Triumphant Return of Female Hockey in Vegreville
(Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
October 19 marked the triumphant return of female hockey in Vegreville as members of the Wranglers U-13 girls team faced-off against the Lakeland Jaguars at Wally Fedun Arena.
Before taking to the ice for the game, Jerri Ziegler, offered these words to team members: “Have fun, enjoy this time together. You won’t forget it.” Ziegler is the past coach and manager of an all-female squad that played three seasons from 2003-2005.
It has been 18 years since Vegreville had a female hockey team, and Wranglers Head Coach Trevor Zacharkiw, wanted to thank Ziegler for her commitment and service to female hockey. Ziegler was also given the honour of dropping the puck during a ceremonial faceoff shortly before the game got underway.
Interestingly, Ziegler said it was her daughter Kayla who told her she wanted to play girls hockey. Ziegler told her they would need more than just her to play, and
WHAT’S INSIDE
Please Help Us Find Mike Current
Mike, A 53 year old man, approx 5’7” tall and 150 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes and has been missing since July 26, 2024 between 5:00 & 8:00 p.m. He was wearing oversized black shorts, a black golf shirt and a baseball cap. Mike went missing from his home on 50th St. in the north part of Vegreville. He recently had dental surgery and was in considerable pain. Mike is diabetic so may be weak, and possibly confused or exhibiting slurred speech.
If you have any information regarding Mike’s whereabouts, please call 911
hauling a sea-can weaving all over the highway. Members made patrols but were unable to locate the semi. Members notified the company about the compliant.
October 14
10:54 – Report of property damage in a twovehicle collision in Vegreville. Damage was deemed “non-reportable” and there were no injuries.
11:46 – Report of someone going through their vehicle overnight. Vehicle had been left unlocked and the owner found papers and items thrown everywhere. It did not appear that anything had been stolen.
15:55 – Report of trespassing where a subject was walking through the complainant’s yard. No contact was made.
18:11 – Saskatchewan RCMP requested Vegreville members to make a Next of Kin notification.
October 15
11:36 – Break and Enter reported at a commercial location in Vegreville. Under investigation.
12:31 – Report of a subject pan handling and smoking outside a business in Vegreville. Member responded and asked the subject to leave. They left and the complainant was updated.
13:09 – Report of suspicious people in a black car acting strange near the complainant’s home in Vegreville. Members attended and spoke to the subjects who indicated that their car was just out of fuel and someone was bringing them some.
14:26 – Report of a work trailer being stolen over the weekend. It was locked while parked at a Vegreville location.
15:03 – Report of an abandoned vehicle left behind his house in Hairy Hill. License plate number provided. Members attended and determined the truck and trailer had been stolen. Vehicle returned to registered owner.
17:00 – Report of fuel being stolen from equipment over the weekend. Complainant reported approximately 500 – 1,000 litres of fuel was stolen. CCTV being reviewed.
October 16
11:46 – Report of a semi with Ontario plates
13:33 – Client attended the detachment to report two license plates that had been lost/stolen from ATVs over the summer. Entered into the RCMP database.
20:05 – Wellbeing check requested on a neighbour in an apartment. Members attended and confirmed the subject was OK.
21:11 – Report that someone known to the complainant stole items from their residence. Under investigation.
21:37 – 911 noise compliant from a lodging establishment in Vegreville. Complainant can hear loud music coming from the east. No other information provided. Caller then indicated that the music stopped. Police no longer needed.
October 17
04:04 – Report of the Complainant’s bank card being stolen and used at a Vegreville retail outlet. CCTV obtained of the subject using the card and driving while prohibited. Unable to locate the subject. Warrant will be sought.
05:25 – Report from a Bank in Vegreville that a male was sleeping in the vestibule and refusing to leave. Members attended and detained the subject. The subject was issued a ticket for trespassing.
08:02 – Report of a white semi with sleeper pulling a trailer passing a school bus while the bus had red crossing lights turned on.
09:00 – Report of a SUV stolen. Vehicle added to the RCMP database and statement obtained. Neighbourhood inquiries made. Under investigation.
15:06 – Report of a male laying down and not moving near the outdoor rink in Vegreville. Members attended but did not locate the subject. Patrols turned up negative.
20:05 – Report of attempted fraud where the female subject attempted to use the complainant’s ID to purchase a vehicle. Under investigation.
22:41 – Report of two subjects knocking and yelling, asking to speak to someone. The person they were seeking was not there and the
subjects left without incident.
October 18
16:16 – Report of a rifle found by the complainant’s house. Member attended, seized the rifle which turned out to be a pellet gun. Serial number did not return any matches. Gun was cut up and disposed of.
16:51 – Report of jackets and work keys being stolen from a locked vehicle. Under investigation.
18:43 – Report of an abandoned, burned Jeep found on the property. The vehicle was not there five days ago. Under investigation.
October 19
11:31 - Report of a 1997 Ford pickup truck with Alberta plates stolen. Under investigation. 12:36 – Attempted theft reported. Complainant’s GMC Sierra had the door handle damaged, ignition torn apart. Members attended and seized gloves for forensics. Under investigation.
16:49 – Report of a stolen vehicle with subject believed to be the complainant’s daughter. Call back an hour later indicated that the vehicle had been returned and no charges were requested. 20:35 – Report of a door being kicked in and two unknown subjects running away. Members conducted patrols which turned up negative. CCTV shows a single person with face covered walk up to the door, before kicking it and running away.
23:50 – Report of someone banging on garage door. Complainant stated they were being stalked by unknown individual. Patrols of the area conducted by members.
