Vegreville and Area Stands With Ukraine Award Presentation
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Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Mayor Tim MacPhee presents the award to Natalia Toroshenko. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
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Beauvallon Man on a Mission
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Allen Sayler sat on Two Hills County council for 23 years. On Oct. 23 he appeared before members of council to pitch the idea of having Colonel Joshua Kutryk, Canadian astronaut and former Beauvallon area resident formally recognized for his outstanding accomplishments.
Sayler, who also resides in the Beauvallon area, said he was recently having breakfast with his son Mark when Mark came up with the idea. Sayler appeared before Two Hills town council the previous day and said they were interested in setting up a committee.
Reeve Murray Phillips thanked Sayler for bringing forward the request, and there are many possible ways to recognize Kutryk. Sayler also provided information that had been compiled by Joshua’s mother Kathy Kutryk.
Although Joshua Kutryk was born in Fort Saskatchewan, he attended elementary school in Fort Saskatchewan, Elk Point and Whitehorse before moving back to the Kutryk homestead with his family for Grade and went to high school in Two Hills before attending the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario where he earned a mechanical engineering degree.
Kutryk’s mother Kathy wrote that Joshua is currently employed with the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Space Agency as a test pilot, fighter pilot and engineer.
“He also has his masters in space studies, maters in flight test engineering and masters in defence studies. He has over 4,000 hours of flying experience on more than 40 different aircraft. He was chosen as an
astronaut in July 2017 out of more than 5,000 applicants. He moved to Houston, and started training at NASA.”
She described some of his recent training and that he has learned to fly Boeing’s new Starliner which will take astronauts up and back to the International Space Station. “The Starliner will be another spacecraft that NASA can use as well as Elon Musk’s Crew Dragon….He was scheduled to go to the International Space Station (ISS) on the Starliner in the coming spring of 2025. However, that has been put back until they rectify the problems.”
Kutryk pointed out that more experiments need to be conducted before the mission will proceed. While initially disappointed, Joshua will have a mission to the ISS. She added that, “Joshua would be more than happy to help promote the County of Two Hills in any way he can. It is his home and he might just return to it one of these days. It’s definitely his “happy place” when he gets the rare opportunity to come home.”
Sayler said he plans to make a presentation to St. Paul Board of Education trustees in the future.
The next board meeting is scheduled for Nov. 13.
Allen Sayler during his presentation to County of Two Hills council on Oct. 23. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Colonel Joshua Kutryk. (Canadian Space Agency/Website Photo)
County of Two Hills Holds its Annual Organizational Meeting
The County of Two Hills held its annual organizational meeting on Oct. 23. The meeting included the oath of office and swearing in ceremony of Reeve Murray Phillips and Deputy Reeve Don Gulayec as well as appointments of councillors to numerous boards and committees.
Of note was the appointment of Murray Phillips and Sebastien Dutrisac to the Two Hills Regional Economic Development (THREAD) committee. A memorandum of understanding was also discussed and council agreed to review the terms of the agreement and bring it back at the next regular meeting of council.
This is Kevin and his son Daniel. In 2023, Kevin got a $5,663 profit shares cash payout from Vision Credit Union, which he uses as operating cash for his grain farm. Operating cash is critical, says Kevin. When you’re a farmer, Mother Nature may hold trump when it comes to output, but cash is still king. What’s your share ?
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
County of Two Hills Reeve Murray Phillips and Chief Administrative Officer Sally Dary. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Nobody Left Behind
Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser – Opinion
“Nobody left behind.” I was surprised when I dug deeper into this phrase; it could be a bit of a rabbit hole. There are books and songs and references to hobbits in ‘Lord of the Rings.’ The most interesting maybe is an organization in the UK that focuses on helping young people and families through sport. As bizarre as some of the other matches might be, the ‘Nobody Left Behind’ group in the UK is most interesting. They state their work is focused on people who face layers of disadvantages and feel left behind. Their approach is to start with group sports and then move on to education to help participants develop a clear route into employment.
I found this most interesting because group sports require teamwork, just like many jobs in the real world. Sports also typically involve winning (or sometimes more importantly losing) as a team and learning from either scenario. Now I can’t speak to how they operate. Maybe everyone there gets a trophy in hopes that it builds confidence, but I tend to think that since they are focused on getting people who are having challenges to enter the workforce, that some tough lessons are being learned. Now extend these same principles to our education systems. There has been some outcry in B.C. as well as discussion in Ontario in other provinces about how grading is changing. So,
picture this….I give you a test. The subject matter doesn’t make a difference. After grading it I return it to you with smile and you see that you received a grading of “emerging” while your friend received a grading of “extending.” How’s that?? Insert dramatic pause here.
My worst fear is that this actually makes sense to some readers. Many of us reading this remember A, B, C and D. There were the associated or in there as well and notes from the teachers to help parents with some context. IE “Johnny can do better but gets distracted,” or “Johnny is having trouble with times tables and should practice more.” In higher grades you maybe got an 82 percent or if you were goofing off a 35 percent. In this world, you needed 50 percent to pass to the next grade. Pretty clear.
