Vegreville News Advertiser - January 18, 2023

Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medals Presentation

On January 14, at a special ceremony, Honourable Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk ECA, MLA for FortSaskatchewan/Vegreville and Parliamentary Secretary for Ukrainian Refugee Settlement presented Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medals to recipients at Vegreville Legion Hall.

Homeniuk said they were gathered to pay tribute to those who have given of their time and talents to service in our community, our province and our country. “As you know, Albertan’s Platinum Jubilee medal commemorates the 70th Anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second’s accession to the Throne as Queen of Canada. She had dedicated more then 70 years of remarkable years of continual service to Canada, the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. This extraordinary achievement

makes her Britain’s longest reigning and longest lived monarch.

Her Majesty had expressed her wish that Jubilee events be an occasion for enjoying a sense of togetherness, and optimism about the future which makes today the prefect opportunity to celebrate the achievements of people who make our communities better. Today’s medal recipients lead rather than wait to be led, they tackle challenges head on, and they see problems as opportunities instead of obstacles. Congratulations to everyone receiving this special distinction today.”

The medal recipients from Vegreville included: Ellen Essery, Jenny Cooper, Rhonda Hayduk, Rhonda Manz, Kathy Dmytriw, Diane Fausak, and Terry Kuzyk. Medal recipients from Two Hills were Richard Karpo and A.M.A Satar and the medal recipient from Mannville was Vicky Marshall.

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Award recipients from L-R: Rhonda Hayduk, Jenny Cooper, Presenter of medals and MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, Rhonda Manz, Ellen Essery, Kathy Dmytriw. Missing from group photo were Diane Fausak, Terry Kuzyk, Vicky Marshall, and A.M.A Satar. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

January 9

02:03 – Report of a vehicle taken from the owner without consent from a location in Mundare. Members followed up with the complainant who indicated that someone had spoken with the subject of the complaint and the vehicle had been recovered. Charges are pending.

11:14 – Report of a trailer on the road at RR 173 and TWP 522, partially blocking the roadway. Members attended and located the trailer which they determined to be stolen. The trailer was towed to a storage compound and the rightful owner updated. Under investigation.

16:17 – Report of a grey or silver Ford F250 with a tidy tank was on fire on RR164 with no crossroad indicated. The call taker requested that the caller hang up and call 911. Fire department attended to deal with the fire. Under investigation.

17:27 – Report of an unwanted female outside a Vegreville business disturbing customers and panhandling. Members attended but the subject of the complaint was gone. Complainant was advised to call back should the subject return to the location.

20:04 – Complainant attended the detachment indicating that they had downloaded an app to their phone and subsequently the phone was hacked and personal information was stolen. Members examined the phone but could not find any evidence of an offence. No suspicious bank or other activity noted.

21:56 – Vehicle theft reported. The complainant indicated that they were at a Vegreville gas station and went inside at which time the vehicle was stolen. Members attended and reviewed CCTV. The vehicle was added to the RCMP database, and the matter is under investigation.

January 10

03:19 – 911 call to report a vehicle fire at a Vegreville area mechanical shop. The fire was extinguished, no one was present on scene and there were no injuries. Under investigation.

12:04 – Report of a male on a park bench in Vegreville offering people money to walk him home. The caller believed the subject of the complaint was intoxicated. Members attended and located the subject who was indeed intoxicated but almost home. He was receiving assistance from a friend who would ensure he would have a safe place to sleep and sober up.

Members ensured the two arrived safely.

14:24 – Report of fraud. Complainant attended the detachment to report bank transactions that were not initiated by them. Based on the information provided, it appeared that someone would need the complainant’s PIN number to withdraw cash. Under investigation.

15:32 – Complaint received about an agreement for work that had not been completed. One party indicated that they paid for work and it was not completed. Both parties were advised that this was a civil matter, (no RCMP jurisdiction) and advised to work something out and avoid court.

January 11

15:03 – Complainant indicated that they ware instructed by Amazon to report a possible theft to police and provide them an RCMP file number in order for them to investigate. No evidence was provided to members. A file was opened and under investigation.

17:08 – Report of a dog found in Vegreville. Client indicated that the Black Lab who was friendly and had a collar, (with no tags) showed up outside the business. Members advised the staff to hold on to the dog in hopes that it was an escapee from a recent client and if no one returned it could be brought to the animal rescue. The family of the dog returned and were reunited.

21:14 – Call from St. Joseph’s Hospital to report an issue with an intoxicated male who came in earlier. The male was now causing a disturbance and refusing to leave. Members attended and arrested the male. He was brought back to spend the night in cells where he would be warm and safe to sober up.

January 12

05:52 – Report of a suspicious vehicle in a residential area of Vegreville. Members attended and located the truck which was determined to be stolen out of Vegreville. The vehicle was towed. Under investigation.

10:53 – Report of mail theft. Complainant indicated that they ordered two phones from their phone provider and never received them. The phone provider advised them to report the theft to the RCMP. Members advised the complainant to revisit their correspondence and confirm the shipping details. The complainant called back later indicating that another family member had picked up the phones.

12:40 - Facebook Scam. Complainant indicated that they sent $1,500 to a seller on Facebook Marketplace to hold a car part. The

seller indicated that they had not received the e-transfer and to send the money again. At this point the complainant realized they had been scammed. The complainant with the assistance of the RCMP and their bank were able to have the bank reverse the e-transfer before additional money was taken. Under investigation.

14:06 – Fraud. Complainant reported that they received a call from their phone provider who requested their Drivers License and Credit Card information which they provided. The caller then “disconnected.” The complainant called back the phone company who indicated that they never called the complainant to request this information. The complainant cancelled their credit card. Under investigation.

January 13

09:15 – Report of a car in the median on Hwy 16 near RR 172. It appeared that the driver was slouched over the steering wheel. Members attended and spoke with the driver who was fine. He stated that he went to drink coffee and veered off the road. Road conditions were not considered to be a factor.

January 14

Nothing of note January 15

15:32 – Report of a larger, short haired red/ brown mixed-breed dog approx. 50 lbs. found in their yard this morning. No tags or tattoos. Member advised if the owner not located that they should call the Vegreville animal shelter if the owner is not located.

19:56 – Report of an intoxicated male yelling outside and trying to get into the house. Shortly after a report was received of a male walking down the middle of the street. Members attended, located the male and arrested him for public intoxication. He was held in cells to sober up.

20:00 – Edmonton Parole Office advised of an outstanding warrant from Correctional Services. Members located the subject at his residence and he was arrested. He was held in cells awaiting transfer in the morning.

During the week there were 67 calls for service made in total including: 0 false alarms, 0 false 911s, 4 animal strikes, 13 relationship violence, 10 calls under the Mental Health Act or related to mental health, and approximately 4 tickets from traffic enforcement.

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

Smoky Lake RCMP Investigating Structure Fires

Smoky Lake RCMP are investigating after two recent fires in the area. The first incident was on Dec. 7, 2022. At approximately 8 am, Smoky Lake RCMP received a report that a grain silo was burnt down sometime during the previous two days. The silo was located on Township Road 594.

