Vegreville News Advertiser - December 13, 2023

VOL. 76 NO. 50

WEDNESDAY,, December 13, 2023 WEDNESDAY 76 YE ARS OF SERVING THE COMMUNIT Y The Only Locally Owned News & Adver tising Media in Vegreville .

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Heritage House Christmas Tea Fundraiser EQUIPMENT LEASING Now Open in our New Vegreville Office!

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We Finance & Lease New & Used Equipment Above: Attendees enjoying the event.

Left: L-R: Winnie Zakordonski with Tracy Benoit.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photos)

Rosanne Fortier

News Correspondent

There were 75 attendees at this event which was nestled in fun and fellowship with a door prize, raffle

prizes, 50/50 draw, tea and coffee, and lemon and strawberry shortcake on Dec. 6.

Recreation Aide Kristen Gusnowski explained, “We hosted

this event to raise funds for our Residents and Family Council. A large part of the proceeds will be used for outdoor annual flowers, and for the flowers on the tables we used for the tea recreation project as well as Christmas gifts for residents and entertainment.”

Jo-Anne Fried, President of Resident and Family Council, said they do not want to disclose how much funds were generated but from the spring tea and the Christmas tea, they made a generous amount of money which will meet all their requirements for what they need to purchase.

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DECember 13, 2023

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WHAT’S INSIDE Agriculture ................... 12 Business.......................... 5 Classifieds .................... 14 Community ............. 14-15 Employment............ 10-11 Family ........................... 18 Letters........................... 13 Marketplace ................. 17 Notices ......................... 13 Real Estate ................... 19 School News ................ 10 Tributes ........................ 16 Upcoming....................... 8

Super-Heavy Mega Load Travels Through Two Hills A super-heavy mega load made its way from Dacro in Edmonton to Suncor plant near Fort McMurray. The mega load was parked at the Two Hills scale on Dec. 5 before heading out the following day. According to the Government of Alberta, the large piece of industrial equipment that was moved measured 8.7 metres wide, 10.2 meters high, 47 metres long, weighed 483,000 kilograms and was carried by a trailer with 352 wheels.

(Peter Robitaille/Submitted Photo)

Santa Claus Food Drive Page 14

New Advocacy Role for Taneen Rudyk Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

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4-DAY WEATHER Thurs.

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Municipalities Conventions given my experience advocating for municipalities with FCM and for my understanding of council functionality.”

Vegreville Mayor Tim MacPhee said Rudyk’s role will be in government relations with Alberta Counsel. “With Taneen’s extensive background through FCM, she’ll be helping other municipalities learn how to negotiate when it comes to different levels of government and how to get their issues in front of other elected officials.”

Taneen’s extensive background through FCM, she’s helping other municipalities learn how to negotiate when it comes to different levels of government and how to get their issues in front of other elected officials.

Alberta Counsel also hired Barry Morishita as Senior Counsel. He served as President of the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association from 20172021 and served as a Councillor and Mayor on Brooks City Council.

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Vegreville Councillor Taneen Rudyk will be taking on a new advocacy role.

She has just been hired on as an Associate with the Alberta Counsel, an Edmonton based company that provides legal and lobbyist services.

Rudyk is currently Past-President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and has served with the FCM board of directors since 2017. She was first elected to Vegreville town council in 2010 and continues to serve in that capacity. Most recently, she ran as the Alberta NDP candidate in the Constituency of Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville.

Remarking on her recent appointment, Rudyk stated, “I am looking forward to continuing my work as a municipal advocate with the Alberta Counsel team.

Having the opportunity to work more closely with our neighbours across the province and to help them at the provinDon’t Drink & Drive

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cial level is something I am excited about.”

Rudyk has been hired on a part-time basis, and said, “it will have no impact on my ability to carry out my work for the residents of Vegreville.” She also pointed out that the Town of Vegreville is not a current client of Alberta Counsel.

She added, “I’m excited to work more closely with other municipalities and build new relationships that I can bring back to my work on council.”

Rudyk said her work with Alberta Counsel will vary from client to client, “but I will be focused predominately on helping municipalities navigate the intricacies of provincial bureaucracy and bringing a new layer of experience to the Alberta Counsel team. The team works with dozens of municipalities of all sizes all across the province.”

Previously, Rudyk said, “The firm (Alberta Counsel) recruited me to work with them when we met at the Rural Municipalities Association and Alberta

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BUYING LOCAL is like GIFTING TWICE You’re not only supporting a friend, a neighbor or family member, you’re helping them share the love they have with those they care for. Many businesses support our community and provide quality services and products, while also providing personal customer experiences.

As we support our local businesses, we support community growth and expansion.

So you’re not only giving a gift to a family member, you’re giving a gift to the community.

Thanks for shopping in Vegreville.

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OK Tire 780-632-2388 Perry’s Pizza 780-632-6300 Prime Cuts Meat & Deli 780-632-6149 RJV Gas Field Services 780-632-7774 Regent Health 780-632-2141 Rocky Mountain Equipment 780-632-6677 Synergy CPA’s 780-632-6788 The Brick Vegreville 780-632-6100 Twin Lakes Ready Mix & Aggregates 780-632-7787 Vantage Builders / Rona 780-632-3422 / 780-632-2119 Vegreville Auto Body 780-632-2445 Vegreville & District Co-op 780-632-2884 Vegreville Dental Centre 780-632-3368

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VEGREVILLE NEWS ADVERTISER LTD. 5110 - 50 Street Box 810 Vegreville, AB T9C 1R9 Phone 780-632-2861 Fax 780-632-7981 Toll Free 1-800-522-4127 Sales@newsadvertiser.com Ads@newsadvertiser.com

DECember 13, 2023

COP 28. Another Year, Another Farce Arthur Beaudette

News Advertiser – Opinion

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Published every Wednesday at Vegreville, Alberta by The Vegreville News Advertiser Ltd.

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By the time you read this, COP28, this year’s United Nations (UN) climate change conference in Dubai will have wrapped up and thousands (yes thousands) of people will be jetting back home ready to save the planet… again.

Interestingly, the conference is hosted this year in Abu Dhabi and the conference president was Sultan Al Jaber who happens to be CEO of the state-owned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company.

Now the COP meetings have always been rife with hypocrisy and irony, but it’s almost like this year, they needed to cash in all their coupons before time ran out.