During the week there were 61 calls for service made in total including: 1 false 911, 0 false alarms, 0 animal strikes, 3 relationship violence, 6 calls under the Mental Health Act or related to mental health, and approximately 6 tickets or warnings from traffic enforcement.
The RCMP encourages members of the community to contact them if they have any information on files listed in the Blotter.
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.
Citizens take Action to Protect Their Community
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Pat and I will be working in conjunction with the RCMP’s crime prevention liaison to complete the crime prevention assessment.
A string of vehicle thefts in the Village of Chipman in late summer prompted local residents to take action, resulting in the formation of the Chipman Night Watch group.
Spokesperson for the volunteer group, Jane Doe (not her real name) said she and her husband decided to join the group and participate in patrols after attending a meeting on Sept. 12. They were two of 18 individuals who signed up as members of the group.
We have discussed our mission, the request for crime specific information from the RCMP analytic department, the RCMP’s nightly patrols of Chipman and their professional recommendations. These discussions were with Cst. Annick Carignan and Inspector Barry LaRocque. The RCMP have been extremely supportive and helpful. Their input, patrols and involvement has been invaluable,” says Jane.
patrols but also warned them about the unpredictability of criminals in today’s world and urged them not to engage as the criminals could respond in a negative manner.
The first initial patrol was on Sept. 16, and Jane says there have been no other crimes committed in the community that she’s aware of since that time. The sole purpose of the group is to deter crime in the community of around 330 people.
“On Oct. 15 we met with village council and discussed our request for additional lighting, cameras and an emergency alert system. They have been very supportive and several members and their spouses have attended our meetings. Pat Tomkow, (Chief Administrative Officer for the Village of Chipman) and I have had several discussions regarding our group and observations. Both
Fort Saskatchewan RCMP Detachment Commander Inspector Barry LaRocque, says, “In Chipman, in September, there were a number of vehicle thefts from the Village in a short period of time. Some citizens organized some local patrols in hopes of deterring would be criminals from continuing to perpetrate crime in their community.
The citizens reached out to the Fort Saskatchewan Detachment to advise that there were some patrols being made to deter would be criminals.
The Fort Saskatchewan RCMP Detachment provided some suggestions to the citizens on what they could be looking for during their
The RCMP have resources who are trained in Crime Prevention Through Environment Design. These resources will assess a community’s preparedness in crime prevention strategies i.e. more lighting, cutting back bushes to prevent blind spots, locking and putting items away. The RCMP will conduct a community assessment to identify areas that could help with crime prevention and make recommendations as to implementing them.
The Fort Saskatchewan Detachment will also have their Criminal Intelligence Analyst conduct an analysis of the crime that happened in the community to highlight crime trends that strategies could be developed to counteract.
The Fort Saskatchewan RCMP commended the group for taking action in their community to help prevent crime from happening. It is nice to see people becoming involved in community safety.”
Poppy
Reeve and Deputy Reeve Sworn into Office
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Following the County of Minburn regular meeting on Oct. 21, the annual organizational meeting was held.
In addition to the selection of Reeve and Deputy Reeve, appointments to various internal and external boards and committees as well as public appointments and meeting dates took place. The only recommendation regarding conferences was not to send two councillors to the Alberta Association of Agriculture Societies Conference in 2025.
Div. 1 Councillor Joey Nafziger nominated Div. 3 Councillor Roger Konieczny for Reeve. There were no other nominations and Konieczny recited the oath of office and signed papers to that effect. Konieczny had been sitting as Reeve for several years prior to this year’s appointment.
Div. 2 Councillor Eric Anderson nominated Div. 7 Councillor Kevin Bentley as Deputy Reeve, and Div. 6 Councillor Carl Ogrodnick nominated Div. 5 Councillor Tara Kuzio as Deputy Reeve. Coun. Ogrodnick also made a motion to hold the voting by secret ballot and to have a recorded vote count. Both of his motions were passed by council. Coun. Bentley received four votes and Coun. Kuzio received three votes. Coun. Kuzio acted as Deputy Reeve for the past year.
The last council meeting for this term
of office will be held on Oct. 15, 2025. The Municipal election will be held on October 20, 2025. Chief Administrative Officer Pat Podoborozny informed council that mandatory training for elected officials needs to be completed prior to council’s first re-organizational meeting. Dates that have been selected for that training are: Oct. 23, 28 and 29, Nov. 4 and 6.
mandatory training.
Under the Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, requires mandatory orientation training for councillors. According to documentation from the Government of Alberta, amendments to the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and Local Authorities Election Act (LAEA) will come into force on Oct. 31, 2024.
Div. 6 Councillor Carl Ogrodnick asked CAO Podoborozny that mandatory training for elected officials be discussed when they meet with the Minister of Municipal Affairs, and that request was duly noted by the CAO. Coun. Ogrodnick stated that he did not see the value of
Thanks to the kind and generous support of the residents in the communities of Vegreville, Mundare, Andrew, Willingdon & Two Hills, our 2023 Poppy Campaign was very successful.
Total Donations of $19,978.63 less expenses have now or will be distributed in accordance with Regulations set out hereunder.
Money donated during the Royal Canadian Legion’s annual Poppy-Remembrance Campaign is placed in public trust funds. Some of the many ways this money is used to improve life for people in your community include:
•Provide assistance to needy ex-service members and their families.
•Purchasing medical equipment and/or appliances for Veterans.
•Supporting Mundare Air Cadets.
•Heros in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium (HiMarc)
•Awards Ceremony and Luncheon for Veterans and their families.