Then on Dec. 23, 2022, at approximately 8 pm, Smoky Lake RCMP responded to a structure fire on Range Road 165 and Highway 28. The entire building burnt down.

According to Smoky Lake County Fire Chief Scott Franchuk, fire crews did respond to that structure fire on Dec. 23. Franchuk said it was an old abandoned school. “The structure was completely engulfed when we arrived on scene, a defensive attack was deployed and we

contained the fire to the structure. Once the roof collapsed in and the walls weaken we pushed the walls in on itself so the fire could not spread. Crews remained on scene until 2208, once the fire died down crews cleared scene and returned to the fire hall. Smoky Lake County Emergency Services will be working with RCMP on the investigation with RCMP taking the Lead.”

RCMP said both buildings were not in use at the time. It is not known if the fires are related.

If you have an information regarding these fires, you are asked to contact the Smoky Lake RCMP at 780-656-3691. If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), by Internet at www.tipsubmit.com or by SMS (check your local Crime Stoppers www.crimestoppers.ab.ca for instructions).

RCMP files from January 9 - 15 Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Town of Mundare Revving Up for 2023 Ride For Dad

Pinon News Advertiser

The Town of Mundare is once again revving up to welcome participants in the 2023 Ride For Dad on June 10.

The riders will stopping in for lunch and the Town of Mundare and Stawnichy’s will be providing the lunch on a 50/50 cost basis which is estimated to be around $670 each. At the Jan. 3 meeting of council, Deputy Mayor Glen Rozumniak made the motion to share the costs of lunch, and that motion was carried unanimously.

Mayor Cheryl Calinoiu stated, “On behalf of town council I would like to thank the organization that is putting together the Ride For Dad. Stawnichy’s Meat Processing will join the Town of Mundare cooking a quick warm lunch on the day to welcome the Ride For Dad rally this summer. It is an honour to be a part of such a meaningful cause.”

Riders also stopped in the Town of

Mundare during the Ride for Dad in 2014, 2015 and 2016 to enjoy the hospitality of locals and barbecue lunch. Around 750 riders are expected during this year’s event.

The Ride For Dad was first established in 2000. Its charitable arm is the Prostate Cancer Fight Foundation with a mission to save men’s lives by funding prostate cancer research and raising awareness about the disease across Canada having raised more than $37 million since its inception.

The Ride For Dad was founded by President Garry Janz and National Ride Captain Byron Smith. The first ride was held in Ottawa 20 years ago, and today, rides are held coast to coast in Canada.

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in Canada.

According to the Canadian Cancer Society 67 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every day and 13 men die every day of prostate cancer.

Michelle

From L-R: One of the ride organizers, Nelson Santos, Gord Steinke and Mayor Charlie Gargus. (Town of Mundare/Submitted Photo)

Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser – Opinion

ChatGPT. If you haven’t heard of it before, it’s about time you did. It is an artificial intelligence chatbot and also a technology that is going to change our world.

Yes, that’s a bold statement, but when you look close enough, it looks like an unstoppable force and it’s just in its infancy. What is ChatGPT? Well, for that answer, we might as well just ask the technology itself. I’ve requested access but as you can imagine the demand is high and approval has not arrived in time for press, so I will borrow the answer that it provided to the folks over at Mobile Syrup, (a Canadian source of mobile technology news).

“ChatGPT is a state-of-the-art language model developed by OpenAI that has the ability to generate human-like text responses in real-time. This powerful tool has the potential to revolutionize the way we communicate online, enabling us to have more natural engaging conversations with chatbots and virtual assistants.

One of the key features of ChatGPT is its ability to understand and generate context-aware responses. This means that it can follow the flow of a conversation and provide appropriate responses based on what has been said before. This is a major improvement over traditional chatbots, which often struggle to understand the context of a conversation and can provide unrelated or unrelated responses.”

There’s more, but you get the idea. That description could easily be passed off as something written by a human. That last part… the

last four words was not a typo by me. That is what it wrote and one of the few flaws it displays. All in all, not bad for the first widespread public release of this technology.

The current version was launched in November of 2022 and has “limited knowledge of world and events after 2021,”due to the data that was used to train it and the fact that it is not connected to the internet for the purpose of collecting new data. Having made note of that the data it was trained on could not be read in one human lifetime, or 100 or 1,000 according to Prof Michael Wooldridge, director of AI research at the Alan Turing Institute in London, England.

Within weeks of public access, people began asking it for many things. On the simple side it was asked questions like the description of itself above, a recipe or a poem. More complex requests ranged from college assignments or creating a fitness plan, to checking code written by programmers. Recently code was made public that had been written from scratch by the AI for nefarious purposes. Yes, the AI is now writing malware and a 3,000-word thesis on Marxism.

One man used ChatGPT and an illustration AI Midjourney to write and illustrate a children’s book in 72 hours. He was inspired after reading a bedtime story to a friend’s daughter. After self-publishing the book “Alice and Sparkle” creator Ammaar Reshi, was met with a mix of reviews. Some praised his ingenuity and use of technology and others accusing him of being a fraud and stealing the work of.

It is hard to explain how exciting and at the same time scary this is. Testers have been using the current version which has been public for under 60 days. This is “version 3”. Competitor in the AI space DeepMind has a product ready for release they call Chinchilla AI. They claim to outperform ChatGPT 3 and other AI systems based on various tests but there is no way for the public to use Chinchilla because it is still in the testing phase. ChatGPT-4 is expected to be released in 2023 and some reports indicate that it will be 100,000 times more powerful… whatever that means.

Artificial Intelligence expert Nina Schick stated in an interview with Yahoo Finance that ChatGPT and similar systems could generate 90 percent of online content by 2025. There has been much speculation on this and what happens when humans are influenced by AI generated literary works to a point where we may become…. What? Irrelevant? In the literary world?

One company has toyed with AI powered mental health support. What could go wrong there? And another has offered $1 million in assurance to have their AI bot defend a court case in the US Supreme court. They claim to already have two cases in lower courts and will have AI reply to questions by using a loophole in “audio aids.”

At this point, which is very early in the life of AI, it is primarily being used as a tool. I have cited a number of examples of where it is already being tested. What is not yet known is how much it is going to cost? By some estimates, OpenAI is burning through about $1 million per day in cash and have been polling users on what rates would be palatable. One concern is that charging for the service will create another separation in society with some people who can afford to use it and some who cannot.

While none of us are going to be replaced any time soon, it really depends on your version of “soon.” Search engines should be very afraid. By this time next year, they could be obsolete. The legal angle is interesting and worth a read as well, should that interest you. One thing that you CAN be sure of is that AI is upon us, and our world will be changing because of it… soon.

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

Mayor Tim MacPhee is one of several mayors in western Canada lobbying for a different travel route for VIA Rail’s transcontinental passenger train ‘The Canadian’ to follow, one that would provide passage to and from Vegreville along the CN Prairie North Rail Line.

