Vegreville News Advertiser - April 10, 2024

WHAT’S

it was parked in his driveway.

April 1

18:34 – Report of suspicious vehicle with three males on the side of the highway. Members attended but the vehicle and occupants were gone.

21:24 – Report of fireworks being shot behind St. Martin’s Church. Members attended but did not observe anything. Patrols were made which turned up negative.

April 2

11:31 – Report of a truck and trailer stolen from a work site in Vegreville. Truck is described as a White F250 2 door with a flat deck and a 20’ goose neck dump trailer attached. Vehicle added to the RCMP database and later recovered on a related file.

18:03 – Members attended the scene to assist EMS with a sudden death.

19:33 – Report of harassing communications. Under investigation.

April 3

- Report of a black truck in the ditch near RR 151 and TWP 534

09:53 – Report of suspicious people at a Vegreville business. The vehicle with two occupants (one male one female) were in the parking lot the night before for hours and were now parked at a neighbouring business. Vehicle described as a tan Chrysler Sebring with damage on the driver’s side, plastic on the drivers’ side window and one spare tire on the drivers’ side. Under investigation.

10:16 – Report that a company trailer which had been stolen was found in the ditch on RR 155. Members attended with the complainant. Nothing suitable for evidence was found and the complainant retrieved the trailer.

11:41 – Complainant reported that someone painted his vehicle blue the night before while

13:06 – Report of strange activity early in the morning near 56 Ave and 51 St in Vegreville. A multi-colored bicycle with an axe attached to it was left in front of a residence. The bike was brought to the detachment.

15:22 – Report of a stolen bicycle from a Vegreville retail business around 01:30. CCTV being reviewed. Under investigation.

15:34 – Wellbeing check requested for minors at a park who were unattended.

20:07 – Report of an assault.

April 4

08:38 – Report of an older male driving erratically. Driver was swerving, failed to stop at a 4-way intersection then was found parked on a sidewalk. Members located the vehicle and found the driver (86 yrs.) inside the house of a friend. Subject was driven home by a neighbour, family notified and a license review submitted.

10:41 – Suspicious vehicle blocking entrance of a business. The 2000 white Chevy Silverado with bald tires and doors screwed shut and had the front end jacked up. It had been there since the previous morning. Vehicle not reported stolen. Members attempted to contact the registered owner multiple times with no success. Vehicle towed.

14:26 – Report of a baggie of suspected narcotics found on the floor of a business. CCTV being reviewed. Ongoing investigation.

16:43 – After tenants left, landlord found two catalytic converters. Members responded and queried serial numbers which did not return results.

40:27 – Report of a Kenworth Semi stolen. The accused stated they had a bill of sale. Complainant indicated they would contact their lawyer regarding ownership. Possibly a

civil issue.

April 5

09:16 – Report of a white 4-door pickup truck with trailer entering the complainant’s property and proceeding to pull down a power pole with transformer and stealing it. Camera footage to be reviewed.

19:58 – Report of harassment and slander over social media. Ongoing investigation.

April 6

07:10 – Report of a vehicle driving on its rim. Members responded and arrested the subject who appeared to be impaired and was arrested for obstruction. Subject released with documents for court. Investigation ongoing.

22:43 – Report of a subject who came to the complainant’s home looking for someone who did not live there. They appeared under the influence. Members attended and spoke to the subject who agreed to leave. They walked to a family member’s house and the member spoke to a family member. The subject would stay there for the night.

During the week there were 70 calls for service made in total including: 2 false 911s, 0 false alarms, 1 animal strike, 3 relationship violence, 3 calls under the Mental Health Act or related to mental health, and approximately 12 tickets or warnings from traffic enforcement.

The RCMP encourages members of the community to contact them if they have any information on files listed in the Blotter.

Have questions about the blotter? Reach out to us at blotter@newsadvertiser.com and we will do our best to provide answers to your queries.

Royal Canadian Air Force Centennial

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

A Media Release from RCL Branch No. 39 stated, “To help celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Vegreville Branch of The Royal Canadian Legion has gone blue. The (RCAF), which officially turned 100-years-old on April 1 has requested as many Legion Branches, and public buildings to turn their exteriors blue in recognition of this significant milestone.

To date, over three hundred buildings in 20 countries have committed to be part of this project. In Canada well-known structures like the Alberta Legislature Buildings, the CN Tower in Toronto, the Montreal Tower, the Calgary Tower, Vancouver Sails of Light, and Niagara Falls are participating, not only in an attempt to set a Guinness World Record but to honour the (RCAF) and those who have served.

In World War I, Canadians served with the Royal Flying Corps, then the Royal Air Force. With the creation of a Canadian service, they continued to serve and set high benchmarks for other military organizations.”

Some of RCL Branch No. 39’s members served in the (RCAF). One such members is Veteran Chuck St. Clair, who resides on a farm five miles north of Ranfurly.

“My friend and I traveled down to London, Ontario and we saw the RCAF Recruiting Office so, we applied to join in September of 1952. I got in and he didn’t because I passed the entrance exam and he didn’t. Then

I went to Saint-Jean, Quebec for basic training and then to Camp Borden north of Toronto. I went from one station to another, six in total. I served in peacekeeping missions as an instrument technician for training command of jet aircraft during the Cold War era. I was stationed overseas in Germany. I served till March 1972.

