WHAT’S INSIDE
Unbreakable Ukraine Picture Show on Display in Chipman
The Unbreakable Ukraine Picture Show, in support of Firefight Aid Ukraine was on display at the Chipman National Hall on May 24.
Firefighter Aid Ukraine (FFAU) volunteer Hawkins Choi was on hand with four other volunteers. On display was the work of Ukrainian photographer Vyacheslav Khabaylo. Around 60 photographs displayed on canvas illustrated some of the devastating aftermath of the conflict.
Choi said he saw a Firefighter Aid Ukraine booth in Kingsway Mall two years ago. “I so admired what they were doing and wanted to do something to help out. The organization collects unneeded and unwanted firefighter bunker/turnout gear, personal protective equipment, life rescue equipment and medical supplies from fire departments and vendors in Canada and sends donations to Ukraine.
According to the FFAU website, “FFAU aims to raise the necessary funds to send these goods to first responders in various locations of Ukraine who are in desperate need of equipment and supplies required to fulfill their duties to serve and protect citizens, while ensuring one’s own safety.”
Former Premier Ed Stelmach spoke on some of the work that various charitable organizations he’s involved in have done and continue to do to assist the people of Ukraine. “We don’t know what the final outcome will be, but we do know that after the war there will be years and years of rebuild.”
yard that requires attention; Pat was one that never looked at the watch if it meant working longer into the evening. Also, she undertook responsibility of the water commission and upgraded her skills and carried a very good reputation in the county and was always honest and straight forward in her work with elected officials; and let’s face it, there’s a number of elected officials here,” stated Stelmach.
Lamont County Reeve David Diduck stated, “Before I start to congratulate Pat I wanted to reflect a little bit on the Ukraine war. I remember the evening the war started. I was at the Alberta Legislature with Premier Kenney, MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, UCC-APC President Orysia Boychuk and there were several ministers and Counsel General Danylenko. And the reason of that meeting anticipation the war would start, but we didn’t know it would start that day. Before I got home from the Legislature the war was ongoing. I think Mr. Putin thought that the war would be very short-
project to work on Range Road 185. Construction expected later this fall. Chipman has always been a great community to collaborate with. So, Pat congratulations on 40 years of service and hope best in what choose to do in future.”
Bruderheim Mayor Karl Hauch and Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee also said a few words on behalf of their municipalities. Hauch said, “Kudos to Pat for 40 years as CAO and 30 Years with the Water Commission. There’s nobody as sharp as this lady and we give her all the credit.”
MacPhee said he met Pat 12 years ago, and he’s sat as a representative on the water commission for the past 10 years. “I don’t know how to describe Pat. I’ve been in business my whole life, trying to make payroll at the end of every month. I’ve seen people that are organized, and I’ve seen dedicated employees and I’ve seen very intelligent employees; and Pat is all of them. She is the most professional person that I’ve dealt with in politics.”
Village of Chipman Trudy Smith told attendees, “This is not just a celebration for Firefighter Aid Ukraine, but also a small celebration for your (Pat Tomkow) 40 years as CAO.” Smith, who organized the event, then asked Stelmach to say a few words about Tomkow.
“It’s amazing how quickly 40 years have passed. I have, along with many here, have had the distinct pleasure of working with you; not only as County Councillor, MLA, Minister, and Premier…”I remember as MLA going over plans the village undertook. In all seriousness, we see an end of an era, an era where public servants set aside the clock whether it’s a family matter in town, broken waterline, stray dog, derelict
term, obviously he’s been proven wrong over three-and-half years down the road and it’s still ongoing. That just shows the spirit of us Ukrainians. We fight hard. We don’t give up, and we fight for what we think is right. So, they still need money, donations, prayers, and let’s not forget them because they aren’t on TV anymore. Ukraine, continue to stand strong.”
Diduck, who grew up a few miles away from Chipman, commended Tomkow on her 40 years and said it was an amazing accomplishment, and noted that Chipman has always maintained some historical buildings, which is a credit to her and previous councils.
I’m not sure retirement date, but have a
Shana McIntyre, Deputy Mayor of the Village of Chipman, also paid tribute to Tomkow, who has “mentored and supported four mayors and almost a dozen councillors. That is a huge feat in and of itself.
When she started village in debt…Through hard work and dedication from Pat and council they were able to put village into the black in a few years, and through successful management continued to keep Chipman the beautiful, independent and debt free community that we are today. Your dedication to the Village can be seen in the countless and tireless hours to the Village, not just through her vast knowledge and experience with budgets and management of operations; but also through the hands on work in the early days helping lay sod in various park areas, plant trees, build flower gardens, putting in sidewalks, and painting the curbs at the village office when it was put in place. She continues to volunteer her time in helping the historical society when do perogy dinners for the Car Crafters and various other things. Anyone who knows Pat will tell you that she has a wealth of information and the memory of an ele-
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Part of the Unbreakable Ukraine Picture Show display. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Members of the Lamont Veselka Dancers entertained the crowd. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Co-op Experiences A Year
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Lydia Lastiwka was the Chairperson for the meeting.
Vegreville and District Co-op has had a positive year! This statement was expressed to 43 attendees during the 95th Annual Meeting at Vegreville Elks Hall on May 22.
General Manager Glen McLay reported that Vegreville Co-op had a great year of growth in all commodities, but fuel definitely led the way. They had an increase in sales to over 20 million dollars, which was a real milestone mark for them to achieve. “This was up from $18.2 million the previous year. Food sales increased $215,000, and the Cardlock and Gas bar sales increased by $ 1,611,240. We led the province in low pricing at our Gas Bar for most of the last two quarters of the fiscal year,” McLay stated.
McLay went on to say that although the increased sales sounds fantastic and their Co-op was able to increase their own local savings by over $54,000 the net savings of just over $441,000 this year, it is $165,369 less than the previous year mainly due to lower margins on fuel and their patronage refund from Federated Co-operatives Limited being $219,283 less than the previous year. “The strategy of keeping our prices lower has led to an increase in sales and improved local savings. I am confident that this was just an off year for FCL, and we will be back on track going forward. This year, we continued to upgrade our facilities by adding a new card reader at the Cardlock and retrofitting the freezers with new LED lighting, which is much brighter and far more energy efficient. We also upgraded our compressor monitoring system and did many small repairs that don’t really show, but are necessary to keep our store up to date.”
McLay then announced that this year they had 197 new members who signed up for memberships at the office, as well as 75 new online memberships for a total of 272, which is up from 212 last year, so this is very positive for the future of their organization.
“On marketing and social responsibility, our Co-op is able to give back to this community in many ways. We continue to support as many of the local groups as possible.
McLay closed by expressing gratitude to the board of directors, management, and all the staff for their hard work this past year.
After this, President Joanne Gorda said that they are in a very good financial position and that they will continue to consciously review all opportunities that come across their radar. “Until then, your money is being well take care of.
The board of directors is happy to announce this year’s patronage dividends: One percent on food and three percent on fuel. In total, we are returning $252,644 to our members. Cheques are scheduled to be mailed out in June.”
Following this, Lydia Lastiwka and Colleen Pizardko were elected to the board. Their positions will be decided at another meeting. McLay administered the Oath of Office for all board members, who also include: Joanne Gorda, Bonnie Litwin, Heather Foran, Mike Cooper, and Laura Danilak.
Glen McLay. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
New board from L-R: Bonnie Litwin, Mike Cooper, Joanne Gorda, Heather Foran, Lydia Lastiwka, Laura Danilak, Colleen Pidzarko-Armitage. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
90 Years Ago – May 29, 1935
A sharp reduction of 8% in Canada in potato acreage for 1935 is indicated, according to official estimates. This reduction would bring the 1935 area in potatoes back to the 1933 area level. The main reductions are in the provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and, Ontario.
Mr. Wm. Steblyk of New Kiew struck a lucky ticket with which he won a set of dishes valued at $15.00 raffled at the Chipman Bazaar.
