Creative Showcase
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Vegreville Skating Club presented the Island Dreams On Ice Skating Carnival to an audience of 200 at Wally Fedun Arena with grace and skill on March 16. There was plenty of clapping and cheering when this show featured various acts. Skaters performed elegant
spins and used intricate footwork, while the younger ones followed the skating patterns of their instructors well. The choreography was polished and transported the audience’s imagination to a warmer climate.
Young skaters expressed how the year went and how creative showcase - CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
The 2024-25 hockey season is a special one for members of the Vegreville Wranglers U18 team as they won the league championship on home ice Friday, March 14.
For Head Coach Brad Morrow, it was an exciting final series against the St. Paul Canadiens. The Wranglers narrowly defeated the St. Paul Canadiens 1-0 on March 12 in St. Paul before edging them out in the final game by a score of 3-2.
Morrow said the stands were packed at the Wally Fedun Arena Friday, energizing the team throughout the game. “We were tied 2-2 going into the third period. In the last 10 minutes of the game we scored to win it.”
For Morrow, it was a great feeling to win the championship as he had been behind the bench two other times when they had to settle for second place. Winning the championship was no easy feat as the team had to play Cold Lake, Kitscoty and the CR Knights to get to the final series against St. Paul.
Even though the half of the team is comprised of first year players at the U18 level, they adapted well to their roles on the ice and the system they utilize as well as playing up to their potential and beating the teams when it counted. While they played 500 hockey at the beginning of the season they lost only one of 12 games in the second half of the season, peaking at just the right time.
The team’s next challenge will come during the weekend of March 27 when they compete in the Hockey Alberta U18 B Provincials in Drumheller.
Pressure on RCMP Mounting
Two Hills RCMP are facing pressures as they deal with difficult situations, demands and expectations to do more to combat rural crime.
Detachment Commander Sgt. David Henry says calls for service have increased from between 250 to 300 calls per year to between 400 and 500 calls per year. That’s for each RCMP member they have working in the detachment area which encompasses 3,500 square kilometres. “That’s half the size of
Prince Edward Island!”
“I’m up to around 200 calls per year,” stated Henry, whose role and responsibilities should be primarily focused on administrative duties. Besides Sgt. Henry, there is one Corporal and four Constables working at the detachment. Sgt. Henry said they are currently down one member, but are expecting a new recruit by the end of April to join their ranks.
Sgt. Henry said he requested two more members before
Pressure on RCMP mounting - CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
King Charls iii’s coronation medals
Wranglers after league championship win on March 14. (Vegreville & District Minor Hockey
Mundare Ladies Bonspiel
Yup. We’ve been around that long.
In fact, we’ve been serving rural Alberta communities for 75 years. Our credit union launched in 1950 with $128, 21 members and a mission to help our neighbours and our communities. It’s still our mission today. That’s why we return 75% of Vision’s profits to our members, why we provide full-service banking in underserved rural communities, and why we make contributing to charitable causes in our hometowns a priority. Learn how Vision supports our members and our communities. WHAT’S THE STORY IN THIS PHOTO ? FIND OUT HERE:
A Event - Sponsored by Imagine Travel. Won by Courtney Zieger Team.
Kathy Ilkiw-Imagine Travel, Courtney Ziegler, Brittany Erickson, Lydia Pauluk and Cora Mcinnes. Runners Up: Candace Tratch, Cherie Ziegler, Cynthis Baxandall and Nancy Makoweckie. (Mundare Curling Club/Submitted Photo)
B Event - Sponsored by Magnum Masonary. Won by Carmen Tratch team. Candice Kropielnicki - Director, Carmen Tratch, Kate Sanford-Mitchell, Chandel Warshawski and Carla Sanregret.
Runners Up: Maya Franklin, Isabel Flanagan, Tany Chrapko-Charette and Jody Zacharkiw. (Mundare Curling Club/Submitted Photo)
C Event - Sponsored by Liquor Choice. Won by Taryn Soloway team. Candice Kropielnicki-Director- Taryn Soloway, Anita Kuffert, Shonna Blonke and Amanda Malo.
Runners Up: Deanna Jackson, Jordana Saskiw, Amanda Nott and Hannah Musterer. (Mundare Curling Club/Submitted Photo)
90 Years Ago – March 20, 1935
The fund for the Alida Hall is growing rapidly and those responsible for the collections, take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped, by their generosity, to make the hall possible. After a specimen of the Black Widow, the only known poisonous spider in North America, was found in a tomato field at Summerland, British Columbia, other specimens were forwarded to the provincial entomologist from many interior points in the province, including Nelson, Trail, Nakusp and form Enderby, south to the international boundary.
Commencing about 10:00 o’clock on Tuesday night, the first blizzard of the present winter swept over the country, accompanied by a lot of snow which drifted rapidly into all available spots. Roads that were comparatively open heretofore are now plugged up again and will remain so for another week. At about 4:00 p.m. today, March 20, the storm abated and it has turned colder, being 5 below zero at 6:00 p.m. with the prospect of going lower tonight. During the storm, the thermometer stood from 15 to 30 above zero.
75 Years Ago – March 22, 1950
At the regular meeting of the Vegreville Exhibition Association Secretary-Manager T. Casson brought up the matter of tearing out the old bleachers and using plank for flooring in the sheep barn. He further suggested that new portable bleachers be constructed which bleachers could be moved as required to various places on the grounds. This was approved by the directors.
