanks to each of you who were able to brave the cold and join us on what had to have been the ‘coldest’ day in December 2022 to celebrate Li by participating in the service and joining us for fellowship and remembrance. Heartfelt thanks for that gesture of love and caring. As well, thank you to Patti and Gordon from Autumn Rose for their compassion, guidance, and professional care.

So much gratitude for the countless donations of remembrance to Charities of your choice, the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, The Vegreville Comfort Patient Society and the Wendy Brook Music Festival – all causes very dear to Li.

As a family we will be forever indebted to each member of the Palliative Home Care Team that cared for Li to the very end in her home, with the gentlest hands, genuine compassion, and utmost

KOROLUK, Cole Brant

Ukrainian Christmas Eve with Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church Choir

Kindergarten

Fortier News Correspondent

Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church Choir presented an evening performance of Ukrainian and English Christmas carols to the residents at Homestead Senior Citizen’s Lodge on Jan. 6.

Organizer Sonia Tatarin said other then it being Ukrainian Christmas Eve she decided to host the performance because she worked at this lodge for 33 years. “My sister, Marie Yakimowich,

mentioned that our choir should perform here and the lodge agreed to let us sing carols.

Also, when I worked over there all those years, I used to sit by the table and did a lot of different types of singing in my free time with the residents so I know that they really enjoyed it.”

Attendees Louise Dubuc said the music is always welcomed there. “It was nice to see old friends.”

Jessie Bodnar said the caroling was very good. “I understood everything in Ukrainian and English.”

Rosanne

Above: The Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church Choir caroling.

Left and Right: Some people in the audience listening to the music. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos)

Viking RCMP Investigate Theft to Local Business

Viking, Alta. - On Nov. 15, 2022, between the hours of 3:30 and 4:30 a.m., four suspects unlawfully entered a business located on 50 St. in Viking, Alta. Approximately $12, 000 worth of tools and supplies were stolen. 3 vehicles were also damaged.

Later that day, a suspicious vehicle was reported at a gas station in Bruce, Alta. This vehicle was determined to be a match to the one used in the break and enter in Viking. A number of the stolen items could be seen in the bed of the pick-up truck on the surveillance footage obtained from the gas station. The same vehicle was later observed in the City of Edmonton selling items believed to be stolen from the Viking business.

On Nov. 24, 2022, the vehicle was reported as suspicious to Edmonton Police Service (EPS). EPS members responded and located the vehicle in the possession of two suspects. The vehicle was seized by EPS and on Nov. 28, 2022, Viking RCMP con-

ducted a search warrant on the vehicle. A number of items were seized which are suspected of being stolen from the Viking business.

In total, approximately $1,100 worth of tools has been recovered. Viking RCMP members are continuing to attempt to locate the outstanding items.

Melissa Stickles (35), of unknown address, has been charged with:

- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000

- Possess Break-in Instruments Stickles is currently on outstanding warrants for these charges.

If you have any information regarding this crime, or have information on Stickles’ whereabouts, please contact the Viking RCMP at 780-336-3434. 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.

The Richard’s family from the Mundare area go skating at the rink at Vegreville Elks/ Kinsmen Park on January 7. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo

Alberta RCMP Submitted

Vegreville 4-H Multi Club

Off to a Good Start

This year has been busy. We started off by choosing the club positions. The General Leader is Connie Steinwand and members of the executive are as follows: President Allyson, Vice President Kaylynn, Secretary Piper, Treasurer Abby, Club Reporters Rebecca and Corbin, Club Historians Hunter and Tyler, and District representatives Caiden, Max, Hudson and Amelia.

This year’s projects are: foods, arts and crafts, light horse, health and fitness, and small engines.

Our first club activity was tire and electronics recycling. We picked up tires and electronics from around the county. Our next club activity was the Halloween party where we rented the pool and the dance studio. We ordered pizza and had a fun time swimming. Lastly, we had a Christmas party where we played games and did a gift exchange.

The Vegreville 4-H Multi Club has had a great start to the year and is looking forward to more activities in 2023.

Vegreville 4-H Beef Club December Report

Mears and Cooper Axten Club Reporters

The Vegreville 4-H Beef Club has been busy this December. At our December meeting we had Carl Pipke give our members a Record Book Workshop. There were a lot of details covered and the members can now get started on their project records.

