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Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

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Volume 1 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015 • Issue 36

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Christmas Carolling Along Innisfree Streets

group of carollers were seen around the village of Innisfree on Saturday, December 19 as Colin Jackson’s team of horses trotted down the streets of the village as the voices of the singers on the wagon filled the air on the last weekend before the holiday. A group of carollers were also seen later that evening, spreading glad tidings with their singing. See more holiday images and stories in today’s special Christmas Publication of the Hiway 16 News. ~ Allan Sharp Photo

Christmas Goes To Court At Innisfree School Concert

he students and staff of Innisfreee Delnorte School welcomed visitors to its annual Christmas supper and concert on Thursday, December 17 at the Innisfree Rec Centre. The roast beef supper, prepared by the parents, made sure there were no hungry tummies before the show got underway. The play “Christmas in Court” was originally written in the 1950s but was adapted and re-written by a group of Continued on p. 2

The Ladies Club, led by Kristin Bergman, took each of the Christmas Traditions to court during the play “Christmas In Court” put on by the Innisfree students.

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Christmas Goes To Court At Innisfree School Concert Continued from p. 1

students spear-headed by Kristin Bergman. The play pointed out the concerns of the “ladies’ club” led by Bergman, which showed the “frills and fripperies” of today’s Christmas

ideas. Holly, Mistletoe, Christmas Trees and Ivy all were summoned to appear before “the court” who, one by one, revealed that each of the items were all indeed traditions from the very first Christmas. The Innisfree Delnorte School el-

ementary classes sang a number of traditional and modern music during set changes of the play. The evening ended with socializing before the busy Christmas season descends upon us. The school is now closed until the new year.

Two Christmas Traditions Holly and Ivy, played by Kathleen Fleck and Tyson Rudolf, were among those summoned to court during the annual Christmas concert on December 17.

Christmas Trees were not immune to the court proceedings during the Innisfree Delnorte School play.

Santa Visits Braes Community

nnually Braes Community Centre residents enjoy a pot luck supper, and singing Christmas carols. The children sang their Christmas songs in anticipation of a visit from Santa. Their eyes lit up as he entered and some seemed a bit scared when asked to come and sit on his knee. Santa does not forget anyone. ~ Photo Submitted

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780-581-0871 Published every Tuesday. The Hiway 16 News serves the communities of Lavoy, Ranfurly, Innisfree, Minburn and Mannville, Alberta as well as the Towns of Vegreville and Vermilion.

Our Staff: Karen Nedzielski - Publisher Tammy Lepage - Accounts Payable/Receivable

Ads, articles and photos are not to be republished without the consent of the Hiway 16 News publisher. Letters To The Editor: The Hiway 16 News welcomes Letters to the Editor. Letters must be signed and include an address and a phone number for authenticity. The Hiway 16 News reserves the right to edit letters for legal considerations, taste, and brevity.

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

“The Voice” Goes Live At Mannville School

he Voice – Christmas Edition was broadcasted live on Tuesday, December 15 in the Mannville School gymnasium just following the School’s annual Christmas supper. Students and staff worked diligently over the last few weeks to produce this year’s event which was a hit with the audience. The show consisted of performances by the elementary classes as well as commercial breaks, just like on the television show, The Voice. Judges Elvis Priestley, Elizabeth II, Queen of England and country music star Taylor Swift, played by three students, had their work cut out for them in choosing a winner from the various performances. An unexpected performance came from the teachers who hit the stage in a medley tribute to “the snowman” which seemed to delight the students, family and friends in attendance. Following the program all the participating classes posed for a group photo on the stage before the night ended. Mannville School will be closed until the new year when classes resume and students begin to prepare for exams.

The Minburn & District Ag Society is holding its Annual General Meeting

on January 7, 2016 @ 7 pm at the Minburn Curling Rink. $2 Memberships will be available for purchase at the meeting. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Innisfree Christmas Open House

Former Innisfree Mayor Turns 102 Years

ick Bohaichuk celebrates his 102 birthday at the Vegreville Manor on December 20 with family and friends in attendance. Nick is a former mayor of the village of Innisfree, and he and his wife Nettie moved to Vegreville a few years back. Nick has always had an interest in technology as well as photogra-

T phy which fills the walls of his manor apartment. His pet peeve is people who tell him to take his photographs down. Nick explains that the photos are memories of his past and he enjoys looking at them from time to time. Pictured here are Nick and Nettie, seated, with some of their nieces and nephews.

he Village of Innisfree and Deb’s ATB Agency celebrated the holiday season by holding their annual Christmas Open House on December 18 to meet with residents of the village and area. Coffee and holiday desserts were served at the day-long event. Pictured here are, from left, Mayor Debbie McMann serving holiday treats to Ed and Eileen Hlus.

Mannville’s “Mr. Hockey” Meets Idols

ac MacLeod of Mannville recently travelled to Calgary to attend a historical hockey game between the Montreal Canadien Alumni and the Selects team. Little did Mac know that his son Scott had arranged for him to meet a number of his favourite players at the Hockey Canada Hall of Champions following the game. Players Guy Lafleur, Steve Shutt and Claude Lemieux were among some of the alumni members at the game and Hall of Champions and Mac was able to have them all sign his favourite hockey jersey. MacLeod said it was an opportunity he will not soon forget. Mac MacLeod coached hockey teams in Mannville for many years and helped foster some good hockey players in the community over the years. Mac is pictured here with hockey legend Guy Lafleur.

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

What Does Our REA Mean To The Community?

Submitted

hat does our REA mean to the community? As a member, the value of our REA cannot be equalled ! As a business man and farmer who deals with power companies daily, I appreciate the business that we own. I interact with Atco, Fortis, Battle River, North Parkland Power and Lakeland REA on a daily basis with my bin moving company. By far the most service orientated Utilities are the REA’s. I have electrical services with Fortis in Viking and Atco in Vegreville and the Peace Country. I see their charges and I know the level of service that I get for my money. I applied for a new tap in the Vegreville area, got quotes from Atco for SZSK and Lakeland REA completed the job for just over $10K. lt is our company and they work directly for us and as members we have a voice in decisions affecting us. The most important quality of an REA’s is a rural member owned voice that will be heard into the future, for our children and their children. $20K sounds like a lot but you also need to put a price to the service levels that you have become accustom to. With all the other claw backs to pension, and the fact that this is taxable income we will end up giving our REA away for nothing. Big companies are big companies and their bottom line is to make money. They don’t care about the average person whether they are an employee or a customer. lt has been said that REA employees will be given jobs by Atco and the truth is that Atco has recently laid off 400 operational employees. I have a lot of friends that work for Atco and I value each and every one of them

and I am concerned about their future. lt is the big company policy to swallow up small competitive REAs that does not sit well with me! The information that the Petition committees is presenting is misleading and not true. lf we lost $1.5M in the last 2 years how are we operating? Do you believe every salesman that knocks on your door? Before the offer was presented, there were no complaints about the REA. Funny how S signs bring things out in people! Other REA’s have sold out well below fair market value. We get excellent hands on service from the REA and the REA is appreciating in value. Why the rush to take this offer, what will 10 years from now hold? Ownership of anything is a large responsibility and should be taken seriously. We have a board that is approachable and has worked hard for the membership and community as a whole. The value of the REA must include service levels, easements, and future business potential. I attended the AGM and the petition committee was only interested in killing the bylaw to make a sale vote easier, not fairer to the REA membership. The REA staff are doing an amazing job! They actually care about REA members and they know us by first names, not just a billing number. lf you have any questions call the REA office or the Board members for the truth ! | have taken the time to learn about our business and I am very pleased with the decisions that have been made in the past. I know I am only one voice speaking out, but if we stick together we will have control of our future power needs and high quality service levels which is crucial to our times. Wayne Kuhn

