Vegreville News Advertiser - January 06, 2016

VOL. 69 NO. 1

66 YEARS OF SERVING THE COMMUNITY

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2016

Vegreville’s Country 106.5 FM is on air

Country 106.5 FM Station Manager Jamieson Brown counts down the seconds before switching from test phase to a live feed on January 4 as the local radio station went on air for the first time. Check out the first few minutes of the live broadcast on the News Advertiser’s Facebook page, facebook.com/Vegreville. (Michael Simpson/Photo)

See story on page 5

We recap the top stories of 2015 Beginning on page 7

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Vegreville RCMP Files from Dec. 24 to 30 Michael Simpson Editor Dec 24 12:38 p.m. A report of an abandoned vehicle parked on highway 16 at the 855 intersection. The truck had broken down and the owner will have it removed.

12:41 p.m. A report comes in of an overnight theft of Christmas lights. The caller is not able to shed light on any suspects.

4:06 p.m. A 911 report of a motor vehicle in the ditch along highway 16. Driver reported the incident himself, believing that after having a warm bath and taking a long drive had caused him to fall asleep and drive into the median. The vehicle was removed from the ditch, and now fully awake from digging himself out in the cold, the driver promised to grab a coffee and continue on his way.

4:18 p.m. A report of a suicidal female. Alcohol is a factor.

Members attend and the subject agreed to go to the hospital.

4:23 p.m. A 911 call of a suspicious vehicle driving around in back alleys. A patrol is made but the vehicle is not located.

No license plate was obtained by the caller.

5:27 p.m. A request comes in to do a welfare check on a resident. Police attend and confirm the individual in question is fine. The individual simply did not want contact with her family and wasn’t returning calls.

10:44 p.m. A report of a female who allegedly took a bunch of pills. She is located and EMS transport her to the hospital.

Dec 25 7:37 a.m. A report of an unoccupied 2-storey house fire in the rural area west of Vegreville. Police believe the blaze is the result of arson and the matter is still under investigation.

8:12 a.m. Someone complains of an individual uttering threats earlier that day. Police make contact with the complainant and determine that the threats made were substantial in nature. Charges are pending.

10:30 a.m. A report of a male who is off his medications and hasn’t slept in days. Members attend and give the man a ride to the hospital for assessment. A family member assumes care from this point forward.

11:01 a.m. A report of a theft from a vehicle. Police detect no signs of forced entry and have no suspects or witnesses. The matter is still under investigation.

1:55 p.m. Another vehicle theft call comes in. A number of items are taken including a purse, house keys, credit cards and a number of personal identification items such as driver’s license and social insurance card. The owner is unsure if the vehicle was locked or not.

6:52 p.m. A report of suspicious males on someone’s residential property. Members attend but locate no one.

8:08 p.m. A report of domestic disturbance. Alcohol is a factor. No evidence to claims of an assault. The parties are separated for the night.

11:17 p.m. A 911 report of another domestic argument. Police arrest one individual and lodge her in cells until sober.

Dec 26 1:22 a.m. A third-party complaint of a suicidal male. Members locate the man and apprehend him under the mental health act. He is taken to the hospital and assessed, then released in the care of his parents.

2:00 p.m. A report of a male riding a bike who is almost hit by a motorist. The cyclist is angry, but members warn him to operate his bicycle in a safe manner as he was at fault.

5:45 p.m. Report of a semi driving with no headlights along highway 16. Members are unable to locate the semi.

11:29 p.m. A report of a domestic dispute. A couple that had been arguing all day are consequently separated for the night by police.

Dec 27 5:47 a.m. A report of a theft as a result of a break and enter.

A man’s television is missing. The matter is still under investigation.

6:15 a.m. A man is repeatedly calling and harassing one of

JANUARY 6, 2016

his female acquaintances. Police advise him to cease with the harassing phone calls or he will be charged.

10:39 a.m. A custody disagreement is resolved by police and children are allowed to go to one parent’s residence.

1:04 p.m. A report of mischief comes in where someone has placed nails on another person’s driveway. The matter is under investigation.

3:44 p.m. A report of a suspicious person on a rural property turns out to be area residents collecting dead wood for a fire.

3:54 p.m. A report of overnight damage to a vehicle. Police have no witnesses or suspects.

5:56 p.m. A third party report of a suicidal male comes in.

The man is later found at 6:40 when members respond to another call of an intoxicated man passed out on a sidewalk, who turns out to be the same man from the earlier call. The man is transported to the hospital.

8:32 p.m. Alberta Sheriffs stop a speeding vehicle on highway 16 near Mundare and discover open liquor. A local member attends with a roadside screening device and the driver, who has a graduated driver’s license, blows a caution and has his license suspended for 30 days and the vehicle seized for 7 days.

8:38 p.m. An anonymous caller reports a male is driving while suspended. A patrol is made but the vehicle is not located. No license plate was provided.

Dec 28 1:12 p.m. An apartment manager is clearing out an apartment and discovers a quantity of driver’s licenses, credit and debit cards and more belonging to multiple individuals. Police attend and the matter is under investigation.

1:35 p.m. A report of a stolen wallet and phone comes in. The caller’s credit card was subsequently used and the matter is under investigation.

2:44 p.m. A report of theft from a motor vehicle. Money is taken, along with some personal papers. The matter is under investigation.

2:45 p.m. A report of a motor vehicle collision in Mundare.

Someone backed into another vehicle.

3:08 p.m. An attempt at fraud. Someone is called by a man claiming to be an agent of a visa company. A credit card number is mistakenly given out, and afterwards the victim realizes she’s been duped. She cancels her credit card immediately.

10:19 p.m. A license plate is stolen from a car in town. The caller isn’t sure when the theft occurred.

Dec 29 12:50 p.m. Another case of theft from a vehicle. Some personal papers are taken.

1:39 p.m. A custody issue sees police acting as mediators to reach an agreement between parents regarding access.

2:11 p.m. A request to locate from an out of town caller attempting to make contact with his father. The father is located, and had lost his phone. He has since acquired a new one.

2:46 p.m. A report of a suspicious vehicle at the intersection of hwy 855 and twp 540. A patrol is made, but the vehicle is gone. No license plate was acquired.

4:48 p.m. A call of damage to property turns out to be a case of a driver who had hit a fence on a rural property. The motorist had left a note explaining the incident and made promises of reparations. A civil agreement is reached and the parties will handle the matter themselves.

6:50 p.m. A report of a break and enter to a residence. A window was smashed to gain entry. Someone rummaged through the residents’ personal belongings.

Dec 30 9:25 a.m. A tree on someone’s property is driven over by a vehicle in town. There are no witnesses and the matter is under investigation.

11:42 a.m. A third-party call of a suicidal female. She is located at a local drinking establishment and transported to hospital for assessment.

Police responded to 7 false alarms, 2 false 911 calls out of 65 calls for service during this period.

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Bandits rob Rangers as season resumes Michael Simpson Editor The first game back for the Vegreville Jr. B Rangers left the team feeling like they’d been robbed of a victory that should have been theirs, Rangers coach Randy Rook said. “We outplayed, outshot, out-chanced; we just didn’t outscore,” Rook said after the Rangers were defeated in Lloydminster on January 2. Though Ranger Zak Lang scored first for the Rangers, and the team

outshot the defending Lloyd Bandits, it was still a 3-2 win for the home team.

Rook felt the score should have been higher in Vegreville’s favour. “[There were] two points that their goalie stole from us. Sooner or later we have to start getting the bounces. It’s been the story all year but the boys need to find a way to get the puck in the net.” The Rangers went scoreless in the second period while Lloyd added two points to the board, pulling ahead after tying the Rangers up in the first period. Ranger Corey Falconer would get the Rangers second and final goal late in the third period.

Despite the loss, Rook still had praise for his team. “Jesse Budinsky had his strongest game and was f lying out there, and he can consistently perform like that, this team becomes that much faster.

Towards the playoffs, I’m looking at adding a couple pieces to this team to hopefully shore up some holes,” Rook said.

Smile of the

WEEK

Name: Georgie White Occupation: yoga teacher Likes: my little dog, Copper John, traveling.

Dislikes: junk food, negativity

JANUARY 6, 2016

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Vegreville’s Country 106.5 FM is on air

Vegreville Mayor Myron Hayduk and Chamber of Commerce General Manager Elaine Kucher presented station owners Melanie and Brian Hepp with congratulatory gifts after the station went live.

(Michael Simpson/Photo)

Michael Simpson Editor It’s been a few months of patiently waiting and sorting out the technical stuff that comes with opening a new radio station, but Vegreville’s Country 106.5 FM officially moved from test phase to on-air on January 4 at 1:06 p.m., kicked off with Station Manager Jamieson Brown behind the mic and with station owners Brian and Melanie Hepp there to speak to listeners. “Country 106.5 and wow, does it feel good to say that,” Brown said as the feed went live. “I appreciate your patience in waiting for this moment, it means the world to us,” he said to listeners. There was an emotional moment before going to break as Jamieson paid homage to the man behind Country 106.5 FM’s imaging and setup, Brian Stephenson, who has been a leader for the Hepp’s radio stations based out of Olds and is currently battling health issues.

Owners Brian and Melanie Hepp were pleased to be on hand for their newest station, having opened 96.5 CKFM All Hit Country in 2004 and Rock 104.5 FM shortly after in Olds, Alberta. “We’re thrilled to have the radio on the air, it’s been awhile in the making,” Brian said after the first broadcast was completed. “We’re looking forward to being the local radio. We have an open door policy within our stations where are listeners are welcome to tell us what they think because we look at our radio stations as belonging to the community.”

Country 106.5 FM has a 30 mile radius with Vegreville as the hub. Already the station has seen local support from the community and plans to be deeply involved in what’s going on in the area.

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FROM THE PAGES OF THE VEGREVILLE OBSERVER

COMPILED BY DAN BEAUDETTE

90 Years Ago – January 6, 1926 The Board of Trade meet and C. Gordon brought up the matter of a reported shortage of cars for moving grain. Mr. Lister advised that requirements had since been amply met, and further that a total of 500 cars had been supplied here during the present grain season as against 395 during the same period of last year.

Also at the same meeting Mr. Scott brought up the matter of lack of supervision and proper accommodation on the public Market place, referring to loses occurring through theft from vehicles left there. He also thought sheds should be maintained on the Market.

Mayor Fraser stated that this was a matter to be considered by the Town Council at the time of adoption estimates during the present year. Mr. Dutka submitted that provision for any such accommodation would be competing with feed stables already privately established for that purpose.

By 1927 the Alberta Government hopes to complete its present main highway program calling for an expenditure of $3,500,000.00 by which a total grant of $1,500,000.00 will have been earned from the Federal highway fund.

