Vegreville News Advertiser - March 25, 2020 by The News Advertiser - Vegreville, AB

VOL. 73 NO. 13

73 YEARS OF SERVING THE COMMUNIT Y WEDNESDAY, March, 25, 2020 The Only Locally Owned News & Adver tising Media in Vegreville .

• • • •

Pre-arranged funeral plans Personalized burial and cremation services Provincial, national & international service Professional guidance to help meet your needs

780-632-2000 | 24 HR: 1-877-426-0050 4814 – 50 Street, Vegreville

COVID-19 Affects Local Food Establishments EDMONTON • LAMONT • MAYERTHORPE • SMOKY LAKE

Vegreville g Liquor q Store EVERYDAY low prices

Our hours of operation have NOT changed

Local food establishments are having to make adjustments amid COVID-19. At the Tim Hortons they only offer drive-through and on-line orders. The did offer some encouragement with their sign that reads, ‘We are Vegreville Strong’. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Some of the restaurants and food establishments in Vegreville have changed the way people can purchase food because of the need to be cautious to prevent the spread of COVID-19. A&W is one of these restaurants. Manager Catherine Herrera said the restaurant is open for take-out and the drive-through. “This is very sad because we usually had many customers in the morning; we had the coffee people who liked

to be in the dining area and now it is kind of slow.” Another fast-food restaurant, Tim Hortons is only doing drivethrough and online orders through their Mobile App. “After you do the Mobile App order you have to pick it up at our restaurant,” said Carol Maneubat, Supervisor of Tim Hortons. “Also, we wash our hands every 30 minutes; we wear gloves, and use sanitizer. As far as business is concerned, we are still

doing well.” Nolan Kobelsky, Manager for McDonald’s, said their restaurant is only doing take-out orders right now. “Our lobby is closed and people can just go in to order food and take it out. From doing this, our sales have dropped a fair bit.” Scott Dixon, owner of Boston Pizza said it is a moving target and has changed about a half dozen times so far. “Right now, we are doing the take-out and delivery for

Sunday to Wednesday 10AM to 8PM and Thursday to Saturday 10AM to 10PM

Food Establishments - CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

Measures Implemented at Homestead Lodge

Sunshine Club Annual General Meeting

See page 8 for story

See page 19 for story

PAGE 2

News Advertiser

march 25, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

www.NEWSADVERTISER.com

ads@newsadvertiser.com news@newsadvertiser.com

WHAT’S INSIDE Agriculture.....................15 Business............................5 Classiﬁeds......................18 Community....................10 Employment.............16,17 Family.............................2 2 Letters to the Editor.........2 Marketplace...................21 Notices...........................14 Real Estate................23 Tenders...........................14 Tributes....................20 Upcoming.................19

Love Themed Drop-In Page 10

Auxiliary St. Patrick’s Day Page 22

4-DAY WEATHER Thurs. 2°C

Fri. -4°C

Sat. -2°C

MORE ON PAGE 16

facebook.com/Vegreville

@NewsAdvertiser

Check page 4 for staff, flyers, auctions, real estate and more.

Dear Editor, In response to the fact that volunteers are now sewing face masks in the U.S. due to a shortage of supplies, I have found a pattern at https://www.craftpassion.com/wp-content/ uploads/2013/08/face-mask-pattern-1.pdf I shall be very happy to sew these masks for any facility that needs them. Nancy Mereska ---------------------------------------------Thank you for your letter and your support to our community. It is important for people to understand that masks are an item that are to be used properly and primarily by

front line workers. Health professionals urge people who are not sick to not use masks as they offer little protection. Only people who are sick should wear mask to prevent the spread of the virus. There, unfortunately, have also been reports of supplies going missing from hospitals which puts front line workers at risk. Many do not realize, but the CDC supports handmade masks in times of crisis. There are many efforts worldwide. kudos to you for bringing this to our readers and joining the effort. - AB

march 25 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

News Advertiser PAGE 3

Battle River School Division Trustees Vote on School Closures and Consolidation Motions Michelle Pinon News Advertiser March 19 was decision day for trustees in the Battle River School Division (BRSD) who were voting school closures and consolidation motions. Trustees voted to reallocate the 35 high school students from Ryley School and consolidate Holden School and Ryley School into one school site serving students in Kindergarten to Grade 9. This will be located at Ryley School and Holden School will be closed. Trustees also voted to close Allan Johnstone School, a K to 9 facility in Hardisty, which serves 48 students. They also voted to continue to operate Round Hill School, a K to 9 facility serving 86 students. According to a press release issued by BRSD: “Each of the Board members expressed their appreciation for the work of the school staff, and emphasized these decisions are in no way a reflection of their work. In addition, they praised the dedication and passion of parents and communities who have addressed the board in recent weeks. In the words of Board Chair Norm Erickson, “these are very difficult deci-

sions and they are not made lightly. Each Board member has considered all aspects of the question and voted based on their own perspective. No one has voted without thinking long and hard about the implications. Now that the decisions are made, it’s time to move forward. We will do our very best to make the transition to a new reality a smooth one for students and families, whether they are moving to a new school site, welcoming additional students to an existing school or staying in the same school, but adjusting to a new level of funding.” Glen Hamilton-Brown, Chief Administrative Officer for the Village of Ryley, issued this response to the decision, stating: “Given the recent provincial budget that provided more money to every single school division and a model that places emphasis on rural education. Ryley is disappointed that the BRSD could not reconcile their financial pressures to deliver high school in central Beaver County. Ryley is also disappointed that the BRSD could not reconcile their financial pressures to maintain a presence in the Village of Holden. Ryley is extremely disappointed for

Holden and Hardisty as well as for ourselves because these closures have a huge negative impact on the community’s future and it is a rare case that a community can remain vibrant after their school has been removed. Ryley is committed to serving its community ahead of any competing priorities of the BRSD. There are a number of good alternatives aside from the public education program delivered by the BRSD; and Ryley will now engage its citizens to fully understand what our community needs for delivery of high school.” Sherry Garbe, CAO for the Village of Holden, provided this statement: The Village of Holden council, administration and staff are disappointed with BRSD board’s decision to close Holden School. The recent provincial budget has provided more money to every school division and placed the emphasis on rural education. We are sad that

this money will not be utilized to keep the school open. Holden will continue to work with the Village of Ryley to ensure that the students stay involved with both communities. This closure will have a huge impact on the future of Holden, it will be very difficult for the community to remain vibrant. The Village of Holden council and administration will be doing everything possible to ensure that Holden remains vibrant and economically feasible. As a strong community, the challenge will be to ensure the children receive the education they need to become the future of Holden.”

20034DG0

PAGE 4

News Advertiser

march 25, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Stop Freaking Out Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser - Opinion People are getting crazy. You would think it’s Armageddon out there. People with certain life experience will know exactly what I’m talking about. These folks understand what a crisis is and what constitutes a challenge. Others.... they are freaking out. I was trying to decide on a title for this week’s article. I was really liking “Useful Idiots” but then after reading the definition, I realized that the obvious part was “useful”. Now I understand there are some people who are prone to panic and some that don’t have the understanding to wrap their head around the current situation. Some people are almost frozen by fear. At the same time, there are people who are raiding grocery stores while not exercising proper social distancing. Fear of the unknown is normal. Panic can be controlled. Now I have to get this off my chest before I explode. STOP panic buying!! Everyone from local grocers to people in the supply chain to manufacturers have stated that our food supply in Canada is both safe and reliable. Buying 2 years of toilet paper will not save you from COVID-19. There have been no reports of explosive diarrhea from this virus. Common sense (which is not so common) and logic will get us through this. The reason there are paper isles and shelves

that are bare is because stores re-stock based on regular consumer buying patterns. When people go bonkers and start buying truckloads of TP, the system can’t easily adjust. That is what we are seeing now. The result of people acting irrationally and panic buying? First, the store shelves go empty. This, in turn, creates issues for people like seniors and shift workers who do buy logically but cannot manage to battle for the now limited supplies. Next comes limits (one paper product per family) which also impacts regular people who have different needs, such as someone with a large family or someone buying for a business full of people. If you’re not sure if 500 rolls is too much, check out this site: https://howmuchtoiletpaper.com/ Now I’m not saying that things aren’t serious. Only President Trump thinks the virus will magically go away when we can go for a walk in the park in warm weather. Optimistic estimates say 4 - 6 weeks, however, many health professionals say we are in this for 6 - 8 months depending on how seriously we take social distancing. With every time we get complacent creating a new resurgence. Perfect examples are Spring break in the US, and beaches in Vancouver where students were crowding in bars and on beaches as if there was no pandemic or they were invincible. Unfortunately, while they may not get sick (some infected have been found to show NO symptoms) they may carry the virus back to those who are susceptible. Reality check for the uninformed... The LA Times has reported that the coronavirus pandemic has claimed the lives of an infant and a teenager and even a newborn has tested positive. YOU ARE NOT immune. Close to 40% of hospitalized COVID-19 patients in the U.S. are aged 20 to 54.

