Vegreville News Advertiser - May 22, 2024

WHAT’S INSIDE

Expansion and Renovation Proposal for Homestead Lodge Moving to Next Phase

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

An expansion and renovation proposal for Homestead Lodge in Vegreville is advancing to a new phase as municipal stakeholders all approved to proceed with the plan.

Vegreville Town Councillor and M. D. of Minburn Foundation Chair Jerrold Lemko updated colleagues during the May 13 regular council meeting. Lemko explained that members of the board began looking at expansion of the seniors’ facility last year to include 62 new units.

“That comes at a cost. We’ve had a consultant prepare us to get to the point where we have a project manager and an architect recently hired, and we’re moving forward with this submission which should be in this fall with the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and government funding.”

Lemko said the cost of the proposed expansion and renovation project would be around $31 million in change with the amount of the 10-year fixed CMHC loan pegged at $13.2 million with CMHC forgivable portion of $3.3 million, with provincial government contributing onethird funding of $10 million and municipal equity contributions of $4.7 million.

The one-time municipal equity contribution of $4.7 million is based on the current provincial equalized assessment report. The Town of Vegreville would contribute $1,970,000; the County of Minburn would contribute $2,538,000; the Village of Innisfree would contribute $37,600 and the Village of Mannville would contribute $150,400.

Based on that annual requisition, Lemko said it would amount to $13 per

resident per year. “We’re proceeding forward with this and I believe council is behind us.” He also pointed out that the M.D. of Minburn Foundation was putting out $500,000 of its reserves to put together the application for submission.

Lemko said future lodge residents from Vegreville and surrounding area will need old age spaces and they want to be prepared for that as ‘Baby Boomers’ will be retiring in “magnificent numbers” in the future.

Councillor Tina Warawa mentioned a discussion she had with someone from a neighbouring county about the impending closure of Father Filas Manor in Mundare and there is a lot of concern regarding collection of the seniors’ requisition. She said that even when the facility is closed, residents there will still be paying seniors’ requisition on their taxes.

Warawa also noted that if there is only one lodge operating in the neighbouring county seniors may be coming from other zones to Vegreville. “It might be a bit about responsible planning to have a discussion about that.”

Councillor Taneen Rudyk said there is some differentiation in terms of facilities. For example, which Homestead Lodge is owned and maintained by the M.D. of Minburn Foundation, the facility in Mundare as well as M.D. of Minburn Foundation facilities in the Village of Innisfree and the Village of Mannville are owned by the provincial government. “The province has been notoriously negligent to put any money into those facilities. So, it’s a bit of a challenge because we as foundations end up managing infrastructure pieces that are out of date.”

Mayor Tim MacPhee said there has to

be criteria put in place that priority will be given to Vegreville and surrounding residents when it comes to applying for accommodation at Homestead Lodge.

Lemko stated that, “At the last Foundation meeting all board members agreed a policy would be put in place and reviewed to ensure residents here and county areas will have priority on the rooms here.”

Rudyk also told colleagues that some residents from Father Filas Manor are coming to Homestead Lodge because there is available space and more are expected at the end of the month.

Back on April 2, members of Mundare town council were told privately Father Filas Manor would be closing this December. The Lamont County Housing Foundation, which operates Father Filas Manor issued a news release of the closure on April 10. In a letter that was mailed out to Mundare residents after council’s May 7 meeting, it states that: “Under the Municipal Government Act, information discussed in a closed session cannot be discussed publicly, so council could not talk about the closure of the seniors lodge before any public announcement was made.”

The letter also outlined that the Province of Alberta owns Father Filas Manor and determines whether any renovations are made or new facilities built. “We were advised that the closure was a result of the financial realities of operating the Manor with a low occupancy rate. Please note that the self-contained units will remain open.

Council is disappointed with the closure of the Father Filas Manor, however, the decision was outside of our control.”

Attendees Enjoy Great Fellowship at Perogy Supper

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Over 200 attendees enjoyed mouthwatering Ukrainian food, chicken breast, strawberry trifle, and more at this event on May 11 which had volunteers from St. Vladimir Vegreville, St. John Suchava Andrew, All Saints Camrose Sich Kelomea and All Saints Lloydminster as the hosts.

President of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Orthodox Church Ostap Toroshenko said this was a fundraising event to support all these churches. “We were happy with all the help we received from the volunteers and we are very grateful for the support from Vegreville and the larger community.”