75 Years Ago – January 8, 1941 Contractor Elmer Wilson and his crew continue with improvements to the Alberta Hotel. The second and third floors of the hotel have recently been paneled in keeping with the ground floors finish. The ceiling of the dining room and the rotunda are being renewed with patterned Dona-Cona making a very attractive finish. This work practically complete the entire renovation of the whole building which puts it in better than average shape, of hotels in towns of similar size of Vegreville.

Appointment of Peter Wyllie, district agriculturist, with headquarters at Thorsby, to the post of acting director of sheep and swine promotion, was announced Wednesday, by Hon. D. Bruce MacMillan, minister of agriculture. His appointment to this post was necessitated through the absence of G. S. Black, sheep and swine promotor, who is now in the R.C.A.F. Mr. Black held this post from 1938 until his enlistment in October.

Edmonton Exhibition Association reports a surplus of $10,301, despite the loss of the usual federal grant for the year 1940, and the actual surplus now stands at $69,559, said Percy W. Abbott, K.C. managing director at the year end meeting of shareholders.

50 Years Ago – January 6, 1966 John Koshuta, a prominent Vegreville lawyer has been honoured by being appointed Queen’s Council. Mr. Koshusta’s appointment was included in the list of thirty such appointments for Alberta announced on January 1st. A native of Beauvallon, Alberta, Mr. Koshuta graduated from the University of Alberta in Arts in 1943, receiving his law degree a year later from the same University.

Following graduation in law, he went into the army, remaining with the armed forces until January of 1946. Following his discharge, he came to Vegreville and articled with J.N. Decore, now Chief Judge of the District Court for Northern Alberta, until he was admitted to the bar in March of 1947. He formed a partnership the same year with Judge Decore under the name of Decore and Koshuta. He has since formed another company and is now senior partner of the firm of Koshuta and Kawylych.

Questionnaires from Vegreville Public School authorities were sent to town residents on Tuesday to ascertain possible accommodation for rural children in case weather makes district roads impossible. The questionnaire (one to a family) asks simply how many children the household could provide accommodation for if weather conditions prevent the operation of school buses.

25 Years Ago – January 2, 1991 The County will proceed in early 1991 to renovate the courthouse as a county administration building. The furnishings a the Vegreville Courthouse were moved out on the weekend to make room for the new County of Minburn administration offices.

Vegreville’s Dellas Kully made a great impression on the Vermilion and District Chamber of Commerce. Kully is one of nine secondyear interior design students at the Vermilion campus of Lakeland College who were invited to submit designs for the Chamber’s new building. The students spent over one month working on the class assignment.

The town of Lamont and the village of Holden were two of 46 communities which received plaques in the first half of 1990 for their involvement in developing a Community Tourism Action Plan.

4-H Leadership Awards were presented at the northeast region’s award banquet held on December 1st to Dorine Kuzma, Dennis Babiuk, Raliegh Kett, Beatrice Gamache and Andrea Badiuk.

The Alberta Motor Association has provided directional signs at rural and secondary roadway intersections for many years as a public service and has requested the County of Minburn to review the locations where more signs might be needed.

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. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to withhold letters from publication.

Whac-a-Mole Sexual Slavery Gwynne Dyer There is an old fairground game called Whac-a-Mole. You whack a (fake) mole on the head and drive it down into its hole – and instantly one or more other moles pop up out of other holes. It’s an excellent metaphor for humanity’s inability to abolish sexual slavery.

This week, we had a full apology by the Japanese government for the enslavement of up to 200,000 young “comfort women” from countries conquered by Japan to provide sexual “comfort” to Japanese soldiers during the Second World War. The apology was a bit late (the 46 surviving Korean “comfort women” are all over 80 now), but the mole was well and truly whacked. Except that in another part of the garden, another mole immediately poked his head out of the ground.

This time it was Islamic State. On Tuesday, Reuters published captured IS documents including Fatwa No. 64, dated 29 January of this year, which purports to explain the Islamic rules on who may rape a nonMuslim female

slave.

An owner may rape his female slaves, of course, but he may not rape both a mother and her daughter. Similarly, a slave-owning father and son may not both rape the same enslaved woman. And business partners who jointly own a slave may not both rape her. That would be almost incestuous.

Islamic scholars like Professor Abdel Fattah Alawari of Al-Azhar University in Cairo, rushed to point out that Islamic State was deliberately misreading verses and sayings that were originally designed to end slavery.

“Islam preaches freedom to slaves, not slavery,” Alawari said. “Slavery was the status quo when Islam came around. Judaism, Christianity, Greek, Roman, and Persian civilizations all practiced it and took the females of their enemies as sex slaves. So Islam found this abhorrent practice and worked to gradually remove it.” Well, maybe, but very, very gradually.

Islamic law forbids the enslavement of Muslims, but all that did was to encourage a roaring trade in the enslavement of non-Muslims that lasted for over a thousand years. And it reached a very long way: when I was growing up in Newfoundand, we learned in school about the “Sally Rovers”, Muslim pirates from Morocco who raided villages on t he

Newfoundland coast for slaves until well into the 18th century.

Slavery was replaced by serfdom in the Christian West by the year 1000, but as soon as a demand for actual slave labour re-appeared, with the European conquest of the Americas in the 16th century, the Europeans began to buy slaves from Africa – as the Islamic empires of the Middle East and India had been doing all along.

The longest-lasting source of slaves for the Muslim world was the African trade, which lasted from the 9th to the 19th century. Between 10 and 18 million Africans were sold in this thousand-year trade – about as many as were exported by the Europeans in the 250 years of the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

Neither the European empires nor the great Muslim states ended slavery until the 19th century, so there is plenty of blame to go around. But there is one striking difference. The European slavers took two or three African males for every female, because they wanted a work-force for commercial agricuture.

The Muslim slavers, by contrast, took more women than men, because there was a big demand for women as sex slaves, and little demand for agricultural workers.

The Muslim world does have a particular history in the question of sexual slavery, and therefore a particular duty to condemn and fight against the odious doctrinal claims of the Islamic State fanatics.

Gwynne Dyer is an independent journalist whose articles are published in 45 countries.

JANUARY 6, 2016

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Syrian Refugees: the story that never happened Michael Simpson Editor When it appeared that Vegreville was due for a shipment of 166 Syrian refugees in December of 2015, more than a few eyebrows were raised in town. The information appeared on the federal government’s immigration website for a few weeks, prompting calls to Immigration Canada.

One day in mid-December, Vegreville’s name disappeared from the list of communities hosting refugees without explanation. Just before the end of 2015, the explanation as to why finally came. As the Town has a Case Processing Center which processes applications for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Vegreville was therefore being used as a temporary placeholder for the final destination of a number of privately sponsored refugee cases until final destinations for those refugees were confirmed, said a spokeswoman for the federal government.

Once the final destinations were verified, the map was updated and Vegreville dropped from the list.

In Alberta, the communities with the top three levels of applications to privately sponsor refugees were Calgary (503), Edmonton (329), and Lethbridge with 15 applications. It is estimated that roughly half of the refugees arriving from Syria are Christian refugees fleeing religious persecution from ISIS. In many cases of private sponsorship, it is Christian organizations that are sponsoring individuals and families to come over to escape the war-torn country.

Vegreville’s voice in the House of Commons, Conservative MP Shannon Stubbs, said there has been an ongoing effort in the Lakeland riding to offer assistance to victims of ISIS fighting. “I know of a number of families, community organizations and churches in Lakeland who have been active for several months, working together to help refugees from the war torn regions being terrorized by ISIS,” she said. “Our position remains that Canadians can and should provide refuge for vulnerable, innocent people fleeing from ISIS controlled regions.”

Stubbs cautioned however, that the security of Canadians must come first. “Our government’s highest priority in the process must be to ensure the safety and security of Canadians.” According to Immigration Canada’s website, “as of September 19, 2015, the Government of Canada has temporarily exempted Syrians and Iraqis fleeing the current conflict from the requirement to provide proof of refugee status in order to be sponsored,” the site reads: “This means that a group of five or community sponsor can submit an application without a document proving recognized refugee status.”

Stubbs said the current government needs to come up with a plan.

Previously, the Harper government had already settled 25,000 refugees. Stubbs called on the Liberals to “provide a clear and comprehensive plan regarding refugee resettlement in Canada that prioritizes robust screening and verification to ensure the safety and security of Canadians, and accounts for resources required for health screening, health care and social services, housing, and integration plans.”

Stubbs also released a statement on her Facebook page on Nov. 24 outlining the conservative outlook on refugees and sponsorship.

Stubbs notes that

The Honourable Michelle Rempel, Official Opposition Critic for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, said Canada should continue to back its Allies in their fight against ISIS. “We believe it is also imperative that Canada stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies in the mission to degrade ISIS,” Rempel said. “We continue to call on the Liberal government to reverse its position and ensure the Royal Canadian Air Force remains engaged in the fight against ISIS.” Community organizations can also sponsor refugees. In both cases, the sponsors must agree to give financial and emotional support to the refugee(s) they sponsor for a period of one year. In order to privately sponsor a refugee, applicants commit to helping refugees find suitable living accommodations, help them learn English, find a job and integrate into the social network of their community, and learn about Canadian values.

Through the Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP), government assisted refugees receive basic supports such as temporary housing, help finding permanent housing, assistance registering for mandatory Federal and Provincial programs, and community orientations. A culture session on Canada’s laws, customs and public services like healthcare and transportation is also given.

One-time startup allowances or monthly income support payments may be approved in cases as well, for those who cannot pay for their own basic needs. The rates are in step with provincial social assistance rates, and the financial support can last up to one year after a refugee arrives in Canada, or until that refugee has become self-sustaining.

In all cases, privately sponsored refugees receive help from their sponsors, and arrive with the status of “private resident” which entitles them to the same types of services and supports as other permanent residents have access to.

The applicants for sponsorships are already residents of Canada. This entitles them to identify refugees for sponsorship and request processing through Winnipeg’s centralized immigration office. During the process these refugees are interviewed by a Canadian visa officer.

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Veg Ag Society wins Century Award

The Honourable Verlyn Olson, Minister of Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, presented Past President Daryl Cole of the Vegreville Agricultural Society with the Alberta Agricultural Society Century Award at the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies Convention in Edmonton on February 6, 2015. The Veg Ag Society’s roots took hold as the Vermilion Valley and Beaver Lake Agricultural Society in 1903. In 1924 the name changed to the Vegreville Exhibition Association Ltd. which in 1983 evolved into the Vegreville Agricultural Society. (Photo Submitted)

Vegreville travelers return safe from Paris Michael Simpson Editor A group of Vegreville residents have safely returned home without harm after narrowly missing being caught up in the violent wave of attacks that swept through Paris, France, on Friday, Nov. 13. In nine separate incidents, gunmen opened fire in restaurants or detonated suicide vests, killing themselves and bystanders. Authorities have the death toll at 129 people, with 433 injured.