LREA Dear Editor, In November, Lakeland REA held its Annual General Meeting. I thought it might be worthwhile outlining the financial facts for the membership, as presented at the Annual General Meeting. Some members chose to leave before the financials were presented. Regarding Energy, our REA made a profit of $277,706 in the year ending July 31st 2015, and we have projected a profit for the current year of $104,835. Forecasts were presented for the following two years at $422,519, and $337,325 profit. A recent letter to the editor implied that LREA has lost $1.5Million in the last 2 years and this is simply not true. The Audited Financial Statement line item “Loss on Hedges” is simply the difference of the contracted hedge price versus the spot market price. This is the same as locking in a grain contract and then the spot price being higher than your contract price. You have a

loss on your contract. Hedging is a common risk management practice essentially used by all vendors of electrical energy. Lakeland REA is committed to providing safe, reliable power to its members with minimal risk. Shaped forward priced hedges are the most effective way of making sure you have affordable power when you need it! Also presented at that meeting was the balance of our investments (holdings to cover extraordinary expenses for emergencies) in the amount of $1,501,964. These holdings are to protect the REA from ice storm costs, and other acts of God or unplanned issues. In addition we presented the Vegetation control budget and our New Venture budget and forecast for further expansion of our profitable and sustainable REA. Moving to the ATCO sale offer, SecContinued on p. 17

Mischief At Innisfree Petro Canada Submitted by Vermilion RCMP

n December 20, 2015 at 3 p.m. the Vermilion RCMP responded to a complaint of an intoxicated male at the Petro Canada in Innisfree. The male subject was reported to have been causing a disturbance at this location. The RCMP attended and arrested the male for Mischief and an outstanding warrant. Later that morning the male was released on his outstanding warrants.

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Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

The Kalyna Festival Lives On Smoky Lake Ag Complex added as a Venue for Modern Dance Submitted

lans are now well underway for the Kalyna Country Performing Arts Association’s 18th Annual Festival. New faces on the Board of Directors include President Karen Svitich and Vice President Angela Semeniuk, Secretary Nancy Senetza and Medals Co-ordinator Bernice Widmer. Theresa Lysyk returns as Treasurer and Judy Taylor is staying on as Past President. Penny Politylo will remain the Festival’s Administrator. One major change for this year is that the modern dance competitions (e.g. tap, jazz, ballet, contemporary, lyrical and hip hop performances) will take place in Smoky Lake at the Ag-

ricultural Complex. All other competitions (e.g. Ukrainian dance, choir, voice and instrumentals) will continue to be held in St. Michael at the Recreation Centre. The Kalyna Country Performing Arts Association (KCPAA) is dedicated to the love of music and performing arts in communities within Kalyna Country, which include Beaver, Lamont, Minburn, St. Paul, Smoky Lake, Strathcona, Sturgeon, Thorhild, Two Hills and Vermilion River Counties as defined by the Kalyna Country Ecomuseum. The festival attracts entries in a variety of classes such as voice, speech, piano, strings, choir as well as different genres of dance (tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, hip-hop, contemporary and ethnic) for a wide range of ages.

All entries are professionally adjudicated however, the size and setting of the festival make it feel less intimidating, especially for first timers. As well, the registration fees are considerably lower than other festival and competitions, making it more affordable. The KCPAA is affiliated with the Alberta Musical Festival Association and the Canadian Music Festival Association. Scholarships, awards and prizes are presented to students and groups of promise. The 2016 festival will run March 5-8, 2016 with the Highlights Concert, showcasing outstanding participants, scheduled for March 13. As the festival relies on community support to ensure its success, the KCPAA is seeking contributions from local

businesses, organizations and individuals. In addition, volunteers are always welcome to help the event run smoothly. Registration forms are available on the Kalyna Festival website www. kalynafestival.com as well as on the Kalyna Country Performing Arts Association Facebook page. Please note that the “early bird” deadline (discounted registration fee) is December 31, 2015 and the final deadline for entries is January 15, 2016. If you would like to participate, volunteer or contribute please contact Karen Svitich at 780-796-3018 or Nancy Senetza at 780-383-2200. And don’t forget to mark your calendar for an opportunity to enjoy and appreciate our local talent!

Christmas at Vegreville Next Step High School By Alexandra Lemieux, Student Reporter

hat a busy week we have had; the countdown till Christmas is on! Just one more week until the big day. Friday, December 18 was our last day before break. All the students are hurrying to finish up all their assignments before we go on break. We had our PJ Day and pancake breakfast and everyone who came had pretty awesome jammies on! Laurie went to learn more about Off Campus Education and the trades so that we can add more to our program. We had the pleasure for the last month to include our practicum student from Lakeland College’s Child and Youth Care program, Britney

Powely in our school to help us out around our school but unfortunately December 18 was our last day having her here. All of us from Vegreville

Teddy Bear Sleepover At VIL By Kristin Bergman, Hiway 16 News Student Reporter

n Wednesday, December 16, children from the Innisfree area came to the Village of Innisfree Library for the annual Teddy Bear Sleepover. The Teddy Bear Sleepover is a festive evening when children bring their stuffed animals to the library. The event includes a game, crafts, snacks, a visit from Santa Claus and other activities. At the end of the night, the children leave their stuffed animals at the library to continue the party, and pick them up the next day. The Teddy Bear Sleepover started at 5:30 with a craft. The children were able to make presents for their bears, with some very creative results. Then a special guest named Wayne Ashton told some wonderful stories. This was followed by deco-

rating and eating gingerbread cookies and a game of “Dress Up Santa”. Finally, Santa Claus visited and each child was able to have their picture taken with him. The next day when the children picked up their teddy bears they also received pictures of the mischief their stuffed friends got into over night. The event was organized by Kristin Bergman and Marilyn Newton. Volunteers from the Library Board, including Doreen Nott, Gayle Foyster, and Elizabeth Harrison, helped the event run smoothly and cleaned up afterwards. A special thanks to Naomi Foyster-Melnyk who took pictures. Much appreciation goes to these helpers and to Wayne Ashton for their hard work in making the evening a success. Many thanks also go to the children and parents who showed up and made the Teddy Bear Sleepover so successful.