Afterwards, attendee Carol Paul expressed that the meal was fabulous!

L-R: Father Slawomir Lomaszkiewicz and his wife Iryna, Fiona Sorochan, Phyllis Horne, Louie Marvitis, Rob Semotiuk, Terry Baydala, Elsie Tanasiuk. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Mannville Fire Relief Fund Established to Assist Families

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

A devastating residential fire that completely destroyed three homes in Mannville on May 11 has generated an outpouring of support from individuals and organizations in the community who are stepping up to help the families.

The Mannville Fire Relief Fund 2024 has been established and donations are being accepted at Confectionery 881, Mannville Cornerstone Co-op and the Mannville Branch of the Vermilion Credit Union until June 30.

Jim Storch said the community has been awesome in its support to

date and there will be another opportunity to donate during the village-wide garage sale at the gazebo on Main Street on June 1. Val Mytz, board member with McQueen Memorial United Church, said they are in the beginning stages of planning a fundraising barbecue and currently looking for volunteers and donations to assist with the event.

Mytz commented that, “It is great to see that when a disaster happens, how we as a community can come together and help these three families as their lives have literally been turned upside down. My thoughts and prayers go out to them all.”

Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Response

Provides Updated Information

Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk MLA for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville

This past week, we received the sad news that various municipalities in Alberta have been evacuated or placed on evacuation standby due to wildfires. My heart goes out to all those who have been displaced and affected by wildfires. Our government is committed to finding solutions to combat these fires and give Albertans the resources that they need when facing these emergency situations.

We urge all Albertans to utilize caution when in situations where campfires or fire is involved. Last year, 67 percent of wildfires were human caused, so it is our shared responsibility to prevent them. Please be mindful of fire restrictions for your area to ensure the wellbeing of our forests and communities. Our government is committed to finding ways to support and

help Albertans through changing weather conditions. As we go into the summer months, our government has created an Emergency Preparedness, Disaster Response and Public Safety dashboard that Albertans can go to for updated information to stay safe

The Active Communities Initiative is now open to eligible community groups, non-profit organizations and societies, and First Nations and Metis Settlements, that are seeking to build or enhance spaces that support sport and recreation in their communities. This grant is intended for small and medium sized projects, including skating rinks, community pools, indoor pools, sports fields, and other sport and recreational facilities I encourage all those who work or take interest in our provinces agricultural sector to sign up for Agri-News. This public newsletter offers weekly updates on all the latest agriculture updates,

Charred out remains of homes destroyed in the May 11 fire. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

90 Years Ago – May 23, 1934

While the transfer had not yet been effected, it is expected that about the first week in June, Mr. M.L. Gordon, who had been manager of the Canadian Bank of Commerce here for fourteen years will leave for Red Deer to take over the managership at that city. Mr. Gordon will be succeeded in Vegreville by Mr. James Still of Granum.

John Fedorka at Whitford has been losing pigs lately and he suspects that someone has been giving them poison. In order to find out for sure, the stomachs of the dead animals have been sent to Edmonton for analysis.

Dr. A. Couillard presided at the annual graduation exercises of the nurses of the General Hospital training school held in the hospital on Tuesday night.

Some farmers in the New Kiew district have disc harrowed their crop to eradicate wild oats and have re-sown it with one bushel per acre.

Perfect drainage is the most important point in lily growing, and where the soil is heavy or the drainage poor, the soil should be removed for about two feet and some gravel or other suitable material substituted. Course sand and leaf mold should be mixed with heavy soil but no raw manure is required.

75 Years Ago – May 25, 1949

An estimated 11,000 Polish-Canadians will gather at Montreal’s cenotaph in Dominion Square to commemorate the constitution of May 3, 1791, the traditional Polish Day of Freedom.

Imperial Oil Ltd. announced that it has placed orders exceeding $9,000,000 for supplies for the projected pipeline between Edmonton and Regina. The Edmonton – Regina line is the first step in making western oil available over a much wider area, “because large pipelines carry oil in volume at a lower cost than any other means of transportation.

Sharpshooters from No. 287 Squadron of Lamont, have won the Dominion Challenge Trophy, awarded annually to Canada’s top Air Cadet Rifle team. In a countrywide competition, the youthful sharpshooters achieved an average score of 96.21 percent, to wrest the trophy from last year’s winner, No. 330 (Danforth) squadron of Toronto.