Shawn Warrington arrived home safely on Sunday morning with several others, happy to be back on Canadian soil. Warrington said the group’s fate could have been much different on Friday night. “We had initially considered going to the soccer game rather than the dinner cruise but opted to not change our plans,” Warrington said. “We were on the evening dinner cruise on the Seine. We started getting reports of shootings via Twitter and Facebook. We started getting phone calls from loved ones at home who

had already heard [about the attacks] and saw lots of police were racing along the river banks to the sites of the shootings and bombings,” Warrington said. “[This was] my fourth time in Europe in four years,” Warrington said. “I never really noticed anything out of the ordinary [leading up to the events]. There was some military presence in a couple of the main tourist areas and a heavy police presence which is not uncommon, but very noticeable.”

For the travelers, when their boat reached dock, they were quickly put aboard their tour bus and driven back to their hotel. Warrington recalled the streets were very quiet the next morning in Paris. As more information became available on what had happened, Warrington realized his tour group had dodged the violence more than once.

“The attacks were in the 10th and 11th district, about 9 kilometers from our hotel. But we were in those areas on a US tour earlier Friday morning,” Warrington said. “It appears that the areas were targets due to the fact that they were in highly congested trendy areas. It makes us think though; we had eaten at countless bars, cafés and restaurant just like this.”

Warrington said that the people of Paris were in the process of picking up the pieces as his group left for home the day after the attacks.

JANUARY 6, 2016

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A Lion’s lesson in Canadian pride

Canada Day celebrations

On May 14 and 19,Lions’Project Pride was held at St.Martin’s and A.L.Horton for all the grade one students. Children are presented with a well-structured cloth Canadian flag and a Citizenship Certificate which they wave proudly as they sing O’ Canada. The late Leola Nawrot spearheaded the project for many years to instill a sense of Canadian pride in children. This would be her final year delivering the program to kids in Vegreville and leading them through the story of the nation’s colours. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Michael Simpson Editor Whether you were in Mundare for the Street Festival, Lavoy for the parade or Vegreville for the pancake breakfast and Canada Cake complete with fighter jet f lyover, there was something for everyone on one of the nation’s favourite holidays.

Canada Day is t hat per fect chance to celebrate the quirks that make us Canadian, and it was truly great to see kids getting their faces pa inted up, families decked out in red and white and people wearing f lannel in su m mer because it was the Canadian thing to do.

In Vegreville, we are fortunate to enjoy the hard work put on by

the Knights of Columbus, who are barely out of their aprons serving breakfast before donning their tuxedos and dĂŠcor to honour the nation with a colourful march into Elks park alongside the national f lag with other stalwart societies of the country such as the Royal Purple and the Vegreville Legion.

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vEGGfest Rocks! vEGGfest delivers on the hype after months of buildup. The two-day event is the entertainment showpiece of the 40th anniversary celebration of the Vegreville Pysanka. Friday night’s rock show with Kim Mitchell and Trooper and Saturday night’s performances by Doc Walker and Sawyer Brown are a hit with the audience.The event is the brainchild of the Vegreville and District Chamber of Commerce, and before the end of 2015 the Chamber announces that the two-day music event will be back again in the summer of 2016. (Davin Gegolick/Photo)

Vegreville Pysanka turns 40

Michael Simpson Editor Vegreville celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Pysanka in style with a formal program on August 29, sandwiched between a series of family events including a Kinsmen/ Elks/Kinettes pancake breakfast, artist market, live music provided by Perogies and Jam, face painting, Ukrainian dancing from Vegreville’s Promin Dancers, and a strong, stern presence by the RCMP in their splendid Red Serge, the tie-in that was promoted all summer-long through Impact Vegreville’s Paint the Town Red campaign.

Virgil Moshansky relayed the story of the Pysanka to the crowd, from the inspirational design work by Paul Sembaliuk to the critical connections that led to Dr. Resch, an American computer scientist from Utah who was able to

RCMP flank the walkway to the official ceremony of the 40th Anniversary of the Pysanka on August 29.The Pysanka was built to commemorate the centennial of the RCMP in Canada years ago, and as such the present-day presence of the Mounties was important to the organizing committee of the event. (Michael Simpson/Photo)

book time on the NORAD defense computer after hours to work out the calculations to design the egg’s shape.

“When I took on the job, I assumed that surely in the history of mankind someone had developed the mathematics for an ideal chicken egg shape,” Resch was quoted as saying by Moshansky. During the design process, Dr. Resch set nine scientific and mathematical firsts.

Moshansky recounted the work between the Chamber of Commerce, chaired by “a very hard working and dedicated Ralph Gorrie” and the Town of Vegreville itself, which on the day of the anniversary as much as the initial celebration 40 years earlier, had contributed substantially in funding and manpower to help the Chamber realize the end product of its 9 months of planning and preparation.

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Farmers united in protest on Bill 6 Michael Simpson Editor The honeymoon is over for the NDP after farmers protest unanimously against the government’s passing of Bill 6 in the winter of 2015. The Vegreville Social Center was the setting for a town hall meeting filled with tension between farmers and government on December 8. During discussions inside, the room boiled over with

farming operation to ensure compliance is in effect. Inspectors also will have the right to seize tools or equipment that is not in compliance. The Bill’s benefit to workers is handing them the right to refuse unsafe work until the site issues are rectified or the procedure has been modified to consider worker safety.

Also included are proposed amendments to the Employment Standards

comments when farmers felt questions weren’t being answered squarely, though government reps tried their best to reassure the crowd their intentions were good with the Bill, and that nobody was about to lose the farm over the new possible regulations.

In an analysis provided by the Association of Alberta Municipal Districts and Counties (AAMD&C), it was clarified that Bill 6, otherwise known as The Enhanced Protection to Farm and Ranch Workers Act, proposes to change the OH&S Act, removing exemptions in that legislation for farmers and ranchers. Much like construction sites, OH&S inspectors would have the right to enter a

Code for regulated working hours, overtime and holiday pay.

Additionally, exemptions from Workers Compensation regulations are proposed to be lifted, which would see ag-producers required to pay premiums for paid employees.

Another major proposed change would see the Labour Relations Code amended in the spring of 2016 which would subject farming operations to the same regulations found in that code that apply to other workplaces.

This would grant farm workers the same right to become members of a trade union and have collec-

tive bargaining power through agents.

In other provinces, such as B.C., Manitoba and Quebec, collective agreements have come into use.

AAMD&C expressed concern that the seasonal nature of farming in Alberta could make it difficult to consistently meet bargained requirements.

Perhaps the biggest thing sticking in the craw of farmers is that they have felt left out of the process until this point. Terry James is one such farmer from Lavoy. He will now be waiting to see how Bill 6 will impact his livelihood. “It’s unfortunate that they’re pushing ahead with all the opposition from farmers without properly explaining how it affects them,” James said. In his view, the issue of worker safety has not been stagnant. James said much work has already been done, voluntarily by the farmers themselves, without being forced to by legislation. “In my lifetime, safety has

News Advertiser PAGE 11

improved on farms, a lot. We can continue to improve with education programs and better equipment, but I don’t know if passing laws like this will be the best way,” James said. “I will say though to be fair that I have thought about workers compensation before; there are some benefits, but I didn’t ask for this legislation.”

At the town hall meeting on December 8, a farmer from Lloydminster put it best. “I’ve always learned more with my ears than my mouth. You guys need to listen to us before you shove this [legislation] down our throats.”

PAGE 12

News Advertiser

JANUARY 6, 2016

www. NewsAdvertiser .com

Shannon Stubbs wins her seat as MP Michael Simpson Editor

On the night of the 2015 Federal Election, the team in blue with the most home runs was the Jays. The Liberals formed a huge majority government with 184 seats, but the Conservatives managed to hang on to the western half of Canada with enough tenacity to form a 99-seat opposition the Liberals will have to be wary of.

Despite the overall loss for the Conservatives in total seats, the Lakeland Riding made it clear that the area will continue as a federal Conservative stronghold for at least another four years as Shannon Stubbs stood atop a heap of tens of thousands of votes ahead of the competing candidates Monday night. Stubbs bull-

dozed her way to victory with 39,398 votes (74%), followed by Liberal Garry Parenteau with 7,344 (14%), then NDP candidate Duane Zuraska with 4,942 votes (9%). Green party candidate Daniel Montgomery took 1,254 votes (2%), while Libertarian Robert McFadzean took 600 votes. “I’m very grateful to have earned the confidence of voters,” Stubbs said. “Thank you to the hundreds of volunteers and supporters, a riding like this presents its own unique challenges, and I’m happy to have the opportunity to serve Lakeland. I’m very proud of our constituency, and Lakeland residents should be proud of all the things we contribute to the country. My number one priority will be to promote Lakeland,” Stubbs said.

Conservative MP Shannon Stubbs received a victory smooch from husband Shayne Saskiw on October 19, 2015 after Stubbs grabbed 74% of the vote for the Lakeland Riding.Winning her first seat as an MP, Stubbs will now step into a role she’s familiar with, the Opposition, as the federal Conservatives lost ground overall in the 2015 federal election. (Michael Simpson/Photo)

The Observer’s final issue

Michael Simpson Editor After a run lasting well over 100 years, the Vegreville Observer prints its last edition on May 27, 2015.

In March of 1906, the Vegreville Observer printed its first issue as the local newspaper. It started off as the local gossip rag; “George Robinson sold his new home and twelve lots on Brockville Ave to Mr. Ezra Cole, Clute & Walker have taken over the furniture business of Alanson, Gully and Co…” The Observer would cover the daily comings and goings of the people of Vegreville and area. It would cover both

World Wars, and send many local men off in its pages, mourn the loss of some, and celebrate the return of others, including in both cases, sons of the Observer’s original Publisher, Andrew Leslie (A.L.) Horton.

As time of peace came to the world, the Observer settled in on covering political reforms both locally and provincially. Couples married, businesses started and succeeded or failed. Service clubs were chartered, and always, the Observer was there documenting the work of heroes and builders of the community. Schools were built, hospitals and churches consecrated. The Observer took its work seriously as a living documentarian of the history of the Town.

Mayors and councils came and went, children grew up and had children of their own, who in turn had children.

The Observer stayed with the family for two generations before changing hands.

The award-winning paper was recognized abroad in a eulogistic piece by the Edmonton Journal as well.

JANUARY 6, 2016

News Advertiser PAGE 13

www. NewsAdvertiser .com

Michael Simpson Editor

Tradition distilled

Robert de Groot and his wife Barb aren’t your average moonshiners. “We don’t use the term moonshine for what we do,” Barb said.

“We call our product ‘whiskey shine’ because it’s not made by moonlight out in the hills; we pay taxes on it.” The husband and wife team moved to Vegreville only a few years back to begin the complex process of setting up a distillery, making grain alcohol using vintage prairie moonshiner recipes. Having had other careers and lives before heading out east, their move to go all-in and create Red Cup Distillery Ltd. was bold, if not “spirited” and is also a new business in town that has never been done before – at least not legally. They brewed their first few batches at the end of 2015.

