Vegreville News Advertiser - October 7, 2020

VOL. 73 NO. 41

73 YEARS OF SERVING THE COMMUNIT Y WEDNESDAY, October 7, 2020 The Only Locally Owned News & Adver tising Media in Vegreville .

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Grow Arena Project Harvest Complete

EDMONTON • LAMONT • MAYERTHORPE • SMOKY LAKE

Sponsors and volunteers with the Grow Arena Arena Project had a great day of harvesting on Oct. 3. Pictured from left to right are: Randy Metrunec, Jacob Krahn, Morley Dennill, Dan Webb,Terry Kitz, and Dustin Axley. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Clear blue skies and warm temperatures were in abundance Saturday, Oct. 3.

High atop the bank of the North Saskatchewan River in Brosseau volunteers and sponsors with the Grow Arena Project were harvesting wheat on the 40-acre field.

Later in the day, Terry Kitz said they’d be heading

over to the other field, 100 acres on the south side of the river to do the same. “We’re hoping to get 80 bushels per acre out of this.”

This is the third year they have been harvesting crops, with all of the proceeds going to pay for renovations at the Two Hills Arena. Kitz estimates they’ve

grow arena project - CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Potential Loss of Tax Revenue Sparks Reaction

by Ratepayers See page 7 for story

Orest Fodchuk Speaks on his Full and Active Life See page 9 for story

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WE WISH 2020 WAS FAKE NEWS, TOO. Happy National Newspaper Week to the readers who need it most.

OCTOBER 4-10TH, 2020

RCMP files from September 28 October 4 Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser

September 28

Fire Prevention Week Feature

Section B

Historic Hunka Homestead Stands Page 19 the Test of Time

11:43 – Report of unwanted text messages being received. The complainant just wants them to stop. Members spoke to the subject of the complaint who agreed to stop messaging the complainant.

12:27 – Traffic stop conducted. The driver was charged with operating a vehicle without a certificate of registration. The offence carries a voluntary penalty of $324.

13:38 – After receiving a phone call that his credit card had been used in Germany. As requested, the complainant provided the caller with his credit card number and expiry date.

After realizing this was a scam, the complainant proceeded to call his bank and cancel his credit card.

He was provided information for the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

19:58 – Report of a vehicle hitting a dumpster in the town of Vegreville.

The caller was concerned that the driver may be impaired. Members located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop and roadside breath demand. It was determined that the driver had been drinking but was not intoxicated.

quad had been stolen and was following it. Members attended and found the property which was damaged and recovered. Other stolen property was found on the site. Three individuals were arrested and remanded into custody. A 31-year-old male from the County of Minburn, a 38-year-old male from Edmonton, and a 24-year-old female from Cold Lake have been charged in connection with possession of stolen property. One individual was released and the other two are in custody awaiting court.

08:12 – Report of a suspicious vehicle in Lamont County. An old “beat up” red Ford single cab pickup truck. The plate provided did not match the vehicle but had not been reported stolen. The vehicle was not located and attempts were made to contact the owner of the

September 30

07:39 – Report of a theft in progress.

A rural property owner reports that his

October 1

12:42 – Call from a Vegreville business indicating that they believe they have received counterfeit money.

Members attended and it was confirmed that the currency was in fact counterfeit. A male was observed on CCTV and the investigation is ongoing.

October 2

Nothing of note

October 3

01:06 – Traffic stop attempted on Hwy 36 for a vehicle that was travelling at an unreasonably slow rate. The vehicle fled from the member during the stop and was found shortly after near a field without the driver.

Open liquor was found in the vehicle. Investigation is ongoing.

21:51 – Complaint of occupants in a grey car who were shooting fireworks at a pedestrian in Vegreville. Investigation is ongoing.

October 4

September 29

10:39 – Call to report a wallet that was stolen out of her unlocked car overnight in Vegreville. A debit card was used at a Vegreville business. The investigation is ongoing.

12:48 – Report of a hit and run at a Vegreville business. CCTV shows a blue truck hitting the complainant’s parked vehicle and not stopping. The investigation is ongoing.

13:39 – Report of batteries and wiring stolen from well sites over the previous two weeks. Investigation is ongoing.

20:20 – Report of a stolen wallet from a vehicle. Members on duty had found a wallet earlier and were able to return the wallet to the owner. After further investigation, it did not appear that the wallet had been stolen but rather fell out of the vehicle.

Onion Lake was charged with speeding (VP of $207), no certificate of registration (VP of $243), no insurance card (VP of $243), and driving without an operator’s license (VP $324).

license plate. Investigation is ongoing.

09:30 – Report of fraud via e-transfer.

The complainant reports purchasing a motorhome that was advertised in a Facebook ad. They transferred $1,500 to the seller without viewing the product. The seller is no longer replying to phone calls or messages. Under investigation.

12:09 – Report of a wallet being stolen from an unlocked vehicle overnight in the town of Vegreville.

12:19 – Report of a vehicle being entered overnight in Vegreville. Change was missing and the vehicle had been gone through.

20:36 – Traffic stop conducted on Hwy 16. A 31-year-old male from

11:21 – Report of a purse stolen from a vehicle that was broken into while parked at a church in Vegreville. A suspicious person was noted in the area and information provided to members.

Investigation is ongoing.

12:41 - Traffic enforcement resulting in approximately 7 speeding tickets as well as tickets for failing to obey a traffic device and failing to provide a certificate of registration.

During the week there were 94 calls for service made in total including: 1 false alarm, 0 false 911s, 2 animal strikes, 2 wellbeing checks, and approximately 26 tickets from traffic enforcement.

Have questions about the blotter?

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

october 7, 2020

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People in vehicles line up to go into the Drive-In Movie. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Families were treated to a free Vegreville Drive-In Family Movie Night featuring the movie, Sonic the Hedgehog on September 26 at Vegreville Agricultural Grounds.

Anya Langkow, Tourism, Recreation and Culture Coordinator for Town of Vegreville, said, “We had people in 104 vehicles attend the movie. It was great to see the range in ages of people that attended from young to old.

We decided to host this Drive-In Movie because we were looking for an event that we could host for the community because there were so many things that were cancelled and didn’t happen that normally would have

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throughout the summer.

So, we thought a community drive-in movie would be something that families could do that would be safe and we wanted to seek out partners because we wanted to offer it as a free event for families to enjoy.

The Kinette Club of Vegreville was the primary sponsor of the event and worked in partnership with Fresh Air Cinema, the Vegreville Agricultural Society, and the Town of Vegreville.

The testimonies we received after the event were people said they were thrilled to have something to do and they enjoyed coming out with their families. Overall, the event went great; the parking went well, the set-up was great, and it was a beautiful evening.”

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Systemic Division Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser - Opinion The word “Systemic” has been bandied about a lot in recent months. There are many things being called systemic yet not everyone agrees with those pointing the fingers.

One thing that seems clear is that our federal government is quite good at systemic division. At times this division has been subtle and at other times not so subtle as they find ways to drive wedges between Canadians. On the subtle side, there are programs put in place to stifle progress in the west under the guise of protecting the environment. The West-Coast oil tanker ban and Bill C-69 (no more pipelines) are two examples of how Ottawa controls population and money to ensure their power resides where they want it.

To add to the division, there is a quiet new carbon tax coming which will further penalize certain sectors, most of which are western. The new “clean fuel standard” will require supplies of fossil fuel to reduce carbon content. If this requirement cannot be met, there will be a $350/tonne carbon tax levied. Compare this to the $40/tonne B.C. pays as well as their own numbers showing emissions rising 10 percent in the past three years. PM Trudeau himself stated in an interview on Radio-Canada, “Even if Canada stopped everything tomorrow, and the other countries didn’t have any solutions, it wouldn’t make a big difference.” So then why the tax? It helps divide the West with our natural gas heating and energy jobs from the East with ample hydroelectric and

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a large government workforce.

Language is also a place where some are more equal than others. Federal employees know very well that if you are bilingual, you have more opportunities than someone who is not. Even if someone becomes bilingual, their accent can affect how they are treated in the workforce. Canadian labeling laws dictate that you must have both French and English on the packaging. However, if you are in Quebec, the language police may write you a letter, visit you, and even fine you if you do not comply with their arbitrary rules. One example: St. Lazare, Quebec. A bilingual town with about 36 percent Anglophones and 53 percent native French speakers, the language police did not care for the word “Welcome” on their town sign. They were not just asked to add the French “vous accueille,” but were told to remove the English from all signage. I’ll let you research what happened next.

Finally, there is an item from recent news. When the World Sikh Organization of Canada said taking Sikh officers off the front lines constitutes discrimination, Justin Trudeau all but agreed with them. He stated that he was “disappointed” by the RCMP over the treatment of Sikh officers who were assigned duties away from the front lines because health officials deemed it risky due to the N95 masks not being able to be sealed when the mask wearer had a beard. Since police forces across the globe have gone under the microscope, Trudeau has jumped on the bandwagon and feels it is justifiable to criticize them at any opportunity. This is yet another wedge that divides us.

Could this have been handled better? Yes, on both sides.

The RCMP could have consulted (maybe they did) with officers and religious leaders to try to make EVERYONE happy. Sikh officers and leaders could have NOT played the discrimination card and offered up suggestions in a more productive approach on how these officers could do their front line duties while also staying safe and not risking the health of clients, their co-workers, and everyone’s families.

Between the two sides should have been the voice of reason in government.

This is just as absurd as religious leaders stating that banning public gatherings (such as church) is discriminatory.

It’s not. It’s simply science. Science tells us that wearing masks reduces the spread of COVID-19. COVID doesn’t care who you pray to and it’s not my responsibility to jump through hoops to accommodate you. Having said that, there are a wide variety of masks purposely designed for men with full beards. I’m sure with the billions of dollars being tossed around, the federal government could have consulted with our top scientists and health professionals and found a solution that would have been acceptable to all. Instead, our PM throws the RCMP under the bus once again because his goal is not a united Canada. His goal is to divide.

