Striking Fireworks Display on Canada
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Honouring Men and Women Who Served
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Canadian flags blew gently beside the headstones of local veterans when Royal Canadian Branch No. 39 presented a tranquil Decoration Day Service at Riverside Cemetery in Vegreville on June 23.
President Terry Kuzyk said, “The observance of Remembrance Day is a long-standing tradition not only here in Canada but around the world. Remembering and honouring our war dead is as much a requirement as celebrating Canada Day. Naturally, without those sacrifices, we would have a significantly different country.
But, for every war dead we honour, there are 15 or more servicemen and women who stood shoulder to shoulder with them and survived to come home. Also, since our military was first created just after confederation, we have had personnel serving in uniform across Canada and around the world in what is often mistakenly referred to as peacetime. Not surprisingly, most did not come home unchanged. And that is something I
want to address today.
The immediate shock of hearing of a loved one’s ultimate sacrifice is a devastating blow to any individual or family. But the family members of veterans that are here today know the reality of spending a lifetime adjusting to the changed person that has come home at the end of a war, or after a service career.
This ceremony is as much for the spouses, children and grandchildren of the veterans who survived their service as those who served. Everyone’s life changed through a set of circumstances that they had no control over.
Many of our veterans buried here today were successful. They farmed, they ran businesses, and they taught and contributed to the community in many other ways. But there was no hiding that they were a group apart. A very special group that has guided the direction of our community, in fact our country, over the last 150 plus years.
Rest in peace, Comrades, you have earned your rest and you will not be forgotten.”
Local dignitaries also presented greetings which echoed these sentiments.
So, let’s use today to remember the positive, celebrate the good and take the time to appreciate the service of our family members and friends who offered their all to give us the country we have today.
Families Honour Courage and Sacrifice of Loved Ones
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
It was a warm and sunny summer’s day with the mercury soaring to 26 degrees Celsius. Fortunately, there was a breeze as a handful of attendees gathered at the Lavoy Cemetery for the annual Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 39 Decoration Day ceremony on June 22.
returned home aboard the HMT Queen Elizabeth and had Christmas dinner on board the ship.
While Randy and Mike were told a few stories of wartime, “Like most soldiers, he rarely spoke about his time overseas. That conversation was reserved for time spent with other soldiers.”
Legion Secretary Rea Radcliffe gazed upon the blue sky dotted with fluffy cumulus clouds thinking about her son Damian, who would always tell her when he was away on duty that all he dreamed of were sunny days in Alberta.
Damian, is a military veteran as was his grandfather Joseph (John) who served in the Australian Infantry Force. Rea said it was an emotional day as she thought of them. The same went for Randy Footz who attended the ceremony with his wife Jeanette and daughter Renee as well as his brother Gerry Footz. They were thinking of Mike Footz who served with the Second Canadian Corps of the Royal Canadian Artillery.
Mike married Madeleine on June 7, 1946. They resided five miles northeast of Lavoy where they raised Randy, Gerry and Susan. Mike farmed with his brother Bill. Randy and Gerry describe their father as innovative as he could build anything from scratch. Apart from being a great handyman, they say their dad had a great sense of humour and a special love of bagpipes.
Randy and Jeanette have travelled to several European cities and countries, visiting war memorials and cemeteries over the years honouring the service and sacrifice of Canadian soldiers who did not return home.
Mike, one of 7 siblings, was born on Nov. 18, 1919. He grew up near Spedden, Alberta and attended Garner Lake School. He received his basic training in Camrose in 1941 and advanced artillery training in Vancouver in 1943.
He landed at Normandy on July 26, 1944 and spent time in Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam. Randy recounted the story his dad told of being part of a convoy in the Netherlands and the soldiers coming across a place with ice cream and them trying to carry as much of it as they could, hooting and hollering in excitement.
Randy said his dad spoke about the Battles of Nijmegen and Arnhem in the Netherlands in September of 1944. Mike
in Coyote Country
President Terry Kuzyk at the podium. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Mike Footz in uniform.
(Footz Family/Submitted Photo)
Photo of Mike Footz taken in Paris in June of 1945. (Footz Family/Submitted Photo)
Myrnam Firefighters Thankful for Community Support
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Members of the Myrnam & District Firefighter Association hosted an Appreciation Event to thank local residents who supported its Side-by-Side project the evening of June 20 at the fire hall.
The fundraising project for a side-byside wildland unit and cube truck to transport equipment was a labour of love for members. Jessie Fedoriuk, who coordinated the project with Terry Axley, said he was happy it had come to fruition. Both firefighters said they were very grateful for the community’s involvement in the project, pointing out that both residents who live in town and those in the surrounding area generously donated to the project. Helping push the project towards the finishing line was approval of The Community Initiatives Program (CIP) grant supplied through the Government of Alberta. They officially received approval of the CIP grant in the amount of $39,000 on August 18, 2023. Altogether, the total project cost was $85,000.
“We started looking into the project in October 2021,” noted Fedoriuk. The sideby-side unit, explained Axley, “is a very versatile piece of equipment” that can traverse rugged terrain, navigate through dense bush, access remote trails and handle steep inclines.