Katie Kylik has resigned from her post as supervisor of internal fortification at the Sunrise Café in Two Hills, being succeeded by Olga Buk.
Canada supplies New Zealand with some of the scoops used both for measuring the usual half-globe portions of ice cream and for rectangular portions to be inserted between wafers.
Mrs. Alida Cole, the grand old lady of the Old Vegreville district, will celebrate her 90th birthday on Sunday, June 2nd. She came to Canada in 1892 with her family and in 1899, the homestead was taken up west of Old Vegreville. Grandma is in good health considering her years.
75 Years Ago – May 31, 1950
Ten nurses graduated from the General Hospital School of Nursing. The graduating nurses included: Miss May E. Nelson of Marwayne; Miss Helen A. Slevinsky of Two Hills; Miss Rose M. Adomeit of Lloydminster; Miss Rose Lenkoski of Holden; Miss Emily Wincentowich of Killam; Miss Rose D. Ruptash of Hairy Hill; Miss Alice M. Raymond of Edmonton; Miss Pauline C. Ruddick of Vegreville; Miss Jewell E. Mealing of Clyde; and Miss Annie Wojnar of Mapova.
Hens in the Rocky Mountain House district go in for large eggs. A Barred Rock, owned by Mrs. J. Ankle, recently laid one measuring 8 ¼ inches around the ends and weighing 3 ¼ ounces, and a few days later a neighbor White Sussex laid a 4 ¼ ounce egg.
The Eastern U.S. is keeping an eye on Alberta’s natural gas, waiting for the time it will be available, E.J. Funk, Jr., Baltimore, Maryland, said here. Mr. Funk is vice president and chief engineer of C.M. Kemp, a manufacturer of newspaper melting pots, stereotyping equipment, and industrial equipment. “A great deal of industrialization is waiting for natural gas from Canada,” Mr. Funk said. Texas also is a likely source of gas and a pipeline is being mooted.
50 Years Ago – May 29, 1975
Miss Lisa Edwards has recently acquired double honors in the Edmonton Kiwanis Music Festival held this month. She placed first in Flute Solo, Class D, and received many encouraging remarks from the flute adjudicator. She was notified that she was the recipient of the I.O.D.E. Music Scholarship for flute given by that organization. Lisa is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Kubin of Vegreville.
Five of the goose nesting islands could not be located on May 12 due to the rise in the water level of Sickman Lake while the other seven nests required some repairs. According to the written report by the Chairman of the Vegreville Fish and Game and Rifle Association’s project. Sam Smolyk, the installation of three culverts that drain the lake is apparently “the cause of raided waters on the lake this spring.”
Tom Murphy has been appointed district superintendent of the newly formed AGT District 4 headquartered in Vegreville. “Construction of the new buildings should be completed next fall,” said Bill Janewski, field operations superintendent. “By the end of this year, we’ll have about 40 people working in the district. District 4 will be equivalent in manpower and facilities to the other three districts in two to three years,” Bill predicted.
25 Years Ago – May 30, 2000
Planning for a meat packing plant in Vegreville is coming along quite well according to the owner. Wesley Sexsmith told Vegreville Rotary Club members that planning is coming along and they hope to break ground soon for construction of the plant.
Bulk fuel is being stolen from the area around Willingdon, Andrew, and St. Michael. Two Hills RCMP reports they have received numerous complaints over the past several months about the thefts.
Vegreville property owners will see a slight decrease in their municipal taxes this year although the town will spend more money than last.
Nick Mouyios flips pancakes at the Kinsmen Club of Vegreville’s community and business appreciation breakfast held at the Legion Hall.
Grant Sapara won first place in the men’s golf championship flight at the spring open tournament.
Mary Immaculate Hospital Auxiliary of Mundare presented a cheque for $100 to Cst. Mike Astle, RCMP Vegreville at a brunch held by the Knights of Columbus at Mundare National Hall. The end of an era took place in Mundare as one of the Agricore elevators tumbled to the ground.
Letters Welcomed
One role of the Vegreville News Advertiser is to promote dialogue on various issues of concern to area residents. We accomplish this by welcoming Letters to the Editor and allowing various issues to be debated through our pages. All letters must contain the writer’s name, address and phone number. Anonymous letters will not be printed, however the writer’s name may be withheld from publication in special circumstances deemed appropriate by the Publisher. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to edit letters for length, clarity, spelling and grammar, taste or for reasons of potential libel. A maximum of 150 words is preferred. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to withhold letters from publication.
AI – Friend or Foe?
Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser
FROM THE PAGES OF THE VEGREVILLE OBSERVER COMPILED BY DAN BEAUDETTE Every time a newspaper dies, even a bad one, the
– Opinion
You can’t go a day or two without the topic of AI coming up in one form or another. I may see more of it than most because of my work, and algorithms, but it touches more parts of our lives every day that goes by.
I was driven to write about AI following a few things that occurred in the past week. Again, I see a lot of AI news and various companies touting their AI integrations which will solve most imaginable problems. Most intriguing is the use of AI in cybersecurity on both sides of the table. Bad actors will use it to try to take your money, and the good guys are using it for defence.
Most recently, I saw a commercial online where PM Mark Carney himself was on video promoting a new crypto investing tool that was just recently made available to Canadians, guaranteed to make me $1,000 per day. If you pay me $100, I’ll convince you not to invest and save you the rest of the money this scam would cost you. First of all, I’m quite sure the image of Mark Carney was AI generated because I highly doubt our PM would be flogging a crypto currency investment scheme. However, it is getting much harder to tell the difference. Hands used to be a challenge for AI, but that seems to have been fixed. Now you have to watch for ever more subtle “tells” that the video is not authentic. I saw another video of “someone” advertising an AI video maker that was generated by AI and one YouTube channel I frequent often posts videos of the host speaking to viewers where he specifically states that he is the AI version of himself giving out the info while his real self is enjoying a beverage. It is hard to tell the difference.
While video this good is rather new, there are already many companies now offering the tools needed to make videos in various formats. Audio on the other hand has been solved for quite some time. In case you were not aware, you cannot trust audio alone, such as the voice of someone you know on the phone. Now, you may need a confirmation phrase or something similar, because it takes very little now to clone a person’s voice. Many voiceovers in YouTube videos are generated by AI. In a recent demo, AI voices were shown in a Disney-like video that will soon be replacing voice actors.
Last week, The Chicago Sun-Times published an upcoming summer book-reading list that was AI-generated. This is becoming more common and now AI agents can scrape news from sites and write Facebook or blog posts for you. However, in the case of the Sun-Times, there was no byline and at least 10 of the titles so glowingly reviewed do not even exist. There were titles credited to well-known authors that are entirely the imagination of the AI. If you go down that rabbit hole you will discover that there are now swaths of AI generated books for sale on the Internet. People who have become the unwitting buyers have reported that some of these books go on and on with no real coherent information. What is worse perhaps is the possibility that these AIs are being taught by material found on the web. Perhaps from an article from the Sun-Times or a book found online.
For some, like the voice actors, AI is coming for their jobs. Computer science Professor, Vivek Kumar, from Thompson Rivers University believes that generative AI is already impacting the future workforce and removing the need for “hard skills” people train years for. Soft skills are the future and students in university settings must work at learning how to use AI and how it will impact the workplace in the future.
On the bright side, AI still has shortcomings. Recently.
Richard Kluger -
Friend for Foe? - CONTINUED ON PAGE 20
Summer East Central Machinery Consignment Auction
Sale Starts on June 6th, 2025 - Machinery Ring Closes June 10th, 2025
Livestock Ring Closes June 11th, Miscellaneous Ring Closes June 9th, 2025
Location: Hwy #16 & Rge Rd 185 (1 Mile East of Hwy 834) - South Side of the Road
Sale Includes Dispersals for Retirement Dispersal for Barrhead Rentals, Stock Reduction for Heavy Metal Equipment, Dispersal For Hutzkal Farms, Semi Retirement Dispersal For Errol Warkentin
Changes to Vegreville Food Bank
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
A year ago, Vegreville Food Bank moved to the building near Pot O’ Gold. On May 20, they started moving to their new location next door to their previous space.