I wonder if PM Trudeau or some representatives calling out discrimination would fancy a visit to some of our fine oil and (sour) natural gas sites. Would any of them refuse to wear a mask or would they simply be ignorant of the science and the 3 characters H-2-S? One of the roles of government is to create a system that at least appears fair and that brings people together. After all, we are ALL Canadians. What we have now is a deeply divided country that gets pushed apart even more with every passing day and where some are more equal than others. Systemic division.

Tell me what you think.

Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com This piece has been edited for length. An extended version of this opinion piece can be read at www.newsadvertiser.com

october 7, 2020

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Vegreville Corn Maze’s Opening Weekend Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Vegreville Corn Maze’s Opening Weekend event was a stalk of fun on September 26 and 27 at the Vegreville

grounds as well as the Thistle Hill Farm Mobile Petting Zoo. The Vegreville and District FCSS in conjunction with the Vegreville Family Resource Network supplied the fall Craft Kit Farm. The

Families participate in the Corn Maze. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Regional Museum’s grounds.

The theme for this weekend was Kids, Corn, and More-Kernels of Fun for Everyone. This event was meant to provide an enjoyable seasonal event in a safe social environment while giving local non-profit groups the opportunity to raise funds.

This event featured the Vegreville Corn Maze which is located east of the

Vegreville Centennial Library offered the Guided Story Stroll to attendees.

Other activities included: an Emergency Vehicle Display, Mini Max Bakery, and DLC Lemonade Lane. The Vegreville Visual Artists Rocks Bale Maze Rock Hunt proved popular, and the Vegreville Fire Department’s concession was much appreciated by event goers.

Anya Langkow, Tourism, Recreation

and Culture Coordinator for Town of Vegreville, said there were over 600 people who attended the two day event, and organizers are hoping to accommodate many more visitors in the coming weekends that the event will be held.

“We had positive comments from everybody. They were really happy with how the activities were geared towards children and they loved that the corn maze wasn’t too large and had lower spots and higher spots so the kids really felt like it was a maze for children. We had families who drove in from out of town. When we asked people where they were from, they said they were coming in from Edmonton, Elk Point, Wainwright, Camrose, St. Paul, and all over Alberta.

I want to acknowledge the community and everyone who helped to bring the attraction together. People should come each weekend as there will be different attractions to enjoy, see, and do. It is affordable, family fun event close to home.” Langkow said.

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from the pages of the vegreville observer

Compiled by Dan Beaudette

90 Years Ago – October 8, 1930

Excise officer Campbell has been doing considerable sleuthing lately and by gathering information here and there, has been enabled to get considerable evidence of a great home industry, that of moonshining. He had a few offenders haled before Magistrate Gore-Hickman on September 30th. When you start your still fire going it would be better for you to keep your weather eye peeled for Mr. Campbell, or a better idea than that would be to put your fire out, destroy the still and buy your liquor from the vendor.

Having drifted at the mercy of the waves for several hours, a flying boat which had been forced to come down in the Baltic Sea owing to engine trouble, was eventually taken in tow by a schooner. The boat shortly afterwards capsized, five persons being drowned. The pilot, the engineer, and a passenger were rescued.

75 Years Ago – October 10, 1945

Another boy from Innisfree got back from overseas, when Bob Ryerse, C.A.S.C., arrived home, having spent four years in the service.

The seventh and final game of the World’s Baseball Series was played on October 10th. The Chicago Cubs and the Detroit Tigers were the contenders and each club had won three games. The final score was 9 to 3 in favor of the Tigers.

Pte. Herbert Nioedemus, who has been overseas for five years with the Loyal Edmonton Regiment, has returned home.

Fred C. Clegg, of London, Ontario, had been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. His wife is the dormer Helen Fitzallen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Fitzallen of Vegreville.

A Toronto businessman righted the wrong done by a purse-snatcher who stole $42 saved by Mrs. Frederick Herity so she and her fiveyear-old daughter Sharon could travel to Winnipeg to meet her husband, recently freed from a Japanese prison camp. The businessman, G.H. Wood, gave Mrs. Herity $100 to make the trip.

An entire shipload of Canadian storage eggs, totalling 100,000 cases on 170 cars, will be loaded soon on a ship at Vancouver for export to Britain via the Panama canal and is believed the largest such shipment ever exported from any country, the agriculture department said in a marketing service report.

The defence ministry said the 21.415 Australians were killed during the war and 37.477 were wounded. Other casualties; 6,519 missing, 19,202 prisoners of war in enemy hands and 7,598 prisoners of was escaped or repatriated.

50 Years Ago – October 8, 1970

Forms for the concrete which will house the compressor unit at the Warwick Compressing Plant have been poured. This is the primary unit of the plant in which the by-products are removed.

On September 15th eight men graduated as Custodial Housekeepers and four ladies graduated in a Hospital Housekeeping Training Course. They are as follows: Mrs. N. Korpan, Vegreville; Mrs. V. Chmilar, Vegreville; Mrs. M. Dorland, Wainwright; Mrs. F. Nichol, Wainwright; Mr. Julien Lafontaine, St. Paul; Mr. Charles Langpap, Vegreville, Mr. Allan McDonald, V.A.V.C.; Mr. William Semeniuk, Myrnam; Mr. Ivan Ewanchuk, V.A.V.C.; Mr. Edward Bochon, V.A.V.C.; Mr. William Klein, Edmonton; and Mr. Walter Van Den Biggelaar, Edmonton.

The Arthur Ziegler Family, winner of the 1970 Master Farm Family Award will be honored at a Banquet and Dance to be held at the Chateau Dining Hall in Vegreville. Honourable H.A. Ruste, Minister of Agriculture, Province of Alberta has announced that he will make the presentation of provincial plaque, and one thousand dollar award to the Ziegler Family on this occasion.

25 Years Ago – October 10, 1995

Mayor Kay McKenzie officially received the keys for the former soil research station on behalf of the town during a ceremony. The facility will now be used to consolidate Vegreville’s three museums.

We have the building, but buildings are easy to come by,” said Mayor McKenzie. “The hard part is to get it going and keep it going. We’re going to need the efforts of dedicated people and more importantly, we’re going to need money.” Another feature of the combined museum will be material from former deputy prime minister Don Mazankowski who donated photos, scrolls and other memorabilia to the historical society.

Harvest is all but over in the Vegreville-Two Hills area for another year. And it’s been a bitter or bountiful harvest, depending where one farms. “The harvest is essentially over other than a little bit of stuff left to clean up,” said Kent Macdonald, a crop specialist with Alberta Agriculture. MacDonald explained yields “are all over the map” this year, depending on location. Generally, areas north and east of Vegreville has either poor yields or none at all, while areas to the south and west ranged from slightly below average to good.

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.

Eight Steps to get Canada’s Economy Restarted Ian Madsen Troy Media Contributor Federal government schemes and programs to ameliorate the devastation wrought by the illconsidered shutdown of the Canadian economy for nearly three months have focused on compensating individuals and businesses for being unemployed or shutting down.

Little thought, thus far, has been given to how to relaunch the economy for a sustained recovery from COVID-19.

The usual handouts will still, apparently, be available for months to come. Those who love government propose much more of this ecofocused largesse.

It need not be this way. Government can do more by doing less, by unleashing the private sector.

Aside from tweaking the CERB (Canadian Emergency Relief Benefit) program so it phases out as the recipients become employed again, there are other ways to make work, and hiring, attractive again for all parties: staff, employers and the government.

First, allow companies to sell the rights to their pre-tax losses to other, presumably profitable companies. This gets money into the hands of the companies that need it most, quickly, without the government directly losing anything.

Second, suspend Employment Insurance (EI) and government pension plan contributions for employees and employers for six months. This would cost money but make hiring and working, more attractive for both parties.

And by putting people back to work and enabling businesses to operate more effectively with higher complements of staff, it would generate more revenue and profits.

That income could be taxed later, directly or indirectly via spending at other busi-

nesses from the newly-liquid workers.

Third, suspend the GST for six months. This will accelerate consumer and business spending.

Fourth, lower income taxes on individuals and businesses. The Alberta government has made a good start but to effect a radical change, a larger cut should be made.

Fifth, radically reform corporate income tax.

Make it a flat 10 percent of operating income (earnings before interest and taxes) or 10 percent of free cash flow (operating cash flow – net income not including non-cash charges or changes – minus capital expenditures).

This will boost capital investment, which results in other business spending for all the things the new equipment requires: installation; connection and integration to or with other equipment or facilities; other supplies, instruments and equipment to complement the new equipment; hiring and training new employees to work on and with the new equipment; fuelling, monitoring and maintaining the new equipment; programming, software, and technicians required to optimize the equipment.

Sixth, streamline all environmental and related studies and consultation standards and requirements that are mandatory for large-scale industrial, infrastructure, and extractive industry projects.

Seventh, clarify and resolve all outstanding First Nations land use claims and rights, including any and all outstanding ones from abuse and neglect by government institutions over the past sorry centuries.

Eighth, remove all barriers to production, transport, sale, consumption, liquefaction, and export of natural gas. It’s clean and abundant and can displace dirtier coal and oil.

This is a start. Some of these ideas may not pan out but they’re worth debating. Certainly, they’re cheaper and far more productive – and, ultimately, more remunerative – than paying people and businesses to do nothing.

Ian Madsen is a senior policy analyst with the Frontier Centre for Public Policy.

october 7, 2020

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Potential Loss of Salute to Tax Revenue Sparks Front Line Workers Reaction by Kim Weinkauf Ratepayers Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Information about the potential impacts of the Province’s plan to change oil and gas assessment that was published in the County of Two Hills August newsletter sparked a lot of reaction from ratepayers.

Reeve Don Gulayec said he has fielded a minimum of 30 phone calls on the subject. “This number may not seem high, but when you compare this topic to calls about a snowstorm where people are stranded in their own yards and only want to know when the roads will be cleared, I may receive 10 calls at best.”

