A wildfire broke out on April 18 at a property near the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village in Lamont County.
Dispatch was called at approximately 2:30 p.m. and Lamont County Emergency Services deployed multiple stations to the site. Crews from Lamont, Chipman, Andrew and Bruderheim responded and additional support was requested from Strathcona County.
The fire quickly spread from the initial location into the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Crews focused attention on historic buildings but multiple buildings including administrative and operations buildings were impacted with significant damage including to the Visitor Centre.
At one point the fire jumped to the North side of Hwy 16 and alerts were sent out. Highway 15 was closed for approximately two hours with the provincial alert being cancelled after about 30 minutes. At that point the fire was considered contained and no residences were deemed at risk.
High winds created significant challenges, and prevented response from air support until the next day when Lamont County Emergency Services received assistance to address hotspots.
Crews were successful in preserving all historical buildings.
A joint statement provided by Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women, and Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, MLA for Fort Saskatchewan Vegreville and Parliamentary Secretary for Settlement Services and Ukrainian Evacuees, was published the following day.
The statement read: “On the evening of April 18, a devastating fire broke out at a property near the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. While we are incredibly grateful to the first responders whose swift response saved the historical buildings on site, we are saddened to confirm that the Visitor Centre buildings were lost. These buildings included exhibit spaces and housed many irreplaceable artifacts that told the stories of generations of Ukrainian Albertans.
This is a profound loss—not only for the Ukrainian community, but for all Albertans who value and honour our province’s diverse cultural heritage.
To the community that holds this place close to heart, please know that we share in your grief, and we recognize the cultural importance of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village to the Ukrainian Albertan community and all Albertans. We will provide more information as it becomes available in the coming weeks. Alberta’s government is committed to reopening the site when it is safe and appropriate to do so.”
Lakeland MP Shannon Stubbs offered words of appreciation to first responders, shared some personal memories and encouraged others to share their stories in an April 19 Facebook Post which read in part: “On this Easter weekend, let’s reflect on where we’ve come from, and pray for peace abroad
and for all the people in the area who will no doubt be impacted in some way or another by the fire yesterday. So many firefighting crews throughout rural Alberta are entirely volunteer or mixed crews, like the amazing folks from Lamont County who helped last night to contain the fire on Hwy 16 and fight it in the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Thank you to all the area first responders, and I’m grateful that the people and resi-
Afternoon Oldtime Dance
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Rich and melodious music with driving rhythms and spirited tempos brightened the day of 110 enthusiastic folks at this event at Vegreville Elks Hall on March 30.
The Brandon Hachkowski and Ukrainian Tradition Band delivered this entertainment, with Brandon on fiddle and accordion and bandmates: Kevin Hachkowski on accordion, Terry Kotyk on guitar, and Irene Pankiw on tsymbaly.
This band aims to promote and preserve the older Western/Canadian Ukrainian music.
Brandon Hachkowski, a resident of Vegreville, was born in St. Catharines and spent most of his life in the Niagara region of Ontario.
His background in music goes back to his Ukrainian background; Brandon followed in his father’s footsteps by playing the fiddle, for which he started taking lessons at four years old. From there, he took up the accordion when he was seven.
He performed with his family since he was seven years old.
Brandon likes to entertain the older crowd by performing old-time music as not many musicians still play this music.
“When I go to perform and play with the band, it is nice to see the older folks get up and dance and smile,” Brandon expressed.
This event raised $550 for the Ukrainian Musicians Association, a non-profit organization out of Dauphin, Manitoba. “They honour and celebrate past Western/Canadian Ukrainian musicians. My father belongs to them. They need as much funds as possible as they are raising funds to build a new hall in Dauphin, Manitoba. They have a hall there with a bunch of memorabilia and displays of those past musicians to honour them. So, they are trying to get a new hall that will be a bit bigger to add more musicians to it.”
Attendee Richard Marchenko expressed that the music was very good. “I like the way the instruments made a unique sound.”
Main: Guests were enticed to dance.
Inset: Brandon Hachkowski and the Ukrainian Tradition Band performs. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos)
90 Years Ago – January 10, 1934
Work started this week on renovating the Clements Block, which has been untenanted for the past year or more on the ground floor.
Fifteen years ago the Vegreville Chamber of Commerce commenced holding its meetings each Monday following a noon luncheon, and it has me consistently and regularly since it was instituted. It is officially associated with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of London, England, and is recognized as the most progressive and firmly established body of its kind in the Province of Alberta.
The Hairy Hill skating rink is now a great delight to everybody in our community. We can boast of a full-size rink, well equipped, with electric light, etc.
The funniest thing seen this week is a horse “passing out” on New Year’s night.
It is reported that there are a few cases of chicken pox in the Lavoy district.
Everyone in Whitford seems to be enjoying the warm weather around Whitford after the cold spell experienced in December.
It is a popular fallacy that rabbits do not require water. A supply of clean water should be available to them at all times.