Next Step High School would like to give Britney a big thank you for being here and putting up with all of us. Best of luck in your second semes-

ter Britney. Our first day back will be January 4, 2016. We have already had a few new students come and register for the New Year. There is so going to be so much going on in this New Year, so many exciting things are going to happen in 2016! Over Christmas Tanyss will be picking up our new cameras and that means new courses to be offered. We hope to hold a few more community activities in our school and get to know more about what is going on in our small but amazing community! The Square Foot Gardening Project will begin in January with the building of the garden boxes. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone from Vegreville Next Step! We all hope you have an amazing and safe holiday season.

Images Of The Holiday Season

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Welcome to the Hiway 16 News’ Special Holiday Edition! This week’s publication features photos and stories from various holiday events, a few special messages for Santa Claus from area children, holiday recipe, poems from students of Mannville School and various other tidbits to help our readers get in the Spirit of the Season.

Please enjoy our First Holiday Edition!

On behalf of Mayor, Council and staff, we wish the residents of Vegreville and area a very Happy Holiday Season and best wishes for the coming year. May your season be filled with happiness and warmth of family and friends.

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Innisfree Students Spread Christmas

Cheer

he students of Delnortte School spent the afternoon of Friday, December 18, the final day before the holiday at businesses and residences. Led by break, carolling around the village school principal Celeste Matovich, the carollers strolled main street sing people in the mood for the holidays. ing Christmas carols to help get

s h t a e r W s a m t s i Weezie’s Chr

it, the holiday spir h it w g in ep ke tors Weezie. In shared with ath that can be regular ccontribu r re w ou of as e tm on is hr om C us i u liccio ing a deli ere is a recipe fr a recipe for mak e ar sh to d te she wan l. g a holiday mea others followin Submitted

you’ll need: Here is what d butter ½ cup of melte mallows 40 large marsh uring green food colo K akes or Speciaall 4 cups of Cornfl

wave. Add wl in the micro bo e rg la a in e and Melt the butter l. Microwave on el w ix m d an d ws nd colouring an the marshmallo well. Add food ir st d an re es tu ix ut a half min . Let the m mix all together d an s h s orr ke la F n Cor to a small wreat in e ap sh en th d Be sure to wet cool slightly an ered bunt pan. tt bu a in e on a larger reath. you shape the w es, red your hands as red cherry piec s, le nk ri sp h it Decorate w ith white chocots or drizzle w ar he t in m er e holiday seahiway16news. pepp it to us at info@ recipe during th is nd th se oy e, nj ar E sh . ts to late mel u would like have a recipe yo son and if you readers. are it with our sh ll e’ w d an ca

Deb's ATB Agency in Innisfree would like to extend a Merry Christmas to all of the Clients in the area. Debbie McMann and staﬀ

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Lexann Logistics would like to wish their customers a very

Merry Christmas M and extend best wishes for 2016!

~ Thank you for your patronage over the past year.

Harvey & Betty 780-581-4012

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Dear Santa,

n last year. ging me a toy gu toys, and in br r fo u yo Thank u bring you because yo I love it. I like her with his ot br y m . I help you are friendly d do dishes. My cousin is y da . Can you quad. I help m e for Christmas us ho y m to g would also comin game please? I o de vi a e m g brin My house is live on a farm. ! like a guitar. I rs and cookkieess! ave you cracke green. I will le

From, Aiden ol Mannville Scho Grade 1

Dear Santa, Thank-you for bringing me a doll that looked like me last year. I like you because you have a magic sleigh. You are special. I like you because you have black boots! I have been good; I feed my dogs, I make my bed everyday. But, I will work on helping my brother clean the dishwasher out. I am staying home and all my family on my mom’s side is coming for Christmas. Can you please bring me a 2DS? May I have a Monster High scarf? May I please have some crayons? I live in Mannville on a farm. My house is yellow and one of my dogs are outside. I will leave you milk and cookies and for your reindeer I will leave you carrots. From, Andie Grade 1 Mannville School

From Autumn Grade 1 ol Mannville Scho

Dear Santa, Thank you for bringing me an ipad last year. I love it. I love you because you a have a fluffy beard. You are special My favourite thing is that you bring special toys. I have been good! I did my spelling test. I have been helping my mom at her work. I need to work on playing hockey. I am going to my grandmas for Christmas. Can you please bring me a tablet? I live on a farm. My house is green. I will leave you apples and some carrots for your reindeer.

From, Carter Mannville Scho oooll Grade 1

From Ashton Mannville Scho ol Grade 1

Thank you for bringing me a Vanity Set last year. I like you because you ar e special. I have been helping m y little sister. C an you please bring me toys? I live in Mannv ille. My house is gray. I will le ave you carrots, cookies, and eggnog. From Carly Mannville Scho ol Grade 1

From, Bailey Mannville School Grade 1

, Dear Santa

Dear Santa, Thank you for bringing me an xbox 7 and video games la st year. I like yo u bring me new toys, a wii, and because you a DS. I have been nice to m y mom. Also, I have done my work at school . But, I need to work on playin nicely with Jet g and Jacob. Can you bring me an xbox, a big TV with speake rs, and a wii U My house is by . Benny and John ny house has an ol d garage, and m ’s. My y room has toys. I will leav e you some juic e!

Thank you for bringing me a Super Smash Bros last year. I like you beca use you have flying reindeer . You are happ y and always funny. I have be en good. I help ed My family and I like to have m Brooklyn. ovie nights! Could I please have a Batman game for my xbox 360. I liv e in Mannville. I will leave yo eggnog and co u okies.

Dear Santa,

magazine last bringing me a r fo ou -y nk ha T e you because magazine. I lik year. I like my lso, Santa is tmas colors. A you wear Chris I have made te deer are cu . in re r ou Y . ul joyf But, I will I feed my cats. my lunch; Also, chores. My sister has a my g me my work on doing o. Can you brin ing me. I ch E ed m br baby na u yo t t matter wha ots and dolls? It doesn’ rr ca u yo e will leav my table. like your hat. I ill put them on w I . ilk m d an cookies, are cute! a because you I like you Sant

Dear Santa,

Dear Santa, Thank you for bringing me a book last year. I have read it a hundred times. I like you because you make Christmas a pretty sight. You are also really smiley! I have been good at doing my chores, and making my bed. But, I have to work on sitting in my chair. My Auntie is coming home for Christmas. It doesn’t matter what you bring me. But, can you bring me a Wii U game? I live in Mannville on a farm. My house is gray and you will see a black cat. I will leave you carrots and cookies and milk. From, Chase Mannville School Grade 1

ook last me a big b I like g in g n ri b time. u foor Thank- yo . I look in it all the ou it s happy. Y e year. I lov you make Christma sleigh! I ic se you becau lso, you have a mag my puppies A p . u y d n e n n are fu y ve clea e sure I ha e sure that I make m d a m e v a h y k a M m s. to re cho have bed, but I have done all of my k, we got a e I , bed! Also went to Dawson Cre Can you t! I him Squir family and We named ixer, and horse . y p p u p new aint m ng me a p ve in please bri d a new brush? I li white and it n a is r, se le u g detan . My ho forts on a farm nd lots of a le s il g v o n d n a 2 e M v a h I d n sa k roof. you cookie the table, has a blac will leave n I o . d rd o a fo y r y e in m e reinde b y a e! m id d ts n u ill be o eggnog a er food w e d in re e but th From, Hailey School Mannville Grade 1