He went on to say the common concerns have been, “Why should the taxes be going up? Will we receive more services?

Where will the money come from to pay our taxes?”

The letter stated in part, “The changes to the assessment model for oil and gas regulated properties is without serious consideration to the impact of rural properties and taxbearing Albertans. These proposed changes will directly affect residents in the County of Two Hills.

Council and Administration are extremely concerned regarding the impact of this decision and the implications the County of Two Hills will have to administer by property tax increases, reduction of services, or both to compensate for the loss of revenue.”

Based on information provided by the province a loss of approximately 8-12 percent of tax revenue, between $1.4 to $2 million, would occur in the first year of the plan and increase every year after that.

Members of county council discussed the idea at their Sept.

23 monthly meeting and recommended they “simplify the message” for ratepayers and have another article published in the newsletter. Councillor Soren Odegard suggested they include information on farm, residential, linear, machine, and equipment tax assessment in the article.

Reeve Gulayec said, “In the near future I would like to have administration provide our taxpayers with provincial assessment and municipal mill rate information.”

Kim Weinkauf, Site Administrator of Mary Immaculate Care Centre in Mundare and St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

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october 7, 2020

Shadow Agriculture Minister Tours Lakeland Riding Michelle Pinon News Advertiser It was a whirlwind four-day tour of Lakeland last week for the Conservatives newly appointed Shadow Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Foods Lianne Rood.

The MP for the Lambton, Kent, and Middlesex Constituency in Ontario was here at the invitation of MP Shannon Stubbs who asked her to tour the constituency right after her appointment a few short weeks ago.

“This was my first available opportunity to take a trip being in this portfolio and my first trip was right here to Alberta. First of all, I’ve got a great colleague here in your MP. She grabbed me and said you’re coming to Alberta whenever you can come here, you’re coming to my riding and coming to see

Shadow Agriculture Minister Lianne Rood, far left, and Lakeland MP Shannon Stubbs, right during a tour of Miles and Melanie Wowk’s Ranch. (Lakeland Constituency/Submitted Photo)

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what’s going on here. So she did steal me away, and here we are today.”

During a candid interview with Rood in Pysanka Park in Vegreville on Oct. 3.

Rood grew up on a vegetable farm in Ontario and could sympathize with things she was hearing first hand from local producers in the region.

“We’ve had a great few days so far touring around and meeting folks from all of these areas that have been just devastated by the floods here. It’s been rather heartbreaking actually to talk to some of them because I feel for them because I’ve seen my family be in similar situations, not quite as bad as some of those we’ve heard from this week. But we’ve experienced flooding, we’ve experienced drought, we’ve experienced bad pricing, I get it.

And it’s really unfortunate that the Minister of Agriculture has been invited here by Shannon to come and see the devastation herself. To see that there is a problem here and I’ve called her out on it this week. I’ve said to her, you know you can see the pictures, but boots on the ground, it’s a whole different story than the pictures. You need to come here and talk to these people. And we haven’t heard anything from her yet so we’ll keep being the advocates here.”

Rood said the common thread

amongst the farmers throughout the area, was the fact that the agricultural programs, Agri Stability, in particular, are not working for them.

“Most of them, (farmers) I’ve talked to out here don’t even subscribe to the program. They have drained their Agri Invest Accounts and they really are hanging by a thread. They have drained their accounts because they are trying to keep their businesses afloat. They don’t have any cash flow because they aren’t making any money. They’ve had to pull the funds they set aside for a rainy day out, and we’ve had many rainy days, no pun intended here. Their savings are depleted because they are just trying to keep going. “It’s very saddening to hear farmers say to their kids who want to farm no don’t do it. Have your day job, have a career, maybe you can do this on the side. This is not what we want to hear. Farmers are our heroes.

They’re feeding us. People need to understand across this country that without our farmers we don’t get fed.

I said in my first speech in the house as shadow minister you know people we’re worried about toilet paper and not having enough toilet paper, but nobody said, hey what about food. Are we going to be able to eat down the road?

And maybe it’s because I come from a family where my grandparents f led the war and had to go through not having food and they taught us the value of making sure that you work hard and you put food on the tables, and farmers do exactly that for Canadians. They work hard and they are feeding us but we’ve been continually undervalued like we’re kind of like were some kind of bad word sometimes. There’s always a negative connotation. I think with COVID we’re starting to see the switch f lip on that and people pay more attention to where their groceries are coming from and who is supplying those. It’s my hope I can continue to educate people on the hard work and the passion that Canadian farm families put into feeding Canadians and the world. Because we have world-class products here we work very hard to produce and we need to make sure people value the contributions that farmers, ranchers and producers, and agriculture makes to the Canadian economy to our small towns and overall, to the health of our country.

october 7, 2020

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St. Mary’s Catholic School Holds Terry Fox Walk

Grade 9 students after completing the Terry Fox Run. (Mrs. O’Shea/Submitted)

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Students and staff at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Vegreville continue to support cancer research in the name of Terry Fox.

On Sept. 28 198 students and six teachers collectively walked 20 kilometers to raise funds for the Terry Fox Foundation. Altogether, they raised $500, contributing to his Marathon of Hope that reached the

40 year mark in 2020.

Mrs. O’Shea, a Wellness Coach at St. Mary’s, said the school has been doing the walk for over 15 years. “It started out as a 24 hour hockey tournament for a fundraiser, then turned into a com-

munity walk with all the schools, but this year with COVID we couldn’t do the community walk. As a school we wanted to ensure that students and staff still had the opportunity to walk for a loved one.”

Orest Fodchuk Speaks on his Full and Active Life Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Orest was born in 1923 where he grew up on a farm seven miles northwest of Vegreville. He had two older sisters and one younger brother. “My childhood was quite good. We were poor but we had no shortage of food. We grew a big garden and had livestock. We had no toys so we made up our own games.

“My parents were good. They worked hard. My dad did the farming and my mom did the housework.”

Later, Orest went to a two-room country school

from Grades one to 10 where he used to walk three miles to school in the summertime, and his father used to drive them by horse and buggy in the wintertime. “I liked school as I liked to learn. My favorite subject was math. I also had a lot of friends at school.”

“When I finished Grade 10, I went to Edmonton Technical School to take Grade 11 and 12. This was sort of like a trade school as it taught woodwork and other trades. Then after I finished Grade 12, I came back home to the farm. This was at the beginning of the Second World War and I

Orest Fodchuk - CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

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PAGE 10

News Advertiser

october 7, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Unmasking the Issue of Mandatory Face Masks Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Vegreville town council has decided to lay it all on the line when it comes to mandatory face masks.

The contentious issue was the first item to be discussed at their Sept. 28 meeting. Admittedly, Mayor Tim MacPhee stated, “I know that we all have had conversations amongst themselves that wasn’t open to the public regarding what we should do about wearing face masks. So we’re going to have

that discussion tonight.”

MacPhee asked councillors to be very clear on where they stand on the issue before going around the room for their opinions.

“Myself, personally, I have probably had eight members of our community contact me in the last two months asking why we have not made masks mandatory. I’ve told all eight of them that I feel where we’re at as a community now with the amount of cases that I don’t feel that it’s something that we need to do.”

MacPhee said he would support any individual, business, organization or church in the community that has made the use of face masks mandatory.

Councillor Tina Warawa said she had a lot of conversations, and interestingly enough had people on the opposite side than the mask side. She pointed out we are not in a “worse scenario” than we were in February or March. “We have not had masks through April, May, June, July or August and now September. I do not see any reason to change course.”

Coun. Warawa did say she is open to reviewing it on an ongoing basis to see if things change. “But I don’t support us passing a mandatory mask bylaw, but I support businesses who want to have it, and encourage people to wear them as well.”

Councillor Dave Berry said he would support individuals and businesses if they feel they need to wear masks. “My position on it is the health and welfare of people is really a provincial mandate and Doctor Hinshaw has not mandated the wearing of a mask across the province.

I don’t think it’s fair to download to individual communities to decide what they should be doing. Take a look at Edmonton’s mask bylaw since mid-August and I don’t see the numbers going down. So I think the science is there and I have a science background. I don’t think the science is there definitively stated either way. I don’t think it’s fair to try and mandate it against those who wish not to wear it.”

Councillor Marielle Brodziak said she agreed with the mayor. She also supports businesses who have mandated it, however, she feels it is up to the prov-

ince whether to mandate it or not.

Councillor Taneen Rudyk said there are a few issues more polarizing in municipal government in the last little while. “I can’t think of anything more contentious and I’ve been hearing from businesses the opposite, that they would like us to make that decision for them.

I guess as some of my colleagues have said, the challenge is that it’s a provincial decision and it’s been left in our hands, which is unfair. Businesses also feel it’s been put in their hands, which has also been unfair….I am a strong believer in wearing a mask and I would be supportive of having a mask bylaw for the simple sake of being respectful and allowing businesses to open.

Businesses I don’t think can survive fiscally or financially having another closure of businesses at large. So for that reason, I would support it just because it levels the playing field and removes contention between business owners as well as the staff who are getting the brunt of anger from people.”

Pat Dehid For the News Advertiser An American billion is called a milliard in Britain.

october 7, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

News Advertiser PAGE 11

Heather Curling Club Cancels 2020-’21 Season Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Members of the Heather Curling Club have decided to cancel the 2020-’21 season.

That news was delivered to members of town council during their legislative committee meeting Sept. 22.

Community Services Director Phil Rowe told council he had received a letter from the Heather Curling Club advising him of the decision.

A representative from the club did confirm it was an executive decision based on budget and COVID-19 health restrictions.

Mayor Tim MacPhee said, “Well, as a curler myself, I’m disappointed. I understand why the season can’t go ahead, but I do enjoy the sport.”

