Vegreville Embraces Christmas
The enchantment and wonder of the holidays were in full display when Vegreville launched the season with the Annual ‘A Very Vegreville Christmas’ event on November 28.
Initially, RONA staff hosted a hot chocolate concession stand at Rotary Rendezvous Park, where they collected funds and food for Vegreville Food Bank. Mayor Tim MacPhee, along with a crew of children, announced the countdown to the Light-Up.
Businesses also offered sales,
and treats in partnership with Vegreville and District Chamber of Commerce.
Vegreville Recreation Centre was the place to enjoy a Toonie Public Swim and a free public skate.
As well, Vegreville Centennial Library was packed with attendees having pictures with Santa, participating Visiting with the Big Man in Red.
(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
WHAT’S INSIDE
Food insecurity continues to be a growing challenge, but helping to meet that challenge and lessen the impact are kindhearted people and organizations in larger and smaller communities, including rural areas within the County of Minburn.
Marilyn Newton, Manager of the Village of Innisfree Public Library, recently talked about ‘The Little Free Pantry’ with the News Advertiser.
Newton said, “The Little Free Pantry is a year-round service for all residents in our service area: Minburn, Innisfree, Ranfurly, and the surrounding rural region.
We launched the Little Free Pantry in May of 2024. In the months leading up to it, I noticed more people coming into the library asking where they could access a food bank. Many of them faced barriers such as limited transportation or no vehicle at all, making it difficult to get to the Mannville-Minburn-Innisfree (M-MI) Food Bank.
I spoke with Joan Anderson and Val Mytz, long-time volunteers with the M-M-I Food Bank, about creating an informal partnership. My fiancé, Jason Forsey, built the pantry itself, Joan and Val stocked it with items from the food bank so we could open with a solid start.”
She went on to say, “The Little Free Pantry has been very well used since day one, and the past couple of months have been our busiest yet. People are incredibly grateful. One thing that stands out is how many people who use the pantry will also
donate back when they’re able.
We’ve had strong support from residents throughout our service area. Donations have included non-perishable food, produce, meat, spices, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and even cash donations. We also have residents contributing seasonal items—this year a community member is donating Christmas wrapping supplies to help families during the holidays.”
One recent example, noted Newton, came from the Innisfree Prairie Bank Museum, “which donated leftover produce from its recent community supper after members Dale Cates and Yvonne Parasynchuk suggested it be shared with residents through our pantry.”
Another example, would be the Innisfree-Minburn 4-H Beef Club which purchased food for both The Little Free Pantry and the
Little Free Pantry Creating a Positive Impact in Minburn County
M-M-I Food Bank.
Andrew and Melissa Graham with their three daughters from the Geneva Lake Cattle Company near Mannville have been strong supporters as well as the supporters who made donations at their farm stand this year. Melissa said that the outpouring from people who came to the farm stand allowed them to contribute even more to the two groups. She expressed her gratitude to for the generosity of customers, and said 100 percent of the credit should be given to them. “It’s inspiring, the community we come from.”
Overall, Newton said, “The feedback has been nothing but positive. Our residents consistently express gratitude and support, and many have donated multiple times to help keep the pantry stocked.
This project has had a big impact on our community. We’re filling a gap by offering an essential service that isn’t available directly within Innisfree. With the rising cost of living, many people are struggling to make ends meet. Some also lack transportation to reach the food bank in Mannville. Having accessible food and essentials right here in town removes a major barrier for those who need help most. Joan Anderson continues to volunteer her time delivering food hampers to the library for residents when needed, with all hampers prepared by the M-M-I Food Bank.”
Mannville & District Food Bank Co-ordinator Val Mytz stated that, “For more than 30 years, the Mannville & District Food Bank has supported individuals and families in Mannville, Minburn, Innisfree, and surrounding areas. With financial support from our local businesses, community organizations, county and generous individuals, along with steady in-kind donations and local food drives, we are able to continue offering this essential service.”
The Mannville & District Food Bank operates twice a month out of the McQueen Memorial United Church in Mannville. “We provide delivery service to shut-ins and to residents in Mannville, Minburn, and Innisfree. As client num-
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Library Manager Marilyn Newton and 4-H member Roady Myshaniuk with some
Submitted Photo)
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Agriterra Equipment
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Canadian Tire
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Ernie’s AutoBody
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Finelines Professional Painting and Decorating
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G&R Sand & Gravel Ltd.