Equipped with an 80-gallon water tank Myrnam Fire - CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
From L-R: Terry Axley, Jessie Fedoriuk, donors Megan and Addam Saruk, and John Fedoriuk. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
A Tale of Two Canada Days
Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser – Opinion
Hopefully everyone that was able to, had a good day off for Canada Day. I, like my colleagues and many others did have to work on this holiday but there was time to enjoy the spirit, the ample red and white with maple leaves and later some fireworks.
Something that caught my attention were the messages sent out by politicians for Canada Day. Alone, each had their merits and the two I’m going to talk about were obviously well intentioned.
However, as is the nature of an opinion piece I need to point out a few things, draw contrasts, and give my opinion.
Both Prime Minister (and Liberal leader) Justin Trudeau and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, spoke about Canada in their own way. That alone will endear some and annoy others regardless of which end of the political spectrum you are on.
Trudeau’s message included one main image… himself; which should come to the surprise of absolutely no one. He was the main focus of his own message along with a blurry green screen image worthy of a work from home video chat. Poilievre’s message in stark contrast had several clips with his images and then an extended portion of him speaking in front of two Canadian flags. The majority of the video included images related to the array of topics his speech touched on.
For me, perhaps the strangest part of Trudeau’s speech was when he stated, “our rights and freedoms are not guaranteed; they are safeguarded every day by trailblazers, journalists, activists, organizers; people who want to keep building a country where we can disagree, sometimes passionately…” So, let’s stop there. I actually thought our rights and freedoms WERE guaranteed. I’m wondering now if he’s thinking about the Canada he WANTS to create.
He seems to forget the freezing of bank accounts of people who were not even a part of the convoy. They were simply supporting an idea (not even being an activist) yet the government came down hard on them. Journalists? Well, many try, but it is hard to get an answer, particularly when it comes to any of the many scandals.
In stark contrast, Poilievre touted a Canada where we are “free to speak without fear.” He spoke of “a warrior nation that helped defend freedom, and helped defeat ugly socialist ideologies, like socialism, Nazism and communism.” Clearly, he was hinting at something here. I’ll let you guess what that might have been. Part of the video was dedicated to Canada’s great accomplishments and another part to the challenges Canadians face. Clearly, Pierre Poilievre was in “politicking” mode, but what politician isn’t? Take out the words Canada and day, and they both could be campaign speeches.
As for me, and many others, this Canada Day weekend, there were parades, BBQs, markets, bouncy castles, food trucks, fireworks and lots of Canadian flags. All of us at the News Advertiser hope you had a wonderful Canada Day.
P.S. If you have a worn or tattered Canadian flag on display. It’s past time you change it out and put your old one to rest in an appropriate fashion.
Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com
WIEBE INSURANCE
Fraud Prevention
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
An information session on fraud prevention was hosted by Alberta Treasury Branch (ATB) Financial at the Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville on June 18.
ATB Financial Fraud and Risk Department Specialists Nicole Christofilakis and Gillessa Savard stated that education and awareness are the best defense against fraud and scams. “When it comes to fraud prevention the best thing you can do is take steps to protect your information. Never share your personal information like your date of birth, name, and especially your social insurance number (SIN) when answering an unknown call, or text, or when doing shopping online. We recommend to never save your credit card or payment information on a retailer’s website and to enter each time you make a purchase. Make sure that you have set secure user names and passwords for your account. Don’t reuse user names and passwords across several accounts.”
They spoke about call spoofing where scammers fake their caller ID names and numbers to appear to be calling from a
real place. The best thing to do in a situation like this is to call back the number to verify that the phone call is legitimate.
Two-Factor Authentication makes your online banking safer but this only works if you keep the code to yourself. Your bank will never ask you to share the code via text or phone. If someone does, it is probably a scam.
Things to look out for are text or emails including a link for you to click and ones that contain a lot of spelling and/or grammatical errors, ask for your personal information, your (SIN) and/or financial information. They might also tell you, you need to pay them to get a job, receive a prize, or get your money back.
If you are a victim of fraud, call or
come into your closest location of the financial institution you are with and once you let the bank know, it is a good idea to call the local RCMP/Police Department to report fraud as well as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Branch Manager for ATB Financial in Vegreville Angie Halvorson-Vandale speaking with attendees. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
90 Years Ago – July 4, 1934
Out of turmoil now existing in provincial affairs, one clear opinion is held by all sensible men: namely, that just as soon as the incoming premier, whoever he may be, has brought about a comparative degree of order in government business, a provincial general election should be held and the people of Alberta relieved of the doubts, fears, and difficulties created by a government which is now in its death throes.
The standard schoolhouse one mile southeast of Dodds or seven miles south of Ryley, burned to the ground on Friday night. The school picnic was held on the grounds during the day. Some insurance was carried and it is expected that the school will be rebuilt during the holidays. The cause of the fire is unknown.
A contingent of forty-eight officers and men left Vegreville on Saturday under the command of Major F.J.W. Fane for the annual ten-day training at Sarcee Camp west of Calgary.
Mr. Strong and Mr. Miller of the high school staff are on the corps of examiners in Edmonton, reading papers from the departmental exams.
75 Years Ago – July 6, 1949
Among the buildings receiving a face-lifting is that of the Standard Hardware, which is getting a complete work-over under the skillful paintbrush of Stu Ferguson.