Ji l l R ic h a rd, Executive Director of Curling Alberta, said, “With more than 170 members curling clubs, we have confirmed that only two, so far, will elect not to open this season. Those clubs included the Chestermere Curling Club and the Heather Curling Club.

A return to play guidelines has been developed for boards of directors, volunteers, and managers of curling rinks in Alberta.

It states, “These guidelines were designed for eight people per sheet of ice with physical distancing recommendations.

Curling Alberta recommends that all curling centres adopt these guidelines to the best of their ability for club-level play including bonspiels, rentals, and various programs,

recognizing that each curling centre is unique (please refer to the Sanctioned Competitions section for guidance specific to competitive play).

Our best efforts to be compliant will keep our communities safer and allow us to collectively promote curling as a low-risk and accessible opportunity to stay active, social, and involved with the sport. If your club chooses to adopt an

alternate approach such as cohorting among teams or other groups such as entire leagues (i.e. to allow two sweepers and other relaxed physical distancing practices) please refer to Alberta’s applicable guidance and carefully consider the increased risks.”

The 36-page document covers risk assessment, layout and navigation, ice making and curling equipment, cleaning protocol, hygiene, miscellaneous

Seasonal Snow Plow Operators Emcon Services is currently seeking Seasonal snow plow operators For the Vegreville, Two Hills, and Lamont areas. For the 2020 /21 winter season.

Job duties may include but are not limited to:

Road patrols, snow plowing, sign, pot hole and guardrail repairs Ability to work extended hours and weekends and respond 24 hrs a day when required

Applicants must have min valid Class 3 driver’s license Emcon Services Inc. offers competitive wages and maintains a substance abuse policy.

Please email or apply in person to Jim Mears 14403 Hwy 16 service Rd Vegreville AB: Emcon Services Inc. Attn. Jim Mears Email: wmears@emconservices.ca

considerations, rules about lessons, bonspiels, and competitions. All programs should follow the guidelines set out by Alberta Health Services.

PAGE 12

News Advertiser

october 7, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

MLA Stresses Importance of Breast Cancer Awareness Birtthday D Dad a Happypy 80th Bi th Man nyy mo ore e to ccome your wayy.

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Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, MLA for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville October has arrived! This is a time of the year where students are getting back into the groove of their classes, the leaves are turning beautiful autumn colours, and many of us are enjoying this nice fall weather.

October is also a month to bring to Albertans’ attention an important issue, Breast Cancer Awareness. I know many of us, myself included, have had someone we love dearly affected by cancer.

Breast Cancer awareness is very important for women’s health, as it is the most common form of cancer found in women. Sadly, about one in eight women in Alberta will develop breast cancer at some point in their life. October is a time to bring awareness to this issue

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and remind women to get regular screenings to ensure that they can have early detection and advancements in treatment. I encourage all women in Alberta to be diligent about getting regular breast exams, as mammograms can often find breast cancers years

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Nicole, Cameron, Peyton, Dominic, Logan, and Brooklyn

before it’s felt. I also encourage everyone to bring awareness of breast cancer to the women in their lives. By being diligent we can fight cancer.

As the Chair of the Skilled Trades Caucus, I am proud of the initiative Alberta’s Government has brought forward to give women the opportunity to be involved in the skilled trades. The Ministry of Advanced Education is partnering with Women Building Futures to provide a Persons Case Scholarship. This will further gender equality in the skilled trades community and support more women as they build rewarding careers, care for their families, and participate in our economy. This funding will maintain its core mission of enhancing gender equality by focusing on skills development while creating job opportunities that are more inclusive for women. Women are overwhelmingly unrepresented in apprenticeship, trades, and STEM. This is evident when women make up half the population, but you see that only 10.5% of all apprentices in the province are women, only 1/3 enrolment and graduates of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) are women, and only 25% of employees in STEM are women. Alberta’s government is working diligently to ensure women have access to all post-secondary educational fields and opportunities.

Women are a strong part of our economy, and I am proud to see our government investing in their future.

october 7, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

News Advertiser PAGE 13

Vegreville Royal Purple Ladies Celebrate 60 Years of Volunteering for Canadian Blood Services

In the front row from left to right are: Marge Henderson, Shirley Rattray, Clara Nawrot, and Anne Stefancik. In the back row from left to right are: Enid Theophile, Ann Markowsky, Rose Hook, Nora Paquette, Marian Lemiski, Marion Baxandall, Stacey Mynsak, and Janet Kobylnyk. Please note Stacey Mynsak is a member of the Vegreville Elks Club, but he also volunteers his time with the Vegreville Royal Purple Ladies. Missing from the photo are: Joyce Porayko, Effie Lazowski, and Susan Stecyk. (Canadian Blood Services/Submitted Photo)

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Canadian Blood Services Blood Donor Clinic honoured the Vegreville Royal Purple Lodge No. 125 Ladies for volunteering for the CBS Blood Donor Clinic for 60 years. The presentation

was at the Blood Donor Clinic outside of the Vegreville Social Centre on September 22. Olga Elizarova, Coordinator for Volunteer Resources for Canadian Blood Services, and Tanya Atallah, Clinic Supervisor for Canadian Blood Services, presented each of the

Royal Purple members with a flower and a gift bag to recognize all of their years of volunteering at the Blood Donor Clinic.

Blood Donor Clinics first began operating out of the basement of the old United Church, the current site of the Telus

Orest Fodchuk - CONTINUED from PAGE 9

Orest is 97 years old and he still has a full life. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

got called in 1943 to serve in the army but I was exempt because I was the only boy on the farm and someone had to stay home to produce food. In a way, I was happy not to have to go to the war. Then I went to work at a sawmill north of Edmonton called Chishon. My job was loading plain lumber into the boxcar.”

Then in the spring of 1944, Orest started working again on the farm with his father.

“In 1960, I married Alice Mills who was a widow with four young daughters.

I knew Alice most of my life but I didn’t date her until she became a widow because after she finished at the country school, she went on her own and she took one year of university, and then she joined the Royal Canadian Air Force Women’s Division.

“After I married Alice, I took over the family farm from my father. Our marriage was very good. We worked hard on the farm. I enjoyed my four stepdaughters: Beverly and Barbara who were twins, Jo-Anne, and Lorna. They took to me well. As the girls grew up, I became very proud of them. All four girls attended university.

“Then in 1967, Alice went back to university to take education where she

finished and got her Degree in Education, and then she taught school at Lavoy for 20 years.

When Alice retired from teaching, they went straight to grain farming alone because they wanted to do some traveling. So, they took tours through Europe. Then in 1990, they rented out the land and retired from farming where they toured all the continents and Canada. In 1999, they sold the farm and moved to Vegreville.

Orest has resided at Heritage House since 2013 with his wife until she passed away about a year and a half ago. Orest showed National Geographic films of different countries to residents at the home. Now, he plays music for the residents from a cd player he owns.

Orest credited his long life to having good genes. The advice he would give people is to take time off; don’t only work in your life. His final comment was he had and still has a wonderful life.

building. The clinic moved to the Elks Hall and operated there until late 2019.

The clinic moved once again because the facility was too small to accommodate all of the equipment that was required by CBS. The clinic is currently held in the Vegreville Social Centre.

PAGE 14

News Advertiser

october 7, 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 have a friend who makes little sense to me. I'm the type of guy who likes to look at all the options before choosing the best one. My friend, on the other hand, is the complete opposite. After his divorce, he needed a place to live and asked for my help. However the day before we planned to look for apartments, he saw a "For Rent" sign and signed a lease. Even though it was more than he planned on spending, he took it anyway and then complained for the next year about money. Now just a year later he's got a girlfriend and is moving in with her.

They looked at only two apartments in the classifieds and rented the more expensive of the two. It's more than double the space they need and twice the rent. He asked my opinion, but I didn't know what to say. I think he continues to make mistakes due to his impulsive nature. How do I tell him that his new place is too much?

• • • Cash: Look at the bright side.

Your friend could be asking to move in with you instead. That

Duane “Cash” Holze & Todd “Carry” Holze 10/04/20 10/05/14 ©The Classified Guys®

could be an even bigger problem.

Carry: While you and your friend may get along well, it's clear the two of you have different views on how to accomplish the same task. While you may choose to review all of the options, your friend operates differently. He seems to be much more of a "shoot from the hip" type of guy.

Cash: There are other dynamics in his decision to consider as well. The first time he needed an apartment, he was in the midst of a divorce. It's quite possible that finding a place to settle was more important than the price.

Carry: Upon his latest search, the situation is once again compli-

Fast Facts Room for Rent

Reader Humor Looking Up

New York City is home to some of the most expensive apartments in the world. Take the set of twin buildings on Central Park West for example. Facing the famous park, apartments in these buildings can list for well over $100 million dollars. Besides the full-time doorman, luxuries include use of a 20-seat private theatre, 20 wine cellars (sold separately), 29 staff suites (sold separately), room service, a private in-house chef, a fully stocked library and a health club with a 75-foot lap pool.

My mom is the type of person who finds a bright side to everything. I asked her to help me look for an apartment since, in my price range, I could use some optimism.

The first place had a hole in the door where the peep hole used to be. Peering through, my mom commented, "Well at least you can see who's at the door."

The second place wasn't much better. The neighbor's music blasted through the walls.

There was my mom again who said, "At least you won't need a stereo."

The last place was the nicest, and I was about to take it when a cockroach ran across my mom's shoe. However, instead of screaming, she just looked at me and said, "Oh look honey, they allow pets!"

(Thanks to Bill S.)

Going Up cated. With a new person in his life who is going to share the space with him, the final choice has to accommodate both of them.

Cash: When it comes to friends, like family, you have to accept them the way they are. However, if you truly feel your friend is headed down the wrong road with longterm consequences, then you should share your insight when he asks.

Carry: Otherwise, if your friend's apartment is too expensive or too big, then he'll learn that for himself soon enough. In the meantime, just hope you get invited over to enjoy the roomy new place.

Penthouse suites have long been associated with the rich or famous.