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HCL Site Services
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Kal Tire
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Lakeland Power Co-op
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Rocky Mountain Equipment
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Royal Canadian Legion
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Rona / Vantage Builders
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Vito’s Steak & Pizza and Sports Lounge
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VM Systems
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90 Years Ago – December 4, 1935
No less than 500 of Archie Coxford’s pets at Ell Island Park are being knocked over this week, the purpose being to reduce the size of the buffalo herd at the Park to reasonable numbers. The buffalo are then bled, dressed and the meat is frozen for shipment to eastern points where buffalo steaks are both rare and high-priced and, probably, quite as tough as those sometimes sold around these parts.
Mr. Mitansky of Warwick is now well established in his general store, and besides dispensing groceries, footwear, and clothing, serves the motoring public with “White Rose” products.
Still, some threshing is to be done at Whitford, but it will wait till spring. It’s nothing strange to notice as you pass along the roads to see standing in the fields of 40 acres, 80 acres, and as high as 100 acres cut and in stooks but not threshed. A good many farmers say what they have threshed and chopped for pigs, has no feeding value, so they are rushing their hogs to market.
75 Years Ago – December 6, 1950
F. E. Maricle of Hamlin, director of District Four of the Farmers’ Union of Alberta, has been asked for his resignation because of his association with the Canadian Peace Congress. He was a delegate to the World Peace Congress in London and Warsaw last month and is en route to Canada. This development appeared to be part of a general fight between conservative and left-wing groups for control of the FUA.
The new fire truck, or fire engine, had arrived and is now in the fire hall. Bright, shiny, and ready for operation.
Interest was created in the Vegreville district in 1945 to construct a Memorial Hall in Vegreville in memory of the heroes of World Wars 1914-1918 and 1939-1945 which would serve the community as a suitable meeting place. The Legion was consulted in this matter and a committee was elected to raise funds.
Mr. William Chilibecki of Warwick has leased the former Co-op store building at Warwick. Mr. Chilibecki intends to open a general store in the near future.
Referring to the coyote hunt, which was held in New Kiew district recently. We learned a few things about such hunts and at the same time got one coyote with hounds. No shells were wasted! And one magpie – of course with the shotgun.
50 Years Ago – December 4, 1975
As of August 1, 1975, Ron Trivers is the Vegreville and area Farm Management Consultant and is the first person to fill this new position here.
A total of 747 persons walked through AGT’s doors in Vegreville during AGT’s Open House Tour. W.R. Skitch and D. Kropielnicki of AGT were on hand to explain some of the complex circuits and teletype testing.
Construction of the 59th Avenue sanitary sewer line, to be eventually hooked up to the Environment Centre, is progressing steadily.
Albert Nowchuk of Willingdon, Lawrence Polny, and Peter Pawluk of Mundare were among the district farmers who were involved in the protest against poor conditions for cow-calf operators. Farmers in over ten different areas in Alberta and some locations in Saskatchewan drew up protest cards, mounted them, and took to their farm machinery, and trucks. They drove down various highways and held up traffic.
Just a reminder: Stop in at the Innisfree Museum and see one of the best collections of Indian artifacts in Alberta. Have you ever seen an actual petrified Dinosaur egg? If you haven’t, you better drop in and see the one at the Innisfree Museum.
50 Years Ago – December 5, 2000
Anne Kornicki received congratulations and a trophy from Mundare Business Association President Tracy Jordan after being named Citizen of the Year.
Brenda Dziwenka representing the Mundare Business Association presented a plaque to the Junior Citizens of the Year, Danny Retzlaff and Mazie Sung.
Ray Talaga of Mundare Farm Equipment received the Business of the Year trophy from Valerie Retzlaff representing the Mundare Business Association.
Tracy Jordan of Back to Basics Day Spa received the Business of the Year trophy from Mundare Business Association representative Valerie Retzlaff.
Congratulations and thanks to the children and staff at A.L. Horton School for their generosity in the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Program. This year 65 individual shoeboxes and one huge teacher’s package were collected.
Carol Koch, representing General Watch and Clock and TransCanada Pipelines Ltd., presented Crisis Association Chairperson Kathleen Bohaychuk with a cheque for the operation of the Help Line and other expenses. $208 came from Light-up hotdog dales and TransCanada donated $800.
The Vegreville Pool Sharks have competed at invitational meets at Grant MacEwan College, Kinsmen Sports Centre and St. Paul. Many of our swimmers have brought home first, second and third place medals.