75 Years Ago – January 12, 1949
Red clover seed production in Canada in 1948 was the largest in at least 20 years. The latest estimates place the crop at approximately 11.5 million pounds. This is more than double the 1947 crop and the 11-year 1937-47 average.
All electrical clocks stopped in Vegreville on Monday afternoon at 4:15 o’clock when the “juice” ceased to come over the wires due to a transformer that was burning up in the Canadian Utilities Plant here. Alberta’s first case of polio for 1949 was reported Tuesday from Red Deer. The victim was a 31-month-old boy officials of the office of the director said.
The oldest university in the world is El Azbar, at Cairo, founded in 972 A.D.
The Clive Junior Oat Club has been awarded a trophy offered by the Alberta Grain Growers Association for the best oat-growing among juniors. The club will retain the trophy permanently as they have taken it three years in a row.
A Communist newspaper in Brussels quotes Belgian Scientist Max Cosyns as saying that Belgium is ahead of the United States in some fields of atomic energy research.
50 Years Ago – January 10, 1974
The Dale Walker rink received the News Advertiser Trophy after winning the second event in the mixed spiel on the weekend. Dan Beaudette was on hand to present the trophy to the rink consisting of Dale Walker, skip; Muriel Trenaman, third; Doug Koppel, second and Polly McCarty, lead.
Frank Golinowski, owner of Twin Lake Construction was present to present his trophy to the first prize event winners. The rink consisted of Trev Weir, skip; Mrs. Weir, third; Walter Gegolick, second and Olga Gegolick, lead.
There will be an organizational meeting of the Vegreville Cultural Association on Tuesday, January 22nd at the Chateau Dining Hall in Vegreville. The Vegreville Cultural Association which was incorporated on November 15th, 1973, is sponsoring the Canadian Showcase of Ukrainian Culture.
Roy Warwa, president of Wilroy Real Estate takes pleasure in announcing the appointment of Mike Markowsky as agent in Vegreville. Mr. Markowsky is well known in the Vegreville area having operated a retail business, Mutual Surplus Sales Ltd. for the past fifteen years. He has also taken an active part in community affairs and was honored some years ago by being appointed a Senator of Jaycees International. He is also a past president of the Vegreville Rotary Club.
25 Years Ago – January 12, 1999
In one of her last duties as outgoing Rotary Club president, Laetitia De Witt made a magnificent presentation of $1500.00 to the Vegreville Composite Athletic Fields on behalf of the club. At the same time, she welcomes new Rotary President Bruce Thurston who in between running his grocery store and serving on the Chamber executive, will lead Rotarians into the sunset years of the old millennium.
At its year-end celebrations, members of the Hospital’s Auxiliary were presented with service awards. Lena Geleta – 30 Years; Olga Ewanchuk – 25 Years; Kay Gordey – 20 Years; Rose Greschuk – 20 Years; Phyllis Tarapacki – 20 years; Ann Markowsky – 20 Years; Winnie Zakordonski – 15 Years; Nellie Dumont – 15 Years; Louise Dubuc – 15 Years; and Nellie Sokalski – 10 Years.
New Year’s baby Kiersten Reneigh Nicholson – Pasieka was born two seconds past midnight to mom Lorna Pasieka and dad Ron Nicholson. Maurice Michaud of Two Hills Alberta Power presented a cheque to Linda Zacharias representing the Town of Two Hills. The donation goes towards the $11,000.00 worth of repairs needed on the arena Zamboni to bring it up to proper operating standards.
Letters Welcomed
One role of the Vegreville News Advertiser is to promote dialogue on various issues of concern to area residents. We accomplish this by welcoming Letters to the Editor and allowing various issues to be debated through our pages. All letters must contain the writer’s name, address and phone number. Anonymous letters will not be printed, however the writer’s name may be withheld from publication in special circumstances deemed appropriate by the Publisher. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to edit letters for length, clarity, spelling and grammar, taste or for reasons of potential libel. A maximum of 150 words is preferred. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to withhold letters from publication.
Thank You Pres. Trump
FROM THE PAGES OF THE VEGREVILLE OBSERVER COMPILED BY DAN BEAUDETTE Every time a newspaper dies, even a bad one, the country moves a little closer to authoritarianism... - Richard
Arthur Beaudette
News Advertiser – Opinion
Despite the disarray created by the agents of chaos in Washington, there are many countries, including ours, who should offer at least a little thanks. To be frank, next to the dumpster fire that is now the United States government, many countries now look tame by comparison.
Heck even penguins of the Heard and McDonald islands should send a thanks over to the White House. If Donald Trump had not imposed tariffs on this uninhabited island (well other than the inhabitants of penguins and seals) who would know who they are? You can’t pay for that kind of press coverage and free publicity. It even continues to pay dividends with the US Commerce Secretary stating that the imposition of tariffs on the islands was meant to close “ridiculous loopholes.” I challenge the US Commerce Secretary to show us which loopholes are more ridiculous than placing tariffs on the penguins.