Prior to the conference, Al Jaber stated that there is “no science” that phasing out fossil fuels will keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius which is the goal set for the Paris climate agreement. Al Jaber also said a phase-out of fossil fuels would not allow sustainable development “unless you want to take the world back into caves”.

I’m not agreeing nor disagreeing with Al Jaber’s statements, but simply having him sit in that seat…with the United Arab Emirates being one of the world’s leading oil producers is, shall we say…curious.

A group called Kick Big Polluters Out (KBPO) is a coalition of more than 450 organizations across the globe demanding an

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Olha Koval Data Entry Clerk/Office Assistant

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Michelle Pinon Reporter

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

end to the ability of Big Polluters being involved in writing the rules for climate action. In the early days of COP28 KBPO released a report stating that at least 2,456 fossil fuel lobbyists had been granted access to the conference. Stating that their numbers are conservative because of the way lobbyists are registered. A few notes from their report: - The 2,456 fossil fuel lobbyists are only outnumbered by the 3,081 delegates from Brazil and 4,409 from the UAE. - Lobbyists received more passes to COP28 than ALL the delegates from the ten nations listed as most climate vulnerable combined whose numbers came to 1,509.

- There were more than seven times the fossil fuel lobbyists permitted entry than official Indigenous representatives at 316.

- France and Italy brought fossil fuel giants as part of their country delegations.

In the two years prior, there were 636 lobbyists registered (Egypt) and 503 (Glasgow).

One of the items agreed upon during the COP28 conference was to establish a fund to help combat the damage caused by climate change. Initial work on this fund started in Egypt (COP27). Eighteen countries have pledged money to the fund however, like anything involving decision by committee, there are still plenty of details to sort out.

Both India and China are suggesting that they should receive money from the fund because they have areas of their population vulnerable to climate change. This is one of those things that deserves a “facepalm.”

First off, China is listed at the world’s largest polluter with 10,065 million tons of CO2 released.

The United States comes in second with a little more than half of that or 5,416 million tons of CO2 released and India is third at 2,654 million tons of CO2 released. If you are curious, Canada is listed at 11th with a paltry 545 million tons of CO2 released (and falling per capita).

Secondly, China and India come in 2nd and 3rd in the race for the most billionaires. China with 689 and India with 237.

While this is not a correlation in any way to climate or carbon emissions, it could speak to a country’s ability to pay into something like a climate change fund. For example, the UAE pledged $100 million to the fund. A drop in the bucket if the billionaires of the country banded together. Additionally, China is rated 2nd in the world in GDP and India 5th.

Will COP28 result in meaningful change while not creating worldwide havoc? Only time will tell, but if there is not enough consensus to put humanity over profit, it’s just another meeting.

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

Name: Al Belzile Occupation: retired chef Likes: golf, hockey Dislikes: liars, cheaters 2017 Advertising & Editorial Excellence Award Winner

2017

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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, along with writer's signature and photo I D. Anonymous letters will not be printed.

The Vegreville News Advertiser Ltd. reserves the right to edit letters for length (recommended length is 150 words), clarity, spelling and grammar, taste or for reasons of potential libel. The Vegreville News Advertiser Ltd. will publish letters without bias, but reserves the right to withhold letters from publication.

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KUZYK LAW OFFICE

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Vegreville Co-op Holiday Entertainment Gala Rosanne Fortier

News Correspondent

L-R: Alma Labbao, Jeff Frank, Laura Hewko, Sherley Jorge.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Most of the tables at the Social Centre were filled as people enjoyed the delicious meal.

Vegreville and District Co-op hosted their Holiday Entertaainment Gala event on December 5 which was a Christmas food wonderland with samples and free draws to win gift certificates.

Food Manager Erik Tompkins said this event was meant to get people in to sample some of their products to show what they can use for holiday entertaining.

Donna Deal who attended this gala for the first time said she thought it was fantastic. “I enjoyed every bit of it. The food samples were very good and the staff from the Co-op were extremely friendly.”

Christmas at Maddigan Chrysler

successful turnout where the community’s generosity filled the truck and most importantly the hearts of so many.

To emphasize the power of giving, we offered an enticing ‘Donate 2 Win’ incentive where a non-perishable food item and/or new, unwrapped toy would give people a chance to win $250 in grocery gift certificates.

The added incentive not only encourages giving but also makes the act of generosity even more rewarding.

Donated items will be distributed to the Vegreville Christmas Bureau ensuring that families facing challenges receive support during the holiday season.”

Staff from L-R: Tamara Lightfoot, Glenn Wiebe, Santa, Bobbi Bouchier, Natasia Durrer.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Rosanne Fortier

News Correspondent

There was a lot of action at Maddigan on December 1.

When asked, Coordinator Natasia Durrer explained, “We initiated our first annual “Fill-A-Truck” Toy/Food drive from November 24th to December 8th to strengthen our sense of community and address the needs of those less fortunate.

We strongly believe in giving back to the community that continues to support us.

The holidays are a time of gratitude and compassion, and we want to leverage our resources to unite the community and make a meaningful contribution.

To kick start our festivities, Maddigan

hosted a Food & Toy Christmas Party.

Highlights included Santa arriving for a visit surrounded by many friendly faces, freshly baked cookies, and coffee and hot chocolate. The Fill-a-Truck party had a

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DECember 13, 2023

FROM THE PAGES OF THE VEGREVILLE OBSERVER COMPILED BY DAN BEAUDETTE

90 Years Ago – December 13, 1933

Meals are suspended in the Victory Café for about a week pending repairs to the building made necessary by an early morning fire on Tuesday. The blaze is said to have originated from faulty wiring in the kitchen, which put all the woodwork out of commission in that department and also made havoc in the upstairs, where George Kitsos and five companions roost at night. Smoke damage to the confectionery and other stock carried in the café.

Roman Gabrisch has been appointed village constable and night watchman for Ryley.

A few farmers have taken advantage of the 50c price allowed for No. 2 Nor. Wheat in store in district elevators. Owing to the condition of the country roads, it is doubtful whether much wheat is being delivered these days, so the offer will hold good indefinitely.

Victor Schultz was the very fortunate winner of the radio raffled by the community of Lavoy last Friday night. We are glad Victor won it because we know he will make excellent use of it.

75 Years Ago – December 15, 1948

The local fire brigade responded Tuesday night to another of those alarms which don’t amount to anything. Nick Kleryluk’s garage supposedly broke out in flames but was quickly doused with a bucket of snow or two before the local smoke-eaters got there.