After 17 years in the Royal Canadian Navy, Winnipeg-born John Smith decided to take up golf. Today, three years later, he is a fullfledged professional at the Capilano Club in Vancouver.

Ice cream was invented in Italy in the 14th century.

50 Years Ago – May 23, 1974

At an informal gathering held at the RCMP barracks in Vegreville recently, a former member of the force, Cpl. Clarence Miskiw was presented with a Long Service Medal and an accompanying certificate. Mr. Miskiw spent 20 years with the police, retiring last year. Miss Linda Saboe a University of Alberta graduate in Physical Therapy has joined the staff of the Minburn–Eagle Auxiliary Hospital and Nursing Home in Vegreville. Miss Saboe attended the School of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University, graduating in 1970.

The senior ladies’ AGT team from Vegreville won the Northern Alberta First Aid trophy in the St. John’s Ambulance competition held at the NAIT Auditorium on April 27, 1974. Carolynne Zaseybida, who is the captain, and her teammates, Joy Martyniuk, Eileen Yost, Winnie Diachuk, and Teresa Elder, defeated a team from the University of Alberta and a team of Canadian National Railways.

A Royal Alexandra Hospital graduate now working at St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville has been named the Alberta Association of Registered Nurses 1974 Nurse of the Year. Fran Lazarowich, 35, a head obstetrical nurse at the Vegreville Hospital was presented with the Abe Miller Memorial Award at the association’s convention recently held.

25 Years Ago - May 26, 1999

Housing construction in the County of Minburn is getting off to a rapid start this year. “This is going to be a better than average year,” for housing construction said Development/Bylaw Enforcement Officer Ed Wieclaw. There have been a dozen starts in the first four months of this year. That’s the average yearly total.

Vegreville Composite High School teams captured the county championship during a badminton tournament in Sherwood Park. The team consisted of Erin Molsberry, Adam Hiscock, Ashley Melnyk, and Angela Wilson with coaches Simon Senchyshyn and Paul Carabine.

Paul Ryhanen has recently taken over as the retailer for Shell’s gas station on 50th Ave. He welcomed Murray Huculak as a Certified Automotive Reconditioner. Murray recently completed a course in Pro Detailing and will be specializing in vehicle interiors, power polishing, hand waxing, and carpet cleaning.

More than $6,200 was raised by members of the RCMP, Medi-Care ambulance staff, some business owners, and school staff in Andrew, who participated in the Cops for Cancer head shaving.

Vegreville Composite High School Foundation donated a 1998 15-passenger van to the school. The foundation raised money by working at a casino and then received another $12,000 from the Community Lottery Board to make the purchase.

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

Move Over P.E.I. There’s a New King in Town

Arthur Beaudette & AI Assistant News Advertiser – Opinion

Move over P.E.I. Alberta is now the King of Canadian potatoes. For the second time since 2021, Alberta has surpassed P.E.I. for the top producer in Canada of potatoes. Traditionally known for our vast prairies, oil, and natural gas resources, the province has quietly emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the world of spuds. In recent years, Alberta has undergone a remarkable transformation in its potato production landscape.

The Numbers Speak Volumes. According to data from Statistics Canada, Alberta’s potato output has surged, catapulting it to the top spot among Canadian provinces. Let’s break down the numbers:

2022 Triumph: In 2022, Alberta farmers produced an impressive 26.8 million hundredweight (CWT) or 1.36 million tonnes of potatoes.

This achievement marked the second time in three years that Alberta claimed the coveted title of Canada’s top potato-producing province. The average yield per acre stood at 375.9 hundredweight—a testament to the province’s commitment to quality and efficiency.

2023: A New Milestone: Alberta didn’t stop there. In 2023, it achieved an even more remarkable feat. The province’s potato production soared to 32.063 million CWT—a staggering increase from the previous year’s crop of 26.813 million CWT2.

How did Alberta surpass the renowned potato powerhouse, Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.)? Let’s look at the factors behind Alberta’s success.

Several factors have contributed to Alberta’s ascent in the potato world.

Climate and Soil: Alberta’s climate, with ours sunny days and cool nights, provides an ideal environment for potato cultivation. The province’s well-drained soils allow for optimal root development and disease resistance.

Irrigation and Water Management: Despite facing drought conditions in recent years, Alberta’s innovative farmers have harnessed irrigation systems to ensure consistent water supply for their potato crops. Water-efficient practices have been crucial to their success.