Perhaps the biggest thing that dumpster fire to the south did was light a little fire under our own butts. As a whole, Canada has been getting progressively weaker and more complacent over recent years. Now with tariffs, threats of new/more/different tariffs, talk of annexing part (or all), of Canada and so on, Canadians seem to have found our pride and a little gumption.
One part of Canada hit hard is Ontario. Last week Premier Doug Ford announced a new bill which will remove barriers to internal trade and labour mobility. In his press briefing, Ford told reporters that trade barriers within Canada was to blame for raising the cost of some goods and services by almost 15 per cent. Yes, our own inability to work with our provincial neighbours increases the cost of everyday life in Canada.
Like with many things the red tape and regulation in Canada has become more and more onerous over the years. It was stated for example that currently some trucks have to stop at provincial borders to change signage, so harmonizing those requirements would save those companies time and money. You would think this would be an obvious one. But… no, someone in government decided this was a smart… or they had a friend who made special signs. I’m sure there were what seemed like rational and legitimate reasoning behind this, but this is exactly what happens when you exist in a bubble and cannot see past your desk, much less your provincial borders.
Alcohol tax has always been an issue and despite the tension with the US, just last month, Alberta decided to increase its tax on all wine sold in Alberta, effective April 1, including that of B.C. and Ontario winemakers. Similar issues have been brought up by microbreweries and small distilleries.
The announcement by Premier Ford was accompanied by agreements (MOU’s) being signed with Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Could this be the beginning of a stronger, leaner Canada, willing to co-operate for the betterment of the Federation? We can hope so, but I suspect the tune will change when it involves a pipeline or something that isn’t in the best interest of Quebec. I could be wrong; I can be cynical that way.
In the meantime… thank you President Trump for lighting the fire (with your dumpster) in Canada that it seems no politicians were able or willing to, for so very long.
Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com
-
Kluger
Province Launches ‘Buy Local’ Campaign
Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk
MLA for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville
get off the sidelines and into the game.
The Government of Alberta is launching the ‘Buy Local’ campaign to encourage consumers to eat, drink, and buy locally to show our unified support for the province’s agriculture and food industry. Through this campaign, we are providing tools to help Albertans easily identify Alberta- and Canadian-made foods and products to support our local economy and show thanks to our province’s hardworking ranchers, farmers and food producers.
We are taking action to end maltreatment in sports. To ensure that sports are safe and open for everyone, Alberta’s government is partnering with the Alberta Sport Leadership Association to create a new Safe Sports Strategy to encourage quality programming in safe sporting environments, empowering Albertans to
As we head into the warmer months, it’s important to ensure you are staying safe when enjoying Alberta’s beautiful outdoor spaces.
Our government has issued a bear activity advisory for backcountry and outdoor areas.
We caution anyone who is spending time outdoors in bear country to travel in groups, make noise regularly, keep dogs on a leash at all times, carry bear spray and know how to use it, store food in bear-resistant containers or facilities, and avoid areas with fresh signs of bear activity indicated by tracks, scat or diggings. If you do encounter a bear, to prevent from escalating the situation, remain calm and do not run, rather back away slowly with your eyes on the bear and
speak in a calm, firm voice. If a bear approaches, prepare to use bear spray when within range. Please report any bear sighting or dangerous wildlife activity to Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services.
A friendly reminder from AFSC that April 30 is the last day for:
• Annual Crop Insurance: last day to file Land Reports for fall-seed crops
• AgriStability: last day to select optional reference margin methodology for the 2025 program year
• AgriStability: last day to enroll, pay fees (without penalty) or opt-out for the 2025 program year
• Perennial Crop Insurance: previous day to remove grazing livestock from insured Hay fields
• Annual Crop Insurance: last day to apply, make changes to (including
Buy Local - CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
SHOP LOCAL. SAVE LOCAL
Support the local businesses that keep your community and its newspapers thriving.
Hairy Hill World War I Hero Chester McGowan’s Legacy Preserved
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Chester McGowan secured his place in military history more than 100 years ago, but it wasn’t until recently that his uniform, medals, photos and detailed information of his service were given a permanent home with the regiment he served.
Granddaughter Karen Campbell explained that, “Chester served overseas in WWI and returned home to farm near Hairy Hill, later moving to Vegreville. His WWI uniform was donated to the Vegreville Legion and four years ago the family re-donated it to the Loyal Edmonton Regiment museum.”
On March 5, seventeen of Chester’s grandchildren, great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren were on hand at the Loyal Edmonton Regiment as they unveiled the display case with the uniform in the main Griesbach gallery at the museum. The display included the following
information:
Sergeant Chester O. McGowan MM 49th Battalion (Edmonton Regiment) C.E.F.