‘The Canadian’ is operated by VIA Rail Canada with service between Toronto, Ontario and Vancouver, BC using CN trackage. The proposed route would be diverted from the CN Main Line at Melville, Saskatchewan to Canora, Saskatchewan and then west on the CN Prairie North Line to Edmonton where it connects back to the CN Main Line.

According to a recent report prepared by Prairie North Rail Passenger Train Inc., the proposed route would:

• compete with less CN freight traffic, helping VIA Rail to achieve better on-time performance and improve rail safety

• travel through larger population centres to reach more potential VIA Rail customers

• connect more Indigenous and rural communities

• travel closer to more National Historic Sites and National Parks

• offer more scenic topography

MacPhee said Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers spearheaded the effort with the support of other mayors. “I lent Vegreville’s name to the cause about a year ago. For the last four

or five months I’ve been sitting in on the meetings with the mayors and listening to their updates.

It makes sense in all of our opinions of all the mayors that are involved. We had a meeting just before Christmas and one of the mayors had a meeting in Ottawa with the Minister of Transportation. Of course, they don’t give too much of an answer off the bat, but we’re hoping they can see the common-sense side of it.”

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Train travelling by Pysanka on Jan. 15. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

90 Years Ago – January 18, 1933

After some nine years occupation of the Clements Block at the corner of Main St. and First Ave. the Bon Ton Department Store will remove early in February to the store premises in the Prince Edward Block, formerly occupied by the Milner Trading Co. The price of admission to the Capitol Theatre here will now be 60 cents for two admissions for an indefinite period provided that one member of the couple purchases a little book of coupons being issued by Mr. Binder, local theatre impresario.

A.S. Shandro was appointed delegate to the Trustee’s Convention. At the expiration of George Ostashek’s three year term as trustee, Tom Hawreliak was elected over Wm. Zazula, 18 votes to 15. The board now consists of Moisey Ewanchuk, chairman, N.S. Shandro and Tom Hawreliak.

Nominations were received for the position of 2nd Vice-President of the Vegreville Chamber of Commerce, a new post to be filled by one of the rural members of the Chamber. The following were nominated and will be voted on at the next sitting of the Board: T. Balaam, H. Mayer, H.T. Payne, F. McCarty and J.H. Blackburn.

75 Years Ago – January 21, 1948

Allied officials have found that the congested condition of the Japanese islands – diminished in areas as a result of defeat – has reached an all-time peak. The latest population figure was put at 78,220,840. That is an increase of 5,851,698 since V-J Day.

William Gilbert in 1600 set the foundation for the discovery of radio when he conceived of the earth as a great magnet with magnetic poles and a field of force about it.

Sharks have only rods in the retinas of their eyes, whose visual efficiency is only a fraction of that of human eyes.

A method of shooting telephone wire over rivers, ravines and cliffs by the use of rockets has been developed by the signal corps, the army has reported.

J.M. Danyliuk, Andrew business man for several years, has sold his business and will move to Calgary with his family, where he has purchased a theatre. Mr. Danyliuk served as a member of the Andrew school board for a number of years and as a Councillor and mayor of the village.

The moon, at times, wanders slightly from its path. Although it does not stray more than about 20 miles from its predicted position, it is this variation which causes slight errors in time schedules of eclipses.

50 Years Ago – January 18, 1973

The Beaverhill District meeting of Scout leaders and counselors (Andrew, Two Hills and Vegreville) started 1973 off just right. The news of the year was this 52 acres of land have been donated for the use of Beaverhill District Scouts. Gerry Tymchyshyn, Tom Evans and Warner Roebuck of the Andrew group were instrumental in acquiring this gift from Mr. Laverne Garred of the Andrew district. Mr. Garred was at first reluctant to accept anything for the acreage however settled for a 10 year lease at $40.00 per year which are the taxes.

Terri Deines of Alberta Power’s public relations department introduced the latest in electrical devices called a Ground Fault Interrupter, and she says the little gadget completely eliminates the danger of electric shock. This unit replaces standard circuit breakers in a service panel. It is extremely sensitive to electric currents which flow through the human body when accidentally touching a faulty electrical appliance, and is will disconnect the power almost immediately.

25 Years Ago – January 20, 1998

The Vegreville Aquatic Centre is starting up a junior lifeguard club, described as an “alternative for those kids who love the water and who want more than lessons.” The club goes beyond traditional test-sheet-based aquatic programs. This club welcomes members between eight and 15 years of age.

A Event winners mixed play at the Elks zone playdowns and off to Provincials are Bob Bennett, Sandra Miller, Bryan Miller and Roxanne Bennett. A event winners in the Elks zone senior men’s play and off to provincials are Walter Chernishenko, Mike Warholik, Al Stafford and Ken Evans.

The Alberta Treasury Branch in Vegreville, represented by manager Bill Yizek, Jeanette Soldan and Fiona Sorochan presented $3000 to the winter games last week. On hand to accept the cheque were committee members Kevin Kisilevich, Darcy Sarafinchan and Ron Hnydyk.

Kal Tire re-opens at a new home in the Petro Canada building on Highway 16, staffed by David Stroshein, Dean Sturmay and manager Mike Trufyn. The three people will be available at Kal Tire to help with customer needs. Daphne Miller is the bookkeeper. Offering the tire service is a natural tie-in with the strong focus on farming needs stressed by Prairie Fuels. Owner Ken Baxandall, along with his partner, use the slogan of “pulling for the farming industry.

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.

More Needs to be Done to Contain Governor General’s Extravagance

In a rare show of unity, members of Parliament from all parties are angrily demanding answers about skyhigh expenses racked up by Governor General Mary Simon and her team.

Curiously, Rideau Hall’s rebuttal is essentially that the expenses are “not very extravagant.” [Emphasis added].

MPs haven’t bought that line since the moment the National Post broke the story about Simon and her entourage racking up nearly six figures on airplane food during a week-long trip to the Middle East.

Yet government bureaucrats remain committed to misleadingly downplaying the wasteful spending and offering half-measures rather than meaningful reforms.

Here are a few examples of how Simon and her bureaucrats misled Canadians:

Simon said the “meals are not very extravagant on these trips” and “they’re pretty much like airline meals.”

At a Parliamentary committee, Simon’s deputy secretary said the costs “were really shocking” because “we had eggs, we had omelettes.”

The bureaucrats tasked with trotting the vice-regal around the globe repeatedly told the committee that they could not provide the in-flight catering receipts.

Here’s the problem with their tale: the lost receipts were already found by the Canadian Taxpayers Federation. And the Post published the contents.

Yes, they had omelettes. But the omelettes came with “Boursin cheese, sliced chives and sundried tomatoes, side of grilled artisan pork sausages and sauteed button mushrooms.”

The flight menus included “beef Wellington with red jus” and “pan-fried chicken scallopini in creamy mushroom wine reduction sauce.” Buttery chicken tikka masala, apple and cranberry stuffed pork tenderloin, beef carpaccio and about $190 worth of “VIP sliced fruit” were also on the menus. That’s not exactly “like airline meals” that most Canadians are accustomed to.