When asked what the experience was like, “It was interesting. I learned a lot of things, saw a lot of things, and met a lot of people. I would recommend to other people to join the (RCAF) because you get a trade in the aviation field.

I was also a private pilot and the Commanding Officer for the 341 Mundare Royal Canadian Air Cadets. I taught them the theory of flight, the basic aircraft trades, and public affairs on how you should conduct yourself. I enjoyed this experience.

When the Air Cadets started, the original plan was to prepare the cadets for regular services in the (RCAF). Now, it is a lot different. But it is still good for young people to join because it teaches camaraderie.”

Another member of the Vegreville Branch who served in the (RCAF) is Joyce Stewart. She explained, “I served in the (RCAF) from 1960 to 1962. I started my service

with basic training in St. Jean, Quebec for 10 weeks. I was then posted to Aylmer, Ontario for trades training and spent five months there. At the end of my training, I was posted to Winnipeg where I was stationed until my release.

I

joined the RCAF because I was encouraged by my grandfather and I thought that it would give me an interesting and exciting career.

The best part was the camaraderie that I experienced and the travelling I was able to do. The worst were the double standards practiced between the men and women members and the lack of in-depth support for medical issues resulting from service-related injuries.

I would, and have, encouraged young people to join the (RCAF), and other branches of the military if that’s their choice. I still feel overall that it was a good career choice for me and would do it again. The military offers options for training and travel that are not available in most careers. They also open up leadership options earlier than most civilian choices.

Bigger cities, like Edmonton, have recruiting centers and a lot of information is available online. Having a good education that gives you a grounding in areas of interest is a big help. We’re fortunate to have an Air Cadet Squadron here in Vegreville that will provide a sampling of military protocols while teaching citizenship and leadership.

I’m proud that I was able to be part of this military organization during its first 100 years and still maintain a connection through the RCAF Association.”

RCL Branch No. 39 hall turns blue to honour RCAF 100th Anniversary. (Terry Kuzyk/Submitted Photo)

Chuck St. Clair and (inset) a certificate Chuck St. Clair received. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

RCAF Veteran Joyce Stewart. (Rosanne Fortier/File Photo)

Joyce Stewart when she was taking her basic training in 1960. (Submitted Photo)

90 Years

Ago – April 11, 1934

Unidentified persons entered the farm home of Magistrate Gore Hickman of Vegreville at Innisfree last week, while the house was vacant, awaiting the arrival of new tenants, and attempted to burn it down. Coal oil was sprinkled liberally about the house and on a pile of chips in the center of the floor. Fortunately, the dampness of the chips prevented the fire from getting underway.

Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Williams who have been farming south of Vegreville for a number of years, are returning this week to their old house in Wales. The best wishes for good luck of the Vegreville district go with them.

The town pound bylaw will be strictly enforced this year according to Councilor Neil Primrose, whose department covers that field of the town’s work. The police have been given instructions to run all animals found at large in the town into our Bastille for animals. Great will be the rejoicing on the part of those whose gardens are subject of have been subject to the predatory raids of 0our fourfooted friends, while those who happen to own the odd cow or horse will be warned by this notice.

75 Years Ago – April 13, 1949

The seismic crews who departed from Willingdon suddenly just before the ban went on the highway are expected back shortly. The prices that have been paid for some oil right leases in the district are decidedly hopeful.

Kicking up a lot of excitement and some smoke, a fire originating in the chimney of the hardware department of the Co-op Store called out the fire brigade for a short time on Friday last. It was soon brought under control, but not before the ceiling and roof suffered considerable damage.

On Friday the Andrew Locker Plant, owned and operated by Mr. Topolnitsky and Mr. Tomyn, was officially opened.

The grain-growing industry in Western Canada may have to be modified by the large-scale introduction of grass and legume crops. This is the view of Dr. E.S. Archiblad, director of the Dominion experimental farm service, in a paper that he has presented for study at the United Nations World Science Conference.

A creek in the Smoky River region north of Rocky Mountain House forest reserve has been named Strene Creek in honor of Flt. Lt. J. R. Strene, D.F.C. of Edmonton. Flt. Lt. Strene was reported missing in 1943.

50 Years Ago – April 11, 1974

This year, the Vegreville Figure Skating Club, again sponsored by the Kinsmen Club of Vegreville, attracted a huge audience with their performance which they called “Adventures of Pinocchio”. Last year’s queen Debbie Chrapko handed her title over to Pearl Sokolski sponsored by the Figure Skating Club, this year’s queen.

Vegreville Baton Students did very well at competitions in Sherwood Park. Georgina Tillapaugh received 1st in each of her three entries, Basic March, Military March, and Baton Solo; Jo-Ann Yaremcio entered the 10-year-old class, received 1st in her Solo, 2nd in Military and 3rd in the Basic March; 6-year-old Michelle Taback placed 2nd in the Basic March. Deserrie Ruptash placed 3rd in military, 3rd in Basic, and 4th in Solo for 12-year-olds. Joan-Marie Tarapacki, a 10-year-old class, came in 3rd in her Basic March, and in her Military March.

Alberta Powers’ Vegreville district is one of the company’s three major service areas. Has a new manager. Bud McEwen took over the duties of district manager on March 15th from Al Scholton who has held the position for 15 years.