However, that wasn't always the case. Until elevators were available around 1920, the penthouses were usually the least desirable place to live. The idea of walking up flights of stairs didn't appeal to the wealthy. The higher floors were typically reserved for storage or occupied by starving artists, servants and those strapped for cash. Today the top floors are sought after and can cost an extra 10% to 20% over other areas in the building.

•

•

Laughs For Sale

•

Got a question, funny story, or just want to give us your opinion? Email us at: comments@classifiedguys.com.

Isn't 4 bedrooms more than one horse really needs?

ADY! HORSE RE 2 acres n o e 4 bdrm hom rking shop. o w d o w/wo

www.ClassifiedGuys.com APARTMENTS Adult Only Buildings at 5310-46 St and 4917 – 61 Ave in Vegreville.

Bachelor, 1 & 2-bedroom suite.

Rent start from $645 to $825, DD Same. Rent incl. Water, heat and Energized pkg stall. Call 780-9186328 or 780-632-6878.

AUTOMOBILES 2000 Windstar. Ex. engine & transmission. Body damage. For parts $750. 780-922-5999 2008 Dodge Calibar. Automatic.

Loaded. 150,000 Kms. Clean. $5200.

780-994-3005 2002 Honda Civic, Standard Drives Excellent Needs TLC $3200 780922-5999 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 2005 Mercedes Smart Car diesel, automatic, black, 192,000kms, $3900. 780-994-3005

AUTO PARTS

COMMERCIAL GREAT LOCATION, READY TO GO! Health forces sale of Northeast Oregon 2-acre commercial property on corner lot. 40+ years RV sales & service business. Property includes 3-bay shop, sales office with 4 offices, retail parts store, 28x66 home in fenced-off area on lot. Super opportunity! $750,000.

Ask for Tim, call 1-800-338-6562 (business), or 541-231-3839 (cell).

Milton-Freewater, OR

ADVERTISE YOUR GARAGE SALE! 3 CHOICES OF ADVERTISING PACKAGES. Call us today at 780-632-2861 or email us at ads@newsadvertiser.com End of season Village of Innisfree community-wide garage sales.

October 10th 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Maps available. COVID-19 best protections in place.

GRAIN BINS 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.

CONDOS Fully furnished an option, one bedroom condo for rent - $600 per month. Dishwasher, washer & dryer, TV, microwave, new hardwood floors, recently painted. Parking available with plug-in. Must see!

Contact Jeff at 780-657-2934

FEED

Ram Hood Ornament For Sale.

Brand New - Never Been Used. Any Offers? Call Pat at 1-780-657-2934

GARAGE SALE

Wanted. Oats, Peas, Wheat, Barley, Canola: Dry, Wet, or Heated.

AlbertaFeedGrain.com 1-888-4838789 Hay for sale. No rain. West of Mundare. Barry 780-913-4625

Custom Bin Moving 14’–19’ Hoppers/Bins. New and used bins for sale. Wayne (cell) 780-632-0455 5 Steel Bins, Wooden Bottom, 2 2300 bu. $4,000 ea. 3 - 2000 bu. $3,000 ea. To Be Moved. 780-9963716

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

LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT

PERSONAL

Looking for used milking equipment. In Two Hills. John Giesbrecht 780-625-6201

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GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 100 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888889-5515 VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 100 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Espanol

HOMES FOR RENT Advertise your rental property here for as little as $7.95 per week!

FOOD

4 Bedroom House for Rent in Mundare. $800/mo. No smoking.

No pets. No utilities included.

Phone 780-632-0512

Garden potatoes, 40 lb sacks for $25.00 587-280-0488

Two Bedroom, Two Bath, Full basement $1000/mo. DD same 587-2805551

Retired single Ukrainian gentleman (73) looking for a non-smoking female companion 65 and up.

Enjoys outdoors, coffee, and cultural events. Have own vehicle and enjoys road trips. Box 1060 Redwater, AB T0A 2W0

SANDY LAKE TWO HILLS COUNTY. LAKEFRONT

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V

TRUCKS

FIREWOOD. 2 FIRE PITS. POWER

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

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

WITH YARD LIGHTS. OUTDOOR

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New authors wanted! Page Publishing will help self-publish your book. free author submission kit! Limited offer! 866-951-7214

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PICTURES CAN BE SEEN ON KIJIJI. $75,500

EXCEPT

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MACHINERY For Sale: 750 Massey combine.

Shedded. Low hours. Field ready. $5,000 OBO 780-658-2253

MISC. Reach millions of homes nationwide with one easy, affordable buy in the NANI Network! For more information go to www.afcp.org/nani

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.

780-922-5999 2004 Chev 4 x 4, new t/case, canopy, $3200. PH: 780-994-3005 2002 F250 Crew cab, 7.3 diesel.

Loaded. 410,000kms. $6500 PH: 780-994-3005

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

october 7, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Rural Physician and Health Professionals Committee Requests Financial Support Michelle Pinon News Advertiser The Physician and Health Professionals Attraction & Retention Committee has requested funding from the Town of Vegreville.

The committee thanked council for its financial support in recent years in a letter stating, “Your support has been invaluable to enable us to continue to recruit new physicians to our community.”

The letter went on to say, “We would like to respectfully request the financial support from the Town for the next three years.

Our goal is to look ahead of future needs for our community for doctors and health professionals to ensure needs are addressed.”

As to how much money the committee would like to receive, it was not specified in the letter of request. The committee has received $78,125 since 2012 from the Town of Vegreville. A total of $20,000 was granted in April of 2012 and $58, 125 was granted in 2013.

Councillor Ann Waters is the current representative for the town on the committee and stated, “We struggle with obtaining physicians and health professionals to a rural community.

We try to offset this by holding meet and greets with prospective health professionals, host a skills day at our local hospital for university students, and host a skills day at our local hospital for our high school students who are looking to embark on the health care field.

We have had a major success with having a Health Care Aide Program in Vegreville. We were in partnership with Norquest and had seven students of which all were employed locally during their studies or right after. This is a huge accomplishment as Alberta has a large shortage of Health Care Aides, and we were fortunate to have our own local people able to take the course at home and be employed at home. This is something that we will be engaging with Norquest again once we are able to align the course with COVID regulations.”

Coun. Waters said the committee had hosted a “Welcome” event a couple of years ago for all new health professionals who have been working in Vegreville for the last five years

and less. It was surprisingly neat to see the new connections that were made.”

The committee has ten plus members with an array of representation from Vegreville Town Council, Minburn County Council, Alberta Health Services (AHS), Vegreville Family Clinic, St. Joseph’s General Hospital, Primary Care Network (PCN), Covenant Health Foundation, Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP), and the Yellow Head East Association.

The committee began as an adhoc committee of council in 2005 to deal with the doctor shortage and has evolved into the community committee it is today.

These are just a few of the things we do. We are here to help all Physicians and Health Professionals get a good start in Vegreville and we are here to help them as they need us. We still have a shortage of physicians and hope to have the positions filled as quickly as possible. We all know that Vegreville is a great place to work, live, and play. We just need to get the word out farther.”

In a report to council Sept.28, Coun. Waters said they need one or two doctors and will be advertising those positions. Currently, one doctor is waiting to be placed on a three-month clinical assessment. “In October exams are happening and maybe we’ll have more applications once that takes place.”

She also reported the hospital is at 90 to 100 percent capacity. “The majority of those are seniors waiting for placement.

So that’s taking up a lot of vital beds right there for sure.”

News Advertiser PAGE 15

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News Advertiser

october 7, 2020

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Tributes MEMORIAM

KOWAL, Marietta Julia September 8, 1956 - October 5, 2015 Dear Sister In Heaven I sit here and ponder how very much I’d like to talk with you today There are so many things That we didn’t get to say.

I know how much you care for me And how much I care for you, And each time that I think of you I know you’ll miss me too.

An angel came and took you by the hand, and said Your place was ready in Heaven, far above…

And you had to leave behind, All those you dearly loved You had so much to live for, You had so much to do…

It still seems impossible that God was taking you, And though your life on earth is past, In Heaven it starts anew You’ll live for all eternity, Just as God has promised you, And though you’ve walked through Heaven’s gate We are never far apart For every time I think of you, You’re right here, deep within my heart.

Love Marianne, Audrey, Lorraine & Leonard

In loving memory of GALICHOWSKI, Joseph who passed away October 6, 2015 To lose someone special Is really hard to bear.

As days turn into years, now five, we take comfort in the thought of all the memories we have And the happiness you brought.

Although you’re no longer here, your influence still guides us and we know you are watching over us.

What we shared will never die, it lives within our hearts.

- ‘Till we meet again So sadly missed Sonja & Family

CHATER, Eileen In loving memory of my dear wife who passed away October 2, 2010.

Dear Eileen, Since you were called away; How well do I remember That sad and weary day, Suffering much, you murmured not, We watched you day by day; We prayed that your dear life.

Would not be taken away.

Forever loved and missed by your husband Ray and Family

MEMORIAM

OBITUARY

KOWAL In Loving Memory Marietta Julia Kowal September 8, 1956 – October 5, 2015 Gone, dear wife, gone forever, How we miss your smiling face, But you left us to remember None on earth can take your place.

A happy home we once enjoyed-How sweet the memory still-But death has left a loneliness The world can never fill.

Always loved, Jim

TOMA, Pearl (Hayduk) January 21, 1933 - September 30, 2020 Pearl Toma of Edmonton, Alberta (formerly of Willingdon) passed away peacefully at the age of 87 years. She is survived by her seven children, Audrey (Barry) Sirant of Westlock, Veronica Toma of Edmonton, Bernard (Lorna) Toma of Bonnyville, Sharon (Andrew) Hoetmer of Clyde, Dennis Toma of Edmonton, Darlene (Chuck) Beach of Penticton BC and Susannah (Wayne) Shank of Edmonton; fifteen grandchildren, Colleen, Connie, Teri, Allan [Sirant], John, Andrew [Toma], Shane, James, Casey, Darryl [Hoetmer], Aaron, Adrien, Arick [Yasinski], Marie, Christopher [Shank]; twenty great-grandchildren; two sisters, Elsie and Rosalind; one brother, Jerry; and numerous nieces and nephews. Pearl was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, John J; one great-grandson, Maverick Yasinski; her parents, Fred and Mary Hayduk; five sisters, Helen, Cassie, Anne, Olga and Mary; and five brothers, Walter, Bill, Mike, Peter and Steve.