A new survey by Leger for the Fraser Institute showed, “Canadian parents with kids in K-12 schools, and parents in British Columbia, find letter grades on report cards significantly clearer and easier to understand than the BC government’s new descriptive grading terms.” Other highlights from the report indicate that
In 2023, the BC government switched report cards in Kindergarten to Grade from letter grades—such as A, B, C, and D—to the descriptive terms “emerging,” “developing,” “proficient,” and “extending.”
Ninety-eight percent of Canadian parents say regular, clear assessment of student performance is important to them. The list goes on, but you get the idea. In their ideal world, where no one gets their feelings hurt, people in positions of influence have created a system that John Rustad, B.C. Conservative Party leader, called “woke nonsense.”
I can’t say I’m surprised. Years ago, I stopped in to visit friends that were doing some local camping. Some of the group were younger and fairly new to the workforce in the capacity that their food depended on it. One guy (let’s call him John) and I got to talking with was a mechanic. He was apprenticing and we got onto the topic of his schooling and current apprenticeship. During our conversation John indicated that he could not multiply without a calculator. Me…“four times four?” John… “nope.” After growing up in a system where multiplication tables were mandatory, I was quite surprised. By all accounts, John was quite smart (he could easily hold a conversation) and his friends said he was a pretty good mechanic. However, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this basic lack of math skill might affect his progress at some point.
Recently, I spoke to someone with a grade school child. They expressed frustration with the report card of their son. There were lots of fluff and positive words on the card, but of course, no A’s or B’s. It seems that this is now in Alberta as well. This Nobody Left Behind - CONTINUED ON PAGE
Around 88 attendees shared laughter, joy and memories at the Vegreville Association for Living in Dignity (VALID) 65th Anniversary Gala at the Legion Hall on October 18.
The theme was silver and blue and the hall had picture-perfect decorations to compliment this idea.
Executive Director Lana Syms emceed the event.
Some interesting facts Syms compiled include the following: In 1959, Dr. Ross Caurns and community members started a special school for children with disabilities using the Beaver Bennett Scout Hut as a classroom. Dorothy Cairns was their teacher. 110 Workshop opened its doors in the spring of 1979. The RO 10 Bargain Centre opened as a joint venture with the Rotary Club in 1983, and they expanded to three residences in 1990.
was formed in 1992 as an amalgamation between the Vegreville Association of the Handicapped and the 110 Vocational Training Centre. In 1997, Pot O’ Gold relocated from downtown to their new location. In 2011, their Complex Needs program was formed.
Syms went on to state that through the years, the value of the community and what they contribute to this organization is insurmountable. The organization currently has 65 staff members and they serve between 45 and 50 individuals.
Syms said they chose silver and blue as their theme colours a few years ago and they were just keeping with this for the gala.
Peter Skoreyko led the people in grace before the bountiful meal catered by Diane Fausak and crew.
An award ceremony was presented where staff with five or more years
earned a certificate and a custom gift. New employees were given a flower.
Long-standing employees Karen Streets was honoured with the 35 Years of Service Award and Terry Seniuk received the award for 30 years. Streets expressed that she worked this long because of the awesome individuals they support.
Seniuk said it has been a great journey
working for this organization as he enjoyed the challenge, and there was and still is a great bunch of people and staff to work with.
A draw was held before attendees began dancing the night away to New Wave Entertainment with DJ Norm.
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
VALID
New staff are recognized. (Rosanne Fortier/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
– November 2, 1949
The town’s legal fraternity will have an addition about December 1st when M.H. Ponich M.L.A. will open a branch office here in the premises now occupied by R. Henley, (Western Land Co.). Mr. Ponich will operate on a double-barreled basis, as he will continue in practice at Two Hills and also reside there for the time being.
The officers and members of the Canadian Legion extend an invitation to all organizations, business places, and to each household, to join them at a Remembrance Service which will take place in the Vegreville Arena at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 11th when wreaths will be presented.
One of the largest shipments of cattle ever to go to a single buyer was made recently to Cherokee, IA. Officials of Burns Company said 1,083 cattle, representing a value of $131,000, were loaded into 28 boxcars. They said the cattle had been purchased by E.E. Beck, an American cattle buyer.
Adding more color to the already well-lit Main Street of Vegreville are two more Neon signs, one belonging to the Arcade Billiard Parlor, which recently had its bowling alleys renewed, and the other to the Vegreville Hardware.
The Legion slogan “Wear a Poppy for Remembrance” is a good slogan. It is one that deserves the support of every citizen.
50 Years Ago – October 31, 1974
Mayor Virgil Moshansky and the new Town Council were sworn in by Town Administrator, Garnet Burnstad. The new council consists of Councilors Kay McKenzie, Bill Triska, Ernie Oginsky, Larry Ruptash, Oleh Sokoluk, and Terry Semeniuk,
One of the highlights of the growing season in and around Vegreville during the latter part of October is the annual “Spud Derby” run-off at the office of the Vegreville Observer. This year Wm. Ewaniuk maintained his hold on the top prize with five Netted Gems which outdistanced by a short margin the Netted Gems entered by Harry Semotiuk.
Rick Devost, Glen Vinet, and Mel Kassian recently represented Vegreville in the Canadian Football Fundamental Provincial Finals held at Clarke Stadium in Edmonton. This contest was sponsored by the Alberta Amateur Football Association and was coordinated locally by the Vegreville Recreation Board with the assistance of the following teachers: Dave Baron, Lawrence Kusiek, and Harold Mori.