Under no circumstances are Poppy Funds used for the operation of the Branch or for the benefit of it’s members except as indicated above.
The 2024 Poppy Campaign will commence in Vegreville on October 25, 2024. A ceremony of Remembrance will be held at the Vegreville Social Centre, commencing at 10:30 am on November 11, 2024. We will be marching from the Legion to the Social Centre via the Cenotaph prior to the ceremony. Everyone is welcome to join us. Please be at the Branch ready to march at 9:30 a.m.
This is Cathy and Don with their horses, Johnny and Diesel. In 2023, they got a $5,121 profit shares cash payout from Vision, which they put towards their favourite pastime – mounted shooting. The sport involves shooting targets with blanks while racing a course. It’s a challenge that demands horsemanship and a skilled hand. It also demands a bit of cash, says Don, which puts a share of the profits right on target. What’s your share ?
Royal Canadian Branch No. 39
Reeve Roger Konieczny, left, administers oath of office to Deputy Reeve Kevin Bentley. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
90 Years Ago – October 30, 1934
Six years each in Prince Albert penitentiary was the sentence meted out to two men here last week, in connection with the holdup of the Canadian Bank of Commerce at Hairy Hill last month.
The new teacherage constructed at Brody for Mr. and Mrs. Ponich is expected to reach completion this week, enabling them to move in before winter comes in earnest.
The poster contest sponsored by the Ryley Chautauqua was very successful. Major Norbury of Edmonton judged the poster submitted with the results listed: 1st – Jack Doran; 2nd – Eva Cook; 3rd –Delvina Geary of Holden; 4th – Lillian Barnes; 5th – Emily Kuzyk; Annie Finchuk and Donald Johnson of Holden tied.
As a result of complaints that have become very frequent and persistent of late that grain is being graded in lower categories than warranted by conditions, the Vegreville Chamber of Commerce has arranged with the Board of Grain Commissioners to hold a public hearing in Vegreville at 2:00 pm on Saturday. The meeting will take place in the Town Hall.
75 Years Ago – October 26, 1949
A survey of barley varieties seeded over the Prairie Provinces has just been made by the Searle Grain Company as an addition to its annual survey of wheat varieties. The survey reveals that Montcalm occupies 23.8 percent of the acreage seeded to barley over the Prairie Provinces; OAC 21, 18.6 percent; Olli, 11.4 percent; Newal, 9.2 percent; Titan, 5.1 percent; and Hannchen, 4.9 percent.
The custom of wearing the poppy as the “Flower of Remembrance” has continued in Canada since 1923.
The entire proceeds contributed by the public in poppy sales in our area, less the cost of the poppies is retained by our branch for relief or other essential assistance to deserving ex-service men and women.
Sales of poppies and wreaths are expected to jump 25 percent over last year, according to Sandy Patch, Chairman of the Poppy Campaign in Vegreville. The prediction is based on the fact that sales increased 30 percent last year and insufficient supplies were available to meet the heavy demand. There was a particularly heavy sale of poppy wreaths due to the increased number of citizens of Vegreville who indicated a desire to dedicate a wreath at the Remembrance Day Service.
50 Years Ago – October 24, 1974
The clearance of the land east of the C.N. Building was commenced Friday by the Sunshine Club. Secretary of the Sunshine Club, Steve Uniat, said that the group had received permission to begin and since the weather was warm, they began. Mr. Uniat went on to day that “we acquired the land from C.N. by a lease. The land will be utilized by the club for lawn bowling, horse shoe pitching and for a barbeque area. The C.N. building itself, will become a clubhouse for the Sunshine Club where they will hold dances, crafts, bridge, and carpentry work.
Virgil Moshansky was elected Mayor of Vegreville for his third term in office with 1,112 votes. Mr. Moshansky defeated his opponent Sam Smolyk who received 571 votes.
Meet your local RCMP. After being stationed in St. Paul, Edmonton, and Ottawa, Constable Gordon Puttruff has lived in Vegreville for the past 5 years.
Some people hold down a job just for the money, while others work in a specialized field simply because they enjoy it, Constable Paul Hurl finds RCMP work interesting. He has resided in Vegreville for five months and previously was fresh out of training in Regina. Constable Hurl is active in hunting and rifle and pistol shooting. 25 Years Ago – October 26, 1999
A floor curling bonspiel held at the Sunshine Club last week attracted 20 teams from communities including Two Hills, Mundare, Andrew, Willingdon, Smoky Lake, Myrnam, and Vegreville.
Following Saturday’s 7-6 home game win against Lac La Biche, the Vegreville Rangers are tied in second place with a 4-2 record. Wainwright is first with a 4-1 record.
Mundare Councillors and town staff held an appreciation evening Sunday for Steve Lebid, a faithful town employee for the past 12 years. He resigned recently after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Brenda Dziwenka, Mundare councilor presented Steve with a quilt that shows him in front of the loader and tractor in front of the town shop. The town also presented him with a gold watch, inscribed with his name and years of service.
The Northern Lights Library System (NLLS) headquarters will be permanently based in Elk Point. Board members heard proposals from Vegreville, Vermilion, St. Paul, and Elk Point during a meeting Saturday before opting to remain in Elk Point. The organization was offered the 30,000-square-foot Pan-Canadian building for $1.00, said Vice-Chair Greg Michaud.
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.
Boiling Point
Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser – Opinion
For many people, if they are only consuming news from the mainstream media, it may not be apparent how tense things are around the world. The bulk of our news cycle is consumed with Canadian and US politics (has a winner been declared in BC yet?) or the multi-front wars that Israel is involved with. Even the latter has escalated recently. Of course, there is also the war in Ukraine which, despite not getting headlines in big media recently, it is still very much a growing concern.