“Many people don’t realize that moonshine was a prairie survival tool for many years,” Robert said. “During the dustbowl era of the prairies, many farm families had to resort to whatever means they could to make extra money. Since Canada was, at that time, going through its prohibition period, selling bootleg booze was a way to put bread on the table. The police often turned a blind eye because they knew it was just a case where hard working families were trying to feed themselves, unlike the gangsters in the United States.”

Robert said he drew inspiration from the book “Red Lights on the Prairies” by James H. Gray and also from the whispered stories of Vegreville’s own connection to moonshine, including unconfirmed rumors of a tunnel that once ran from the old Alberta Hotel to a local grocery store and a warehouse, through which moonshine was passed and enjoyed many decades ago.

When transporting his massive, 280-gallon copper still from Edmonton, Rob drew stunned looks from older folks who knew exactly what the creation was for. “One fella said to me while I was parked ‘you know how many years you’d get for the amount of moonshine in that?’ I think there’s enough people out here that have tasted moonshine that the attitude to what we’re doing is one of acceptance,” Robert said. “We think it’s going to be a big hit in urban areas. A lot of people that live in the city now grew up on farms and had that authentic experience, they’re looking to Red Cup Distillery Ltd. is the first legally distilled whiskey wheat shine made using traditional prairie moonshine meth- reconnect with their past and re-forge those ties to rural culods and recipes. Owners Robert and Barb de Groot are an excited pair of transplants growing roots in the community. ture.”

(Michael Simpson/Photos)

Mazankowski Way recognized Michael Simpson During vEGGfest ceremonies, Vegreville Mayor Myron Hayduk formally announced the dedication of Mazankowski Way, a portion of 50 Street in Vegreville’s downtown, in honour of Don Mazankowski, the former Deputy Prime Minister of Canada, and Vegreville’s former MP for decades.

“Dedicating this important artery of Vegreville recognizes its significance and importance over the years,” Mazankowski said.

“For it is on this street the leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals discharged their responsibilities on behalf of this remarkable community. For me it is an anchor that will serve as a reminder of the experiences and the memories throughout the

almost 50 years we resided here.”

Known for his sense of humour and charm, Mazankowski couldn’t resist the urge to tell one more joke in front of the crowd, admitting that like Diefenbaker before him, now everyone could walk all over Maz and he wouldn’t be able to do a thing about it.

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PAGE 14

News Advertiser

JANUARY 6, 2016

www. NewsAdvertiser .com

Ask the Guys Dear Classified Guys, My kids love dogs, but we don't have the schedule to keep one.

However, this past Christmas, my ex-husband saw a classified ad for puppies and bought one for our kids without asking me first. For the past few weeks I've had a little puppy running around the house causing chaos. It's fine while the kids are off from school, but when they go back, the dog will be left alone with no one here to care for it. I can't decide whether to keep the pup or give it away. My kids are already falling in love with him. Now I have to be the bad guy and I know my ex-husband is just sitting back enjoying my dilemma.

How do I get out of this puppy mess?

• • •

Carry: Your ex-husband should

be the one in the doghouse, not your new puppy.

Cash: Giving a puppy as a gift is a bad idea if the recipient is unprepared, but involving a pet in the bickering of a divorce makes matters even worse.

Carry: The first thing you need to do is work on your relationship with your ex-husband. Even though you're divorced, you're

Duane “Cash” Holze & Todd “Carry” Holze 01/03/16 ©The Classified Guys®

both involved in raising the children and need to realize that they should not be placed in the middle of your feuds.

Cash: Unfortunately, you are now left with a difficult decision and everyone could suffer, especially the dog.

Carry: Unless your ex-husband plans on caring for the puppy at his house, the responsibility is all yours. And considering your kids have already spent a few weeks bonding with the dog, giving the puppy away will be upsetting for all of you.

Cash: To help you make the decision, ask yourself a few important questions that don't

involve all the emotions, such as: Is this puppy the right breed for the children? Do you have enough time to care for a puppy? Are your kids ready to own a dog?

Carry: If any of the answers are "no", then finding the pup a new home is your best option. Although your children may be upset with the decision at first, it's much better to give the dog away sooner than later.

Cash: Whatever your choice is, act on it quickly. You don't want to let this situation linger too long.

Carry: And be sure to work out an agreement with your ex-husband for the future. Otherwise next Christmas, you could be raising a pony!

Fast Facts Pet Giving

Reader Humor Step Lightly

Giving a pet as a gift seems like a great idea at the time, but many of these gifts end up at the local animal shelter when the recipients can't care for them. If you feel the urge to give a pet as a birthday or holiday gift, offer the recipient a gift certificate for a pet of their choice instead. That way, they can decide for themselves. You could include accessories they might need, like a leash or toys, but allow them to pick the animal that best suits their personality and circumstances.

I know that people like to spoil their dogs, but when I moved into my apartment I was introduced to a whole new world.

Every evening when my neighbor took her dog for a walk, she put booties on each of the dog's paws. Then when they returned to the lobby, she removed the booties before going upstairs.

One day, however, she let the dog keep his booties on as we all rode up in the elevator. I couldn't resist joking with her and commented, "I see you're letting your dog wear his boots inside today."

To my surprise she answered honestly, "I have to, his slippers are in the wash!"

(Thanks to Allen B.)

Wired Pets According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, over 40 million households in the U.S have at least one dog in the family. But owning a dog can be a lot of work. If you're looking for a simpler alternative, you may be the perfect candidate for a robotic dog. Although this less messy option can be a bit expensive, mechanical dogs and cats can actually understand commands, express emotions and even play fetch. If only our vacuum cleaners were so evolved!

•

•

•

Do you have a question or funny story about the classifieds? Want to just give us your opinion? Email us at: comments@classifiedguys.com.

Laughs For Sale

This "hunting" dog could be a new NFL breed.

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4-year-old p retrieve.

Trained to at Call Tim

www.ClassifiedGuys.com

APARTMENTS 1 & 2 bdrm suites with spacious storage.

Balcony.

Near Vegreville hospital, walking distance to Nofrill Superstore. Revin and Park are next to the building. Rent incl. water, heat and energized parking stall. 1 bdrm start from $795, 2 bdrm start from $895. SD start from $500. More info and viewing call 780-632-6878.

3 Bdrm, 2 bath large suite for rent. Includes garage, laundry, and utilities. Must be able to look after yard. $1400.00. Phone 780658-2221 SUITES FOR RENTStudios Alberta Ltd is accepting rental applications for immediate occupancy at its Landell Studios project at 5721 - 49A Street in Vegreville. Landell Studios offers affordable housing for single adults of any age.

Suites are totally self-contained 325 square foot studio, furnished with a fridge, stove, blinds and phone/ cable jacks. Rent is $440 per month (includes water/ sewer), and damage deposit is $440. Landell is ideal for persons receiving AISH, Social Assistance, an age or disability pension or some similar type of assistance.

Suites are single occupancy only. Further information and applications are available at www.studiosalberta. com or by calling 1-888963-5698.

2 Bdrm suite, includes utilities and laundry. N/S, N/P. $900.00. 780-658-2221 1 Bdrm lower suite.

Vegreville. Clean, bright, spacious. New windows and neutral colours. Free laundry. $690/mo + DD including heat and water.

Phone 1-780-904-0393 Must see 2 bdrm basement suite! 3 appliances, own entrance, extras and options. $950/month.

Available January 15, 2016. Phone 780-6322440

AUTOMOBILES

2000 Windstar.

Ex. engine & transmission.

Body damage. For parts $750. 780-922-5999 1978 Mercedes 280. 4dr.

Like new. 145,000kms only. $3600. 780-922-5999.

2002 Honda Civic, Standard Drives Excellent Needs TLC $3200 780-922-5999 2001 KIA, 4 cyl, 4 dr, standard, $1600. PH: 780-922-5999 Rare Super Charged 40th Anniversary Grand Prix.

Loaded. $4700. Phone 780-994-3005 2010 damaged Dodge Caliber 125,000kms. Drives excellent. For parts. $1500.

Phone 780-994-3005 Rare 2003 Acura Type S. Loaded. Ex. shape. $6700.

Phone 780-994-3005 2008 Touring Edition PT Cruiser, loaded. Only 36,000k, $8350. PH: 780994-3005

COMPUTERS VM SYSTEMS Looking for a new computer? VM SYSTEMS has all you’ll ever need in computers! Installation – Sales – Service – Internet. One call will get you in touch. Phone 780-632-2859 9am – 5pm.

EDUCATION NEW YEAR, NEW AIRLINE CAREER. Get FAA approved certification at campuses coast to coast. Job placement assistance. Financial Aid for qualifying students.

Call AIM 888-686-1704

ENTERTAINMENT DIRECTV Starting at $19.99 /mo.

FREE Installation. FREE 3 months of HBO, SHOWTIME, CINEMAX, & Starz. FREE HD/DVR Upgrade! 2015 NFL Sunday Ticket Included (Select Packages) New Customers Only.

CALL 1-800-370-1356

FEED Highland Feeders is purchasing feed barley. Please call the office at 780-768-2466.

Oats + Wheat Wanted.

Any condition, dry wet or heated. On farm pick-up.

Immediate payment. Toll free 1-866 349 2056

FARM LAND Looking for pasture and hayland. Min. 25 pair.

Hairy Hill/Vegreville or surrounding area. Phone Glen 780-208-0134 Taking Offers on 142.7 Acres, cultivated, 12 miles North of Vegreville. Phone 780-768-2331

FOOD THRILL DAD with 100% guaranteed, delivered-tothe-door Omaha Steaks!

SAVE 69%, plus 4 FREE Burgers - The Favorite Gift - ONLY $49.99! ORDER Today! 1-800-483-3491 or use code mbdad75 at www.

OmahaSteaks.com / 49377JCF Honey for sale. 10 pounds $ 25. Phone 780-632-4077

HEALTH & FITNESS VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg! 40 Pills + 10 FREE. SPECIAL $99.00 100% guaranteed. FREE Shipping! 24/7 CALL NOW! 1-888-223-8818

Stop OVERPAYING for your prescriptions! Save up to 93%! Call our licensed Canadian & International pharmacy service to compare prices & get $15 off your first prescription & FREE Shipping.

1-800-815-6059 VIAGRA & CIALIS! 50 pills for $95. 100 pills for $150 FREE shipping. NO prescriptions needed.

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Newly renovated, 3 bdrm, 2 bath house. Available immediately. Single car detached garage. Nice yard. New carpet and fresh paint. Please call or text 780-686-9608

HOUSEHOLD EFFECTS

New Year, New Career AVIATION Grads work with American, Boeing, Southwest and others- Get hands on maintenance training. Financial aid if qualified.

Call AIM 866-453-6204

Willingdon – Mobile all appliances. available parking, $775/mo. PH: 780-367-2974

SAFE STEP WALK-IN TUB alert for seniors!

Bathroom falls can be fatal.