25

Years Ago – April 13, 1999

The airport at Two Hills is not closed. County of Two Hills Reeve Pat Gordeyko told ratepayers Wednesday their plan is to get everything fixed up and maintain it. He said the county is going to reduce costs by decertifying the airport, but that doesn’t mean closure. Aria Yeske of Vegreville, the winner of $31,640.00 was the only winner in Alberta on April 6, 1999, in the Satellite Bingo game. Aria is the 5th Satellite winner at the Vegreville AlClub Bingo Hall. Sherrie Faas presented her with the check and a T-shirt.

Vegreville is officially out of the running for the new home of the Northern Lights Library System. Council received a reply to their request, during last night’s meeting.

Four teachers have been selected as finalists for the 1999 Excellence in Teaching Awards. Lorine Sweeney from the Innisfree Delnorte School, Michael Kischuk from the Lamont High School, Bernadine Donita Litwin from the Lamont Elementary School, and Sharon Pobuda from the Viking School are four of 128 finalists.

Another new business has opened in Two Hills called Dave’s Handyman Service. Owner, Dave Robinson is a licensed carpenter.

Research and the associated book by PhD Jonathan Haidt goes back much further. The key point in recent history states Haidt is the year 2010….when smartphones became mainstream. From that point to today, mental illness in the undergraduates studied saw a dramatic increase. ADHD rose 72 percent, depression 106 percent and anxiety 134 percent. He goes on to draw the connection between the decline of what earlier generations considered normal… going outside and playing, or a play-based childhood, and an increase of the phone-based childhood.

The study also showed that these trends were similar across the developed Western world where guardrails are not in place. Gen Z (those born after 1995) has been hit hardest, although Millennials (born 1981-1995) haven’t been entirely spared.

We see what should be considered “normal” all around us. Any nature video will show young mammals instinctively playing. Cats and dogs are the most obvious in our daily lives, but anyone on the farm will see young animals running and playing naturally. No training involved. Those born before 1980 only need to think back to their childhood.

I recently wrote about a study which is one of many being released which makes some people scratch their heads. “Risky Play” is one. Another was “Forest Bathing” which encourages people to…you guessed it. GO OUTSIDE and enjoy nature. You don’t need a full-blown forest. A park will do.

Recommendations by Jonathan Haidt are straight forward.

Give children far more time playing with other children. This play should ideally be outdoors, in mixed age groups, with little or no adult supervision (which is the way most parents grew up, at least until the 1980s).

Look for more ways to embed children in stable real-world communities. Online networks are not nearly as binding or satisfying.

Don’t give a smartphone as the first phone. Give a phone or watch that is specialized for communication, not for internetbased apps.

Don’t give a smartphone until high school. This is easy to do, if many of the child’s friends’ parents are doing the same thing.

Delay the opening of accounts on nearly all social media platforms until the beginning of high school (at least). This should be legislated with the age of “internet adulthood” from today’s 13 (with no verification) to 16 (with mandatory age verification).

The good news is, according to professionals, this trend can be reversed. It is incumbent upon decision makers and leaders to make the easy but possibly uncomfortable decision similar to that made in Florida.

This will require a concerted effort by all parties to free our young people from this debilitating trap they are in, but the health of our youth is worth it.

Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com

Save Our Penguin Campaign Launched in Innisfree

Two entrepreneurs have officially launched a campaign to help save a local a mascot in the Village of Innisfree.

Ernie the Cut Bank Penguin is a downsized reproduction of the 27 foot tall penguin statue in Cut Bank, Montana. Built by a Hollywood crew for the film ‘Cut Bank’ that was filmed in the community in 2013.

Located at the corner of Railway Avenue South and 50 Avenue, Ernie the Cut Bank Penguin was gifted to the Village of Innisfree and the roadside attraction has is in rough shape with holes and cracks in different places on the statue.

Curtis and Tammi Serben, owners of found GOODS CO., are raising funds to restore the statue that is comprised of a hard Styrofoam material that has been damaged by people trying to climb it as well as being subjected to the elements for over a decade.

The Serben’s moved to the area more than six years ago and have operated their business for over a year now. They sell antiques, restored furniture and curated books. The building that houses their business, dates back to 1936. It was also featured in the movie and hanging above the door on the inside is the sign from the movie set that says, Cut Bank Meats.

Just like the store they rehabilitated, they are hoping to do the same for the penguin. They launched their fundraising campaign on April 6 and Shirley Wonsik, owner of Mannville based iTax Business Solutions, was the first to contribute to the campaign by donating $100 to the cause.

Wonsik said she met the couple last summer. Shirley has always been community minded and organized a vintage bridal fashion show in Mannville last May, as well as a community market in Minburn last summer.

“I don’t think there’s anoth-

er mascot in Canada that’s a penguin,” said Shirley, who is hoping other businesses and community members get behind the campaign. Together they are organizing a vintage car show and open air market during the village wide garage sale in early May.

Curtis and Tammi are hoping at least $1,000 can be raised in order to purchase supplies for the penguin’s restoration and welcome anyone who can supply in-kind labour for the project.

Shirley Wonsik of iTax Business Solutions presented a $100 cheque to kick start the Save Our Penguin fundraising campaign to Curtis and Tammy Serben of found GOODS CO., in the Village of Innisfree. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Town of Vegreville Hosts MDP Open House

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Residents were given the opportunity to learn more and provide feedback about the Town of Vegreville’s proposed

Municipal Development Plan on April 5.