Manufacture of propane gas in commercial quantities started in Canada for the first time recently with the official opening of the Western Propane Ltd., of Calgary plant in the Turner Valley oil field.

A new species of mosquito has been discovered by a scientist. It’s a new species all right if it had to be discovered.

Alberta farmers have been advised by N.E. Tanner, provincial minister of lands and mines, that the government has declared a season on muskrats in all parts of the province, outside of registered traplines, from 12 noon, March 1, 1949, until midnight, May 14, 1949.

Britain received 1,318 displaced persons in October, bringing to 77,948 the number of displaced persons resettled in the United Kingdom. Canada was second with a total resettlement of 43,179 displaced persons going to the Dominion in October.

The Alberta School Trustees Association has undertaken a job of considerable proportions. At its recent convention in Edmonton, the association committed itself, by resolution, “to elevate the standards of behavior” of school students.

50 Years Ago – December 6, 1973

Following a period of difficulty in getting into operation the “Cow Palace” was made operative this week for skating and hockey activities. The conversion of the livestock pavilion to give it a dual role in the community was accomplished through the utilization of government grants. The building is now used to supplement the ice time at the Recreation Centre in the winter and as a show barn by the Vegreville Exhibition Association in the summer.

In a detailed submission presented to the Hon. Eugene Whelan, Don Mazankowski, M.P. for Vegreville, asked that the Federal Department of Agriculture give consideration to expanding and upgrading the facilities and resources of the Vegreville Solonetz Soil Substation.

On November 26th, the big night came for the nine girls who were enrolled as Brownies. They were Karen Homeniuk, Wanda Tymchuk, Pamela Homan, Jerry Barr, Joan Marie Tarapacki, Karen Svarich, Dawn Tompson, Tabetha Fedoruk, and Michelle Kitteringham. The eight girls enrolled as Girl Guides were: Donna Monroe, Laura Semotiuk, Coleen Schulte, Shelly Russ, Tracy Wilson, Wendy Toma, Tina Rattlemaker, and Loretta Paranich.

Years wrinkle the skin, but lack of enthusiasm wrinkles the soul.

25 Years Ago – December 15, 1998

Joyce Stewart of the Vegreville Legion branch 39 makes their annual donation to Sherry Boyko of the Christmas Bureau. The $800.00 donation comes from monies raised from Legion Bingos and other gaming. Also, Opal Gafka representing the Vegreville Food Bank received a donation of $500.00 from Joyce.

The Blue Sky’s staff took a bite out of Christmas! Sheila Steinbach, Rich Voltner, and owner Keith Carver presented Treasurer Bonnie Litwin of the Christmas Bureau with a donation. The Social Club donated $150.00 which was matched by Blue Sky’s donation of $200.00 worth of food and $100.00 cash Katie Markowsky and Gary Zuk representing RJV Gasfield Services Ltd. accept a certificate of appreciation from Vegreville Elks Exalted Ruler Jim Davis and Arthur Ziegler, Elks Park President. RJV provided the equipment and manpower to replace the Elk onto its base. At the same time, Hugh Ziprick and Jim Davis of Vantage Builders received a plaque for donating the equipment and manpower to remove the vandalized elk from the park.

In a recent County of Two Hills meeting, the administrator Gary Popowich informed the council that a new 1998 Tandem truck was purchased from Northern Mack Sales Inc. for the price of $91,140 plus GST.

Letters Welcomed

One role of the Vegreville News Advertiser is to promote dialogue on various issues of concern to area residents. We accomplish this by welcoming Letters to the Editor and allowing various issues to be debated through our pages. All letters must contain the writer’s name, address and phone number. Anonymous letters will not be printed, however the writer’s name may be withheld from publication in special circumstances deemed appropriate by the Publisher.

The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to edit letters for length, clarity, spelling and grammar, taste or for reasons of potential libel. A maximum of 150 words is preferred. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to withhold letters from publication.

Alberta Takes a Bold Stand Against Pandemic Overreach Barry Cooper

University of Calgary

The COVID-19 pandemic – and the official responses to it – left no person, group or country unaffected: lost learning from school closures, crushed businesses and ruined lives occurred everywhere, on top of the actual disease deaths.

Yet the governments and organizations that designed and oversaw the emergency’s “management” proved decidedly incurious about determining whether they even did a good job, and what might be done differently next time. The UK and Sweden are among the few countries to have undertaken formal national inquiries.

In Canada, the Trudeau government refused calls for a public inquiry, likely because it feared what any investigation – let alone a royal commission – would turn up. Every Canadian province has aped Trudeau’s indolence, except Alberta. Early this year the province created the Public Health Emergencies Governance Review Panel, fulfilling a promise Danielle Smith made before she became premier, to “review the legislation and governance practices” used during the management of public emergencies and to recommend improvements.

In mid-November the Panel – a distinguished group that included two medical academics, two senior economists and a former justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, in addition to chair Preston Manning – produced a densely written Final Report (367 pages including appendices). Though hysterically criticized

by Alberta’s NDP opposition and its

friends in the government-funded media, the Panel has rendered valuable and, indeed, unparalleled public service.

There is nothing else like this Panel’s work in Canada or anywhere in North America.

Two categories of the Final Report’s many recommendations appear the most remarkable. One calls for decisively restoring the management of future emergencies, including any pandemic, to the Alberta Emergency Management Agency (AEMA), under the policy direction of the elected government. The other aims to protect individual rights to free expression and open inquiry for professionals, academics and ordinary citizens against out-of-control officials and organizations intent on cancelling unorthodox analyses and opinions.

Recall that in spring 2020, a panic-stricken Alberta government turned over responsibility for managing the COVID-19 event to a narrowly trained M.D. who quickly became known as “Alberta’s top doctor” and was handed effective life-or-death authority over numerous areas she knew nothing about. Why Deena Hinshaw ended up in charge and why existing emergency management procedures were ignored have never been explained.

The AEMA had been established in 2005 in the wake of the 9/11 attacks to prepare for various emergencies, including an anticipated influenza pandemic. The agency was designed and would be staffed by individuals who specialize in emergencies. Emergency management efforts would not be directed by narrow “subject-matter experts” specializing in the specific attributes of an anticipated emergency’s cause, such as influenza. The AEMA’s

Pandemic overreach - CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

Every time a newspaper dies, even a bad one, the country moves a little closer to authoritarianism...