The A.L. Horton teaching staff won three out of five against the Vegreville Composite High School teaching staff in the second round of the volleyball fun games.
25 Years Ago – November 2, 1999
Mundare Business Association held its annual meeting last Wednesday (October 20) and elected a new executive. Tracey Jordan of Back to Basics was elected president, Marvin Walinski of Agricore as vice president, Theresa Kuhn of CIBC as treasurer, and Valerie Retzlaf of the Chicken Coop as secretary. More than 40 years of dedication to 4-H by a Lavoy area resident is being recognized by the organization. Norm Withers has been named the 1999 inductee to the Alberta 4-H Hall of Fame, announced Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ty Lund.
A donation of $325.00 was made towards the A.L. Horton School playground complex last week. Brian Fedoruk of Subway presented the cheque to Ron Horon and Barb Morris representing the school.
ATCO Electric in Two Hills donated $500.00 to the newly upgraded Seniors Lodge in Myrnam. Chairman of Eagle View Lodge, Allen Sayler, accepted the cheque from Maurice Michaud, senior serviceman, customer services. The money will be used to buy equipment. Former Vegreville resident Hank Tatarchuk was inducted into the Canadian Forces Sports Hall of Fame at an awards ceremony held Saturday in Ottawa. He still owns the family farm near Vegreville and visits regularly from his home in Edmonton.
Here’s One Solution to Canada’s Housing Crisis: Move
Wendell Cox Frontier Centre for Public Policy
Canadians may be solving the housing crisis on their own by moving away from more expensive areas to areas where housing is much more affordable. This trend is highlighted in the latest internal migration data from Statistics Canada.
The data covers 167 areas comprising the entire nation, including Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs), which have populations from 100,000 to seven million. It also includes the smaller Census Agglomerations (CAs), which have a core population of at least 10,000, as well as areas outside CMAs and CAs in each province and territory, which are referred to as “largely rural areas.”
Long-standing migration trends have been virtually reversed. Larger cities (CMAs) now see the highest loss of net internal migrants, while smaller cities (CAs) are experiencing solid gains. Between 2019 and 2023, Canada’s CMAs lost 273,800 net internal migrants to smaller areas, including CAs and largely rural areas. This contrasts sharply with the previous five-year period (2014 to 2018) when CMAs saw only a 1,000-person loss.
So, where did these people go? A significant portion 108,100 moved to CAs, which captured 39 per cent of the CMA losses. This is triple that of the previous five years (2014 through 2018).
However, the most notable shift occurred in largely rural areas, which gained 165,700 net internal migrants, representing 61 per cent of CMA losses. This is a dramatic increase compared to the 33,700 net loss in the previous five years.
Among the 167 areas, the migration data is stunning.
The areas experiencing the greatest net internal migration are outside CMAs and CAs. The largely rural area of Ontario saw the biggest gain, with a net increase of 78,300 peo-
ple nearly 40 times the number from the previous five years. Meanwhile, rural Quebec placed second, with a net gain of 76,200 people, more than 10 times the increase in the prior five years. The Calgary CMA ranked third (and first among CMAs) at 42,600, followed by the Ottawa-Gatineau CMA (Ontario and Quebec) at 36,700 and the Oshawa CMA at 34,900. The largest CMA, Toronto, had by far the most significant net internal migration loss at 402,600, Montreal lost 162,700, and Vancouver lost 49,700. Outside these CMAs, nearly all areas posted net gains. People have also started moving to the Maritimes. The Halifax CMA tripled its previous gain (21,300). In New Brunswick, Moncton nearly quadrupled its gain (7,000). Modest gains were also made in Fredericton and Saint John as well as in Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island.
Meanwhile, housing affordability in Canada’s largest CMAs has become grim. Toronto’s median house price to median household income has doubled in less than two decades. Vancouver’s prices have tripled relative to incomes in five decades. Montreal’s house prices nearly doubled relative to incomes over two decades.
These CMAs (and others) have housing policies typical of the international planning orthodoxy, which seeks to make cities denser. In effect, they have declared war against “urban sprawl,” trying to stop any material expansion of urbanization. These urban containment policies, which include greenbelts, agricultural reserves, urban growth boundaries and compact city strategies, are associated with the worst housing affordability. Land prices are skewed upward throughout the market. Demand continues to increase ahead of incomes, but the supply of low-cost suburban land, so crucial to controlling costs, is frozen.
Regrettably, some areas where people have fled are also subject to urban containment and housing affordability has deteriorated rapidly. Between 2015 and
long, a quick call out to our community and this committee started, and I’ve never been prouder of anything that this community’s done. It’s been amazing. So, give yourselves a hand,” stated MacPhee.
The Committee was recognized by Municipal Affairs under the Partnership category. It was one of 10 organizations to receive the award this year.
Committee Chair Natalia Toroshenko said members were deeply honoured to have received the award for its volunteer work as a settlement agency for Ukrainians choosing to live in Vegreville and area. The best part of this award is that it is for partnership between four local entities: VSWU, Town of Vegreville, Vegreville Cultural Association, and St. Michaels Vegreville Manor.