Members of the Reserve Force left for Wainwright on Sunday morning, where they will undergo two weeks of summer training. Also gone to camp are the members of the Cadet Corps who went to Vernon, B.C.
Jack Klein is having his store re-modeled throughout under the supervision of Eddie Lemiski.
Mr. Louis Vinsky wishes to announce to the people of the Vegreville district, that he intends to open a General Store in the Prince Edward Hotel Building. The new store will be in the location formerly occupied by Muzyka and Tunis. A new a varied stock which will enable Mr. Vinsky and his assistants to give up-to-date service in each and every department.
The 20,000-ton liner Empress of Canada docked recently from Liverpool, carrying 675 passengers. One passenger was Mrs. Joyce Mack of Wareham, Dorset, bound for Calgary where she hopes to pursue the career of a female cowpuncher.
50 Years Ago – July 4, 1974
The Vegreville Chatelaine Softball Club proved to be a superior team by capturing top prize money in the Yellowknife Invitational Fastball Tournament over the long weekend. At $5,000 prize money it is billed as the “richest” tournament in Canada.
Persons from far and near crowded the Vegreville Fair Grounds Sunday for the last day of the first Ukrainian Festival. Many had attended church services and later gathered at the Civic complex to participate in the declaration of Ukrainian Day by Mayor Virgil Moshansky. Following the declaration Mr. Moshansky raised the flag of Ukraine.
Roman Repski, Manager of Twin Towers Realty, Vegreville, is pleased to announce that Clarence P. Miskiw recently joined the firm in the capacity of Sales Associate. Mr. Miskiw recently received qualifications for a real estate license and will be located in the offices in the Professional Building, Vegreville.
Grants for tourism projects allocated to communities in NorthEastern Alberta totaling $5,000 have been announced by the Lakeland Tourist Association. The grant monies will go to assist eight communities in the Lakeland Zone towards such projects as local brochures and maintenance of the Tourist Information Centre. This has been the largest number of grants administered by the Lakeland Tourist Association in recent years and reflects the activity of the association.
25 Years Ago – July 6, 1999
Partnership with the community is the key to successful policing says new Vegreville detachment commander, Sgt. Mike Proctor, who commenced duty on July 2. Proctor moved from Watson Lake, Yukon, following a three-year stint. It was like coming home for Proctor who spent a period in Mannville and Vermilion.
A noticeable increase has taken place in the population of Mundare. A census completed recently by the town shows the community has 653 people. That’s up from the last census, five years ago, which counted 578 residents.
A small quantity of liquor was grabbed by someone who smashed the window of the Alberta Hotel at about 3:15 a.m.
A single vehicle roll-over crash just west of the Highway 36 intersection on Highway 16 early Monday morning sent two Quebec residents to hospital with non-life threating injuries.
President Ron Corry presented life memberships in the Vegreville Cultural Association to three founding members, Kay McKenzie, Elsie Kawulych, and John Huzil.
Kaleigh Klammer won a showmanship award and performed her recitation during Sunday’s final grandstand performance at the 26th annual Ukrainian Pysanka Folk Festival.
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.
Capital Gains Tax Undermines the Backbone of the Canadian Economy
Sylvain Charlebois Dalhousie University
It’s hard to recall a time when capital gains taxes have drawn so much attention.
Historically, changes to capital gains taxation have largely flown under the radar. However, the latest modifications are different.
Starting June 25, 2024, capital gains up to $250,000 will continue to be taxed at the standard 50 percent inclusion rate. Gains exceeding C$250,000, however, will be taxed at a new inclusion rate of 66.67 percent for individuals. Furthermore, the 2024 federal budget introduces two other notable changes: all capital gains generated through a corporation will be subject to the 66.67 percent inclusion rate, and the lifetime capital gains exemption for eligible property will increase from $1,016,836 to $1,250,000.
These changes raise significant concerns for family businesses, particularly in the agri-food sector, where most farms are family-run operations. The Grain Growers of Canada, representing over 65,000 familyowned farms, recently released a report contradicting Ottawa’s claim that only 0.13 percent of Canadians, or fewer than 60,000 people, will be affected. The report suggests a much broader impact.
According to Statistics Canada, Canada has nearly 190,000 farms, most of which are family businesses. The Grain Growers of Canada report indicates that the average farm will see a 30 percent tax increase due to the new two-thirds capital gains inclusion rate.
Generational succession planning is a cornerstone in agri-food, particularly farming. Currently, less than 1.7 percent of Canadians are involved in farming, a percentage likely to decrease over time. Canada is losing between 700 to 1,000 farms annually. By making farming less financially attractive, the number of farms will continue to dwindle, leading to greater consolidation and fewer family-owned farms.
Farmers are known for their ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit; many have accumulated significant assets. However, farmers are often “asset rich, cash poor,” meaning they possess valuable assets such as farmland, quotas, equipment, and livestock but lack liquid cash. This becomes especially challenging with changes to capital gains taxes.
If a farmer sells a portion of their land or valuable equipment, they might realize a substantial capital
gain. The Grain Growers of Canada report highlights that this financial strain can force farmers into difficult financial positions, requiring them to find ways to generate the necessary funds to meet fiscal obligations.