Board member Caren Bilyk, who owns this building with her husband Joe Bilyk, explained that the other space was leased to the food bank on a temporary basis for a year, and they will now provide this building for a reasonable amount of rent.
;
Coordinator Briana Pearson Paavola expressed that this space is different. “We had a lot of smaller rooms in the other space, and this one allows for our stock room and hamper room to be together.”
Paavola added that the move went well. They had the right amount of great volunteers who came out and were able to move most of their food on the first day with the help of the Vegreville 4-H Beef Club. So, it was easy to move the shelving on May 21.
We are looking forward to adjusting to the new space and welcoming the community and food bank clients,” Paavola said.
Bilyk mentioned that they are grateful to the businesses, as well as the community members who helped.
There will be some transitional changes that we hope will improve the quality of service to our clients,” Bilyk added.
Another exciting happening is the new
face, Briana Pearson Paavola, who took on her position in early April.
Paavola explained that she wanted to work locally and to work on a job that was in line with her Social Work education. “I was looking for something in the human service field where I could work with clients, get to know people in our community, and help in some way.”
On how it has been so far, Paavola expressed that it has been a learning curve; the move was a big undertaking, but it has been pretty rewarding so far.
“My vision is to shift to monthly hampers. We may have people stock the shelves themselves versus a pre-packaged hamper to hopefully prevent waste for them and us in the way of people not getting items they don’t need. It will also eliminate packaging for volunteers, and people getting food they don’t want.”
Staff and volunteers helping. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Helping People with Transportation Needs
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Vegreville Transportation Services Society provides subsidies for transportation to persons who are: seniors, disabled, or low-income. These subsidies are in the form of a voucher used to pay a portion of each taxi fare. They also operate a wheelchair accessible van for disabled passengers.
Their mission statement is to provide affordable and accessible transportation to people in need in our community.
VTSS presented a brief Annual General Meeting at the Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville on May 22.
President Dwayne Hlady reported that their new handi-van cost them approxi-
mately $120,000 including the upgrades they had to make to it afterwards.
They followed a process to sell their old van, where the community had an opportunity to buy it when they placed an advertisement in the Vegreville News Advertiser, and they found a buyer from this ad.
“We purchased the new van in April 2024, then it was retrofitted and went on the road in mid-November 2024. We are in the process of finding a new person who will be interested in driving the new van,” Hlady said.
For new business, Hlady went on to announce that they are trying to get their existing driver and the new person who wants to drive this new van, and have a reveal celebration.
Estate Auction Sales -Various Location in Alberta Opens on June 13th, 2025 & Closes on June 16th, 2025
Real Estate Auction For Leger Goudreau & Carmen Kueneman of Beaumont
Selling the NE-10-50-24-W4M Being 77.5 Acres M/L. Now Is Your Chance, Located On The Corner Of Airport Road & Hwy 814. This Property Has Excellent Accessibility To Beaumont, Leduc, Nisku & Southeast Edmonton - Sells with a 3 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom House, 40’x52’ Shop, 40’x100’ Quonset, 30’x150’ Poultry Barn Open Houses: Saturday May 24th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Real Estate Sale for Kevin Starr - Thorhill
Selling the SW 17-60-21 W4M Being 158.02 Acres M/L with a 1000 Sq Ft 3 Bedroom Up, 2 Bedroom Down House, a 30’x40’ Shop, Hip Roof, Additional Out Building & 2 Water Wells. Approx. 120 Acres Hay consisting of Alfalfa, Timothy & A Bit of Clover with Approx. 10 Acres of Newly Brushed Land Open Houses:June 7th & June 15th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
40'x80' Shop with Hi-Way Frontage on Corner Lot in Willingdon
Selling a Hwy Frontage Corner Lot with a 40'x80' Commercial Shop on a Double Lot with Water & Sewer at the Property Line. Built in 2018 Viewing by Appointment - Contact Henry at 587-873-2026
- Breton
Selling the NE 1/4 of 33-47-4 W5M Recreational Quarter being Approx. 149.88 Acres M/L.
This Quarter is Split into 2 Pieces by Hwy #616 with Lots of Nice Building Spots on Both Sides, is Split into 2 Hunting Zones & has a Tower Lease of $2,500.00 per Year
For More Information Contact Roy at 780-696-3692
Unreserved Real Estate Auction for Ronald Bobocel of Hamlin
Selling The SE-10-58-14-W4M Recreational Quarter Being 159 Acres M/L. Just 3 kms From The North Saskatchewan River & is a Hunters Paradise with the Potential for Clearing to Put Into Crop or Pasture. For More Information Please Contact Ronald @ 780-650-5020 or Brad @ 780-999-0401
Unreserved Real Estate Auction - Duplex Myrnam
Fully Renovated 2 Unit Duplex sitting on Approx. 3 Acres with Numerous Out Buildings with a Shared Deck, Town Water. Each Unity has its Own Hot Water/Furnace (Tank & Furnace Replaced in Approx. 2017)
Rimbey Office -403-843-2747 - Hwy #16 East Office -780-208-2508 Toll Free -1-855-783-0556
Rimbey & Hwy #16 East, Alberta - License No. 165690 Email: abolson@telusplanet.net - Website: www.allenolsonauction.com
Unreserved Real Estate Auction for Roy & Janet Young
Board members. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
EIPS READ Program Changing Lives One Word at a Time
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Less than two years ago, Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) began its Reading Enrichment and Development (READ) pilot project.
READ was launched at five Fort Saskatchewan school and two rural
schools to aid eligible Grade 2 students struggling with reading. The goal was to improve student reading achievement through a powerful, targeted intervention program based on the science of reading.
The pilot was so successful, EIPS expanded the program in the 2024-35 school year to include all elementary schools. Additionally, the school division has begun piloting the program with eligible students in Grades four and seven at specific schools.
The rural schools that are currently involved with the READ program include:
COUNTY OF MINBURN NO. 27 PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The County of Minburn is seeking a full-time Public Safety Officer for emergency response, fire prevention, bylaw enforcement, and health & safety.
Must have NFPA 1001 Level 1, First Aid, and Class 3 license (or ability to obtain).
Learn more about the position by visiting the job opportunities link under the Online Services tab on the County of Minburn website at https://minburncounty.ab.ca/p/job-opportunities.
Apply by email to hr@minburncounty.ab.ca before 4:30 pm on June 9, 2025.
• A.L. Horton Elementary—eligible students in grades 2 and 4
• Bruderheim School—eligible students in grades 2 and 4
• Lamont Elementary—eligible students in Grade 2
• Lamont High—eligible students in Grade 7
• Mundare School—eligible students in grades 2 and 4
“I’ve noticed many positive changes in my students involved with READ,” says Kendra Glauser, a Grade 7 teacher at Lamont High. “They’re all
more willing and enthusiastic to participate in class. These students are also starting to develop more confidence in reading the page and reading out loud—one student even asked to read Percy Jackson out loud to the class the other day! They’re much more persistent writers too, and they’re able to write for longer than before.”
“Another interesting thing I’ve noticed with students in the READ program is they’re working harder and seem to be more engaged in math and science, as well,” adds Glauser. “From my perspective, having that confidence in their own reading skills allows them to focus more on the understandings in these subjects, rather than worrying about reading certain words correctly. Very neat!”
EIPS Board Chair Cathy Allen said the success of the READ program has had a profound impact on the school division. “We’re seeing so many students come out of the program reading at grade-level. It’s amazing. READ has fostered such positive working and learning environments. Students are excited to attend school, families celebrate their child’s prog-
ress at home and staff are experiencing the difference in their classrooms.”
Specialized Reading Interventionist Tamara Martin Spady hopes to expand the program to Grade 1 students and to provide a reading course for staff in the 2025-26 school year. “I’m proud of what the program has become and the potential for
what it could be. We’ll continue to follow the research and adapt to what works best. Nothing can describe the feeling when a student reaches a milestone in their reading journey after working so hard. Students are just as passionate as we are about their success in reading, so that’s why we’re able to achieve so much together.”