George Warren of Vegreville was elected president of the Alberta Quick-Freeze Locker Association at the sixth annual convention. The local fire brigade was called out at midnight, on March 17th, to assist the village of Lavoy fight a fire. While the post office building was destroyed, a house nearby was saved by a bucket brigade. Results of the election in Division 2, Municipal District of Eagle, gave Wm. Myskiw had a substantial majority over his two opponents. Direct and indirect taxation will cost Canadians about three billion dollars in 1950.
In 1949 Canada’s exports totaled $2,993,000,000, a decline of $82,000,000 from the preceding year.
Alberta’s old age pension will be increased to a maximum of $50 a month, an increase of $2.50, if a proposal contained in Premier Manning’s budget speech receives the assent of the legislature. 50 Years Ago – March 20, 1975
A report was received by the Observer that a petition with about 422 names affixed was presented to the Minburn County Council requesting that the Council hold an annual meeting to discuss the affairs of the county.
Minister of Environment Hon. Bill Yurkow did some mainstreeting for Progressive Conservative candidate John Batiuk in Vegreville last week and was met at the future site of the Environmental Laboratory Research Centre in Vegreville, buy members of the Town Council, Chamber of Commerce, and interested supporters. Everyone present expressed enthusiasm for the major project which will change the complexion of Vegreville within the next several years and Mr. Yurko was obviously pleased with the reception accorded him by the community.
Eleven boys and three adults were invested as Beavers and Beaver leaders at a ceremony held in the Centennial Building. The boys that were invested into the Beaver Colony by Boy Scout Leader Alex Elder were: Kevin Cherney, Darren Bohaychuk, Brent Bohaychuk, Glen Knott, Grant Stewart, Kevin Nawrot, Dean Jamieson, Quinton Russ, Donovan Elder, and Tommy Seniuk. The leaders of the colony are Pat Bohaychuk, Joyce Stewart, and John Pidwerbeski.
People once thought that holding a lion’s ear to a deaf ear would restore hearing.
25 Years Ago – March 21, 2000
Edie Gegolick and Simone Bober were kept busy stirring the sauce pot for the St. Mary’s High School Ski Club spaghetti dinner held Thursday in the basement of St. Martin’s Church.
Neil Seniuk, Krystal Fettes, and Heather Soldan of the Fiddlin’ Kiddlins play an Irish song for the people at Innisfree’s Irish Stew Supper and Pub Night held Saturday. Proceeds from the event will go toward the restoration of the Innisfree Bank of Commerce building, now declared a historic site.
Vegreville Lions donated $200.00 to the Vegreville Midget Girls Volleyball Club last week. Fred Ducket and Shirley LaBrie presented the cheque to Manager Clarisse Corbiere.
It was nearly a clean sweep for the local floor curling teams as they won five out of the six curling events in the annual Vegreville Highway Floor Curling Bonspiel held at the Sunshine Club. First place winners were, Skip Dennis Ursulak, Third Vicky Topechka, Second Rose Rosa, and Lead Ralph Gorrie. Second place was won by Skip Mike Gordey, Third Nellie Ursulak, Second John Garred, and Lead Mary Lukenchuk. Third place was won by Skip John Homeniuk, Third Sophie Dziwenko, Second Mary Bodnaruk, and Lead Ed Poloyko.
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.
What About the CBC?
Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser – Opinion
As we inch closer to an election, there will be a number of topics parties on either side will be presenting to attempt to sway your vote. One topic that has been at the top of many lists in recent years is the CBC. Proponents of the CBC argue that is a necessary tool to inform citizens and battle disinformation. Detractors see it as a money pit that is a drain on the pocketbooks of Canadians.
From a functional standpoint, there is nothing special about the CBC. There is even a project dedicated to monitoring state media across the world, aptly named “State Media Monitor.” For a comparison with Canada’s CBC being listed as our one and only outlet of state media, we can look at a few others. I will not list populations for the sake of space, but I think it is a valid number to keep in mind.
In the United States, there are three listings. First, US Agency for Global Media (USAGM) which I had not heard of, The Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) which is so common, I thought it could have been Canadian, and National Public Radio (NPR) which I have heard of and listened to.
The United Kingdon has three state funded outlets as well; Australia has two and Germany has three. Now for entertainment’s sake, take a guess how many Russia and China have. Russia has 14 including TASS with a global presence and 140 offices across Russia and RT which is also operating around the world including in Europe and Canada. If you want to find Russian propaganda and disinformation just watch anything coming out of RT. China for their part has 18 outlets including those focused on western countries such as the United States and New Zealand.
While Germany has a little more than double our population, I will use it for comparison because the numbers are in front of me, and they are very open about how they fund their state media. Make no mistake, in most cases where there is a true democracy there are questions as to why there should be funding or at least how much.
One of Germany’s outlets is ARD which consists of regional networks with many television and radio stations. Much like the CBC’s “The National” ARD also has nation wide program along with cultural programming, children’s programming, and some programs available in multiple languages. State funding is quite structured with every household in Germany paying a monthly license fee for public media amounting to around $28.75 CAN. ARD also has guardrails in place for editorial independence and production contracts. I’m not sure how the math works or where the rest of the money goes, but it appears that the official budget for ARD in the most recent (2023) numbers I could find was $11.35 bn or $86.27 per capita. They state that the budget is 85 percent funded by the prior mentioned license fee.