Last week when I wrote my article, we were at around 197,000 infections worldwide. A week later as of this article, we are at 417,000. In closed cases... the death rate is up to 15%. Dr. Anthony Fauci, an American immunologist who, as a physician employed by the National Institutes of Health of the United States has stated that there is “No PROVEN safe and effective treatments. No magic drug”. There IS NO vaccine. There is lots of research and many professionals are testing options but this is all in the works. Don’t listen to your buddy or your social media feed. Get real information from real professionals. This means that self-isolation, social distancing (6 feet of separation) and being hypersensitive about handwashing and what you touch is critical in the battle. The goal at this time is what is known as “flattening the curve” which means spreading out the inevitable so we do not overload the system. So remember, panic buying will not solve this issue and will not cure anything. Our food supply is safe. Kraft, which produces Kraft Dinner, has seen a 35 percent increase in demand for the pasta product and a 41 percent spike in demand for

Stop Freaking Out - CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 Name: Keith Renneberg Occupation: IT help desk Likes: golf, computers Dislikes: crowded spaces, physical work.

march 25 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Chamber of Commerce Provides Updates Michelle Pinon New Advertiser The Vegreville & District Chamber of Commerce closed its office to general walk-ins on March 16. The official notice on Facebook states: “We believe health & safety is a shared responsibility and are encouraging best practices in slowing the spread of the COVID-19 Virus. The office will be closed to general walk-ins. Staff can be reached by phone or email for any of your inquiries.” Several other businesses in Vegreville and surrounding areas have followed suit. The Vegreville & District Chamber of Commerce posts daily updates on its Facebook page to keep everyone apprised of the ever- changing situation. “It’s a very fluid situation, but we’re working diligently behind the scenes to advocate on behalf of businesses,” said General Manager Michelle Henderson. The local chamber also works with the Alberta Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, and have weekly conference calls to get clarity on funding and what it does means for businesses in our community. “We’re trying to untangle it as we go. It’s been hectic, but we’ve been doing the best we can.” She added that the Alberta Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce can also provide additional information and guidance for businesses. On March 18 the Alberta Government announced new supports for Albertans and employers in response to the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic. A temporary Emergency Isolation Support program of $50 million for working adult Albertans who must self-isolate. As well, a residential, farm and small commercial businesses can defer electricity and natural gas bill payments for the next 90 days. Alberta businesses can also defer the collection of corporate income tax balances and instalment payments until August 31. Travis Toews, President of the Alberta Treasury Board and Minister of Finance, stated on March 23: “We will freeze residential education property taxes and defer the collection of business education property taxes for six months. “Eliminating the scheduled adjustment of education property taxes and deferring collection of non-residential property taxes will result in savings to Albertans and improved business cash flow. This measure will help Alberta households and businesses during this time – we want to keep Albertans working while we get through these difficult times together.” Toews went onto say, “We are expecting municipalities to set education property tax rates as they normally would, but defer collection. During a pandemic, Alberta households and businesses should not need to worry about paying additional property taxes. Reversing the 3.4% population and inflation adjustment will save Alberta households and businesses about $87 million in 2020-21, which means $55 million for house-

holds and $32 million for employers. We are expecting municipalities to set education property tax rates as they normally would, but defer collection.” Toews also announced WCB premiums deferral for private sector businesses until early 2021, effectively for one year. Employers who have already paid their WCB premium payment for 2020 are eligible for a rebate or credit. For small and medium businesses, the government will cover 50 percent of the premium when it is due. Large employers will also receive a break by having their 2020 WCB premium payments deferred until 2021, at which time their premiums will be due. Paying 50 percent of small and medium private sector WCB premiums for 2020 will cost the Alberta government approximately $350 million. On March 23 the Canadian Chamber of Commerce issued a letter to the Prime Minister and Premiers urging them to clearly define essential services, consider all aspects of the supply chain and ensure consistent application across our country. That said, we’re prepared to do whatever we can to support their efforts to ensure the well-being of Canadians. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has also provided website links to the Government of Canada’s website which has information regarding Employment Insurance Sickness Benefits and the steps that are required to apply for those benefits. It also has a link regarding restrictions on nonessential travel between Canada and the United States that was announced on March 18. http://chamber.ca/… /200318-north-american-trade-flows-rema…/

News Advertiser PAGE 5

PAGE 6

News Advertiser

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

march 25, 2020

FROM THE PAGES OF THE VEGREVILLE OBSERVER

COMPILED BY DAN BEAUDETTE

90 Years Ago – March 26, 1930

Announcements of interest to the Vegreville detachment of the Alberta Mounted Rifles were made on Tuesday evening at the smoker held in honor of their hockey team. Headquarters for the regiment, instead of being in Medicine Hat where the interest is nil, have been transferred to Vegreville. This means that the regiment stores will be kept in the Armouries here. The total value of Alberta’s agricultural production for the year 1929 is placed at $242,052,089, as compared with $264,607,299 in 1928, a decrease of 22,555,299 according to the statement just issued by the Alberta department of Agriculture. Mr. Hetsler who has been managing the creamery for the past two years has been transferred to Tofield and Clifford Heatherington of Tofield has taken over the managership of the Ryley creamery. Three thousand dollars only partly covered with insurance is the estimated loss when the large and commodious house owned by J. Fontaine in the Warwick district was destroyed by fire on Saturday morning. The fire was not discovered until too late for anything to be done. There had been a house party in the house the previous night and it is believed that the fire originated where someone dropped a lighted cigarette stub.

75 Years Ago – March 28, 1945

Mr. E.C. Cranstoun, former teller in the Bank of Commerce here, has left for the city with his family and taken up business and residence in Lethbridge, where he will be working in company with his father. Mr. Cranston’s position at the bank has been filled by F.J. Gibson, formerly of the Lethbridge Branch. Mr. Gibson has been honourably discharged from the army after having served for forty-five months. New orders, announced by the Wartime Prices and Trade Board set ceiling prices on used household appliances including sewing machines, electric washing machines, electric and gas refrigerators, stoves and ranges and other cooking and heating equipment, radios and tubes, vacuum cleaners, and also musical instruments. Two sets of price ceilings have been established, the higher for rebuilt and require repairs, may not be sold for more than 60% of ceiling price for the same model when rebuilt. Price schedules, available at WPTB offices, are the same for individuals as for dealers. On every sale, the seller must prepare a sales invoice in duplicate, detailing the transaction, give one copy to the buyer and retain the second one for two years after date of sale.

50 Years Ago – March 26, 1970

Ratepayers at the annual meeting of the County of Minburn examined where their tax dollars were being spent and found from the “tax pie” prepared by secretary-treasurer Fred Trefanenko that municipal services were taking 23c of every dollar, education 69.3c and health services 7.7c. A 6-ft long cake weighing 35 lbs. was presented to the MinburnEagle Auxiliary Hospital last week. The cake was one of five entries which the Food Service Students of the Vegreville Composite High School entered in the Greater Edmonton Culinary Art Festival recently. The cake was made and entered by Miss Evelyn Pagee. A dozen horse fanciers of Vegreville district took advantage of a course in shoeing horses and trimming hooves. Among the attendees were: Benny Grinde, Sam Field, Cecil Campbell, Martin Shewchuk, Reuben Grinde, Herb Sinclair, Sid Smith, Don Bates, Nick Chomik, Bill Diachuk and Ron Cheremshynski.

25 Years Ago – March 28, 1995

Vegreville Chief’s captain Quentin Warawa’s jersey was retired during the opening ceremonies of the pee wee B-2 provincial championship tournament being held in Vegreville. Quentin died in a snowmobile accident in January. On hand for the ceremony were his sister Tammy, mother Pat and father Wayne. A prairie raised singing trio called the Farmer’s Daughter, one of whom is Shauna Rae Samograd of Innisfree, has been nominated for two Juno Awards. The Vegreville Catholic Separate School Division will offer 400 hours of kindergarten next year. At its meeting Monday night, the division’s board approved a 400 hour program with registration and materials fees. The program will cost parents $160 for registration and another $40 for materials. Mayor Kay McKenzie purchased the first membership for the Vegreville Transportation Society from Society treasurer Pauline Korpan. The Society is working towards a daily, regular scheduled bus service in Vegreville. The Vegreville Agricultural Society handed out its first ever Dorothy Dand Memorial Scholarships. The scholarships are given to children of current or former directors, permanent employees or members of the Society. This year’s winners are Lisa Clamp and Nicole Powley.

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. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to withhold letters from publication.

With COVID-19, Home Cooking May Get its Mojo Back Sylvain Charlebois Dalhousie University These are unprecedented times for all of us. And frankly, we’re all trying to figure out how to deal with our new lives, even if we know it will only last for a while. These strange days mean normalcy is not an option, for the safety of us all. Public health officials and political leaders in Canada have done an outstanding job thus far. Media members have been miracle workers, keeping the Canadian public well informed, even making content open access. Thank goodness for them. The not-so-graceful part of our collective journey to cope with this global threat has been the panic buying we’ve seen everywhere. People have been impulsively, irrationally emptying shelves. We’re complicated beings and it’s hard to judge anyone since we’re in uncharted waters. People manage anxiety and risks in their own way. And as a society, we will go through cycles of emotions, compulsions, and foolishness. We’re in the worst of it but it will end eventually. With quarantines, cancellations, closures and social distancing, home is – more than ever – the safest place to be. One positive could be that everyone can spend more time in the kitchen, a place where fewer Canadians have spent time in recent years. The evidence suggesting Canadians are spending less time in the kitchen is mounting, despite record cookbook sales. Canadians buy almost $100 million worth of cookbooks and food-related literature every year, but sales of tools and appliances used for cooking, like spatulas, mixers and cooking bowls, have dropped steadily every year over the last five years. In 2019, sales for appliances and other items normally used in private kitchens dropped by two percent. The average Canadian can now watch over 250 hours of cooking or food-related shows a week on television. A few networks are solely devoted to food. Still, cooking is just a fantasy for a growing number of Canadians. Time has been unkind to kitchens. A recent survey