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
name may be withheld from publication in special circumstances deemed appropriate
ABCD of Smartphones
Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser
I often have conversations with people about technology partially due to the other hats I wear, and partially because there really is no way for many of us to separate from it. It’s interesting to hear from them about how they think technology affects their daily lives. The topic is more relevant than ever now the conversations often include AI and everything that brings to the table. As with any technology from the past or current, it can be used for good or evil. However, what makes me most curious is how, despite all the evidence, there are still people who turn a blind eye and only listen to their echo chamber to re-enforce their beliefs, no matter how wrong they may be. That’s also the beauty of opinions. Everyone has one.
Monday, researchers released a paper that was a collaboration by a team spread across a few organizations including Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, UC Berkeley and Columbia University. It was published by the American Academy of Pediatrics (aap.org). Of course, since these are organizations based in the US, they were studying US based subjects.
The “Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study” or ABCD Study follows children from childhood to adolescence and includes 10588 kids across 21 sites. This ongoing study provided the data the researchers used for their analysis.
The research group was looking to answer the question of what health outcomes were associated with smartphone ownership and with the age of smartphone acquisition. They tested the association of smartphone ownership and age of smartphone acquisition with depression, obesity, and insufficient sleep in early adolescence. They hypothesized that smartphone ownership, especially at a younger age, would be associated with worse health outcomes.
Some interesting stats emerged from their data. 95% of teens ages 13 – 17 own a smartphone according to Pew Research. Researchers found that at age 12, 63.6% of participants owned a smartphone with the median age of acquisition being 11.
The group looked at 3 potential outcomes. Depression, obesity and insufficient sleep.
The research concluded the following:
Smartphone ownership in early adolescence is associated with poorer health outcomes. This included depression, obesity and sleep deficiency that was independent of socioeconomic and parental confounders. Earlier smartphone acquisition was associated with greater health risks. The age of first ownership was linked to greater likelihood of obesity and insufficient sleep by age 12.
Recent smartphone acquisition was linked to adverse health outcomes. 13 year olds who newly acquired smartphones reported poorer mental health and sleep quality, even after adjusting for baseline measures at age 12.
The team found that compared to 12-year-olds who didn’t own a smartphone, those who did had a 1.3 times higher risk of depression, a 1.4 times higher risk of obesity, and a 1.6 times higher risk of insufficient sleep.
Smartphone ownership was associated with depression, obesity, and insufficient sleep in early adolescence. Findings provide critical and timely insights that should inform caregivers regarding adolescent smartphone use and, ideally, the development of public policy that protects youth.
The lead author of the study, Dr. Barzilay noted his nine-year-old wants a phone. He said they’re “not getting a phone anytime soon. Clear decision.”
Interestingly, in a world first, Australia’s upcoming social media ban has drawn international attention. Starting December 10, Australia will require major platforms to block or eject users under 16 or face multimillion dollar penalties. A bold attempt to sharply curtail youth exposure to harmful online content.
With all of this evidence, do we need to ask any more questions? I’m sure someone on TikTok or X (Twitter) will disagree.
Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com
ATB Donates to Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
SubmiStaff from ATB Financial and ATB Community Foundation had a rewarding day when the proceeds of their fundraisers and donations helped them contribute $31,810 to Friends of the Ukrainian Village Society (FOUVS) toward the restoration of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village after the 2025 fire.
ATB Community Foundation Executive Director David Wighton explained that the foundation was created last spring, and it is ATB Financial’s philanthropic arm. It is basically the mechanism of how ATB supports communities. ATB contributed $20,000 to this project, and they had a goal to try to outsize the impact that they have, so they created a matching amount for clients and Albertans who cared about the village, where they matched up to $10,000. So, $20,000 was from ATB, and $11,810 was donated by community members.
ATB Financial Everyday Banking Advisor Cindy Baydala shared that the Ukrainian Village is a very important part of her and her family’s lives. Both of her children went to the kids’ programs when they could attend from four to 12 years of age. “My daughter was a volunteer counselor there, and my mother was a director. We were always involved with the village. When the devastating news came out about the fire, ATB Managing Director Devin Selte reached out to me and asked what we could do. So, I reached back to him.”
Baydala and ATB Financial Branch Manager Angie Halvorson-Vandale added. “We collected donations, and Mundare ATB was selling ribbons. We were selling popcorn, taking donations, and the children from our staff members sold juice to raise funds one day. Also, we have a jean fund where if we wear jeans on Friday, all the amount donated goes to ATB Cares.”