An open house was held at the Vegreville Centennial Library gymnasium that evening. Jamieson Brown, Manager of Community Engagement and Economic Development with the Town of Vegreville, stated that, “While only a handful of residents stopped by the open house on Wednesday, the response from the public was positive. The Town of Vegreville has also received three written submissions, added Brown.

In terms of where we go from here, on April 22, the document will go to Council for the first reading. It will then be advertised for two weeks. Following that, a public hearing will be held which is tentatively set for Monday, May 13 at 6:30 pm in Council Chambers. And finally, following that, it will once again go to Council for 2nd and 3rd readings.”

According to the Town of Vegreville, “The Town’s Municipal Development Plan (MDP) is the document that contains goals and policies that guide growth and change. It is a long-term vision that includes current and proposed land uses and servicing requirements. The goal is to create a community that has a variety of housing choices, a strong sense of community, and retain the natural environment while encouraging a diversified and vibrant economy.”

(MDP) is to provide clear direction to Vegreville’s Council and Administration in guiding growth and development. The MDP also informs residents, developers, and business owners of the direction that the Town has chosen for growth. The MDP provides the foundation for the Land Use Bylaw and other statutory plans. This Plan presents a vision, to be implemented through policies. The Plan has been written with goals that establish the vision of the Town and policies to focus on more specific issues. The character of existing and proposed land uses and servicing requirements are also addressed. The MDP is a land use strategy that informs the community of where future development may be located and the form it should take. The policies aim to create a community that:

• has an appropriate mix of land uses,

• a strong sense of community,

• respects the natural environment,

The draft MDP is a 29-page document. In the introduction it states, “The purpose of this Municipal Development Plan

• encourages a diversified and vibrant economy, to ensure Vegreville will continue to support a high quality of life. The MDP is a guide to land use and development decisions. It provides planning direction in a variety of areas, addresses growth and development challenges and the need to respond to future economic and social changes.”

Brown pointed out that, “A Municipal Development Plan is something all Alberta municipalities, no matter their population, must have according to the Municipal Government Act. This document addresses future land use within the municipality as well as the manner of and the proposals for future development. The Town of Vegreville’s MDP was last reviewed in 2012. Reviewing, and if need be, revising this plan regularly ensures it is kept up to date with a municipality’s growth and changes.

Attendees look over display during MDP Open House.

(Town of Vegreville/Submitted Photo)

Bylaw Officers Wearing Body Cameras

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Bylaw Officers in the Town of Vegreville are now outfitted with body cameras.

Members of town council signed off on the Body Worn Camera Policy at the March 26 regular meeting. According to the policy, Body Worn Cameras (BWC) will be worn by members of the Town of Vegreville Municipal Enforcement Department to enhance officer safety and support their enforcement duties.

It also noted that the Town of Vegreville, “will take reasonable steps to balance the privacy rights of individuals with the anticipated enforcement benefits of using the technology.”

The purpose of BWC is to:

• Re duce safety risks to officers working alone;

• Provide additional evidence;

• Au gment current note taking practices and improve evidence documentation

• Determine the accuracy of claims made by the public against officers;

• Help de-escalate and reduce potential conflicts; and

• Provide greater insight into service delivery and identifying good practice.

Jamieson Brown, Manager of Community Engagement & Economic Development, said, the total cost of the cameras was $419.97; one for each of the three staff members.

Amanda Mortensen Submitted

Dreams Do Come True

When asked to speak about a man that means so much too many, it is hard to put into words just what he means to everyone who meets him. He has done so much for so many people. My Grandpa is the hardest working, caring, trustworthy person. He had never gone to an NHL hockey game in his almost 92 years and my dad mentioned this to me, and I thought I knew everything about that man.

Well, I talked to my co-worker Lydia Pawluk about it. I mentioned that I was hoping to take my grandpa to an Oilers game if I won the bid in our silent auction and I told her why. Without moments pause she was in touch with Vision Credit Union’s Vice President Chelsea Bromley, and they got me tickets to take him to his very first NHL and Oilers game.

When I spoke with Grandpa that evening and told him, he was so happy, excited, and appreciative. Fast forward to that night and he was at my place early in the day and ready for the game. My best friend brought over her Oilers jersey for him to wear and we were off. We went in a snow blizzard. We were NOT missing that game!

We arrived safe and sound and he was completely overwhelmed by the crowds and noise. It was so loud. We stopped at the Oilers shop and picked him up a Jersey with his favorite players name (Hyman) on it. I will never forget his face when he realized he was getting his very first jersey. Then off to the gates to go through security and as I told him that he would

have to put his wallet in the basket, his face went white, and he had a scared look on his face. He always carries a pocketknife with him. He had that knife for 40 years of farming…. And I asked if I could run it back to the car and he said no, if they take it, they take it. He was just too nervous. So, we went through, and he handed his knife in and never saw it again. He was sad about that, but that all changed when we got to took seats. I took some prime photos and then we sat, and he got to see his boys play and he was even more excited because he saw Hyman play and Score.

During an intermission, a cameraman sat right next to us, and I looked at grandpa and said no better time than the present, and he told me to get his sign. So, I grabbed it out of my purse and the cameraman said I am going to put him on the jumbotron. The pictures I have don’t do it justice, but that moment from when the cameraman said get ready Clarence, to the crowd standing on their feet and the wave and roar was magnificent. The absolute joy and happiness on that man’s face will live in our hearts forever. Dreams do come true.