Prayer Service Friday, October 9 at 7:00 p.m. at Park Memorial Chapel, 9709 – 111 Avenue, Edmonton. Due to the current guidelines, attendance for the prayer service is limited to Pearl’s children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, nieces and nephews. A Private Funeral Service for Pearl’s children and grandchildren will be held at St. Mary’s Romanian Orthodox Church of Boian with Reverend Father M. Panciuk officiating with interment in the Church Cemetery.

The family appreciates your understanding regarding the restricted attendance. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com.

Park Memorial Edmonton 780-426-0050 Family Owned Funeral Home Crematorium, Reception Centre

In Loving Memory Marietta Julia Kowal September 8, 1956 - October 5, 2015 Remember her with a smile today She was not one for tears Reflect instead on memories Of all the happy years Recall to mind the way she spoke And all the things she said Her strength, her stance, the way she walked, Remember these instead.

The good advice she’d give us Her eyes that shone with laughter So much of her will never die But live on ever after As we loved you, so we miss you In our memory you are near.

Loved, remembered, longed for always Bringing many a silent tear.

Always Loved, Jim & Family

OBITUARY

ANDRUCHOW, Ella Helene May 2, 1918 – October 2, 2020 On Friday, October 2, 2020, Ella Andruchow of Mundare, Alberta peacefully passed away at the age of 102 years.

Ella is survived by her loving family, son Brian (Barbara); six grandchildren James (Rachel), Kimberly (Paul) Andrews, Kristine (Curtis) Rakievich, Carmen (Keith) Laarhuis, Candace Andruchow and Daniel Andruchow; four great-grandchildren Ella, Emma, Christopher and Luke; brother Arthur Hennig; sisters-in-law Anne Hennig and Olga Hennig; along with numerous nieces, nephews and relatives. Ella was predeceased by her husband Frank Andruchow; parents Adolf and Helene Hennig; siblings Elmer (Helen), Laura (Don) Lennie, Harold (Elizabeth), Albert, Arnold, Alice (Paul) Cherwaty; sister-in-law Sharon Hennig.

Ella was a passionate about many things, she enjoyed cooking and loved to bake and garden. She cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and enjoyed many visits from them. She had many stories to share and enjoyed being young at heart. She has passed on her strong will and wittiness onto her family who will miss her dearly.

A Private Funeral Service will be held at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Bruderheim, Alberta with Pastor Jeff Dull officiating. Interment to follow in the Bethlehem Lutheran Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to “Haying in the 30’s Cancer Support Society.”

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. VEGREVILLE,780-603-5800

OBITUARY

USKIW, Helen (Elaine) June 6, 1923 – October 1, 2020 On Thursday, October 1, 2020, Helen Uskiw of Mundare/Vegreville, Alberta passed away at the age of 97 years.

Helen is survived by one son Fred (Adeline) and their sons Trace and Ian; one daughter Sharon (Vern) Bohaychuk and their children Christal (Randy) Jenkins, Jamie and Justin (Summer); she is also survived by her deceased son Bill’s daughter Lisa (Jason) Meyer; nine great-grandchildren; brother Bill (Olga) Rawluk; sisterin-law Edna Rawluk.

Helen was predeceased by her husband Nick; son Bill; parents Alex and Annie Rawluk; brother Tommy Rawluk and grandson Edward Uskiw.

The family would like to thank the Vegreville Homestead Lodge, Home Care, St. Joseph’s Hospital and staff for their care and compassion.

A Public Viewing will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2020 from 6 - 8 p.m. at Autumn Rose Funeral Home in Vegreville, AB. Due to AHS guidelines, a private Funeral Service will be held at Autumn Rose Funeral Home with Rt. Rev. Fr. Slawomir Lomaszkiewicz officiating. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to “Holy Dormition of St. Mary Ukrainian Orthodox Church - Sich Kolomea” or “Vegreville Homestead Lodge.”

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com AUTUMNN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. VEGREVILLE,780-603-5800

KOSTIW, Korinda Carolyn January 18, 1986 - September 18, 2020 Korinda will be lovingly remembered by her Husband, Dustin Kostiw; Son, Austin Kostiw. Her parents, Todd and Annette Tetz; Brother, Sid & Elena Tetz (Nikolai/ Sidney); Grandparents Warren and Carol Tetz, and Nellie Braaksma; Father and Mother In-Law Edward and Colleen Kostiw; Sister In-Law Tracy & Scott Pollock (Ryder and Declan); Sister In-Law Shelley & Vince Edwards (Ethan, Seth & Grace); Sister In-Law Ashley & Morgan Penner. She was predeceased by her Great Uncle Ton Van Orizande, Grandfather Sid Braaksma, and Cousin Saxon Jenkinson.

Korinda was raised in Sherwood Park, AB. She graduated from Salisbury Composite High School with honors and received her Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University with English major. Korinda was passionate about communications and media. She specialized in this field as a Digital Accountant Manager with Bell. In addition to her corporate role she was also a driven entrepreneur. She founded Blue Tongue Photobooth capturing memories for many incredible events with her team. Most important to Korinda was being a dedicated Mother and Wife. She treasured Dustin and Austin and embraced every moment they spent together. She loved teaching Austin gardening skills, helped him do school work, created arts and crafts, baked, and being his cheerleader in all sports. Her adventurous spirit carried her around the world. Korinda was a formidable, beautiful, and vivacious woman with a zest and passion for life. Her strength and faith were an unparalleled example to all, and she led with the kindest and most generous heart. She enjoyed being involved in many local groups like Chicks with Cheques, Prayer Group, Santa’s Anonymous and CIBC Run For a Cure to name a few.

Your Sparkle will live in our hearts forever.

VAN REEUWYK, Ashley (nee Stumbo) July 26, 1983 – October 4, 2020 It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the family of Ashley van Reeuwyk of Camrose Alberta, announce her passing at the age of 37 on October 4, 2020. Ashley is survived by her loving family, her husband Matt, daughter Adria, son Jack, father Barry and grandmother Leona Stumbo. Ashley was predeceased by her mother Noreen, grandfather Jack Stumbo and Baba Susan Frebrowski.

Ashley obtained her Master’s Degree at the U of A and worked for Alberta Health Services, but utmost, she was a devoted wife, mother and daughter. Her family was her life. Ashley you will be forever missed, forever loved and forever a part of our lives.

A special thanks to Dr. Letley, St Mary’s Hospital Chemo clinic, Jen, Tabea and the Camrose Community that continues to support our family through this difficult time.

Due to Covid 19, a private memorial service will be held.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made for Ashley’s children at CIBC or a donation to a Charity of one’s choice.

october 7, 2020

News Advertiser PAGE 17

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

OBITUARY

MEGLEY, Harry N. On September 26, 2020 Harry N. Megley of Andrew, AB passed away at the age of 95. A copy of his eulogy is on the Arbor Memorial website where condolences can also be posted. A virtual Funeral Service will be held on October 17, 2020 at 2 pm. To join in the service please download the free Zoom app. The ID and passcode for the service can be found at https://www.arbormemorial. ca/en/evergreen/obituaries/harry-n-megley/56119 Evergreen Funeral Home | Arbor Memorial Inc. 16204 Fort Road, RR#6, Site 2, Box 20, Edmonton AB T: (780) 472-9019

Kathy’s

40 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Dog Training Innisfree

Private and Group Lessons Basic to Advanced Training

780-592-2360 kathysclasses50@gmail.com

PAGE 18

News Advertiser

october 7, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

VALID Virtual Annual General Meeting Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent VALID held its Annual General Meeting by way of video conferencing on September 30.

The meeting began with Board Chair Bert Vinet welcoming everyone. “This past year we welcomed our new PDD, (Persons With Developmental Disabilities) representative, Barb Holmberg, who has been, and will be an incredible support for years to come.”

Vinet went on to say many activities have taken place in the past few months such as the installation of air conditioning at the north residence, west residence, and the administration building.

“Also, furniture upgrades were purchased for the residences, Pot-O-Gold Store received a new roof, we purchased a van, Soup-on-the-Run and Cookie Day was added to our employment programs, and six staff members successfully completed their foundation’s training. Congratulations on their achievements!

In mid-March, we had the COVID-19 lockdown which proved to be quite challenging for some of our individuals.

FARM LANDS TENER

By Century 21 Alta

VENDOR: LANDS:

Hal Hackman and Debra Hackman W4 R17 TWP56 S13 Q NW 2020 Property Tax Land Assessment - $27,150.00 W4 R17 TWP56 S23 Q SE 2020 Property Tax Land Assessment - $30,180.00

LOCATION:

County of Lamont, Alberta

POSSESSION: January 5, 2021 CONTACT:

Century 21 Alta, 780-632-7700 Tender packages can be picked up, faxed, mailed or emailed.

DEADLINE:

Tenders to be completed on the form provided in the tender package and must be received at: Century 21 Alta #2, 4946 – 52 Avenue, PO Box 399 VEGREVILLE, AB T9C 1R4 ATTENTION: Gus Borzel – Kody Kuchik

Salute to Front Line Workers Darren Berezan Darren Berezan, Owner of Vegreville Mechanical Ltd. (Rosanne Fortier/ Photo)

No later than 2:00pm on Friday, November 6, 2020

Bids will not be opened in public

Notice of Public Hearing Village of Innisfree Council

The Village of Innisfree is holding a Public Hearing on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at 5:00 PM and will be held at the Village of Innisfree Council Chambers located at 5116 - 50 Avenue.