- Richard Kluger -

DECember 13, 2023

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THESE COMMUNITY SPONSORS URGE YOU TO CELEBRATE RESPONSIBLY FOR A SAFE & HOLIDAY SEASON

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CELEBRATE RESPONSIBLY

ARRIVE SAFELY END IMPAIRED DRIVING Every year, the festive season is sadly overshadowed by car accidents that could have been avoided. A large percentage of collisions involve drivers who have been drinking over the legal limit or taking drugs.

Plan ahead! No one wants to be part of another statistic or have someone’s death on their conscience for the rest of their life. In 2024, there are no excuses for driving under the influence.

You have plenty of choices to avoid putting your own safety and that of others at risk.

Be Prepared: It’s widely known that drugs and alcohol impair your judgement. Despite this reality, some individuals who’ve consumed these substances may believe they’re fit to drive when actually they’re not. In short, if you’ve had any amount of alcohol or smoked or ingested cannabis, its not safe to rely on your own judgement.

Here are a few options to consider for a safe holiday season and new year: •Call a taxi.

•Designate a non-drinking person to drive you home.

•Use a designited driver service.

•Arrange to sleep at the party venue or stay somewhere within walking distance.

Have a safe and happy holiday season!

PAGE 8 News Advertiser

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DECember 13, 2023

Creative Xmas

Rosanne Fortier

News Correspondent

A Christmas Art and Craft Fair was offered on Dec. 8, 9 and 10 at Vegreville Elks Hall.

Rose Woycheshyn and Jocelyn Hryniw coordinated this event that had a total of 18 vendors.

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“This was our best sale ever because I believe people are starting to know about this fair. We sold the most that we ever did. We had a few new vendors. People gave us so many compliments on how nice it looked and how easy it was to shop. They really like that no one was sitting at a table and they were very comfortable walking around looking at the items and visiting.

We had something for everybody. It was the vendors who really made it a success; people are just talented and very creative here. A handcrafted gift means more because it is created from the heart,” said Woycheshyn.

Hryniw commented that they had close to 200 people attend.

People of all ages enjoying the fair. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos)

Vegreville Farmers' Market Elk’s Hall 5022- 55 ave.

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS MARKETS FRIDAYS, DECEMBER 8, 15, 22 8:30 AM - 1 PM

Christmas Angels

LAST 2023 MARKET - FRI. DEC 22 MARKET CLOSED JANUARY, FEBRUARY & MARCH MARKET RESUMES MARCH 22, 2024 For More info call 780-632-2743

Surprise your Christmas Angels with their picture in our December 27, 2023 publication!

Here's how it works: Mail, e-mail, submit via the website or drop off your photograph to

Joseph

5 months

Christmas Angels C/O VNA P.O. Box 810 Vegreville, Alberta T9C 1R9

Parents: James & Claire Schmoe Grandparents: John & Jane Doe Dean & Angela Philips

Email: angels@newsadvertiser.com Submit via www.newsadvertiser.com Drop in at 5110 - 50 Street

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31 years, 30 years Kids: Tom, Richard & Harry Bloggs Parents: Tom & Mary Bloggs Harriette & Paul Smith

*Complete form & attach photo *$40 per picture for processing *Include a self-addressed stamped envelope so the picture may be returned or stop by our office to pick up your photo after Publication of the issue. *All Christmas Angel pictures must be prepaid *Deadline to submit photographs is December 13, 2023.

*Note* Due to space limitations, any information other than what is represented in the form below may not be published. Also, please make sure the angels are close together in your submitted photos for the best results.

Name: Parents' Names: Grandparents' Names:

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DECember 13, 2023

News Advertiser PAGE 9

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Waiting for Christmas

every Christmas, and that we have in our homes is more than a feel-good bible story. It is the story of God fulfilling His promises. God promised that a babe was coming and that a Messiah was coming to earth and that day came and God continues to promise that a day is coming when everything wrong will be made right.”

8

Above: The choir.

Left: Lead Pastor Darren Driedger.

Right: Jeanny Ekvall performs a solo.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photos)

Rosanne Fortier

News Correspondent

Vegreville Alliance Church (VAC) presented this musical on December 8, 9, and 10. This production included new and traditional Christmas songs, a narrative of Jesus’ birth, enveloped with a small skit about a young girl writing a letter to her grandmother while she waited to visit her.

Director Joan James said they started practicing weekly in September. “We have a lot of fun singing together. We start learning a few of the songs and then we put them together and we incorporate the acting in as well. Usually, our actors work separately but this time, there wasn’t a huge part of acting involved. I wasn’t able to find a musical with much acting in it this year.

Most people who participate say that the best part about taking part in this is it tells the story of

You get better quality and freshness

Christmas and Christmas is such a huge part of all our lives as Christians. It is about Christ coming and family and friends getting together to celebrate His birth.”

A first-time choir member Gabriel Perepeletza mentioned that she enjoyed being a part of it. “I had fun performing. I got to know a lot of nice people. I liked everything about it.”

Attendee Brittany Topechka said this was her first time attending. “I liked how the choir sang beautifully. There were songs I recognized and some that were new to me. It was simple but very nice.”

Lead Pastor Darren Driedger stated Christmas is a season for waiting. “When we get to be an adult, something within our hearts waits for peace, hope, joy, and love. There is only one person who can bring all of that out, and that is Jesus. The Christmas story that we are so familiar with, that we read

When it comes to festive feasting, fresh, unprocessed food tastes better and has a higher nutritional value than mass-produced goods that have been sitting on your grocery shelves. From farm-to-table produce to fresh-from-the-oven delicacies, your local producers, farmers and artisans take pride in making your festive goodies the talk of the town.

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Vegreville News Advertiser

PAGE 10 News Advertiser

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DECember 13, 2023

EIPS Principal Discusses Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at VCHS

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Vegreville Composite High School (VCHS) was one of two schools in Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) to receive a special presentation on diversity, equity and inclusion by Sherwood Heights Junior High School Principal Amit Mali.

The session teaches students how racist thoughts, attitudes and behaviours come to be and how they affect people. Mali draws from his own experiences attending and working at EIPS schools.

“I weave my own story with racism throughout the presentation from when I first experienced it in kindergarten to now. I used to think I didn’t experience a lot of racism until I made this presentation and reflected on my past.”

The presentation details the process of how stereotypes start as ideas that transform into prejudiced feelings— these prejudices can then turn into discriminatory actions. Mali also defines key terms, such as codeswitching, microaggression and unconscious bias.