Specialized reading interventionists at EIPS support the READ program.
(Elk Island Public Schools/Submitted Photo)
Rosanne
Fortier
News Correspondent
A Rewarding Achievement Day
The best of rural living came to life when 37 club members showcased their well-kept and immaculately groomed cattle at the Vegreville 4-H Beef Club Annual Show and Sale on May 26 at Vegreville Agricultural Grounds!
Twenty-seven steers were showcased and sold at the sale, where the average weight was 1,373 lbs. There were 13 female cattle projects and 10 cleaver projects.
Club Leader Kelly Weleschuk said, “4-H
is truly an amazing program that teaches youth many life lessons that will help them to succeed in their future. 4-Hers are hardworking individuals who are always willing to step up and help out in any way they can, especially in our community.
Each of our members makes huge commitments and spends countless hours to get these animals to where they are today, and it truly shows when they enter the show ring. These kids are the future of agriculture, and with them, the agriculture industry has never looked brighter.
We had a very successful sale and all the members are grateful to the community for all the support, especially from our sponsors, buyers, and runner-up bidders.”
Fifteen-year-old Ella McCallum is a senior member and in her third year of 4-H, explained that her market steer, ‘Choice’ is a yearling. Ella shared that she learned so much and made many new friends in the club. She learned everything about a steer from them. She has been raising Choice since October 2024, and discovered how to handle a big responsibility, from feeding him a couple of times a day and working with him. “It was a good experience overall.”
Riley Warawa is 17-years-old and in his fifth year in 4-H. “I learned how to show the cattle, how to groom them, and how to judge them. I learned so much and it was such a great experience that I want other kids to join and learn this in the future.
My steer, Dirk, is a year old. The experience raising him was very easy; he was very quiet the whole year, and he didn’t put up any fight for me. But it still taught me responsibility, as I had to work with him a couple of times a day. However, he is super easy to work with as he is very calm.”
The Achievement Day Winners are:
Senior Judging: First - Luke Brooke, Second - Logan Brooke, and Third- Madison Warawa.
Intermediate Judging: First - Karly Weleschuk and Case Yakubow (Tie), Second - Ariana Klammer, and Third - Paiten Axten.
Junior Judging: First - Cooper Axten, Second - Emma Trabysh, and Third - Avery Pipke.
Senior Grooming: First - Luke Brooke, Second - Logan Brooke, and Third - Madison Warawa.
Intermediate Grooming: First- Paiten Axten, Second - Ariana Klammer, and Third - Avery Ziegler.
Junior Grooming: First-Cooper Axten,
Achievement - CONTINUED ON PAGE 23
L-R: Nate Pipke with Supreme Female cattle winner Logan Brooke with Ty Dietrich and Tawyna Copland. (Vegreville 4-H Beef Club/Submitted Photo)
Congratulations Class of 2025 ST. MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2025 Shines
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
The theme for St. Mary’s Catholic School 2025 Graduation Celebrations was ‘Starry Night’. Thirtyone graduates shone with their unique personalities throughout the Divine Liturgy Mass at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church on May 20 and the Ceremony at Vegreville Social Centre on May 23.
Isabella De Guzman was the Valedictorian, and Cameron Dixson was the Salutatorian.
Mrs. Giebelhaus, Mrs. Michaelchuk, and Mrs. Wowdzia were the Coordinators.
The messages echoed with advice to embrace their individuality, talents, and skills. Chelisa Gotobed opened by leading the attendees in singing O Canada.
MC’s Madyson Nichol and Tatianna Salinas-Saez guided graduates and special guests through the ceremony, which began with congratulatory greetings read on behalf of Honourable MLA Jackie ArmstrongHomeniuk, who is also Parliamentary Secretary for Settlement Services and Ukrainian Evacuees. They read, “Each of you has the potential to impact the world in your own way, and while that prospect seems far away, I encourage you to pursue that with the same enthusiasm and dedication that brought you here today.”
Following this, Mayor of Vegreville Tim MacPhee said that all the grads’ hard work, the
work of their teachers and staff at St. Mary’s, has led them to the stage tonight. “As you share this evening with proud parents, siblings, grandparents, and friends; we should recognize the hard work and dedication they put in to help you achieve your goals up to this point. If I could give you any advice, it
St. Mary’s Catholic School 2025 Graduating Class.
(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Madyson Nichol and Tatianna Salinas-Saez. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Congratulations Class of 2025 ST. MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL
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would be to not be afraid to fail, but be afraid of not trying. Every one of you will make a difference in this world, every one of you will make a difference in somebody’s life; work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen for you.”
Trustee Teresa Makowecki shared that we are all a perfect 10 and worthy in God’s eyes. “In a world with challenges and uncertainties, His unwavering faith becomes our anchor, guiding us towards self-acceptance and inner peace. My dear graduates, as you stand at the threshold of the new chapter of your life, I urge you to remember this invaluable lesson: embrace the
truth that you are a treasure and loved unconditionally by a higher power, destined to fulfill a unique purpose in this world. In moments of doubt and tribulation, be unwavering in your faith.”
Assistant Superintendent Brett Cox offered heartfelt congratulations on behalf of EICS and said, “Our theme this year was ‘Rooted in Christ’, taken from the gospel of John 15:5-8. “I am the vine: you are the branches, whoever remains in
me and I in them, will bear much fruit, for without me, you can do nothing. These words have echoed throughout our school this year, and they remind us that growth is not just academic or athletic or artistic, but spiritual. Our strength, our purpose, and our hope come from remaining connected to Christ.”
Principal Mr. Salsbury and Assistant Principal Mrs.
Giebelhaus spoke next and expressed that they were very proud of the graduates, as these young people worked hard, adapted, persevered, calibrated, occasionally prayed over exams, and they became young people of character, compassion, and courage.
“You earned grades, you learned lessons, and you progressed through grade levels to make it to this point. However, it all began with your parents choosing a Catholic education for you. You, yourself, have the power to decide how a Catholic education has fundamentally shaped how you respond to things.”
Father Iryney led in saying grace which was followed by a delicious meal by Holy Trinity Catering.
After this, Guest Speaker Father Robert Lee stated that the graduates’ lives were infinitely more interesting and infinitely more complex than any TV show or movie they will ever see. Lee then said a prayer asking God to speak simply to the grads’ souls. This means not to be overwhelmed by multiple choices, causes, or phrases. For God to give each grad simple direction from the heart of the person.
“Never forget the Lord Jesus is near to those who call upon Him even if the prayer is speak simply to my soul,” Lee said.
Antonchuk and John Rey De
amusing anecdotes, but later they expressed how much everyone meant to them and the impact they had on each other’s lives.
In closing, Cameron Dixson and Sage Lappa passed down the School Colours to Caiden Steinwand and Kate Albrecht.
Andrew Henderson
Barret Scherger
Aidan Palmer
Alexander Houle-Hadley
Mrs. Giebelhaus and Mr. Salsbury. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Grads at the mass. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Robert
Guzman presented the Tribute to Parents, Neila Nelsen and Michelle Henderson
gave the Response to Parents. Brooklyn Peyton and Andrew Henderson issued the Tribute to Teachers and Mrs. Stuart and Mr. Manderson gave the Response from Teachers. These messages were all filled with
Teresa Makowecki. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Brett Cox. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Isabella De Guzman
St. Mary’s Grad 2025 Valedictorian Good evening graduates, family, friends, St. Mary’s staff, mentors, and leaders. Each of you make a night like this possible through the work that you do as our graduation is only possible through the collective efforts of our community and encouragement of our loved ones. I want to extend my
Valedictorian’s Speech
gratitude on behalf of the Class of 2025, for taking time out of your day to be here tonight. Before I begin my last rambling spiel to you graduates, this time not in front of a slideshow in which I am jeopardizing your social class time (sorry Ms. Stuart), I want to thank my parents.