Now, many people would be wrong in thinking that all of this is very far away and not something we should concern ourselves with, but just three weeks ago, a video was published from a US F-16 off the coast of Alaska. The video was taken from the cockpit of the jet as it was on an intercept when deployed by NORAD in response to a group of four Russian military aircraft detected and tracked in the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone in international airspace.
While such detections and interceptions are normal as countries conduct exercises and potentially test the response of their adversaries, what took place on September 23 was far from normal. While pacing the Russian Tu-95 bomber, a Russian Su-35 darted in from the left of the F-16 passing between the US jet and the Tu-95 coming within what was estimated to be 150’ of the F-16.
While NORAD released a statement calling the stunt dangerous and unprofessional, Russia described it as courageous in trying to drive away the F-16. In a period of about two weeks, NORAD reported four incidents of Russian aircraft operating near Alaska.
In the Middle East, Israel has stepped up attacks in southern Lebanon and continues in Gaza. Notably, last week the US increased their involvement by sending stealth bombers to hit hardened Houthi targets in Yemen. The US indicated the targets were underground weapons storage facilities housing advanced conventional weapons used to target military and civilian vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Further East to China and their 13-hour simulated blockade of Taiwan during military drills which had them deploy hundreds of vessels and aircraft in conjunction with Russia, pushing to within 24 nautical miles of Taiwan. In an odd move, the official China Coast Guard Weibo account (their version of X) posted an exercise route around Taiwan that formed the shape of a heart along with a message that was roughly translated to say, “Hello my sweetheart! Our patrol is our way of loving you.”
Shortly after these exercises a U.S. and Canadian warship sailed through the Taiwan Strait as they denounced the Chinese exercises. This transit of the strait is a regular maneuver despite China’s claims that both Taiwan and the strait belong to it. China also has an ongoing disputed boarder with India where tensions rise and fall regularly.
Finally, on to Ukraine, where the war continues, approaching 1000 days of occupation. In recent weeks, Ukraine has increased strikes on Russian territory with home-grown one-way drones, targeting multiple ammunition depots and energy targets used to fuel the Russian war machine.
Russia, who has reportedly seen over 750,000 casualties, (wounded or dead) does not seem to have limits to how many of their people they will sacrifice. Or do they? Recent reports by Russian Mil-Bloggers state, with video footage that up to 12,000 North Korean military personnel have entered Russia and being equipped in preparation for deployment to Ukraine. This is said to include 1,000 engineers, 1,000 Special Forces, and 10,000 infantry. South Korea analyzed the video available online and had confirmed that by using facial recognition they identified military personnel from North Korea.
In response, Ukraine has stated that since they entered into the Budapest Memorandum and gave up their nuclear arsenal in exchange for security guarantees, which are not being upheld, that they only have two paths moving forward. They expect to have the military of two nuclear powers on their soil (Russia and North Korea); therefore, one path is to regain their nuclear armaments or join NATO.
One has to wonder. Are we at a point where things are close
Shelter at Vegreville Skatepark
Once again, Vegreville Co-op helped the Vegreville community recently by donating the new Gazebo at the Vegreville Rotary Club Skatepark.
Rotary Past President Deanne Nichol expressed that The Rotary Club was thrilled to collaborate with Co-op on this initiative, which reflects their strong commitment to community development in Vegreville. “We are also grateful for the generous support of Bilyk Financial and Elk Island Community Foundation. Since its opening in September, (2023) the skatepark has attracted users of all ages from Vegreville and beyond, and the upcoming gazebo and tables will provide a welcoming space for visitors to relax and enjoy the facility.”
Vegreville Co-op Directors and Managers with members of Vegreville Rotary Club in the new gazebo. (Patti Johnston/Submitted Photo)
Poppies to Honour Veterans
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
The First Poppy Presentation was at Vegreville Council Chambers on October 17 where Terry Kuzyk, President of Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 39, pinned a poppy on the lapel of Mayor Tim MacPhee’s jacket.
This presentation reflects what they do on the National Stage. In Ottawa, for Dominion Command, they have the tradition of presenting the first poppy to Canada’s Governor General to commence the Poppy Campaign for the year.
Kuzyk stated that they are reflecting that on a local level to kick off their Legion campaign and include the Town of Vegreville. October 25 is the start of the Poppy Campaign.
The Poppy Fund ensures that The Legion can continue to provide Veterans and their families in Alberta and North West Territories with a variety of supports, including: shelter, clothing and food, mental and physical health supports, medication and medical equipment, assistance accessing benefits and programs through Veterans Affairs Canada, transition to civilian life, and investment in research and programing to support physical and mental health.
Tim MacPhee receives the first poppy of the year from Terry Kuzyk.
(Rosanne Fortier/Photos)
Canadian Foodgrains Bank Working to End Global Hunger
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Working together to end global hunger is the mission of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. The Christian based non-profit organization, along with its members, supporters and project partners have been devoted to that mission.