“Racism can be hard for me to talk about as an adult. I know it’s even more difficult as a kid in school. I wanted to give students an opportunity to discuss it openly and give it a voice.”

He went on to say, “At the end of one of my presentations I had a student come up to me and tell me how much it meant to them—to feel seen, to know someone else had gone through the same things they had gone through.

That’s why I’m doing this.”

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remarked that, “His, (Mr. Mali’s) story resonates with mine, like all the millions of other minority students across Canada facing these challenges, these types of presentations need to be heard by everyone. His presentation is the beginning to our society’s success with diversity.”

VCHS Staff Member Karissa Sydor said, “Mr. Mali’s presentation brought a much needed perspective on racism to the students of Vegreville Composite. It was a great introduction to the challenges minority students, across EIPS, are facing on a daily basis. We look forward to having him in again to continue this important conversation in a more intimate setting. The hope is to create a safe place for students to learn more about racism and what they can do to positively affect change in their school and community.”

Mali will visit Clover Bar Junior High, École Parc Éléméntaire, Sherwood Heights Junior High and F.R. Haythorne Junior High next. He’s also been asked to speak at a school outside of the Division in Smoky Lake.

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Amit Mali during a recent presentation at VCHS. (Elk Island Public Schools/ Submitted Photo)

Sales Person Part-Time/Casual Positions Also Available Duties include developing and maintaining customer relations in person and by phone and filling out paperwork for customer orders.

The successful applicant will have excellent people and organizational skills.

Hours are flexible. Sales/Customer Service experience an asset, on going training provided.

If you are interested in working in a fast paced environment with a great group of people, please apply with a resume and references to:

Vegreville News Advertiser P.O. Box 810 5110-50 Street Vegreville, Alberta T9C 1R9 E-Mail: hr@newsadvertiser.com Due to the volume of submissions, only those requested for an interview will be contacted. We appreciate everyone’s time.

Local businesses often have big hearts and love to give back to their community.

When you shop within your region, your dollars do double duty. You support commerce in your community directly, while indirectly supporting local charities and community groups that get their funding from the donations of private businesses.

News Advertiser PAGE 11

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DECember 13, 2023

Myrnam Fire Department Hosts Truck Parade

The Myrnam Fire Department gave Santa Claus a trip around town on Dec. 2 to bring smiles and brighten spirits of residents. They even made a special stop at Eagle View Lodge to visit the seniors.

(Myrnam Fire Department/Submitted Photos)

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A Showcase of Jesus’ Birth

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Specialized Cleaner Attendees singing at the carol sing-a-long. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

DUTIES ● Trailer Washing & Detailing, Internal Tank Cleaning Nativitie displays from around the world. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Rosanne Fortier

News Correspondent

The Second Annual Community Nativity Festival was offered at Vegreville United Church on Dec. 1 and 2. This event was co-sponsored by St. Mary’s the Virgin Anglican Church and Vegreville United Church.

Rev. Laureta Blondin explained, “There were more than 200 nativities that also included posters, quilts, decorative wall plates, and wall picture hangings. There were even a few nativities that were child-friendly.

The angels’ display was added because

some of the event planners thought they would be a nice addition and something a little different from last year’s event.

One of the highlights was the presence of Mrs. Claus (Mrs. Janet Hopchin) who was handing out candy canes to everyone.

Another highlight was that we had visitors come from as far away as Edmonton, Sherwood Park, Ardrossan, Mannville, Two Hills and Bruce to see the displays.”

Carol singing was led by Lisa Topilko and Jim Bragg on Dec. 1 and was led by Ellen Johnstone and Rev. Blondin on Dec. 2.

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PAGE 12 News Advertiser

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DECember 13, 2023

Growing for STARS Project Raises $20,000

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser It was another successful growing season for the Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service (STARS) project for the Derwent Fire Department (DFD) and the individuals, organizations and companies who supported the annual fundraiser which netted $20,000.

In terms of community support, cash donations from fire department members and community members totaled $11,802.

In-kind donations, mostly from fire department members who donated their time and equipment, equaled $17,307.

Derwent Fire Department members and an aerial view of harvest in early October.

(Derwent Fire Department/Submitted Photo)

Altogether, $20,000 was donated to STARS. According to DFD statistics, “This year’s canola crop averaged 44.77 bushels per acre. A total of 21 acres were harvested.”

STARS Community Engagement Officer Shannon Paquette was on hand to accept the cheque during a special presentation at the DFD on Nov. 30.

The DFD got involved in the Growing for STARS project after members saw an ad on Twitter stating that STARS had an opportunity to support them. With a strong agricultural industry and having worked directly with STARS previously, DFD

Across the barren landscape northeast of Viking this windmill stands tall, a solitary figure set against the December sky.

(Michelle Pinon/ Photo)

members wanted to give back, and have done for the past several years.

STARS is a charitable non-profit organization which provides critical care throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

It is funded by individuals, organizations, businesses, event partners and governments. STARS first mission took place in 1985 and since then it has flown more than 55,000 missions across Western Canada.

STARS currently operates six bases. In 2022-23 fiscal year (April-March) there were a total of 1,650 missions in Alberta.

Windmill in Time

7-DAY WEATHER Weekly Crop Market Review

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News Advertiser PAGE 13

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DECember 13, 2023

6

“Keep your English!”

Dear Editor, After the Montreal Alouettes won the Grey Cup a Montreal player yells, “Keep your English!”

I was absolutely shocked to see that on the morning news. What an idiotic comment. I would say, stupid and completely unnecessary! Oh! But wait just a minute!

I should realize that the particular players must have had several head hits or even a few concussions! Too bad stupidity isn’t painful!

Pat Dehid - Two Hills Hello Pat. Thanks for writing. Yes, that was a little shocking, but does need some context. For the previous game (Eastern final) that Montreal played, there was a stark lack of French signage at the game for fans and French in the Canadian anthem was omitted. This was quite likely used as fuel to fire the team up. Lastly… I’m sure we’ve all heard young people say worse during an emotional moment. He just happened to be in front of the camera. -AB

THANK YOU ���� ���� ������� � ������

The Two Hills Minor Ball Association would like to thank the Alexander Boida Memorial Park organization for the generous donation. The funds will go towards equipment purchases and diamond maintenance in the upcoming ball season.