On Dec. 9 and 10 a few of our Junior Members went down to Bruce to attend the annual Fall Fling Camp. They all had a lot of fun meeting new friends, playing games and making crafts.

InnisfreeMinburn 4-H Beef Club December Report

Hess Club Reporter

We held our monthly club meeting on December 14 in Innisfree where we welcomed another new member, bringing our total member count to 24! We discussed our plans for a club Christmas party and for our upcoming public speaking competition. We also held a halter making workshop.

Our club discussed where we would like to go for our club field trip this year, but have not yet booked a location or date.

Members have been working hard on their project animals, getting them halter broke, and show-ring ready.

Our club participated in Innisfree’s Holiday in the Hallway, where each member provided baking to sell at the event.

Dec. 13 had the

in record time.

The last activity members had was on Dec. 22 at the Vegreville & District Coop, where members sold Raffle Tickets. We split up into shifts throughout the day and had a great turn out.

Happy New Year from the Vegreville 4-H Beef Club.

On December 28, we went to Border Escapes for our club Christmas party. Everyone had a great time! The older members were the only successful group to get out of their room in time, even beating the adults!

Matthew

Club Reporters Cooper Axten and Matthew Mears at the Fall Fling Camp. (Vegreville 4-H Beef Club/Submitted Photo)

Corbin Lockhart and Rebecca Allan Club Reporters

Peyton

members volunteering their time at the Christmas Bureau in Vegreville. We had a great turnout of volunteers and were done

2022 is now behind us. We invite you to look back at the events that shaped 2022 as seen in the pages of the News Advertiser. This section also gives you a glimpse of many of the businesses we interact with every day in our communities. Some are starting out or under new ownership and others have become pillars in our communities. The Businesses In This Section Support Our

Local Communities. Please Support Them Whenever Possible.

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

2022

5

- At the regular meeting on Monday, December 13, 2021 Vegreville Town Council unanimously approved the 2022 Operating budget. 2022 Operating budget highlights: No increase in the municipal portion of property taxes; Cost of living allowance for employee compensation of 2.5% after two consecutive years of 0%.

5 - People who follow the Julian calendar celebrate the traditional Ukrainian Christmas Eve on January 6 and Ukrainian Christmas Day on January 7. Some traditions which are followed are a meatless meal on Christmas Eve which is meant to honor the animals that were in the stable when Jesus was born. The 12 meatless dishes represent the 12 apostles.

5 - Even though Andrew area athlete Colton Foreman didn’t have his best performances at the Skate Canada Challenge in Region Dec. 1 and 2, he has already put it in perspective and is working harder than ever to up his game.

12 - The Town of Vegreville and the County of Minburn No. 27 have come to terms on a joint Fire and Emergency Services Agreement. The new agreement will come into effect on January 1, 2022 and will carry through until December 31, 2031.

12 - Long-term Lamont County employee and Agricultural Fieldman, Terry Eleniak has been recognized for 25-years with the Association of Alberta Agricultural Fieldman (AAAF). “We have many committed leaders in our organization, and this is a great accomplishment,” said Peter Tarnawsky, interim Chief Administrative Officer.

19

- Over the past several months, Emergency Medical Services, (EMS) has experienced an increase in emergency calls of approximately 30 percent, with demands on the service now at historic levels. Staff illness and fatigue are also contributing to challenges in the EMS system. We are extremely grateful to our EMS staff, who continue to go above and beyond to help Albertans in times of need.

19 - Members of the Mundare Recreation Centre board celebrated Marsha Woloschuk’s 90th birthday and presented her with a plaque for her many years of services as Past President, board member and resident cook. Woloschuk celebrated her 90th birthday on Dec. 27, 2021.

26 - Extreme fluctuations in temperatures from plus 5 degrees Celsius to minus 40 degrees Celsius has produced freezing rain, snow, strong winds and everything in between.

At the January 19 County of Two Hills meeting council briefly discussed a letter from the Town of Two Hills requesting a meeting to discuss

Metis Crossing tells the distinct Indigenous story of the Metis people through a variety of hands on cultural activities, and recently added a number of new experiences for visitors this winter.

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

2 - Fortune Minerals Ltd. has officially entered into an option agreement with JFSL Field Services to purchase its former steel fabrication facility in Lamont County for $5.5 million.

2 -

before county council via

conference on January 29. Genereaux said she began her appointment back in mid-November. While she does not know how long she will be acting in this role, she told council she will be setting out initiatives for the New Year at another meeting.