Moreover, many farmers plan to pass their farms on to the next generation. Increased capital gains taxes could complicate estate planning and succession. The tax burden on asset transfers may be higher, leading to more family farms being sold off or broken up to pay taxes, potentially reducing the number of familyowned farms and altering the landscape of rural communities.
The impact extends beyond farming. Many familyowned businesses exist in Canada’s food manufacturing, retail, and food service industries. According to IBISWorld, Canada has nearly 80,000 full-service restaurants, many of which are family-owned. These businesses could be significantly affected by the increased capital gains tax.
Behind every family business are hardworking, taxpaying Canadians who will likely be affected by these changes.
While there are exclusions and fiscal measures to assist with asset transfers and generational succession planning, the tax increase disincentivizes investment. If we aspire to grow our economy and increase competition across the agri-food sector, raising taxes to ensure “the wealthy face the same tax burden as nurses” is not the solution. A more effective approach might be to reduce the tax burden for nurses instead.
More broadly, Family Enterprise Canada states that family-owned businesses make up 63.1 percent of all private sector firms in the Canadian economy, contributing 48.9 percent to Canada’s real GDP in the private sector, amounting to $574.6 billion. Additionally, they employ 6.9 million people nationwide, representing 46.9 percent of private sector employment.
The changes to the capital gains tax will likely affect much more than just 0.13 percent of Canadians. Ottawa must reconsider its approach to avoid undermining the backbone of our food economy: familyowned agri-food businesses.
Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agri-food analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University.
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from the pages of the vegreville observer
Compiled by dan beaudette
John F. Kennedy
Unreserved Retirement Auction for Joe Gluckie
Planning a Auction?
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
On June 7, Vegreville Food Bank (VFB) was presented with a cheque of $210. These funds were generated from the Vegreville and District Chamber of Commerce (VDCC) Fourth Annual Golf Mixer on June 6 at Vegreville Kinsmen Golf Course.
VDCC General Manager Roxane Tannas said, “MCSnet sponsored a putting game. The 21 golfers who participated paid to play the game and all the money raised at the putting game went to the (VFB).
Game for Charity
With our mixer every year we have a little extra time so the committee picked a game to play before supper.”
VFB Co-Chair Jocelyn Mouyious stated, “We are humbled by the overwhelming support of our community, our business leaders, and our organizations.
It is still in the early stages, but the (VFB) has a dream of owning our own facility and partnering with other nonprofits to build a non-profit city in Vegreville. It will be a place where several non-profits are under one roof. By
working together, we can better meet the needs of people in our community. Instead of having to go to many locations, community members will just need to go to one location where non-profits share resources, expertise, and knowledge. Our work is just beginning on this dream, and we know we have a lot of work to do yet; like organizing, planning, and building those partnerships, but right now we are taking one step at a time.”
Roxane Tannas presents cheque to Jocelyn Mouyious. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Check Out an Eye-Opening Cultural Event
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Vegreville’s 51st Annual Pysanka Festival will be exciting, interesting and educational!
Vegreville Cultural Association
President Curtis Zorniak explained that they host this festival for six reasons:
• To foster understanding among all people and to enrich the Canadian Mosaic by promoting the arts and culture of the Ukrainian people, of people of other national, racial, or ethnic origins, and of people of other cultures, who settled in Canada.
• To promote and afford opportunity for cultural and social activities.
• To encourage and foster and develop among all people the recognition of the importance of culture to people.
• To enrich the culture of various peoples in Alberta.
• To foster understanding among all people of the culture of people in Alberta of various national, racial, or ethnic origins.
• To provide a meeting place for the consideration and discussion of questions affecting the cultural interests of the community.
This year, the festival’s theme looks at the Styles of Ukrainian Visual Arts. Over the years, the Ukrainian Visual Arts and Artists have been an important part of the Vegreville Pysanka Festival and the Ukrainian community of Alberta and Canada. It is an opportunity for all Canadians of Ukrainian descent and Ukrainians to proudly portray their artistic history, and traditions, and have a place where younger generations can learn more about their rich culture and ancestors through the different styles of Ukrainian visual arts. These roots and traditions have many symbolic meanings that have a long history and vary by the various regions of Ukraine. So please take the time and opportunity to learn some of the styles of Ukrainian visual arts highlighted at this year’s festival.
Some new attractions and features are always the four Grandstand Shows, and they will all have different groups and
performers. Come and see who this year’s Hospodar and Hospodynia are. The artist showcase will have a new and interactive experience where you can come and see some beautiful, amazing art. There are many new workshops this year. The Folk Arts has many new displays of regional art and textiles, pioneer homesteads, melodies of the past, folk arts competitions, craft workshops, and demonstrations. They cater to all ages, cultures and tastes. “The festival is suited for all ages, cultures, and tastes as we have a craft corner, Yarmarok, Grandstand shows, Petting Zoo, Farmers’ Market, Folk Arts, Cossack Camp, Competitions, Pioneer Village, and many activities that both young and old can take part in, children can enjoy activities with their parents, Baba, and Gido.