Technological Advancements: Alberta’s agricultural sector has embraced cutting-edge technologies. Precision planting, monitoring, and crop management techniques have boosted yields and minimized waste.

Diverse Varieties: Alberta cultivates a wide range of potato varieties, catering to both fresh consumption and processing. From russets to reds, the province’s diverse offerings meet market demands.

Collaboration and Research: Industry collaboration, research partnerships, and knowledge-sharing have played a pivotal role. Alberta’s farmers actively participate in best practices, staying informed about the latest advancements.

Alberta’s potato industry isn’t just about tubers; it’s about economic growth, jobs, and sustainability. The ripple effect extends to transportation, processing, and export markets. As Alberta continues to thrive, its spuds contribute significantly to the province’s prosperity.

In summary, Alberta’s rise to the top of Canada’s potato production pyramid is a testament to innovation, resilience, and hard work. So, the next time you enjoy a plate of crispy fries or a comforting bowl of smashed potatoes, remember that they might just be Alberta-grown!

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

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

- Richard Kluger -

After nearly a year since opening its compositing facility, Claystone Waste sold its first load of compost to Beaver County Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec on May 13. In return, Claystone Waste will donating proceeds from that sale to one of the local food banks. Hrabec will be matching Claystone’s donation and giving it to the other local food bank.

Hrabec commented that, “It was an honour to receive the first load of compost from Claystone Waste, which Beaver County is the largest shareholder. They have worked hard at diversifying their business as the waste stream is changing globally. It had not come without its challenges and some adversity. Municipal governments are also challenged with the shrinking

Green Opportunity Becomes Reality for Claystone Waste

dollar and having Claystone as a municipal corporation definitely ensures that we continue to provide good services to the residents of Beaver County.”

He pointed out that, “Claystone provides over $50,000 to Beaver County in a Community Enhancement Grant for community organizations throughout the whole county.”

The load Hrabec purchased is roughly 1.5 tonnes. He said some of the compost will go in the greenhouse and some in the garden. He noted that the compost will have to be mixed with about one-third to two-thirds of black dirt.

Janet Tecklenborg, Director of Facilities for Claystone Waste, said, “Since opening our state-of-the-art composting facility in Green Opportunity - CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

scientists claim that hydrogen, because it is so plentiful, is the basic building block of the universe. I dispute that. I say there is more stupidity than hydrogen, and that is the basic building block of the universe."

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

From L-R: Beaver County Div. 2 Councillor Lionel Williams, Claystone Director of Facilities Janet Tecklenborg, Beaver County Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec, and Claystone’s Environmental EIT Puneet Jain. (Claystone Waste/Submitted Photo)

Political Neutrality Versus Inclusivity

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Concerns regarding political neutrality in public spaces in the Town of Vegreville was brought forward to council and discussed at its May 13 council meeting.

Three identically worded letters, signed by Miranda Ketchum, Charlotte Holyk and Edie Gegolick, were presented for consideration. Mayor MacPhee recited the letter before responses were made by several councillors.

The, “primary goal” as stated in the letter, “is to ensure that crosswalks, flags or any other public property in the Town of Vegreville remain neutral in their representation.”

The letter went on to state, “Only the federal, provincial and municipal flags should be raised on public flagpoles. Crosswalks should only be painted in standard white striped patterns and decorations or displays supporting political, social, religious movement or commercial entities should be prohibited. This measure aims to safeguard the safety, health and welfare of the community.”

The letter outlined lack of transparency and inclusivity. Additionally, “Public consultation on these issues seems to be non-existent, which has only served to

erode trust in local governance.” Signees also urged town council to revise its decision on certain public spaces that are not currently politically neutral similar to the municipality of Westlock.

On Feb. 23, 2024, residents of that community voted in favour of prohibiting non-governmental flags from being flown on municipal flagpoles and the painting of town crosswalks in any other way than a traditional white-striped pattern. The result of the plebiscite, which by law was automatically triggered by a petition brought forward to council in October 2023.

Coun. David Berry said one of the points in the letter that struck him was that decorations, displays supporting political, social and religious movements or commercial entities should all be prohibited. “That would go directly against the Provincial Elections Act. We are allowed to put out elections signs, that’s political.”

Berry said he’s seen signage for a lot of

other things in town, including perogy suppers, which could be considered religious since churches are putting them up. “So we’ve got to be really careful just where we walk on the slippery slope of what is neutral and what isn’t neutral.” He added, “I think that sometimes we have to give respect to different groups.”