But that’s too little, too late. MPs need to push for real change.

Here are real reforms that can make that happen: First, all receipts must be posted online, and Rideau Hall should be subject to transparency legislation. As the Post explained, “the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General is not subject to access-to-information requests.” That needs to change. Perhaps bureaucrats would think twice about splurging on beef Wellington if they knew taxpayers will inevitably see the bill.

Second, politicians should push for budget cuts. That’s how a serious government would deal with frivolous spending. If bureaucrats have so much money that they can blow nearly $100,000 on in-flight catering, then Rideau Hall doesn’t need $34 million from taxpayers every year.

But here’s what is happening now. Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland just released her mid-year budget update. It shows that in just seven months, the Trudeau government was already on track to spend $20 billion over budget. What incentive is there for a bureaucrat to pass up beef Wellington when they know their budget is only going up?

Third, MPs need to shine a light on all government travel.

“This visit was in line with similar costs for highlevel visits of this nature,” said Wheeler.

That’s an attempt to defend the misspending. But it’s an indictment of the major problem.

Someone in the Trudeau government billed taxpayers $6,000 per night for a single hotel room during the Queen’s funeral. The government could’ve saved money by booking the Four Seasons, the Langham, the Savoy or the Shangri La.

Canada sent 276 delegates to COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021. Canada sent more delegates than any other G7 country, including the host United Kingdom.

mittee, the bureaucrats promised reduce say

After being dragged back to committee, the bureaucrats promised to reduce future flight costs. They say they will reduce meal options, limit special requests and offer “minimal” snacks.

Contrary to popular opinion in the capital, taxpayers aren’t unlimited pools of cash. Canadians work very hard for the money they earn and the taxes they pay. Politicians must show respect for taxpayers by forcing bureaucrats to cut the extravagance.

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

Franco Terrazzano Canadian Taxpayers Federation

“Drink garnishes will be eliminated from service,” the government’s chief of protocol Stewart Wheeler told the committee. No drinks with a twist? Oh, the sacrifice.

Lyndie Nickel Wins Village of Ryley By-election

and a team that they can trust and rely on.”

She also gave a shout out to her opponent Joshua Lee for running for council. “I agree with the person who posted on Ryley Today earlier this week, that there are no losers in this by-election, just a first and second place. It’s great to see such a young candidate from Ryley showing interest in local politics.

I truly believe that the time is poor for you right now because you are so young and Ryley needs someone like me who is more experience at this time. I encourage you to run in the next general election in October 2025. We always need new blood and new ideas.

Nickel also wanted to recognize Returning Officer Jaye Parrent for running a smooth election and her team who have supported and encouraged her during her campaign. She added, “Let’s get rebuilding our Ryley, the Ryley that cares for each other, supports each other and has fun together. I’m looking forward to it.”

A total of 177 ballots were cast during the Jan. 13 by-election with candidate Lyndie Nickel receiving 166 votes and candidate Joshua Lee receiving 11 votes. Those are unofficial election results and Returning Officer Jaye Parrent said they will become official on Jan. 19.

Resident Bethany Bekolay commented after she voted, stating that she hoped Lyndie Nickel would win the by-election and begin to affect positive change in the community. “It was important to come out today because there’s been a lot of negativity surrounding our council and our mayor lately. The entire village, including myself has not been happy with the events that have unfolded lately, and there needs to be a positive change for our residents to feel like they can trust our council and our mayor again.”

Nickel commented following the by-election by stating, “I want to say first and foremost, thank you to all the residents of Ryley for supporting me with such overwhelming results. I hear your voice telling me that I have a lot of work to do, working with you to rebuild our community with council, building transparency, and building respect across Ryley, inside and outside the municipal office.

She also commented Councillor Brian Ducherer for “being transparent and showing such leadership this last week. I am looking forward to working with you and other councillors to build a strong team that our residents can be proud to work with

The County of Minburn No. 27 invites contractors to submit a quotation for the provision of Parks and Recreation Mowing Services.

The scope of work will include providing Mowing and Weed Eating Services at the following locations:

= Hamlet of Lavoy

= Wapasu Lake Campground

= Hamlet of Ranfurly

= Lavoy Sewer Lagoon Access Road

= Hamlet of Minburn

= Ranfurly Water Truck Fill Station

= Minburn Water Truck Fill Station

= Highway 16 County Gateway Signs

Request for Quotations closing date is February 10, 2023 at 2:00 pm

RFQ packages can be found on our website, picked up from the County of Minburn No. 27 Operations Office, or requested by email. For further information please contact:

Darwin Ullery Agriculture and Utilities Foreman dullery@minburncounty.ab.ca 4105 51 Avenue Vegreville, Alberta www.minburncounty.ab.ca

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Village of Ryley administration office where voting took place on Jan. 13.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Village of Andrew Appoints Tim Melnyk CAO

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

The Village of Andrew officially appointed Tim Melnyk Chief Administrative Officer during a special meeting on Jan. 3.

In the short span of time since he took over the day to day running of the municipality he’s had his hands plenty full with a variety of different items and emergent issues. One of the issues has been unauthorized access of the administration building by an unknown person or persons in recent months, and Melnyk said someone had attempted to enter the premise on Jan. 8 which he reported to RCMP.

Just prior to council’s Jan. 11 council meeting, Melnyk discovered several notes that had been posted in various locations in the village. Melnyk said he took a picture of one of the notes and sent it to members of council via cell phone just before the start of the meeting. The note was titled: Village of Andrew Residents. It read, “Attend council meetings and see what your council and CAO are doing to our Village! We need to get rid of them!”

As a result of the recent happenings, Melnyk told council he had the locks changed and now there were only a specific number of keys available to staff. He also noted that the authorization codes had also been changed. Additionally, council also passed a motion to have the Lorex Wireless Security System installed, authorizing spending up to $500 for this device.

Commenting on the situation, Mayor Merwin Haight stated, “One thing, it’s pretty simple. This is our little municipal office and our village office, but it is still government. Whether it is the provincial legislature building or the Parliament buildings in Ottawa, these are for access for people and the general public only during certain hours and there are restricted areas. Anyone accessing this, in my opinion, we are government. We’re just the grassroots level.”

Haight said anyone coming in during the hours they are closed that are breaking and entering the premises. “They’re trespassing if they are not authorized to be here and should be prosecuted and charged to the fullest extent of the law. No different than Edmonton and Ottawa.”

Haight went on to say that it shows a real lack of respect for government and our system, calling it “disrespectful and intolerable” and presents a safety issue because the office is attached to the school.

During an interview prior to council’s meeting, Melnyk was asked what some of the pressing issues and concerns are that he’s heard from residents since taking over the position. He said closure of the grocery store and future of the school are top of mind for residents who provided feedback to him.