Clarence Smith. The man, the myth, the legend.

Amanda

Two days after the Town of Mundare council voted to send a letter to the federal Minister of Transport voicing concerns about stockpiles of railroad ties, Chief Administrative Officer Colin Zyla said he received an email from CN advising that arrangements have been made for the removal of the railroad ties, and that

they should be cleaned up by the end of April.

Councillor Irene Talaga previously brought forward the issue to members of council. Zyla put forward a request for decision at the March 19 meeting that was tabled until the April 2 meeting at which time Councillor Glen Rozumniak made a motion to send a letter. The motion was passed unanimously by council. (News Advertiser/File Photo)

Clarence Smith at his first NHL game in Edmonton on March 28.

(Amanda Mortensen/Submitted Photo)

Amanda Mortensen with her grandpa Clarence Smith. (Amanda Mortensen/Submitted Photo)

Clarence Smith with his favourite player’s jersey. (Amanda Mortensen/Submitted Photo)

Real Life Experience on the Family Farm

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Getting out in the real world used to be a place reserved following high school graduation. But now, thanks to Holden Rural Academy (HRA) and its focus on place based education, that real world work experience begins for students at the Grade 10 level.

Grade 10 student Cheyenne Suchy feels very fortunate to not only attend the school, but to be able to have her work experience placement on her family’s farm which is located only a mile and a half from the Village of Holden.

Cheyenne has been working for her father Mike since September, and is enjoying all of the new experiences and valuable day to day teachings that have been a part of the journey.

Cheyenne’s mom Nicole is a teacher at the school and she has a younger brother, Reece, who is currently in Grade 8 at HRA. In fact, all members of the family are involved in various facets of the business. An integral part of the family is Mike’s dad Otto, who resides on the farm he started with his late wife Rita back in 1979.

Mike vividly recalls driving the tractor that pulled the combine when he was a very young boy. “I was seven-years-old when I got my first combine. My son started combining when he was nine.” Mike spent 20 years with Strathcona County emergency services as a firefighter and a paramedic. During that time, he continued to work on the family farm and said he was fortunate enough to get the spring and fall off to help with seeding and harvest.

Mike retired two years ago and said it’s nice to be able to focus on farming fulltime. He said it’s also been nice to have an extra set of hands around to help with the cattle and other duties around the farm as they have 180 head of cattle and over 4,000 acres of land in the Holden, Ryley and Bruce areas to grow crops.

Cheyenne went solo combining for the first-time last fall and has vaccinated calves as well as a multitude of other chores since that time. Nicole does the book work and Cheyenne has also received instruction on different aspects of accounting and record keeping.

“Place based education helps so much,” said Cheyenne. “It’s helped me out a lot. To be able to obtain information and ask

questions of someone who already has experience has been really valuable. You can watch as many videos or read as much as you want, but you never get to fully experience it like place based education.”

She knows of several of her classmates who’ve discovered what they want to do as a career through work experience as well as learning what they don’t want to do. Cheyenne is not leaning towards a career in farming. Instead she’s hoping to get work experience in the field of pharmacy, and hopes to do work experience in that profession next school year.

Cheyenne also feels that having hands-on experience also gives students an advantage when it comes to further education and already having an understanding of the various aspects of a potential career before pursuing post-secondary education. Her advice to other students is to follow their interests to decide what type of work experience placement they would like. She also recommends finding things to keep busy during work experience when there are slower periods of work.

Mike, who sits on the HRA board, said the school has been really good at finding

we first began exploring setting up a charter school was to show them (students) there are opportunities in rural Alberta. You don’t have to go elsewhere. It also gives them the opportunity to stay close to family and their roots.”

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Mike and Cheyenne Suchy and a newborn calf on March 27. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

March 2nd District communications were held. Congratulations to Cooper Axten and Matthew for 1st place Junior presentation. Our awards night was held for the 2022-2023 year on March 10. Members attended District glow curling funspiel held in Mannville, and had a great day of fun. On March 24, members attended NE Beef Learning Event at Lakeland Collage. They were shown how to groom and clip there show steers and heifers, and got the opportunity to judge a pen of commercial heifers. It was a great afternoon of learning for everyone.

Members at club level communications event. (Vegreville 4-H Beef Club/Submitted Photo)

following day (April 7, 2018). Logan’s parents Bernadine and Toby Boulet offered to donate his organs so that six lives could live on. They did so because Logan had told his parents previous that he was registering as an organ donor and that he was inspired by his coach and mentor Ric Suggitt, who passed away on June 27, 2107. Suggitt was also an organ donor and save six lives.

The pysanka light up was initiated by Vegreville town council. Town Councillor Tina Warawa said she will never forget the moment she heard about the Humboldt bus crash as she was driving to the rink for a fun skate as her son’s team had won league championship the week prior to the tragedy.

“A week after the Humboldt tragedy, we actually had our year-end party and the boys took a picture on a set of stairs with their coaches, the banner and a plaque that said, “Hockey is family. Humboldt Strong.”

She went on to say, “The Humboldt crash was an unbelievable tragedy, but we can honour those players by never forgetting, appreciating each day and by considering being an organ donor.”