Mayor Tim MacPhee stated that back on May 18, 2021 a group came forward and approached town council with a request to display their pride sidewalk and fly the pride flag. “We had debate on it many times in the previous council, this council, and each year the group kept coming back and asking for this. So, I take very big issue with somebody saying the transparency part; that is not so. Just because you woke up yesterday and decided you didn’t like it, don’t throw this council under the bus that we haven’t discussed it.”

Coun. Taneen Rudyk also took issue with the assertion there was a lack of transparency on the part of council. Rudyk stated, “I think it’s

important for the public to remember that we have a responsibility as elected officials to hold our debate in public, and in fact all of the conversations that we’ve had about this are recorded…the first conversation was held because this happened to coincide with being in the middle of Covid, so our meetings were recorded. So, all debate about this happened in public and is recorded.”

Rudyk also pointed out council’s strategic goal and mission is to “identify that people are our core, innovation is our strength and community is our intention. In order to do the things that we view as important for this council, for this community, and for the future of Vegreville; that means we need to be able to hold our head high and know we are actually living up to the things we promised to do for the electorate.”

She said they were charged to represent everybody that lives in Vegreville and that it’s important to represent all Vegreville residents.

Painted crosswalk adjacent to Vegreville Town Office. (News Advertiser/File Photo)

Strolling Along

Emergency Care

On May 14, 2024, CTV News announced that four Fort McMurray neighbourhoods were ordered to evacu-

ate as a wildfire crept closer to the city. Executive Director for Vegreville Agricultural Society (VAS) and Organizer Russell Crowe said (VAS) is offering the equine department of their (VAS) facility. “We have approximately

70 available stalls and several rings ready for horses. We have three arenas that we can use for this. If people need it, more horses can be stalled for whatever reason and we can set up temporary fencing on the grassy areas to accommodate those horses.

We also extended this offer to anyone in the evacuated areas of Fort McMurray, we have full RV hookups and camping available. We know there might not be a lot of places for people to go to.”

Crowe mentioned that on May 14, someone brought in three show-horses.

“We will be expecting to provide space for another 10 horses in the next six days but that number could change.

The impact this help will have is great as the area these horses were in is on forestry lease land. So, there were many trees and if that is the path the fire took, their whole barns and horses could have the potential to be destroyed. Unfortunately, that is the harsh reality.”

When asked why (VAS) immediately did this. “We opened our grounds last summer as there was the potential of an evacuation in the Ardrossan and Sherwood Park area. So, when this wildfire transpired in the past two days, it was a no-brainer that we would do this.

I believe in this as I know what it is like in the horse community in Fort McMurray as I had horses there. If you need to take your horse to the vet or you become displaced, there isn’t always a place to go. I lived and worked there and was a part of the Fort McMurray evacuation in 2016.

But I was not affected by it as I came out without injuries and my house was fine and my career was fine.

In closing, I would like to request if anyone has any hay for the evacuees they would be willing to offer, that would be appreciated.”

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Russell Crowe with some of the horses in the (VAS) facility.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Some of the horse stalls.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

One of the many horses in the (VAS) facility. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Holden 4-H Beef Club Holds Achievement Day

Alyssa Ezio Club Reporter

The Holden 4-H Beef Club held its Achievement Day on April 26. It was a great by day by all. The kids were always willing to help each other out and lend a helping hand where needed. Shout out to all the kids for the effort that was put in by them and their accomplishments.

Placings:

Grand Champion Cow/Calf - Quinten Albrecht

Reserve Champion Cow/Calf - Kate

Supreme Female - Quinten Albrecht

Grand Champion Steer - Rhea Gunderson

Reserve Champion Steer - Douglas Winses

Junior Grooming Overall winner - Rhea Gunderson

Junior Grooming 2nd Place - Tate Bratrud

Junior Showmanship Overall winner - Rhea Gunderson

Junior Grooming 2nd Place - Cohen Butner

Junior Judging - Rhea Gunderson

Intermediate Grooming Overall Winner - Bailey Chomik

Intermediate Grooming 2nd place - Tuf Bratrud

Intermediate Showmanship Overall Winner - Tuf Bratrud

Intermediate Showmanship 2nd Place - Douglas Winsnes

Intermediate Judging - Tuf Bratrud

Senior Grooming Overall Winner - Kate Albrecht

Senior Grooming 2nd Place - Zane Gunderson

Senior Showmanship Overall Winner - Kate Albrecht

Senior Showmanship 2nd Place - Zane Gunderson

Senior Judging - Quinten Albrecht

Club members. (Gracie Lang/Submitted Photo)