According to Canadian Foodgrains Bank 2024 annual report, “In 2023-24, individual Canadians, community
groups, growing projects, businesses and churches helped raise $18.9 million; helping us touch the lives of 974,683 people in 35 countries. Canadian Foodgrains Bank is a partnership of 15 church and church based agencies, representing 30 Christian denominations comprised of more than 12,000 individual congregations
Foodgrains bank - CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
The Vegre ille & District Food Grains Gro ing Project is tr l a comm nit effort. The organi ing commi ee o ld like to thank e er one ho contrib ted to the project in . 2024 Contributions
dona on
W Ba er – cash dona on
W AFSC – hail ins rance
W Triple P Farms – tr cking grain to ele ator
W Webb's Machiner – demo combine for har est da
W Viterra – p rchased canola at premi m price
W Rock Mo ntain Eq ipment – demo combine for har est da
W Tingle 's Har est Center – demo combine for har est da
W Viking H erite Colon – tr cking grain to ele ator, combine operator
W Dr. Timoth Na rot – belo market-rate land rent
W K le Bodnarch k – project treas rer
Loading canola into truck.
(Michelle Pinon/ Photo)
Enjoy Halloween Safely
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Children become very excited on Halloween night, so Alberta Health Services provides these safety tips: Before you venture in the evening, make sure the children’s costumes and shoes fit right and that they are dressed appropriately for the temperature outside. At the same time, check to make sure the costumes aren’t a tripping hazard.
Add reflective tape to costumes and treat bags to ensure drivers can see your child in the dark.
Choose costumes, beards, and wigs labeled “flameresistant”.
When possible, pick face paint or make-up instead of a mask that can interfere with your child’s vision.
If your child wants to wear a mask or a head piece, ensure he/she can see clearly from the front and both sides and that it doesn’t interfere with your child’s breathing.
Keep away from sharp or dangerous costume props, such as a knife or sword.
For trick-or-treating, children should go with their parents or caregivers when possible, otherwise, they should go in groups, and never trick-or-treat alone, until they are old enough.
Reinforce the road safety rules and tell your child that the same safe road rules apply when trick-or-treating as they do any other night: always walk on sidewalks, and cross the street at crosswalks or street corners only.
Teach your child to trick-or-treat in well-lit areas, and
to only visit homes that have outside lights turned on.
Make sure your children have a flashlight in their trick-or-treat bag.
Remind your child never to go inside a stranger’s home or car.
Before your child digs into his or her treat bag, be sure to inspect all goodies.
Discard all candy that has a loose, broken, or open wrapper.
Discard homemade candy or baked goods provided by people you don’t know.
Wash all fruit, and cut it into pieces to inspect it before eating.
With carving jack-o-lanterns, youngsters should always have an adult present to do the carving. Children can be involved by drawing the face on the pumpkin and by cleaning the inside.
Another option is to just draw with a marker on the pumpkin.
Adults should be responsible for the lighting of any candles used inside the jack-o-lantern.
Don’t allow children to play near jack-o-lanterns with candles burning.
Keep lit jack-o-lanterns out of the way of trick-ortreaters.
For drivers in the neighborhood, make sure to drive slowly and carefully during this night and always watch out for kids.
Homeowners must remove hazardous obstacles in their yards.
Alternatives to Treats and Sweets
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Candy is Dandy for Halloween but a unique novelty object or healthy treat can make this occasion memorable for the giver and receiver.
Some healthy snacks are packs of crackers, organic vitamin C lollipops, yogurt-covered raisins, fruit leather bars, fruit snacks, dark chocolate,
mini popcorn bags, sugar-free gum, granola bars, Nutri-grain bars, veggie chips, honey sticks, packages of dates, apricots or cranberries, sunflower or pumpkin seeds, string cheese.
Fun toys that are reasonably priced are always good to receive and these could include mini puzzles, PlayDoh, small games, bouncy balls,
colouring books, small craft kits, or any traditional party or stocking stuffing item.
Novelty pencils and school supplies are also a great idea. Then lip balms, fun towels, and novelty socks, pages with craft items children can make at home. Other unique things to give are notebooks with simple recipes, stories, and poems you invent.
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Tailgate Party
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For sale: Gently used golf balls. 18 for $10. If interested text 780-632-
One hundred and eighty attendees seemed to enjoy joking around and sporting the jersey of their favorite sports team at St. Martin’s Catholic School Foundation Harvest Ball on October 19 at Vegreville Social Centre.
This event also had games set out to play, and a popcorn stand. The fundraising efforts were tied to sports as well, such as the 50/50 ‘Player Draft’.
Live auction items were handmade projects from each class at this school and silent auction items were donated from businesses and individuals in the community.
A new addition to this year’s fundraising efforts of the night was setting three goals and giving back 10-20 percent of the earnings to an organization of people’s choice. Vegreville Minor Hockey was the most voted recipient and the
foundation expressed that they were happy to share the support they have received with another local group.
The caterer was Farmhouse Catering and the Band was the Ramifications.
Lisa Gegolick, Coordinator and Chair for Foundation, explained that this year the Tailgate Party theme was fun, outgoing, and effortless. “The creativity for the whole event was so impressive!
With the funds we raised, following all the upgrades and additions the Foundation has provided for St. Martin’s School over the last year, we are continuing our efforts outside and will be prioritizing the basketball courts with new lines, nets, and fencing. This is not only exciting for the school, but the community as well as it’ll be the first and only fenced basketball court in Vegreville.
Our organization wants to express gratitude to the auctioneer, attendees, donors, and volunteers for another wildly successful Harvest Ball!”
A gathering of family and friends. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Fall Scenery Garnishes Vegreville
Autumn sights. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Tributes
September 9, 1931 - October 19, 2023
We thought of you today
But that is nothing new,
We thought of you yesterday and the day before that too.
We think of you in silence,
We often speak your names.
All we have are memories and your pictures in a frame.
Your memories are a keepsake, from which we will never part.
God has you both in His arms,
We have you both in our hearts.
In Loving Memory of our Parents: Elbert, Marvin, Sandra, Kevin and families.