This partnership demonstrates that collective strength and commitment is powerful enough to achieve great goals. We opened our hearts and our community to people fleeing their homeland after it was illegally invaded, and have successfully provided a safe and secure place to live for over 35 families. What could be more rewarding than that!
Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk could not attend the presentation in-person as she was on the road meeting with Ukrainian newcomer organizations.
Constituency Assistant Sharon Lencewich delivered remarks on her behalf. “VSWU is an organization I hold very close to my heart and I consider myself honoured and privileged to have worked with such a wonderful group…I truly cannot think of a more deserving group for this award. You’ve raised over
$100,000 and it’s a testament to the generosity of businesses, clubs, organizations and people of Vegreville and area. Not only has the money supplied essential goods to Ukraine, but it has played a key role in supporting 40 families right in our community.”
Following the presentations, three Ukrainian newcomers expressed their heartfelt gratitude to immense appreciation to the committee and its members. In fact, it was Ukrainian newcomer Yuliia Kalutska, on behalf of all Ukrainian newcomers in Vegreville, who nominated the Committee for the award.
In her letter to Mayor MacPhee and members of council, Kalutska stated that VSWU has been a “beacon of hope” during that terrifying time. “With a spirit of selfless generosity, they have provided more than just necessities; they have opened their hearts and homes to us.
Through their efforts, the community has come together to donate money, furniture, clothes and food. Committee members personally housed families, demonstrating a commitment that goes
beyond ordinary charity. They have tirelessly helped us navigate government paperwork, seek employment and integrate into this community.”
She went on to state, “We believe that their extraordinary empathy, effort and effectiveness in aiding us deserves recognition. Their actions have truly transformed lives and exemplify the best of what community and compassion can accomplish together.”
Representatives from the Town of Vegreville, Vegreville and Area Stands With Ukraine committee, Vegreville Cultural Association and Ukrainian supporters at the award presentation. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
American Graffiti Movie Night Success
Vegreville Iron Runners Auto Club Submitted
The Vegreville Iron Runners have been part of the community for the past 35 years, and members continued its spirit of involvement by hosting their first Movie Night at the Capitol Theatre on Oct. 21.
“This year, we wanted to start something different,” states Dan Fisher, Vice President of the Iron Runners. “We thought there could be a way we could support local businesses and organizations while at the same time providing an outing for the community. In the end, our Free Movie night in support of the local groups was created. “
The Movie night offered patrons free admission if they brought an item for the Vegreville Food Bank.
“The large attendance produced a truck box full of much needed food donations for the Vegreville Food Bank. Members are grateful to all the movie patrons who came and donated. With the success of this first event, the Auto Club hopes to bring another movie event to Vegreville in the future.”
Supporting People’s Losses
Akasu Palliative Care Society is a group of people who support individuals and their families with understanding and compassionate palliative care as they tran-
President Bill Smolak with the donations from the first Iron Runners movie night.
(Vegreville Iron Runners Auto Club/Submitted Photo)
Dan Fisher, Vice President of the Vegreville Iron Runners Auto Club pictured with Linda Wilkinson, Vegreville Food Bank Coordinator. (Vegreville Iron Runners Auto Club/ Submitted Photo)
Donations from the first Iron Runners movie night.
(Vegreville Iron Runners Auto Club/ Submitted Photo)
Charlene Melenka chairs the meeting. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
sition through grief, loss and end of life.
This organization held its Annual General Meeting at the Senior Citizen Sunshine Club of Vegreville on October 16. At the meeting, the team discussed that Chairperson Charlene Melenka, ViceChairperson Ardythe Butler, and Secretary/ Treasurer Anita Wilson agreed to continue their terms for one year.
At the October 23 regular meeting, Melenka presented her Annual Report as Chairperson. She stated that this small, but fierce group of Akasu Palliative Care Board has worked very hard for the past year, creating a safe place for palliative patients at St. Joseph’s Hospital, offering educational opportunities, and creating community connections. She noted that, the community benefitted from several new initiatives. They revised the Logo for Akasu Palliative Care, and the website, and renewed a place in the Vegreville Library for grief and loss educational literature. The Board brought the Alberta Hospice and Palliative Care Educational Road Show to Vegreville.
“We created a Yearly Newsletter for community awareness. The 2023 Christmas Service of Remembrance had new attendees, and new ideas have been generated for next year. New furniture was purchased for the Palliative Care rooms at St. Joseph’s Hospital. The Death Café program is offered by Barb Bievenue which is supported by Akasu Palliative Care.
I am grateful to the volunteer Board of Akasu. I have enjoyed being the Chair of such a great group.”
La eland R Ltd.
2024 Winter Machinery & Feed Consignment Auction
Supporting People’s Losses - CONTINUED from PAGE 8
Board from L-R: Jennie Johnson, Viola Braun-Fox, Anita Wilson, Charlene Melenka, and Barb Bienvenue. Missing are Bernice Mackoway and Carol Rudyk. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Attendees during the meeting. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Alberta Government Opposes Emissions Cap
Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk MLA for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville
To increase awareness of the negative effects of the proposed federal oil and gas emissions cap, Alberta is launching a national campaign. Our government does not support any cap on emissions, especially when its only achievement would be to hinder Canada’s economy, prosperity, and investment opportunity. Furthermore, implementing such policies is more likely to scare off investments into the CCUS and other technologies that we need to lower emissions in our energy sector while replacing low-carbon Canadian production with higher-polluting, less responsible oil, gas, and coal from other countries. At a time when our energy sector has never been more important, Canada must encourage the current production and future investment in oil and gas to fill this growing need.