To describe the festival to someone who is attending for the first time and to get a complete experience is to take it all in and see everything that has become an annual attraction and has become the most innovative and appropriate way to exhibit and preserve some of the finest aspects of our
OPENING CEREMONIES
•
•
• ending at
Park at 3:45 PM with a mini-concert
cultural heritage. This festival provides one of the best opportunities for the young generation to learn about their rich culture and for the people in general, to share in each other’s ethnic values through music, song, and dance.”
Zorniak credits volunteers for keeping this event going strong after 51 years. “It is the countless hours of volunteers helping and our executive, directors, and volunteers helping and participating in any event. Volunteering gives all ages a sense of appreciation for their Ukrainian heritage. We are looking for new blood and ideas to keep us strong and vibrant for many years!
What I look forward to most from the festival is friends and family coming together and making new friends through experiencing all the many wonderful events and activities at the Pysanka Festival. Experiencing the whole Pysanka Festival experience is what I am looking forward to. You must take it all in to get the real Ukrainian Pysanka Festival experience.”
FRIDAY 2:00
FRIDAY 12:00 PM FREE ADMISSION into grounds & all venues except grandstand shows & zabavas MULTIPL EX CENTRE FREE ADMISSION
OPENS
GRANDSTAND SHOWS
CULTURAL SHOWCASE
ZABAVAS
FOOD VENDORS
Canada Day in Coyote Country
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
An estimated crowd well over 200 took part in celebrations on July 1 in the Village of Chipman. There were plenty of family friendly activities throughout the afternoon and evening with a spectacular fireworks show to cap off the festivities.
The event, organized by residents Rob and Cindy Lindemann, kickedoff with a parade, followed by a variety of activities at the agricultural grounds. Everything from archery, bingo, fun foam to frolic in, face painting, bouncing around in inflatables and Zorb balls were available for attendees to enjoy.
Cindy said they were “super
pleased” with how everything went.
“You never know what’s going to happen. When I realized how many people were actually there I figured for sure we would not have enough food. Sandwiches were eagerly taken. Only two left so they went well with cookies and watermelon. Salads and hot dogs managed to hold until everyone was feed.”
The fireworks went over well, and Rob added a few new ones to keep things interesting. The show went on for about 20 minutes and the crowd applauded in appreciation.
“All in all it was a great day. Next year will be hard to top, but hopefully, we’ll come up with something.”
Starts Aug 2nd to Closes Aug 5th to 7th, 2024
Location: Hwy #16 & Rge Rd 185 (1 Mile East of Hwy 834) South Side of the Road Phone: (780) 208-2508 Office Aaron Olson -(403) 913-9644 -Allen Olson -(403) 783-0556
We are now accepting Listings for this Sale. Any items prelisted by July 5th will be included in our Sales Posters, Newspaper & Radio Advertising, Web Page & Social Media.
Selling equipment to all four Western provinces and the Northern USA.
Foamy fun for everyone. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Parade heading down Main Street.
(Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Canadian butterfly wings. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Night sky illuminated by fireworks. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Innisfree-Minburn 4-H Beef Club June Report
Keely Chomik Club reporter
That’s a wrap! The Innisfree-Minburn 4-h Beef Club 20232024 year is officially over! We had an amazing and successful year. We had our year-end windup party June 23 at the Innisfree ball diamonds. This included handing out plaques to all the members with a picture of their project as well as awards from throughout the year. We finished up with a fun ball game with the members.
We have one last field trip coming up July 22 where we get to watch a Riverhawks baseball game.
Our first meeting for the 2024-‘25 year will be held October 2, 2024. I hope to see everyone back and maybe even some new members.
Have a great summer!
Vice President Chase Hess, left, presents Mason McLaughlin with Reserve Champion framed photo. (Innisfree-Minburn 4-H Beef Club/ Submitted Photo)
Vice President Chase Hess, left, presents Boe Myshaniuk with framed photo for second place in senior judging and senior showmanship. (Innisfree-Minburn 4-H Beef Club/ Submitted Photo)
Chase Hess, right, presents Member of the Year Award to Camille Kassian. (InnisfreeMinburn 4-H Beef Club/ Submitted Photo)
Myrnam Fire - CONTINUED from PAGE 3
and pump, the unit can carry three crew members and transport one patient on a stretcher board. The side-by-side is outfitted with tracks instead of wheels, so it can handle a variety of weather conditions and challenges like water, mud and snow.
The 24-foot, five-ton box truck that was recently purchased has plenty of storage space for other firefighting equipment, including a boat that is used for water rescue and wet suits as well as storage container for additional water.
A special ramp, was custom designed and constructed by Northland Panels. Decals and the names of sponsors are listed on the exterior of the truck.
Chief John Fedoriuk said they hosted the event to personally thank and show their gratitude to community members, organizations and businesses who donated to the project. He admitted the project was a “big endeavour” but that he was so proud of what they all had accomplished.
Myrnam resident Nestor Saskiw grew up and attended school in the community. He went on to become a teacher and taught in Two Hills School and Myrnam. Saskiw said, “The fire department is very aggressive. They do a very good job and people admire their enthusiasm.” He feels the wildland unit will be easy to get into difficult places. Taras Saruk concurred, and pointed out that you never know if you will be the person in need of assistance from firefighters.