ANNE SOLDAN
October 30, 1930 – October 27, 2023
Gone from us that smiling face
The cheerful pleasant ways
The heart that won so many friends
In bygone happy days
A life made beautiful by kindly deeds
A helping hand for other’s needs
To a beautiful life
Came a happy end
She died as she lived
Everyone’s friend
O Father, in your great mercy, accept our prayer, that the Gates of Paradise have been opened for your servant and in our turn, may we too be comforted by the words of our faith, until we greet Christ in glory and are united with you and our departed. Forever in our hearts and always on our minds
Debbie, Lara, Daniel, Leanne, Leighton, Shelby and Kollyns
FLEMING, Janette Loraine (née Thibeault) October 5, 1950 - October 14, 2024
It is with great sadness that the family of Janette Fleming (née Thibeault) announce her passing on Monday, October 14, 2024.
Janette will be forever missed by her close family and friends. She is survived by her mother, Siri Thibeault of Cranbrook, BC; her loving and dedicated husband, Jim Fleming, of Holden, AB; her children Bridgit (Rob) Shoemaker, Luke, Megan, and Molly of Dawson Creek, BC; Deirdre (Neil) McDonald, Hannah and Amelia of Dawson Creek, BC; Peter (Alison) Fleming, Grace, Audrey, and Isaac of St. Paul, AB; Patrick (Stacey) Fleming, Ben and Sophie of Holden, AB; brothers, Jim (Diane) Thibeault, Jerry (Theresa) Thibeault, Jordy (Leanne) Thibeault of Cranbrook, BC; sister, Julie (Harlan) Bradford of Skookumchuk, BC; brother-in-law Garth (Darlene) Fleming of Holden, AB; sister-in-law Dana (Doug) Barlund of Innisfail, AB; brother-in-law
Wayne Fleming of Edmonton, AB; sisters-in-law Heather Hansen of Viking, AB, and Dawn Saunderson of Edmonton, AB; sister-in-law Paddy (Dave) Dzuba of Grande Prairie, AB; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was predeceased by her father Harvey Thibeault, in-laws Patrick and Ethel Fleming, and brother-in-law John Hansen.
Janette was born in Coleman, Alberta, to Harvey and Siri Thibeault. She grew up in Cranbook, BC, and moved to Edmonton in 1968. She first worked for the Edmonton Journal and then the Provincial Government.
In the spring of 1969, in front of the Edmonton Public Library, she met Jim Fleming. They married in June 1970 and spent the next decades building a life together with their 4 children in Edmonton, Ardrossan, Sherwood Park, and Lindbrook before moving to Holden, AB, in 1983.
Janette worked for Thor Agencies in Holden. She volunteered for Beaver Regional Arts Society, 4-H, and the Catholic Women’s League. Janette enjoyed cheering on her children and grandchildren in their various sports and activities. She loved to sew, quilt, read, swim, travel, and garden.
In October 2022, Janette became a resident of the Tofield Long Term Care and remained there until her passing. There will be no formal service. A family inurnment will occur in the Spring.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Janette’s name to Alzheimer Society of Canada, Tofield and Area Health Foundation - Long Term Care, or to the charity of their choice.
In her memory, sew a quilt, grow a plant, go for a walk or swim, read a book, or give somebody a hug.
The family would like to thank the staff of Tofield Long Term Care for the loving care and kindness they provided Janette and her family.
Weber Funeral Home 780-662-3959 www.weberfuneralhome.ca
EDWARDS, Lindsay
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Lindsay Edwards on October 8, 2024 at the age of 65 years. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Kathleen; daughter, Jaclyn (Simon); father, John Kubin; siblings, Cynthia (Paolo) Mancuso, Lisa (Marvin) Topilko, Joe Kubin & Michelle (Lane) Christopherson; brother-in-law, Jim (JoLynn) Chernecki; sister-in-law, Conny Chernecki; numerous nieces & nephews. Lindsay was predeceased by his mother, Terry Kubin; father- & mother-in-law, Mike & Gloria Chernecki. As per wishes, no service will be held. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Lindsay, to a charity of one’s choice ℅ 5626 51 Street, St. Paul AB T0A 3A1. To send condolences online please visit https://www. gracegardensfuneralchapel.com/.../lindsay.../ GRACE GARDENS FUNERAL CHAPEL 5626 - 51
PALICHUK, Ernest “Ernie”
On Tuesday, October 15, 2024, Ernest “Ernie” Palichuk of Vegreville, AB peacefully passed away at the age of 84 years. Ernie will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Arlene (Kurt), Carol (Rory) and Joyce (Anthony); grandchildren, Cory, Eric, Nicole, Tiffany, Joshua and Jared; numerous great-grandchildren; siblings, Irene (Karl), Adeline (Fred) and Ken; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his wife, Iris; his first granddaughter, Michelle; and parents, Nick and Mildred.
A special thank-you to the staff at St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville for their care and compassion.
A Prayer Service will be held Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 6 p.m. in Vegreville at Park Memorial Chapel, 4814 - 50 Street. A Funeral Service will be held Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 11 a.m. in Park Memorial Chapel, Vegreville. Basilian Fathers officiating with interment in Riverside Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Edmonton Humane Society, https://www. edmontonhumanesociety.com/ Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com. Park Memorial Vegreville 780-632-2000 And Family-Owned Funeral Home And Crematorium
MWO, Guy Lamoureux – VE6 BGH
February 17, 1939 – October 17, 2024
It is with great sadness we share that Guy passed away on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the age of 85 years. He will lovingly be remembered by his children: Guillaine (Guy), Paul, and Jeannette (Kevin); his sister Lise (Serge); brothers Maurice (Yvonnette) and Andre; sister-in-law Claudette; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, many friends old and new and of course his grand puppies.