CBC is structured similarly with regards to how it is built and the programming. Where they fall off is the editorial independence and spending guardrails. The 12-member board of directors, including the chairperson and CEO are appointed by the Governor General of Canada on advice from the Prime Minister. If you don’t see the problem with that connection, then now is the time to start asking questions. On paper, having
Inspiration for Best-Selling Children’s
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Faith Dana Swedgan is the best-selling local author and illustrator of “Pinch Pinch Pinch: Making Perogies with Baba”. Faith grew up in Vegreville before moving to Edmonton to pursue post secondary education. There, she earned an arts degree in music and drama and a degree in education.
The inspiration behind this book came from a deep desire to honor her Ukrainian heritage. Faith expressed, “I was lucky enough to spend many days with my great grandparents where they shared stories as we prepared traditional dishes. The knowledge they shared has been passed down through generations. Creating this book, and my future books, is a way to make their memory eternal.”
Anniversary Pysanka Festival. All profits from this event were donated to Ukrainian Patriots to aid in the lifesaving efforts in Ukraine.
The following year, on her birthday, she decided to visit Chapters in Edmonton and pitched the idea of having her book featured in their local authors’ section. To her delight, they were excited to have it on their shelves.
Faith explained the plot: “My book is a simple rhyming story where if you follow along you learn how to make perogies. The main question I’m asked is “Where is the recipe?” well Baba didn’t use a recipe. I wanted the book to be engaging for very young readers while also being relatable to all ages.”
Faith initially started finding success selling her book at Vegreville’s 50th
“Six months later, while I was shopping, I ran into the manager, and she shared the amazing news with me. My books have become incredibly popular, and I’ve quickly risen to become one of their top-selling local authors at that location. It’s been such a rewarding experience to see the response from the community!” Faith exclaimed. Moving forward, Faith plans to release more books where she will not only explore her heritage but also tackle universal themes of kindness and joy. “I am delighted to share that my next book will be about pickles, so stay tuned! It will be available soon. And if you’re attending this year’s Pysanka Festival, I’ll be at a booth signing cop-
ies of both books.
Chapters has been an amazing experience but I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge Baba’s Bistro in Mundare. At their location alone they have sold well over 100 copies. They continue to support me and various other local artists and authors.
Currently, my books are available at various locations in and around Edmonton. Additionally, it can be found locally at Vegreville Drug Mart,” Faith said.
Faith closed by saying she is grateful to everyone who has supported her through this amazing experience!
PUT YOUR MONEY
Faith Dana Swedgan holds up her book. (Faith Dana Swedgan/ Submitted Photo)
they enjoyed performing. Mary Yakimetz said it was fun to practice during the season because she learned a lot and was able to be with her friends. “At the carnival, I got to show what I could do and what I worked hard for.”
Avery O’Mara expressed that it was fun to learn new skating skills, especially at the beginning of the year when
they didn’t know much. But they started to progress fast. “Our skating instructors were all nice. The carnival was fun, especially at the end when we got to skate with everyone.”
Hayden O’Mara said it was fun to practice skating with the group during the year. “The instructors were kind. My favorite part of the carnival was being the waves and pirates, as well as, skating with everyone at the end.”
President of this organization, Di-Anna Michaud,
explained that the age range for skaters in the club this year is three years to 16 years old.
“We had 71 skaters registered and 59 skaters that participated in the carnival. Everyone in the club is welcome and encouraged to participate, but some have other commitments and cannot make it…The yearend carnival is a chance for the skaters to showcase all of the skills they have been working on for the season to their family, friends, and general public.”
VMSA Embraced Changes this Past Year
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Vegreville Minor Soccer Association had a busy year with a couple of positive changes, which helps young people’s skills grow in soccer.
Director of Registrations/Communications Shelley Berry announced that for the 2024 Outdoor Season, they had 280 players and 47 on their coaching staff. For the Indoor Season, they had 79 players and 16 people on their coaching staff. Online registration opened on March 1 for the 2025 Outdoor Season. “At the end of June, we had the Lakeland Cup held at Cold Lake and Vegreville, U17 Boys United won the Bronze in Cold Lake, Vegreville U15 Girls won the Gold, Vegreville U19 Girls won Silver, and Vegreville U15 Boys won Bronze at the Lakeland Cup in Vegreville. All attended Provincials at St. Paul, along with the Vegreville U19 Boys, who won Gold, and the Vegreville U15 Girls brought home Silver.
These were some of the statements announced at this organization’s
annual general meeting on March 5 at Vegreville Legion Hall.
President Allan Bohrson reported that the highlights this past year were that they held their First Annual threeday Revolution Soccer Camp. They had 32 kids registered for the July 9-11 camp. Revolution Soccer provided three qualified and skilled soccer coaches for the event. “Although the camp was held during the extreme heat wave last July, the camp was well received and enjoyed by all. This year’s Camp will be in the second week. In addition to the Revolution Soccer Camp, the 2025 Outdoor Season will include four weekly in-season training sessions for U5, U7, U9, and U11 age groups. This will be one hour per week with Revolution coaches conducting training alongside our regular team coaches, and it will start the third week of May.”
Bohrson went on to say their organization worked with volunteers Emma Myshak and Kaylee Bohrson, to help coordinate a free parent-and-tot soccer group by providing balls and field space for parents to come out and introduce soccer to children under three years of age. “This was a successful pro-
gram for drop-in soccer and will be running again this year.