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Derwent resident Frank Osguthorpe attended the event with his friend Lee Gagne. He said he wanted to come by and personally thank the firefighters who assisted him and his sister who were involved in a bad accident at the intersection of Secondary Highway 45 and 881 on Dec. 1, 2022. They were trapped in their vehicle for 45 minutes on what might have been the coldest day of the year and vividly remembers the firefighters from Myrnam who helped them and provided the jaws-of-life to extricate them. “You couldn’t ask for a better bunch of guys.”
Fleet on display. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Derwent resident Frank Osguthorpe with members of the Myrnam Fire Department. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Lakeland Cup
Vegreville Thunder U15 Girls won gold medals, the U19 Girls took home silver medals and the U15 Boys earned bronze medals at the tournament that was hosted by Vegreville Minor Soccer Association (VMSA) at RJV Soccer Park from June 21 to June 23.
VMSA Registrar and Communications Director Shelley Berry, who also served as Assistant Coach for the U19 Girls said, “It was a fantastic Lakeland Cup for Vegreville Teams, and I’m super proud of them all! They will all be going to Provincials in St. Paul in July. It’s a little bittersweet for me this year as it’s my daughter Britney’s last year playing with VMSA.”
U19 Girls Head Coach Sheila Stemberger stated, “We have 16 players on our roster this year; about half are under 19 years of age and the other half are U17 players where three of the girls are playing their final season of the year in minor soccer. We had a great season with six games. For the tournament, we had a great start beating the Cold Lake team on the morning of June 22 and in the evening game they beat us to win gold.
At the beginning of the season, the girls continued to get better and we beat
The highlight of this tournament was the first game we played against Vermilion. We had a comeback win and our goalie Britney Berry was amazing in the last five minutes keeping us in a tight game and helping us win. This team has many girls with years of experience and dedication and it showed this weekend.”
U15 Girls Head Coach Ashley Winstanley stated they started with 14 girls but one got injured early in the season, so they played at the Lakeland Cup with 13 people. “The tournament went well. The girls came out and gave it their all.
Some of the highlights were the games were very well-matched. They communicated more than I have seen them do for the whole season. There was a lot of passing and things we worked on throughout the season that they all did extremely well with. Both I and the assistant coach Rory Sperling were super proud of them!
The win was a result of the teamwork of all the girls. It was a team fight for that gold medal.
This has been my favorite group that I have got to work with. They just had incredible teamwork and the friendships
they are building have been phenomenal! I am so happy to have the mix of U13 and U15 and to see the way they have come together has been extraordinary.”
Head Coach for Vegreville Thunder U15 Boys Alex Ramos described how their season was and how they did with this tournament, “We have 15 players signed up this year. Only 11 play at one time. It would have been nice to get a few more players as the season is quite compressed and we have lots of games in a
short amount of time which includes tournaments.
Our team was 2-2 during regular season play and we had two good tournaments. The highlight of the last tournament was that we earned bronze, and that will take us to Provincials. The boys scored some amazing goals and as a team they have improved since our first game of the season. I hope that these kids get better and maybe one day represent Canada. The sky is the limit!”
Taj Mahal
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Vermilion Saturday morning and then lost to Cold Lake in a 4-2 game for silver medals.
Vegreville U19 Girls versus Vermilion U19 Girls teams in action. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Vegreville U15 Boys versus Vermilion U15 Co-ed teams in action. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Tributes
OLINECK, Mafty – July 2, 2003
OLINECK, Vera – November 29, 2016
Through tears, we saw you fading
And we watched you pass away.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you did not go alone
For part of us went with you,
On the day God called you home.
So many things have happened
Since you were called away.
So many things to share with you
If you were here today.
They say time heals all sorrow
And helps us to forget
But so far time has only shown
We never will forget.
Forever in our hearts and deeply missed by your
Loving children Orest (Catherine) Olineck, Sylvia (George) Kupka, Patricia (Allan) Gee, Martha (Tom) Evans, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
ROZUMNIAK, Mary
In Loving memory of our dear Mother & Baba who passed away ten years ago on July 2, 2014
IF ROSES GROW IN HEAVEN
If roses grow in Heaven
Lord please pick a bunch for us, Place them in our Mother’s arms and tell her they’re from us.
Tell her we love her and miss her, and when she turns to smile, place a kiss upon her cheek and hold her for awhile.
Because remembering her is easy, We do every day, but there’s an ache within our hearts that will never go away.
Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Kelly & Glen and family
Brenda & Jim
In loving memory of our dearest
Husband, Father, Gido & Great-Gido William (Bill) Menzak
October 15, 1927 - July 4, 2021
Those special memories of our Dad,
Will always bring a smile.
If only we could have you back
For just a little while.
Then we could sit and talk again,
Just like we used to do.
You always meant so very much and always will.
The fact that you’re no longer here,
Will always bring us pain.
But just know you’re forever in our hearts
Until we meet again.
Rest in peace, Dad.
Forever Loved and deeply missed, but always remembered by
Your loving wife, Betty, Children, Grandchildren & Great-Grandchildren
KITT, David
In Loving Memory of My Dear Brother who left us far too soon.