To strengthen our health care system, Alberta’s Minister of Health, Adriana LaGrange, and Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services, Jason Nixon, have started the establishment of Alberta’s new continuing care agency. This action is part of our health care refocusing initiative to ensure that Albertans can get the right care when and where they need it most.
To refocus our healthcare system, we are creating four fully integrated provincial health agencies to oversee the priority sectors of primary care, acute care, continuing
care, and mental health and addiction. This new provincial continuing care health agency allows us to broaden our efforts to care for all Albertans who need daily supports and services in continuing care homes, supporting living, or through home and community care. This new unified approach will ensure that Alberta has a continuing care system that provides Albertans with the health care, personal care services, and accommodations they need to support their independence and quality of life.
This week is Catholic Education Week across our province. From October 19th to the 25th we all have an opportunity to be grateful for the option to send our children to publicly funded Catholic schools in Alberta.
Catholic Education week’s theme is: ‘Testify: Share the Reason for your Hope!’ which calls everyone to share the positive impact Alberta’s Catholic schools have had on their lives. Catholic schools have a long legacy not only in our province but all of Canada. Protection for denominational education was a key part of the debate over Confederation and was even ingrained in the Alberta Act of 1905, which created our province itself. I am proud to be a part of a Government which continues this legacy of defending school choice.
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Rangers Celebrate 50 Years of Memories
member of the Rangers. He recalled the time his two sons Scott and Travis played on the Rangers when they won the league title and earned a silver medal in Provincials.
Fellowship, exchanging memories and stories, made for an unforgettable weekend. Nichol said, “It was truly and amazing event and we are so proud of all the hard work and planning to the organizing committee that made the weekend so very special. One thing that sticks in my head is a few of our current players came and told me “This is so unreal, now I know what it’s all about, I am very proud to be part of the Ranger family.”
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Past, present and future Vegreville Jr Rangers were welcomed during the 50th anniversary celebrations on Oct. 25 and 26 at Wally Fedun Arena.
Rangers President Jim Nichol said it was an absolutely wonderful weekend. “We started the weekend off with our team playing Killam Wheat Kings Friday night and the Alumni had a meet and greet there which was so amazing to hear all the stories and everyone seeing each other again. The Arena was elbow room only. Thankfully, we came away with a victory for the alumni to watch.
Saturday we had six teams divided up to play three games throughout the day. The stands were full all day with family and friends watching the guys play hockey, some haven’t played for many, many years. The games were all competitive and entertaining. I loved seeing the faces and hearing the conversations of family and friends during the games. There were several sore muscles after the games. No injuries which was terrific.
After the games were completed we moved over to the Social Center where we had a wonderful supper catered by the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church. We went into speeches, and thank you’s, of course. One of the many highlights was when Peter Skoreyko, Doug Hopper and Ricky Marchenko were called up to the stage to accept gifts for their very hard work over the years with the Rangers. You couldn’t wipe the smiles off. Then we had an open mic time for anyone that wanted to come share some memories and they were all filled with many, many laughs.
One thing all the alumni were raving about was they were all presented with rings that were unbelievable. These were a gift from the Kucheraway Family. Absolutely amazing.”
Brad Tymchuk, grew up in Andrew and moved to
Vegreville in 1975. He served as Head Coach from the 1996-’97 season to the 2007-08 season. He also served as Assistant Coach from 2008-’12. His older son Corey played four seasons with the Rangers from 1997-98 to 2000-2001. His younger son played on the team from 2000-01 to 2002-03.
Tymchuk said his love of the game and having good people surround him made all the difference. Of course, one of the big highlights was the team winning the league championship in 2005. Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee also spent a couple of years behind the bench. It was a familiar spot for him as he had coached most of the Rangers when they played minor hockey.
“There’s a lot of good people in this organization,” added MacPhee, who commended the all of the volunteers for their hard work and dedication.
Tony Bodnar, one of the players from the Rangers original squad (1974) was named Most Valuable Player in the North Eastern Alberta Junior Hockey League. He also won the fan’s choice award and was the top scorer.
Those were amazing accomplishments as he only learned to skate when he was 11 years of age. “My first set of skates were double bladed skates and we played on the slough.” He played one year in pee wee and two years of bantam hockey in Two Hills before going straight to Jr. hockey with the St. Paul Canadiens. He played two seasons with the Rangers, and describes the experience as the best time of his life.
Even though he only stood 5’6” tall, he was exceptionally fast and strong, well known for his penalty killing abilities. With a laugh, Bodnar says fans on the opponents’ team would cheer him after a successful penalty kill. While he was a fierce competitor he loved the camaraderie with his teammates, many of which became lifelong friends.
Bernie Wowdzia is a past president and board
Post-game photo Oct. 26. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Tributes
MEMORIAM MEMORIAM
SENIUK, William G.
Those we love don’t go away.
They walk beside us every day.
Unseen. Unhear.
But always near.
Still loved. Still missed and very dear.