VMSA hosted the Under 15 and Under 19 Lakeland Cup on June 21 to 23. It was an excellent weekend of soccer. We had applied for and received the Town of Vegreville Recreational Grant of $1500 to help offset the costs of the event. In addition, we also received the annual grant of $300 from the Town of Mundare. 2024 was another busy year for fundraising. In addition to the annual cash raffle, we also returned to the Vegreville Fair to run the Synergy Beer Gardens. The Calahoo Meat fundraiser was held in late fall. 2025 fundraising will include our second Casino dates, September 10 and 11, in Camrose.
Check out the video on Vegreville Soccer Website. In Spring of 2024, our organization donated a large number of used jerseys, balls, and equipment to the Gelerang Kawayan Football Club in Batangas, Philippines,” Bohrson said.
During the meeting, Jenny Tozer was appointed as the Director of Equipment. They are still searching for a Vice-President, Director of Field Maintenance, and Technical Director.
VMSA Executive Board from L-R: Director of Youth Teams Juan Hernandez, Director of Equipment Jenny Tozer, Director of Officials Daniel Andrews, Director of Mini Teams Ashley Winstanley, President Allan Bohrson, Director of Registrations/Communications Shelley Berry, Treasurer Leanne Chilibecki, Director of Field Operations Ira Borromeo. (Missing from photo is Secretary Wendy Cannan and Director of Coaches Amy Bosse) (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Pre CanSkate Two. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Diana Krugliak. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Joe Warkentin. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Vegreville Welcomes New Library Manager
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
There is a new face sitting in the office of Vegreville Centennial Library. Anayo Ugboma came from Calgary where he began working remotely as Manager on January 20.
Ugboma now lives in Vegreville, which he enjoys as he admits the people are very warm, kind, and friendly. He wanted to pursue a career as a librarian because of his passion for accessing information. “I grew up facing challenges in accessing information, which is why I pursued education in this field.”
Ugboma shared that he regularly spends time online researching articles. He enjoys reading non-fiction books and articles the most. “Biographies are my favorite because they allow me to learn from the experiences of those I admire. They motivate me.”
He started working in libraries with his first role at an academic school in Japan, where he worked for several years, which was followed by volunteering at a Japanese University Library for a few more years. After attending college, he managed several libraries in the province.
On what is special about working at a library, Ugboma expressed it is the people as he saw in the movie called, “The Boy That Harnessed the Wind”, a film about droughts in Africa, where people struggled with food storages. This young boy sought to solve this issue but didn’t know how to access the necessary information. Although he wasn’t a student, he gained access to the school library, found the information he needed, and discovered a way to bring water to his village. As a librarian, the movie highlighted the crucial role libraries play in improving lives.
Ugboma expressed, “I believe that libraries are the jewels of towns and cities, often underappreciated for the direct and indirect value they offer to the communities. They function as the heart of communities, providing a social space for people to come together. As Ugboma puts it, “We offer a welcoming space where people can do all sorts of things, from social gatherings to cooling off or warming up when the weather is too hot or too cold outside.”
Ugboma envisions enhancing the library by better understanding its current connections with other community partners. “Through this initiative, we aim to draw more people to the library.”
Anayo Ugboma. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Sunshine Club Hosts Provincial Floor Curling Bonspiel
Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville Submitted
On Monday, March 3, the Vegreville Senior Citizens Sunshine Club hosted an Alberta Floor Curling Bonspiel with 18 visiting and two local teams. The winning teams were:
First Place – Vegreville: Skip Carlene Wheeler, Third Mary Karbashewski, Second Carolyn Kiist, and Lead Victoria Paranych.
Second Place – Villeneuve: Skip Anngeline Majeau, Third Linda Wickman, Second Lois Dutton and Lead Dorothy Rinas.
Third Place – Tofield: Skip Roger Stutzman, Third Rodney Boida, Second Lana Boida and Lead Lorraine McNeely.
Fourth Place – NW Edmonton (Calder): Skip Stan Androschuk, Third Dianne Andraschuk,
Motion to Expand Availability of Epinephrine Autoinjectors Receives Passage
Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk MLA for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville
This past week, my Motion 518: Expanding Availability of Epinephrine
Autoinjectors was successfully passed in Alberta’s Legislative Assembly. This motion urges the Government to undertake a policy review to expand protections for
Albertans at risk of anaphylaxis due to severe, life-threatening allergic reactions. My goal is to close the current public safety gap by ensuring greater access to epinephrine in high-risk environments through a proactive and practical approach. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues in passing this important motion and remain committed to equipping our communities with the resources needed to respond to critical medical situations.
On March 12, the Minister of Forestry and Parks introduced Bill 41: The Wildlife Amendment Act. This legislation aims to enhance hunting and trapping practices, support the humane management of wildlife, and modernize regulations to align with new technologies. If passed, it will improve accessibility for hunters and trappers, including those with disabilities, by amending the definition of hunting vehicles.
The Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies, in collaboration with the National Museum of the Revolution of Dignity in Kyiv, Ukraine, is currently presenting the exhibit “Destroyed Temple of Ukraine” at the Alberta Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre
For high school students interested in the agricultural industry, Alberta’s Green Certificate Program offers an apprentice-style learning experience with 11 specializations, including beekeeping, cow-calf, poultry, and greenhouse production. Students can register yearround with no application deadlines Additionally, the Alberta Government continues to support local communities through the Community Initiatives Program (CIP) – ProjectBased Grant. This funding assists non-profit organizations with new or existing programs, community events, technology initiatives, and more.