July 26, 1970 - July 6, 2011 13 years…; Dave…I thought of you today But that is nothing new I thought about you yesterday And I will tomorrow too I think of you in silence
Why did you have to go For what it meant to lose you
Only those who love you know
Remembering you is easy
I do it every day
It’s the heartache of losing you That never goes away …Fly free Brother… Forever Loved and Missed
Sheila & Myron
HOMENIUK, Dale Carey
August 4, 1967 – June 24, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dale Carey Homeniuk of Vegreville, Alberta at the age of 56 years.
Dale will be lovingly remembered by his parents Nelson and Cynthia Homeniuk; brother Wayne (Carmen); sister Twila (Christian) Barclay; nephew Thayden; niece Meira; his long time partner Nicole; step-sons Mark (Megan) and their children Léonie and Eliot: Benjamin (Kelsey) and their son Aden: Jonathan (Suzanne) and their son Jack: and Christopher; along with numerous aunts , cousins and friends.
Cremation has taken place. As per Dale’s wishes, no funeral will be held. Donations in Dale’s memory may be made to “Alberta Diabetes Assn.” or charity of one’s choice.
To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, 780-603-5800
DARICHUK, Anne (nee Bandura)
February 4, 1925 – June 25, 2024
On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, Anne Darichuk of Mundare, Alberta passed away peacefully at the age of 99 years.
Anne is survived by her loving family, two daughters Lillian and Karrie; two grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren; two sisters Doris Darichuk and Kathy (Jack) Barber; also fondly remembered by nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her husband William (Bill); son Dennis; daughter Christine; and her parents Mike and Mary; three brothers John (Edith), Steve (Angie) and Ed (Irene); three sisters Lucy (Stan) Milan, Helen (Lawrence) Milan and Laura (Doug) McTavish; two brothers-in-law George (Louise) Darichuk and Adam Darichuk; two sisters-in-law Betty (Everett) Gieseker and Jean (Sam) Widynowski.
A public viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, from 2:00-5:00 p.m. at Autumn Rose Funeral Home where a prayer service will follow at 7:00 p.m. A private funeral service will be held at the St. Demetrius Russo-Greek Orthodox Church - Serediak’s with Fr. Alexios Surayev officiating. Interment to follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the “St. Demetrius Russo-Greek Orthodox Church – Serediak’s” or to the charity of one’s choice. To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, 780-603-5800
YAKIMETZ, Genevieve Blair
November 25, 2020 – June 28, 2024
Genevieve Blair Yakimetz tragically passed away on Friday, June 28, 2024 at the sweet young age of 3. Genevieve is survived by her loving family, father Michael and big brothers Drayson and Dallin. She was predeceased by her mother Courtney. Genevieve will be immensely missed by her grandparents Connie & Rob, Fred & Debbie, Arlene & Brian; great-grandmother Barb; along with numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. A Divine Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, July 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Vegreville, Alberta with Very Rev. Don Bodnar officiating. Interment to follow in Ascension of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church Cemetery – New Kiew. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations for cancer awareness in memory of Genevieve’s mother Courtney may be made via e-transfer to courtzmemory@gmail.com towards the Warrior Project or to the “New Kiew Parish.” To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, 780-603-5800
RAMSAY, Iris Evelyn Doreen May 7, 1949 – June 26, 2024
On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at the age of 75 years old, Iris lost her long hard battle with dementia. Iris leaves behind 1 brother Wayne Borley; 3 children Tamie (Murray) Gilson, Darrell (Jennifer) Ramsay, and Lynette (Dale Munro) Ramsay; 10 grandchildren Glenn Gilson, Tamara (Mark) Myer, Kathleen (Justin Kotzer) Gilson, Garth Munro, Connor (Morgana Pinkerton) Munro, Chad (Maria) Ramsay, Jase (Emily) Chaban, Elijah Ramsay, Jenna (Kris) Ketsa, and Hannah Wince; 10 great grandchildren, Azi Chaban-Prescod, Kayla Nordby, Kailey Flynn, Briella Kotzer, Kase Kotzer, Gunner Munro, Alexzander Sutherland, Kairo Pinkerton-Munro, Myles Myer and Talia Myer; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends . Iris was predeceased by her parents Cecil James & Edith Doreen Borley; 3 brothers Aubrey, Ben and Robert; 3 sisters Muriel, Myrtle and Irene; her husband of 44 years Albert Wayne Ramsay; and one grandson Dustin Chaban.
A Celebration of Life for Iris will be held on Friday, July 5, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Autumn Rose Funeral Home (5036-51 Ave. – North entrance) in
Request For Accountability And Transparency In Town Governance
Dear Editor,
I am writing to emphasize the critical importance of truth and transparency in elected roles, with a reminder that every decision should prioritize the best interests of our town, its infrastructure, tourism, community spirit and overall growth.
Recently a letter addressed to the Mayor and council was unfortunately misinterpreted in council meetings, a subsequent radio interview with the Mayor and a May 22 newspaper article. For transparency, I encourage all concerned parties to review the relevant documents, accessible via the “Town of Vegreville Meetings and Agendas” page under the May 21 Agenda-10.2 link.
While numerous letters were received, only a select few were posted, a decision seemingly left to council discretion. My response to the May 22 article can be found under the May 27 Agenda-6.4. I am puzzled by the redaction of council members’ names from direct quotes, which were easily identifiable to anyone reading the newspaper. Even my handwritten comment expressing gratitude to Councillor Warawa for acknowledging our letters was unnecessarily obscured.