by Dalhousie University shows that of people born before 1946, 95 percent ate meals prepared by parents or a caregiver at home when growing up. That percentage dropped significantly over the years. Millennials were not exposed to home-cooked meals as much, nor were generation Z members. About 64 percent of millennials regularly ate home-cooked meals when growing up, compared to 55 percent for gen Z. Compared to the older generation, those are whopping drops. So younger generations have a different appreciation for the kitchen and how food is prepared and consumed at home. But the COVID-19 pandemic could make younger generations more familiar with the kitchen. More time at home can benefit us all. In the same survey conducted by Dalhousie, 68.4 percent of Canadians polled said they would like to spend more time preparing food at home. With the current public safety measures, they’ll get their wish. Buying and reading a cookbook is like watching a good movie. We can project ourselves into the story, imagine we can do things we never thought possible, making us dream. Some modern cookbooks are masterpieces, works of art. But most cookbooks have been used as coffee table books or re-gifted and that’s a shame. But COVID-19 could change everything. As we’re forced to spend more time at home, and with provisions safely nestled in cupboards and freezers, the opportunity to revisit our kitchens daily has never been so good. Equipped with unread cookbooks and underused kitchen tools, Canadians can now see some action in the kitchen. We will get through this by sticking together and listening to our competent public health officials. In the meantime, let’s dust off our cookbooks and get reacquainted with the one room that can truly be considered the heart of anyone’s home: the kitchen.

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agrifood analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University.

march 25 2020

Churches in Vegreville Change Masses, Services, and Supports Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Some of the churches in Vegreville are presenting their masses and services differently in light of the Alberta Government’s recent declaration of the Public Health State of Emergency to minimize the possible spread of COVID19. Pastor Dareen Driedger from Vegreville Alliance Church said they are suspending their services where people would meet physically in the church. “We will be providing on-line service so people can continue to connect with our church and we can continue to provide ministry. We are not sure exactly what this service will look like right now. We are trying to figure out the details but it will be hosted through our church’s website. We are hoping it will be available for the week of March 22. Other things we are doing to assist parishioners at this difficult time is we are keeping in touch through our e-newsletter and then we will be trying some other ideas of how we can continue to connect with people and connect with each other while people are in isolation as it is not healthy spiritually to be in isolation. We are working towards ideas on how people will be able to get spiritual support,” Driedger explained. Holly Cependa, Member of Ministry and Personnel Committee for Vegreville United Church said they were going to cancel their church services for two weeks following the Public Health State of Emergency in Alberta due to the COVID-19 virus. “The Kids Klub has been canceled until school resumes, all the lodge services have been canceled until the provincial’s guidelines allow it. All the

funeral services will follow the guidelines set out by the funeral directors and the Government of Alberta. The weekly bible study will be canceled for the first week following the State of Emergency’s announcement but they hope to continue for the next week by using an on-line platform which will be either through Facebook, Messenger, YouTube, or something along that line. The staffing hours will be reduced; the minister will be working from home but Rev. Pamela Minton will be available either through phone, text, e-mail, Facebook, or Messenger. The secretary also will have some reduced hours and she will be doing some of her work from home. And of course, the custodian will also be working at reduced hours. The organist won’t be required until worship services resume. We will take a look at it as things change and settle down, then we will look at doing other things. We are also looking at getting some help with the new conferencing as we tried to go live on Facebook the other day, the picture was great but the sound was awful so we need to figure that all out. What we are doing with the congregation is we are encouraging them to continue with their faith journey by taking time for themselves with prayer and meditation. Maybe they could sing some favorite hymns to help with the spirit and make sure they do things they enjoy. Then within our region; the Great Northern Spirit Region there are some churches which already do online worship services so we will be giving everyone a link they can go to, to check things out this way. So, we are hoping that everyone will stay healthy and safe and we are doing the best we can to ensure this,” stated Cependa.

Innisfree-Minburn 4-H Beef Club March Report Brad McLaughlin Club Reporter The Innisfree-Minburn 4-H Beef Club held its monthly meeting at the Minburn Curling Rink on March 4. After the meeting, we were shown how to make a rope halter and one of the better methods of tying a calf to a post. We each got to make out own rope halter. The Minburn district held the District Public Speaking on February 29 at the Innisfree Rec Center. Three of our members spoke at the competition; Tyson Rudolf, Camille Kassian, and Brad McLaughlin. Camille and Tyson both moved on to the Regional Public Speaking Competition which was to be held in Portage College in St Paul on March 21 but was canceled due to the Covid-19 virus. Also canceled was the District Curling which was to be held on March 22 in Innisfree, and District Dodgeball on March 28 in Vegreville. We were really looking forward to those fun activities. On April 17 our club is going to visit the Lakeland Animal Health Center and Vermilion Packers for a behindthe-scenes look at their operations for our club field trip. Our next meeting will be held at the

News Advertiser PAGE 7

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Innisfree Millennium Building on April 15.

H&R Block Tax Tips Submitted If you are a resident of Ontario, New Brunswick, Manitoba or Saskatchewan, you will begin paying the federal carbon tax on April 1, 2019. That is the bad news. The good news is that the government is refunding you what you will have to pay upfront in the form of the Climate Action Incentive. This is a refundable tax credit

which you can only get by filing an income tax return. If you sold your home this year, make sure to designate it as your principal residence when you file your tax return. Failure to do so could result in the principal residence exemption being denied, which could result in the capital gain being taxable. You may also claim the

Canada caregiver amount for children under 18 at the end of the year who have an impairment in physical or mental functions. The child must be dependent on others for assistance in attending to personal needs and care when compared to children of the same age. For 2018, the amount is $2,182.

PAGE 8

News Advertiser

Precautionary Measures Implemented at Homestead Lodge

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Homestead Lodge in Vegreville has implemented a number of measures in response to the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak. Marielle Brodziak, Executive Director of the MD of Minburn Foundation, said “Homestead Lodge has been in ‘lockdown’ for the past week. This means no persons other than Homestead Lodge staff and Alberta Health Services Home Care staff are allowed in the building, and residents are not allowed to leave the premises unless there’s an emergency. Home Care has implemented a new schedule in order to minimize the number of staff visiting the lodge. The regular cleaning and disinfection schedule has been increased as a pre-

march 25, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

vention measure for infection control. The importance of hand hygiene is constantly discussed by staff to residents. Hand Sanitizer is made available in more locations throughout our facility,” noted Brodziak. She went onto say, “Our Activity Coordinator has reported increased participation in daily activities, and we will be providing extra activities to ensure mental health is addressed. Our goal is to keep our residents in the best health possible, physically and mentally.” As well, Brodziak said they are striving to maintain a sense of calm in the facility. Staff are now offering Facetime sessions for its residents. Homestead Lodge currently has 60 residents, 10 full-time and 15 parttime employees.

Wonderful Winter Fun

Vegreville 4-H Multi-Club members go tobogganing. (Rosanne Fortier/photo)

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Members of the Vegreville 4-H Multi Club recently enjoyed all the wonders of nature while keeping active when they went tobogganing at the Vegreville Elks/ Kinsmen Community Park 20034DG1

march 25 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

News Advertiser PAGE 9

PAGE 10

News Advertiser

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

march 25, 2020

MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk Reads to Children at Storytime at the Library

MLA, Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk reads a story to Archer Gegolick. (Rosanne Fortier/photo)

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk was the special story time reader at the Vegreville Centennial Library recently. Homeniuk read the books, ‘Don’t Cut My Hair’ by Hans Wilhelm, ‘Seeing Red’ by Robert Munsch, and ‘Look at Me’ by Robert Munsch. While she read the stories, Homeniuk listened well to the children’s comments and answered their questions.

Armstrong-Homeniuk said she wanted to read to the children because of the importance of literacy and to try and coincide her talk with Family Literacy Day. “Literacy is important because literacy and numeracy are skills we obviously need for life and it is important to read to your children and to read to them everyday.” After this, the library had some crafts available for the children to participate in.

Love Themed Drop-In at PLC Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Children were able to experience Valentine’s Day with all its wonder, decorations, and food at the Love Themed Drop-In at Vegreville and Area Parent Link Centre (PLC) on February 14. Litania Holyk, Community

Programmer for PLC said for Valentine’s Day, they made a love bug craft, had an activity where children could match patterns of hearts together, and she read a story about love to the children. Also, it was Alexia Perez’s birthday on February 15 so they celebrated her birthday on February 14 at PLC.

Mindy with her daughter, Nara Walters. (Rosanne Fortier/photo)

march 25 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

News Advertiser PAGE 11

Hairy Hill Farmer Talks About Agriculture Today Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Ron Mosiuk and his wife, Kathy Sawchuk farm near the Hamlet of Hairy Hill. They have 50 head of cattle and farm one-quarter section of land and have been doing so for the past 25 to 30 years. Ron said he hopes he can start seeding in the middle of May. He is not trying any new farm techniques this year. “We might land up summer fallowing this year,” Ron said. When Ron was asked about how he believes the COVID-19 will affect their farming, he replied, “I don’t think it will affect us much. I feel it might affect getting fertilizer. But I am sure there will be fertilizer out there because a lot of bigger farmers get it in advance. COVID-19 might also affect farmers getting fuel where we might not be able to buy fuel if they ever stopped producing it. But I think it will keep going. These next

couple of months will probably be the worst. But even now, I was watching the news and they said not to worry

tough to get out in the field and try to get seeded or to finish combining in the fall time, it is always wet. The last

the grocery stores are getting supplies in that way, it is not a big panic.” Then when Ron was asked what the challenges were to farming today, he replied it has been so wet outside for a lot of years now. “It has been really

three years already has been quite bad. It was very dry before that but almost in a way that was better because with the wet conditions, a person is not able to get into the field. Last year, we won’t able to spray so our

crop had more weeds and stuff then it should have had. A little bit of land around three or four acres got too wet for us to seed, so we lost that. Making hay is a bit tougher because it is always raining. But we have a tractor and a shredder, so we shred our hay out. I am doing this by hand to make it last longer. We try not to waste much. This year, it seems like farmers have enough hay but yet it is going to be close because we couldn’t make all that hay last year.” When Ron was asked what he was doing for his emotional health, he answered that he is just going with the flow and hoping things will get better. “I am thinking about the good points about farming which is the freedom a person has and the ability to do whatever we want to. We don’t have a close neighbour telling us that they don’t like this or that. Nobody has to tell you what to do,” Ron explained.