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

"Christmas Colours"

Poems Po oems F From rom m Mrs. Campbell’s Grade 3 Students at Mannville School ol Enjoy These “Christmas Colours” Poems From The Students Of Mannville School Gold

and s

ilver a

re the

By A va Z

ahar

Red is the color of

Red i colors a s of Bet Green the color h shi leh of hol is the ly glo ning on mem’s gliste c o l o e win ning C ro White hristm is the f my glimm g on a gre as sta en wr color Silver ering e r o ath on christ is the f a sn m o color m a w y s ﬂ fron tree ake of Grey is the wrapping ﬂittering d when it is t door paper decor own t color These are m of a sled s sparkling o the grou ated nd y favo kiing under urite o colors ff to the r the tree iver of Ch ristm as

Christmas lights, Rudolph’s nose an d Santa’s red suit Blue is the color of ice Green is the color of the Christmas tr ee inside my house White is the color of sn ow Orange is the colo r of the ﬁre inside my chimney Gold is the color of a star These are my favo rite colors of Chris tmas By Cheye

nne

McDonald Blue is the c o lo r sparkling Yellow is th lights from e color of d a railing a z z ling star ha Pink is the nging on m color of pre y Christma tty glowing Red is the c s tree lights over olor of ama m y bed in my r zing presen oom Green is th ts under my e color of a C h r is tm a s tree beautiful tr Goldis the ee in my ho color of a d u s e azzling sta These are m r in the sky y favorite c olors of Ch ristmas

By Jasmine Wat

lin

g Blue is the color of a sparkling ornam ent dangling from White is the color a tree branch of a glowing white sn ow ﬂ ak e on to p of my Christmas Red is the color of tree a glowing light on m y w re at h on my door Gold is the color of a glowing star upon the tree top Green is the color of my Christmas tr ee in my living room Brown is the color of my warm hot ch ocolate melting in my mouth These are my favo rite colors of Chris tmas

By Rylan

By Harley John

By Owen Harder

son

sky. ring star in the big black Gold is the color of a glitte in the kitchen. licious gingerbread house Brown is the color of a de tree. shining at the Christmas n su ng kli ar sp the of lor Yellow is the co y. ow falling from the huge sk sn ng kli ar sp of lor co the White is rvelous Christmas tree. Green is the color of the ma as night. t Santa wears on Christm tha it su the of lor co the Red is lors of Christmas. These are my favourite co

The County of Minburn would like to wish its residents a safe and happy holiday season

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

~C Councilil andd A Ad Administration i i t ti

Broadhea

g nose olph’s shinin d ht u R f o r lo o the dark nig in g in r e Red is the c m es shim ouse of snowﬂak r lo o c e top of my h th n o t s o fr Blluue is f s tree color o e Christma th f o p Grey is the to n star o ging color of the e th is n ing bells rin e in ld h s Go f o r lo co uits Silver is the lves’ furr y s e f o r lo o c e risstmas Green is th colors of Ch e it r u o v fa y These are m

y Jord an Wr the colo ight r of a de licious Orange turkey f resh fro Silver is is the color of a m my N the colo warmin Blue is ana’s ov r g of an am ﬁre in m the colo en r of a sp y ﬁrepla azing n e a c w e r k bike I g ling gar White i ot from land ha s the co Santa n Red is t l g o i r n g o f o s n himmer he color ing snow the walls of m of a glis y house teni on the g These a round re my fa ng ornament h anging vourite on my t color of ree Christm as

Gold is

By Stephen Ba ncroft

Red is the color of Santa’s coat and hi s pantss. White is the color of the snow on my lawn. Blue is the color of the bright sky. Gold is the color of the star in on my tr ee. Silver is the color of a sparkling orna m en t on the tree. Brown is the color of hot chocolate in a cup. These are my favo rite colors of Chris tmas.

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Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

pstein

By Tucker Kla

tmas night ng snow on Chris ni te is gl of r lo co tree White is the ts hanging on thhee en m na or ty et pr of the sleigh Silver is the color bottom of Santa’s n ea cl d an ce ni of the mas day Gold is the color ning sky on christ or m l fu ti au be y e of th out of the chimne es m Blue is the color co he r te af it of Santa’s sooty su istmas Black is the color rite colors of Chr These are my favo

Ashlyn H inton Brown is th e collor of S a n ta ’s reindeer ﬂ Red is the c ying in the olor of strip moonlit sky e d candy cane Black is the s outside by color of the my patio Yellow is th night on be e color of th autiful Chr is e sparkling tmas Day Pink is the star on top color of the o f Je s u s’ little hea little girls’ Green is th d dresses on e color of th th e stage e ﬂowers in These are m the oval sha y favourite ped vase colors of Ch ristmas

By Wyatt Dougl

ty night ringing in the fros s ll be ng li ng ji of n with joy Gold is the color ing the whole tow ll ﬁ s es in pp ha of house Silver is the color ing lights on the kl ar sp of r lo co ss e Red is th ining in the darkne sh ee tr d te ra co r of the de tree Green is the colo t on the Christmas en m na or g in ow r of a gl Orange is the colo ow in my backyard sn ng ri te it gl e th r of White is the colo istmas urite colors of Chr These are my favo By Zac

h Nicoll-R oss Green is th e color of a beautiful C Red is the c hristmas tr olor of San ee in my fa ta ’s ﬂuffy red ce Orange is th coat that he e color of s ’s w e h a iny Christm ring Brown is th as lights on e color of a y th u e m tr m ee y gingerbre White is th ad house b e color of th e in g e built freezing sn Black is the ow on the g color of the r o u n d d ark night sk These are m y up in the y favourite air colors of Ch ristmas

tree tmas s i r h my C replace en op of fi By J t n o t el in my g e n r s min a i fi g r g n o n i v i ow az fla the gl r of the bl e and the f o r o o n ca col col is the llow is the candy y stocking osty f d l o o r G Fr lb fm colo ge-ye olor o an named ght bu s the i c i l Oran e e a t h i t e nd wh Purple is of a snowm flashes lik s Red a lor tma hat the co h’s nose t s of Chris s i e t dolp olor Whi of Ru avourite c r o l o c yf s the are m e s Red i e h T anch na H

er By Jessica Rob

a roof sleigh landing on us go on m hu s a’ sus Sant e kings to baby Je is w Red is the color of , ch ri e th ed id use of the star that gu the door of my ho on g in Gold is the color ng ha h at re r of a beautiful w ound Green is the colo lying on the playgr ow sn e th of r lo co hair White is the olph’s handsome ud R of r lo co e th ght Brown is hristmas winter ni C e th in s ll be g of ringin tmas Silver is the color ite colors of Chris ur vo fa y m e ar se The