Lovingly remembered and always loved by Mom, Jason, and Eddy and family
WOROBECK, Peter & Mary
In loving memory of Peter and Mary Worobeck Gone but not forgotten.
Thanks to the Two Hills nursing home. Remembered by your 3 sons and their families.
2022, prices in Ontario CMAs London, Guelph, Brantford and St. Catharines have about doubled. BC’s Fraser Valley and Vancouver Island have seen simi lar increases. Those moving to these areas are ahead financially, but the rapidly rising house prices are closing opportunities.
There are proposals to restore hous ing affordability, though none tackle the urban containment policies associ ated with the price increases. Indeed, we have not found a single metropoli tan area where housing affordability has been restored with the market dis tortions of the intensity that have developed in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal (not in our Demographia International Housing Affordability report or elsewhere). Such markets have become unsustainable for most new entrant households because they cannot afford to live there.
Housing is not a commodity. Households have varying preferences, from ground-oriented housing (detached and townhomes) to high-rise condos. Indeed, a growing body of literature associates detached housing with higher total fertility rates.
According to Statistics Canada, Canadians have favoured lower densi ties for decades, a trend that continued through the 2021 Census, a trend that continued through the 2021 Census, according to Statistics Canada.
With governments (virtually around the world) failing to maintain stable and affordable housing markets, it’s not surprising people are taking mat ters into their own hands. Until funda mental reforms can be implemented in the most expensive markets, those seeking a better quality of life will have no choice but to leave.
Wendell Cox is a senior fellow at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy and the author of Demographia International Housing Affordability.
BEREZAN, Brad
December 29, 1965 - October 31, 2019
Every day in some small way
Memories of you come our way:
Though absent, you are ever near.
Still missed, loved, always dear.
Loved and missed by
Dad and Mom
Brother, sister, their family and friends
POZERNIUK, Harry
Harry Pozerniuk of Camrose, Alberta, formerly of Holden, passed away on October 25, 2024 at the age of 94 years.
Mid December 1929 dad was born on the farm ½ mile from Moscow school, which he attended until grade 8.
In 1947 his family moved approximately 20 miles south with horses and wagon to a larger farm. A few crops were put in with horses and threshed by a neighbour who had a threshing machine.
In 1954 dad married Stella Zowtuk and had two boys. Most family outings centred around visiting relatives, friends and neighbours.
In the 60’s and 70’s dad helped friends and in-laws with his time and equipment when asked, never asking for anything in return.
The 80’s and 90’s were spent farming with his son Wayne until health issues in 2003 forced him to move to Camrose and slow down. That didn’t last long as he was back helping on the farm in any way that he could. In approximately 2014 more health issues and no more driving a vehicle, no problem, scooter days ahead. He was kept abreast of everything going on and was asked for his input on many decisions.
Harry was a valuable mentor to his grandson who is farming now on the same farm. Sometimes the choice was Google or hands on experience from Grandpa. Mom’s health issues, covid and her death in 2022 and the death of his son Brian in 2023 were difficult.
Favorite TV shows were the Trump/Clinton saga and the show “gags” we don’t know which was more entertaining. The present war in Ukraine was upsetting to dad – How history seems to repeat.
Dad lived on his own until July of this year then the next three months between the hospital and seniors home. He was sent back and forth many times.
Dad was fiercely independent right up to the two weeks before his passing. He is survived by his son Wayne (Donna); daughter-in-law Kathy; sister Lilly Vitek; 5 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; numerous family and friends. Harry was predeceased by his wife Stella; son Brian and his sister Mary Paskoski.
A private family graveside service will be held. Memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to the charity of one’s choice.
Weber Funeral Home 780-672-3131
It’s
July
Lloyd
and Payton. He is also survived by his brothers Arnold (Kathy), Peter (Sherry) and Duane (Cory); and sister Shirley (Kurt); his in-laws Willie (Gloria), Robert, Gerald (Beatrice), Doug (Lois), Greg
Ken (Connie), Chris and Gary Hawryluk. Lloyd had numerous nieces and nephews, whom he loved deeply and had special bonds with many. Lloyd was predeceased by his brother Leonard; sister Margaret Paranich; sisters-inlaw Linda Charchuk, Debbie Dziwenka and Linda Hawryluk. Lloyd was self-employed and was in business (Canyon Drywall) for 35 years. He was a hardworking, loveable man, who enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, mushroom picking, and country cruisin’. Lloyd loved smoking fish and making homemade sausage. Everyone loved Lloyd’s stories about his adventures, and there were many. He loved playing guitar and was always the entertainer, especially on camping trips. Thank you to all the family and friends that visited Lloyd at the U of A hospital and the Lamont Care Centre after his stroke in May of 2024. Special thanks to his nephew, Connor Dziwenka who was always there for him and went faithfully to watch all the Oilers Stanley Cup Playoff games with Uncle Lloyd.
We are grateful for Lloyd’s care at the Lamont Health Acute Care and Long-Term Care Center. In Lloyd’s memory, sit back and listen to “House of the Rising Sun” - The Animals, with a Keystone beer in your hand.
Cremation has taken place. A private service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations could be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta. Photos, memories and condolences may be shared by visiting www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville 780-603-5800
parent was under the impression that their son was doing well. However, at the end of the year, she felt shocked that her son was barely able to move forward. I guess “emerging” didn’t emerge enough. The young student was not overly impressed by the extra work he had to do during the summer at the hands of mom and dad, but he’s quite sharp, so I think he’ll catch up.