PAGE 12

News Advertiser

march 25, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Local Producers Reaping the Benefits of Hemp Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Canadian Rockies Hemp Corporation (CRHC) is working to develop Alberta as a global hemp processing hub, and is currently in the midst of constructing its bio-refining processing plant in Bruderheim. The plant is expected to open Spring 2020 and will employ 50 to 100 plant employees and 25 to 50 support workers. CRHC has been working closely with local farmers, contracting hemp acres and providing specific high- quality feedstock to the plant that will be capable of processing 50,000 acres of hemp per year, producing 50,000 tonnes of fibre

and 120,000 tonnes of hurd. After successfully contracting 13,000 plus acres of hemp in 2019 from 31 local farmers, CRHC is contracting 20,000 to 30,000 acres of hemp for the 2020 growing season and will be working with 100 to 150 local farmers. Todd Brodziak, who farms near St. Brides, is one of those farmers who has contracted acres with CRHC. “Hemp doesn’t get manipulated by the market,” said Brodziak. By entering into a contract, Brodziak said it guarantees stable set prices. What he also finds appealing about hemp is the diversity and change it brings to crop rotation. He said that’s important since Clubroot has been established in the area and hemp has been proven to be an effective form of weed control. “Everybody is thinking greener,” added Brodziak. Hemp sequesters 15 tonnes of carbon per acre. He has also changed what he uses for fertilizer and herbicide. He has also been investing time, energy and money into regenerating the topsoil, creating a deeper grow zone, so there

will be less chance of clubroot, and adding natural nutrients back into the soil. “I’m stepping out of the box.” Once hemp gets established, Brodziak said it out-competes other crops and weeds, which is a definite plus. Even though 2019 wasn’t the best as far as growing conditions because it was cool and there wasn’t a lot of sun, Brodziak is hopeful for the coming season. He said he learned a lot of lessons and will not plant the seeds as deep and drain any standing water if there are several days of rain this year. He also plans to seed earlier so he can cut and harvest the bales by the middle of August and then follow up by planting winter wheat. There are so many uses for hemp, said Brodziak. According to CRHC, there are 50,000 known uses. Some of which include: textiles, paper, building material, and bedding. “The possibilities are almost endless,” noted Brodziak, who will be toiling away this year to help himself and the environment.

march 25 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

News Advertiser PAGE 13

Crop Management Network Inc. Upgrades Vegreville Facility to Better Serve Customers Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

every dollar does as much as it can.” The company also conducts yearly trials for canola, planting six to eight different varieties that are suitable to grow in this region. “For canola we try to grow trials a year before they sell the product,” noted Dinwoodie.

While Spring may be a ways off, Garth Dinwoodie has been kept busy preparing for the planting season ahead. Dinwoodie, General Manager-Partner of Crop Management Network Inc. in Vegreville, said they have completed a number of upgrades to better serve customers. They recently installed two 50 tonne scale bins that will allow them to load two trucks with fertilizer at a time. “They (farmers) are looking for greater speed and delivery,” stated Dinwoodie. The company also added new storage bins for the blending of dry fertilizer. “We ship about 20,000 metric tonnes of dry fertilizer and 7,000 metric tonnes of liquid fertilizer every year.” Spring harvest could prove chalGarth Dinwoodie, General Manager-Partner of the Crop Management Network lenging, but Dinwoodie said they Inc. in Vegreville, is ready for the upcoming planting season. are prepared to hit the ground running. The company is proud to offer quality crop input products, progressive solutions and valued services that contribute to higher crop yields. They also supply all chemical inputs as well as grass, canola, wheat, barley, oat and pea seeds. In the Fall they collect soil and chemical samples and work over the winter to determine the type and the amount of fertilizer that should be applied in the Spring. “We have to make sure

In 2015 they acquired Prairie Crop Management in Vegreville. Currently, they have six full-time employees. They are one of nine crop management facilities in Alberta. Other facilities include: Holden, Edberg, Kelsey, Daysland, Camrose, Stettler, Fort Saskatchewan, Onoway and Mayerthorpe. All of the facilities are employeeowned and serve as strategic partners with farm businesses throughout Alberta and Western Canada. Coupled with its integrated logistics company, it is the largest independent retail network in the province.

PAGE 14

News Advertiser

march 25, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Municipalities Make Announcements Regarding COVID-19 Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Due to the rapidly changing situation with the COVID-19 medical crisis, local municipalities have had to make some changes. On Monday, March 23 Town of Tofield Mayor Debora Dueck issued a public statement. “Since the onset of the COVID -19 pandemic, the thoughts, view and approach from the perspective of Mayor and Council has not changed. The health, safety and well being of Tofields residents is of paramount importance. In order to ensure the aforementioned is being adhered to, Mayor and Council can not stress enough the extreme importance of the Provincial guidelines.

These guidelines state; Social Distancing, not gathering in groups, staying home to self isolate when not feeling well, and performing self isolation upon returning from travel. Of great concern is the last piece. Collectively, we have became aware of people not following the necessity to self isolate. This is providing a danger to our community. This creates a potential spread to the community through ignorance and a cavalier approach. Tofield, as with many communities across the country have vulnerable individuals and an approach of not following Provincial guidelines puts these people at high risk. Sentiments can not be stated more pas-

sionately, follow the Provincial guidelines. This pandemic is larger than anyone of us individually. The success, health and longevity of our community and residents lies with each of our approaches during this very challenging time.” Finally, I have heard reports of community members not self isolating upon return from travel. I have heard of people accessing grocery stores and other community amenities. This needs to stop, now. The Country is in the midst of a pandemic and what each of us do today can mitigate further spread. Each of us yearns to return to normal, by not following what we have been asked to do, this will not happen. Mayor and Council wish each of you health and patience during this time, and once again, do what we have been asked to do. Tofields success lies in each of your hands and the actions you choose today and in the days to come. In order to minimize and mitigate risk to the Town of Tofield staff, patrons and visitors, the Town of Tofield’s Administration, FCSS and Operations offices in Tofield will be closed to the public effective 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, indefinitely. Town operations will continue unimpeded through this closure, and all public are asked to please phone or email the Town at 780-662-3269 OR adminclerk@tofieldalberta.ca should you be seeking the contact information for a specific individual, we invite you to access the Town’s website at: www.tofieldalberta.ca. Through this time we encourage you as residents to visit our social media pages, or as aforementioned the Town website.

TOWN OF VEGREVILLE

LEASE OF MUNICIPAL LANDS The Town of Vegreville hereby invites offers to lease farmlands owned by the Town of Vegreville for a 5-year term as follows: Parcel #1 Part of NW-21-52-14-W4M Approximately 46 acres of grassland

Parcel #3 ER4574KS LOT A PLAN 772-1992 Approximately 11 acres of grassland

Parcel #2 BLOCK 2 PLAN 782-1883 Approximately 86 acres of grassland

Parcel #4 NW19-52-14-W4M Approximately 84 acres of grassland

Proposals shall be prepared and considered in accordance with the following general conditions: • • •

• • •

Proposals will contain the name and address of the proposed tenant(s); Proposals will clearly state the gross rent offered, as well as the parcel(s) of land to be leased; The Town may, in its complete and unfettered discretion, consider any proposals on the basis of criteria other than price and reserves the right to select a proposal and negotiate a binding agreement on the basis of what the Town considers to be in the best interest of the Town; Any lease of lands noted above shall be evidences by, and completed on, the basis of the Town’s standard lease agreement executed by parties; This is not an invitation for tenders, proposals are not required to be irrevocable, and any proposal submitted shall not bind the parties unless or until the parties negotiate and execute a contract; and Proposals shall be accepted until noon on April 15, 2020.