Safe Step Walk-In Tub, approved by Arthritis Foundation, therapeutic jets, less than 4” step-in, wide door, anti-slip floors, A mer ic an made.

Installation Included. Call 800-379-6390 for $750 off

ADVERTISE to 10 Million Homes across the USA! Place your ad in over 140 community newspapers, with circulation totaling over 10 million homes. Contact Independent Free Papers of America IFPA at danielleburnett-ifpa@live.com or visit our website cadnetads.com for more information.

2 BEDROOM MAIN FLOOR SUITE NO SMOKE/NO PET CALL OR TEXT 780-2182278

LOST & FOUND

Lavoy - Newer Home. 3 Bdrm, 2 bath, upstairs laundry, full basement, big yard.

January 1, 2016. $1300.00.

Phone 780-658-2221 2 bdrm House, N/P, N/S, $950/mo. + utilities. PH: 780603-3125

HOMES FOR SALE

VIAGRA 100mg, CIALIS 20mg. 50 tabs $90 includes FREE SHIPPING. 1-888-836-0780 or MetroMeds.net

MISC.

HOMES FOR RENT

Make a Connection. Real People. Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks.

Try it FREE. Call NOW: Call 1-877-737-9447 18+

3 Bdrm Townhouse, $1090/ mo. available immediately.

Call Dave at 780-632-0321 or 780-932-0041

900 gal poly water tank w/pump on trailer. $1500 PH: 780-367-2228

Advertise your rental property here for as little as $7.95 per week!

Executive 4 bdrm home for rent or sale - Vegreville 411448A St. . Completely Landscaped. Huge covered deck. Back alley access.

Extra wide 60 x 140 Lot. 2 car heated attached 24 x 24 garage. Oversized driveway.

4 bathrooms including 3 piece ensuite. 3 fireplaces.

Family room and living room. $1900/month. Call Gary 780-632-9454

Protect Yourself From Unsafe Banks! DON’T BANK ON IT! Free book reveals 20 modern banking dangers such as cybercriminals, money-hungry politicians & Too-Big-To-Fail bankers. 800-893-261 Make a Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat. Meet singles right now! Call LiveLinks.

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Our service is FREE/no obligation. CALL 1-800-217-3942

2 bdrm Mobile Home, No pets PH: 780-208-9608 3 Bdrm Mobile Home, N/P. PH: 780-208-9608 Double Wide Mobile, newly renovated. N/P. PH: 780-208-9608 2 Bdrm/Main FLR, Furnished, N/S, N/P, 850/Mo DD + Util.

780-603-0833 3 bdrm/1 bth, N/S, N/P, avail imm. 632-7096 or 632-8882

Lost 4 weeks ago pair of prescription sunglasses. Dark brown. Slim in shape. Arms are warped. Phone 780-7640940

OWNER FINANCING AVAILABLE. Well maintained, 3 bdrm home in Vegreville. $178,000. $1300/month. Phone 780993-3819

CHILDREN’S BOOK – Looking for some wholesome reading material for your young reader? Check out Richard the Donkey and His LOUD, LOUD Voice at www.RichardTheDonkey. com

TRAVEL CRUISE DEALS available for a limited time. Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival and Norwegian.

Hurry as these offers won’t last! Call 877-270-7260 or go to NCPTRAVEL.COM to research.

Lot for mobile home available. Located in trailer park.

Call Sue 403-823-4499

THINKING ABOUT A CRUISE? Let us help you match your needs and wants with your budget.

Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival and all major cruise lines. Hurry – great offers available for a limited time! Call 877-270-7260 or go to NCPTRAVEL.COM to research.

PERSONAL

TRUCKS

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1993 Chev 4x4 Ext Cab. For parts. $650. 780-922-5999

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Discover the path to happiness. New members receive a FREE 3-minute love reading!

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18 & over. 800-758-2304

1985 F350 Dually. Extra long flat deck, $1600.

780-922-5999

MOBILE HOMES

ALL MALE HOT GAY HOOKUPS! Call FREE! 800450-0813 only 18 & over Will a God love really TORTURE people throughout eternity? Will the fire of Hell even burn the wickedness out of sinners.helltruth. com or call 632-3746

REAL ESTATE

2002 GMC 4x4 HD ¾ ton Service Truck 340k $3500 780-922-5999

1997 Ford 7.3 Diesel, 4 x 4, missing transmission.

Nice deck, $2800. 780922-5999 2000 Dodge Dakota V8 4x4 Farm Truck. $1,600.

780-922-5999.

2006 Honda Pilot 6 passenger SUV. Loaded. $5750. 780-994-3005 1999 Chev Silverado 3/4T, 4x4. Good for farm. $1500.

Phone 780-994-3005 2004 Dodge Ram 4x4.

Body damage. Farm truck. $1800. Phone 780-9943005 New, complete, exhaust system, fits GMC, Chev, crewcabs. $ 600.00.

Phone 780-632-9689 2001 Dodge Cummins Diesel. Sport, RWD, automatic. 196,000K, $11,500.

PH: 780-994-3005

JANUARY 6, 2016

2015 Chev 2500 Crew Cab 4X4 Short Box, Duramax Diesel, Z71 and Ultimate GFX packages.

Fully loaded with every option including heated steering wheel and heated and cooled seats.

18000km. Bumper to bumper warranty to 100,000km.

Asking $64,900. Must be seen to be appreciated! Phone 780-632-1685

www. NewsAdvertiser .com

News Advertiser PAGE 15

Benoit’s last supper

WANTED CARBON CREDITS – Attention Farmers – Not Completed? Call Today!

780-603-0630, Crystal Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 ADVERTISE to 10 Million Homes across the USA! Place your ad in over 140 community newspapers, with circulation totaling over 10 million homes.

Contact Independent Free Papers of America IFPA at danielleburnettifpa@live.com or visit our website cadnetads.com for more information.

Member of Parliament for Vegreville – Wainwright Leon Benoit smiles at his wife out of the frame, who is holding one of their grandchildren on her lap while Benoit was the guest of honour at an appreciation supper. (Michael Simpson/Photo)

Michael Simpson Editor Being a politician, the suppers are immense. Over the course of 22 years, local Conservative Member of Parliament Leon Benoit has likely attended hundreds of suppers, if not thousands. The flavour at a supper held at the Mannville Riverview Golf Course in the summer was different for Leon however; he was not there to bring greetings on behalf of the Prime Minister, talk about new programs or hand out grant funds. He was there to be thanked, again and again and again, for his many years of work on behalf of constituents.

Provincial MLA’s Dave Hanson and Wes Taylor attended. Despite a few joking remarks, the consensus of the group was that Benoit, among the original 52 members who marched to Ottawa in ’93 to form the opposition before winning the government seats ten years ago, was part of the movement to change the country for the better.

Pundits can debate the success of the Conservative party until the end of days in this effort, but no one can deny that reductions in

taxes and the steady hand of the Conservatives during the 2008 recession kept Canada insulated while international banking tremors caused turmoil abroad.

When finally it came time for Benoit to speak, he had to pass along his heartfelt thanks to his staff, who worked on behalf of constituents to help them resolve issues or get information. “It was a real team effort,” Benoit said. He thanked everyone for the opportunity to serve them, from the bottom of his heart. “22 years ago a group of us marched into Ottawa and we were going to change this country… how stupid was that? But we did… I’m so grateful to my colleagues and to Prime Minister Harper,” Benoit said. The Conservatives have lain claim to have brought taxes down by 35 per cent, grown the economy, helped families and kept the nation stable in times of global economic turmoil. There was no doubt that people present appreciated the work the party had done during their time in office.

The standing ovation at the end of the supper, however, was strictly for Benoit.

The end of a dynasty Michael Simpson Editor The political landscape in Alberta shifts after 44 years of life under the Tories. On May 5, voters sliced a 70-seat PC government down to 10 seats and elected a heaping majority government in favour of the NDP. Incumbent MLA Jacquie Fenske was ousted in what used to be part of the Tory heartland by newcomer to politics, NDP Candidate Jessica Littlewood, who rode the party wave as a parachute

candidate into the riding and took a commanding win. Despite the loss, when Fenske appeared in the room, she finished her leg of the race with the dignity and class one would expect from a public servant. She wished Littlewood well, and encouraged supporters gathered to look towards the bright future that lay ahead of them.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to have served the people of this constituency… I think the people of this constituency are fabulous,” Fenske said.

PAGE 16

News Advertiser

CUSTOM KITCHEN CABINET Residential / Commercial Kitchen Cabinets Custom Millwork Cabinet Doors

Dave Ph. (780) 632-4488 Shop Fax. (780) 632-6765 Cell. (780) 603-7922 email: dhorvat@telusplanet.net

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JANUARY 6, 2016

JANUARY 6, 2016

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MEMORIAM

News Advertiser PAGE 17

MEMORIAM

Memoriam

HOOK, Michael In loving memory of a dear husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather who passed away 27 years ago January 5, 1989.

I REMEMBER THE DAY I remember the day that I met you And the day that God made you mine I remember the day he took you away I will ‘till the end of time But through all the tears and heartache There is one thing that makes me glad That you chose me to share with you Those precious years we had Our lips cannot tell you how we miss you Our hearts cannot tell you what to say God alone knows how we miss you In a home that is lonesome today Your smile is gone forever And your face we cannot touch Still, we have our precious memories We love you so very much Your memory is our keepsake With which we’ll never part God has you in His keeping We’ll have you forever in our hearts.

Always in our thoughts and sadly missed by your loving wife Rose and Family

SHARUN, Peter January 10, 2014 We take this special moment To turn our thoughts to Dad 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 Dad was always there, No matter what the weather Always strong when things went wrong He held our lives together.

He strived so hard from day to day And never once complained With steady hands, he worked so hard And kept the family name.

He 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 He taught us how to give In his firm and steadfast way He taught us how to live.

Dad dwells among the angels now He left us much too soon He glides across a golden field Above the harvest moon.

Lovingly Remembered and Deeply Missed Gordon, Marilyn, Brett & Tamara

HNYDYK In Memory Of Ron Hnydyk September 17, 1938 – January 7, 2011 He had a nature you could not help loving And a heart that was purer than gold And to those who knew him and loved him His memory will never grow cold.

Thinking of you, Jennie, Bev, Michelle and Families

SHARUN, Peter May 15, 1926 – January 10, 2014 Two years ago today We sat beside your bedside Our hearts were crushed and sore. we did our best to the end Till we could not do no more.

In tears we watched you sinking we watched you fade away And though our hearts were breaking We knew you could not stay You left behind some aching, hearts. That loved you so much.

But love lives on forever It will never fade away Because with the love within our hearts You will walk with us forever.

Always remembered, loved and sadly missed. Your wife Verna, children and grandchildren, Sandy

OBITUARY

KNOTT, Morgan Albert April 23, 1937 – January 1, 2016 On Friday, January 1, 2016, Morgan Albert Knott of Vegreville, Alberta peacefully passed away at the age of 78 years.