From what he’s heard and through his personal observations, Melnyk said people in the community want change. “This community, they want to have change, and they’re looking forward to getting it done, but in my eyes they don’t want it quickly. They’re looking for more economy in town and community spirit.”

He added that residents are also looking for more social activities to do and wanting more businesses to set up shop in the community.

As to what he’s hoping to do in next six months to help residents and businesses? “First of all, we’ve got to get a lot of things straightened out in the office here. I can’t say too much, but it’s like walking down Main Street here, it’s a mess and we can only tackle one thing at a time. Still, with a brand new council and with the many CAO’s that have come and gone, it just didn’t get done.

First of all, council has to get their strategic plan, which is their priorities. They don’t have one right now, and all councils should have that done in their first few meetings. They need to put the strategic plan in place so they as a council can start working together to move forward and then they can branch out from there.

Legal Assistant and Receptionist FULL

I’ve already done my plan for them to get them organized. That’s what they did during the special meeting. So, they know where my goals are and they now can be more comfortable knowing which way I’m di rected.”

Vegreville Council Approves Land Lease for Fire Department

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Plans for the Vegreville Fire Department’s proposed training centre are moving along thanks to council’s recent approval to lease land adjacent to the existing emergency services building.

The land had already been earmarked, but the official agreement to lease .26 acres of 5100-60 Street, wasn’t signed-off on until council’s legislative committee meeting in December. The Vegreville Fire Department Club, (VFDC) the non-profit fundraising arm of the organization, will lease the land for $1 for 20 years with an option to renew at five-year intervals. The Town does retain the right to terminate the lease within 180 days if it so choses to end the contract.

VFDC President Jamieson Brown said it is a not-forprofit society that operates separately from the Town of Vegreville. It is comprised of mostly firefighters that fundraise and offer support to other community organizations.

“The main focus of the club over the last five years or so has been to raise funds for a training centre,” stated Brown, during a Dec. 6 presentation to council.

He added, “This facility would enhance our efforts, and I truly believe it would help with recruitment and retention. It would offer us another tool in our tool belt when it comes to making sure our firefighters are as prepared as they can be.”

VFDC has raised $140,000 for the training centre, and Brown said they are ready to start the construction process, but needed to have written control of the land before the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis, (AGLC) would allow them to spend the funds it had raised for the project.

Mayor Tim MacPhee told Brown following his presentation that, “We don’t need any more convincing one way or another, we’re all looking forward to this project to go forward.”

Councillor Jerrold Lemko said when he was Fire Chief a Legacy Fund had been established in 2000 and recommended those funds, approximately $13,000 be used for the project if VFDC would like to do that. MacPhee said that would be an option if VFDC would like to pursue it.

In response to council’s decision, Lt. Johnny Dyck stated, “We’re presently in conversations with a few companies and exploring design options.

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Collaborating to Develop a Localized Food System

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Creating a more localized food system is something that has been explored in recent months through a special initiative, one that is gaining interest and insights from a variety of different people and stakeholders through a series of workshops throughout the northeast region.

Connect for Food, (CFF) has received input and feedback from 135 individuals who participated in six workshops this past year in various locations, including: in the MD of Bonnyville, Town of Ardmore, Lac La Biche County, Smoky Lake County and Lamont County. One of the workshops was held virtually through Vermilion River County.

Based on the information that was received, CFF compiled a detailed summary that will be used as a blueprint of sorts to help develop other activities and events in 2023.

According to the summary report, “the workshops provided an excellent setting for both individual and collective discovery, critical thinking, and most importantly, a learning experience for participants which can help guide next steps and future events for localized food projects.

In general, discussions affirmed and validate that there is

indeed a need and purpose for the Connect for Food process, and the timing is right for engaging people, (stakeholders).”

Discussion during the workshops focused on describing our current food system and what needs to change our thinking and behaviours about food. Ten elements were identified as necessary for developing a sustainable localized food system. Those include: awareness and education, effective policy and regulation, innovation, accessibility and inclusivity, food safety, ecologically responsible and environmentally sustainable systems and practices, interconnected and collaborative approach, food security, contribution to rural economic development and support by all levels of government.

The report also indicated that the “Connect for Food approach can foster the development of a localized food system in this region and beyond, and we are stronger through connecting, collaborating and the sharing of ideas and shared vision.”

CFF is a process for leading communities and entire regions though projects called Grow What We Eat. Eat What We Grow, to develop a more localized food system. “The NAFMA project, has been a great example of how people are passionate about

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their food, interested in our food system and have a desire for it to be more localized”, says Keleigh Cormier and Perry Phillips, co-founders of Connect for Food. A series of workshops that began in April and ended in November 2022 were attended by a wide range of stakeholders of the food economy, or ‘Food Wheel’ as it is referred to through CFF.

Brooke MacLean of Northeast Alberta Food Marketers Association (NAFMA) says that the workshops really gave people an opportunity to talk constructively about the importance, possibilities, barri-

ers and solutions for a more sustainable, diverse and inclusive food system.

“The Connect For Food approach is very effective in engaging people and helping them to see that they can make a difference, whether they’re growers, processors, retailers or have another stake in the food economy.”

The project is partially funded through Community Futures (CF) throughout the NAFMA region. Kathy Dmytriw, from Elk Island CF says they are looking forward to a series of Showcase and Exchange events in April that will capitalize on the connections made through the workshops.

“Connect for Food is helping to organize and will facilitate three events that are focused on bringing together key stakeholders of the food industry and providing a setting where meaningful connections can be started, and lasting business relationships can be cultivated.”

Another outcome of these events will be the development of a regional directory to further connect members of the Food Wheel. “The work is not done, but a foundation is established,” says Phillips and Cormier, of CFF, and we continue to monitor progress and work with the champion of the project to ensure the seeds sown germinate and a more localized food system emerges and thrives.

Workshop at Gathering Place Co-op this past fall. (Connect For Food/Submitted Photo)

Alberta Premier and Lakeland MP Respond to Just

including oil and natural gas. We are working with the federal government closely on technology like carbon capture utilization and storage of hydrogen, critical minerals, but the good work gets lost when they use this kind of divisive, polarizing language. Because the world is looking for energy, for more energy, for more petrochemicals, for more LNG.

This is not an industry in decline, but it is one of the industries that’s strategic to the world energy security. And Alberta is one of the most responsible producers of energy in the world and has been for decades. We will continue to advocate on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of workers whose livelihoods depend on this industry. And we expect the federal government to stand up for our world leading oil and natural gas workers instead of trying to eliminate their jobs.

ally countries around the world. In Canada, the biggest private sector investors in clean tech and in renewable energy innovation are oil and gas, oil sands, and pipeline companies, so it makes no sense to deliberately put them out of work if the goal is to pursue greater use of alternative energies in the future.

The failures of this government’s coal transition plan, which did not actually include an implementation plan, any formal governance mechanisms, nor a system to track results, and didn’t involve national consultations with Canadians, left people and entire communities behind across the country. The NDPLiberals’ anti-energy and anti-business policies have already killed 300,000 oil and gas jobs since 2015, so Canadians are right to question this government’s intentions and ability to support workers it wants to phase out and has attacked for years.”