By Alivia Bake r

Red is the color of Rudolph’s glowing nose in the moonlit Gold is the color of sky a glistening star up on the Christmas tr Blue is the color of ee a sparkling ornam ent dangling from Silver is the color th e tr ee top of a shining angel taking off to see th White is the color e ti ny ba by of a tiny snowﬂake falling from the sk Green is the color y of a magniﬁcent m istletoe These are my favo urite colors of Chr istmas. By Jozlyn Whitten

Red is the color of jolly Santa’s suit that he wears on Christmas Day Brown is the color of Santa’s amazing reindeer stomping on my house top Yellow is the color of my glamorous star on top of the Christmas tree White is the color of Santa’s cool pom pom on his jolly hat P Pink is the color of a sparkling ornament dangling from the wreath on my front door Green is the color of my amazing wreath on my front door These are my favourite colors of Christmas

Merry Christmas and a

Happy New Year! ~ Ron & Judy Konieczny

Innisfree, Alberta 780-592-3994

Would like to extend a Happy Holiday to all of our clients and friends.

and n aso 2016! e s the st in y o e Enj the b all

Total Image Natural Foods would like to extend a warm wish of happiness to all of our customers this holiday season.

May 2016 bring you all the best! 4931 - 50 Avenue Vermilion, Alberta

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

MUSIC IS A GIFT THAT LASTS A LIFETIME

Your Music Center in Vegreville Our Stock Has Arrived

Come and check out our New Line of guitars and accessories!

would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and all the best in 2016!

NEW HOURS FOR DECEMBER Monday to Saturday 1 pm - 5 pm

Factory Direct

5225 - 52 Ave. - East Door, Vegreville, Alberta

780-632-4141

We will be closed from December 25 to January 5. We will re-open on January 6 and our regular hours will be Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays from 1 pm - 5 pm

Lawrence Sarafinchan Livestock & Equipment Hauling Viking, Alberta

780-385-2004

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Dear Santa,

. I like Dear Santa, me a spider-man ng gi in br r fo Thank you indeer. I have u have flying re toys and I do you because yo m e I clean up y ing to be us ca be od go been is go My big brother my homework. ease bring me pl u yo an tmas. C white. I home for Chris us rn. My ho e is bu in M in e liv toys? I apples! will leave you

Thank-you for bringing me a book, a shirt, an a truck. I love d it. I like you be cause you a really nice and give me presen ts. I have been helping my mom do the laundry. been helping m I have also y cousin. My fa mily and I like to watch movie s. I would like new pants to wear, and also some lego! I liv e in Mannville. My house is gr ay. I will leave you some milk . Johnny Grade 1 Mannville Scho ol

Dear Santa, Thank you for bringing me an Elsa doll last year. I like you because you ar e funny. You are red and blac k! help my cousin I have been good because I Ryl real puppy? Cou ey. May I please have a ld you also brin g me an American Doll bed? I live in M annville. My house is white. I will leave yo ur reindeer food . From, Julianna Mannville Scho ol Grade 1

From, Jeshua ol Mannville Scho 1 Grade

Dear Santa, Thank you for brin make-up last ye ging me my Monster High ar. brother broke it! I really liked it, but my I like you beca use you have elves. You are specials and al ways happy. I have been good ! I do my chores , and help my grandma. But, I will work on not hurting my brother so muc h! I and grandpas fo am going to my grandmas r Christmas. I do n’t care what you bring me, but this Christm as I would like Zooma Kitty. I a live in Mannvill e. My house is brown and it ha s a swing set. I will leave you M&M’s and PO P! From, Morgan Mannville Scho ol Grade 1

Dear Santa, Thank-you for bringing me a huge dinosaur last year. I love it! I like you be ca a magic sleigh . I like you beca use you have use you bring me things. I lik e yo presents. I have u because you bring me be have to work on en helping others. Also, I doing my chor es at home. I am having an ea rly Christmas w ith my Grandpa and G randma, and M alcolm. Can yo please bring m u eaD you bring a Mon ownward Rex? Also, can ster High doll for my sister? Can you bring my a farm. My hous mom new jewelry? I live on e is gray and w hite. I will carrots for your reindeer. And cookies! This is the last one…I will leave milk !

Rylan Grade 1 Mannville Scho ol

Dear Santa

st year, I Wii mini la reindeer. a e m g in g for brin e flying Thank you you because you hav good e have been k I li I e. ! ic it n s y ay love w al ed e help m vely, and . Also, I hav . My family You are lo en d ra B ed hes elp because I h ave to help do the dis me a xbox ng Ih ri t, b u e B . as m le o P I . m ario game? r Christmas is excited fo e a wii U, and the M and white. hav wn you 360. May I ille. My house is bro v I will leave n . y an st M u D ed live in am n t e my ca You will se ur reindeer! o y r fo ts carro From, Nick School Mannville 1 Grade

Dear Santa, Thank you for brin love it. I like yo ging a frozen night light. I u because you make Christmas special. You ar e caring becaus e you have flying reindeer . I have done re ally good on m spelling test. I y have helped m om with my brother. But, I need to work on soccer skills. I like to practice figure skating. You can bring me anything! I live blue. I have a do in Mannville. My house is g named Maggi e. I will leave carrots for your reindeer. From, Sofia Mannville Scho ol Grade 1

Dear Santa, Dear Santa, Thank you for bringing me a stuffy last year. I helped my mom put up the Christmas tree. I also help with the dishes, but I wasn’t helping clean the house. My grandma is coming for Christmas. Can you please bring me a LeapPad, clothes, and a stuffy cat? I live in Mannville. My house is yellow, it has trees! I will leave you cookies and milk. From Ryley Mannville School Grade 1

year. me a bee bee gun last Thank you for bringing u Yo p. sho toy have a big I like you because you big ur yo e lik I ly. bel ur are funny because of yo this year. My family beard. I have been good ng g with me. Can you bri cousin Donna is stayin le. My vil nn Ma in e liv I ? ma a longboard, please s on ve you milk and cookie house is gray. I will lea my table. From, Ryder Mannville School Grade 1

Dear Santa,

Dear Santa

st o Cart 7 la g me Mari in g e n v ri a b h r u fo o Thank you ! I like you because y o! I like it to e y v n n lo I fu r. re a ye nd you a a ur r, e e d e d in nts un r o flying re u put prese elping my mom, o y se u a c e you b been h tree. I have u please bring me a Christmas yo n n a use is brow rother. C dad, and b in Mannville. My ho k and il ve ave you m figure? I li g! I will le ble. o d a e v a h and I n my ta d carrots o cookies an From, Tanner School Mannville Grade 1

Thank-you for bringing me a Table play with it t last year. I all the time. I like you b have magic ecause you al sleigh. Y ou ar because you r belly is gig e happy. I like you gly! I have making my bee bed friends Autu , also I have been hel n ping my mn and Nic kolas. It has snowing ou tside. I like been to play hock mom has bee ey. My n because it is lighting the fire at nig ht cold inside because our was not wo rking. May furnace I please hav High Makee a Monster up set? I liv e farm. My h ouse is gray in Mannville on a . I will leav reindeer foo e yo d. My addre ss is Highw ur ay 881! From, Taylor Grade 1 Mannville S chool

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Two Hills Trends is having a Christmas sale throughout thee m month of December. be • 20% off everything i inn store as well as 50% off men’s en and women's omen's n te jjackets. winter res and Sk • New arrivals include M Maxi Dresses Skirts, sizes includingg 2 and 3X. ozy Fleece • Underclothing ffor Men and Women, PJ's for both, nice and cozy Wea nd so m e Wears and much more.