I stand in front of you all as a Valedictorian only because of the family I was raised in. When your parents leave behind their lives, their families, friends, their culture to move to a country across the globe where the people speak a language not their own, both literally and culturally, all for the sake of creating a better life for not only themselves but for their family, the value of hard work—out of what can only be motivated by love—is never lost on me. I was raised on hard work and love, and born because of it. I am end-
lessly thankful for the life that my parents have given me, and for the life I’m about to lead.
Now to the class of 2025, many of our paths have been intertwined since the age of four or five. For some of you, our paths crossed for the first time later down the road, whether it be later in elementary school or here at St. Mary’s. Sometimes I forget this because I can easily picture each of
Valedictorian Isabella De Guzman. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Fun times with friends. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Fun times with friends. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
us running around in the same Kindergarten classroom. Regardless of when you have joined us here today to be in this very graduating class, we have watched each other grow up, from the age of macaroni art, to awkward preteen years, to now. It is an incredible privilege to know each other when many come from schools in which they are only a face in a sea of people, only a name in a list of hundreds or thousands of graduates. It is something special that I could point to each of the graduates and tell you a little about them. Graduation is a word of fiction in my mind. Graduation is
for the characters in books, TV-shows, and movies. It’s reserved for older friends, older family members, the St. Mary’s alumni hung up on the wall, but never for myself. I remember coming to St. Mary’s as a little horrified seventh grader and thinking how tall and grown the Grade 12’s looked, and now that I’m in Grade 12 myself I realise that we’re still kids, just a little bit taller.
being the children we once were, I think that there is a truth to feeling like we’re still kids. If you look on each of your tables, there are pictures of our younger selves on display. Isn’t it strange to look upon these little people who look a lot like us, but haven’t even witnessed the half of it yet?
We’ve spent every single day in the same bodies as these kids but millions and millions of microscopic changes every single day over the course of 17, 18 years—as it turns out—
Valedictorian’s Speech - CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
The year “2025” has always felt like a made up year to me. Yet, miraculously here we are. We stood in caps and gowns only a few days ago, and all of you are here in your fancy suits, and the dresses we’ve been dreaming about since we were little girls. It somehow feels like simultaneously a lifetime ago and only yesterday when we were putting library books into kanga pouches, being amazed at smelly markers and jelly bean erasers, getting our fingers stuck under scooter boards, accusing each other of “broken dishes” playing grounders, or fighting over who gets to be the line leader. Now, we’re all about to lead lives of our own. My parents always tell me how much we’ve all grown since they’ve last seen us, how different we look. It always surprises me because a part of me thinks that a day hasn’t passed since we were in Kindergarten or in Grade seven.
Although we are grown, and far from
Dezmon Sawan
Elizabeth Kebel
Chelisa Gotobed
Claire Miller
Chelisa Gotobed. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Fun times with friends. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
completely transforms you into the adults we are becoming. But those little kids that sit in the picture frames on each of your tables, to whom the world of crayons and playgrounds is still theirs, though we now are a lot taller than they are and hopefully smarter, they are not gone. Rather, they live in each and every single one of you. They always have, and they will continue to live within us through every single period of our lives. Through every moment of joy, of sorrow, every milestone, and every failure they are watching over our shoulders
hoping we choose what’s best for them. All I ask of each of you graduates is to never leave that little girl or little boy behind. The time that we are children, is the time where we are most unabashedly ourselves, where we are uninhibited by the fear of judgement and expectations. We are ourselves in the purest form. We loved jumping in puddles despite the mess it made for our parents, screaming with the unrestrained joy of youth, running along sidewalk pavement and falling and scraping our knees, only to get back up and continue on running. We loved without fear.
As we got older we began to neglect our inner child in one way or another, trading authenticity for the comfort of conformity, trading our dreams of passion for dreams that have been laid out for us, trading our pride in the person that our souls have shaped us to be for feeling embarrassed or dissatisfied with what is uniquely ours—where what we have never quite seems like enough.
As you each move on with your lives I beg that you always keep that younger version of yourself in mind, because when you do I think you’ll find that happiness is easier to come by. Because when you let that inner child run free within yourself to love what they love, the happiness that arises is yours, not your friends’, family’s, nor society’s, but instead a happiness that is handcrafted by the soul that is yours to keep. When you do everything for the happiness of the little girl or little boy you once were, you might find that maybe you choose the right friendships or the right relationships more often because the feelings of that little kid and how they’re being treated matters, and you wouldn’t let the same things happen to them that you might let happen to yourself now.
Loving others comes a little easier because we remember that the people all around us were once children too, and oftentimes we do things because that little kid inside of us is afraid to get hurt. So, we share our pains and offer helping hands as we were taught to as children. Loving yourself comes also easier as every time you think about all of those mean things you might believe about yourself, your insecurities, your anxieties, your shame, your self-hatred, each time you say those things to yourself, you say those same things to the
Ewan Lakusta
Gracie Gregg
Cameron Dixson and Sage Lappa hand the school colours to Kate Albrecht and Caiden Steinwand. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Valedictorian’s Speech - CONTINUED From PAGE 13
Fun times with friends.
(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
little kid you once were, to the little kid framed on your table. This world is yours to explore when you allow what’s yours—your happiness, your sorrows, your dreams, yourself in the purest form to exist amongst it. So, as the intertwined paths we’ve walked so long upon begin to unravel and go every which way, as you each discover your place amidst things, be a little kinder to yourselves, to others, and let that little kid who is motivated by pure unadulterated joy and love be the line leader.
These are our last few weeks together as classmates. This small world that has been our entire lives will soon be only
a small portion of the lives we’re about to lead, and all of this will one day be a distant memory. Maybe the next time you will be in a room like this, you will be watching your own children walk the stage. In the blink of an eye we all will be husbands or wives, scholars, business owners, mothers and fathers. These last few moments together are fleeting, and invaluable. As we continue to celebrate our graduation into the night and as we return to our final classes of our high school lives, remember to look around and take it all in, and savour the feeling.
As you recount old stories tonight and create new ones, think about how wonderful it is that there is a human being right beside you. As you laugh too hard for the last time in your classes over something stupid that makes sense to only us, savour the burning feeling in your stomach and lungs as your body pours out an overflow of joy. As you sit in your classes, look around you and notice how much we’ve grown since the first time we’ve crossed paths. And as you sit here in our graduation ceremony, think about how proud little you would be of how far you’ve come, and how far you have yet to go.
Finally, I want to share with you one of my favourite poems: “Wild Geese” by Mary Oliver, in the hopes you hold onto its message as you go out into the world after graduation. You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves. Tell me about despair, yours, and I will tell you mine. Meanwhile the world goes on. Meanwhile the sun and the clear pebbles of the rain are moving across the landscapes, over the prairies and the deep trees, the mountains and the rivers.
Whoever you are, no matter how lonely, the world offers itself to your imagination, calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting– over and over announcing your place in the family of things.
So, my dear graduates of 2025, please remember the kids we once were, the kids we still are. Hold onto their hands and you will find that they will lead you to your place within this world. Thank you.
Jordyn Massey
Jack Kebel
Jessica Stuart
times with friends. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Mr. Manderson and Mrs. Stuart. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Meanwhile the wild geese, high in the clean blue air, are heading home again.
Cameron Dixson
St. Mary’s Grad 2025 Salutatorian
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, honourable guests, and fellow graduates. I am honoured to be selected as this year’s salutatorian. Although I am not quite sure what a salutatorian’s speech is supposed to sound like, as all the graduations I have been to have not had one. So, this speech will be my rendition of it, no ChatGPT or Copilot AI, just my trusty ol’ noggin (and some
Speech
of my mother’s too).
For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Cameron Dixson, and I moved to Vegreville in Kindergarten. Making a hard transition in a rough time of my life was made so much easier by being welcomed with some of the most caring and friendly people I have ever met. The same people that I now have the opportunity to graduate with.
We have grown so much as a group over the years, thank goodness, because junior high had me a little worried for the wellbeing of the teachers. It got shaky when every other week there was an incident of Lucas finding cheese in anything and everything cheese could be put in, most notably the Dr. Pepper. So, thank you teachers, for sticking it out with us; you made it possible for us to walk down these steps tonight.