Jamieson Brown, Community Engagement & Economic Development Manager with the Town of Vegreville said, “This initiative was discussed at the March 19th Legislative Committee meeting.

The decision to light the Pysanka Green was made because of a request by Jan Clemis, a retired teacher from Taber, Alberta who hoped to create awareness for Green Shirt Day – which this year fell on Sunday, April 7…Clemis, who had personally experienced the gift of organ donation, having received a kidney from her son in 2018, also hoped the green lighting would draw attention to the importance of organ donation.”

Alberta First Pension Plan event

On April 2, 2024 I attended an Alberta First Pension Plan event at the Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville. The messaging indicated that the meeting would provide information about an Alberta pension program. There was a lot of information as well as some misinformation and a lot of trust put into actuary reports. The speaker suggested that there was a possibility of realizing a thousand dollars or more a year in pension. Is the risk of losing the security of CPP worth the gain of $90 per month?

The speaker could not provide details on who would administer the Alberta Pension Plan. This is very concerning. He did stress that there would be no government involvement. The speaker kept repeating that government be kept out of the pension

plan, and went as far as saying that the persons in charge should not be elected. If the people of Alberta are not electing those people in charge of the APP, then who and how will the administrators of the plan be chosen in a democratic society? This is unsettling. We are taking something secure and successful and possibly putting it into jeopardy. Obviously, not all the homework has been done.

We live in a democracy. I believe in democracy. I am not comfortable with anti-government rhetoric. Don’t touch my CPP! I am pleased with the way our pension money is handled. This plan has sustained us since 1966. I don’t want anyone fixing what is not broken. The risk is not worth the possible rewards. I hope that enough people feel like I do and will say “No”

to an Alberta Pension Plan. Concerned, Shirley Ewanchuk

Thanks for bringing your concerns to our readers Shirley. The issue of having an entity NOT elected and having no government involvement comes from the concerns of others.

The issue is a hypothetical scenario where pension funds are invested in something pro-government vs the best performing vehicle. Similar to the talk federally in recent months where there has been discussion around mandating the CPP to invest more in Canada vs what is providing the best returns. Also an attempt to “fix what is not broken.” We should be telling those people to keep their hands off the CPP in the same fashion. -AB

MEMORIAM

Colby William Coers

October 13, 1990 - April 16, 2017

Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard, but always near.

So loved, so missed, and so very dear.

Love is a bond that death cannot part.

Gone from our arms, but not from our hearts.

And although death leaves a heartache that no one can heal,

Know that love leaves wonderful memories that no one can steal. Forever in our hearts.

We take this special moment

To turn our thoughts to Len & Dad

To thank him for the home he gave, For all the things we had.

We think about the fleeting years

Too quickly, gone for good, It seems like only yesterday

We’d go back if we could.

A time when you were always there,

No matter what the weather,

Always strong when things went wrong

You held our lives together.

You strived so hard from day to day

And never once complained,

With steady hands you worked so hard

And keep the family name.

You taught us that hard work pays off

You reap just what you sow,

He said that if you tend your crops

Your field will overflow.

Our lives have been bountiful

You taught us how to give,

In your firm and steadfast way

You taught us how to live.

You dwell among the Angels now

You left us much too soon,

You glide across a golden field

Above the harvest moon.

We see you in the summer rain

He rides upon the wind,

And when our path is beaten down

He picks us up again.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed By Toni and Family

Love always

Mom, Dad Derek, Dina, Kayla And Families

HALABUT, John

In memory of a loving Dad and Gigi who entered

Eternal rest on April 12, 2007

We thought of you today

But that is nothing new

We thought of you yesterday

And will tomorrow too.

We think of you in silence

And make no outward show

For what it meant to lose you

Only those who love you know.

Remembering you is easy

We do it every day

It’s the heartache of losing you

That will never go away.

With love: Elaine & Randy; Jordon, Amy, Quinn, Blayke & Logan; Janelle, Wade, John & Jaycee

Michael Ray Jackson

Another year has passed since you unexpectedly left us for a safer place

Forever missed and never forgotten by mom and dad, Brother James (Leanne), sister Michelle (Doug), niece Rebecca, nephew Hayden, uncles, aunts and “hambone friends”.

Minister of Municipal Affairs Orders

Preliminary Review of Lamont County

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Alberta’s Minister of Municipal Affairs (MA) has deemed it necessary to have a preliminary review of Lamont County conducted into the concerns raised by a citizens’ petition.

In a March 28 letter addressed to petition representatives, Sada Gagnon and Sylvia Holowach, MA Minister Ric McIver stated that, “The preliminary review will help determine the underlying reasons for the request and ensure an appropriate response from Municipal Affairs. The process will provide context for my decision in responding to the petition and will include interviews with councillors, administrative staff and both of you as the petition representatives.

It is important to note the preliminary review is not a verification process and cannot result in formal directives. No written submissions or documents will be received and the preliminary review is a voluntary process. However, I encourage your full cooperation and participation to assist me in making an informed decision.

Once I review the findings of the preliminary review, I will advise you of what further steps, if any, will be taken.”

Stephanie Harrold, one of several Lamont County ratepayers who canvassed for signatures on the petition, responded to the Minister’s decision for a preliminary review by saying, “It was very rewarding to see that all our hard work paid off. We’re all staying positive moving forward and have faith in the process; that this will

result in a favourable outcome.”