Come In We are having extended hours until Christmas. And See Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday 10 – 6pm The Delights. Thursday and Friday 10 – 8 pm

The week before Christmas we will open every day 10-8 for your shopping convenience. The staff wish everyone Merry Christmas and thank you all so much for your patronize.

Merry Christmas from the Innisfree Hotel!

Please enjoy a Safe and Memorable Holiday Season.

~ Barry, Mary Ann and Staff

780-592-3765

The Lakeland REA would like to wish all of its members a very happy and safe holiday season and best wishes for the New Year. ~ Lakeland REA Board of Directors & Staff

Viking ExtendiCare Enjoy Holiday Entertainment

esidents and their families were treated to some holiday entertainment on December 12 at the Viking ExtendiCare Centre.

Would Like Wish Our Customers And Friends A Very Merry Christmas!

5111 Railway Avenue, Innisfree 780-632-5529

Vegreville Mechanical Ltd. would like to wish all of its customer a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Please drive safe this holiday season and throughout the coming year. Vegreville Mechanical - Your complete auto & truck care and light duty DSL repairs.

4829 - 50 Ave Vegreville, Alberta 780-632-4140

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Mannville Library 2015 Wrap-Up

Mannville School Grade One with Mrs. Claus during Story Time

Submitted by Brenda Walker, Library Manager

t has been an amazing year here at the library! We are pleased with the increase in patrons, the participation of students for PD Day activities/ Early Dismissal days and the support from our community during the Library Teas. We appreciate each and every one of you who have walked through our door and all of the volunteers and Board members who have made many of our events possible. Speaking of support from the community, we held our raffle for the Annual Library Fundraiser. The draw was on December 5, and the lucky winners were: Apple Watch – Amy Shomachuk, Booklover’s Basket – MaryAnn Berg and Grocery Hamper – Brandan Lyster. We appreciate the support from all who bought and sold tickets, and congratulations to the above winners. Mrs. Claus was a hit with the students and staff alike. She took time out of her busy schedule of helping Santa to read to students from Preschool to Grade One. Thank you Mrs. Claus. On December 11, we held our First Annual Girl’s/Family Tea. It was a huge success, with 37 attendees, which included children, moms and grandmas. We look forward to the next one. Thank you to all who helped make it happen! We will be closed for the Christmas break, and will reopen on January 5. Please note that any materials checked

out will be due January 5 unless otherwise specified. If you are unsure of your due date, you can check the status of your books/movies on TRAC. The Winter Reading Program is from January 1 to February 29. We encourage participants of all ages. To participate, simply pick up a log sheet from the library starting in January and record your reading times. For every seven hours of reading time, your log sheet is entered for a prize. There is no limit to

how many books you read or how many log sheets you fill out. We are excited to see how many participants we will have this year. Fun fact: Our 2015 Winter Reading Program had 36 participants with a total reading time of 703.3 hours. Do you think we can beat those numbers? January is also a month of something new for us. We are joining forces with the Mannville School and will have an area set up for the Accelerated Reading Program (ARP). Students will be able to choose books based on colours, levels, and points, then complete the

The Innisfree is hosting the First Annual Farmer Spiel

January 1 to 3 160 per Team Entry



To enter your team call Derek @ 780-632-9786 or Chris @ 780-603-1024 or Bobbi Jo @ 780-581-0599

Preschool children with Mrs. Claus

Regular Curling in Innisfree will start on Jan. 4 and every Monday following. Season fees are $50 for Adults and $25 for Youth.

CURLING CLUB

quiz relevant to the books they read. If your child does not have a library card, please contact us and we will get them one. Library cards are available free of charge for anyone under the age of 18. Fun fact: We have issued 53 new library cards to students since September. For those of you who would like to either try something new or brush up on your skills, Art with Alvin is back on January 11. The cost is $70 which in-

cludes all supplies. All you will need to bring is a lunch. The fees are payable directly to Alvin at the beginning of the class. Something else that is new is the Footprint Project. To learn more about the Healthy Living Walking Project, join us at 10 a.m. on January 13. The meeting will be held here at the library and is open to all ages. There will be coffee and nutritious snacks available. We value the input from you, our community members. This is a Joint Community Project which involves the MMI FCSS, Mannville Library, Mannville Ag Society and Alberta Health Services. Coming soon is the Cricut Explore Air. This is a machine which draws and cuts images, and will be a hit with crafters. Watch our website for more information. Has your First Aid/CPR Certificate expired? Perhaps you would like to take the course for the first time? If so, you will be able to join us on February 13 and 14 here at the library. To register or find out more information, call the library at 780-763-3611 by January 29. That about wraps it up for this year. We would like to wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you all for making 2015 a great year. We look forward to seeing you in 2016!

Cash Prizes & Silent Auction

Don’t forget our other upcoming bonspiels! Men’s Spiel - Jan. 29 – 31 $160/Team Ladies Spiel Feb. 26 - 28 $160/Team Open Spiel Mar, 11 - 13 $160/Team Mixed Spiel Apr. 1 - 3 $200/Team

Super League will also start on Jan. 14 and every Thursday following. Fees are $400 per team and cash prizes will be awarded for each team win. The upstairs lounge will be open during Super League nights. Teams need to register before Jan. 4. To enter a team for either of these leagues call Derek at

780-632-9786

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Farm Wife Diaries - HO HO....NO!

By Deb Barber

t this time of year I could really use someone to save me from myself. Each festive season I promise myself I will NOT make a marathon out of this time of year and each year I end up grading myself an epic fail. It all begins the day after Halloween, as soon as the spooky decorations are packed away and the remnants of the orange and black card stock tucked back into storage, I pull out the gold and glitter and begin the adventure of creating a series of festive and fun holiday cards. At this point in time I’m confident that I can undertake the upcoming season of cheer with a well thought out and executed plan. Somehow along the way I fall off of schedule and wake up one day realizing the page of the calendar has flipped and December 1st is upon us. Abandoning Christmas card making I quickly switch gears as we set about to put together a Christmas train/village which is comprised of around 12 to 14 large rubber maid containers stored on a specially constructed ledge in the

garage thus requiring a tall ladder and manly muscles to haul the goods into the house and down into the basement. The train village is displayed on two structurally enhanced tables that only one man in this universe can reconstruct year to year. Of course he requires some female muscle (but no mouth) to assist him in the carting, placement and assembly. Picture the two of us; one on the thin side male (requiring the thermostat to be pushed to the upper end of the spectrum) and the female, not so thin plus enduring that time in life when heat is one’s enemy, struggling to bring two tables into the basement. I am in bare feet trying to maximize the amount of skin exposed for cooling effect and naturally we have to drop a table at least once, envision me attempting to suppress the pain from the impact on my arch and Sam muttering away about OHS rules regarding steel toed boots and the benefits of always placing safety first! I tend to walk away once the tables are delivered to the main area while he does his creative assembly which is usually accompanied by some colorful language.