Quinten Albrecht, back right, with his grand champion cow/calf with helpers Tate and Tuf Bratrud. (Gracie Lang/Submitted Photo)

Rhea Gunderson and her Grand Champion steer with Conformation

Judge Grace Christensen and senior member Zane Gunderson. (Gracie Lang/Submitted Photo)

Junior member Tate Bratrud receives assistance from senior member Quinten Albrecht. (Gracie Lang/Submitted Photo)

Intermediate member Alyssa Ezio helping Cleaver member Caroline Leitch. (Gracie Lang/Submitted Photo)

speeches, fellowship and refreshments at the Vegreville Cultural Centre on May 16.

Yuliia Kalutska stated that because of the cultural support the Town of Vegreville has given, they feel a deep connection to their culture, making this place special for each of them. “Our town has become a model for preserving Ukrainian traditions and fostering a sense of pride of belonging to the Ukrainian heritage. We have a unique opportunity to support and develop our cultural customs, ensuring their transmission to future generations; let this support of cultural heritage be our contribution to creating a solid foundation for the future of our community. We are grateful for the support of every person who supported us in this town. We are happy to call Vegreville our home!

Liana Zalenska said, “This celebration honours our national attire, and, symbolizes our identity, unity, and pride.”

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Alionka Dzhuga commented, “The Ukrainian embroidered shirt is not just clothing, it is a code of our nation that carries a millennia of history. Embroidery has accompanied each Ukrainian from birth to the most significant events in life. The history of the embroidered shirt spans centuries, demonstrating mastery, creativity, and deep respect for traditions.”

Maryna Bodnar mentioned that today as they celebrate Embroidery Day, they also join a global action that unites Ukrainians from around the world. “We show our love, pride and respect for our traditions. On this special day, we also want to express our gratitude and respect for our warriors who protect our country. A deep bow to them!”

Attendees socializing. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos)

Save Our Penguin Fundraiser Brings Out Sense of Community

of a facelift.”

Save Our Penguin fundraiser was met with positive response by folks who took in the May 11 fundraiser in the Village of Innisfree which also included an open air market, classic car show and communitywide garage sale.

Curtis Serben, one of the event organizers, remarked, “We had a great turnout and so much fun. The atmosphere was festive and had a strong sense of community. We had dozens of folk from here and neighbours from surrounding communities. We are so grateful to see so many so many like-minded people come together and share the day with us in raising funds in order to give Ernie a bit

Shirley Wonsik, who organized the classic car show, was pleased with the event. She enjoyed all the smiles, hugs and meeting new and old friends. She was also pleased with the support from all the surrounding towns, from Clandonald to Vegreville to Vermilion to Ranfurly.

Debbie McMann organized the community-wide garage sale. There were a total of 15 garage sales in the Village of Innisfree and reported that activity was steady throughout the day.

Just over $1,800 was raised during the fundraiser with donations continuing to trickle in. Repairs on Ernie the Cut Bank Penguin are expected to begin shortly.

Vegreville Minor Soccer Association Receives Grant to Host Lakeland Cup

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

The Vegreville Minor Soccer Association (VMSA) is the latest recipient of the Local Sports & Events Hosting Grant, sponsored by the Town of Vegreville. Grand Funding will go towards hosting of the U15 and U19 Lakeland Cup Tournament that will be held in late June.

The Lakeland Cup will be a three-day tournament that will draw between 200 and 400 participants and attendees to the community.

VMSA Registrar and Communications Director Shelley Berry, stated, “We are honoured to receive this local sports grant from the town of Vegreville and look

forward to hosting a Great Lakeland Cup. I am the Assistant Coach for the U19 Girls and our girls are working hard to prepare for our league games and for the Lakeland Cup which gives us the opportunity to qualify for Provincials.”

This season there are 302 players from U5-U19 registered with VMSA.

The Local Sports and Events Hosting Grant is intended to financially assist groups, teams, leagues, and organizations that bring visitors, including participants, attendees, or spectators, to Vegreville through tournaments, events, or competitions.

Successful applicants are eligible for a one-time $1,500 grant from the Town of Vegreville’s Community Engagement and Economic Development department.