“A veteran of the Somme and Vimy Ridge, Chester O. McGowan earned the Military Medal for his leadership and bravery at the Battle of Amiens in August 1918. Weeks later, he was shot in the head by a German machine gunner during a major attack. While wounded, he witnessed a German soldier bayoneting other wounded men. Bleeding heavily from his scalp, McGowan was mistaken for dead and spared.
He survived the war and returned to farm in Hairy Hill, Alberta.”
As Karen pointed out, “The amazing thing is if that German soldier would have bayonetted him after being shot in the head and left for dead in the field, none of us would be here now.”
Karen said Chester and his wife Pearl were postmasters at Hairy Hill and that she and her family got to spend lots of time there with them as
well. “They moved to Vegreville and spent their remaining days in a small house across from Chico’s drive in.”
Chester returned home from France in 1919. Chester and Pearl were married in 1921 and went on to have 5 children; Thelma Westrom (husband Lawton owned Lawton’s Electric, Vegreville); Carey McGowan, Marion Hart (McGowan), Norman McGowan and Myrtle Campbell (McGowan).
Loyal Edmonton Regiment historian Joe MacDonald provided the family a presentation and tour of the museum following the officially unveiling ceremony.
Karen said that hearing about where her grandfather fought in France, which battles and the incredible odds of making it back safely to Canada as well as the action he took to be awarded the military medal was very impactful.
“The unveiling of his WWI uniform and this presentation made us all feel a little closer to him or uncovered who he was for those attending who did not
know him. Pride in our rural roots in Alberta and pride for our family’s part in Alberta’s military history.”
MacDonald shared a small reflection of his perspective of McGowan’s impact. He stated that, “Chester O. McGowan MM’s story, legacy and bravery continues to inspire countless people not only in Edmonton, but across Alberta.
A member of the 49th Battalion (Edmonton Regiment) in the Great War, he was awarded the Military Medal for bravery in battle. An honour few soldiers received. Perhaps most remarkable is his harrowing experience during the final major engagement of the war at Cambrai, in Northern France. Wounded in action, McGowan was left behind as German forces temporarily regained control of the battle-
Historian Joe MacDonald with family members. (Karen Campbell/Submitted Photo)
updating your declared acres) or cancel coverage
I again want to congratulate Vegreville local Sarah Melenka and her teammates on winning the Bronze medal for
volleyball in the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. Alongside her teammates, they made a historic milestone by securing Canada’s first-ever Paralympic Medal in Paris last sum-
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Preparing for Flower Beautification
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
People love growing flowers in Vegreville! Before the Vegreville Garden Club’s regular meeting on March 31 at Vegreville Agricultural Society Boardroom, 37 attendees listened to Guest Speaker Sarah Laudin from Sunshine Blooms Farm near Andrew, talk about cultivating flowers.
Sarah farms 3,200 acres of crop land and one acre of flowers with her husband and two little sons. Laudin’s family farm specializes in dahlias, sunflowers, and gladiolus. They grow all their plants outdoors and have a few raised beds in their front yard and two small greenhouses where they start their seeding.
The main crop on their farm is dahlias, where they grew over 2,600 plants in 2024.
NOTICE
COUNTY OF MINBURN NO. 27
ATTENTION LANDOWNERS
2025 ROADSIDE SPRAYING PROGRAM
The County of Minburn No. 27 ASB Department will be conducting a Roadside Spraying Program along municipal roadsides for the control of invasive weeds and brush (up to 2m tall) in the 2025 season.
If you do not want to have spraying completed adjacent to your property' please contact the ASB Department office to have your name and land description added to the no spray list., Please note that “DO NOT SPRAY SIGNS” are available from the ASB Department office. There is no charge for these signs, however landowners are responsible to erect and maintain them on their property (making sure the signs are clearly visible during the entire 2025 spray season). A reminder, however, if a landowner does not want adjacent road allowance sprayed, the landowner will accept full responsibility for noxious weed/brush control on said road allowance or ditch.
If a no spray area is wanted along a primary or secondary highway, the landowner will have to enter into an agreement with Alberta Transportation and NOT County of Minburn.
2025 ROADSIDE MOWING PROGRAM
Please be advised that if you are wanting to cut hay on road allowances, that agricultural ditch cutting must be completed by July 31 each calendar year. The County of Minburn Roadside Mowing program along municipal roads will begin Friday August 1, 2025. All standing grass will be cut up to a 15 foot cut from the shoulder into the ditch. People wanting to cut hay on a road allowance need to complete all cutting prior to the mowing contractor's arrival. If hay has been cut and is in swath, mowers will go around the swathed ditch, however all standing grass will be mowed with absolutely no exceptions.
No mowing will take place under this program prior to August 1, 2025. If crop is seeded on the road grade (shoulder to toe of slope), it will be mowed. - No Exceptions -
If you should have any further questions regarding the roadside spraying program and/or the roadside mowing program please contact Quentin Bochar, Manager of Agriculture and Municipal Services at (780) 632-3715, Ext. 3.