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Canada’s Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson has announced new legislation that will be coming this year to help transition oil and gas workers into green jobs.

Details of the plan have not yet been released, but Wilkinson stated during a CBC radio interview with As It Happens on Jan. 6 that he is not a big fan of the words “just transition. I actually prefer to talk about this as sustainable jobs.

Ultimately, what we are focused on is ensuring that we’re building an economy that’s going to create good jobs, well-paying jobs and economic opportunity in every province.

Certainly, we’re interested in Canada continuing to play a role as a provider of conventional energy products, but those need to be in the context of reducing emissions. And we want to work with Alberta on: How do we reduce emissions so that the products that we sell as we move through this transition are the lowest carbon products that exist anywhere on the planet?

That’s good for Alberta. That’s good for Canada. That’s good for the world.”

During a media briefing on Jan. 10, Premier Danielle Smith told reporters that Alberta’s economy is doing “incredibly well and its growing” with over 41,000 fulltime jobs being created in December and with 100,000 jobs currently open in the province.

Smith said, “There’s a network of industries and sectors as our province continues to diversify its economy. This is why I’m also concerned about Justin Trudeau’s Just Transition Plan as he calls it because when I hear the words Just Transition it signals eliminating jobs, and for Alberta that is a non-starter.

I think we all share the same goals when it comes to reducing emissions and that’s across all industries,

As to the real intention of the Just Transition Plan? Smith said the reason for the language being used is a social justice term and was used to phase out the coal industry. To use that terminology, added Smith, is “virtually signally to an extreme base that has been openly advocating to shut down oil and natural gas.”

She also pointed to the final communicate of COP 27 to shut down the oil and natural gas industry in the same way coal was phased out as well as Prime Minister Trudeau’s 2015 election promise to phase out the oil sands. She also highlighted some of previous projects, like Energy East and Teck Frontier Mine, which had been cancelled and the “missed opportunity” for LNG when the German Chancellor visited here.

Lakeland MP Shannon Stubbs weighed in on the matter by stating, “There is nothing “just” about the government’s plan to phase out oil and gas, and the hundreds of thousands of jobs that depend on the sector, particularly when there aren’t sufficient abundant, affordable, accessible sources to replace it, and especially while energy costs are sky rocketing. It’s particularly naive and reckless while Canada and the world are experiencing a major energy crisis.

The energy sector is the biggest private sector investor in the Canadian economy, and a leading export. It contributes billions in royalties and taxes to all three levels of government, and to charitable causes, annually. The reality is no sector is ready to replace that major employment, economic, and fiscal contribution of the oil and gas sector to Canada in the foreseeable future.

The government’s focus should actually be to remove burdensome red tape so the private sector can ramp up oil and gas development and construct approved pipelines and LNG export terminals to enhance Canadian energy security and export responsible Canadian energy to free and democratic

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith during media briefing Jan. 10.

(Government of Alberta/Submitted Photo)

Tributes

January

MEMORIAM OBITUARY OBITUARY

2020

It’s been the hardest thing to lose you. They say time heals But we miss you everyday still You have never been forgotten

And you never will We hold you close within our hearts And there you will remain To walk us through our lives

At least the memories we have of you They will fade.

Your smile, your laugh, your special way Will comfort us from day to day Until the day comes

We’re together again

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed, Marla, Darwin, Nathan, Makayla and Aliya Michael, Courtney, Avery and Owen, Christopher and Stephanie, Audrey.

MEMORIAM

January 20, 2022

He never looked for praises

He was never one to boast

He just went on quietly working For the ones he loves the most.

His dreams were seldom spoken

His wants were very few And most of the time his worries Went unspoken too.

He was there… A Firm Foundation

Through all our storms of life.

A sturdy hand to hold on to In times of stress and strife.

A true friend we could turn to When times were good or bad. One of our greatest blessings The man that we called DAD.

Always remembered and sadly

KLYMOCHKO

In

loving memory

Michael Klymochko 1914-1996

Pauline Klymochko 1916-1999

Alfred Klymochko 1937-2007

I thought of you with love today, but that is nothing new.

I thought about you yesterday and days before that too.

I think of you in silence, I often speak your name.

All I have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is my keepsake, with which I’ll never part.

God has you in his keeping. I have you in my heart. Love your children and their families.

Allen was born in Loon Lake, Saskatchewan to Robert Ford and Kathleen Foster (née Wakefield) on October 6, 1935. He struck out on his own at a very young age, demonstrating incredible ingenuity and resilience, never shying from hard work. He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy at age 17, which eventually took him to Victoria, BC where he married Margaret (née Gunn), his wife of 61 years and mother of their five children. Preferring the mild winters of the coastal climate, Margaret and Allen lived most of their life together on Vancouver Island, from Victoria to Parksville and many places in between, with Allen working varied jobs all over the province, from off-shore oil rigs to weather ships to pipelaying. After retirement, Margaret and Allen spent over ten years in Salmon Arm and Enderby, BC before moving to Alberta in April 2017 to be closer to family.

Allen is survived by his five children: Terry (Bob), Wanda (Darren), Sherry, Robert (Rebekah), and Glenn. He will be deeply missed by his children and their spouses, nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, brothers and sisters, his late-wife’s family, numerous nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

Allen was a kind and generous man, an avid gardener, an engaging storyteller, a mischievous prankster, and a huge nature lover. His passing has left a big hole in many lives, but we are comforted by the thought that he has been reunited with his wife, Margaret, and many beloved friends and family who preceded him in death. Allen touched the lives of many people and his spirit will live on through the life lessons and values he has instilled.

A memorial service for Margaret and Allen will be held this summer. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Wildlife Federation.

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

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

Lawrence passed away peacefully on January 6, 2023 at the age of 64. His death followed a ten-month struggle in hospital with health issues that surfaced after he lost his home in a fire.

Lawrence will be sadly missed by his sisters, Eileen Baril (Ray) and Marion Dorin; sister-in-law, Leanne Stuart; and 10 nephews and nieces: Renee, Allan, and Michael Baril (Melody); Marla (Aaron Johnson), Christopher, and Craig (Katalin Sari) Dorin; Jennifer (Hector DuVivier), Jacquie (Cory Koles), and James (Dorothy) Stuart; and Nick Sperberg. He also leaves behind 9 great-nephews and great-nieces.

He was predeceased by his parents, Nick and Nancy Stuart, brother David Stuart, sister Annette Sperberg, brothers-in-law Frank Sperberg and Malcolm Dorin, and nephew Grant Sperberg.

Lawrence was a certified welder and successfully worked in that field for many years until he was seriously injured while welding. Gradually, he found that he was not able to continue in this line of work. While welding, he farmed with his brother David and their father until their deaths. More recently, Lawrence rented his farmland out. Lawrence loved living on the farm and enjoyed gardening and cooking. In the later years of his father’s life, Lawrence was committed to assisting his father, who loved the farm, to spend as much time there as possible.