Second Linda Frank and Lead Carol Richert. Marlene Kryklywicz presented all of the awards on behalf of the Sunshine Club.
First place team from Vegreville. (Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville/Submitted Photo)
Third place team from Tofield. (Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville/Submitted Photo)
Second place team from Villeneuve. (Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville/Submitted Photo)
Fourth place team from NW Edmonton. (Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville/Submitted Photo)
Precious Metals Recycling Roadshow
Coming To
Vegreville
Precious Metals Recycling Roadshow coming to Vegreville
Terry Burrill is a precious metals buyer and President of TC Precious Metals headquartered in Airdrie, Alberta, and takes this show out to western Canada. TC Precious Metals will be in Vegreville making its way through Western Canada. You can bring your gold, silver, coins and Canadian paper money to the Vegreville Legion between 10am and 5pm each day. No appointment is required.
“TC Precious Metals has the unique advantage of dealing direct with a smelter” says Burrill. “This allows us to cut out one or even two middlemen. TC Precious Metals purchases gold and silver from other gold buyers, pawn shops, dentists, jewellers and jewellery makers as well as from the general public.” Gold is reaching record high prices and silver remains very strong.
TC Precious Metals analyzes your gold, silver, coins and paper money while you watch, with the process explained to you in detail. Coins with numismatic (collectable) value are set aside from those with a 'melt' value. Silver items such as jewelry and flatware are analyzed for hallmark identification. Items thought to contain gold will also be analyzed for hallmarks, and then confirmed using precise testing that is done while you watch. Then a cash offer is made,
and you decide to sell or not.
“If you decide to sell after hearing the quote, great, but it's also about information” says Burrill. “A lot of times people just need to know a ballpark price of what items are worth. There is no obligation and we don't pressure anyone into selling.” This is what sets us apart from the Quebec buyers, and their claim to pay the highest prices
“Nearly half of the world's annual gold harvest comes from recycled gold. Energy costs area about $500 to mine a new once of gold where recycled gold is about $10 per ounce.” A result of this is gold and silver purchased at the shows and later melted goes back into the market with a lower environmental impact.
Out of fashion jewelry, single earrings, broken chains, unloved jewelry, charm bracelets, dental gold, nuggets and fine gold are all accepted.
Sterling silver flatware sets. Another valuable item is coin with silver content. Dimes, Quarters, Half Dollars and Dollars from Canada and America can be sorted and the silver content determined in no time at all. People are encouraged to bring in any and all coins for assessment.
TC Precious Metals can assess and purchase Canadian and Dominion of Canada paper money. They have extensive experience working with estate, executors, widows and widowers in a respectful and caring manner. No appointment necessary.
March 24 and
March 25
Lakeland MP Awards King Charles III’s Coronation Medal to 19 Recipients
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Lakeland MP Shannon Stubbs’ hosted a special medal presentation at the St. Paul Legion on March 8.
Recipients of the King Charles III’s Coronation Medal were recognized because of their significant contributions to the country, a province, territory, region or community; or made an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.
Stubbs addressed the crowd, stating in part: As your Member of Parliament for Lakeland, I have been given the opportunity to present these medals on behalf of the government, but for me I
need you to know, I fundamentally believe the purpose of this medal goes far beyond a symbol of a historic coronation event. It is to be awarded as a testament to dedication, duty, and exceptional contribution to our nation and communities.
As you may have seen there are other partner programs that also have to opportunity for medal selection however, as your Member of Parliament, of a riding of over 105,000 people you are each, 1 of only 20 medals I have been given.
I sincerely hope that lets you know how much your community values you and how each of you, in your own way, has played a role in strengthening the fabric of our society.
Whether through service in public life, the armed forces, emergency services, or through outstanding contributions to your communities, you embody the spirit of loyalty, duty, and selflessness that are qualities that are at the very heart of our national identity.”
Two Hills RCMP Detachment Commander Sgt. David Henry was able to attend the ceremony, and stated, “I was so honoured by the nomination and medal. It was absolutely a highlight of my time in the RCMP. For someone to take the time and do that for me is pretty humbling.”
Mannville area resident Jim Storch was “very humbled” to receive the award as well. Stoch is the Exaulted Ruler of the Mannville Elks & Royal Purple Elks, serves with and LCOL W.C. Craig Armoury Historical Society, and volunteers in a variety of different ways in the community. Storch said, “MP Shannon Stubbs was very honoured to host this event in St. Paul at the Legion. 19 Folks from across this constituency received the award and 30,000 from across Canada. MP Stubbs mentioned that we are in a pivotal time in Canada’s history by which we as volunteers are needed more than ever. I look at it as a team effort in everything I do and just having some fun in my community. I’m very grateful for my wife supporting me and the folks that nominated me for this medal.”
Jordan Ruegg, Planning and Development Manager for Smoky Lake County, said, “I am surprised and humbled to receive the King Charles III Coronation Medal recognizing my efforts for the Smoky Lake Region over the last decade. In fact, I have been privileged to work alongside so many passionate individuals who also share a deep dual commitment to recognizing the past and building an even better and vibrant future. I am incredibly grateful to be a part of such a vibrant and supportive group. Congrats to my fellow Lakeland recipients; I hope this re-energizes many of us to continue our progress and collaborations together.”