They plant sunflowers during the long weekend in May and will usually plant them until July 1. They grow eight varieties and 800 plants of gladiolus, which are treated like annual plants on their farm, and they repurpose their bulbs every year.
Laudin explained that they grow 85 percent of their dahlias from tubers, and the others are grown from cuttings they propagate themselves.
Laudin recommended planting these flowers in 150-foot rows spaced one foot apart. “We grow in single rows with landscape fabric between the hemp mulch around the plants for weed control.
When growing dahlias, tubers can be pre-sprouted by simply warming them up. Dahlias are sensitive to cold temperatures and should not be planted until after your last frost date.
It is best to plant dahlias four or five inches deep into well-worked soil about two feet apart. You can add bone meal or supplements at planting, as dahlias are heavy
feeders.
Dahlia tubers are prone to rotting, so they should not be watered until sprouts are seen above the ground. Pitch out the main stem when the plants reach about eight to twelve inches tall or have four to five sets of leaves. This encourages branching and significantly increases the number of blooms.
“We dig our dahlias every fall after hard frost and before the ground
Guest Speaker Sarah Laudin. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
freezes. Once we dig our dahlias, we try to wash,
and
and store them in
Laudin said.
Club President Diana Ashton, said they discussed upcoming events like the Ground-Up Market in May, where they will be hosting the guest speaker and stressed the importance of volunteering to make it and
events successful.
Attendees
flowers. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Farm Safety Week
Caring for Animals, People and the Land
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Floating Stone Ranch is owned by Mike and Denise Kotelko, along with their sons Wes, Zakary and Jackson.
This ranch is located in the County of Two Hills, just 20 minutes north of Vegreville.
Ranch Manager Calvin Laschowski said they serve as the cow-calf operation for Highland Feeders Ltd and are part of a legacy that began with a mixed grain and purebred cattle farm founded in 1976 by Jack Kotelko and his sons. Today, the operation encompasses a 36,000-head feedlot, a 15,000-acre grain farm, and the 3,000 cow-calf pairs of Floating Stone Ranch.
Laschowski has been managing Floating Stone Ranch for the past decade. A local to the community, along with his wife, Natasha Kutryk, Calvin graduated from Two Hills High School before earning an animal science degree at the University of Saskatchewan. His career included a stint as an assistant dairy manager in New Zealand, which broadened his agricultural knowledge before returning to manage Floating Stone Ranch. He leads a dedicated team of five full-time crew members who use horses to manage the daily routines
involving cattle care and land stewardship. The ranch’s twenty horses, individually owned by the cowboys and cowgirls, are integral not just as working animals but as partners in completing the tasks of the Floating Stone Ranch.
The safety practices that are followed here include:
1. Communication: Clear and frequent communication is critical, especially during busy seasons, such as calving and weaning. Crew members often work in remote pastures with limited cell reception, so everyone needs to be informed at the beginning of each day. Daily morning safety briefings are conducted with all Highland Feeders Ltd. employees to ensure everyone is aware of their daily roles and responsibilities. This practice is crucial for coordinating tasks and adapting quickly to changes that arise.
2. Respect and Understanding of Livestock: Working with livestock requires an understanding and respect for their physical size and natural behaviour. The ranch invests in learning low-stress handling techniques to minimize stress for both the cattle and the crew. This approach helps prevent situations where animals might react unpredictably, thereby reducing the risk of accidents. Understanding the livestock’s behaviors is not just about safety but also promotes a stress-free environment for the cattle.
3. Taking Care of the People: Floating Stone Ranch is committed to the well-being of its team, recognizing that physical and mental health are critical to maintaining a productive ranch. The ranch strives to recognize and accommodate individual needs and outside commitments such as family and recreational activities. There will always be more work to do and never enough time, but we cannot
Corny Berg. (Floating Stone Ranch/Submitted Photo)
Craig Onyschak. (Floating Stone Ranch/Submitted Photo)
Junior Fehr.
(Floating Stone Ranch/Submitted Photo)
Farm Safety Week
take care of the cattle if we do not first take care of ourselves.
Laschowski closed by saying, “Floating Stone Ranch strives to be more than a workplace. It aims to create a culture where every team member and animal is valued, contributing positively to the agricultural industry and their community. The ranch is proud to uphold the Kotelko family legacy, remaining steadfast in its commitment to the animals, its people, and the land.”
How to Protect Outdoor Workers From Heat Stress
¬Heat-related ailments are common among agricultural workers. Here’s how they can stay safe out¬doors this summer.
1. Drink plenty of water. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses too much salt and water due to excess sweating. For this reason, it’s important for outdoor workers to remain hydrated.
2. Take breaks in the shade. Heat stroke, which is a serious condition, occurs after prolonged exposure to extreme heat. Therefore, outdoor workers need cool, shady places where they can rest and should take five- to 15-minute breaks every hour. This is especially important during periods of intense heat and for those who wear protective gear.
