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News Advertiser
may 27, 2020
www.NewsAdvertiser.com
COVID-19 Weekly Regional Update Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Alberta’s COVID-19 hospitalization rates remain low with 46 people in hospital, six of whom are in intensive care. In total, 5,924 Albertans have recovered from COVID-19. There have been no more deaths. The numbers in this region remain unchanged. In Vegreville/Minburn County, there were: 2 cases, 0 active, 2 recovered, and 0 deaths. In Two Hills County, there were: 0 cases, 0 active, 0 recovered, and 0 deaths. In Lamont County there were: 2 cases, 0 active, 2 recovered, and 0 deaths. In Beaver County, there were: 2 cases, 0 active, 2 recovered, and 0 deaths. In Tofield, there were: 2 cases, 0 active, 2 recovered, and 0 deaths. In Viking there were: 0 cases, 0 active, 0 recovered, and 0 deaths. Alberta Health reported that voluntary testing is now available in longterm care and level four designated
supportive living facilities. According to the Province, there are about 27,000 residents and 44,000 staff in long-term care and level 4 designated supportive living facilities – those providing a higher level of support to people with more complex needs – can now be tested for COVID-19, if they choose, even if they have no symptoms. Also on the seniors front, the Province announced funding for seniors housing projects that are estimated to create about 190 jobs, and ensure seniors with low income have access to well-maintained homes. According to a government press release, the Province is providing $26 million to support 82 new capital maintenance and renewal projects for seniors housing facilities. These projects, taking place in communities across the province, will focus on the health and safety of residents, help keep units open and contribute to the government’s ring of defence around seniors. Funding will finance renovations and emergency repairs to facilities. Projects include replacing or repairing boilers, elevators, HVAC units, electrical and safety systems, siding, windows, roofing, and more. To ensure current residents stay safe, the maintenance and renewal work will focus on building exteriors, unoccupied suites, and lowtraffic areas. Minister of Health Tyler Shandro issued a statement on Alberta Rural Health Week: “Health-care providers
make untold contributions to enhance the quality of life in rural Alberta. They live in their communities, are active in their communities, and care about their communities. They choose to serve in rural communities for the quality of life it provides and for the meaningful relationships they are able to build by working in smaller centres. “Our health-care providers deliver outstanding patient care regardless of where they work in the province. We want to thank them for their expertise and commitment to keeping Albertans healthy, especially during these unprecedented times as they battle COVID-19
on the front lines. “During this special week, we also recognize local community volunteers who help keep health care close to home by supporting health-care initiatives and health-care providers in their communities. These volunteers go the extra mile by giving their time, extending kindness, and sharing a personal connection that means so much. “On behalf of all Albertans, we celebrate and thank health-care providers in our rural communities for all they do. They are valued and appreciated. Happy Alberta Rural Health Week.”
Birthday Celebration in the Park
Jesse gets to honor his 15th birthday with his family at Vegreville/Elks Kinsmen Park. (Rosanne Fortier/photo)
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
The Keryluk’s family thought the weather was so lovely on May 24 that they had a picnic at a gazebo at Vegreville Elks/Kinsmen Park to celebrate Jesse’s 15th birthday.