You embrace and express local culture Your local businesses are an organic reflection of the rich cultural heritage that makes your community unique. When you choose gifts designed and created by local makers, you celebrate and elevate the culture and the people who share it with the world.

What better way to preserve your unique traditions, crafts and foods than to buy locally.

Pictured are Peter Bateyko, representing Alexander Boida Memorial Park, and Melanie Zayak, representing Two Hills Minor Ball.

Festive Celebration in Viking

Sisters Brinley and Kealey Dufault visiting Santa.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Participants enjoying public skating at the Carena.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

REMEMBER

Santa smiles with gingerbread character before the start of the parade. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser The festive season is in full swing and the Town of Viking hosted a memorable fun-filled evening for residents and visitors alike on Dec. 8.

The festivities kicked-off with the Christmas Lights Parade. Vehicles lined all of Main Street to get a glimpse of the beautifully decorated and illuminated floats, vehicles and several four legged critters.

The focus then shifted to the Carena where complimentary donuts, hot dogs, chips and pop were served to festival goers. Will Ryan and his music students entertained the large crowd that was in attendance. Santa Claus visited with the children and many people enjoyed skating during the event. Horse and wagon rides were supplied as well for festival goers.

WITHDRAWAL OF FARMLAND FOR SALE BY TENDER

we have an EARLY DEADLINE for our December 27th issue

WEDNESDAY, Dec 20th at 5PM

TAKE NOTICE THAT the Invitation for Tenders regarding:

ANNUAL SMALL BUSINESS DECLARATION

A. NW-27-52-17-W4 – Contains 160 Acres More or Less

YOUR BUSINESS COULD BE ELIGIBLE FOR A PREFERENTIAL TAX RATE ON YOUR 2024 TOWN OF VEGREVILLE TAX LEVY

B. NW-34-52-17-W4 – Contains 147.89 Acres More or Less • Excludes 12.11 acre yard site as advertised in the September 5, September 27, and November 1, 2023 editions of the Vegreville News Advertiser is hereby withdrawn.

The lands will not be sold by tender.

WHO QUALIFIES? Properties eligible for the small business sub-class are those that are owned or leased by a business who: Operate under a valid business licence or have proof of an approved business licence exemption from the Town of Vegreville; Employ fewer than 50 full-time employees within Canada as of November 30 of the preceding tax year; and Generate active business income from its operations.

HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR DECLARATION: The completed forms can be emailed to propertytaxes@vegreville.com OR delivered or mailed to the Town of Vegreville at 4829-50 Street, PO Box 640, Vegreville, AB T9C 1R7. Small Business Declarations must be completed and submitted by 4:30 PM on December 29, 2023.

IMPORTANT: ELIGIBLE BUSINESSES MUST COMPLETE THE SMALL BUSINESS DECLARATION ON AN ANNUAL BASIS.

PAGE 14 News Advertiser

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DECember 13, 2023

Two Hills Emergency Services Santa Claus Food Drive

Fire Chief Marj Skoropadyk, Santa Claus and food drive volunteers.

(Michaelas Photography/Submitted Photo)

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Members of the Two Hills Fire Department, Medavie EMS Services and members of the 2024 Two Hills School graduating class participated in the annual

emergency services Santa Claus Food Drive the evening of Dec. 10.

Two Hills Fire Chief Marj Skoropadyk said they managed to collect 400 kilograms of non-perishable food, unwrapped toys and cash donations during the charity

drive. All of the items go to Two Hills Family & Community Support Services that supplies Christmas hampers to community members who are in need of assistance.

Santa Claus being escorted through the streets of Two Hills during the food drive.

(Michaelas Photography/ Submitted Photo)

Truck full of donations.

(Michaelas Photography/Submitted Photo)

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DECember 13, 2023

Advent Celebration

of this, her family decided to bless us with Li’s grand piano and we are dedicating a plaque for this which will be at this church.”

Attendees gave their impressions of the performances. Jennie Johnson mentioned that the music was heartwarming, beautiful and uplifting. “The choir and the children expressed the songs well. It was a pleasure to listen to them singing.”

Frank Albert commented that they put a lot of work into their performances. “They tightened up things and did a nice job.”

St. John’s Lutheran Choir and Friends.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Rosanne Fortier

News Correspondent

An array of Christmas musical performances were enjoyed by 101 attendees at St. John’s Lutheran Church on Dec. 10.

Coordinator Colleen Albert said she had a lot of helpers to make this event happen. “We are so grateful to Debra GiebelhausMaloney, our guest conductor coming up from Calgary to do practices for the performers.”

The accompanists and soloists were: Kryshtyna Kahut, Colleen

Albert, Lisa Topilko, Viola BraunFox and Laura Lillies.

Choir members were: Colleen Albert, Terry Baydala, Emily Booth, Viola Braun-Fox, Martha Die, Julie Kim, Laura Lillies, Elizabeth Nawrot, Tim Nawrot, Julie Thompson, Lisa Topilko, Becky Yurko, Ashley Ziprick, Hugh Ziprick and Linda Ziprick.

Vegreville Youth Ensemble members were: Brendan Lusk, Cayden Lusk, Emma Mullett, Mary-Katherine Prestash, Matthew Prestash, Scarlett

Randhue and Scott Yurko.

Ashley Ziprick led the attendees with the sing-along.

The highlight of the evening was the memorial plaque presentation which Colleen Albert stated that the church has a new instrument courtesy of the Giebelhaus family. “Do you remember Dan and Elizabeth (Li) Giebelhaus?

Li was the first president of the Wendy Brook Music Festival and both of them were so involved in the community. Li passed away on December 9, 2022, and because

Nativity of Jesus

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Phone: 780-632-2861 Fax: 780-632-7981 5110 - 50 St. Vegreville Email: ads@newsadvertiser.com

Beautiful Nativity scene adjacent to Highway 36 in the Town of Viking. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

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PAGE 16 News Advertiser

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DECember 13, 2023

Tributes MEMORIAM

MEMORIAM

MEMORIAM

MEMORIAM

Susan Halabut September 25, 1932 - December 11, 2013 If roses grow in Heaven Lord please pick a bunch for me Place them in my Mother’s arms And tell her they’re from me Tell her that I love her And miss her And when she turns to smile Place a kiss upon her cheek And hold her for awhile.

Always in our thoughts Forever in our hearts Elaine & Randy, Jordon, Amy & Quinn, Blayke, Logan, Janelle, Wade & John, Jaycee

David Wayne Lotoski May 17, 1959 - December 14, 2021 The lights in town seemed very dim.