3. Don’t rush through tasks. Outdoor agricultural workers should build up their heat tolerance gradually. Initially, they’ll need to move slowly and take fre¬quent breaks, but this is more efficient than dealing with a heat-related illness.
4. Know the signs. All outdoor farm workers should know the signs and symptoms of heat-related ailments and feel comfortable reporting them. Supervisors should also be able to spot them.
Heat-related ailments can be dangerous and lead to serious complications, especially when treatment is delayed. Make sure you have a plan to handle heat-related health emer-
gencies and that workers and supervisors know about it.
Know the signs
These symptoms of heat stress should never be ignored:
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
• Confusion
• Shallow breathing
• Rapid pulse or heartbeat
• Red, hot skin
• Lack of sweating
Mickayla Farrell. (Floating Stone Ranch/ Submitted Photo)
Calvin Laschowski and Natasha Kutryk. (Floating Stone Ranch/ Submitted Photo)
Tributes
Iris TYMCHYSHYN
August 24, 1940 – April 25, 2024
Release Me
Release me, let me go.
I have so many things to see and do.
You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears,
Be happy that we had so many years.
I gave you my love and you can only guess,
How much you gave me in happiness.
I thank you for the love you each have shown,
But now it’s time I traveled on alone.
So grieve awhile for me, if grieve you must then let your grief be comforted by trust.
It’s only for awhile that we must part
So bless the memories with in your heart.
I won’t be far away, for life goes on,
So, if you need me, call and I will come.
Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near, and if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear all my love around you soft and clear.
In loving memory of our dearest Mom, Baba, Great-Baba & Great-Great Baba Lena Laschowski
July 1, 1924 – April 23, 2012
MOM
Missing you….
Your tenderness and loving ways
Still get us through our lonely days
The picture carries in our mind
With love that stands the test of time
You helped us find our walking shoes
And taught us lessons, We still use
Each time we think of you,
We smile, cause we know your love was true.
Forever Loved and deeply missed, but always remembered by
Your loving family, Children, Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren & Great-Great Grandchildren
KLEPARCHUK, Leona (Pevonia)
November 4, 1932 – April 16, 2025
On Wednesday, April 16, 2025 Leona Kleparchuk of Hilliard, Alberta passed away peacefully at the age of 92 years, with her family by her side.
Leona is survived by her loving family, daughters Barbara (Brian) Andruchow, Marlene (Bob) Rohatynchuk, MaryAnn (Melvin) Fried and Eileen (Steve) Vereschagin; 13 grandchildren James (Rachel), Kimberly (Paul), Kristine (Curtis), Carmen (Keith), Candace (Justin) and Daniel: Mitchell and Colin (Lindsay): Jason (Nenita), Ryan and Landon: Aaron and Jillian; 8 great grandchildren Ella, Emma, Christopher, Luke and Jack: Maksym: Joshua and Aliyah; one sister Sally Patrie; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Leona was predeceased by her husband Mike; her parents John and Anna Stowbec and brother Zachari.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Russo-Greek Orthodox Church - Chipman, Alberta with Father Alexios Surayev officiating. Interment to follow in the Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “St. John the Baptist Russo-Greek Orthodox Church - Chipman” or to the “Lamont Health Care Centre.”
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, 780-603-5800
HUNKA, Orest
June 3, 1931 – April 14, 2025
We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Orest Hunka of Mundare, Alberta formerly of Vegreville and Norma on Monday, April 14, 2025 at the age of 93 years.
Orest is survived by his wife of 71 years, Elsie; one son Barry (Brenda); one daughter Darlene (Bill) Schmidt; three grandchildren Haley Hunka, Leah (Alejandro) Torres Polo and Alex (Jill) Schmidt; three great-grandchildren Grace, Theo and Gavin Schmidt; and one sister Annie Zaharichuk. Orest was predeceased by his parents William T. and Alice Hunka; two brothers John and Nick; and one sister Mary Semotiuk.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Autumn Rose Funeral Home in Vegreville, Alberta with Fr. Benny Ambrosie officiating. Interment to follow in Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to “Covenant Health Foundation – Mary Immaculate Care Centre –Mundare, Alberta.”
To send condolences please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD.
Vegreville, Alberta 780-603-5800
One is never truly gone when they live on in the hearts of others.
YUSKOW, Nick December 12, 1934 – April 14, 2025
On Monday, April 14, 2025, Nick Yuskow of Vegreville, Alberta passed away at the age of 90 years. Nick is survived by his loving wife of 66 years Stefania; three children Audrey (Darrell) Wilcox, Wayne (Renné) and Christine (Mark) Pirwitz; five grandchildren Scott, Christopher, Blake, Dillan (Katie), and Devyn; five great-grandchildren London, Max, Elizabeth, Jaxon and Aria; and one sister Anne Yakimyshyn; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He is predeceased by his parents Mike and Katherine; three brothers Jack, Peter and Walter; and one sister Mary. A Divine Liturgy of Christina Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Vegreville with the Basilian Fathers officiating. Interment to follow in Riverside Cemetery. Memorial. Donations may be made to the “Heart & Stroke Foundation” or the “Covenant Health Foundation – c/o St. Joseph’s General Hospital.”