Friends of Ukrainian Village Society Executive Director Gordon Yaremchuk and President Gail Fenton shared that they are going to use the funds for the fire recovery because, after the fire they weren’t able to do any fundraising. Normally, they
ATB Donates - CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
Staff of ATB Financial with Friends of FOUVS from L-R: David Wighton, Devin Selte, FOUVS Executive Director Gordon Yaremchuk, FOUVS President Gail Fenton, Amanuel Webeshet, Cindy Baydala, Angie Halvorson-Vandale, Sarah Bryant, Kari Martin, Brooklyn Maciborski, Amanda Scales, Shelley Daskaluk, Kelly Miller, Teresa Humeniuk. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
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Dine and Dance Success
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Ninety attendees from all age groups relished the Harvest Celebration Dine and Dance at the Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville on November 29.
The evening began with cocktails and continued with a delightful meal of roast beef, chicken, potatoes, salads, and desserts, prepared by volunteers from Sunshine Café.
After this, music by Salt and Pepper Trio happened.
Ben Plamondon is the lead player and singer. His bandmates are Jean-Paul Gauthier, the bass player, Aline Gauthier, the singer, and the keyboard player.
All these musicians are from Plamondon.
Ben shared that he chose the name for this group because he wanted to come up with something funny and because of their hair colours. He started performing music at 12. “We had sock hops at school during recess, and brought instruments in, so I thought it was cool to play the guitar.
I have been performing for over 50 years now.
To decide what song selections to play, I listen to a lot
of YouTube. You want to pick songs that people can dance to. We do a lot of oldtime music, country, polkas, waltzes, and more,” Ben added.
It was evident, the moment this group played, that they were seasoned musicians from the catchy and pleasant rhythm of their polished performances.
A young attendee, Kyle Gauvin, said this was his first time attending an event here, and he was impressed.
Sunshine Club President Carlene Wheeler expressed that they hosted this event because it was time to showcase the club and to let people know that their facilities are perfect for these types of events.
“This has been such a big success, we will continue to have these at Christmas and in the spring.
We just love people, and we wanted to see people socialize and get together,
enjoy themselves, and relax in an intergenerational setting. We have a wonderful crowd of so many different age groups here.
The organizers put so much effort into it. Without the volunteers, this would not have happened!” Wheeler added.
YEARS
"Congratulations to Baba Jane, the beloved matriarch of Stawnichy's, on reaching this incredible milestone! The family and entire Stawnichy team would like to thank Baba for simply being Baba. From working tirelessly six days a week, ten hours a day, nearly every day of the year, to handing out hundreds of Kinder Eggs to delighted little ones, and making countless "uptown" runs for mail and groceries — Baba Jane has always been, and continues to be, the heart and anchor of our operation."
Guests stepping out onto the dance floor.
(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Christmas Candlelight Service
(News Advertiser/ File Photos)
Akasu Palliative Care Society
Submitted
Grief and loss can be from any sort of trauma, death of loved ones, death of a pet, change in health, lifestyle, community, accidents etc. At Christmas this Trauma can become unbearable.
Every year, the Akasu Palliative Care Society hosts the Christmas Candlelight Service of Remembrance for people in our community. This FREE event provides comfort to those feeling grief and loss during the holiday season. This special event features guest speaker - Janine Brisebois - “That Grief Recovery Lady”. “Janine is an advanced Grief Recovery Specialist who is interested in the impact that trauma and grief have on our nervous systems and our ability to be well. She uses the Grief Recovery Method to create an action plan to move beyond the pain of loss”.
For more information on the Christmas Candlelight Service of Remembrance visit https://akasupalliativecare.ca/
Growing Festive Cheer
Rosanne
Fortier News Correspondent
A delectable variety of food, a lively Christmas Sing-along led by Companions on the Journey, and a silent auction featuring everything people could want or need were the features that 44 attendees enjoyed at the Vegreville Garden Club Christmas Party and Potluck at Vegreville Legion Hall on November 24.
President Diana Ashton said this was a way to celebrate the good year their club experienced and an opportunity for members to be with their spouses, and the club to appreciate those who helped them.
shared that they raised $1095 at the silent auction, and a tub of food that will be delivered to the Vegreville Food Bank.
sell food at the village, have a
shop, and a children’s camp, and they weren’t able to do any of that as the site was closed all season. “We own the red barn at the village, so there are a lot of expenses with maintenance and insurance. So, we need funds to keep us going and maintain our facility, and right now, we are hosting government staff who have moved to the second floor of the building. So, we are supporting the site
in that way. Just this week, we learned that the Taras Shevchenko Foundation will be half-funding the restoration of the Lamont Coal Shed. It is a building that the friends saved a few years ago. But we have to provide funds for the other half.