The nature of business to be discussed is as follows: 1. Amendment to Land Use Bylaw 646-20 – Cannabis Production & Distribution 2. Amendment to Land Use Bylaw 655-20 – C3 – Highway Commercial: Change in Permitted and Discretionary Uses As per the Municipal Government Act Section 692 (1), Village Council is required to hold a public hearing as part of the process to approve or amend a land use bylaw or other statutory plans. The purpose is to receive comments on related land use and rezoning applications. All hearings are open to the general public and your attendance is encouraged as they are an opportunity to let Village Council know your views on various issues regarding land use and development. You are encouraged to submit your comments in writing to the Village Office prior to a hearing. Written submissions which have been received before the designated meeting time will be included in the report for the Public Hearing.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Village of Innisfree will allow virtual attendance via Teleconference. Should you wish to virtually attend, please phone 780-581-3380. To attend via other electronic means, please contact the Village Administration Office prior to the Public Hearing.

Copies of the Amendment Bylaw 646-20 and Amendment Bylaw 655-20 will be available online at www.innisfree.ca or at the Village of Innisfree Administration Office.

Thank you.

Mayor and Council

The retirement of our executive director has been a huge learning experience for both the board and our administrative team. Soon, we hope to have some wonderful news on the executive director’s position.

This past year has brought many new challenges throughout the agency. The staff and management team have been very creative, adaptable, supportive, and committed to serving our VALID individuals.

“When COVID-19 is finished, we most definitely will have an awards night recognizing our staff that have put in endless hours, concern, and care for our individuals.

Vinet presented the Election of Directors. The Slate of Officers are: Kathy Reesik for three years, Taneen Rudyk for three years, Rhonda Manz for two more years, and Val Miller for one more year.

The motion to approve the Slate of Directors was passed.

After this, some clients gave some testimonies of how they were doing. The clients said they are doing well, and they were keeping active and were happy and healthy.

october 7, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Historic Hunka Homestead Stands the Test of Time Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Travelling north of Vegreville on Secondary Highway 857 lies one of the most eye-catching and prominent landmarks around.

It’s the original homestead of Thomas and Maria Hunka who immigrated with their three sons from Ukraine in 1901.

The home was built in 1909 and has managed to stand the test of time.

According to the family tree, William Thomas and Alice Hunka followed in succession and were followed by Orest

and Elsie Hunka. The home remains in the family, and now Barry and Brenda Hunka farm the land it sits on.

The striking historical landmark is a very popular location for avid photographers, and many wedding parties have had their photos taken there.

The wooden structure is unstable and visitors are strongly advised not to go inside the home as it could collapse at any time. It’s best to view the home at a safe distance and to visualize all of the natural features of the countryside landscape.

The Hunka Homestead has stood on this piece of land north of Vegreville for 111 years.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

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october 7, 2020

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GROW ARENA PROJECT - CONTINUED from FRONT PAGE been able to raise $180,000 through the Grow Arena Project.

He was also excited to announce the final walk-through was done the other day, and the arena should be opening in about a month.

Webb’s Machinery is one of the major sponsors for the project, and had Randy Metrunec, Manager of the Vegreville

location, along with employee Jacob Krahn on site. They were joined by Dan Webb, Manager of Webbs Wainwright location, Morley Dennill with Agriterra, as well as Grow Arena Project volunteer Dustin Axley. Kitz said Highland Feeders kindly supplied the manpower and equipment to bale the straw.

Metrunec and Webb say they’re more

than happy to help. “Those are our customers and we want to support them as best we can.”

Kitz said, “It’s been a team effort.” The companies have supplied the seed, inputs, equipment, and manpower throughout the project, and he is very grateful for all of the support they’ve provided.

The Grow Arena Project is a subcommittee of the Two Hills & District Agricultural Society. Kitz said there have been several other fundraisers over the past five years and estimates that more than 100 volunteers have donated their time and talents to making it a success. Kitz estimates they’ve raised about $1.3 million to date, and expects fundraising to last for another two years.

The arena supports about 150 local athletes through a number of programs, from pond hockey to after school hockey, minor hockey, and recreational hockey. Kitz can hardly wait for the doors to re-open and give people in the community a great reason to smile.

NORTH POINTE VEGREVILLE

GRAND OPENING OCTOBER 11 at 10am | 4615 MAPLE STREET WWW.NP.CHURCH/VEGREVILLE KIDS PROGRAMS FOR GRADES 1-6 FREE DONUTS AND COFFEE NORTH POINTE CO M M U N I T Y C H U R C H

october 7, 2020

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

News Advertiser FEATURE PAGE 1

Vegreville Fire & Rescue

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News Advertiser FEATURE

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

october 7, 2020

The Businesses In This Section Would Like You To Practice Fire Safety

Vegreville Fire & Rescue

october 7, 2020

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

News Advertiser FEATURE PAGE 3

Vegreville Fire & Rescue

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News Advertiser FEATURE

october 7, 2020

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

Vegreville Fire Department Honours Alan Robert for 30 Years of Service Alan Robert is retiring after 30 years of service with the Vegreville Fire Department, (VFD).

Alan grew up in Vegreville. He has a wife, three grown children, and three grandchildren.

Alan is a retired professional technologist where he has built electrical sub-stations and generating stations all over the province with ATCO Electric for 40 years.

Alan started working as a firefighter with the VFD in September of 1990. When I asked Alan what inspired him to join the fire department, he said his father wanted him to join a service club in Vegreville but he was a bit of an introvert and didn’t feel these clubs suited him. “But one morning, I woke up and I heard the siren go off and I thought I could be a firefighter. This was the way I saw myself giving back to the community I lived in.”

“I had various roles in the fire department; I was a firefighter, lieutenant, captain, deputy chief,

and an intern fire chief. I have been lucky enough to gain enough and learn from each of the experiences I had with the VFD and I have tried my best with each of the roles.

When asked how it made him feel to be able to save lives and property, Alan replied, “Whenever you are involved in public service, you get the satisfaction of knowing you made your community a better place for those in their time of need.

“The blessings of being a firefighter are I get recognition from my family and friends. It can be a difficult job because in small towns quite often you will be involved with people you know for better or for worse. Also you have to stay mentally and physically healthy, train, put in extra hours, and be prepared to leave the dinner table or your warm and comfortable bed to response to a call.”

He said the fire department has always been a paid for service operation even if they are called volunteer firefighters. “You get paid by an on call concept. You get paid for practices, paid for fighting fires, accidents, and work like that. But you do put in volunteer hours when training or for steak fries and other events,” Alan said.

“I would recommend this calling to others. You have to be willing to put in the work. You get out of it what you put in. Good work, craftsmanship, and professionalism have its own reward.”

Alan said he feels bittersweet

about retiring from VFD. “It will be a bit challenging to stay away from the fire department. But I have a family and a full life. I will still go and work as a firefighter if VFC calls me in if a conflagration hits our community or area. I am a handy man and will volunteer for family and friends to help them with what

they need. Also, I plan to do a lot of gardening, a bit of traveling when the COVID-19 pandemic is over, fishing, hunting, and a bit of everything.”

Alan closed by saying his life is good and he has been very lucky.

Alan Robert is retiring after 30 years as a firefighter for VFD. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Appreciating those who sacrifice their lives for us We are proud to support our Firefighters

www.vegreville.com

Vegreville Fire & Rescue

october 7, 2020

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

Serve Up Safety in the Kitchen National Fire Protection Association Submitted This year’s FPW campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!TM” works to educate everyone about the simple but important actions they can

take to keep themselves, and those around them, safe in the kitchen.

Did you know?

Cooking is the #1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries.

Unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen.

In a fire, mere seconds can mean the difference between a safe escape and a tragedy. Fire safety education isn’t just for school children.

Teenagers, adults, and the elderly are also at risk in fires, making it important for every member of the community to take some time every October during Fire Prevention Week™ to make sure they understand

how to stay safe in case of a fire.

Since 1922, the NFPA has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance, making it the longest-running public health observance in our country.

During Fire Prevention Week, children, adults, and teachers learn how to stay safe in case of a fire.

Firefighters provide lifesaving public education in an effort to drastically decrease casualties caused by fires.

Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage. This horrific conflagration killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land.

News Advertiser FEATURE PAGE 5

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october 7, 2020

Lamont County Emergency Services

Mundare Station

Back row from left to right: Deputy Chief Colin Zyla, Firefighter Andrea Conner, Firefighter Jorestin Brison, Deputy Chief Charlie Gargus, Captain Sean Brison, Firefighter Dwayne Hick, Firefighter Dartanin Brison, Firefighter Ken Podolsky, and Firefighter Brent Conner. Front row from left to right: Firefighter Brian Sharun, Safety Officer Dale McCarty, Fire Chief Glenda Dales, Fire Prevention Officer Trisha Ming- Brison, Firefighter Danika Brison, Firefighter Cheyenne Sharun, Firefighter Ryan Webb, and Firefighter Matt Onyskow.

Missing from the picture are: Firefighter Al Lenkewich, Training Officer Cam Pomeroy, Firefighter Brody Thurston, Firefighter Jason Warawa, and Firefighter Dale Morrison.

The Businesses In This Section Would Like You To Practice Fire Safety

Mundare Fire & Rescue

october 7, 2020

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

News Advertiser FEATURE PAGE 7

Training is Challenging, but Essential for Firefighters Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Training is always a challenge, but essential for today’s firefighters, just ask Mundare Fire Chief Glenda Dales.

She has been at the helm of the department for 35 years and says that while training is challenging, it is an essential component to effective firefighting techniques and necessary in order to operate all of the latest equipment.

Dales says they have been utilizing the Lamont County Emergency Services Training Centre near Chipman for some of the training in recent months. While most training can be conducted close to home, there are a few courses members will be travelling to attend. For example, two firefighters will be participating in training in Vauxhall, Alberta. There

they will be learning about heavy lifting, stabilization and shoring,

eight members trained in grain bin rescue techniques.