To send condolences please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, Alberta 780-603-5800
Poppy Trust Fund: Supporting Canada’s Veterans
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Often times, thoughts of Canada’s Veterans come to mind during the Legion Poppy Campaign; but not a lot is known about how that fund is administered and what types of supports and services are available to Veterans past and present who have and are currently serving the country.
Legion Branch No. 39
President Terry Kuzyk, Service Officer Diane Lydom and Honour and Award Officer Rod Stewart provided valuable information in order to raise awareness for residents in Vegreville and surrounding areas.
Stewart said both the Legion and media don’t talk an awful lot about it. “Poppy money is public money held in trust by the Legion.” Kuzyk added, “The Legion is to distribute funds under specific rules in our general bylaws as to where the monies can go, how it can be distributed. It’s very strict and very controlled as to who can get it and why they can get it.”
Lydom pointed out that contributions to the Poppy Fund directly support Veterans and their families. It is interesting that, “There’s a very broad definition of Veteran. It used to be at one a Veteran was someone who had war time service, and now a Veteran is considered anyone who has served, completed their training and were released (discharged) other than dishonourable,” noted Stewart.
“We cover members of the RCMP, and many of them don’t understand they are considered Veterans by the Legion either. Case in point, my partner’s father who, for years said no I’m not a Veteran. He was a
huge part of this Legion, however, he never considered himself a veteran because he didn’t think RCMP qualified, even though it was clearly stated, he just didn’t understand it to be the case,” noted Kuzyk.
Speaking to the importance of the Poppy Campaign and Poppy Trust Fund, Stewart pointed out, “The bulk of the funds stay local and we can use poppy money to provide something that’s for the betterment of the community if it also benefits Veterans. For example, we paid for the cost of a defibrillator for an ambulance when the Town was still operating an ambulance system. We’ve made donations to the hospital for specialized equipment. Local Service Officers have a small discretionary amount they can use to support Veterans on a one-time basis. We had a case in point. A Veteran was referred to a fairly distant hospital regarding a hip replacement surgery. We provided the transportation costs for that.”
Other examples include donations to the University of Alberta to purchase a rehabilitation chair support research, STARS air ambulance service, the local Veterans Luncheon and providing Christmas
Comfort Packages.
As outlined, use of Poppy Trust Funds may be used for:
• Grants for food, heating costs, clothing, prescription medication, medical appliances and equipment, essential home repairs and emergency shelter or assistance
• Housing accommodation and care facilities
• Funding for transition program that are directly related to training, education and supports
• Comforts for Veterans and their surviving spouses who are hospitalized and in need
• Veterans visits, transportation and day trips
• Accessibility modifications to assist Veterans with disabilities
• Educational bursaries for children, grandchildren and great grandchildren of Veterans
• Support of Cadet units
“As part of the Poppy Trust Fund we have to report to the public how much was collected and where we distributed those funds,” said Kuzyk. Any funds that are not expended are carried forward to the next year. For example, in 2024 the Vegreville Legion Branch collected $22,000 in funds. But the amount varies between $14,000 and $18,000 on average.
Stewart pointed out that funds are restricted, and cannot be used for memorials or expenses of Decoration Day services. “They are to help living Veterans and get them direct support or community support that will benefit them.
Even if a person thinks it’s such a small thing to donate, it can be a game changer or improve quality of life for Veterans. It really does make a difference.”
From L-R: Diane Lydom, Rod Stewart and Terry Kuzyk. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Andrew Rural Academy Foundation Appoints Superintendent
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
On April 14, Andrew Rural Academy Foundation (ARAF) announced the hiring of Dr. Natalie Rose to the position of Superintendent of Schools.
After an “exhaustive search over the past month and a half” the decision was made to select Dr. Rose, stated Project Manager Stan Zabrick. “We had identified a particular skillset and competencies which we believed were critical to our school’s success now and into the future.
While we did interview other strong applicants, no one offered the unique blend of business and education background coupled with deep Alberta roots committed to rural enhancement.
We are convinced there is strong alignment of values to what we want our school to be and we couldn’t be happier about this hiring.”
According to ARAF’s official media release, “Dr. Rose offers our school a unique and comprehensive background spanning a number of posts in education and in business across Canada, the U.S. and Europe. She has established extensive networks and relationships that may be leveraged in our school’s interests.
Dr. Rose is a skilled practitioner in strategy and tactical planning. She possesses a strong track record of stakeholder engagement, which will enable our school to map out a coherent long-term direction based on the input and involvement of parents, community members and other key influencers.