Tonight is a very exciting yet sad night, it marks the end of a chapter in all of our lives. Some of us look forward to writing the next chapter, while some are still looking for inspiration on what to do with the rest of our lives. But the truth is nobody knows what the future holds; life can get flipped upside down in an instant. For example, spraining your ankle before a big game or track meet, a situation I am all too familiar with.
All we can do is be ready to roll with the
punches and never lose hope in the dreams we have. Even if that dream is being a professional brawl stars player or as Mr. K would say, bro stars or bang bang shoot ‘em up games. Over the last 13 years, I have gotten to know all of you, and I can confidently say you are all capable of greatness. We are all so talented in different ways, and I have seen everyone shine throughout the years.
I think right about now is when I’m supposed to say some
Kya Nelson
John Rey De Guzman and Robert Antonchuk. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Brooklyn Peyton and Andrew Henderson. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Salutatorian Cameron Dixson. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
inspirational stuff that motivates you to become successful. So let’s give that a whirl. The main points I want to leave you with tonight are from four very influential people in my life. Theo Von, Jesus, Michael Jordan, and Ms. Stuart. Does putting you on this list make up for being late to social 26 times, Ms. Stuart?
The first quote I found was credited to Theo Von on some inspirational Instagram pages. I felt that this was way too complete of a thought to be Theo Von, turns out I was right, and it was actually the philosopher Albert Schweitzer who first said it. The quote read, “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” I think this quote is perfect for this time of our lives, do what
you love and the pieces will fall into place. While this is true, I think there is a bit more to happiness than that. In John 15: 10-11 Jesus says, “If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” So, while it is important to pursue the things we are passionate about, keep in mind that true joy is found when we follow the commands of our Heavenly Father. This is not to say it will always be sunshine and rainbows if you are doing what you love, because it won’t.
This leads me into my next quote, which is from the greatest basketball player of all time, the undisputed GOAT, Michael Jordan. “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”
Understanding that failure is inevitable in life is key to being able to bounce back after something doesn’t go our way. Overcoming adversity and failure is what makes us stronger and builds our character. Not to compare myself to the great MJ, but if I had quit discus when I didn’t qualify for Provincials my first year, I would have never come back the next year and become a Provincial champion. No matter how many times life knocks you down, you gotta get back up and keep moving forward.
Which brings me to my final quote by Ms. Stuart, “Be Relentless.” This became our motto on the basketball team. It didn’t matter if we were down 20; we played like it was a tie game. Don’t be content to coast along…accept a challenge and do whatever you can to rise to it. That is what being relentless is about: giving it all you’ve got no matter the circumstances. When in doubt, go all out. Regardless the outcome of your efforts, you will never
regret giving it all you got.
As we begin this new chapter of our lives, I hope that you all find true happiness wherever life leads you and I pray that you are relentless no matter what you encounter on the long road that lies ahead. Now, if you zoned out or are still thinking about the amazing food you ate, I have one last thought for you to ponder. Courtesy of my Dad, the last quote is from Mary Kay Ash and reads, “Don’t limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to what they think they can do. You can go as far as your mind lets you.” So, to all my fellow graduates, shoot for the stars. Get it, stars…
Thank you!
William Sankowski
Robert Antonchuk
Ryder van der Torre
Family and friends gather. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Sage Lappa
Shopping for Growing Season
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Four tables were full of starter veggies, seed potatoes, annual flowers, perennials, and a great variety of houseplants, and fruit shrubs at the Annual Plant Sale on May 23 at the Vegreville Farmers’ Market at Vegreville Elks Hall.
Coordinator Sonia Hunka expressed that it was great to see such a large amount of plant contributions and varieties that went towards their sale. “Each year, we attract new, well-seasoned, and returning customers who end up with something to take home.
The highlights were the smiles on gardeners while they exchanged ideas and knowledge about plants and gardening. Also, we had a donation of gardening tools. I think the sale was a great success! Funds will
be used for speakers, our annual Horticulture Show during the fair days, and helping our Junior Gardener program.”
Customer Elita Chindabata shared that she was so excited to go to this sale, where she found a tomato plant. “The prices were fair, and there was quite a bit of variety. The organizers were knowledgeable.”
Happy shoppers. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Happy shoppers. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Vegreville Blue Jays Fly High
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Vegreville Blue Jays started the 2025 season with a 17-7 win versus the Tofield Braves at Tofield on May 10 and fell 7-1 at the home opener game to the Rosalind Athletics at the Riverview Ball Diamonds on May 15.
Player/Manager Grayson Soprovich shared that they have a 12-player roster this year and are allowed 20, so they are always seeking new players from the area. They are quite different than a few other teams in the league who have large
rosters, they largely rely on their guys to make every game. “Someone like me who loves baseball and sports, I organize my day-to-day life around it!”
Soprovich said the highlights have been so far this season. “Stephen Hrabec and Zak Lang each have one home run. Kyle Muzechka once again will be our main pitcher. And we have recruited a good, young player, Logan Janzen who lives in the Holden area. Thank goodness we found him! He is in his early twenties, and for the rest of us, this is year 14 of our senior baseball team, so most of us have been playing senior baseball for 14 years and minor baseball for about eight years before that, or even more!”
Soprovich went on to state that their objective this year is to hopefully win it all, but also try and convince some younger guys to play baseball to sustain the team going forward. “I have been playing baseball since I was about 12-years-old. So, I’ve been playing baseball for about 18 years now, and senior baseball for about 12 years. We have a core group of six players who are ultracompetitive and take great pride in play-
Vegreville U15 Boys Take Off with Good Start to Season
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
There are 20 players on the Vegreville U15 Boys Soccer team Head Coach Stephanie MacComish said that so far this season they have played Cold Lake, defeating them by a score of 6-1, and downing the Bonnyville squad 5-2, and losing their home game 4-3 against St Paul in a close battle against one of their toughest competitors in the league.
MacComish said the highlights included some amazing saves from their goalie, who is playing in the net for the first time this
season. As well, “The teamwork the boys showed with passing and supporting each other on the field, and some great goals against a strong goalie. We are looking forward to our weekend in Camrose for the Camrose Night Classic, where we will use those games to prepare for the Lakeland Cup in June, in hopes that we will make it to Provincials this year!”
Vegreville Minor Soccer Association Registrar and Communications Director Shelley Berry had previously stated that other players from various teams were experiencing ‘in-season training’ by Revolution Soccer.
ing together for so long! So, we want to win together again. We are also hoping some of the younger guys consistently play to help us out.
We’ve been in touch with the minor baseball teams and are trying to have some of the high school students come out and play a game with us to get them interested in playing at our level.”
Break time. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Vegreville Blue Jays versus the Rosalind Athletics.
(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Vegreville U15 Boys versus the St. Paul U15 Boys in action.
(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Tributes
OSTAPOWICH, Jim
December 12, 1943 - May 31, 2022
I think of things you used to say
And all that you would do,
At some point every single day,
My thoughts will turn to you.
To lose you was a bitter wrench,
The pain cut to my core.
I cried until my tears ran out
And then I cried some more.
This wouldn’t be your wish for me
That I’d be forever sad
So I try to remind myself
Of the happy times we had.
I know I can’t be with you now
And you can’t be with me
But safe inside my heart you’ll stay,
That’s where you’ll always be.
With Love Always and Forever
Your loving wife Sylvia, children, grandchildren and great grandsons.
RITA
April 27, 1937 - May 30, 2024
We little knew that morning
That God was going to call your name
In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same It broke our hearts to lose you
You did not go alone for part of us went with you
The day God called you home
You left us peaceful memories
Your love is still our guide and though
We cannot see you, you are always at our side
Our family chain is broken
And nothing seems the same, but as God calls us
One by one, the chain will link again.
Forever loved, forever missed
Deb, Todd, Miles and families.