Guy was predeceased by his beloved wife Vicky; his parents Germaine and Paul Ernest; along with his brother Michel.
Guy spent 33 years with the military and enjoyed
April 15, 1942 – July 28, 2024
Predeceased by Parents, Peter and Olga Paranich, grandparents, John and Victoria Paranich and Dmytro and Sophia Derdak and sister, Patricia
and nephew, Brian
She is survived by brother in-law Garry Stuparek and his family Craig and Crystal (Ted Richardson). She will be fondly missed by many cousins and friends.
Friends and Family are invited to attend the funeral service on October 18, 2024 At 11:00 AM at the St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 2028 West 7th Avenue, Vancouver, BC.
The Internment will be at Vegreville Riverside Cemetery, 4829 – 50th Street, Vegreville, AB, on October 25, 2024 at 1:00 PM.
PHILLIPS, Robert Lawrence Robert Lawrence Phillips passed away October 18, 2024 at the age of 91 years with his family by his side. Bob will be remembered by his long-time friend of over 30 years, Carol Sawchuk; four daughters Angela Phillips of Vegreville, Debbie (Brian) Kirby of Airdrie, Laura Kelly (Doug) of Vegreville and Jamie ( Clayton) Mackinnon of Newbrook; one son Howard (Michelle) Phillips of Bonnyville; daughter-in-law Brenda Phillips of Vegreville; sister Rena Deleske of High River; along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren; niece, nephews, relatives and friends; his very best friend and companion Rusty who was always on Bob’s lap. Bob was predeceased by his parents George and Edna Phillips; his son Daryl Phillips; 4 brothers James, Donald, Joe and Dale all of Calgary. Memorial donations may be made to “Haying in the 30’s Cancer Support Society” or to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta.”
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville ,780-603-5800
GIDZINSKI, Marvin Steven February 29, 1964 – October 15, 2024
numerous activities: from his amateur radio, computers, woodworking, ceramics, gardening, travelling, camping and just tinkering and fixing things. He touched the hearts of many and will be missed very much.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 12:30 p.m. at the Kingsway Legion Branch #175 – 14339 50 Street Edmonton, AB. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the “Kipnes Centre for Veterans” - 4470 McCrae Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5E 6M8. To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville 780-603-5800
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Marvin Gidzinski of Edmonton, formerly of Beauvallon, AB at the age of 60 years. Marvin is survived by five siblings, Agnes (Ray) Woods, Michael (Marian), James (Roslin), Joseph (Lora) and Valerie (Clint) Olmstead; nine nieces and nephews, Robert (Caroline) Woods, Julie (Paul) Ashford, Colin (Andrea) Woods, Chris (Amy) Mittertreiner, Stacey (Arron) Klassen, Alexander and Samantha Gidzinski, Sutton and Erin Olmstead. Marvin was predeceased by his parents, Anton (2010) and Lillian (2022); and his brother, Carl (2005). Divine Liturgy will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church, Vegreville. Basilian Fathers officiating with interment in Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church Cemetery, Myrnam. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Lung Association, www.lung.ca or a charity of your choice. Vichnaya Pamyiat Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com. Park Memorial
Vegreville 780-632-2000 Family-Owned Funeral Home And Crematorium
KISILEVICH
Martin Kisilevich
October 8, 1923 - October 10, 1989
Helen Kisilevich
Susannah Paranich
Stuparek,
Stuparek.
Monster Fun for Halloween
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Seven children were engaged as they participated in the Kalyna Family Resource Network-themed Stay and Play program on October 18.
This session was about Self-care with a focus on whole-body hygiene.
The activity involved creating germ-
like-looking monsters from coffee filters using coloring aids, glue, and scissors. Children also attached googly eyes to the monsters to make them look more realistic.
During story time, Spokes Programmer Malgorzata Abbott read the book, “Healthy Habits,” which explains hygiene and good routines around this topic.
Abbott explained, “We believe this craft makes children more aware of expelling germs and teaches them about preventing them. This visual craft makes them realize the importance of showering and wearing clean clothes.”
Name: Isaak Harder
Salesperson Likes: my family, spending time outdoors Dislikes: tomatoes, extreme cold
This young gal shows her craft project. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Parents enjoying the craft with their child.
(Rosanne Fortier/Photos)
A poster for the season. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
This little lad having fun with the toys. (Rosanne Fortier/ Photo)
across Canada. One of the members is the Mennonite Central Committee. Abe Janzen, said he worked for a long time with that committee before taking on the position of Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB) regional representative for Alberta.
Janzen was on hand for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank harvest which took place near the Town of Vegreville on October 15. It is one of over 200 growing projects across Canada, and represents approximately half of the donations received by the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
Community growing projects generally involve farmers, fuel dealers, equipment dealers, local small businesses, grain elevator staff and church congregations. It is one of the ways Janzen connects and supports with supporters of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. “That means visiting and calling people who are donors, churches who are interested, and farmers and ag-business people who create ‘growing projects’ like the one you visited yesterday. It’s really a grass-roots based organization. The amount of work that is done, literally on the ground, is amazing.”
world hunger as well as connect with contributors and community members.
Achtymichuk pointed out that since its inception in 2001, the Vegreville growing project has raised over $900,000.
farmers to grow more and healthier food for their families, and hopefully for their markets.
Food Aid these days goes to Gaza (it’s actually almost impossible to get anything into Gaza), Lebanon, Syria (that war began in 2011 and has not ended.