2 - Around 150 people, (30 families) attended the Family Literacy Day Celebration at the Vegreville Lions Club Splash Park and Playground and the parking lot of the Seniors Citizen Sunshine Club on January 29.

9 - Vegreville & District

of

President Marc Bredo said, “The Chamber is excited to introduce Roxane Bordyniuk as our new Chamber manager. We are thrilled at Roxane’s eagerness to assist our business community and look forward to her continuing the Chamber’s directive in driving and supporting Vegreville & District businesses.”

9 - Elk Island Catholic Schools, (EICS) board of trustees officially appointed Paul Corrigan as Superintendent of Schools effective Feb. 1.

9 - Mary Brown celebrated her 102nd birthday with all of her lodge “friends” at the Tofield Seniors Citizens Lodge on Wednesday, February 2. Many of her family, including her three senior citizen children (Lynn, Allan and Judy), were able to join her that afternoon for a smaller celebration.

16 - The Rotary Club of Vegreville has received a significant funding boost from the Province for its proposed skatepark. It recently received confirmation that it was successful in obtaining $350,000 from the Province of Alberta under its Community Facility Enhancement Program, (CFEP). 23 - “We are so grateful to have our project chosen for this funding,” stated Patti Johnston, Rotarian and Skatepark Committee Chair.

23 - Evan Raycraft is the newest member of council in the Village of Innisfree after winning a by-election on Feb. 7. He was officially sworn into office on Feb. 15 and said he’s looking forward to serving the community, a place he has grown to love since moving there a year and a half ago with his wife and three children.

23 - Community Association for Lasting Success (CALS) offered their first in-person session in the last few years of the Baby Mess Makers program on Feb. 7 at Senior Citizen Sunshine Club of Vegreville.

23 – Norman De Wet is still getting his feet wet as the County of Minburn’s Director of Operations, and said he’s very excited about taking on this new opportunity.

16

Smoky Lake RCMP Acting Detachment Commander Cpl. Roxanne Genereaux appeared

video

Chamber

Commerce

- While mild temperatures are welcomed by many people they also create a host of other challenges on roadways and sidewalks this past week. A build-up of ice has resulted in hundreds of plugged sewer mains and pooling water on top of roads and sidewalks making it difficult, and in some cases hazardous for pedestrians and motorists alike.

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

16 - Students and staff at Lamont High School showed their solidarity with Ukraine on March 1. All students and staff were encouraged to wear blue and yellow, the national colors of Ukraine, to stand in solidarity with the people of that country.

16 - Town of Vegreville Councillor Taneen Rudyk organized an International Women’s Day Luncheon to honor Vegreville’s past female elected officials on Tuesday, March 8, 2022. In total, of the nine ever elected female members of Vegreville Town Council, seven were able to attend the event.

23

2 - Based on the 2021 federal government census results, Smoky Lake is the fifth fastest growing town in Alberta. According to the data, population in the Town of Smoky Lake increased by 163 residents since the last Census that was conducted in 2016. The current population is 1,127 compared to 964 in 2016. An increase of 16.9 percent.

9 - Wendy Brook Music Festival is Live! Much to the delight of students, teachers, parents and the Wendy Brook Music Festival Committee, the Wendy Brook Music Festival has returned to a mostly live format, and is in full swing this week. Piano, Vocals, Speech Arts and Ukrainian are live, but Instruments are online.

30 - Wild boar is an invasive species in Alberta, and Lamont County is taking a proactive steps to prevent them from becoming an invasive species within the municipality. During its March 22 regular meeting, council passed all three reading of the Wild Boar Bylaw. As stated in the bylaw, the purpose is to prevent the establishment of wild boars in Lamont County.

30 - Whether Derek Wright was stationed abroad with the military or at home with Lamont County, his commitment to policing has been steadfast. Wright, who now serves as Lamont County’s Community Peace Officer, (CPO) recently received the Alberta Emergency Services Medal for 12 years of

first

role.

9 - A crowd gathered in front of the town office in Mundare late Sunday morning in support for the people of Ukraine. Mundare resident Charlotte McKellar organized the rally with the support of the Town of Mundare and its elected officials.

23 - The Vegreville Fire Department Club received a big funding boost for its Fire Training Centre this past week. Richardson Pioneer showed its support for the project with a $25,000 cheque that was presented to members on March 9.