Morgan is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Gwen; three daughters Kim (John), Jackie (John) and Corinne (Wes); six grandchildren Cameron (Kristin), Cody, David (Trisha), Lyle, Anna Marie and Keeanu; six great-grandchildren Maren, Lindon, Avery, Keagan, Ryker and Harrison; two brothers Raymond and Kevin; three sisters Dorothy (Dennis), Pat (Orval) and Alberta; sister-in-law Margaret. Morgan was predeceased by his son Glenn; one great grandson Cayle; his parents Albert and Annie Knott; one brother Floyd; one sister-in law Velma.

A Celebration of Morgan’s Life will be held on Thursday, January 7, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Rock Ministries & Church in Vegreville with Pastor Wes Stefanec officiating. Cremation has taken place. Inurnment to follow at a later date in Riverside Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the “The Rock Emergency Shelter Services.” To send condolences visit www. autumnrosefuneralhome.com Autumn Rose Funeral Home Ltd., Vegreville,780-603-5800

Bio incinerator application burned Michael Simpson Editor After two days of appeal hearings on April 23 and May 7, the Beaver County Subdivision and Development Appeal Board rendered their decision on the matter of G-M Pearson Environmental Inc’s efforts to move forward with plans to build a biomedical incinerator in Equity Industrial Park on county land just outside the village of Ryley. It’s a “No” as far as they’re concerned. G-M Pearson can still appeal this decision in court under section 688 of the Municipal Government Act if it chooses.

Both Pearson as the Appellant in the

matter, and various residents and business owners as the collective body comprising the Interveners provided their stable of expert witnesses, pled complete opposite sides on the matter with evidence to support both sides, leaving it to the Board to sift through and remove what didn’t count for consideration and what did.

The original application to the Development Authority was denied on a variety of environmental reasons including available water supply, impact on nearby lands, safety of residents and incompatible land usage.

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Michael Simpson Editor Sometimes the most remarkable careers begin with a simple encounter.

Jerold Lemko and his brother were passing by the Vegreville Fire Hall one afternoon when, as Jerrold recalls, the late Brian Henderson, Deputy Fire Chief for Vegreville at that time, came out of the building with an application in his hand and said to Jerrold, “have you ever considered becoming a firefighter?”

Jerold was 34 years old at that time and had never considered the possibility until that moment of what being a volunteer firefighter might mean. He agreed, took Henderson’s application, and now 25 years later Lemko stands on the high point of a career in the service of others.

2015 marked the year Lemko was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association.

“It’s fairly humbling to be recognized,” Lemko admitted, though he always puts the accolades back on the people he works with. “You can never ever win an award without the people that nominated you, the people you work with. We’ve got the greatest team here at Emergency Services you can imagine, simply

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JANUARY 6, 2016

The worthy hours

the best.” Lemko also won a national Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year award in 2013 from the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, but his work as a fire chief has been one ray of light in a lifetime filled with brilliance working with people as a volunteer. Lemko has graciously accepted an Alberta Centennial award (1 of 100 to ever receive the honour for significant contributions to sports in the province), a Stars of the Millennium Award, handed to him by Gary Mar and the late Ralph Klein, an Order of Merit from Hockey Canada and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee, in addition to his

other service medals as a firefighter.

Lemko retired from a 40 year career with ATCO recently, and turns 60 this year. Besides his work with the fire department, he’s done coaching and teambuilding locally and provincially. “There’s a role for all of us. Some of us have to work the booth, some do the fundraising. I try to be the best supporter of youth that I can,” he said.

Over the years of attending fire calls, being on crash scenes, putting out burning buildings and seeing human suffering on a sobering scale, Lemko said the balance comes in

the returning of time and care to others. “Volunteering is the good side of the game in life; stuffing an ambulance to give to the food bank, doing boot drives to raise funds for people with Multiple Sclerosis, walking for the cure to cancer, helping out the Texas 4000 when they come through, teaching our junior firefighters new things. All these things keep me young… it’s something I’ll do until the day that I die. To see their growth is rewarding beyond measure. So many people go in their backyard at night and sit there and listen to the sound of the birds; I’ve got to give.”

JANUARY 6, 2016

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Saving lives with a Second Call Michael Simpson Editor Rocky Pooke has a great deal of experience with saving lives. As a veteran firefighter, he’s been pulling people from burning buildings and crashed cars for over 20 years. As a master electrician who owns Vegreville Electric, he’s worked around jobsite excavations, home renovations, commercial and industrial expansions – everything under the sun, and to go further, a lot under the dirt as well.

Pooke was the focus of an article in the Globe and Mail which showcased his newest company, 2nd Call, which has a focus on keeping people safe by locating unregistered lines not singled out by the province’s primary utility locating service, Alberta One Call. “You hear that same sad story; a guy gets up early, kisses his wife and kids goodbye, tells them ‘I’ll see you at supper’ and then goes to work. He’s on the equipment, he’s digging and hits a line he didn’t know was there because it was unregistered.

He never comes home. I’m working to prevent that,” Pooke said.

“Alberta One Call is a great service, and I think anyone who is doing some digging for a project should use them first, in fact we insist our clients do that.” Pooke said. “But the part that’s missing is that they deal with registered lines from their members. Anything that isn’t on the books isn’t checked for – but that doesn’t mean it isn’t there.”

Two years after starting up 2nd Call Corporation, Pooke found himself swamped with calls once word got out about his operation and what it did for workplace safety. “You’d have one day up in Ft. McMurray, the next we’d be in Banff, then up to Grande Prairie. It was nuts.” Pooke then opted to spread his service across the province by establishing a franchise system. Within a year, he’d set up 8 franchises that have the ability to service the entire province by region. He’s now expanding into BC and Saskatchewan.

Editor’s Note: This Vegreville News Advertiser article received a third place award in the International Free Papers Association competition for best feature story in 2015.

Rocky Pooke has had success in his years as a Master Electrician and owner of Vegreville Electric. His successful small business franchise startup, 2nd Call Corporation, is taking off as industry realizes a need for the service. “I’m saving lives before there’s a problem. I take that very personally,” Pooke said. (Michael Simpson/Photo)

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W E D N E S D AY, J A N U A R Y 6 , 2 016

З Різдвом Христовим По-українськи!

Olena Babiy “Христос Народився! Славімо Його!”, – таке привітання є традиційним для одного з найвеличніших церковних свят, “Jesus Christ is born! We glorify him!” – this is a traditional яке наближується, – Різдва Христового. Це свято належить greeting during one of the greatest religious holidays that is до так званих дванадесятих свят, які церква святкує з coming – Christmas. It belongs to the twelve biggest feasts особливою величчю. celebrated by the church with special greatness.

Merry Christmas in Ukrainian!

Українці традиційно святкують Різдво 7 січня. Нагадаємо, що розбіжність у святкування Різдва між сходом і заходом викликана тим, що різними церквами беруться до уваги різні календарі. В Україні це свято відзначається за Григоріанським календарем. Перед Різдвом протягом чотирьох тижнів люди дотримуються посту. В цей час також прийнято приводити до ладу свою оселю – прибирати, оздоблювати, прикрашати її. Вечір напередодні Різдва називається Святвечір, коли вся родина збирається разом на Святу Вечерю, яка повинна складатися із куті (відварена пшениця або ячмінь, в яку додають мак, мед, горіхи та ізюм), та інших дванадцяти страв. Свята Вечеря починається з появою на небі першої зірки. Особливо радісним Різдво завжди було для дітей та молоді, тому що в цей день вони збиралися у ватажки і ходили колядувати. Неодмінними атрибутами колядування були восьмикутна зірка, прикрашена стрічками, і різні маски. Молоді люди заходили до сусідніх осель і вітали господарів колядками і щедрівками, натомість господарі пригощали гостей ласощами.

Ukrainians traditionally celebrate Christmas on January 7.

The difference between the western and eastern celebrations is caused by different calendars respected by the church. In Ukraine this holiday is celebrated according to the Gregorian calendar.

Four weeks before Christmas fasting time begins. This is also the time for making order in the house – cleaning and decorating. The night before Christmas is called Christmas Eve, this is the time when the whole family comes together for the Holy Supper which includes kutia (cooked wheat or barley with poppy seeds, honey, nuts and raisins) and 12 other dishes. The Holy Supper starts with the first star in the sky.

Christmas has always been especially joyful for children and youth, because on this day they gathered in groups and walked from house to house singing Christmas carols. The essential features of this tradition were an eight-point star decorated with ribbons and different masks. Young people came to neighbours’ houses to greet the hosts with Christmas carols (koliadky and shchedrivky), and the hosts treated their guests with sweets.

З давніх давен люди вірять в різні прикмети, пов’язані з Різдвом. Наприклад, було помічено, що врожай може бути кращим, якщо починати збирати його саме в той день, в який приходить Різдво. Якщо на Різдво іній на деревах – то буде гарний врожай хліба, а якщо в цей день тепла погода – слід очікувати холодну весну. А от якщо на Різдво піде сніг – то рік буде напрочуд гарний і щасливий.

Since old times people have believed in different omens connected with Christmas. So people noticed that the harvest could be better if starting gathering it on the same week day as Christmas came. If there is hoar frost on the trees on Christmas day, then it will be a good harvest of bread; if the weather is warm on this day, then spring will be cold. And if it snows on Christmas, then the year will be good and happy.

So we wish us all a lot of snow on Christmas. Merry Тому ми бажаємо всім нам гарного снігу на Різдво. З Christmas! Різдвом Христовим!

Ukrainian Christmas Special section on starting on page 3

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JANUARY 6, 2016

A for Albatross

Hlady’s hat trick 65-year-old Ben Warren holds up the ball he was using when he made his one-in-a-million Albatross shot on the fifth hole of the Vegreville Kinsmen Golf Course on May 18. Warren drove a beautiful shot up the fairway, a 277-yard drive, to lay up for his second shot. (Michael Simpson/ Photo)

Volunteer extraordinaire Dwayne Hlady scored a hat trick in 2015 with an Alberta Seniors Award, Vegreville’s Senior Citizen of the year award, and the Stars of Alberta volunteerism award. Hlady said he was humbled with the recognition he received but said the people he works with as a volunteer are the reason he won any awards at all. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

ATCO cash offer divides Lakeland REA members Michael Simpson Editor The Lakeland REA experiences a deep divide after ATCO Electric makes an unsolicited offer to purchase the

organization. Petitions begin attempting to drive the board towards calling a vote on the purchase offer, the board itself describes ATCO’s initial offer as a hostile takeover, and a polarized debate begins as to whether shareholders in the REA are better off selling or keeping the rural electrification associa-

tion intact.

In recent years, ATCO Distribution has purchased multiple electrification associations as it has grown in size.

Even as the REA held meetings to keep members warm to the idea of keeping the power co-op alive, ATCO was holding information sessions of its own.