As a registered charity, we get audited annually, so there is a fee for that. We also have insurance and expenses we have to pay for. Without support from the community and ATB, we wouldn’t be able to operate.
The UCHV still employed the interpreters over the summer because they didn’t want the students out of jobs. The friends are the employers because we are the HR.
We are very grateful to ATB and everyone else in the community who donated.”
County Of Two Hills No. 21
Proposed Redistricting: NE 19 53 12 W4
A Public Hearing concerning Bylaw 6-2025 will be held on Wednesday, December 4 at 11:00 a.m. at the County of Two Hills Office, 4818 50 Avenue, Two Hills, Alberta. The purpose of Bylaw 6-2025 is to redistrict NE 19 53 12 4 from Intensive Campground (IC) District to Agricultural (A) District to reflect the closure of a recreational use (moto-cross track) and the return of the land to agricultural use. Below is a sketch of NE 19 53 12 4.
A copy of Bylaw 6-2025 may be reviewed and inspected on the County of Two Hills website, www.thcounty.ab.ca, or at the County Office in Two Hills (4818 – 50 Avenue) during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
Submissions may be made by any person(s) who claim(s) to be affected by the Bylaw or from any other person whom Council agrees to hear. Any written submissions that are mailed, emailed, or delivered to the County of Two Hills, must be received no later than Friday November 28, 2025 (12:00 Noon), to be included in the agenda package and should be clearly marked 'Bylaw 6-2025'. Oral or written submissions may be made at the Public Hearing without prior notification to the County of Two Hills. Submissions will become part of the public record and, as such, will be subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. For further information in respect to Bylaw 6-2025 or to make representation regarding the bylaw please contact:
Ashton
Diana Ashton and Heather Paziuk are getting the party ready. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
L-R: Jim Bragg, Lisa Topilko, and Janet Rowlands. (Rosanne Fortier/ Photo)
ATB Donates - CONTINUED from PAGE 5
gift
The BIG cheque. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Elegant Christmas Tea
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Heritage House’s Christmas Tea Fundraiser and Vendor Sale was presented on November 28.
There were seasonal decorations, and tasty cake, and tea. Residents and guests wore
Heritage House’s Resident and Family Council President Judy Kuffert shared that they had a great turnout for people. “We host this event for fundraising for music and recreational activities for the residents. These funds will be used for music entertain-
ment, bingo, games, and special treats for the residents to enjoy. I am grateful to everyone for attending the tea and for all the donations. This is greatly appreciated.”
Enjoying tea, cake, and pleasant company. (Rosanne Fortier/ Photo)
Bob Burke News Advertiser
Vegreville hosted the 2nd place Lloydminster Bandits Saturday night at the Wally Fedun Arena. Vegreville came out with a strong effort but couldn’t solve Bandits starter Shae Stewart who posted a 37 save shutout.
Vegreville killed off an early power play before Callum Stewart was assessed a two minute hitting from behind penalty which comes with automatic 10 minute and game misconducts. It would have been a routine hit but the Lloydminster player turned his back to Stewart just before he made contact. Vegreville was able to kill the penalty off but Stewart’s big body would be missed.
by Stewart once again.
Lloydminster’s Cash Parkin made it 3-0 as he was left all alone in the slot and beat Warawa with a laser just inside the post. Brody VanEngelen again set up Kaylum Roberts on a power play effort but it slid just wide of the Bandit net. With just under two minutes to play in the second, Jayden Plamondon made it 4-0 with a beautiful shot in off the crossbar that Warawa had no chance on. Vegreville outshot Lloydminster 20-12 in the second and deserved a better outcome.
Lloydminster opened the scoring 12:51 into the first when Maddux Woodbury took a beautiful feed from Zachary Varty on a 2 on 1 and deposited it into the net. That was the only goal of the first period with Vegreville starter Riley Warawa making several big saves to keep it a one goal game. Lloydminster outshot Vegreville 17-10 in the opening frame.
Lloydminster’s Tyson Ziegler scored just over a minute into the second period on a nice deke just past the outstretched pad of Warawa. Vegreville seemed to find their rhythm and pushed back hard but couldn’t seem to find the back of the net. Noah DeSmet had a glorious opportunity on a nice tip that slid just wide of the net.