Please note that lessees will be responsible for all taxes associated with the leased lands, including property taxes. For more information please call the Corporate Services Director at 780-632-3149. A copy of the Town’s standard farm lease agreement and map of the locations will be available upon request. All proposals inquiries should be directed to the Town of Vegreville at the following address: Town of Vegreville Attention: Paul Casey PO Box 640, 4829-50 Street Vegreville AB, T9C 1R7

The Town of Two Hills has posted a notice and press release on its website stating, “The Town of Two Hills is working with our Healthcare partners at AHS, to insure that Two Hills is as prepared as is reasonably possible in light of the fast-moving events with this COVID19 pandemic. We will make necessary announcements as the situation dictates, and based on the best medical advice that is available to the town. We are aware of a positive case in Vegreville and will take any local action in conjunction with advice from AHS. In the meanwhile, please visit the Alberta Health Services website at the link below https:// www.alberta.ca/coronavirus info for albertans.aspx#toc 3 Residents who need to pay utility bills can do so at the ATB. Bill can also be mailed or paid through online banking. All essential services will continue to be provided and public works staff are working on a rotational basis. The swimming pool has been closed temporarily. The next council meeting is slated for March 31 and will be conducted via video conferencing, stated CAO Gerren Saskiw. All committee meetings have been postponed. The Town of Mundare has closed the library and bowling lanes. CAO Colin Zyla said public works will be minimizing contact with the public and closely monitoring the situation and will make changes if required. All essential services continue to operate, and a contingency plan is in place if staff become ill. The town office has been closed to the public, but the phone lines are still open. Utility bills can be paid in cash at the ATB, through online banking, e-transfers, and preauthorized payments. Bills can also be mailed through Canada Post. “There are no confirmed cases of COVID_19 cases in Mundare at the moment,” stated Zyla. As posted on the Town of Lamont’s website: “Public access to administration and public works buildings have been closed. All recreational facilities in the Town of Lamont have been suspended. The temporary closure includes the Lamont Recreation Centre, the Lamont Curling Club, and the Lamont Public Library. Essential services, (curbside collection, utility services, and emergency services) remain operational.” Town of Viking Mayor Jason Ritchie posted a letter to Viking residents on March 17 stating the administration and public works building would be closed indefinitely. “Town operations will continue unimpeded through this closure, and all public are asked to please phone or email the Town at 780-336-3466 or info.account@viking.ca should you be seeking the contact information for a specific individual, we invite you to access the town’s website at: www.viking.ca. Through this time we encourage you as residents to visit our social media pages, or as aforementioned the Town website. Please note; payments to the Town can be made: via online banking or at your banking institution, by mailing a cheque or calling the administration office to make payment arrangements. “These times are unprecedented and ever-evolving. The best interests of our staff and our community are placed at the heart of this decision. We apologize for any inconvenience during this time. Mayor, Council and staff wish each of health during this time of uncertainty.”

march 25 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

News Advertiser PAGE 15

River Revival to Breathe New Life into Local Ecosystem Michelle Pinon something good for the kids and the community. Watershed News Advertiser and College will give a presentation ahead of time,” Phillips There’s a new movement afoot that will not only make a said. lasting impression but will create a new environmental footLakeland College environmental sciences program stuprint along the dents will be doing Vermilion River. water sampling It’s called the Two along the Vermilion Hills River Revival, a River, and the trade special project that school in New will bring into exisMyrnam CTEC will tence an Eco-buffer be designing an along the Vermilion energy-efficient River in Two Hills. watering system with The initiative has their horticulture generated a lot of class. excitement, but com“AWES will be pletion of the project designing the tree will hinge on several plan and there’ll be factors given the cureducational pieces County of Two Hills Agricultural Fieldman Eldon Kozak, left, and County of Two Hills rent situation with Councillor Murray Phillips are happy to be a part of the proposed eco-buffer project. for the kids that day. COVID-19. They’ll be planting As far as the scope of the project. It’s a collaboration with 800 trees on the site,” said Phillips. The planting and learndifferent partners including: the Vermilion River Watershed ing event was tentatively slated for the end of May. “Some Alliance, (VRWA), Agroforestry and Woodlot Extension people could be planting and some people learning. We’re Society, (AWES), the North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance, going to have a barbecue that day for the kids.” (NSWA),the County of Two Hills, and the Town of Two Hills “We kind of wanted to make it an educational part of the who will be planting the EcoBuffer along the Vermilion River curriculum and hands-on so the students take some ownerto serve as a demonstration site and to help improve the quality of the water. “There’s a lot of partners involved,” says Murray Phillips, a councillor with the County of Two Hills. “The cool part of this project is its kind of getting us involved with the schools,” said Eldon Kozak, Agricultural Fieldman for the County of Two Hills. The schools that will be involved with the project include: Two Hills School, Two Hills Mennonite School and the New Myrnam School. “We didn’t even have to finish our sales pitch to the schools and they were committed. So that tells you we are doing

FAMILY BUILT. FAMILY BACKED. Serving Western Canada for Over 20 Years!

‘SUPERIOR’ FOUNDATION SYSTEMS ENGINEERED | ENERGY EFFICIENT | PRE-CAST CEMENT

POST FRAME - STUD FRAME - PRECAST Shops | Barns | Riding Arenas | Machine storage

780-603-5095

ship of the plan. Getting kids involved in a project likes this kind involves agriculture as well as the ecobuffer and pull in some of those things that we don’t know that are running into the stream. The eco buffer is going to be a filter for the river. That’s our hope the more vegetation we have along the creeks and rivers the more contaminants can filter out before they reach the water stream. It sounds simple but the reason behind it isn’t. You think water is pretty simple until you thinking about where it comes from where it travels how to manage it. They haven’t come up with a way we can’t live without clean sustainable water yet. No matter what you do, whether you live in a town or in the country on an acreage or in the city without clean water we’re in great trouble,” noted Kozak. You think water is pretty simple until

River Revival - CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

PAGE 16

News Advertiser

march 25, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Panic Buying Creates Shortages Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Even though it’s business as usual, it’s not quite usual, as shoppers continue to amass larger quantities of food in response to COVID-19. Early Friday morning, (March 20), inside Adam’s No Frills in Vegreville nearly every shopping cart contained a mega pack of toilet paper. The limit was one per customer. Posted inside the entrance of WalMart was a security guard keeping an eye on customers who came and went about their shopping. Glen McLay, General Manager of the Vegreville & District Co-op, said panic buying began March 12. Even though the store has always had limits on items, McLay said people began buying larger than normal volumes of food, creating shortages in some products. One recent example, noted McLay, came when staff was unloading packages of meat and didn’t have a chance to put meat in the cooler because customers began grabbing the packages. Flour is another food

staple that has been snatched up quickly by shoppers. “If people bought their normal purchases there would be enough for everybody,” stated McLay. “It’s not a supply issue it’s a trucking issue,” explained McLay. As stores continue to order more products, warehouse employees are working longer hours and truckers are having to make more deliveries in a shorter amount of time because shoppers continue to hoard supplies. “Nobody realizes how important truckers are. But truckers can’t drive 24 hours a day and they need to take breaks.” In an effort to assist truckers, McLay said they have been accepting deliveries outside of normal business hours. Some grocery stores have started to open an hour earlier to accommodate seniors and the disabled. McLay said they continue operating during normal business hours. The Co-op has always offered a delivery service for customers. Generally, the store makes six deliveries a week, but because of the health crisis, has doubled that number. McLay said his main message is for people to stop hoarding and start sharing with each other. Adam’s No Frills has begun opening an hour earlier on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 8-9 a.m., to allow seniors and the disabled to shop. As stated on its website: “No Frills is a chain of deep discount supermarkets in Canada, with over 200 franchise stores located in nine Canadian provinces. No Frills has thousands of products to choose from, including fresh produce, meat and the very popular President’s Choice, as well as no name line of products.” On the No Frills Facebook page, it stated: “To meet ongoing demand in our stores and our distribution centres we are looking to hire temporary staff.” Galen G. Weston, Loblaws CEO released a statement following the announcement of the Canadian boarders closing amid the spread of COVID19. “Those of you who went shopping recently would have seen extraordinary numbers of people in stores, long lines and aisles of empty product. This was a result of extreme buying, millions of Canadians stocked up on their kitchens and medicine cabinets. Weston also reassured customers they were not running out of food or essential supplies and their supply chain and store teams were responding quickly. He also said they would not raise a single price on any item to take advantage of COVID-19. Horacio Barbeito, Walmart Canada’s president and CEO, provided an update

on the status of its stores on March 20. Barbeito stated: “Our stores will remain open. We’re working with all levels of government to ensure grocers and pharmacies will be there for Canadian families. We’ll dedicate the opening hour of stores exclusively for seniors, the disabled and those with vulnerable health conditions. There’s plenty of food and supplies. Our teams are working around the clock to replenish our shelves to deal with demand. To manage supply, some stores are limiting quantities per customer to ensure there are more products available for more customers. Pickup and delivery demand is high. To help Canadians self-isolate, we’ve made changes to Walmart.ca to allow grocery home deliveries to be left at their door. Walmart Canada is hiring. We want to immediately hire 10,000 more associates in our stores and distribution centres.” Galen G. Weston, Loblaws CEO released a statement following the announcement of the Canadian boarders closing amid the spread of COVID19. “Those of you who went shopping recently would have seen extraordinary numbers of people in stores, long lines and aisles of empty product. This was a result of extreme buying, millions of Canadians stocked up on their kitchens and medicine cabinets. Weston also reassured customers they were not running out of food or essential supplies and their supply chain and store teams were responding quickly. He also said they would not raise a single price on any item to take advantage of COVID-19.