Town Councillor David Berry presenting $1,500 cheque to VMSA President Allan Bohrson with members of the U19 girls’ team in attendance. (Town of Vegreville/Facebook Photo)

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Thane Serben dressed up as a penguin for the fundraiser.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Classic automobiles on Main Street. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Shirley Wonsik. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Curtis Serben, front right, with fundraiser participants. (Shirley Wonsik/Submitted Photo)

Tributes

LENCEWICH, Tom

Another year has passed Since God called you away But still we miss you Each and every day.

What we wouldn’t give to take one more walk Or just quietly sit and have one more talk. Miss you Brother and always will

For though you’re gone we love you still.

Darcy, Sharon, Tara, Natasha, Todd Dean and Kayla

HORON, Jim

January 15, 1967 – May 18, 2024

Jim Steven Horon passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 18, 2024 at St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville at the age of 57. He was born on January 15, 1967 in Vegreville to Ed and Hilda Horon. He is survived by his children, Courtney and Dylan, an older sister Bernice Langkow, younger brother Randy (Jennifer) Horon, nephews Christopher Langkow, Gavin and Oliver Horon. He was predeceased by many close relatives, in particular his beloved Aunt Linda Warawa, who we know he is catching up with at this moment.

The best days spent with dad were nothing short of adventurous, full of belly laughs and jokes, learning experiences, smiles and spontaneity. From putting Dylan behind the wheel of a combine at age 5, to pulling

us out of school early so we could have an extra day at the lake, he always had the perfect combination of a “life’s too short” and “everything’s a lesson” mentality. His classic “how you doin” Joey Tribbiani impression was one of his many

Giving to Help Youth Projects

On May 2, Vegreville Elks Lodge No. 143 members presented a cheque for $500 to Vegreville Heat Community Girls’ Club Basketball team. Head Coach for U15 Girls Mark Kobelsky explained, “This team is about player and team development. It is meant to assist players in developing their basketball skills outside the regular season. This donation will help this club enter another spring league season in the Edmonton Youth Basketball Association (EYBA). We are now in the tier two. In the games so far, we had one win and one tie, a close loss and the other losses were by three points. So, we are holding our own. The girls have accepted the challenge of competing in the Genesis Tournament in Calgary which will be held on May’s long weekend. We are grateful to everyone who donated.”

Impressive Array of Crafters at Ryley Spring Market

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

A total of 30 vendors were selling a wide variety of crafters and goods during the Ryley Spring Market on May 11.

Teacher and Event Coordinator Colin Bennion stated that rent from the tables would go back into the junior high options program which includes woodworking, food science and art. He said

there are about 40 students who participate in those programs.

Grade 7 student Gabby Romaniuk said they participated in a skills competition in Edmonton on May 9 and that it was a great event to participate in.

Because of a recent donation from Clean Harbours, Bennion said they will not have to charge any school fees, sports, field trips, swimming lessons, school supplies, etc.

On May 2, Vegreville Elks Lodge No. 143 members presented a cheque for $250 to sponsor the Vegreville 4-H Beef Club Achievement Day Show and Sale. In photo are Elks members with a 4-H member from L-R: George Childs, William Smolak, Bernie Florkow, Orest Olineck, Sydney Sen, Paul Bosse, Tim Andreas, and Stacy Mynzak. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

In the front row is the basketball team from L-R: Jelayna Ogrodnick, Hana Bodnarchuk, Kylee Paquette, and Assistant Coach Marlee Ogrodnick. In the back row are Elk members and the Head Coach from L-R: William Smolak, George Childs, Orest Olineck, Mark Kobelsky, Paul Bosse, Stacy Mynzak, Bernie Florkow, Ed Ahlstrom, and Tim Andreas. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Grade 7 student Gabby Romaniuk. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Student Braydan Vanstone. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Copper Arrow designs headed up by Selina Hellekson and nine-year-old daughter Blakely. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Having a Field Day

Around the World

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Students’ faces wore expressions of interest at the A.L. Horton School Cultural Night on May 8.

At this event, people of all ages learned a few facts about the featured countries of Nigeria, Colombia, France, Greece, Ukraine, China, Philippines, India, Mexico, Indigenous Canada - the Cree, Italy, Japan, and South Africa.