Kaylum Roberts was absolutely robbed on a onetimer that was labelled for the short side by a highlight reel glove save from Shae Stewart who came all the way across the net from his right to left keeping Vegreville off the board. Cooper Saville had a chance close-in as a Bandits penalty expired but was stymied by a Stewart pad save. Brody VanEngelen set up Kaylum Roberts for a chance but was stopped
Vegreville started the third on a shortened power play and thought they had solved Stewart 29 seconds in but a quick whistle resulted in the goal being waved off. Before the penalty expired Warawa made an excellent blocker save on a shorthanded chance for Lloydminster. Lloydminster made it 5-0 when the puck took an odd bounce off the side boards right to Cayden Wildeman who’s shot just trickled through Warawa’s pads. Lloydminster’s Colton Parker made it 6-0 when Kade Dennet missed on the short side and the puck came hard off the backboards right onto his stick and he deposited it into the net before Warawa had any chance to get across. Adryan Bugiera made it 7-0 on a slick three-way passing play from Maddux Woodbury and Tyson Ziegler. Kaylum Roberts was robbed by Shae Stewart yet again after a one-timer off a pass from Ashton Butz was swallowed up by the Bandits starter. Lloydminster finished the scoring on a second straight goal from Adryan Bugiera with assists to Kade Dennett and Tyson Zielgler for an 8-0 final.
The score was not indicative of the play as Vegreville played hard and skated with Lloydminster for most of the game. In spite of the lopsided score Riley Warawa played well and finished with 42 saves. Final shots on goal were 50-37 in favour of the visiting Bandits who outshot the home side 20-8 in the final frame.
Tributes
KULY, Orest
In loving memory of Orest Kuly
January 26, 1933 - December 3, 2022
As long as we have memories yesterday remains.
As long as we have hope tomorrow waits.
No longer in our life to share
In our hearts you are always there.
In loving memory of Rick Ostashek
February 2, 1967 - December 8, 2024
- One Year Since You Left -
I thought of you with love today,
But that is nothing new.
I thought about you yesterday, And days before that too.
I think of you in silence, I often speak your name.
All I have is memories,
And your picture in a frame.
Your memory is a keepsake,
With which I’ll never part.
God has you in his keeping, I have you in my heart.
We miss you and love you mostest, Lill, Tyler and Kate, Cassandra and Nic
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
The Money Matters: Mortgage and Car Loans Made Simple session was offered at Vegreville Centennial Library on November 26.
Life goes on we know it’s true; It’s not the same since we lost you.
Forever loved and deeply missed Emily, Dale, Barry and families
ZUBRESKI, Helen
August 15, 1929 – November 25, 2025
On Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Helen Zubreski of Vegreville, Alberta passed away at the age of 96 years.
Helen is survived by her brother Russel and her two sisters-in-law Beverly and Jackie, along with numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Nestor Zubreski; parents Henry and Annie Makarowski; two sisters Rose (Peter) Gabruck and Marie (Bill) Kowal; four brothers Paul, Peter (Millie), Joe, Billy; and sister-in-law Joyce.
A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. Vladimir with Fr. Slawomir Lomaszkiewicz officiating. Interment to follow in the Riverside Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice. To send condolences please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD.
Vegreville, Alberta 780-603-5800
Financial Tips Made Easy
This was part of the Newcomers Workshop Series, which was designed and implemented by Vegreville Cares Coalition on behalf of the Rural Mental Health Network.
Speaker Lisa DeGara presented the session remotely and explained credit and debt basics.
DeGara said that credit means someone is lending you money. When someone has loaned you money, you are in debt to them. If you add up all the money that you owe, that is your total debt. Money is never loaned for free; you will need to pay back the money plus interest (extra money).
When someone is looking at big purchases like cars or houses, it is important to consider how much debt they have now.
A credit score is an equation that calculates how likely you are to pay back money on time.
“A lot of newcomers to Canada struggle with their credit score, as one of the most important factors to determine this is how long you have had credit for. If you just arrived in Canada, you might have a low credit score as you have zero years of credit age. People can get a secure credit card, which means they pay the bank around $250 or $300 to have access to a credit card. That credit card is secure, and it helps you build credit and lengthen your credit score.
Some of the other things that are really important for a credit score are if you pay on time, as this will make it go up, and if you are late or miss a payment, it will go down. It is better not to ask for a lot of credit.