Lawrence also enjoyed the company of his friends who knew him as “Stewy”. He often spoke of looking forward to going fishing and travelling with them. To his younger family members (sister/cousins/nieces/nephews), Lawrence was known for how he would spoil them with treats/deals or by teasing them with his warm sense of humor. Lawrence had a love for animals, which was apparent from all of the cats and dogs that he rescued to the farm.

A Memorial Service/Celebration of Life will be announced for a date in the future. Donations can be made to Haying in the 30’s Cancer Support Society or the Vegreville Food Bank in Lawrence’s memory. To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

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

January 19th 2014

The beauty of a memory

Is that it’s always there, Like a penny in your pocket

You can take it anywhere.

And when your heart is heavy And your eyes are filled with tears, You can focus on a memory, And travel through the years.

Your heart can visit happy times

When laughter filled the air, And the memories of your loved one, Make you wish she was still there.

So, as you travel on in life, Take comfort as you go, In a lifetime of sweet memories, Of one who loved you so?

Lovingly remembered and forever missed by Wallace, Lynn and Dave, Mark and family, Janet and Paul and girls.

CASAVANT, Victor

September 8, 1953 - January 17, 2021

My “Pookabear” Miss You So Much and, Love You More! Thanks for Watching Over us! Love All your Family and Grands and Great Grands

December

On Wednesday, January 11, 2023, Terry Radzick of Mundare, Alberta passed away at the age of 72 years. Terry is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Gloria; son Clayton; sister Shirley Dometraschuk; mother-inlaw Emilie Lucyk; sister-in-law Darlene (Byron) Swabb; brother-in-law Dennis Flasha; along with numerous relatives and friends. Terry was predeceased by his son Sheldon and his parents Bill and Sophie Radzick. Friends and family will reminisce over the great memories they shared with Terry during their sporting events, camping, hunting and fishing trips. His confidences and zest for life brightened our days.

A Divine Liturgy of Christian Burial was held on Monday, January 16, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Sts. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Mundare, Alberta with the Basilian Fathers officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to “Alberta Lung Association.”

“Memory Eternal”

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

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

SAIK, Elisabeth (Betty) March 5, 1929 – January 7, 2023

On January 7, 2023, our family lost Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Saik (nee Kavich), known by all as Baba. She was someone we all felt would be around forever, and by all accounts, she was, going strong well into her 94th year.

Betty lived her entire life near and in Innisfree, Alberta - raising their 4 children on the farm with Mike, then retiring to their home at the top of the hill. That home became the centre of family gatherings, from summer suppers on the porch with vegetables from her garden to Christmases spent playing poker with Gido, while enjoying the endless feasts magically cranked out of her tiny kitchen. Everyone was always welcome to join, and no one left hungry, with the inevitable weighty bag of goodies handed to you on your way out. We will all remember her standing on the step giving you a big smile and wave as you left.

As big as her family was (one of 11 siblings), her circle of friends was just as large, keeping a busy social life of bingo or a coffee date.

Her four children hold years of memories with herGarry (Cathy), Marlene, James (Peggie) and David (Jenny), grandchildren Jeff, Jessica, Benjamin and Annie, and great grandchild Otto. Betty is predeceased by her husband Michael George Saik and is survived by siblings Janet Vervynck (Percy) and Mike Kavich (Elizabeth).

A celebration of life and interment will be held later this year, when family can gather. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Betty’s memory to the Canadian Red Cross (Ukrainian Humanitarian Crisis Appeal). To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD.

Vegreville, 780-603-5800

STUART, Lawrence Nick August 27, 1958 - January 6, 2023

FORD, Allen Robert Allen Robert Ford passed away peacefully on January 8, 2023 in Vegreville, Alberta at the age of eighty-seven with two of his daughters by his side. He spent the previous day full of smiles, enjoying the company of loving family.

RADZICK, Terry

23, 1950 – January 11, 2023

G. Russell Dobush

missed Wife Jeannette, son Wayne (Nikki), son Brian (Roberta) Daughter Shauna (Brian) Grandchildren Renee, Corbin, Nichole, Matthew, Brynn and Paulchen.

Florence Giebelhaus

MACKNEY, Mark

7, 1956 - January 20,

WOROBEC, Stella

June 24, 1930 – January 10, 2023

ON January 10, 2023, Stella Worobec of Vegreville, Alberta, formerly of Derwent passed away at the age of 92 years.

Stella is survived by her loving family, children Lyle (Barb), Caren (Karl), Lydia and Duane; 5 grandchildren Andrea (Mike), Lisa (Eduardo), Stephen (Joana), Mark (Randal) and David (Katelyn); 4 great-grandchildren; one sister Shirley (Albert) Tomusiak; along with numerous relatives and friends. Stella was predeceased by her husband Walter; son Daryll; parents John and Nellie Hnatkowski; brother Jack.

Cremation has taken place and a private graveside service will be held at a later date in the Farmers Independent Cemetery – Derwent. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to “Haying in the 30’s Cancer Support Society.”

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com AUTUMN

MISSING YOU ALWAYS, REMEMBERING YOU FOREVER

Nellie (Natalka) Mae Wasyleski (nee Wynnychuk), age 101, of Vegreville, Alberta entered her eternal rest on January 16, 2023.

Born on the family farm near Raith (Royal Park) Alberta on March 26, 1921, Nellie had a close and loving bond with her mother, Helen, and eight siblings. She married Andy Wasyleski in 1940, after completing a year of nursing training at the St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville, where she soon realized that nursing was not her calling.

Nellie was very dedicated to the Vegreville community, and for many decades was an active member of the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church and Ladies League, of which she was Treasurer for three years. She also enjoyed doing Pastoral Care at St. Joseph’s Hospital, which she did into her 80’s.

Always ready and willing to travel and come to the aid of her children and grandchildren, Nellie often drove, flew or took the bus to lend a hand whenever

she was needed. She loved to travel and visit new countries and places, and was fortunate enough to have joined several church-organized trips, including a very special one to Medjugorie, Portugal. Her lifelong passions were doing crossword puzzles and reading, and she was a frequent visitor and supporter of the Vegreville Public Library, where it became difficult to find a book she’d never read! She also enjoyed knitting and crochet work, and loved to tend her garden and reap the benefits of fresh vegetables. Many traditional twelve-dish Ukrainian Christmas Eve dinners were enjoyed at her table.

Predeceased by her husband (Andy), grandson (Michael Strothard), son-in-law (Leo Goshko), and great-granddaughter (Christine Goshko), Nellie leaves to mourn her three children Wayne Wasyleski (Maxine) of Nanaimo, Patricia Goshko of Edmonton, and Joan Mettauer (Heinz) of Medicine Hat. Also left to mourn are her sister Elsie Golinowski of Edmonton, her grandchildren Trevor, Chris, Kimberly, David, Brenda and Gail, along with great-grandchildren Xavier, Vince, Vera, and Lincoln.