Principal Keri Busenius explained, “Our objective for hosting this event was our school includes students from countries all around the world, and over 20 languages are spoken by our students and their families. As a

result, we wanted to celebrate the different languages, foods, music, clothing, games, and cultural events from students’ countries of origin while also highlighting our many similarities. This open house brought families together to play, learn, gather, eat, talk, and enjoy each other’s company. With lots of conversation and many smiles from over 250 people in attendance, we accomplished our goal!

We chose many countries of the ancestry of our students and families.

Students created the display information of the countries and sometimes parents who had a certain country as their ancestral home assisted with ideas. In our LINKS-1 class, staff assisted students with autism in creating display information.

There were demonstrations of food sampling at the canteen featuring Ukraine, China, and Mexico. In the LINKS-1 class families could make a pizza “in Italy” with favourite toppings. There were also some foods to taste in classrooms, traditional cultural games, voting stations for favourite songs in different languages, and other cultural customs to try.”

Name: Darby Warwick

my work Dislikes: spiders, bees

People of all ages explore the different displays and attractions. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos)

Notice to Creditors and Claimants

Estate of Donald Henry Lahl; also known as Don Lahl; Don H Lahl; Donald Lahl who died on 2024-03-05.

If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by 2024-06-29 with Duncan Craig LLP

Attention: Kayla Thompson 2800, 10060 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB T5J 3V9

If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.

NOTICE
OF
MAILING
OF
2024
COMBINED ASSESSMENT
AND
TAX
NOTICES

(7) days after mailing within Alberta and fourteen (14) days outside of the province.

Anyone wishing to object to the assessment value on any property in their name must, within 60 days of the date of the notice of assessment (Wednesday July 24, 2024), lodge their complaint using only the prescribed "Assessment Review Board Complaint" form (which is available at the Town Office) to the Assessment Review Board Clerk, of the Town of Two Hills. The appeal must be accompanied by a $50.00 fee per residential parcel or $100 per non-residential parcel, which will be refunded to the complainant if the complaint is successful.

The Property Assessor is available to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about your property assessment you may reach him by phone at 1-780-842-5002.

Dated this 17th day of May, 2024.

July 2023, our mission has been to expand our organics infrastructure to meet demand. There is strong demand from Alberta municipalities and businesses for our composting services as both government and commercial enterprises look to reduce waste and meet their waste diversion goals.

Our intent is to produce horticultural grade finished compost for use in industries that include but is not limited to local residents, farmers, and ranchers, residential and commercial landscapers and gardeners, food production facilities, civil construction, environmental remediation opportunities, and local businesses.

Our aerated process uses source separated organics that include food waste with recycled wood, straw, or other amendments, water, and air to break

down the organic food waste into a soil amendment. The process takes approximately four to six months depending on the weather and material. A mixer is used to create a uniform blend of material that is moved with heavy equipment to an aerated static pile where fans blow air into the piles. Row material mixing and moisture adjustments occur during the process. Once the material has been processed and meets regulatory thresholds, it is moved to the cure pad to mature for a minimum of 21 days before final screening is completed and the compost is ready for use.

The compost must meet the guidelines set out in the Canadian Council of Ministers for the Environment (CCME) Guidelines for Compost Quality. We are striving toward the production of Category A compost.”

She went on to say, “Compost is now available for sale. It must be pre-ordered through our sales team, with pricing based on the tonnage required and any potential delivery costs. Pickup in Ryley can be arranged when coordinated with our sales team. In the near future you will be able to directly order from our website.

Tecklenborg pointed out that its shareholders include Beaver County, Tofield, Viking, Ryley, and Holden. “We are privileged to continue to work alongside our shareholders. Our dedication to sustainability drives us to innovate and implement practices that minimize our environmental impact. We provide our communities with sustainable and environmentally responsible waste management solutions while ensuring we foster a strong workplace culture for our employees.

Notice to Creditors and Claimants

Estate of Vidette Laverne Lee Keast who died on May 3, 2024. If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by: June 30, 2024 with Olson Rau + Mohr Solicitor for the Personal Representative at #12, 6109 50th Avenue Vegreville, Alberta T9C 1N6 and provide details of your claim. If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.

As we continue to move forward, Claystone will continue to explore new and innovative ways to improve our services that focuses our efforts on our customers and the communities in which we work with. We are grateful for the ongoing support of our shareholders.”

Adam Kozakiewicz, CAO Town of Two Hills

Green Opportunity - CONTINUED from PAGE 5

Compost loading area. (Gene Hrabec/Submitted Photo)