Andrew area resident Reta Diduck attended the ceremony with her husband David. Initially, Diduck thought she may have received the award because of the volunteer work she currently does, but learned it was based on her involvement with extracurricular activities and involvement with students when she was teaching at Andrew School.
It was a former student who nominated Diduck for the award. She taught at the school from 1986 to 2011. She served as a counsellor and vice principal in 2011. As well, she coached curling, was involved with student council and was a grad advisor. Diduck currently serves as Secretary-Treasurer of the Andrew Lions Club, Director with the St. Michael Ag Society, serves on the Lamont United Church board, Lamont County Library Board, and with the Andrew-Willingdon-St. Michael Rural Crime Watch Association.
She added that receiving the medal was “mind blowing” as you, “Do what you need to do and don’t realize the impact of what you did until something like this.”
Recipients after medal ceremony. (Lakeland Constituency Office/Submitted Photo)
Healthy Soil Crucial for Producers
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Healthy soil is crucial for producers because it supports crop growth, provides essential nutrients, improves water retention and enhances resilience to environmental stressors. Ultimately, these factors lead to increased yields and more sustainable agriculture now and in the future.
Finding the right balance is the key to success, and experts provide valuable knowledge and data to assist farmers. On March 11, representatives from NorStar Agriculture hosted an information session at Crave Appetite to engage local producers and let them know what products and services they have to offer.
According to information supplied by NorStar Agriculture, “The products we carry we can help with a myriad of soil issues such as pH, salinity, deficiencies, and toxicity. Over the last eight years we have expanded our reach and became a dealer of Omex Canada to give our team of traveling sales agronomists the support they need to meet farmers, set up soil testing, and review the results to create a plan that is beneficial for both the farm and the farmer.”
Courtney Mueller made a power point presentation to attendees following lunch. She spoke about the benefits of Norcal, application of the product, application rates, etc. Nor-Cal originates from cement kiln dust and contains calcium, silicon, magnesium, sulfur, phosphorus and small amount of boron, zinc, manganese,
copper, and iron. Its high calcium content is found to be low in most agriculture soils in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Mueller said it enhances microbial communities, enhances nutrient use and efficiency, resulting in reduced fertilizer wasted and increased crop yield as well as reduction of risks of certain diseases such as Clubroot and Aphanomyces.
Nor-Gyp sourced from drywall manufacturers, reclaims sodic soil in addition to enhancing soil aggregation, structure aeration and water infiltration to reduce erosion loss of soils and nutrient concentration. It is rich in Sulphur and calcium to improve soil health and fertility.
Nor-Hum can be used during stressful condition such as drought, in the fall before dormancy or during the season. Humic acids are complex mixtures of organic compound produced by the soil fungi from decomposed organic matter which are essential to soil health and plant growth. “It can be sprayed or applied in furrow,” noted Mueller.
She included data from trail plots at the University of Alberta as well as a Vermilion area trail.
As well, NorStar Agriculture has partnered with Crop Aid Nutrition out of Rosetown, Sk. The company specializes in soil management and crop production products as well.
Chad Andrukow with Camrose based company Point Forward Solutions also provided information for producers. Andrukow said he has been involved with precision agriculture for the past 15 years. He said precision agriculture is a strategic, targeted approach to farming and analyzing things like: soil type, elevation and typography, PH levels, organic matter, drainage, seed varieties, plant population, no-till vs. tillage, crop rotation, insect, and weed pressure.
He pointed out that the goal is to provide an agronomic based plan to guide the rate and application of fertilizer, seed and crop protection products. Using several layers of
Spring Lube Lube
available data, we develop a strategic plan that optimizes crop input usage and maximizes profitability. Data layers include: electrical conductivity, topography mapping, zone soil testing, yield data, and satellite and UAV imagery.
In a time when profit margins are becoming tighter and tighter, the better equipped producers are to make agronomic decisions the more economic success they will find and in turn become more sustainable.
S
AAC Brandon - Improved FHB resistance, most widely grown CWRS variety in Western Canada for 5 years
AAC Wheatland VB - Wheat midge tolerant very good lodging resistance
CWSWS S Wheat
AC Andrew - In demand for both milling and feed industry, great silage option
219-16 - Shorter height and improved yield over CDC Snowdrop, smaller seed size than Snowbird
Product application. (NorStar Agriculture/Submitted Photo)
LESOWAY, Mike J.
September 13, 1925 - March 23, 2011
To my Wonderful Dad
A golden heart stopped beating,
Hard working hands at rest, It broke our hearts to see you go,
God only takes the best.
They say that memories are golden,
Well maybe that is true,
But we never wanted memories,
We only wanted you.
Your life was love and labour,
Your love for your family true,
You did your best for all of us,
We will always remember you.
We sat beside your bedside,
Our hearts were crushed and sore.
We did our duty to the end,
‘Til we could do no more.
In tears we watched you sinking,
We watched you fade away,
And though our hearts were breaking,
We knew you could not stay.
Our lips cannot speak how we loved you,
Our hearts cannot tell what to say,
But God only knows how we miss you,
In our home that is lonely today.
I love you to moon and back.
Love you and miss you.