A report by B.C.’s Ministry of Education surveyed more than 4,000 people before the change, and found that 69 percent of respondents were dissatisfied with the idea. Following implementation, more than half of teachers reported low satisfaction, while 60 percent of parents and 83 percent of students didn’t approve of the concept. But…what do they know?
Victor Brar, a University of British Columbia professor, with expertise in K-12 education stated that parents need to “re-orient their thinking” on the grading system. Can you see my head shaking? I can’t publish what I’m thinking.
In institutions that are increasingly
worried about people’s feelings, I think we are risking a worse fate. School grading should not be subjec tive. This is not dance or body build ing or something that involves a cri tique of one’s form. Other than cre ative writing, which in many aspects also has clear criteria, core skills in education are empirical. 2 2 4, when you break the bonds of 2 0 it’s not a guess what you will get. Even musicians (if they want to be success ful) have to hit notes and do it properly. Excellence requires effort and execu tion.
In the real world, not everyone wins. The sooner students learn this, the better. Teachers should be able to give failing grades and then have resources that can be used to find out how a kid that is marginal at math can be helped, and additionally, what they are really good at. I guarantee there’s something. The misguided attempt to make people FEEL like nobody gets left behind risks a worse fate.
Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com
KOSYTNUK, Anita
Anita Kostynuk of Innisfree passed away on October 26, 2024 in Edmonton at the age of 84 years, after her courageous battle with cancer.
She will be lovingly remembered by her son Eldon; granddaughter Lemonee; dear friends Charlotte Smith and Ian Leitch; brother John Baranec; as well as numerous relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her husband Elgin; brother Danny Baranec; and sister Marusia Baranec.
In keeping with Anita’s wishes, no service will be held. We ask that the next time you see a beautiful flower, a stunning sunset, or enjoy a glass of wine, take a moment to remember Anita and smile. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Reflections Funeral Services in care of arrangements.
DZIWENKA, Lloyd Leon
20, 1950 - October 25, 2024
with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Lloyd Dziwenka on October 25, 2024.
is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Brenda; his children Troy (Holly), Kristie (Scott) Schroeder and Todd; his grandchildren Doran, Brenden
(Colleen),
One Solution - CONTINUED from PAGE 6
Danika Brison appointed Deputy Mayor
Town of Mundare Councillor Danika Brison was sworn in as Deputy Mayor during the Oct. 22 organizational meeting. Mayor Cheryl Calinoiu, left, administering oath of office to Brison. (Town of Mundare/Submitted Photo)
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Seven children ran around excitedly to use the play equipment while eager to do the craft projects at the Halloweenthemed Kalyna Family Resource Network Stay and Play program on October 25.
The first activity was creating a spider web with glue and children followed a spider web pattern and then covered it with chosen colors.
The second activity was food-related. It was called Banana Monster. For this project, children used their imaginations, putting chocolate chip eyes on bananas and creating arms from carrots, cheese, apples, and other elements of casual
Crazy Laws
Nevada
Fun Brain Exercises
snacks.
The winner for October 30th is Frances Elkow of
Malgorzata Abbott explained that these crafts helped children to use their imaginations.
“These projects benefit children because they involve having quality family time (parents doing crafts with children) and group time (learning how to share supplies). Activities were time-sensitive, and we expected them to finish at the end of the
program. This factor also helps children to build a sense of time and deadline.”
Abbott stated that doing crafts is very well known for giving people a source of dopamine and coping mechanisms. The feeling of accomplishment and being able to express oneself leads to building healthy neuro-pathways and results in feelings of joy regardless of a person’s age.
Children enjoy all the activities including snacks and crafts. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos)
Planning for Pysanka Festival
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Twenty attendees had engaged discussions at the Vegreville Cultural Association Annual General Meeting on October 23 at the Vegreville Cultural Centre.
Past President Myron Kruk chaired the meeting where he expressed gratitude for all the members’ support.
The Election of Officers for 2024-2025 was held and all were acclaimed. The Board will be President Myron Kruk, First Vice-President David Sen, Second Vice-President Richelle Budd, Recording Secretary Larissa Bombak, Treasurer Orest Olineck. The 12 Directors were also acclaimed and these are Cindy Baydala, Henriette Chomiak, Anthony
Hrabok, Barry Hrynevich, Stacy Mynzak, Shane Semeniuk, Edith Zawadiuk, Richard Marchenko, Tim Baydala, Carmen Bruce, Dellas Baxandall, and Jerrold Lemko.
There was a conversation that the 12 Directors are elected to ensure the organization is run according to the policies and bylaws that have been set out. They are responsible for that to happen and are the ones who are legally responsible for voting on issues, finances, and more.
After this was the General Meeting which the new President Myron Kruk chaired and said he wanted to refresh the bylaws. One of his goals is to make a three to five-year plan this next year so they get some things done when it comes to the Building Committee stuff.
Another priority is to get virtual meetings set up
before the next meeting.
The Central Theme for the 2025 Pysanka Festival was brought to the floor where the motion was passed to have the theme be Honouring Babas and Gido as this has a nostalgic attachment to it.