On the day that we lost him.

I don’t know was God’s choice right.

Vegreville’s lights will never shine as bright.

Alex, Deb, and Family

DIACHUK, Donna July 8, 1944 - December 13, 2021 In Loving Memory of a dear wife & mother God knew that she was suffering That the hills were hard to climb, So he closed her weary eyelids And whispered, “Peace be thine.”

Away in the beautiful hills of God, By the valley of rest so fair, Some day we know not when, We will meet our loved one there.

Love always, Clarence, Trifon, Robyn Kim, Ken, & family

RAWLUK, Terry It broke our hearts to lose you, But you didn’t go alone.

For part of me went with you The day God called you home.

It’s so lonely here without you For you’re spending Christmas In Heaven this year.

Forever loved and sadly missed by Loving mother Edna and brother Dale

In loving memory of David Stuart 1954 – 2010 Time passes very quickly for some of us here, For us it’s been thirteen long years.

Thirteen years since you were with us and able to share, Your laughter and bad jokes that were bad but we didn’t care.

Your warmth, your wisdom all the things that had to be said, Your embraces in times of sorrow and your love in the life that we led.

We miss you more and think of you often with each passing day, And wish you were still here to help and lead us as we make our way.

We can take solace in knowing that you are free of pain, But it’s been our great loss and Heaven’s big gain.

So as another comes and slowly goes by, Remember our love for you is Eternal and will never die.

Missed and still loved by Leanne, Jennifer and Hector, Jacquie and Cory, and James and Dorothy

In Loving Memory of David Lotoski May 17, 1959 – December 14, 2021 Our lives go on without you But nothing is the same Sad are the hearts that love you Silent are the tears that fall Living without you is the Hardest part of all.

You did so many things for us Your heart was so kind and true.

And when we needed someone We could always count on you.

The Special years will not return When we are all together But with the love in our hearts You walk with us forever.

Love Always Dad, Eugene, Shirley & Robert & Family

OBITUARY

CHARCHUK, Nancy In loving memory of our Mother, Auntie, Great Auntie, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother who passed away on December 13, 2022 The day you left and gained your wings, my heart just broke in two.

I wish you could have stayed with me But heaven needed you.

You left me with the memories And love you dearly still No matter how much time goes by You know I always will You were a very special person With kindness in your heart And the love we had together Grows stronger now we’re apart I know I cannot bring you back Although I wish it every day But a piece of me went with you The Day you went away.

In memory of our dear father and grandfather FASEK, William who passed away on December 16, 2016 We little knew that morning that God Was going to call your name.

In life we loved you dearly, In death we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you, You did not go alone, For a part of us went with you, The day God called you home.

You left us peaceful memories; your loss is still our guide; And though we cannot see you, You are always at our side.

Our family chain is broken, And nothing seems the same; But as God calls us one by one, The chain will link again.

Always remembered and loved by Nick Fasek, Gynelle Gagne and family, Todd, Linda, Jasmine and Diesel Fenske and Sandra Fasek

In loving memory of our dear Mother and Baba, Susan Halabut, who sadly left us on December 11, 2013 Thinking of you Mom and missing you More than words could say, For life seemed to change forever On the day you went away.

And this season lost its sparkle Now that you are no longer here, Gone is all the warmth and laughter And those feelings of good cheer.

But each night, there in the distance Shines a brilliant Christmas star, Which is Heaven’s way of showing us Exactly where you are.

Forever In Our Hearts Love – Audrey & Rod, Patie, Sharon & families

In loving memory of Joseph Laschowski November 23, 2009 Mary Laschowski December12, 2021 You rest in the arms of angels In a place of peace and love Watching over us always From Heaven up above You guide us through our worries And help us through each day Always by our side You never went away.

The bond cannot be broken Made from love so pure Death does not break the bond It lives on forever more.

You rest in the arms of angels Free from illness and pain Waiting for the day we are together once again Dearly missed but never forgotten The Laschowski Family

Glen “Earl” Giffin February 8, 1925 - December 4, 2023 On Monday Dec 4, 2023, Glen Earl Giffin of Camrose, AB formerly of Vegreville, AB peacefully passed away at the age of 98 years.

Earl is survived by his loving family of four children Graham (Pat) Giffin, Pat (Joe) Mah, Laurie (Bill) Cameron and David (Tracy) Giffin, 12 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, sister Grayce and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Earl was predeceased by his loving wife Lillian, sister Gladys and his older brother Graham Stephen who perished in WWII. A Funeral Service will be held at the Vegreville United Church on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 1:30 pm. with Pastor Greg Kjos officiating. Private family interment will be held at a later date in Melfort, SK. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the “Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund.”

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, 780-603-5800

EWASKIW, Marshall J. April 24, 1945 – December 11, 2023 On Monday, December 11, 2023, Marshall Ewaskiw of Vegreville, Alberta, peacefully passed away at the age of 78 years.

Marshall is survived by numerous cousins and close friends. He was predeceased by his parents Bill and Anne; and one brother Norman.

A Parastas (Funeral Service) will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Autumn Rose Funeral Home with the Basilian Fathers officiating.

Interment to follow in Riverside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the “Kidney Foundation of Canada.”

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, 780-603-5800

DECember 13, 2023

Snow Day!

News Advertiser PAGE 17

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(Rosanne Fortier/Photos) Bob Bennett.

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Stanley Codner with his dog Riley.

Rosanne Fortier

News Correspondent Many people were out shoveling their walks and driveways while a few children were outside playing in the snow on December 7 in Vegreville as this was the first day if fall 2023 when we got a decent amount of snow.

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This pattern was noted in Global News on December 5 as it was reported that Edmonton had the driest November on record.

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PAGE 18 News Advertiser

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DECember 13, 2023

Filipino Festive Christmas Party Rosanne Fortier

News Correspondent

Coordinator Laura Rarama said 75 attendees at this party at Vegreville Centennial Library on Dec. 9. “I hosted this event to have a gathering for all my friends and families for Christmas as it is an occasion to celebrate the birth of Jesus, who came from heaven to earth to teach us valuable lessons about life and love. It is also a time to be thankful for what you have in your life, whether it be your family, friends, or financial stability. I am grateful to all the sponsors and volunteers who made this event possible.”