- New Kiew Parish Donates to Relief Efforts in Ukraine 1. Members of the New Kiew Ukrainian Catholic Church of Holy Ascension were pleased to donate over $4,000 to relief efforts in Ukraine. The Parish matched the first $1,000 of donations collected from members and guests attending the New Kiew Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League 75th Anniversary celebration held earlier this month.

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

6 - Plans to open a charter school in the Village of Holden are one step closer to reality with Education Minister Adriana LaGrange granting conditional approval to the application put forward by members of a community group.

6 - Elected officials with the Village of Ryley will be discussing a number of recommendations at its April 8 meeting which Municipal Affairs, (MA) has made following its preliminary review of the municipality. The review was in response to a petition that requested an inspection into the Village of Ryley that was filed with MA in November of 2021.

6 - Lamont County council initially approved $8,500 to host a delegation from its sister city in Nebyliv, Ukraine this summer. The plan was to host the delegation one day prior to the Babas & Borsch Ukrainian Festival which is slated to get underway Aug. 28 in Lamont.

13 - The outpouring of support at the Haying in the 30’s cancer fundraiser in St. Michael Saturday evening was unsurpassed as more than $40,000 was raised for the charitable organization.

2022

13 - Cindy Santo did the honors of cutting the ribbon to celebrate the grand opening of Baba’s Bistro in Mundare on April 9. Cindy wants Baba’s Bistro to be a “community place of relaxation” and is planning on a number of special events, some of which will include: paint night, trivia night, game night.

13 - It’s now official. Sheila Lupul is the new Chief Administrative Officer, (CAO) for the Village of Andrew.

20 - The Rotary Club of Vegreville’s skatepark project got a financial boost from one local business recently. The Brick store in Vegreville donated $2,000 towards the project and presented the cheque to Rotarians Rick Rutter and Patti Johnston on March 23.

20 - A total of 25 producers attended a special workshop at the Two Hills Curling Rink on April 6. The event was hosted by the County of Two Hills, and topics included: growing industrial hemp for fiber and farm insurance policy review.

20

- Beaver County council answered the call for humanitarian aid in Ukraine, hand delivering a $5,000 cheque to members of Lamont County council on April 12. Beaver County Reeve Kevin Smook said they were happy to make the donation on behalf of the citizens of Beaver County after council passed the motion to donate monies on March 17. The funds will go to the Canada-Ukraine Foundation, (CUF).

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

4 - Kayleena Spiess began her official duties with Beaver County during council’s April 19 regular meeting. Spiess said her first few days have been busy, but fantastic at the same time. “Both council and staff have been very welcoming. I am excited to hit the ground running!”

4 - Ground work began at Prosperity Park in Vegreville this past week. Crews with In-Line Contracting began moving dirt on the 78 acre site that will be home to the first of what the town hopes will be several more agri-food companies in the near future. The total price of the contract the company was awarded by the Town of Vegreville is $6.5 million. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of September, (2022).

11 - Doctor Dalia Hassaballah is in the process of setting up her medical practice in the Town of Mundare. Dr. Hassaballah is hoping to be able to open the Mundare Medical Clinic in early June and has hired receptionist Cherie Deacon.

11 - Members of the Vegreville Muslim Association, (VMA) celebrated Feast of Eid al-Fitr on May 2. Association President Deen Amusat said the feast started with early morning prayers followed by a get together with families who enjoyed refreshments and each other’s company at the VMA centre.

18 - Mundare was a haven for bargain hunters looking for great deals during its annual town wide garage sale on May 7. A steady stream of people could be found strolling the streets and back alleys during the day long garage sale that had a total of 61 registered participants.

4 - Bob Mitchell is now the longest serving firefighter in Canadian history! The milestone achievement was reached in early April with Lamont County firefighter having completed over 25,773 days of service, (approx. 70.5 years). That surpassed Walter Thomas of the Fort Saskatchewan Fire Department.

18 - April 21 was the one of the most memorable moments of Bonnie Woloschuk’s life according to Woloschuk! This was the day which Woloschuk was honored with the Sovereign’s Medal for volunteers presented for volunteers on behalf of the Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada. Woloschuk was invited to Ottawa to receive the medal during a ceremony held on this day.

25 - Vegreville town council has signed-off on a Green Light Program. This allows volunteer and on-call firefighters with the Vegreville Fire Department, (VFD) to utilize a forward facing flashing green light on the dash of their personal vehicle while responding to the fire station for emergencies.