MARYNOWICH, Josephine Joyce “Josie” (née Orlecki)
On May 25, 2025, Josephine Joyce “Josie” Marynowich of Vegreville, AB peacefully passed away at the age of 72 years.
Left to cherish her memory is her loving husband of 53 years, David; children, Christopher (Shannon) and Darrell (Megan); three grandchildren, Jordan, Carson and Kai; brothers, Bill and Doug (Colette); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends. Josie was predeceased by her parents, Peter and Dorothy.
Special thanks to the staff of the Cross Cancer Institute and Two Hills Health Centre for their care and compassion shown to Josie and family.
A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Park Memorial Funeral Home in Vegreville, 4814 - 50 Street.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Two Hills Health Centre Foundation via cheque or e-transfer to 4401 - 53 Avenue, Two Hills, AB T0B 4K0, thhcfoundation@outlook.com or a charity of one’s choice.
Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com.
Park Memorial
Vegreville 780-632-2000
Family-Owned Funeral Home And Crematorium
Vegreville Royal Purple Lodge #125 Initiation of Officers
Members from L-R: Shirley Rattray, (Past President), Janet Kobylnyk (Chaplin), Clara Nawrot (Third Vice President), Susan Stecyk (First Vice President), Mary Karbashewski (President), Marion Baxandall (Second Vice President), Emily Kuly (Guard), Rose Hook (Treasurer), Meylan Andreas (Secretary) and Marian Lemiski (Conductress). (Vegreville Royal Purple Lodge/Submitted Photo)
Vegreville Royal Purple Lodge Submitted
Vegreville Royal Purple Lodge #125 held its yearly Initiation of Officers on May 5.
Mary Karbashewski has kindly taken the position of President this year, and Shirley Rattray will be the Immediate Past President with Clara Nawrot becoming the Third Vice President.
Friend for Foe? - CONTINUED from PAGE 4
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University staffed a fake software company entirely with AI Agents. The results of “TheAgentCompany” simulation were described as chaotic. The top performing AI model struggled to complete 24 percent of the jobs assigned to the company. The worst...1.7 percent. The bots were also prone to deception with one example being an agent that could not find the correct “person” to ask questions of in a company chat. That agent proceeded to rename another user so they could converse. Like any modern advancement, AI can be used as a tool for good or evil. But it is still a tool. It doesn’t seem as though the machines are coming for our jobs any time soon, but bad actors will undoubtedly attempt to use it to come for our money if we are not aware and prepared. Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com
Genie
April 24, 1933 - May 13, 2025
Jeniya Wenzel-Bill, who grew up as Aggie Golinowski on a farm near Lavoy and was known professionally as Genie Wenzel-Bill, spent this sunny Mother’s Day strolling through the town of Mundare and enjoying the music at Baba’s Bistro.
As a teenager, Jeni left the farm to study at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, then started nursing at the Los Angeles County Jail.
Jeni never said much about working at the jail – she soon transferred to the hospital where she met her first husband, Warren Wenzel. She did deplore the treatment her incarcerated patients received, or didn’t receive, and described how she would stand up for them and demand proper care.
That ability to recognize the humanity of her patients and the courage to speak out made her a confidant to many and highly-respected professionally. The pinnacle of her career was as a supervising ICU nurse at Mission Community Hospital in Mission Viejo, California. She also worked as a community nurse in the foothills of the Scottish highlands near Glasgow. She led Girl Scouts in New Providence, NJ and helped start a community newsletter in San Juan Capistrano, CA, and she once ran away from home to go dancing in Chapel Hill, NC. She raised two children as a widow and later married Jack Bill. Widowed again, Jeni returned to Vegreville in 2009.
They played ‘‘You Are My Sunshine’’ at Baba’s Bistro, the one song Jeni remembered learning on the mandolin in her childhood. Two days later, after having lived with Alzheimer’s for more than 35 years, Jeni peacefully slipped away. Jeni was predeceased by her parents Kuba and Tekla Golinowski, siblings Mary ‘‘Nady’’ Kitt, Frank Golinowski, Stan Golin, Anne Beaudette and Jean Poulin. Jeni leaves daughters Laura Wenzel (aka George Golightly) and Diane Wenzel; step-daughters Vivien Muir and Lesley Williams; sons-in-law Jeff Cobb, Alan Muir and Gordon Williams; grandchildren Jasper Cobb, Jennifer Thompson, Ross Williams, Gregg Muir and Debbie Muir, and numerous nieces and nephews. Readers are invited to honor Jeni’s dream of being a missionary up north by contributing to Indspire.ca, and to record their memories by visiting www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville,780-603-5800
Shoreside at Wapasu Lake
WOWK,
Wenzel-Bill,
These birds were enjoying some tasty morsels in the water at Wapasu Lake during a warm spring day on May 16.
(Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Separation Veterans Memorial Park
Letter to the Editor
Separating from Canada would be the worst thing that our Premier could do. If successful, she would just open the doors for Quebec to do the same as when they tried to separate about 20 years ago. Good Bye Canada. The Indigenous people are against separation and so is the Saskatchewan Premier. He said he is willing to work with the federal government.
Who is the Alberta Prosperity group? Are they the Freedom Convoy group under a different name who are just stirring up the pot because they cannot have it their way?
I have seen a lot of politics in my lifetime, and this is the worst it can get. No more unity, all division. It’s either my way or no way.
Orest Fodchuk
Thanks for another letter Mr. Fodchuk. Division has been the trend for some time now. It is definitely not unique to Alberta. The pendulum has been swinging too far and common sense has left many discussions entirely. We still live in a democracy, so if the time comes, we will find out, like Quebec, what Alberta thinks. - AB
To: Vegreville Town Council
I write today as a deeply concerned member of our community regarding the recent decision by town officials to rezone a portion of the Veteran’s Memorial Park and eliminate partial parking for the Seniors Sunshine Club. The rezoned area will be sold to a developer to build Duplex Homes.
This action is not just disappointing – it is a betrayal of the values we claim to uphold as a town. Veterans’ Memorial Park was established as a sacred space to honor those who served, and any encroachment upon it for sake of development, convenience, or profit is nothing short of a disgrace. Rezoning part of this hallowed ground sends a chilling message about our priorities and our respect for history and sacrifice.
Equally troubling is the removal of space for parking for the Seniors Sunshine Club, a space that has long served as a vital social and support hub for some of our most cherished residents. Stripping seniors of accessible parking is now only shortsighted but heartless. Many members of the club have limited mobility, and to burden them with additional stress of finding suitable parking is both unfair and dangerous.
This is not the town I know. This is not the community we have worked so hard to build. Decisions such as these
must not be made in haste or certainly not without the consent of the majority of people living in this town. This must be debated, scrutinized, and ultimately guided by the values of respect, inclusion and remembrance.
I urge every concerned resident to voice their opinion, attend town meetings, and demand that this decision be revisited. Let us stand together to protect our veterans’ legacy and ensure that our seniors are treated with the dignity they deserve.
Furthermore, I understand the need for homes in our town, there are many empty lots around town, I do not understand why this particular area is being considered. The fact that this is a serviced lot and this, in turn, helps out the developer as far as cost goes to service other nonserviced lots, unfortunately, is not our citizen’s concern. We are giving up a beautiful, loved and respected space to meet the needs of a developer. This is what it comes down to?
Respectfully,
Christine Cartier
Thank you for writing Christine. We will endeavour to get some comments from town council for clarification on this matter. - AB
A Big Role for Judy Kuffert
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Seventy-seven-year-old Heritage House resident Judy Kuffert was recently elected at a Resident and Family Council meeting to be the new President!
Judy’s wit and sense of humour shines through in the first moments you meet her.
She was born and grew up on a farm in Saskatchewan, where she married a farmer and now has three boys, three daughters-in-law, three grandsons, and three granddaughters.
She came to Vegreville two years ago and moved to Heritage House with her husband a year ago, but he now lives in a long-term facility where she visits him a couple of times a day.