Love Debbie xoxo
STAFFORD, Alfred (Al) May 5, 1936 - March 19, 2017
His helping hand was always first To render any aid he could. His voice was always raised in praise, His words were wise and good.
Dear Father, since you’ve gone away, The ones you loved so true Try hard to carry on the way We know you’d want us to. Miss you Dad and always will For though you’re gone we love you still. Forever loved and deeply missed: Lori Dea and Darcy, Lorne and Lori, Todd and Mayumi and Families
CHARUK, William Michael October 13, 1938 – March 11, 2025
It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William Michael Charuk of Vegreville, Alberta leaving us at the age of 86, on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
William (Bill) was born on October 13, 1938, in Vegreville, Alberta. He is survived by his wife of 59 1/2 years Joan; his children Tim (Lu) Charuk, Tammy (Dave) Iwanyshyn, Mitchell Charuk, Melanie Charuk and Debbie (Ed) Badach; grandchildren Nicole (Fred), Colin, Alyssa (Jake), Stephanie and Kasey; sister Alice (Peter) Sokoluk; and brother Bob Charuk. He was predeceased by his parents, Michael and Katherine Charuk; sister Julie (Frank) Chorney; nieces Barbara Miller and Linda Rollands.
Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life for Bill will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the “Covenant Health Foundation –Mary Immaculate Care Centre – Mundare, Alberta.” -Memory EternalВічная Пам’ять To send condolences please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, Alberta 780-603-5800
REYNOLDS, Dwayne Harvey
July 21, 1955 - March 10, 2025
On March 10, 2025, Dwayne Harvey Reynolds of Two Hills, Alberta, passed away at the age of 69 years. He will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Judy Reynolds; sons, Jason & Joseph; daughters, Jessie & Bonnie; mother, Betty; brother, Eldon (Josephine); 4 beautiful grandchildren as well as numerous family & friends. Dwayne is predeceased by his father, Harvey; & sister, Leona Reynolds-Zayak.
Gone but not forgotten, you will live on in our hearts!
Cecile, Stephania (Paul)
(Mike) Bodnar, Lena (Arsene) Skakun, and Marlene Olmstead.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Two Hills, Alberta with Fr. Peter Haugen officiating. Interment to follow in the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church Cemetery – Mamaestie. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the “Two Hills Health Care Centre Foundation – in support of long term care c/o 4401-53 Ave.,Box 160, Two Hills,
BABIUK, Annie
Myrnam & District Firefighters Association Fundraising Raffle
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Response to the Myrnam & District Firefighters Association (MDFA) was so favourable, that the official draw was held much earlier than expected. MDFA President Dennis Maksymiuk said they were originally going to how the raffle in April, but overwhelming community support pushed the date draw up to Feb. 28. Three prizes were awarded in the
raffle, with the grand prize 2024 Polaris Sportsman 850 ATV, supplied by Xtreme Equipment in St. Paul, going to Carrie Stark. Second prize of a New Holland 3600 Inverter Generator, donated by Webb’s Machinery Ltd. Vegreville, was awarded to Andre St. Arnault. Third prize of $250 cash, donated by MDFA, went to Paul Mandryk. Proceeds from the raffle, approximately $6,500 will go towards the upgrading of equipment for the fire department, added Maksymiuk.
Firefighters and sponsors.
(Myrnam & District Firefighters Association/Submitted Photo)
Mundare School Not Expanding to Grade 9
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
While there were reports circulating around the community that Mundare School would be re-introducing Grade 9 in the 2025-26 school year; that will not be the case.
Karen Baranec, Communications Networking Specialist with Elk Island Public Schools, stated that: “Too few students registered for the Grade 9 program. As such, Mundare School will not offer Grade 9 programming in the fall—instead it will continue offering Kindergarten to Grade 8 for 2025-26.” Baranec did point out that, “In the future, if families express interest in the school expanding to Grade 9 and if numbers warrant, EIPS will offer K-9 programming at Mundare School.”
Before the returning student registration process, the school sent out information to all Mundare School families letting them know about the possible change—noting the final determination about Grade 9 programming would depend on school enrolment numbers.
The letter, dated Feb. 7, was sent to parents by Principal Melissa Kerr. She stated in the letter, I’m excited to share some great news about our school that will help guide your decisions during EIPS’ returning student registration process, taking place from Feb. 10-24, 2025.
Cathy Allan, Chair of the Board of Trustees, explained that, “EIPS wanted to provide students the opportunity to complete elementary and junior high in the local community, gaining an additional year of learning, relationship building, leadership and growth before moving on to senior high.”
Starting in the 2025-26 school year, Mundare School is planning to expand to include Grade 9, shifting our grade configuration to kindergarten through Grade9…The final determination about Grade 9 programming for the 2025-26 school year will depend on school enrolment numbers. It’s important we hear from all families during the returning student registration process on what your plans are for next year to assist the Division in making this final determination.”
Having a Blast Outdoors
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Sounds of joy could be heard throughout the Winter Carnival at St. Martin’s Catholic School on February 28, in which students from Kindergarten to Grade Six participated.
Teachers Kaylee Bohrson and Ashley Yaremcio coordinated this event and said that each year, the school organizes this carnival for Kindergarten to Grade Three, but this year, they decided to host
it for the entire school.
On why they organized this event, Kaylee Bohrson wanted to share the excitement of attending this carnival when she was a young student at St. Martin’s School.