25 - Village of Andrew council has appointed Steve Upham as its new Interim Chief Administrative Officer, (CAO). Upham said the opportunity came as a “pleasant surprise” and he is looking forward to the challenge.

25 - As far as street lights, the Town of Vegreville recently committed to spending just over $287,000 to convert all of its street lights to LED after being approached by ATCO. On April 25, council voted in favour of the proposal.

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

1 - Pierre Benetreau is back in familiar territory, and couldn’t be happier. The former branch manager of Tingley’s Harvest Center in Vegreville after a four year absence. Benetreau explained that he left the company back in 2018 to pursue his Master’s Degree in Business Administration and officially returned to his former position about a month ago.

1 - Gerald Babichuk has been shuttling students to and from H.A. Kostash School for 47 years, and this year the Aspen View Public School Board of Trustees presented him with the 2021’22 Bus Driver of the Year Award. Babichuk gratefully accepted the special award from Trustee Dennis MacNeil during the 2022 Staff Awards and Recognition Night on May 6 at the Thorhild & District Community Hall.

8 - The 20th annual Chipman Show ‘n Shine returned to the streets of the community on June 5. Participant John Uganecz was all smiles and happy to be a part of such a popular event that attracted with 350 registered vehicles and well over 2,500 plus spectators to the village which is home to around 250 residents.

2022

8 - Even though the Alberta Treasury Branch, (ATB) officially closed down its operation in Ryley on May 12, the company is working alongside council to offer weekly in-person banking services for residents. ATB Media Relations Strategist Sapna Gupta stated, “We’re working with the Village of Ryley to determine the best time and place to be there to ensure we can provide maximum support, especially for our Ryley clients who have limited mobility.

15 - The Vegreville & District Food Grains Growing Project is continuing in 2022. On May 16, a 120 acre parcel of hard red spring wheat was seeded west of town. For the past few months, the Canadian Food Grains Bank and its member organizations have been providing humanitarian aid to the Ukrainian people who have been impacted by Russia’s brutal invasion. Funds raised through growing projects across Canada (including Vegreville’s) have been used to fund various projects in Ukraine, such as providing emergency food and shelter, operating logistic centers, transporting food into Ukraine, and transporting refugees to safer areas.

22 - There was something for everyone during the annual Holden Family Fun Day on June 11. There were events from early morning to late at night, much to the delight of visitors and residents alike.

29 - Hundreds of people flocked to Metis Crossing on June 25 to celebrate the culture, arts, music and traditions of the Metis people.

29 - Vegreville Elks Lodge No. 143 members presented a $1,000 cheque to Vegreville and Area Stands With Ukraine Communications Chair Nicole Lakusta on June 8 at the Elks Hall.

22 - Rodeo action returned to Viking on June 11 and 12 thanks to members of the Cloverlodge Stampede Association. It was the 42nd consecutive year the rodeo has been held in the community and was greatly appreciated by fans. The weather played a key role in success of the rodeo that was enjoyed by folks of all ages.

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

13 – Members of Iron Runners Auto Club of Vegreville (IRACV) gathered at Vegreville Elks/ Kinsmen Park to showcase their vintage vehicles and celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day on July 8.

13 - The Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo that was held at the Conrad Schinkinger Memorial Grounds July 9 and 10 was a success on all fronts. From the highly anticipated rodeo events to the fun-filled kids rodeo to the children’s activity zone to the country dances to the combine demolition derby.

20 - Trevor Tychkowsky has received the Commissioner’s Commendation Award for his volunteer work with rural crime watch and as an auxiliary member with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, (RCMP). The Commissioner’s Commendation is the highest internal honour that can be presented to an employee of the RCMP.

6 - Thousands of fans flocked to Dewberry June 25 and 26 to watch some of the best Chuckwagon racing around. Cruise Bensmiller was a part of the action, and the rookie driver said he was happy to carry on the family tradition and help keep Western heritage alive.

6 - Staff and patrons of the Vegreville Centennial Library said goodbye to Library Manager Donna Williams on her last day of work. “I have been at the library this time for 11 years. I did work for the library for two years just after I moved to Vegreville 26 years ago,” said Williams. She said she would be moving away to be closer to her family.