Another one is how much you have versus how much you
use. If you have $5,000 credit card and you use zero dollars, which is not actually very good because they don’t learn about how trustworthy you are, as it is just sitting there. Or if you have a $5,000 credit card and you use $5,000 credit, it is also not very good, as that makes them worry that you are spending as much as you have. Credit card companies usually expect you to use about 33% of your credit.”
DeGara stated the longer the term of the loan, the more money you will pay in interest, and the shorter the loan, the less you will pay.
In Canada, all debts have an Annual Percentage Rate, which they have written in the credit statement.
DeGara recommended not doing a car lease, which is where you pay so much to use the car, but you don’t own it.
DeGara advised to follow the 20-4-10 rule, which means to buy a car, you should have 20% of the price put down, finance it for four years, and keep vehicle costs under 10% of your income.
With mortgages, you need a certain amount for a down payment.
They have the stress test to find out if the mortgage rates go up, will you be able to afford the mortgage?
Mortgage loan insurance is the law if you pay less than 20% for a down payment.
Even with a mortgage, a person is still responsible for paying for water, heat, electricity, and property taxes, which is above the cost of the mortgage.
DeGara closed by sharing that you also have to pay to fix the house, if needed.
KOTYK, Peter Nick May 15, 1933 – November 19, 2025
It is with deep sadness that the family of Peter Kotyk of St. Michael, AB announce his passing. Our beloved Father/Geedo passed away peacefully the morning of November 19th.
Left to cherish his memory are one son, three daughters and four grandchildren: Gordon; Terrylynn (Mervin) Fedoretz and their son, Blayne; Crystal (friend Eugene), her children, Kyle and Karissa; Bonnie and her son, Eric; sister-in-law, Violet Buksa; brother-in-law, Chris (Gale) Pelechytik; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
Peter is reunited with his beloved wife, Sylvia, who predeceased him on September 25, 2025; parents, Nick and Teresa (née Prokopczak); brothers, Johnny (in infancy), Michael (Katie) and Paul (Anne); sisters, Nancy (Bill), Helen (George), Rose (Vern) and Lucille (Larry); nephews, Gerald, Michael Jr., Orville, Richard, Robert, Larry; nieces, Shirley, Virginia, Doreen and Patsy; brother-in-law, Steve Buksa and nephew, Shane Buksa.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Park Memorial, 9709 –111 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB. A Funeral Service will be held Friday, December 5, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Holy Transfiguration Russo Orthodox Church, Star, AB (192002 TWP 564 - intersection of RR 192 and TWP 564, 2 miles east of HWY 831 on TWP 564 or 2 miles south of HWY 45 RR 192). Interment will follow in the Church Cemetery.
Вічная Пам’ять Vichnaya Pamyiat Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com. Park Memorial Lamont 780-895-2157 Family-Owned Funeral Home And Crematorium
SVEKLA, George M.
It is with profoundly heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, gido, brother, and uncle, George M. Svekla, on November 24, 2025, at the age of 73 years.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of just a few days shy of 50 years, Karen; children, Jason (Jacqueline), René (Martin) and Larissa (Joel); eight grandchildren, Anishia, Shontelle, Evette, Ivy, Rochelle, Ruby, Bodhi and Freyja; his sisters, Barb (Ray), Phyllis, Joyce (Gordie) and Doris (Ted); numerous nieces and nephews; and many others whose lives he touched –including all the children he transported to school over his 47 years of bus driving.
George was predeceased by his parents, Elsie and Metro and brother-in-law, Duane.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Willingdon & District Recreation Centre, 4807 - 51 Avenue, Willingdon, Alberta with Archpriest Dr. Timothy Chrapko officiating. Interment will follow at the Romanian Holy Cross Church Cemetery, Malin.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Romanian Holy Cross Church, Malin. Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com. Park Memorial Vegreville 780-632-2000
Gordon (Gordzilla) Rosypal
April 14, 1968 - November 28, 2020
Love remains in every heart touched, and you have touched many, Gordie. Missing you always.
Love, Karen, Meagan, Caiden, Kian, Cali and Duke
Professionals from L-R: Natasha Reber, Yuliia Kalutska, Jessica Fenner. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Sharing Goodwill and Holiday Spirit to Seniors
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Members of Vegreville town council will be continuing the longstanding tradition of delivering Christmas baskets and oranges in local senior homes this holiday season.
The item was brought up for discussion at the Nov. 10 meeting by Chief Administrative Officer Sandra Ling in a memorandum stating that “council may opt to continue or discontinue
Christmas Basket/Orange Delivery program for this year.”