Currently a resident of Northern Alberta, Dr. Rose will work with the Foundation Board on all aspects of the Andrew Rural Academy plans and actions as we prepare for an exciting and inspiring opening for the 2025-2026 school year.”
Dr. Rose stated during a telephone interview with the News Advertiser that she took the position because she wants to contribute to the school’s success in a meaningful way.
She has resided in northern Alberta for the past 20 years and feels like sometimes rural and northern regions are neglected, and she hopes to make an impact through her work with ARAF.
“I applied because I have a passion for teaching, educating and training.” Dr. Rose said she’s always looking for creative solutions and will officially begin her duties starting May 1.
Dr. Natalie Rose. (Andrew Rural Academy Foundation/Submitted Photo)
Fortier News Correspondent
Children learned how to express kindness at the Stay and Play program at Kalyna Family Resource NetworkVegreville and Area on April 11.
Spokes programmer Cheryl Sorensen said there were 17 participants. The theme was
materials to write little notes about caring and friendship. There was also a craft project where kids could colour spring bugs. They also had a story read to them. “This helps kids because it teaches them about saying kind words to others and learn when it is appropriate in their lives to use kind words.”
Cassandra Adams with three-month-old daughter Lorianna Free play time. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos)
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According
granddaughter, Karen
a German soldier systematically executing wounded Allied troops with a bayonet. As the enemy soldier approached, McGowan’s injuries
appeared so grave that he was mistaken for dead—his life inadvertently spared. That moment of mistaken mercy not only preserved McGowan’s life, but also made possible the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—many of whom have since carried forward the torch of remembrance with dedication and distinction.
In 2023, members of the McGowan family took part in the Loyal Edmonton Regiment Association’s battlefield tour of North-West Europe, walking in the footsteps of their ancestor. Their presence, along with the powerful anecdotes of
Fun Faith Journey for Easter
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Eleven children and seven adults seemed excited to refresh their knowledge and learn additional facts at the Easter Egg Hunt and Potluck Supper, a Maundy Thursday Community event at Vegreville United Church on April 17.
Coordinator Holly Cependa explained that nine stations represented a snippet of the passion story. The participants had to look at the poster and try to
predict what the station would be about. Then they listened to a storyline, chatted about what it meant, and had an activity to do that was related to it. For example, the storyline was ‘Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem, people were cheering, and the authorities were jealous.’ The discussion was about ‘why did he choose a donkey? Why were the people excited to see him? Why were the authorities jealous?’ The activity was pin the tail on the donkey. Then they were challenged to do a conga line to the next station. As they left the station, they all received a sweet treat for their bag.
She went on to say that the goal was to remind everyone of the reason we celebrate Easter. It’s not about candy!
“We also wanted to open the event up to the entire community by inviting them all to participate in the potluck, and if they wanted, they were welcome to stay for the service afterwards.
The organizers were all pleased with the event, the number of attendees for the egg hunt, those who helped make the potluck banquet, and those who stayed for the service.
The ‘Spirit’ is alive and moving about in our community,” Cependa added.
McGowan’s service, brought a deeply human dimension to the tour, helping participants connect more intimately with the lived experience of the soldiers.
Images and reflections from the journey, alongside McGowan’s story, have since been featured in the official Fortyniner magazine, where they now inspire an even broader audience within the Loyal Edmonton Regiment family. Moreover, his legacy is now permanently enshrined in the Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum, where his story will be preserved and passed on to future generations of soldiers and citizens alike.”
Chester McGowan, top row third soldier from the left with members of the 49th Battalion. (Karen Campbell/Submitted Photo) field.
to his
Campbell, McGowan witnessed
Participants follow Jesus’ steps from Holy Week to Easter. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
dences in the area are safe.
It hurts my heart to think about the damage and all the families whose ancestors and original homesteads are in the incredible gem that is the Ukrainian Village. Lamont County, where I grew up, is known as the Cradle of Ukrainian Settlement in Canada. Like my husband’s Ukrainian family, many families have been here since before Alberta was even a province officially, and the Ukrainian Village honours and celebrates all the people who built most of the communities in Lamont County and surrounding areas from the ground up.
While we all hold the families and people represented by and involved in the Ukrainian Village in our hearts, and await more details of the fire... please share your connections, memories, photos, visits and stories of the Ukrainian Village so we can share the load, comfort and support each other, just like the people and communities did for all those hard, trans-
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formative years.”
The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village open air museum has been a cultural destination since the mid-70’s and is owned by the Province of Alberta. It has more than 40 historical buildings on-site.
As of publishing, the incident is still under investigation, including official cause.
The News Advertiser would like to thank Jay Zaal, Communications Coordinator at Lamont County and David Makowsky, Director, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village Branch for their availability and prompt responses to our inquiries.
Charred area along the north side of UCHV adjacent to Highway 16. (Strathcona Firefighters/Submitted Photo)
Water bomber in motion on April 19. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Entrance to Visitor Centre. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