This year we decided to up the challenge since carting in 14 rubber maid tubs and two tables plus accessories wasn’t sufficient and decided to bring a ‘real’ tree into the mix rather than the dilapidated looking artificial tree! Fortunately we had a selection to choose from down in our very own pasture. Knowing that a decision of this momentous proportion would be time consuming I smartly dressed for the occasion in multiply layers including extra warm non steel toed boots and mittens. Armed with measuring tape and chain saw we walked back and forth between the evergreen stands until we narrowed the decision down to the two best looking trees of the lot!! After careful measurements and discussion of fullness and limb adequacies we made the final choice and brought the beauty down. Upon carting it over to the truck someone reflected that we probably should have added an extra five or six inches so there would be adequate stump to sit properly in the stand....what is that age old adage...measure twice and cut once? Luckily the Christmas Tree angle was watching over us and the tree

fit flawlessly into the tree stand and since we had selected a nearly impeccably straight tree the struggle to ensure it was perpendicularly straight to the floor was resolved in less than 10 (or maybe it was 12) minutes! After carefully scrutinizing all sides, the best side was faced inward and the decorating began. A comment was made that it would take a great deal of decorations to turn this into any type of merry display, but after sorting through two rubber maids and adorning the branches with ornaments collected over 20 plus years even Scrooge had to confess it makes a pretty little addition to the fireplace room in the basement! Now with cards and packages in the mail, train set and decorations abound, outside lighting twinkling into the twilight things are coming together....oh what am I saying; there remains the gift wrapping, the Christmas baking and that last minute shopping yet to be done. Yep, ten days and counting and I can feel another epic fail in the air. All kidding aside, may this season bring you all the warmth and love that comes with spending time with family and friends and from our home to yours we wish you a Very Merry Christmas.

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Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Harry Michael Kulak Memorial Award

n remembrance of Harry Kulak, an educator primarily of the Innisfree School, a scholarship fund was created by the family to commemorate his legacy as a teacher. This scholarship is presented to the grade twelve applicant who meets or exceeds the award criteria to assist with his or her post-secondary education. At the Innisfree School Awards Night, on November 6, 2015, the 12th annual Harry Michael Kulak Award of $500 and an engraved clock pen set was awarded to Cyena Reece Marie Chadney, daughter of Jodi Chadney. Cyena was also the recipient of the Grade 12 Honors Award, High School Athletic Award, Waite & Nobes Families Scholarship, the A.T.A. Scholarship, Governors General Medal and the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship. She is presently enrolled at the Calgary SAIT Institute, pursuing a career in Chemical Laboratory Technology with goals of obtaining her Bachelor of Environmental Sciences. Cyena played an active role in school and extra-curricular activities. She won awards, medals and achieved recognition during her school years in both sports and academic studies, claiming the honors role throughout her school years. Her school sports during her junior and senior years included volleyball, badminton, flag football, soccer, track and field, and as a team mate participated at a competitive level in district and zones. You would often see Cyena volunteering as the assistant soccer coach for the younger groups. Cyena was involved in school affiliated activities in various capacities. For fund raising, she participated in the Cancer School Run, during junior and senior years, by raising pledges for the Alberta Cancer Society. With her classmates, she helped with the Xmas School Supper, Grad Supper, Fish and Wildlife Supper, Ranfurly Steak Supper and bottle drives. In preparation for the graduation, she was instrumental in assisting with the multi organizational tasks for this event. As one of the Class Historians’, Cyena spoke candidly of her fellow classmates with an added twist of humor. Reflecting on a special tribute to her classmates, she highlighted the 2015 graduation ceremonies as the valedictorian in delivering the most memorable speech. Cyena, a member of the Alberta 4-H program for nine years with the Innisfree 4-H Multi Club, had a full slate of obligations. She served on numerous

Cyena Reece Marie Chadney - Recipient of the H.M.K.M. Award. committees and held executive positions such as club reporter, secretary and president. Throughout the years, she participated in the 4-H speaking contests that led to the club, district and regional levels. She volunteered her help with the bake sales, along with collecting recyclables such as electronics, tires, and batteries as a fund raising project. As a member of the Minor Hockey Association, she played on several teams during her junior and senior school years, with ice positions of left wing or defense. She was a team mate on the Killam/Sedgewick Girls Midget team, the Mannville Boys Bantam team, and the Viking Girls Pee Wee team that took them to the provincial playoffs and a bronze medal presentation. Over the years, there were lessons in Ukrainian dance, swimming and piano. Besides being an active member within her school, 4-H council, community and numerous volunteer programs, she chose to partake in a project that would remain unforgettable, but yet a most life experienced venture, by volunteering her help in the 2013 Calgary and area flood. Cyena, with the assistance of her mother were first posted at the Siksi-

Letter To The Editor – LREA Continued from p. 5

tion 4(2) of the Rural Utilities Regulation states that “The board must call a special general meeting of the association when requested to do so by at least 25% of the members”. A petition committee has been formed in an attempt to collect the approximately 350 signatures. Remarkably, the Board has heard from several members that

have signed the petition in error as they were misinformed of the intent and implications of the petition. If you have signed the petition in error please contact the office and we will add your name to the list of disqualified names. To date, Lakeland REA has not been presented with a petition to call a special general meeting to vote on the Atco Sales Offer. Despite the fact that there is not sufficient interest to sell

ka First Nations, where they were in charge of the incoming donated clothes, to be sorted according to gender and size for distribution. Their second posting was at a Calgary T-Shirt Manufacturing Company that was raising funds for food hampers. At this location they packaged the requested orders that were being shipped to individuals and businesses. She sums up this adventure as ‘unbe-

lievable, with the amount of destruction being unreal’ what once was a picturesque landscape, was now the sight of mangled ruins, a vivid evidence of Mother Nature’s forceful act.’ Amidst her commitments, Cyena managed the time during her senior school years for part time and summer employment. She was employed by Innisfree Petro-Can, Vegreville No Frills, and the Town of Vegreville, capably handling various tasks and duties. Over the years, there were many avenues of perseverance, but expresses valuable knowledge gained through the exposure of the work force, school education, extra-curricular activities and community involvement. Cyena, is grateful to her family for their unconditional love, support and commitment, and does so, in recognizing her mother as being the inspiring motivator, exercising constant encouragement to excel to the best of her abilities. Her chosen quote “When you talk you are only repeating what you already know. When you listen is when you will learn.” Cyena, we commend you on your accomplishments with congratulations on receiving the Harry Michael Kulak Memorial Award. It is through your hard work and character that made you an excellent candidate for this award. Those that know you, describe you as quiet, sincere, reliable, independent, a dedicated worker, and a delightful young lady so genuine at heart. May you find success in every venture, faith in all your dreams and new heights of happiness down every path you choose. The Kulak Family - Shirley; Karen (Greg) Coleman & Isabella Woods; Kevin (Kim) Nathan and Rylan Kulak.