Stop Freaking Out - CONTINUED from PAGE 4 peanut butter. Their KD factory is going 24/7 now to catch up with demand. Does the virus create strange cravings? Our Kraft dinner, various pasta, and

toilet paper are all made in Canada. If things get REALLY bad there is even a brand of Ramen noodles that is made in the US. We are all set. No reason to lose your mind. Go ahead and lick all the doorknobs you want. But think about your parents or grandparents who are more susceptible. We are in this for at least four weeks. That’s an optimistic estimate. After that, we may need to look at another four weeks. Take it one day at a time

then one week will pass, then four weeks. Stop freaking out. Look up at the blue sky or at the stars and take a deep breath. We will get through this. Remember... how you act affects MY health. Act as if you are infected. We will all be better for it. To lighten things up a little, one of our staff members suggested COVID predictions. The first one... in 9 - 12 months from now.... a baby boom as a result of all the isolation. Send us your ideas! Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com

march 25 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

News Advertiser PAGE 17

Saints Finish With Silver P. Varga Saint Mary’s Catholic School

St. Mary’s junior high boys’ basketball team ended their year by playing in the Elk Island Public Schools Small School Championship game. Played in Fort Saskatchewan at Andre

Bessette High School, the game involved numerous lead changes and was a basket for basket battle. The game’s outcome was in doubt until the dying seconds. The final score was Cardinals 49 and Saints 48. Coach Varga commented that he

was very proud of all his players. “They worked hard all season with an overall win-loss record of 13-10, with three tournament final appearances. The Saints had to compete against full squad teams of all Grade 9 players with their mixed roster of Grade 7, 8

Members of St. Mary’s junior high boys’ basketball team finished off their season with silver after an exciting final game in Fort Saskatchewan recently.

Correction In the article ‘COVID-19 Hits Home’ that was published in the March 18 edition, Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee stated that Vegreville Senior Housing and Homestead Lodge were all shut down. Only Homestead Lodge was in a state of lockdown.

and 9. Clearly evident was that the boys’ learned and progressed with their skills throughout the season. I truly hope that they all gained a love for the game!”

PAGE 18

News Advertiser

march 25, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

MR. CLASSIFIED

Call toll free from anywhere in Alberta

1.800.522.4127 or fax to 780.632.7981

Ask the Guys Dear Classified Guys, I thought I understood people. After all, we're generally the same. We all get up in the morning and put our pants on one leg at a time. But when it comes to yard sales, maybe everyone isn't as similar as I thought. I live in a unique area. Scattered among the average size homes in my town are huge mansion-type houses owned by more affluent people. Being a dedicated yard sale shopper, I've noticed that those living in the average size homes typically host all the yard sales. I have yet to see any of these mansion-styles have a yard sale. While I understand they may have more room, their space must fill up with stuff like the rest of us. Doesn't everyone end up collecting clothes the kids outgrew or things they just don't need anymore? Please help me to understand. Is my train of thought wrong or are these people doing something different that the rest of us don't know about?

• • • Cash: While the size of everyone's home may vary, there is one thing that stays constant: The amount of stuff we collect is pro-

Duane “Cash” Holze & Todd “Carry” Holze 03/22/20 03/23/14 ©The Classified Guys®

portionate to the amount of space we have! Carry: It would be great to tell you that your neighbors have some magic secret, but that's probably not the case. In fact, most of us are guilty of storing things we don't use regardless of how much money we have. Just think of how many people you know with a dusty piece of exercise equipment! Cash: There could be any number of reasons for the trend you see in your neighborhood. It could be as simple as the number of average homes far outweighs the number of large ones in your area. Therefore, it simply appears that all of the yard sales are held at the smaller houses. Carry: The size of one's house

doesn't necessarily represent the person's wealth. It typically just means a larger mortgage! It may be that those people are working longer hours to pay for their home and have little time to hold a yard sale. Cash: Also, remember that everyone thinks differently about possessions. While you may love shopping yard sales for a deal or holding one yourself to make some extra cash, others feel differently. They may choose to throw their items away or give them to a charity. Carry: In any case, you're probably better off with the yard sales at the average size homes. Those with less room to store things may be more negotiable on price!

Fast Facts Black Tie Event

Reader Humor Unique Opportunity

Many of us wear our clothing until it's worn out or it doesn't fit. However, if you're a celebrity wearing an outfit on the red carpet, wearing it once is enough! And if you can't have a yard sale, then how do you clean out your closet? Donate it, of course. More and more celebrity outfits are showing up at auctions with the proceeds going to charity. Many non-profit organizations collect and auction the hottest celebrity attire and donate the proceeds to a variety of children's charities.

When my sister and I held a yard sale, our mother brought over some colorful outfits from her closet to sell. We often described her florescent colored pants and shirts as something even Liberace wouldn't wear. Needless to say, we questioned as to whether the outfits would sell. The day was looking rather bleak for Mom as most people passed up the rack of clothes, but then one woman became absolutely delighted with them. She scooped the rack and bought everything. As she came to hand us money, our mom basked in her exuberance. "Don't you just love these colors?" our mom said smirking at us. "Absolutely," the woman replied smiling. "They're just perfect for our clown volunteers at the children's hospital." (Thanks to Annette M.)

Living Large How rich are your neighbors? According to Forbes magazine, there are over 1,400 billionaires in the world. That's a relatively small percentage considering the world's population of over 7 billion people. However, the number of millionaires is much larger. According to recent market research, about 9.6 million of the U.S. population qualify as millionaires, with the average age of them being 58 years old. About 45% of all those millionaires are retired. • • •

Laughs For Sale

Here's a "Junk in the Trunk" sale for women.

Y EVENT COMMUNIT unk Sale, Tr Hunk in the emorial Park M Sat & Sun @ 9 am - 4 pm. . ld ie F ll Ba

Do you have a question or funny story about the classifieds? Want to just give us your opinion? Email us at: comments@classifiedguys.com.

www.ClassifiedGuys.com COMMERCIAL

APARTMENTS Adult Only Buildings at 5310-46 St and 4917 – 61 Ave in Vegreville. Bachelor, 1 & 2 bdrm suites available for application and viewing. Rent incl. Water, heat and Energized pkg stall. Call 780-918-6328 Willowbrook 3 bedroom, 1 bath townhouse for rent April 1st. Nice neighbors, fenced yard, ample parking and is directly south of A.L. Horton School. Rent is $875.00. For additional information and to view this unit, please contact or Murray at (780) 603-7772 or Linda at (587) 280-1727. NS/NP Arlington Place – 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom suite available. Very clean suites, quiet building, respectful tenants, and laundry on each floor. Rent is $725.00 to $775.00 and includes heat, water. NS/NP. Contact Murray at (780) 603-7772, or Linda at (587) 2801727.

AUTOMOBILES

For Rent: Main Street Vegreville store front. 3900+ sq. ft. Landlord, motivated. Phone or text 780-632-0480 Commercial Building in Andrew, AB. 5113-50 Street on Highway 855. Has 3 bays with overhead doors. Located on 2 lots. For viewing call Edna 780656-5501

COMPUTERS VM SYSTEMS Looking for a new computer? VM SYSTEMS has all you’ll ever need in computers! Installation – Sales – Service – Internet. One call will get you in touch. Phone 780-632-2859 9am – 5pm.

1997 Honda Civic. 4 door 135,054kms. Runs good. Needs brake job. As is. 780-632-2608 2008 Dodge Calibar. Automatic. Loaded. 150,000 Kms. Clean. $5200. 780-994-3005 2002 Honda Civic, Standard Drives Excellent Needs TLC $3200 780-9225999 Rare Super Charged 40th Anniversary Grand Prix. Loaded. $4700. Phone 780-994-3005 2010 damaged Dodge Caliber 125,000kms. Drives excellent. For parts. $1500. Phone 780-994-3005

Fully furnished an option, one bedroom condo for rent - $625 per month. Dishwasher, washer & dryer, TV, microwave, new hardwood floors, recently painted. N/S N/P. Parking available with plug-in. Must see! Contact Jeff at 780-657-2934

2005 Mercedes Smart Car diesel, automatic, black, 192,000kms, $3900. 780-994-3005.

EDUCATION AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Get FAA approved hands on Aviation mechan-

ic training. Financial Aid for qualified students - Career placement assis-

tance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888-686-1704

FEED Wanted. Oats, Peas, Wheat, Barley, Canola:

Dry,

Wet,

Heated.

AlbertaFeedGrain.com 1-888-4838789

For Sale: 300 Hay Bales. $55/bale 780-657-3481

FOOD For Sale: Primrose Lake fish: Whites, Jacks & Pickerel. Whole fish & fillets. Smoked White fish. PH: 780-8083826

HEALTH & FITNESS VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 100 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Espanol.

LIVESTOCK Salers bulls for sale. Red, black & tan. Very Quiet. Semen tested and delivered. Scattered spruce salers. PH: 780-768-2284 Yearling and Two Year Old Registered Red & Black Angus Bulls. Semen Tested. Brownalta Farms. 780-603-4882 For Sale Polled Limousin Bulls. Halter Broke & Semen tested. Contact Barry McCarty 780-6327433

BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work… You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 866-951-7214

2000 Dodge Dakota V8, 4x4, farm truck. $1600. 780-922-5999 2002 GMC 4x4 HD ¾ ton Service Truck 340k $3500 780-922-5999 1997 Ford 7.3 Diesel, 4 x 4, missing transmission. Nice deck, $2800. 780922-5999

The News Advertiser can help you

2004 Chev 4 x 4, new t/case, canopy, $3200. PH: 780-994-3005

print work needs:

2002 F250 Crew cab, 7.3 diesel. Loaded. 410,000kms. $6500 PH: 780994-3005

with your personal and commercial business cards, invoices, envelopes, posters and much more.

Phone: 780-632-2861 or email

UPCOMING

jobsubmit@newsadvertiser.com

PATHFINDER HALL

REAL ESTATE

GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 100 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaran-

Pathfinder Hall Silent & Live Auction Perogy

teed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-889-5515

due to the AHS ban on large gath-

bungalow.

erings. For more info: 780-366-2356

$150k.