“Our objective around [the offer to purchase] is to make sure REA members understand the option and the details that the offer looks like,” Brent Kobelka, Regional Manager for ATCO Electric

said. He clarified that the purchase offer isn’t hostile at all. “The purchase proposal isn’t hostile. It could never be.

The control of the decision [to sell to ATCO] squarely rests with the members of the REA… in terms of working with Lakeland REA this is business as usual. It’s a part of the current wire owner agreement which spells out how a purchase offer is to be made to Lakeland REA and we’ve executed on that [article within the agreement].”

“We’re in the business of owning electrical distribution systems,” Kobelka said. “When there’s an opportunity to purchase electrical distribution assets that’s certainly something we want to explore.”

JANUARY 6, 2016

CHRISTMAS, WHICH TAKES ITS NAME From Christ’s Mass, was first celebrated on various dates from about 200 A.D. but was finally set on December 25

by Bishop Liberus of Rome in 354 A.D. The December date, which almost coincides with the winter solstice, became a popular festival of West Europe during the Middle Ages. But as late as the nineteenth century, Christmas celebration was suppressed in Scotland and New England because of some religious differences.

All Christian nations have traditions which have become a part of the Christmas season. For example, England has contributed the decorations of holly and mistletoe, carolling and gift giving.The Christmas tree is a medieval German tradition and the immortal carol “Silent Night” also comes from Germany. The United States first made Santa Claus popular in New York, popularized the Christmas card about 1846 and made the major contribution to commercializing Christmas.

When Ukraine under King Volodymyr (St. Vladimir) accepted Christianity from Byzantium in 988 A.D. many pagan traditions were in existence which were adapted by the Church to the new religion. Some of those traditions have survived a thousand years and now form a part of today s Christmas celebrations.

SVIATA VECHERA OR “HOLY SUPPER” is the central tradition of the beautiful Christmas Eve celebrations in Ukrainian homes. The dinner table sometimes has a few wisps of hay on the embroidered table cloth as a reminder of the manger in Bethlehem. Many Canadian and American families wear their Ukrainian embroidered shirts on this occasion.

When the children see the first Star in the eastern evening sky, which symbolizes the trek of the Three Wise Men, the Sviata Vechera may begin. In farming communities the head of the household now brings in a sheaf of wheat called the didukh which represents the importance of the ancient and rich wheat crops of Ukraine, the staff of life through the centuries. Didukh means literally “grandfather spirit” so it symbolizes the family’s ancestors. In city homes a few stalks of golden wheat in a vase are often used to decorate the table.

A prayer is said and the father says the traditional Christmas greeting, “Khristos rodyvsya!” (Christ is born!) which is answered by the family with “Slavite Yoho!” (Let Us Glorify Him!) In some families the Old Slavic form Khristos razhdayetsya is used.

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THERE IS A LEGEND That connects St. Nicholas with the tradition of giving presents secretly. There was a nobleman in Patana with three daughters but he was too poor to provide them with a dowry for marriage. He was almost on the point of abandoning them to a sinful life when Nicholas heard of his problem. That night he took a purse of gold and threw it in an open window. The nobleman used it for a dowry the next day as he did a second purse he found the next night.

Curious about his benefactor, the third night he watched and caught Nicholas in the act but he was told not to reveal the Saint’s identity or generosity.

Ever since, St. Nicholas has been identified with the tradition of gift giving. His three purses of gold eventually became the three golden balls symbol of pawnbrokers.

St. Nicholas is the most popular saint in the Ukrainian church after St. Vladimir, as is shown by the fact that there have been more churches named after St. Nicholas than after any other saint. Some scholars believe that it was through the great popularity that the Saint enjoyed in Kievan Rus-Ukraine in medieval times that his popularity spread to western Europe, and particularly to Belgium and Holland.

SAINT NICHOLAS One of the most popular saints honored by the Greek and the Latin churches was actually a real person who lived in the 4th century in Myra, Asia Minor, which is presently Demre in Turkey. Traditionally, he has been honored on December 6 by the Latin Church and on December 19 according to the churches, such as the Ukrainian, which follow the Julian Calendar.

In his youth Nicholas entered a monastery and later became an abbot and then a bishop. After suffering persecution and imprisonment, he was freed by a new emperor, Constantine. He died in 352 and his relics were preserved in Myra for seven centuries until some Italian merchants sent an expedition of three ships and 62 men to Myra and, through a ruse, carried off his remains. They were deposited in the church in Bari, Italy on the Adriatic Sea on May 9, 1087 where they have remained to this day.

Many traditions relating to Saint Nicholas as the special guardian of maidens, children, scholars, merchants and sailors, have come down to our day.

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MALANKA OR SHCHEDRY VECHIR On January 13th according to the Julian calendar is celebrated as Ukrainian New Year’s Eve in many cities. On this, the last night of the year, New Year’s carols called Shchedrivky are sung. One of the most famous of these is the popular”Shchedryk” by Leontovich which is known in English as “The Carol of the Bells.”

While Christmas is a religious event, Malanka is a secular, merry-making celebration. In some communities Ukrainian professional and businessmens’ clubs or youth organizations sponsor a dress up Malanka Banquet and Ball.

The traditional Christmas customs of Ukraine add color and significance to the winter festival of Christmas, and Ukrainian Christmas on January 7th is usually a peaceful and quiet event. This celebration reminds us of the baby in a Bethlehem manger whose 1,975th birthday we celebrate. But whether Christmas is celebrated on December 25th or on January 7th the message is the same: “Peace on Earth! Good will towards men!

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WHY DO UKRAINIANS CELEBRATE

AT THE END OF THE SVIATA VECHERA The family often sings Kolyadky, Ukrainian Christmas Carols. In many communities the old Ukrainian tradition of carolling is carried on by groups of young people and members of organizations and churches calling at homes and collecting donations.

The favorite Ukrainian carol is Boh predvichny (God Eternal) which has a very beautiful melody and Iyrics. Some Ukrainian carols are unusual because they mention Ukraine while others are ancient pagan songs of a thousand years ago which have been converted into Christian carols.

Christmas on January 7th rather than December 25th?

Many people wonder why the Ukrainian date is thirteen days later and only a few people are aware that it is related to a change from the calendar which was in use two thousand years ago.

The Roman calendar that had been in use since the eighth century B.C. originally started the year on March 1 and had 10 months as the names of the months themselves indicate, September (7), October (8), November (9) and December (10). Eventually two months were added, Januarius and Februarius, and the year was started on January. However, it was only 355 days long so it had over ten days error and the seasons and the calendar over the years continued to lose their correct relationship.

JULIAN CALENDAR JULIUS CAESAR FINALLY in 46 B.C. had the Greek astronomer Sosigenes establish the length of the solar calendar at 365 and one quarter days (365.25). Every fourth year was to add one day to keep the quarter days accurate and this has now become our leap year with February 29. The Julian Calendar was introduced on January 1, 45 B.C. and the next year Caesar was honored by having the seventh month renamed in his honor as July. A later Roman Emperor, Augustus Caesar, corrected the leap year system in A.D. 8 and in his honor a month was renamed August.

But the Julian year of 365 days and 6 hours exceeds the true solar year of 365.2422 days or 365 days 5 hours 49 minutes and 46 seconds by the amount of 11 minutes 14 seconds. The difference is about 0.0078 of a day per year or about one day in 128 years. Over a period of 1,500 years the calendar was again getting out of step with the natural seasons by about ten days.

Christmas, which had been celebrated on many different dates was finally fixed on December 25th by Bishop Liberius of Rome.

In 354 A.D. he chose the date to replace a Roman pagan festival of sun-god worship with Christ’s Mass, a Christian event.

Ukrainian Christmas Eve Twelve dishes symbolize the twelve Apostles. One of the dishes is traditionally kutya, an ancient dish made from wheat, poppy seeds, and nuts, which all members of the family partake in. A place setting may be laid to remember someone who has passed away. Hay may be brought into the house to remind those gathered of the manger in which Christ was born.

An interesting aspect of Christmas in Ukraine is the bringing of a wheat sheaf into the house as a reminder of ancestors and the long tradition of agriculture in Ukraine. The sheaf is called a didukh.

Caroling is also a part of Ukrainian Christmas traditions. Traditionally, caroling involved a whole cast of characters, including a person dressed as a shaggy animal and someone to carry the bag that would be filled with rewards gotten in return for the songs the band of carolers would sing.

Svyatyy Mykolay St. Nicholas Ukraine’s Santa Claus goes by the name of Svyatyy Mykolay. Though Svyatyy Mykolay visits children with presents on December 6th according to the Roman Catholic calendar, in Orthodox nations, the Day of St. Nicholas is observed on December 19th. In Ukraine, Svyatyy Mykolay is more likely to make an appearance on this later date because the majority of Ukraine’s population associates with the Eastern Orthodox Church.

The Ukrainian St. Nick is usually dressed in his bishop’s robe and hat. Accompanied by angels, or sometimes an angel and a devil, he dispenses gifts to children on his day. He may also leave a willow branch under children’s pillows to warn them to be on their best behavior. The tradition of Sviatyij Mykolai is also associated with the beginning of the cold weather.

In Ukraine, St. Nicholas Day is a celebration of one of the country’s most important saints. It is a time for charity, and the Ukrainian president issues a statement wishing Ukrainians and Ukrainian children a happy St. Nicholas Day with an admonition to remember the less fortunate on this day.

JANUARY 6, 2016

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Holopchi - Cabbage Rolls 3 cups short grain rice 6 cups water 3/4 cups margarine (divided into 1/2 cup and 1/4 cup) 1 tsp salt 1 lb ground beef (omit for Christmas Eve meatless meal) 1 onion 1 can tomato soup 2 heads cabbage (steamed, sectioned, frozen and then thawed) 1/4 lb bacon (omit for Christmas Eve meatless meal) Salt and pepper to taste

Rolmopsy Appetizer Love herring? — pickled, creamed, fried, whole, fillets — and in this rollmops appetizer –rolmopsy. Storebought pickled herring can be drained and wrapped around your choice of dill pickles, pickled mushrooms or onion. This makes a great starter course anytime of the year but especially for Ukrainian Christmas Eve. Makes 12 Rollmops • 4 pickled herring fillets, cut into 3 pieces, pickling juices from jar reserved • Dill pickles • Pickled mushrooms • Pickled onions • Dill • Prep Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes

Bring 6 cups of water, 1/4 cup margarine, and your 3 cups of short grain rice to a boil and simmer until cooked. Brown your ground beef with 1/2 of your onion chopped. Keep your cooked rice in the large pot. When your ground beef and onions are cooked, mix in with your white rice and set aside. Mix your can of tomato soup with 1/2 cup water and set aside. Next step, bring out the margarine (or butter) and melt with your remaining 1/4 onion chopped. Lay aluminum foil on the bottom of a large casserole dish and spoon one layer of your tomato soup, bacon and onion mixture. Take a cabbage leaf (roughly the size of your hand) and lay it flat. Take a small spoonful of your rice and beef mixture and place it on the top 1/3 of the cabbage leaf. Begin to fold the edges over the rice/beef mixture.