While training is challenging, it is an essential component to effective firefighting techniques and necessary in order to operate all of the latest equipment.

-Glenda Dales adds Dales.

Just before COVID hit, Dales says they were fortunate enough to have

So far this year, Mundare Fire & Rescue has responded to 37 calls.

Dales says call volume is down from

the previous year, which is good.

The department also took possession of a new fast attack/brush truck in December, and put into service in January. The new unit has been used for a few grass fires and for traffic control during motor vehicle incidents.

Hairy Hill Fire Department

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Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

october 7, 2020

october 7, 2020

News Advertiser FEATURE PAGE 9

Willingdon Fire Department Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

Fire-safety measures to implement at home News Advertiser A fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you with just a few minutes to safely evacuate. This means every member of your household needs to be prepared to act quickly in an emergency. If you haven’t done so already, here are four things you should do to protect your family.

1. Install an alarm system You should have at least one smoke alarm and one carbon monoxide detector on each floor of your home, as well as near the bedrooms. Regularly make sure they function by holding down the test button until the alarm goes off.

Always keep extra batteries in the house.

2. Buy a portable extinguisher

Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher on hand to quickly put out small fires before they cause extensive damage. Install it in a visible location out of the reach of children, ideally on a wall near an exit. Additionally, make sure you know how to use it.

3. Create an evacuation plan Draw a floorplan of your home that clearly identifies possible exits, escape

routes and a meeting point. This diagram should also note the location of fire extinguishers and alarms around the house. Conduct a fire drill at least once a year to ensure everyone can

evacuate your home within three minutes. These simple steps can help keep you and your family safe in the event of a fire.

Two Hills Fire Department

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News Advertiser FEATURE

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

october 7, 2020

Sitting atop truck from left to right: Firefighter Patrick Bretz, Firefighter Abraham Hamm, Junior Firefighter Frank Goertzen, Firefighter Abram Fehr, and Deputy Chief Ryan Morey.

Standing against truck from left to right: Firefighter BJ Laschowski, Deputy Chief Troy Soldan, Deputy Chief Josh Dadensky, Firefighter Bill Orr, Captain Jake Fehr, Captain Jeff Dolejsi, and Junior Firefighter Brook Dolejsi. Standing on the truck is Chief Marj Skoropadyk. Standing in the front row from left to right: Firefighter Ranny Bourassa, Firefighter and EMT Keegan Thompson, and Firefighter Peter Fehr. Missing from the picture are: Firefighter Colin Candy, Firefighter Ed Horbesenko, Firefighter Enrique Klassen, and Firefighter Franz Guenter.

The Businesses In This Section Would Like You To Practice Fire Safety

Two Hills Fire Department

october 7, 2020

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

News Advertiser FEATURE PAGE 11

Two Hills Firefighter Pillar of Strength and Support

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Ed Horobasenko has been a main stay in the Two Hills Fire Department for well over 55 years.

“Uncle Ed,” as he is affectionately known, joined the fire department in 1963. “At the time I was teaching already.”

Ed said he liked to do all kinds of things, dabbling in taxidermy and a few other things, but wanted another hobby, so he thought he’d try his hand at firefighting.

Admittedly, the main reason Ed said he wanted to join the department was because, “I wanted to give back to the community.”

When he first joined the department he was appointed deputy fire chief and secretary-treasurer. At the time they were paid $2 a practice, and they had 2 practices a month.

They also received $2 per hour for fighting fires. So, money was not a motivating factor, added Ed. Back in the early days there were no training courses, so it was completely hands-on, learning by trial and error. “I watched other members to see what they were doing.”

There have also been many advancements in equipment over the years which has made a big difference for firefighters. Ed said the introduction of the jaws of life didn’t come into play until the 1980’s. The county also purchased large ticket items, with the town pitching in when they could. He remembers when they received a new fire truck with a 1,500 gallon water tank in 1983.

Every year members of the department would host a dinner and silent auction. He always headed up the silent auction. “It was a good feeling to know when you cleared over $2,000 because then we could buy stuff for the department.”

When he first joined he remembers, “We just had an old building. It just about burn’t down, but we saved it.” Ed said something caught fire in the basement, but fortunately they were able to put out in time. They were also fortunate to save one of the firefighters that had gone down into the basement. “There was a trap door so a couple of us were looking down the hold and saw him fall down.” Luckily, the firefighter was still holding onto the rope so they could hoist him back up the hole to safety.

Ed said during his time with the department eight businesses and four rural homes were destroyed by fire.

In 1974 a new fire hall was built in the community. The building has been added onto over the years, and it continues to serve as the headquarters of the fire department.

What Ed said he cherishes the most about serving on the department, “Is being able to be a part of helping the community as best I could.” In 2013, Ed received a plaque from the County of Two Hills to commemorate his 50 years of service. The Two Hills Fire Department presented him with a plaque and a statue to formally recognize his longstanding service to the department and the community at large.

Ed has been married to Geraldine for 60 years. Together they have three children and four grandchildren.

Myrnam Fire Department

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Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

october 7, 2020

The Businesses In This Section Would Like You To Practice Fire Safety

Mannville Fire Department

october 7, 2020

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

News Advertiser FEATURE PAGE 13

Thanksgiving Safety The kitchen is the heart of the home, especially at Thanksgiving. Kids love to be involved in holiday preparations. Safety in the kitchen is important, especially on Thanksgiving Day when there is a lot of activity and people at home.

• • • •

Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.

Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.

Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.

Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids.

The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.

Did

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News Advertiser FEATURE

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

County of Minburn

october 7, 2020

Innisfree - Fire & Rescue

Why cleaning your chimney is a must News Advertiser

If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace in your home, you should have your chimney cleaned by a professional at least once a year. Here’s why.

To remove creosote Every time you use your wood stove or fireplace, smoke and soot build up inside the flue. This residue, known as creosote, is highly flammable and the primary cause of chimney fires. In addition, sweeping your chimney ensures that smoke and carbon monoxide are ventilated outside your home.

It should be noted that even a thin layer of creosote is a fire hazard. So while almost anyone can use a chimney brush, a thorough

sweep by a professional is necessary to ensure your chimney is safe to use.

To identify defects Once all the creosote is removed, the chimney sweeper can inspect the components of the ventilation system. This includes the interior ducts and the chimney cap outside.

The purpose of this inspection is to

identify any damage or deterioration and make necessary repairs.

While you should have your chimney cleaned and inspected once a year, additional maintenance may be required if you fre¬quently use your stove or fireplace during the winter. This will ensure your home and family are safe.

october 7, 2020

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

News Advertiser FEATURE PAGE 15

Corporate Sponsorship has Huge Impact for Minburn County Fire Departments Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Minburn County Regional Director of Protective Services Mike Fundytus says corporate sponsorship has had a huge impact on operations this past year.

“The corporate sponsorship has a huge impact on operations as it offsets the cost of equipment which allows us to focus budget money on recruitment and retention of volunteers and training for our volunteers.”

Enbridge donated $7,500 for the purchase of an ultra-high pressure wildland firefighting skid unit. Fundytus says the wildland skid unit goes in the back of the county command unit.

It enables a faster response time as typically I am available to respond directly with it rather than having to respond to a fire hall and jump into one of our traditional fire apparatus.”

The county also paid for a Mavic Enterprise Dual Drone. Fundytus says, “The drone is equipped with a 4K high-resolution camera as well as a thermal camera. The drone will have a variety of uses with the integrated thermal camera.”

For example, “In large wildland fires, it will allow us to quickly get an idea on the size of the fire, direction of the fire, people or property

threatened by the fire. It will allow incident commanders to make quicker decisions with real-time information on where to best deploy our resources to extinguish the fire faster. We can pinpoint hot spots more efficiently. It can be utilized in Search and Rescue operations for patient location as our closest Search and Rescue teams are based out of Edmonton or St Paul,” explains Fundytus.

ATCO also made a substantial donation to the Innisfree Fire Department to pay for new turnout gear. The $5,000 donation allowed for all of the firefighters to have new gear. “As per National Fire Protection Association, (NFPA) standards turnout gear has a 10-year life span.

We had multiple sets in Innisfree and Mannville that were past there service life, we implemented a 5-year replacement plan with the Innisfree and Mannville departments with the support from ATCO we were able to accelerate the Innisfree replacement program to 3 years and now the whole department is in NFPA certified gear.”

Fundytus went on to say, “Innisfree Fire had multiple tools and equipment mainly their hydraulic extrication tools (Cutter, Spreader, and Ram) stolen around December 26, 2019, from their fire hall. We replaced these with

more modern electric extrication tools in January the cost to replace these tools was approximately $35,000.00. Insurance covered approximately $31,000.00 for the stolen extrication tools.”

In addition to corporate sponsorship, Fundytus wanted to personally thank all of the volunteers from Vegreville, Mannville, and Innisfree for their service in protecting the residents and visitors of Minburn County.

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News Advertiser FEATURE

Fire Prevention Week - Salute to Firefighters

october 7, 2020

Installation of New Roofing System at Mundare Arena

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CARRIER APPRECIATION DAY OCTOBER 10, 2020

Labourer Tom Wilson of MJ Construction from Edmonton was installing galvanized flashing and roof panels on the Mundare Arena on Sept. 16. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Installation of a new $60,000 roofing system at the Mundare Arena began in mid-September.

Mundare Agricultural Society President Peter Polischuk said the upgrades are “long overdue” and he is looking forward to the opening of the skating season on Oct. 15.

The arena was built in 1974 and is home to several minor hockey and

adult recreational hockey teams.

Polischuk says players range in age from 5 years to 50 years. The agricultural society also offers public skating sessions and provides rental of its meeting room.

Polischuk said partial funding for the project was received under the Community Facility Enhancement Program. The general contractor for the project is Vegreville based Vantage Builders Ltd.