The activities offered this year were: Tug of War, Egg and Spoon Relay race, snowshoeing, sledding, and an Indigenous game. “We were very fortunate to have the Vegreville Fire department and the Vegreville Emergency Services bring both a firetruck and an ambulance for the students to tour and ask questions. Each student was also treated to a cup of hot chocolate and Oreo cookies!
Overall, the event was phenomenal! We had great weather and a great turnout for parent volunteers, and the students were excited and cheerful throughout the entire event,” Bohrson said.
Ashley Yaremcio and Kaylee Bohrson would like to express their gratitude to everyone who made this day possible!
Name: Kimberly Stefiuk
Mundare School. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Students explore Vegreville Fire Department’s fire truck. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
the Governor General make the appointments ensures the government does not have room to pressure the broadcaster; however, we live in the real world. On the funding front, the CBC operates with an estimated $1.38 billion or by the Government of Canada website $33.66 per capita or $2.81/person/month.
When you look at the disinformation angle, having a state broadcaster with Canada’s interests in mind is a good thing. Our one broadcaster has to compete with multiple media sources from other countries known to interfere with our elections and spread disinformation. Is it worth $33.66/year? I would argue yes. That’s less than some people spend on coffee, smoke or booze in a week.
However, I do think their model needs to change. First of all, having a taxpayer funded broadcaster compete with private companies for advertising is hard for me to accept. There are a number of industries whereby direct funding or via grants that this happens and it stifles small business
growth and competition. Secondly, is executive compensation. In 2023, records obtained by the Canadian Taxpayer Federation show the CBC’s seven senior executives took home $3,793,000 in total compensation – an average of more than $540,000 per seat. Additionally, most positions at the CBC are paid more than their private counterparts who also do not enjoy the same bonuses or pensions.
CBC funding is well below the average funding of the G7 countries, which is $62.20 per capita. While state media has been around for a long time; some around the century mark, the world has changed. That may mean the CBC has to change along with its governance and revenue model.
When election time comes there will be calls from one side to increase funding to the CBC and to abolish it from the other. We must be careful what we get from
Donation to Support Kids
On March 3, Canadian Royal Purple Lodge No. 125 members donated $1,500 to the Vegreville Preschool Association.
Preschool Treasurer Kristine Gabrysh exclaimed that it is amazing to receive the donation, and that it will cover the cost of a new sandbox with a shelter, a roof for sunshade, and a lid so it doesn’t blow away, as well as repairs around the area on the ground of the sandbox. They will also buy new sand toys. “So it will be protective for hopefully years to come.”
Royal Purple President Shirley Rattray explained that they wanted to help this organization get a sandbox so kids can develop through play experiences during their early childhood education.
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Royal Purple Ladies, wearing purple blazers, present a cheque of $1,500 on behalf of this service club to the Preschool. People from L-R: Shirley Rattray, Marion Baxandall, Rose Hook, Kristine Gabrysch, Marion Lemiski, Nora Paquette, Clara Nawrot, Janet Kolylnyk. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
either; and as usual, a middle ground is likely best. Recent news out of the U.S. has shown us the type of damage radical
what about the CBC? - CONTINUED from PAGE 4
Pressure on RCMP mounting - CONTINUED from PAGE 2
Christmas and that the request will be reviewed following the budget that is passed in April, which is the beginning of a new
fiscal year. As well, Sgt. Henry said there isn’t sufficient space for staff to work or enough cells to hold people who have been apprehended on charges. He has also requested a new detachment, with two or three cells and larger space for police officers as well as administrative staff to do their work.
The detachment only has one cell, and if more than one person is in custody, Sgt. Henry said they must transport them to either Vegreville or St. Paul, which ties up a significant amount of resources.
Sgt. Henry said he had previously been in discussions with Vegreville RCMP Staff Sgt. Colin Folk. The proposal was to amalgamate the Two Hills detachment with the Vegreville detachment. “There was a proposal to amalgamate the detach-
ment, but with our area and landscape it is not feasible at this time.”
Sgt. Folk believes in order to be sustainable, RCMP have to move away from on call policing to 24 hour policing. That was one of the things he discussed during a recent Town Hall meeting. Sgt. Folk said policing is very competitive, with smaller numbers of police officers vying for positions with both municipal police forces and the RCMP. He noted that most officers don’t want to go to rural Alberta as there are more demands on their time, the fact that they are required to live in the communities they serve, and the strong desire for officers to live and work in urban areas surrounding Edmonton
such as Strathcona County, Sturgeon County, St. Albert, and Fort Saskatchewan.
The Vegreville RCMP detachment has been severely understaffed over the past three years or so, and Sgt. Folk said it has posed a tremendous challenge for members; but to their credit, they are apprehending a large number of criminals given their limited resources.
Also, stretching their resources are the number of mental health calls, which make up about 25 percent of their call volume. Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee has stated on several different occasions that the Province’s regional mental health teams are not that effective because there is too large a geographical area for them to adequately cover, especially if they are short staffed which has been the case recently. MacPhee said efforts were being made to have a Vegreville team put in place, but challenges have made that option not feasible at this time.
Another challenge is the ‘catch and release’ justice system that is “very discouraging” for police officers who apprehend and charge them, only for the criminals to be cut loose and put back on the streets to re-offend, added MacPhee. He encouraged attendees at the town hall meeting to bring their questions and concerns forward to provincial and federal officials to advocate for changes.
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Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