Let me clarify the intent of our letters: a simple
request for the raising of federal, provincial and municipal flags and the painting of crosswalks in accordance with Alberta’s Traffic Act. This request was never intended to disparage any group but to promote inclusivity.
The headline choice of “VERSUS” in the article immediately skewed its context, misleading readers. Furthermore, mentioning our names without providing both perspectives is unprofessional and potentially legally problematic. It is crucial for our community to remain politically neutral to ensure true inclusivity. Recent social media interactions have unfortunately exacerbated tensions rather than bridging divides.
In conclusion, I urge our elected officials to uphold principles of fairness and accountability in their actions, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of ALL residents.
Sincerely, Edie Gegolick
Thanks for bringing additional information and clarity to this topic. Regarding our headline choice, we can only report on what is presented and not infer meaing nor intent. - AB
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
The Town of Vegreville did it again when they hosted The Party in the Park and 3 km Canada Day Colour Run which was brimming with family fun activities at Vegreville Elks/Kinsmen Park on July 1.
The weather was picture-perfect; smiling faces, dazzling colours, and fun activities decorated this event which saw over 500 attendees during peak time and well over 1,000 visitors to the park. New Wave Entertainment played music.
Doug Robb was the only live singer whose strong voice charmed a crowd
Crazy Laws
Nebraska
Barbers may not shave chest hair
Canada 157 With a Bang
while performing rock, country and pop music. Doug is a Canadian singer/songwriter and the front man for Edmonton Premier Cover Band Powerhouse.
This event also included mini-golf, food trucks, a BINGO Game, face painting, kids’ activities, prizes and a bouncy castle. There were fireworks in the later evening.
Alma Hiscock, a participant in the Colour Run said it was awesome. “The enthusiasm from the staff who threw the colours was amazing!”
Close to the Pysanka Egg, there were around 30 vendors at the Vendor Marketplace, which was a shopper’s dream as they sold everything people could think of, from homemade baked goods to handcrafted jewelry.
(Rosanne Fortier/ Photos)
Lots of fun in the Colour Run.
Doug Robb performs.
Family and friends enjoying the day.
A great view of the vendor marketplace at the Pysanka Park
A Time of Recognition
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Royal Canadian Legion (RCL) Branch No. 39 presented the Years of Service Pins to their members in five-year increments at the RCL Hall on June 23.
Honours and Awards Service Officer Rod Stewart announced the award pin recipients and President Terry Kuzyk presented the awards.
Stewart stated a special award was the long service medal for being a member of the branch for 50 years.
“Comrade Chuck St. Clair has been an active member where he was our Branch President for a while.”
Clair said he was honoured to receive this. “I am going to have this medal mounted on my Legion uniform. It is nice to be recognized for your service.”
The other award recipients who were present were:
Branch Chaplain Rev. Laureta Blondin, who received the Chaplain medal, Fern Cleveland for 15 years,
Angela Phillips for 20 years, Gregory Cuthbertson for Five years, Andy Herbert for 20 years, Cindy Herbert for 20 years, Ria Radcliffe for 30 years, and Carolyn Woodall for 10 years.
Terry Kuzyk presents the medal to Chuck St. Clair. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
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Cheerful Spring Event
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
There were many smiling faces, beautifully arranged tables and an array of gifts to be won at the Heritage House Spring Tea Fundraiser and Vendor Sale on June 13.
Recreation Aide Kristen Gusnowski said, “Fiftyeight guests plus 38 of our residents attended. The total amount generated from our 50/50 sales, admission fees and raffle sales was an astonishing $735! This event was a great opportunity for the residents, their guests, family members, employees and members of the public to dress up and have a great
time. It is a social occasion; residents catch up on community information.
The Resident and Family Council uses the money for annual and perennial plants, special furniture, entertainment, and Christmas gifts for the residents.
Over the years, families have donated fancy teacups to Heritage House, and we use this event to showcase this beautiful China. The employees from Heritage House order tablecloths that coordinate with the season, and flowers in bunches; the residents use their creative skills to arrange bouquets in small vases. We are grateful to everyone who attended the tea.”
Delightfully Delicious Events
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Vegreville Elks Lodge No. 143 and Canadian Royal Purple Lodge (CRPL) No. 125 members got together to host the Garage Sale and Pie Fundraiser where people could have a slice from one of 13 homemade pies by a donation of their choice.
CRPL Chairperson Shirley Rattray expressed they did very well with the sale. “This is the second year we hosted this event and there was a good turnout.
We wanted to generate some funds to go into our general
account to give back to our community; the groups that need money.
Also, we enjoyed making the pies. We love to socialize and show what our non-profit groups are all about. We are grateful to the Elks for helping with the sale; especially the heavy lifting.
A sample of one of the projects we do annually is on June 12 this year was the Vegreville Royal Purple Visitation where we visited the residents and gave the staff and residents watermelon. We went to all the five Senior Lodges in Vegreville.”
Members of the two groups who helped at the sale. Missing from the photo is Stacy Mynzak and Ed Ahlstrom. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
People enjoying the event. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
This young lad is expressing that the sale is super cool. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