Half of that population has been displaced … 14M people), Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, Colombia/Venezuela … and in every case it’s because of violence and war. The food is purchased nearby. We don’t ship food from here because we want to enable local and nearby economies. Grain from Canadian farms is turned to cash and the cash is used where the food can be purchased, as close to the need as possible.
project in five countries in Eastern Africa. Soil that has been eroded over years of neglect can be turned back into farmland. That is one example. We also do a lot of work in Conservation Ag, which is really just teaching farmers about crop rotation, moisture preservation (mulch), and zero tillage. Production, in nearly every situation goes up dramatically on small plots where these three elements are put into practise.”
Whether it’s providing emergency food in times of crisis, helping people improve their access to food in the longer term or engaging Canadians and governments toward meaningful change, CFGB is continuing to make meaningful change throughout the world.
Local Growing Project Coordinator Darren Achtymichuk reported that, “A group of approximately 20 volunteers and project supporters met for lunch at the field. Shortly after lunch, four combines (provided by Webb’s Machinery, Rocky Mountain Equipment, Tingley’s Harvest Center, and Durlowe Farms) set to work, harvesting 115 acres of standing canola. The machines wrapped up the field just after 4 pm, marking the end of another successful growing season for the project.
The field produced 6,143 bushels of canola (a yield of 53 bushels/acre). Considering the heat and dryness in July and August, we were happy with how it turned out. Total proceeds from the crop were $80,018.78. We expect that after covering expenses, over $60,000 from the Vegreville growing project will be contributed to the Canadian Food Grains Bank’s humanitarian efforts around the world.”
It was the first time contributor Double Bumps Seed, Jeannette and Dwayne Andrashewski have been involved with the project. They said the project aligns with their values and is a good way to help end
Janzen noted that about 70 percent of all revenues go to emergency food aid. Last year we became involved in about 35 countries. Thirty percent goes to food security, which means education, training, nutrition education, and working with
Wherever we work, it is done through one or more of the 15 members. They manage the projects and CFGB supports, evaluates, resources, monitors. Each of the 15 members works through partner organizations who are usually long-term local NGOs. We are very careful about partnerships … and we do a lot of training on the ground … all the time.
The Canadian Government, last year, gave CFGB an extra $33M to begin a three-year soil reclamation
OF MINBURN NO. 27
will be closed for the 2024 hunting season
SALE
LANDS: NW-9-53-14-W4th containing 160 Acres, more or less Excepting thereout all mines and minerals
LOCATION: on Hwy 16A north on Secondary Road 857 to Twp Rd 532 and then east to RR144. Property is directly east of RR144 and south of Twp 532 County of Minburn No. 27, Alberta
POSSESSION: 12 noon on December 13, 2024
CONTACT: Tender packages can be picked up, mailed or emailed.
Please call Kuzyk Law Office at 780-632-4552
DEADLINE: Tenders to be completed on the form provided in the tender package and must be received at: Kuzyk Law Office Postal Drawer 929 5038 – 50 Avenue VEGREVILLE, AB T9C 1S1
by mail, credit card via the County website, or in person at our Administration Office at 4909-50 Street, Vegreville, Alberta.
No later than 2:00pm on Thursday, November 14, 2024. Tenders will be opened at Kuzyk Law Office At 2:05pm on Thursday, November 14, 2024.
Tenders will NOT be opened in public
Boiling Point - CONTINUED from PAGE 4
Foodgrains bank - CONTINUED from PAGE 7
Abe Janzen, left, and Darren Achtymichuk. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Kayla said she already had a team lined up.
Ziegler said the girls were all friends and possessed the drive to win, which led to two league championships.
Zacharkiw said they’d been trying to bring back female hockey to Vegreville for the past three years, and were finally successful this year. He’s hoping that over time they will be able to develop Vegreville as a central hub for female hockey in the region.
Two of Zacharkiw’s Assistant Coaches, JC McNiven and Adia Durie, both played co-ed hockey. McNiven has coached for the past four years with the Vegreville Minor Hockey Association, (VMHA) and this will be Durie’s first year behind the bench.
McNiven says it’s nice to have an all-female home team. The hope is to be able to draw players from other rural communities and build awareness and excitement for female hockey as well as other sports. As well, having a U-13 all-female team may inspire younger girls currently playing U-9 and U-11 co-ed hockey to make the switch.
Zacharkiw said there are 14 players on the team’s roster, with some members coming from Sherwood Park, Lamont, Mundare, Innisfree and Vilna. He encourages parents who are interested in having their girls play female hockey to contact VMHA.
It was not only the inaugural game for the U-13 girls, it was also their first game of the season. The Wranglers play in the East Central Female Hockey League, and Zacharkiw said there are nine teams in their division.
The Wranglers were first to get on the scoreboard, five seconds into the game, and continued to score eight more goals to
handily defeat the Jaguars 9-1. Commenting on the team’s decisive victory, Zacharkiw said, “For our first game together as a new team I was very proud of the effort on the ice. The Girls have practiced together for a month now, but don’t really get to see the full result until a game is played.
For a diverse team that has a mix between experienced and returning to hockey players, And a team that doesn’t know each other very well yet, they worked well together, passing was impressive for a first game and the support they give each other on and off the ice is very encouraging.
I fully expect the girls to form a close bond and be a tight knit team this season.”
Hamming it up for the camera.
(Michelle Pinon/Photos)
Wranglers U-13 female hockey team following their victory on home ice Oct. 19. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Head Coach Trevor Zacharkiw and daughter Annabelle. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