Shirley Kulak presenting the H.M.K.M. Award to Celeste Matovich, School Principal, accepting on behalf of Cyena Chadney. the REA, on December 10, 2015 ATCO Electric chose to extend their offer to purchase with a new expiration date of June 30, 2016. LREA is a viable, community owned and operated business dedicated to serving our owner-members. The Lakeland REA Board of Directors would like our members to know we unanimously oppose this offer to sell. Aside from the financial matters, LREA members should be aware that ATCO has just completed the layoff of

more than 400 linemen and operational employees. Your REA still has its full complement of Journeymen living in our service area to provide the normal, excellent 24/7 service to members. The service to ATCO customers has been negatively impacted by these layoffs – including the recent ice storm in the Stettler area. More food for thought for our members to digest. Robert Peyton, Secretary/Treasurer Lakeland REA Limited

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Carrier Of The Week Value Drug Mart

Mannville Elks And Royal Purple Serve Christmas To Those Alone During The Holidays

T T

his week’s Carrier of the Week is Vegreville Value Drug Mart conveniently located along Highway 16A. The drug store has a number of last minute Christmas gift items so stop by the store to complete your holiday shopping list. Pictured here are sales associates Marianna Lysak and Pat Motiuk as they hold up the latest edition of the Hiway 16 News which is available at the main check out. Thanks so much for carrying our weekly newspaper.

STAY SAFE AROUND POWER LINES Always assume a downed power line is energized. If you happen to contact a power line with your vehicle or equipment, avoid injury or death with these steps:

he Mannville Elks Club #395 along with the Royal Purple Elks #205 held a Christmas supper on Sunday, December 20 for local widowers and bachelors of the area to enjoy an evening out with others who may be alone for the coming holiday. The Mannville Elks have been holding the supper since the club was officially formed in 1958 and over the years have fed thousands of people since. As visitors streamed in for the meal they were asked to sign the guest book which houses the names of every visitor who has attended the yearly suppers. The evening is a free meal to all who

attend and Elks president Jim Myhovich says the club does it a service to the community, one of many the organization performs each year. Elks’ member Ed Eschak was asked to say grace before digging into the turkey, ham and all the trimmings. If anyone was still hungry they were treated to desserts of plenty as pies, tarts, ice cream and whipping cream filled a table. Two names were drawn for door prizes and those went to Ed Eschak and Ron Gawreletz. Although the evening was completely Continued on p. 19

1 Break the contact. Do what you can to break the electrical circuit. When possible, move the arm of your sprayer or auger, or whatever is touching the line, away from the line. 2 Stay put and keep others away. If you can’t break the contact, stay in your vehicle, keep others away and call for help. 3 Call for help. Call 911 or ATCO Electric’s emergency line (1-800-668-5506) so crews can isolate and ground the line to make it safe to work around.

IT’S BEST TO STAY IN YOUR VEHICLE, BUT IF YOU MUST EXIT YOUR VEHICLE, FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO STAY SAFE for help. Call 911 or the door to from your 1 Call 2 Open 3 Jump ATCO Electric’s emergency line your vehicle. Be vehicle, landing (1-800-668-5506).

sure to open it as wide as possible.

with both feet together. When jumping, make sure you don’t touch the vehicle and ground at the same time.

or hop, don’t step. 4 Shufﬂe After you jump, shufﬂe or hop at least 10 metres away. Make sure the heel of one foot never passes the toe of the other. Don’t touch anything (vehicle, passengers) until you’re clear.

10 M For more information inf on working near power lines safely, visit ATCOElectric.com Clip and save for your vehicle.

Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

War Veteran Remembers Early Visits With True Love

Continued from p. 18

free to those who attended, the Mannville Elks and Royal Purple Elks hold a number of fundraisers within the community with all funds raised being donated back into the local organizations. Elks’ member Nestor Bohaichuk said the group knows the importance of supporting the organizations within the community as well as a number of important services outside the area. Previously the Elks have donated funds to the Mannville Health Care Centre, McQueen United Church, the Historical Society, Mannville Library, Mannville School awards and scholarships as well

as STARS air ambulance. Although the members are dwindling in numbers they are a strong group of men and women committed to their community. Bohaichuk says that many members have passed away but the Mannville Elks still has one of its original members of the group, Chuck Thumlert whose name is on the original decree which still hangs on the wall at the Mannville Elks Hall. President Myhovich says the group is eagerly trying to recruit younger members to help keep up the tradition of serving the community and if anyone is interested in joining, they can contact him to do so.

Hit And Run – Innisfree

resident of Innisfree had two vehicles involved in a hit and run on two separates evenings this past weekend. The first vehicle was a Jeep which the owners say was hit sometime between Friday night after 10 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. The second was a Ford Escape which was hit on Sunday night at 8:15 p.m. Both vehicles were parked outside the owner’s house at 4800 block of 50 Ave in Innisfree. Some residents say the Sunday night crash could be heard two blocks away. If you have any information about these two incidents or any other crime call Vermilion RCMP or 911. ~ Photo Submitted

Dennis and Nellie Ursuliak recently celebrated their 73 wedding anniversary and are pictured here at their Vegreville Manor home.

ike every farmers’ kid, everybody knew one another for miles around. I was no different. I noticed this girl growing up. What caught my attention more was that she was always with her dad doing various farm work, and because I grew up also being a kind of chore boy. So time went by and we had some sort of picnic or gathering almost every Sunday in places like Norma and Pruth, Spring Creek and Hairy Hill. And during the winter months it was the same. There were many snow covered ponds and broom ball became quite popular. We would choose clubs and challenge one another. This is the way I happened to be seeing Nellie on a more regular basis. Because of her interest in being a farm girl, I decided she was the girl I wanted to spend my life with. So as time went by the Second World War came about. At this time Nellie and I saw each other quite often. I also became 21 years old and I got called into service. October 9 was the day I received my basic training at Camrose. Then onto Brandon, Manitoba for advance training and because of my athletic ability I was kind of noticed by the NCOs and that was in my favour. I was chosen along with about 60 other gunner soldiers. I know that I got that position from my athletic ability and of course my ability to drive. I was fortunate to serve at places like Boundary Bay, Esquimault, and Nanaimo but mainly at Patricia Bay Headquarters. Written by Dennis Ursuliak

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Vol. I • №36 • Tuesday, December 22, 2015

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7455 HWY 16A W Vegreville, AB 780-632-6003