Mayor MacPhee was the first to comment, stating, “I feel it’s important and I really enjoy it to tell you the truth.” He added that it was a great way to connect with seniors living in St. Anne’s Manor, Heritage House, Lion’s Golden Villa, Parkview Manor, Homestead Lodge and St. Michael’s Manor.
“Your Worship, I agree with you wholeheartedly. It’s nice to see the smile on the resident’s face when they can share time with us,” stated Councillor Jerrold Lemko. He joked that his only concern was the singing Christmas carols.
Councillor Colby Warawa said he didn’t know about singing, but that he would volunteer to pick up some extra shifts to visit the senior homes. “I do think it’s important to keep it going.”
Councillor Taneen Rudyk commented that she loves doing community engagement. “I think this is one of the best uses of time we can make throughout the year. Any time we can take this table out into the community is time well spent, especially for those who can’t make it to our meetings.”
CAO’s Ling noted that the cost of baskets and supplies is between $115 and $200. Deliveries will take place between Dec. 15-19.
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Fun at Breakfast Time
Attendees enjoy a hearty breakfast. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
pancakes, and enjoy playing on the equipment and toys at the Pancake and Play program at Kalyna Family Resource NetworkVegreville and Area on November 29.
Spoke Programmer Cheryl Sorensen said their theme this week was Family Ties, and the children could make a helping
hand wreath with their handprints for the craft project.
Sorensen added that they host this on the weekend for parents who can’t make it to some of their programs during the week. “We give everyone pancakes, do crafts, and have free play. It is a good opportunity for everyone to have breakfast with the kids.”
Imaginary play is so much fun. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Music Studio, and youngsters playing on the bouncy castles, or those young at heart taking in the inflatable games.
In conjunction with this event, Vegreville and District Co-op also hosted the Iconic Seasonal Coca-Cola Holiday Truck, where attendees received treats, and Santa listened to kids’ orders for Christmas presents.
Vegreville’s Tourism Coordinator, Michelle Gladys shared
that the
Writing letters to Santa. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Parade watchers. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Town of Vegreville’s float. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Santa’s littlest elf. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Lillian Koziskie; Olga, Andrea, John Zacharuk; Susan & Allan Kit; June Woloshyn; Daryl & Shelley Sapp; Don, Jenovia, Megan Woloshyn; Craig, Kendra, Moraya, Rhett Woloshyn; Marshall & Elsie Juba; Terence Juba; Peter & Alice Sokoluk; Clara, Douglas, Kevin, Jennifer, Sam, Ben, Ella Nawrot; Carol & Tom Makela; Lawrence & Elaine Svitich; Clinton & Lorraine Ziegler; In Memory of Father Vincent Prychidko; Marvin & Lisa Topilko; Diana K & Marcel H; Denise & Darren Scherger; Garry & Barb Carstairs; In memory of Gary Hawryluk; In memory of Susan Dolly Hawryluk; Dennis & Patricia Anderson; Ernie & Pat Motiuk; Jerry, Kevin, Donna, Braden Eliuk; Donna Kachuk; Marion Baxandall Family; Dave & Millie Giebelhaus; Ms. Margie Tomasharsky; Dale & Gladys Menzak; Betty Lou Hewko; Michael, Samantha & Dunsten; Steve Kereliuk; Kelly & Leath Johnston; Sofia Manro & Nikhil Arora; Michelle Pinon & Family; Amanda Wolf; Jerry & Jeannie Windels; Dan and Albina Beaudette; Arthur Beaudette
bers rise, we encourage clients to visit once per month, and we provide a healthy food hamper along with same-day redeemable coupons to assist with their needs at our local Coop grocery store.”
Mytz said how appreciative they are to the volunteers, which currently number around a dozen. “We are profoundly grateful for the dedication of our volunteers. Their commitment keeps our shelves stocked, ensures donations are picked up and delivered, and supports our shut-in clients. Volunteers also sort food, check expiration dates, and keep the pantry organized; work that is essential to our operations. We are also encouraged by the involvement of youth in our communities, who help haul groceries from the local grocery store and assist during food drives. Their willingness to contribute plays a meaningful role in supporting the Food Bank and the people we serve.”
On average, Mytz said they have between 25 to 30 adults and 8 to 10 children per month who utilize the service.
Little Free Pantry shelves. (Village of Innisfree Public Library/Submitted Photo)