The Ukrainian Folk
Pysanka Festival - CONTINUED Below
Pysanka Festival - CONTINUED from above
New businesses are they are going to do a wreath for the Remembrance Day Ceremony on November 11, 2024.
Singers-Gerdan are coming back to Vegreville on November 7.
The Board from L-R: Orest Olineck, Anthony Hrabok, Henriette Chomiak, Jerrold Lemko, Richard Marchenko, Carmen Bruce, Shane Semeniuk, Edith Zawadiuk, Stacy Mynzak, Larissa Bombak, Myron Kruk, Richelle Budd, David Sen, Cindy Baydala, Tim Baydala. Missing from photo are Barry Hrynevich, Dellas Baxandall. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Quentin Bochar Possesses Wealth of Municipal Experience
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
The County of Minburn’s new Agriculture and Municipal Services Manager has more than a quarter century of experience at various levels of municipal government.
“I have 26 years of experience working in municipal government at various levels, including senior management. Over the years, I’ve worked for six different rural municipalities, including Minburn County. My experience spans Agriculture, Parks, Open Spaces, Building Maintenance, Culture, Libraries, Planning and Development, FCSS and Emergency Management.”
Prior to that he earned a degree in Biology and Environmental Science from Concordia College.
“Additionally, I obtained a Certificate in Environmental Resource Management and a Certificate in Municipal Management and Leadership from the University of Alberta.”
Bochar was born and raised in Smoky Lake before moving to Edmonton when his parents relocated from the farm to the city. He currently resides in Edmonton, and commutes daily; but he is hoping to find something suitable in the Vegreville area.
He applied for the position in late Mayor and began his duties with the County of Minburn on July 2. In terms of duties, Bochar says, “As Manager of Agriculture and Municipal Services, I oversee the Agricultural Service Board (ASB), Water, Sewer, and Solid Waste. This portfolio involves numerous regulatory responsibilities with Alberta Environment and Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation. The ASB also offers programming for agricultural producers and those living a rural lifestyle.
We’re currently working on several initiatives, including collaborating with Council on a strategic plan for Agricultural Services. This plan will help Council define their expectations and priorities for the future, especially given the importance of agriculture to our community.”
Local Dogs Bred for Success
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Caleya King-Davie lives south of Vegreville on a small farm with her husband and their dogs, horses, and chickens. Their dogs are their pets first and foremost.
Caleya has been an executive member of
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the Canadian Mastiff Club for the past 10 years. Their club is dedicated to the protection and advancement of the breed.
The 2024 Canadian Mastiff Club National Specialty 30th Anniversary was held in conjunction with the Medicine Hat Kennel Club all-breed shows on October 11 to 13 in Medicine Hat.
Eighteen Mastiffs entered for their National Specialty, and seven Mastiffs entered for the all-breed shows each day. These were purely conformity shows. Caleya explained that while a dog show may look like a beauty pageant, it’s not. Dogs are not being compared to each other; they’re being measured by how closely they conform to the standard of their particular breed. The reason is that the closer a dog’s appearance is to the breed’s standard, the better that dog’s ability will be to produce puppies that meet the standard.
Dogs are assessed both standing and on the move and compete first within their breed. The breed winners go on to the group (breeds are loosely classified according to their purpose, gun dogs in one group,
herding dogs in another, and so on), and at the end of the day, the seven group winners compete for Best in Show honours. Best Puppy awards are also offered at breed, group, and show levels.
Caleya is not a professional dog trainer but is a dedicated preservationist breeder, which means safeguarding the breed hallmarks (conformation, breed type, temperament, and instinct), and astute selection in every generation, combined with mindful care and animal husbandry. Even if the breed’s original function no longer exists, their job as breeders is to produce dogs that can still perform that function today.
“For us, dog training starts as soon as puppies can interact with their environment.
We follow the Puppy Culture and Avidog enrichment training protocols right from the beginning to help our puppies develop into confident, adaptable adults. As they grow older, they are carefully socialized to different environments and situations, and they start attending classes to teach them how to be show dogs (as well as amazing family pets). We usually take our puppies to dog shows around four to five months of age. I would say the secret to training dogs, is consistency, compassion, and a calm demeanour.
Caleya’s dogs who entered were: Wednesday, who is eight and a half, and Gromit, who is seven years old, Alli who will be four at the end of October, Bambi 10-months-old, and Edgar 10-months-old.
Caleya admitted that she entered this competition because this event gives a chance for dedicated fans of the breed to gather year after year to share their knowledge and passion. Also, a Best of Breed or Best in Sweepstakes win can be the crowning glory of a long history in the breed. Her winning dogs were Gromit, a Multi Best in Specialty Show winner, and Best Veteran in Specialty Sweepstakes.
Bambi won Best of Opposite Sex in Specialty and Best Puppy in Specialty. Wednesday won Best Opposite Veteran in the Specialty Show. Alli won Select Girl. Edgar won Best Puppy in the Specialty Sweepstakes
In closing, Caleya mentioned she is grateful to their sponsors.
Quentin Bochar (County of Minburn/Submitted Photo)
L-R: Judge Tannis Postma with Caleya Davie and dog Wednesday. (Faye Unrau Photography/Photo)