2016 Thor Ace 30.1 Motorhome.

3 Bdrm Mobile Home, N/P PH: 780208-9608

kms. Ford HDF Series “450” 6.8L-V10

Class A motorhome with very low Engine, 40,380kms. Comes with

Cummins Onan 4000 Generator. Auto-electric levelling jacks. Also

available: ACME (EZE-Tow) Dolly. Ph: 780-385-0373

TO GIVE AWAY

MISC.

5 young cats. Born last July. 780721-3181

in the NANI Network! For more nani

been

POSTPONED until further notice

New 3 bdrm duplex Vegreville. $685/mo. Call 780-275-0089. New developments.

information go to www.afcp.org/

has

for

to-own contract. Looking for 2-3 br.

wide with one easy, affordable buy

2020

with monthly payments under rent-

rental property here

Reach millions of homes nation-

28,

Scheduled

Can’t sell your house? Get full value

for as little as $7.95 per week!

For Rent in Vegreville. 2 bedroom house, 1½ baths, 5 appliances, 3 decks, 2 patio doors, fenced, shed. Many updates of siding, windows, flooring, kitchen & bathrooms. Available May 1st. Prefer no pets. $800/mo plus utilities. 780-9044125

Supper

March

Immediately. 587-926-5631

Advertise your

Near Aquatic Center in Vegreville. Approx 450 Sq Ft., 1 bedroom, fully renovated, kitchen appliances, washer/dryer, soaker tub. NS, NP. $600/m + utilities. Same DD. References required. Call or text 780-632-0480

2004 Dodge Dakota 4x4 loaded, superb condition. Low km. $6,500. 780-632-3527.

PRINTING

For Sale - 1 year old free-run, brown laying hens. $2.00 each. Pick up near Two Hills April 11th & 18th. Call 780-603-9047

HOMES FOR RENT

CONDO

2000 Windstar. Ex. engine & transmission. Body damage. For parts $750. 780-922-5999

For Sale - Small square hay bales, grass mix, 60-65 lb. average. Bales are shedded. $7.00 780-632-1061

TRUCKS

!! OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON,

FENDER, MARTIN, Etc. 1930’s to

1993 Chev 4x4 Ext Cab. For parts. $650. 780-922-5999

1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433- 8277

2006 Ford 4x4 Crew Cab. New tires. $4600. 780-994-3005

or 780-763-2179

WANTED Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 ADVERTISE to 10 Million Homes across the USA! Place your ad in over 140 community newspapers, with circulation totaling over 10 million homes. Contact Independent Free Papers of America IFPA at danielleburnett-ifpa@live.com or visit our website cadnetads.com for more information

march 25 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

News Advertiser PAGE 19

Sunshine Club Annual General Meeting Rosanne Fortier which we have done. We had to priori- Facilities Committee, Catering front of the building, and giving our News Correspondent tize our needs. We had a few issues last Committee, Entertainment Committee, street sign a face lift. Most of this work The Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of year where we discovered there were Education Committee, Member was done by member donations or volVegreville held its Annual unteer labour. We plan to General Meeting (AGM) upgrade our heating system recently. this summer with the help of a The Sunshine Club currently Federal funding grant. has 140 members. Over 50 of At our AGM, we passed a its members participate on a Special Resolution to revise weekly basis, 46 of which our by-laws to include an attended the AGM on Feb.26. Associate Member with full President Dwayne Hlady, benefits between the ages of 40 chaired the meeting which and the regular member minibegan with the singing of mum age is 50. At the AGM, O’Canada and was followed by We also held our annual elecone minute of silence in respect tions. We have four Executive for departed members. positions and 10 Director posiAfter this, members were tions which are elected on a asked to read the club’s vision rotating cycle to ensure contistatement which is as follows: nuity from year to year, stated “The Senior Citizens Sunshine Harfield. Club is a welcoming, involved The following positions were The Sunshine Club Executive in photo from left to right are Marlene Roth, Vice-President, Dwayne Hlady, and valued community memnewly elected: Secretary (3 year President, and Don Harfield, Treasurer. (Rosanne Fortier/photo) ber meeting a variety of seniors’ term)-Mary Ryan, Directors (2 needs and interests in a safe, year term) Marion Baxandall, accessible and fun atmosphere.” The leaks in the roof. We went in and got Activities, Community Input Committee Al Belzile, Bob Carter, Carol Larrivee club is a registered charity offering an that sealed and are keeping an eye on (Strategic Plan Status) and Grant and Rita Smyth. Continuing positions enjoyable gathering place for seniors, it. Our building is on a 50 year lease Funding Committee. on the Board are: President Dwayne families and friends through a variety with the town so we have to start thinkTreasurer Don Harfield said the Senior Hlady, Vice-President, Marlene Roth, of activities in a welcoming atmosphere. ing ahead about 16 years and start Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville is a Treasurer, Don Harfield, DirectorsDwayne Hlady then presented his planning for this. As well, I am proud volunteer run not-for-profit registered Annie Arnott, Robert Hoyteniuk, Stacy report. He said it had been an interest- that people are starting to work togeth- charitable organization. Mynzak, Anne Soldan and Anna ing and good year. Their facility is get- er here because if you work together, it “This has been a busy year for making Tomyn.” ting older and it needs loving care and is easier than having everyone off doing improvements to the building including attention. “This year our insurance their own thing.” upgrading our outdoor lights, replacwent up so we had to do some looking Brief reports were given from the ing our rear double doors, roofing around and do some price checking chairpersons of the By-Law Committee, maintenance, landscaping outside the

River Revival - CONTINUED from PAGE 15 you thinking about where it comes from where it travels how to manage it. They haven’t come up with a way we can’t live without clean sustainable water yet. No matter what you do, whether you live in a town or in the country on an acreage or in the city without clean water we’re in great trouble,” pointed out Kozak. “The Vermilion Watershed Alliance Kind of focuses on the whole system and its sustainability who it benefits up and downstream wherever you’re at along it so that’s a balancing act in and of itself. Who it might benefit some affect others and this is just education for the kids because they are being removed from the farms a little bit. A hands-on approach is our goal, and the wealth and health of the watershed. We’ll start this off in year one and see how big it goes. Essentially, we’re trying to get kids to think outside the book,” explained Phillips. The project will merge agriculture

and the environment. It will also give students a positive hands-on education. “The outcomes will be positive no mat-

ter what happens because of the partnerships,” Kozak said.

PAGE 20

News Advertiser

march 25, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Tributes MEMORIAM

MEMORIAM

OBITUARY

To a special Brother, Brother-in-law, Uncle, Great-Uncle MELENKA, Victor Who passed away March 10, 1997

To a special Sister, Sister-in-law, Aunt, Great Aunt Laura (nee MELENKA) MELNYK Who passed away April 13, 2016

PRICE, Gerald Elwood GERALD ELWOOD PRICE passed away on February 24, 2020 at the age of 76 after an extended period of declining health. He most recently resided at the Mary Immaculate Care Centre in Mundare, Alberta. Gerald was born June 13, 1943 in Battleford Sask. to George and Mable (Hartman) Price. Most of his early adult life was spent in Edmonton other than a period in Huntsville, Ontario. His later years were in Vegreville and surrounding communities. Gerald worked a number of years at the Edmonton SPCA animal shelter, many more years as an owner / operator CO OP taxi driver (where many tall yarns were spun) and in later years as a security guard in Vegreville. His main interests were western music and concerts, cats, dogs, bingo, flea markets, garage sales and shopping for STUFF at Uncle Wally’s (Walmart). Gerald is survived by his daughter Tammy Baumhour (George), his sister Dorothy Blacklock (Jerry), his brother Don (Sarah), his Aunt Caroline Olson and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by both parents. Special thanks are given to the staff at Mary Immaculate Care Centre in Mundare, Homestead Lodge in Vegreville and Autumn Rose Funeral Home in Vegreville. A memorial service may be held later this year in Vegreville when COVID 19 restrictions are lifted.

FREBROWSKI, Mary April 5, 1922 – March 18, 2020 It is with deep sadness, the family announces the passing of Mary Frebrowski of Mundare, Alberta on Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at the age of 97 years. Mary is survived by her loving family, one daughter Lorraine (Robert) Dunning; ten grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one son-in-law; two brothers; one sister; along with numerous relatives and friends. Mary was predeceased by her husband Carl; son Eugene; two daughters Marcella and Joyce; parents Nick and Katherine Holyk. A Private Liturgy of The Word was held on Monday, March 23, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church – Mundare with Father Luan Vu as the Celebrant. Interment followed in St. Anthony’s Cemetery at Haight. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Autumn Rose Funeral Home Ltd., Vegreville

And a special Father, Father-in-law, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather and Great-Great-Grandfather MELENKA, Alex Who passed away April 29, 1991

To a special Brother, Brother-in-law, Uncle, Great-Uncle MELENKA, William Who passed away March 28, 2016

MELENKA, William In loving memory of a Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather Who passed away March 28, 2016 Goodbyes are not forever They are not the end. They simply mean We will miss you Until we meet again. Sadly missed and forever loved. Forever in our hearts. Memory Eternal! Julie, Sons Willie & Connie; Martin Grandchildren, Willie & Courtney; Conlynn & Kayla; Cassie Anne; Leah-Marie; Darren Great-Grandson Taelynn & Great-Granddaughter Hayley

SHEWCHUK, A. Wesley April 4, 1942 – March 29, 2019 He never looked for praise. He was never one to boast. He just went on quietly working, For the ones he loved 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. You will never be forgotten. We’re reminded of you every day. With the love and strength you gave us, Before you went away. One of our greatest blessings, The man we called My Husband, Our Dad, Our Gido. Helen, Children and Grandchildren Memory Eternal.