13 - An estimated 2,000 people lined the streets of Lamont to take in the parade on July 9. ‘Celebrating Homegrown Roots & Heritage’ was the theme of the parade that featured 70 plus floats. Mayor Kirk Perrin said, “This was a fantastic return to parade year for the town!”

20 - The picnic shelter at Rotary Peace Park in Vegreville is now sporting new curtains. Rick Rutter, Chair of the Rotary Peace Park Society, said they finished installing a total of 13 curtains on June 9. Rutter was happy to receive the assistance of fellow Rotarians Greg Senko, Paul Ziprick, Ann Waters and Dan Beaudette.

27 - Canola is the most eye catching crop when it is in full bloom and there were many canary yellow fields dotting the local landscape last week. Crops appear to be doing well under favourable weather conditions.

27 - The Chetwynd, BC resident is walking from Bella Coola, BC to Winnipeg, MB to help bring awareness and work to eliminate the stigma of mental health. He’s just over the half way point in what can only be described as a grueling journey on foot through Prairie Provinces. He stopped in Vegreville this past week for a brief lay over and shared some of his thoughts about mental health and his personal journey.

27 - Vegreville Fire Department (VFD) played host to 22 students from the TEXAS 4000 Riders team who were on their 46th day bike ride through United States and Canada where the first stop they met up in Vegreville was at the Vegreville Elks/ Kinsmen Park on July 20.

3

17 - Sandra Nicholson is entering a new phase in her life. Being a part of the community is very important to her, and that is why she decided to let her name stand for nomination in the recent byelection in the Town of Mundare. On Aug. 10 she won the by-election by acclamation and is very excited about her new role as a member of town council.

24 - The weather was absolutely perfect for the Mannville Fair on Saturday, Aug. 20. Folks were up bright and early to take in the pancake breakfast. An estimated 200 people were served at the breakfast that was held at the gazebo on Main Street. The parade featured 30 entries and there were many children’s activities as well as a market that followed outside and inside of the recreation centre.

10 - Country music fans were treated to electrifying performances by both headliner Gord Bamford and Travis Dolter who opened Friday night’s concert at the Wally Fedun Arena in Vegreville. Travis Hicks said he always enjoys coming back to his hometown to attend the Vegreville Fair and was “so pumped” that Bamford was going to be performing in concert. Hicks said he especially loves Bamford’s older songs and has been a fan since he was young.

- The Smoky Lake Stampede was jam-packed with exciting events and plenty of entertainment for rodeo fans on July 30 and 31. In addition to the traditional events, there were some old cowboy games and fun-filled kids’ activities to keep things interesting between rodeo performances.

31 - Tofield Mayor is speaking out on a proposed redesign of Victim Services in a strongly worded letter to the Minister of Justice and Solicitor General Tyler Shandro. The letter, dated Aug. 23, was circulated to other municipalities and stated that the Town of Tofield Council only recently became aware of the Victim Services Redesign and to say that we are both shocked and disappointed would be a vast understatement.

7 -

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

21 - County of Minburn Council announced the appointment of Pat Vincent as Interim Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) on Sept. 12. According to a news released posted on the county website, “Pat has over 40 years of extensive municipal experience as a CAO. Since his retirement from Parkland County in 2015, Pat has served as an interim CAO for both rural and urban municipalities including Westlock County, Thorhild County, Town of Olds, and County of Vermilion River.

21 - Fire Destroys Full Throttle Truck and Trailer Repair on Sept. 19. Vegreville Fire Department was dispatched to the scene at 11 am and remained on-scene for most of the day. It was reported that everyone had been evacuated safely and cause of the fire remains under investigation.

28 - Henry Matoga didn’t plant sunflower seeds this year, but lo and behold the Ryley resident is happy to have a giant sunflower in his garden. While he didn’t measure the sunflower it towers over his six-foot frame and could definitely be considered an anomaly. “I just came up naturally. I guess the birds brought it,” remarked Henry. The Ryley area resident spent most of his life as a “city slicker” but the quiet country life suits him just fine. Henry said he’s lived in the area for 15 years and has developed a passion for gardening.

The Village of Andrew has agreed to sign off on a five year lease agreement of its Mini Golf Course with Tammy Pickett, Owner of Unwind Bar & Grill. The decision was made during the Aug. 24 regular council meeting. Pickett, who sits as a member of town council, was recused from discussion and voting because she had a pecuniary interest in the matter.