Shape and roll the cabbage leaf and rice/beef mixture to the bottom.

Tuck in both edges of the cabbage roll. Place in your casserole dish.

In between the first and second layer, and on top of the second layer, add more tomato soup mixture along with bacon and onion.

Remember that margarine (or butter) and onions we melted? Pour it over the two layers of cabbage rolls. Cover second layer with a few remaining cabbage leaves and place foil over top. Bake in a 325 F oven for 3 hours.

1. Place a slice of pickle or mushroom or onion at one end of a herring piece. Roll and skewer with a fancy frilled toothpick. Repeat. Cover with plastic and refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. At time of service, if desired, drizzle rolls with reserved pickling juices or serve the juices separately in a small bowl for dipping. Garnish each rollmop with a sprig of dill or parsley.

Dried Fruit Compote/Kompot

Kutya - Sweet Wheat Soup

It is a traditional Christmas Eve (wigilia) dessert and originally was made with 12 dried fruits to represent the 12 apostles (I wonder which one was Judas?). When made thicker, it’s great dolloped on toast or ice cream.

It’s also a great edible gift, but it must be refrigerated. It keeps for about 1 week. Makes 12 servings of Dried Fruit Compote

This first-course Christmas Eve pudding of sorts is typically made with wheatberries that are sweetened with honey and sometimes augmented with poppy seeds, dried fruits and nuts. The kutya is eaten from a common dish to symbolize unity and, in some families, a spoonful of kutya is thrown up to the ceiling. If it sticks, a plentiful honey harvest can be expected

1 1/2 pounds dried fruits (prunes, apricots, figs, apples, peaches, pears, berries) 8 cups water 8 whole cloves 2 cinnamon sticks Lemon zest, optional 1 cup sugar, or to taste Prep Time: 0 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes

1 pint (2 cups) cooked wheat 6 tablespoons ground poppy seeds 1/4 cup honey 1/4 cup roughly chopped pecans 3/4 cup hot water

In a large saucepan, place fruit, water, cloves, cinnamon, zest, if using, and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently, and simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes or until fruit is tender and syrup has thickened slightly.

Add more water if you like a liquidy consistency or reduce by further simmering for a thicker compote.

Cool in an ice water bath and transfer to impeccably clean containers. Refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Nalysnyky 4 eggs 1 heaping cup milk (1% works well) 1/2 cup water 1 cup flour 1/2 tsp salt For Cheese filling: 2 cups Quark Whole Milk Cheese (if you cannot find this, you can substitute cottage cheese) 2 egg yolks 2 tbsp whipping cream 1 tbsp dill (or more to taste – use fresh if you have. If not, the dried stuff works great as well)

To cook wheat: Dry wheat in 205F oven for 1 hour, stir occasionally.

Wash, soak in cold water overnight. Next morning, bring wheat to boiling point, simmer 3-4 hours, until kernels burst open.

To prepare the poppy seeds: Scald poppy seed, simmer 3-5 minutes. Drain, grind twice using the finest blade of food chopper.

Add ground poppy seeds to wheat. Combine honey and sugar in hot water. Add to wheat. Finally add your roughly chopped pecans.

Beat eggs one at a time. Add the milk, water, flour and salt and beat enough just to blend and get rid of any lumps. Pour 1 tbsp canola oil in a hot non-stick pan and scoop 3/4 of a ladel full of batter and swirl around creating a thin circular layer. Flip when side is golden brown (approximately 45 seconds). Oil pan in between each crepe as needed. Makes approximately 8 – 10 crepes. Beautifully golden brown! Next, melt 1/4 cup of butter and ensure your cheese is at room temperature. Mix egg yolks, whipping cream and salt with cheese. Add your dill. Lightly spread an even layer of cheese on each crepe. Roll up gently. We cut each crepe in three equal pieces. However, you can easily keep them intact. I find the pieces are easier to fit into the bowl if they are sectioned. Spoon a small amount of the melted butter into the bottom of a large foiled casserole dish. Now start layering in your Nalysnyky. Make sure to butter in between each layer and on top of your final layer. You don’t want any layers to stick together. Wrap the sides of the foil loosely over the top of the Nalysnyky. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes.

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Perogies Some of our favourites are potato and cheese, sauerkraut, prune and raisin. Blueberry is also amazing as well.

For potato filling: 1 medium onion, chopped 1/4 cup butter 3 cups cooked potatoes, mashed (reserve water used while boiling potatoes) 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper 1 cup grated cheddar cheese Saute onion in butter, add to mashed potatoes. Add salt, pepper and cheese. Mash well. Cool the mixture completely until using as filling. Yields about 5 dozen perogies.

For the dough: 4 cups flour 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1.5 cups lukewarm potato water (VERY IMPORTANT) 1 tsp salt Combine the above ingredients. Knead a bit and allow to stand for at least 30 minutes. Take a piece of it and roll it out into a thin sheet on a floured surface. Using a disk-shaped cutter, press out as many circles of dough as possible. Now the folding process: Place filling in the center of the dough.

Fold. Pinch edges around – hard. The ends of the perogy are turned in. Those are our fruit ones! If you don’t do this, you have a harder time distinguishing between them all once cooked.

To cook: Place some butter, and onions in a frying pan and cook until tender. In a large pot, bring water, tsp salt and 1 tbsp of vegetable oil to a boil Place perogies in boiling water and gently stir so they don’t stick to the bottom. Once done, scoop out with slotted spoon and place in a bowl. Toss with butter and onions.

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JANUARY 6, 2016

Perishke For the bun dough: 2 tbsp yeast 1 cup lukewarm water 3 eggs 1 cup water 6 tbsp canola oil 1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp white sugar, divided 1 tsp salt 6 cups all purpose flour For the cottage cheese filling: 2 lbs. dry curd cottage cheese 2 eggs 4 green onions, thinly sliced 1 cup fresh dill, finely chopped Salt and pepper to taste For Dill Sauce: 1 small onion, finely chopped 1/4 fresh dill, finely chopped 2 tbsp butter 2 cups whipping cream Place yeast and sugar into a small bowl. Add 1 cup of lukewarm water and stir. Let rise for about 10 minutes, or until very frothy. In a large bowl, whisk eggs together. Whisk in canola oil, 1/2 cup sugar, salt, water and frothy yeast mixture.

Stir well. Add your flour 1 cup at a time. Mix well until flour is combined with the wet ingredients. Transfer your dough onto a well-floured surface.

Kneed until soft and elastic. Form into a ball. Place dough into oiled bowl, turning dough once to coat completely. Cover and place in a warm area for 1 hour. Knead again briefly.

Cover and let rise again for another hour or so. While your dough is rising, make the cottage cheese filling.

Place cottage cheese in a large bowl. Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the cottage cheese to make the curd smaller. Add your eggs, sliced green onions, fresh dill and salt and pepper.

Mix well. Pinch off small pieces of your dough. Flatten with your fingers and place a teaspoon amount of filling into the center of the dough. Pinch sides together and shape into crescents, then little balls.

Place onto a greased or parchment lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for about 20 minutes.

Bake in a 325 degree Fahrenheit oven for 15 minutes. Brush with melted butter.

Now make your creamy dill sauce. Melt butter in a medium sauce pan over medium-high heat.

Add onions and dill to the melted butter. Saute together until onions are soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Pour in your whipping cream. Bring to light boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Pour over your delicious creamy dill sauce.

JANUARY 6, 2016

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Cargill terminal goes down

A cartage and wrecking company tore down the Cargill grain terminal at Vegreville’s west end in mid-2015. It is presumed by many that the reason for the demolition has to do with an inadequately sized rail spur which does not accommodate larger segments of rail cars used in modern grain shipping practices. (Michael Simpson/Photo)

Beaver County’s season of Ag Disaster Michael Simpson Editor Weather conditions prove unfavorable for farmers in Beaver County, which declared a state of Agricultural Disaster in the summer of 2015 after extreme drought conditions have left many crops far below proper development levels. Beaver County Reeve Kevin Smook said rains have been so sporadic that some areas still have not received much moisture at all. Sporadic falls of rain come “too little, too

late” for many farmers, who are also dealing with exorbitant feed costs for cattle. Hay bales typically priced around $40-75 a bale hit prices as high as $140-175. Hansen said livestock producers are being affected by the high cost and limited supply of feed. Several other counties follow suit and declare Ag Disaster status to allow farmers to qualify for some relief from the federal government. The County of Minburn makes it through the season without declaring disaster status.

News Advertiser insider PAGE 7

Mural unveiled!

Michael Simpson, Rosanne Fortier “The biggest excitement for me is watching the kids find their pieces,” Lewis Lavoie said on May 20. These words came after some special helpers unveiled a giant 9-foot by 22-foot mural filled with tiles painted by all the school children in Vegreville to create a moving tribute both to the community, and in a larger sense, to Canada itself.

“This mural is the first one that will represent all the murals across Canada. I feel that Vegreville is a leader in this province

for art.” Lavoie announced.

Lewis, along with fellow artists Paul Lavoie and Phil Alain, were on hand as the mural was unveiled in Vegreville’s downtown on the north side of the ATB building. It’s the first of 150 such murals across Canada coming in the next two years until the 150-year anniversary of the nation in 2017. “Of all the murals we’ve done so far, this is the first to use school children almost exclusively,” Lewis said.

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JANUARY 6, 2016

Cheers to you, Doc! The people of Vegreville raised their glasses as one to Dr. Selby Frank and his wife, Suzanne, on December17while the good doctor and his wife raised their glasses in turn, to Vegreville.

After 43 years in medicine, the last 10 of which were spent in Vegreville, Dr. Frank hung up his stethoscope as Chief of Medical Staff. (Michael Simpson/Photo)

A special presentation by Todd Hirsh Chief Economist with ATB Financial

Alberta’s econPNic outlook in 2016

Date: Monday, January 18th, 2016 Location: Sunshine Club Time: Door opens at 6PM 4630-49th Street, Vegreville Presentation starts at 6:30 PM

Meet ATB’s Chief Economist Todd Hirsch and hear the latest on Alberta’s economy. Find out how our region and resources may be impacted by global conditions—and what that means for Albertans.

Join ATB and Todd at this exciting event to explore what lies ahead.

RSVP by Wednesday, January 13th, 2016 to Lisa Dribnenki by email ldribnenki@atb.com or call (780) 632-5094.

Hosted by Peter Arnold, Financial Advisor, ATB Securities Inc.

ATB Securities Inc. (Member: Canadian Investor Protection Fund; Member: Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ATB Financial. ATB Investor Services is a trade name/registered trademark of Alberta Treasury Branches. Admission is free. This event is not intended to provide, nor should it be construed as providing advice regarding investments in individual securities or as an offer to sell, or a solicitation to buy any security. Always consult your investment professional before making any investments in securities.