It broke our hearts to lose you, You all left us with special memories Your love is still our guide. Lovingly remembered and sadly missed. Until we meet again The Melenka Family

OBITUARY

MILLER, Allen P. On March 21, 2020 Allen P. Miller of Vermilion passed away at the age of 55 years. Allen is survived by his wife, Joanne; two daughters, Charlene Vince and Shirley Kercher (Trenton); six grandchildren; siblings, Connie (Stoney), Colleen (Wade), Gerald (Kristie) and Robin; also numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Predeceased by his parents, Aline and Leonard; and brother, Lenard. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Donations in memory of Allen may be to Alberta Cancer Foundation. Photos, memories and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com PARK MEMORIAL LTD. VEGREVILLE 780-632-2000

LASTIWKA, Pearl June 5, 1928 – March 22, 2020 Mrs. Pearl Lastiwka of Edmonton, Alberta formerly of Andrew, passed away at the age of 91 years, on Sunday, March 22, 2020. She will always be remembered for her gracious and endless caring, and tireless efforts in treating everyone she met. She will be sadly missed by family and friends. Pearl is survived by sons and daughters Dennis (June), Sonia (Dave), Ronnie (Kathy), Gladys (Bill), Barry, Jim (JoAnn), Bernie (Sherry), Carrie; 14 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; sister Sophie St. Onge; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Pearl was predeceased by her husband (Steve); father and mother Stefan & Maria Worobets; brothers Mike, Bill, Nick, John, Peter, Alexander; and sisters Kate, Ann, Colleen, Helen. In compliance with current requirements for social separation and restricted congregating, no public gathering will be held. A Funeral Service (closed to only immediate family members and personal invites) will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. with Father Colin Berglund officiating at Autumn Rose Funeral Home in Vegreville, AB. Interment to follow in the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church Cemetery at Sunland. A celebration of life will be arranged in the future when pandemic restrictions are lifted. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church of Sunland. To send condolences, or to join the family for the listed service which will be streamed live, please visit www. autumnrosefuneralhome.com AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. VEGREVILLE, 780-603-5800

Library Offering Temporary Free Memberships Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Libraries are a source of so much valuable information. Even though they are closed to the public because of the COVID-19 pandemic, they have found alternate ways of delivering services to patrons. The Vegreville Centennial Library is no exception. Library Manager Donna Williams said the board voted in favour of offering temporary free memberships to residents of the Town of Vegreville and the County of Minburn last Wednesday. “We endeavor to get the membership processed and email their barcode and password in approximately 24 hours during the work week. If an individual doesn’t live in these areas they can go to the Northern Lights Website and fill out the membership form there and still get one.” Williams went onto say, “With these free memberships it allows patrons to access our amazing e-resources. This is one way we can continue to deliver services to our residents while the physical library is closed to the public.” Some of the e-resources include: books, videos, movies, sound recordings, large print, novels, Canadian news publications, streaming service, consumer reports, resume service, language learning, education and curricu-

lum-based resources for students and teachers, home improvement, fitness, hobbies and crafts, auto repair, ancestry, and more. Feedback has been extremely positive to date, said Williams. “So far I’ve heard that citizens are thankful that we are providing the service and I’ve heard that some adults are taking advantage of it to access the e-resources specifically targeted to students, such as Solaro and Tumblebooks as well as e-books to keep kids reading.” To date, the library has issued 20 temporary memberships. “We will continue to offer the memberships until such time as we are open again or we need to re-evaluate based on information from the government stating that we will be closed longer than June 30.” Residents who would like a temporary free membership are to go to the library’s website: www.vegrevillelibrary.ab.ca/temporary-freemembership People who reside outside the jurisdiction can go to: www.nlls.ab.ca

march 25 2020

CARD OF THANKS

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Words of Advice

TEBBUTT The family of the late Rose Tebbutt would like to thank everyone for the sympathy cards, e-mails, flowers, and food platters sent during this difficult time. Rev. Milton for her kind words of comfort, organist, choir, and audio for the beautiful music. The lunch provided by Cindy and helpers of the Ladies Auxiliary. Thanks for all donations to Vegreville Ladies Auxiliary and Patients Comfort Society of Vegreville Care Centre. Thank you to Autumn Rose for their caring and professionalism. Thank you to everyone attending for your support. And a special thank you to the kind and caring souls of the Vegreville Care Centre that looked after Rosie during her stay there. The Family of Rose Tebbutt

KUCHER, William (Bill) On behalf of the family of Bill Kucher we would like to thank everyone for the flowers, cards and support during our difficult time. Thank you to Autumn Rose Funeral Home for their assistance and professionalism facilitating the funeral. Special thanks to the St. Joseph’s Hospital staff for their care and concern during Dad’s stay. Thank you to all who made donations in Dad’s memory. Corey and Cody Anthony, Elaine, Hasanna and Hailey

The Town of Vegreville had a message for residents on its events sign, which is situated along Highway 16 A. The town is asking residents to protect their neighbours. During Mayor Tim MacPhee’s public address on March 19, he asked residents to practice social isolation, only shop when you have to, and to use this time to be a good neighbour. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

News Advertiser PAGE 21

PAGE 22

News Advertiser

march 25, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Vegreville Hospital’s Auxiliary St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon

Some of the kitchen helpers-(Left-to-right) Gladys Palahniuk, Rose Gorda, Betty Hirsch, Marian Lemiski. (Rosanne Fortier/photo)

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent The Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville resembled a field of green on March 12 during the Vegreville Hospital’s Auxiliary St. Patrick’s Day Buffet Luncheon. This luncheon offered a bowl of chili, buns, salads, desserts, tea, coffee, and juice. There was also a raffle with cash prizes, an indoor raffle and door prizes. The purpose of this function was for the Vegreville Hospital’s Auxiliary to get volunteer help and work so they can donate all the money they generated from this event and divide it evenly to give it to St. Joseph’s Hospital, Vegreville Care Centre, Vegreville Transportation Services Society and STARS.

march 25 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

MLA Shares Information and Resources in the Wake of COVID-19 Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk MLA Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville Dear friends, This week has been an incredibly challenging one for us all. I know that many people in the Fort SaskatchewanVegreville riding are struggling to deal with the new realities during the COVID-19 pandemic. As we face these difficult times together, I would like to share some information and resources that are available to support Albertans. Public health officials here in Alberta are working tirelessly to bring up-to-date information on COVID-19 to the public. I highly recommend that you visit alberta. ca/COVID19 for the most up-to-date information, advice, and resources. On Tuesday, our government declared a Public Health State of Emergency. This decision was not taken lightly but will be essential to ensure that officials have the resources and authority to contain the spread of illness. Some of the changes established by the state of emergency include: •Canceling all public events with more than 50 people; •Closing recreational facilities, like rec centres, public libraries, and pools; •Closing private entertainment facilities, like casinos, bars, and bingo halls; and •Reducing sit-down food-serving facilities to 50% of seating capacity. These sweeping measures are necessary to contain COVID-19 in the crucial early days of the pandemic. Our government recognizes that many Albertans are facing the loss of employment due to the ongoing crisis. Beginning the week of March 23, individuals meeting public health requirements to self-isolate or who are the primary caregiver for someone in self-isolation will be able to apply for Emergency

Isolation Support. This fund will provide a one-time payment of $1,146 and will be deposited into bank accounts by the end of the week. This program will provide temporary relief until federal support begins in April. In addition, all Albertans will be able to defer utility bills for their homes, residences, and small businesses for the next 90 days. At this time, no one will be cut off from their electricity or heat. In the difficult weeks to come, our government will continue to put measures in place that support Albertans. Everyone in our province has a part to play in slowing the spread of COVID-19. Public health officials agree that social distancing will save lives in the weeks and months to come. Some ways to practice social distancing include maintaining 2 metres of distance from others, running errands at off-peak times, frequently washing hands, and staying in virtual contact with loved ones. Together, we can seize this critical moment to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect those who are most at risk. We have a challenge ahead of us, but by coming together in our communities we will weather this storm. Sincerely, MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk

Food Establishments - CONTINUED from front page reduced hours. We are on limited staff and limited hours. Please phone the restaurant to make sure when they are open to do this first.” Joanne Velkamp, owner of Dairy Queen, said the restaurant is open at their regular hours for take-out and drive-through orders only. The dining room is closed. “Our business has been

affected because our customer base has definitely gone down because not as many people are driving through town and a lot of others have chosen or been required to stay home. Most of all, I hope COVID-19 doesn’t affect too many people in our community and everyone stays healthy and safe.”

News Advertiser PAGE 23

PAGE 24

News Advertiser

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

march 25, 2020

Vegreville News Advertiser - March 25, 2020

Articles inside

Library Offering Temporary Free Memberships

Sunshine Club Annual General Meeting

Panic Buying Creates Shortages

Local Producers Reaping the Benefits of Hemp

Saints Finish With Silver

Love Themed Drop-In at PLC

Wonderful Winter Fun Rosanne Fortier

Crop Management Network Inc. Upgrades Vegreville Facility to Better Serve Customers

Vegreville Hospital’s Auxiliary St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon

Hairy Hill Farmer Talks About Agriculture Today

MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk Reads to Children at Storytime at the Library

COVID-19 Affects Local Food Establishments

Precautionary Measures Implemented at Homestead Lodge

Battle River School Division Trustees Vote on School Closures and Consolidation Motions