Judy expressed that she wanted to take on this position because she had always worked in the health care field. “I want to make sure things get better for the residents. Some of the ones here are getting more advanced in the higher level of care they need, and I want to make them happy. I thought I would try it for a couple of years and see how it goes,” Judy shared.
On what her duties will be, Judy explained she is learning all the procedures and how to do things. “I will be helping the recreation aide with activities. I coordinate cooking projects and look after the gardens with the residents, as well as the residents telling me ideas that they have, and I present these to the council and the management at meetings. Also, I assist with fundraising.”
Judy used to enjoy curling, water sports when her family lived at the lake, and snowmobiling during the winter months. In her free time now, she enjoys sewing, gardening, playing cards, visiting, and doing activities with her family.
Judy Kuffert. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Alberta Prosperity Project Hosts Town Hall Meeting
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
It was standing room only in the Mundare Recreation Centre hall last Wednesday evening as an estimated crowd of around 150 people came together to learn more about the Alberta Prosperity Project (APP).
Described as a referendum movement for a sovereign Alberta, APP is asking residents to pledge their support digitally so that Alberta can become a sovereign country through a province-wide vote. According to information published on the Alberta Prosperity Project website, as of May 18, 2025; 240,000 Albertans have registered their intent to support the petition.
Priscilla Gagnon welcomed attendees. Gagnon told the crowd, “You are the face of this movement. So, you need to make sure that you are sharing information with people. Because the more that you share, the more we can spread the word. So, please share what you’re learning tonight.
She asked people in attendance if they had attended an APP event before. The vast majority of raised their hands indicating that they had not. “Oh, this is very encouraging,” said Gagnon.
“My second questions is: Raise your hand if you think Canada isn’t working for you anymore and something has to change? I think that’s pretty much 100 percent. So, obviously we’re here for the same reason.”
To best describe the independence movement and its objective were: APP Chief Executive Officer Mitch Sylvestre. Co-Founder and APP Board Chair Dennis Modry made a presentation as well as Economist, Author, Political Commentator, and lay-Theologian Tanner Hnidey.
Gagnon stated that, “An independent Alberta is what the APP is aiming for. It is non-partisan and not for profit educational society that aims to educate, inspire and
going to depend on you…We’ve got 40 events booked in the next 50 days, La Crete to deep south in Alberta. It’s going to take a tremendous amount of time…We’re asking that you work as hard as we do because that’s what it’s going to take.”
advocate for all Albertans about the benefits of freedom and prosperity through independence. The movement began in May of 2021 in a humble oilfield shop in Nisku, AB. Where a group of Albertans, tired of the inefficiencies of provincial leadership and the overreach from Ottawa thought it was time to act. So, the APP was born and here were are today.”
interference. But to be clear, sovereignty is not a left or right issue. Sovereignty is a pragmatic issue. It means freedom from persecution. Political persecution. Economic persecution. Religious persecution. Cultural persecution. That’s what it really means. As a result of sovereignty, I can assure you that when you analyze it every Albertan will substantively benefit from it.”
Tanner Hnidey touched on Bill 12 and that a province or provinces can’t block trade or impose tariffs. He went on to say, “The picture that I’m painting for you is that if Alberta wants to negotiate, especially with those who do not share our particular views on economics and energy we need leverage, and
Mitch Sylvestre outlined the path to a referendum, and what that would entail:
• Collection of digital pledges indicating the intent to vote yes on Alberta Sovereignty.
• Register the petition with Elections Alberta; start gathering physical signatures.
When talking about some of the challenges Canadians are facing and the restrictiveness of the Constitution, Dr. Dennis Modry posed the question, What’s the solution to all of this? Well, we know that it’s impossible to change the constitution because we have an imbalance of power and there’s no real mechanism to own it and change the constitution that would fix a lot of these problems other than Alberta having a successful referendum on Alberta sovereignty. That is really the only leverage that we have to make change that’s been necessary for decades.
What will Alberta Sovereignty actually really mean? In simplistic terms, its self-government without external
• Within 90 days Elections Alberta verifies the signatures collected from the public.
• The Government of Alberta accepts the petition, a referendum is called.
• Referendum win with clear majority obligates the governments to enter negotiations.
“The face of this project is you. You have to take responsibility, because if you don’t take responsibility we cannot do this. How are we going to go from 250,000 to 1.5 million (signatures)? So, you’re going to have to advocate to your friends and neighbours that this needs to happen and the reason it needs to happen. There’s no question in my mind that it needs to happen. So, in order for us to win this, it’s
Second - Sydney Sen, and Third - Mason Yakubow.
Senior Showmanship: First- Logan Brooke, Second- Luke Brooke, and Third - Madison Warawa.
Intermediate Showmanship: First - Paiten Axten, Second - Ariana Klammer, and ThirdAvery Ziegler.
Junior Showmanship: First - Cooper Axten, Second- Avery Pipke, and Third - Nate Pipke and Emma Trabysh (tie).
Best Rate of Gain: Logan
Brooke-Light Weight Split One, First - Ella McCallum and Second- Zander Smith.
Light Weight Split Two: First - Ariana Klammer and Second - Cooper Axten.
Medium Weight Split One: First - Emma Trabysh and Second- Karly Weleschuk.
Medium Weight Split
Two: First - Paiten Axten, Second - Aiden Homeniuk.
Heavy Weight: FirstLogan Brooke and Second - Brady Weleschuk.
Grand Champion Steer: Paiten Axten.
Reserve Champion Steer: Emma Trabysh. Best Homegrown Steer: Aiden Homeniuk.
Three-year-old Cow/Calf Pair: First: Logan Brooke and Second - Luke Brooke.
Two-Year-old Cow/Calf Pair-First - Chase Forsyth and Second - Logan Brooke. Yearling Heifer: FirstCooper Axten and Second - Logan Brooke.
Supreme Female: Logan Brooke (Three-year-old pair).
Reserve Female: Cooper Axten (Yearling Heifer).
Best Homegrown Female: Chase Forsyth.
Prosperity Project - CONTINUED Below
Prosperity Project - CONTINUED from above
Achievement - CONTINUED from PAGE 9
Mitch Sylvestre. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Attendee Denis Pequin. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Vegreville Royal Canadian Legion Receives New HVAC Units
Estate of Barbara Anne Farrus who died on April 2, 2025.
If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by: June 27, 2025 with Olson Rau + Mohr Solicitor for the Personal Representative at #12, 6109 50th Avenue Vegreville, Alberta T9C 1N6 and provide details of your claim. If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.
VEGREVILLE & SURROUNDING AREA SURROUNDINGAREA WEATHER
The following subdivision application has been submitted to the Town of Vegreville Subdivision Authority for approval:
Subdivision Application File No. 25-162-004
PROPOSAL: To subdivide
An owner of adjacent land may make a written submission to the Subdivision Authority for it to consider when it makes its decision on a proposed plan of subdivision. Adjacent land means land which touches the parcel being subdivided, or which would touch the parcel if it were not separated from it by a highway, road, river, or stream. Any written submission must be received by Thursday, June 12th, 2025, by noon. Your submission should contain your name and mailing address; the location of land you own; and any comments you may wish to make.
For further information on subdivision application 25-162-004, please visit www.vegreville.com under the 'News' section on the homepage, or to provide your comments, contact:
Subdivision Authority
phant, which is amazing when you consider how tiny she is.
She has served on many different boards and hosted many different events over the years with calm and patience and grace, and continues to do so on a regular basis.”
Former Fort Saskatchewan RCMP Detachment Superintendent Barry
Larocque. “I want to talk about what missing from society and that is grace. It’s nice to see consistency and continuity in municipality and over 40 years, you’ve done that. In today’s world where fighting, difference of opinions is prevalent, always treated with respect, and more so, grace. So, I appreciate that on a personal level.”
New heating, ventilation and air conditioning units were installed on the rooftop of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 39 in Vegreville on May 26. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Unbreakable - CONTINUED from PAGE 2
Volunteers with Firefighter Aid Ukraine. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Unbreakable Ukraine Picture Show display. (Michelle Pinon/Photos)