14 - The first order of business at the Sept. 6 Town of Mundare council meeting was to swear in Councillor Sandra Nicholson. Mayor Cheryl Calinoiu did the honors before they got down to regular business. One of the highlights is the upcoming dedication for Dr. Albert Bandura that will be held on Sept. 24. There will be the official unveiling of the Bandura Avenue road sign before a banquet that evening at the Mundare Recreation Centre.

5 - Thousands of people converged on the Town of Smoky Lake on Oct. 1 to take part in a variety of activities that were held throughout the day during the Great White North Weigh Off and Pumpkin Fair. Wall to wall traffic jammed the main routes and many people walked to the different venues instead of drive. The downtown core was filled with hundreds of vintage and antique vehicles. Crowds were estimated to be upwards of 8,000 people.

12 - The Village of Ryley held a public engagement session for residents at the Ryley Community Centre on Sept. 26. Ron Cust, Chief Administrative Officer, (CAO) for the Village of Ryley, was very pleased with attendance which he estimated to be around 100 people. Residents had the opportunity to meet one-on-one with council, staff and consultants during the event.

19 - Around 4,700 people attended Vegreville Corn Maze which was offered every weekend from September 10 to October 16 at Vegreville Regional Museum grounds. 26 - Warwick Ladies Club presented a High Tea Party for their Centennial Celebration at Warwick Hall on October 23 with approximately 65 people in attendance. Club members hosted this event and they said they wanted an afternoon tea to accommodate

diverse group of ladies to reminisce and celebrate a wonderful organization.

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

2 - Elected officials are lobbying for the reinstatement of the Stroke and Geriatric Empowerment (SAGE) rehabilitation program at the Two Hills Health Centre. On Oct. 31, Town of Two Hills Mayor Leonard Ewanishan and County of Two Hills Reeve Don Gulayec and other local officials had a virtual meeting with Health Minister Jason Copping regarding the closure of the unit and possible options to have it re-opened.

2 - Vegreville Town Councillor Taneen Rudyk recently returned from an international global forum for municipal leaders in Daejeon, South Korea. She was one of 3,200 participants from 80 different countries in attendance at the forum that was held from Oct. 10-14.

9 - More than 250 Grade 7-12 students from Vegreville Composite High School honoured the service and sacrifice of Canadians who have fought in war and continue to serve in the armed forces and emergency services during the annual Remembrance Day Ceremony on Nov. 4.

23 - The Kassian family was one of 15 farm families honoured at Farmfair International. The family farms 10 miles northeast of Innisfree in the County of Minburn. Kevin and Carmen along with their two children Carson and Camille were on hand to receive the Farm Family Award that was presented during a gala in Edmonton on Nov. 11.

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

2022

in 2015. While curling was once widely popular, Ag Society President Dwayne Durie said they did not have regular league play and only a few bonspiels in recent years.

14 – New Myrnam School Assistant Principal Robert Tymofichuk 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.

21 - Around 130 people attended A Christmas Cantata at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Vegreville on Dec. 11. Coordinator Colleen Albert said they were planning this Cantata for their Christmas Eve service. “So, we decided to have an additional performance as it would be a good opportunity to get some benefit to the people from Ukraine.” The event raised $1,385 for Vegreville and Area Stands With Ukraine Committee and $1,205 for Living Waters Lutheran Church.

21 - Claystone Waste Ltd. officially announced plans to construct a $4 million state-of-the-art aerated composting facility adjacent to its sanitary landfill which is located near the Village of Ryley this fall. The facility is expected to begin operating next summer and will process up to 20,000 tonnes of source separated organics, including biodegradable supports such as wood fibre per year.

Construction is expected to create up to 40 jobs that will contribute to ongoing employment growth in the region with three to four permanent positions required for operations at the composting facility, stated Claystone’s Chief Operating Officer Corey Popick.

21 - Vegreville Welcomes Fire Chief and Health and Safety Officer Mitch Newton. He brings a wealth of experience to the position thanks to a 22 year career in emergency, fire, and law enforcement sectors.

28 - On Dec.

13, Lamont County council presented two local charities with proceeds from its annual charity golf tournament.

Mundare Easter Basket received $8,650.73 and the Lamont County Food Bank received $17,301.46. Lamont County Reeve David Diduck stated that, “This year has seen a difficult time for our community as many friends and family members are directly impacted by the war in Ukraine.