A private funeral service will be held at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Vegreville, Alberta with the Basilian Fathers officiating, followed by interment in Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Aid to Ukraine payable to the Ed Stelmach Community Foundation - P.O. Box 70, 4902-50 St.,Vegreville, AB.,T9C 1R1

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

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

Thank you

Staff at the Two Hills Health centre for caring for Mike. Rick Wowk, Monica Yaremchuk, Carole Myshaniuk and Gary Zuk for singing at the service.

Allan Zaparniuk, his team and wagon, for taking Mike on his last ride.

Special thanks to Gordon and Patty of Autumn Rose for their compassion, guidance and services provided.

Also special thanks to the grandchildren and great grandchildren for making Geidos last wishes carried out.

Vichnya Pamyet May his memory be eternal Delores Wowk and Family.

Cecilia Charchuk

We the family of late Cecilia Charchuk would like to express our gratitude to all our relatives and friends who attended her prayer service and funeral and for the cards and flowers. We would like to thank reverend Father Slawomir Lomaszkiewicz for the services, Cantor Terry Baydala and the elder Victor Sorochan. The Ladies Auxiliary who did coffee and donuts and the wonderful lunch. Thanks to Park Memorial Vegreville. We would also like to thank all the Pallbearers and doctors and nurses at the Royal Alexandra Hospital who took care of her while she was still with us.

The Charchuk Family.

The family of the late Mike Wowk wish to express Our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the following people. Family, friends and neighbours who supported us at this difficult time and who attended the funeral. To those who generously sent cards, brought baking, desserts, meat trays, flowers, called and visited. Barb Boschman and Cayley Bailey for their comforting words and memorial service. To the Doctors and

St. Nikolai Visits A. L. Horton School

Magnificent Moon Halo

Saint Nikolai visited Kindergarten to Grade 6 Ukrainian Language & Culture Program students in the library learning commons at A.L. Horton Elementary School on Dec. 19. He brought a small gift and spoke with each child. Students sang him Ukrainian Christmas songs while in traditional dress. (Keri Busensius/Submitted Photo)

The night of Jan. 5 provided the ideal opportunity to view the moon halo. Wikipedia describes it as an atmospheric optical phenomenon that consists a halo with an apparent radius of approximately 22 around the sun or moon. When visible around the moon, it is also known as a moon ring, storm ring or winter halo. It forms as sunlight or moonlight is refracted by millions of hexagonal ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere. (Rachel Farr/Submitted Photo)

Crews Repair Broken Water Valve

For MacPhee, the proposal would be a win-win as it would improve on time performance and increase ridership for VIA Rail, which is a crown corporation. “It all makes sense to have them run on time. There are 80 trains a day on the track they run on, and here the most trains we see run on six to eight a day on this line.

Every time there’s a freight train VIA Rail has to pull over and they get out of whack time wise. In my mind it makes sense coming to Vegreville. Just the exposure of having VIA Rail coming by the Egg, (Pysanka) a couple times a week would be great.” He noted that the train station is a heritage site and would also be a great stopping point for tourists.

“The main line only stops in Wainwright before carrying on to Saskatoon and Winnipeg.” He said there are many Indigenous communities that do not have access to bus service let alone rail service, and there would be many people from those places who would also benefit from the proposed route whether they are travelling for medical appointments or simply visiting other centres for pleasure.

“Right now Indigenous tourism is gaining a lot of strength around the world. People want to see what’s going on in these Indigenous communities in northern Alberta and northern Saskatchewan, so we’re

playing that up. Plus, the ridership would go way up by locals accessing VIA Rail to get to the next city. They, (travellers) could plan a holiday around Indigenous communities and events.”

To that end, MacPhee will be reaching out to Metis Crossing, which is located near Smoky Lake, to see if they would support the proposal. He suggested that Metis Crossing could probably run a shuttle out of Vegreville every couple of days to their Interpretive Centre and Lodge. MacPhee will also be approaching Elk Island National Park and the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village to see if they would be interested in supporting the initiative.

Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers said there are many benefits of the proposal, and “from the information that we were able to glean there’s 150,000 people that would be able to access the VIA Rail train from Yorkton to Fort Saskatchewan that are not able to access as easily on the CN main line. And a good number of those people are Indigenous people.”

Aalbers said they are constantly looking at economic diversification and development, and tourism is an area they can build on. “I think that if you can bring the people, you’ll develop the opportunities.”

The proposal has been circulated to several municipalities and various associations as well as

“I

Western

Diversification Canada, Minister of Tourism Randy Boissonnault and Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra.

think that all individuals involved would say it’s very worthy, but at the same token, we don’t expect an instant decision from the federal government.” Aalbers said they have built a very good business case with supporting documentation and will continue to lobby and advocate for the proposal.

RAIL - CONTINUED from PAGE 5

Railway crossing just east of Vegreville train station.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Crews with Cam-Trac Asset Management repaired a broken water valve at the intersection to the truck fill station on 50th Avenue in the Village of Chipman. The leak was discovered on Dec. 28 and repairs and road restoration was completed on Dec. 31. Total cost of repairs and restoration has not yet been made available.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Peter Skoreyko Receives Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pin

Pinon News Advertiser

Peter Skoreyko has been a fixture with the Vegreville Jr. B Rangers hockey team for over three decades.

On Jan. 8 the long-time equipment manager received a special honour before the start of the team’s prospect game. The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pin was presented by Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee on behalf of Lakeland MP Shannon Stubbs.

Stubbs said, “The Queen’s Jubilee Pin was given out in 2022, but we made a decision to wait to present until this opportunity at the Jr B prospects game. I loved reviewing stories of Peters’ many volunteer efforts and his extreme love for hockey, and of course, about his amazing sense of humour.

It felt right that someone with this much passion and love for the sport should receive recognition of their volunteerism

example of how to make a community a better, place, his enthusiasm and sense of humour and love of community. Has made Vegreville a better place to live.

Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee said, “There’s no greater gift somebody can

their community than the gift of volunteering their time. Peter is a great

I don’t think MP Shannon Stubbs could’ve made a better choice to receive the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee pin for all of his efforts over a long period of time. I want to thank Peter on behalf of our community for all he’s contributed to the Town of Vegreville, and I’m very proud to call him my friend.”

Vegreville Rangers President Joe Budinski said, “Peter has been part of the Ranger family as our equipment manager for over 30 years.

Whether it’s in fulfilling his game duties or encouraging the players, Peter is an integral part of our organization and we are very happy to have him back with us after our two year hiatus.

There is no one more deserving of this award, as there hasn’t been any player who has come through Vegreville minor hockey who doesn’t know who Peter is. The Rangers couldn’t been more proud of Peter for all that he does and has done.”

Peter’s favourite saying when the players are getting off the bus on road games is, “Saddle up boys.” It’s as endearing as the man himself who has become an important part in the fabric of the community.

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

Michelle

From L-R: Josh Micklich, Peter Skoreyko, Tim MacPhee and Rylan Labrie. (Vegreville Rangers/Submitted Photo)