Harrold said no timeline was given by the Ministry to complete the preliminary review. “It seems like these processes take time and that’s okay, no pain, no gain.”

McIver also pointed out in his letter that, “For a petition requesting a municipal inspection to be sufficient, the Municipal Government Act (MGA) requires signatures from electors equal to at least 20 percent of the population of the county.

The county population was 3,754 upon receipt of the petition; therefore, 751 valid signatures were required for the petition to be sufficient. A total of 903 signatures were received with the petition, and 844 of those signatures were confirmed as valid. As a result, the petition has been deemed to be sufficient.”

The News Advertiser requested a comment from Lamont County about the Minister’s decision to proceed with a preliminary review. Communications Coordinator Jay Zaal stated, “Lamont County received a letter from the Minister related to the request for Municipal Inspection. While the petition has been deemed to be sufficient, prior to making any final decision on the request for an inspection, Minister McIver has asked ministry staff to conduct a preliminary review into the concerns raised by the petitioners. Lamont County Council and Administration is fully cooperating with ministry staff as required to allow them to complete the preliminary review. All next steps are with the Minister’s office.”

Treasure Hunting Season Begins

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Many people visited the first garage sale of the season in Vegreville from April 4 to 6.

This sale had everything a person could want or need and there were many boxes of items people could get items for free.

The person hosting the sale Lori Farr explained, “I wanted to have this garage/estate sale in memory of my father Leroy Close who passed away this past January. Dad was in town for over 50 years. He used to be the Manager of the Vegreville and District Co-op and knew a lot of people. So, this is a way to get to visit with people from the community and to let them have a chance to enjoy some of my father’s possessions.

The sale has been really busy. What doesn’t sell, we plan to donate to an organization for people who need stuff.”

A customer Kyle Craig said he moved to Vegreville two weeks ago and was impressed with this sale as everything was so clean. “This sale is a lifesaver for me because it is helping me to gather stuff for my place.”

A shopper Antoinette Fortier said she was excited about garage sale season happening again because a person can find some unique gems. “There will be garage sales shortly. Watch for ads in the newspaper!”

People enjoying the sale. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Cystic Fibrosis ‘New Normal’ for Chipman Family

Johnnie Lesoway was only 10 days old when Jocelyn and her husband received a phone call from their family physician that Johnnie’s newborn screening flagged positive for Cystic Fibrosis (CF).

That phone call came on Dec. 22, 2022. They were asked to head to the Stollery Children’s Hospital that afternoon to meet with clinic staff before they closed for Christmas holidays. “What a shock for everyone! We didn’t know anything about CF, except that it was scary…We had no idea that we had the CF gene in either of our families.

I remember arriving to the CF clinic, like it was a dream. The clinic staff admiring our sweet new baby boy. They prepared us for the realities of raising a child with CF, and assured us that thanks to advancements in modern medicine we will be saving money for Johnnie’s college fund, not a funeral.”

They were informed about a new breakthrough medication that has been changing the lives of those affected by CF, and that Johnnie would qualify for it when he turns two-years-old. He was prescribed digestive enzymes to be given with feeds due to pancreatic insufficiency. Jocelyn explained that,

Lesoway family in December of 2023.

(Jocelyn Lesoway/Submitted Photo)

“Without enzymes, his body won’t absorb nutrients and digest properly. This will likely be a lifelong medication.”

Additionally, Jocelyn said chest physiotherapy was added to their daily regime when Johnnie was twomonths-old. “This consists of two, 20-minute sessions of chest percussions a day. It is performed to break up mucus in his lungs.”

She noted that, “Once there is any sign of illness in our house, we increase the treatments to four times daily. The thick mucus in his lungs can keep germs lingering around longer than people without CF. Exercise is also important to keeping Johnnie’s lungs healthy.”

While young Johnnie doesn’t let CF get in his way of living, Jocelyn admits, “CF has become the new normal in our lives. Being a parent to a child with CF comes with a lot of mixed emotions. It’s like a dance between gratitude and grief. Grief for the lives taken by this tragic disease. Gratitude for those who have fought in the past and those who continue to fight for a cure.

There is so much more research and work to do. Fundraising is such an important aspect of the CF community; so is awareness. They say it takes a village and I intend to grow Johnnie’s Village as much as I can.”

Jocelyn and her family participated in the CF walk last spring and they are raising money once again this year with a goal of $5,000 with proceeds going to the CF Chapter of Edmonton and Northern Alberta.

Palm Sunday Passion Presentation

Processional hymn.

Later, an impressive performance by the Children’s Choir was presented.

is magic!”

Coordinator Colleen Albert explained, “We hosted this event because Easter is the most important Christian holiday. So, we wanted to kick off Holy Week with a celebration of the passion story, from the triumphant entrance into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, through to the Last Supper, the suffering and death of Christ, and the victorious resurrection of Jesus on Easter morning.

This gathering provided a great opportunity for people from various denominations to join together in unity to present the gospel story. We hope that the beautiful music, narrations, and congregational singing helped the attendees to begin Holy Week with their focus on Jesus Christ and His great love for all people.”

For this presentation, the narrators were Pastor Greg Kjos, Becky Yurko and Paul Ziprick.

Around 60 attendees enjoyed this event which captured the perfect introduction to Holy Week with heartmelting musical performances hosted at St. John’s Lutheran Church (SJLC) on March 23.

SJLC Pastor Greg Kjos welcomed everyone and said that this presentation was meant to ponder the life, death and resurrection of Jesus from Palm Sunday to Easter. Next was the narration of a bible reading which was followed by Colleen Albert leading in a Congregational

After this were more narrations which were followed by a smooth transition of the Adult Choir performing a moving music piece that touched a person’s soul.

Adult Choir member Hugh Ziprick said he felt blessed to be joined by other singers in the community. “We practiced for two months, one night a week for an hour and a half.

There is nothing like singing in the choir! You sing for the one part of music where everyone gets it right. That

The piano accompanist was Viola Braun-Fox. Lisa Topilko was the flute accompaniment, singer and guest conductor. Colleen Albert also performed a piano solo and was a piano accompaniment as well as a co-conductor. The Children’s Choir was composed of members of Vegreville Youth Ensemble and St. John’s Lutheran Church Sunday School.

The Adult Choir members were: Emily Booth, Debbie Fedoruk, Julie Kim, Becky Yurko, Anastasia Zadolia, and Linda Ziprick, Elizabeth Nawrot, Julie Thompson, Lisa Topilko, Ashley Ziprick, Nigel Albert, Tim Nawrot, Hugh Ziprick, Bryan Butler, Derek Fox and Ken Timanson.

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Standing are members of Children’s Choir performing. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Johnnie Lesoway. (Jocelyn Lesoway/Submitted Photo)

Johnnie Lesoway. (Jocelyn Lesoway/Submitted Photo)

Johnnie’s banner from the 2023 CF Walk. (Jocelyn Lesoway/Submitted Photo)

Saints Initiation Sports Camp

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Holidays can be a time to learn fun skills.

Students discovered how to play different sports during Spring Break when St. Mary’s Catholic Athletics Club hosted an initiation camp at St. Mary’s Catholic High School.

St. Mary’s Catholic High School Teacher Jacqueline Stuart said, “The idea of the camp came from one of our students last year as a way to support the athletics program at St. Mary’s. Parent volunteer Neila Nelsen took the lead in making the camp a reality this school year. Together, Neila and I planned and organized the camp, including trying to determine the skills that campers would be working on.

During the camp, we were there to help St. Mary’s athletes in their roles as coaches and provided help to the campers as well. There were 37 campers ranging from Grades one to six who were all students from St. Martin’s Catholic Elementary School. Campers attended anywhere from one to all four days.

The purpose of the camp was to introduce the campers to fundamental skills in volleyball, basketball, and track and field, hoping it would result in more students trying out for teams when they are in junior high.”

Stuart noted that, “Our student coaches explained the skills and provided feedback in drills for campers to improve. There was a combination of drills, challenges, and games to practice the skills. In volleyball, they worked on passing, setting, serving, and hitting. For basketball, they worked on ball handling, passing, and shooting. For track and field, campers were introduced to running, discus, javelin, shot put, long jump, high jump, and hurdles.”

When questioned about what they gained from participating, Stuart remarked, “The camp was an opportunity for the campers to learn some basics and give them things to work on independently. Hopefully, it will also help them to be confident to try out for teams in the future. We also hope that the camp gave the campers new interests in sports they may not have tried before.”

the campers in just three days of learning. It was also really great to meet students at our elementary school. The athletes stepped up and were amazing coaches and worked well with the campers, which was great to watch them step into such a leadership role.

7-DAY WEATHER

Stuart closed by saying, “Some of the highlights included seeing the growth and skill development of

As well, Collette Miller from Wilde Advisory Group donated pizza for the campers, coaches and adult helpers for one day.”

Government of Alberta Creates Two Organizations for Mental Health and Addiction

Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk MLA for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville

This position would perform a variety of road maintenance duties including gravelling, paving and asphalt, crack sealing, spray patch, sign maintenance and other related work. Working with hand and power tools and some machinery. These are seasonal union (AUPE) positions Student's welcome, training provided Must pass a pre-employment drug screening

Alberta’s government is creating two new organizations to support the development of the mental health and addiction system of care. For the past five years, our province has been building the Alberta Recovery Model to support those facing addiction or mental health challenges in their pursuit of recovery. To continue this work while refocusing our province’s healthcare system, our government will establish two new mental health and addiction organizations, Recovery Alberta and the Canadian Centre of Recovery Excellence (CoRE).

CoRE will support Alberta’s government in improving the mental health and addiction system by researching best practices for recovery from around the world, analyzing data, and making evidence-based recommendations. The

development of these two organizations will move our province further ahead as a leader in supporting people in their pursuit of recovery.

To encourage Albertans who are interested in a future of construction, Alberta’s government supports Trade Pathways, an Alberta Construction Association employment program. Trade Pathways helps grow Alberta’s skilled workforce by helping young, unemployed, underemployed, and underrepresented communities overcome barriers to begin a career in construction

On April 1, our government proudly celebrated 100 years of bravery and courage in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). For a century, the men and women of the RCAF have been defending our peace and freedom, both at home and abroad. For this, we can never thank them enough.

A group photo of the organizers and participants. (Neila Nelsen/Submitted Photo)

Participants trying out different sports. (Neila Nelsen/Submitted Photos)