This party included Caroline Mockon as the Mistress of Ceremony, Nadeth Palmer presenting the opening prayer, a virtual message by Kreena Balansag, a delightful supper of Filipino foods, regular dishes, and traditional Christmas food, raffle prizes and games, Christmas songs performed by Wayne

Happy Dogs

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(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

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Iowa No palm reading.

The winner for December 13th is

Mia Borromeo playing with a balloon. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Camantigue and Eduard Rarama, as well as, Samantha Rarama singing songs, photos with Santa, a birthday party for Ruth Lim, Renz Rarama, Leidon Ramos, a gift exchange, Karaoke time and dance and closing remarks by Lorelei Lloyd.

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News Advertiser PAGE 19

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DECember 13, 2023

The Festival of Lights

and brighten their lives.

“This year, Hanukkah celebrations for many Jewish families will not be as bright and celebratory. For all those struggling and mourning, we hope that the opportunity to join with family, friends, and community helps overcome some of that darkness.

And we wish you all a future of light, love, peace, and security.

“Chag Hanukkah sameach!”

5 The menorah which Mary’s family lights.

(Mary McCauley-Forrester/Submitted Photo)

You bond with your community

L-R: Benny and Patrick McCauley.

(Mary McCauley-Forrester/Submitted Photo)

Rosanne Fortier

News Correspondent

Hanukkah starts at nightfall on Dec. 7 and continues until Dec. 15. Chabad.org states Hanukkah (Chanukah) is the Jewish eight-day and is usually celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers and fried foods.

When asked how they honour this occasion, Vegreville resident Mary McCauley-Forrester said, “For me personally, I celebrate Hanukkah as a Latter Day Saint Jew. I am ethically Jewish on my mother’s side. I continue to celebrate because of the tradition of my grandmother. She watched 120 members of her family die during WWII and in the Holocaust.

She endured many traumatic experiences during those years and she had to hide her identity and ethnicity to survive even while in Canada. She lost her faith and in return, the family lost our understanding and respect for our traditions and a cycle of intergenerational trauma began to form.

I only discovered my ethnicity in 2017 after an athome DNA test was given to me for Christmas. Since then I have been able to discover who I am and began

a journey to heal my family! I light my menorah every Hanukkah because my grandmother couldn’t!

My family celebrates by lighting the menorah at sunset, reading books to help us understand what the holiday means and remembering our ancestors who came before us! We bake and eat challah bread! I am trying to learn more Jewish recipes both for the holidays and for traditional values but I need a mentor who can help me. Unfortunately, to my knowledge, we are the only Jewish family currently living in Vegreville.”

In a press release from the Alberta Government on December 7, Premier Danielle Smith expressed, “As Hanukkah’s eight days begin, “I would like to send my best wishes to Alberta’s Jewish community.

One of the most widely observed Jewish holidays, Hanukkah for many occurs during the year’s coldest and shortest days.

But Hannukah reminds us that when it is most dark is when light is about to be seen, and that the oil that was supposed to last one day, a small light of hope, miraculously lasted for eight days. And that glow gives us hope and reminds us to reach out to others

When you shop locally, you get to know the human beings that inhabit the streets of your hometown. Local engagement helps build a sense of safety and security within your surroundings. Supporting your local entrepreneurs and artisans is a practical way to build a tight-knit community that knows how to rally together.

Pandemic overreach - CONTINUED from PAGE 6 procedures were like the approach Sweden would apply so successfully against COVID-19.

For the same reason that vulcanologists are not in charge of an emergency response to a volcanic eruption, you shouldn’t put doctors in charge of a province-wide public health emergency. Rather, trained emergency professionals who can adequately assess all areas implicated by a particular emergency – such as the economy – take the lead. The Panel therefore recommended that AEMA be strengthened through stable long-term funding and by clarifying legislation to ensure it is always the lead agency, including when the next big disease hits.

(Others have ably commented on the Final Report’s excellent recommendation that Alberta’s schools should never again be closed except in extremis, and that lockdowns and mass-masking be avoided if at all possible.)

The Report’s second critical group of recommendations concerns the preservation of individual rights, calling for significant legislative changes to a host of laws, including the Alberta Bill of Rights.

The definition of what even constitutes an “emergency” would be significantly tightened. After one is declared, citizens could more easily seek stays of government actions that violate rights and freedoms.

The “right to personal autonomy and integrity”

would be added to the province’s Bill of Rights, along with guarantees of informed consent and freedom from enforced medical treatment.

Employees declining to comply with emergency mandates could be suspended but not permanently fired. Employer vaccine mandates would become a last resort after all other options were exhausted.

A whole section on “Providing Explicit Protection for Freedom of Expression, Academic Freedom and Professional Freedom” calls for legislative changes to prevent institutional censorship by regulated professions and academic institutions to silence dissenting opinions. Professional colleges would be asked to tighten their definitions of “unprofessional conduct” and recognize members’ rights to freedom of expression.

Note that these changes don’t merely cover dissenting opinions by doctors during a medical emergency.

They cover any issue, at any time. The Panel couched its recommendations in soothing language, affirming the good intentions and good faith of these organizations. But, pointedly, it included a recommendation that the UCP government arm itself with the authority to order these organizations to restore free inquiry and free expression should they refuse to do so on their own.

The Panel, in short, wants to ensure that never

again will doctors, nurses, any other professionals or academics be subject to retaliation, abuse or termination for expressing views contrary to the dominant narrative – as thousands were in Alberta and across Canada during the pandemic.

If the UCP government makes the required changes to the Alberta Bill of Rights, they will be much harder to undo in future than amending obscure administrative laws. These changes could also help set up a broader counter-attack against the woke-driven politicization of our universities and professional colleges. The possibilities are breathtaking.

Barry Cooper is a professor of political science at the University of Calgary. His latest books are Paleolithic Politics (2020) and, with Marco Navarro-Génie, COVID-19: The Politics of a Pandemic Moral Panic (2021). The original, full-length version of this article was recently published by C2C Journal.

Shannon Kowal 780-920-3076

shannon@kowalrealty.ca

Melissa Hausser

587-873-7243

melissa@kowalrealty.ca

Wishing you a Merry Christmas!

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DECember 13, 2023

Sharing Love for Ukraine from the Kalyna Country Quilters Elaine Bartee and Kaitlyn Kruk Submitted

The Kalyna Country Quilting Guild is a group of about 14 women, who focus their efforts in bring help, support and comfort where it is needed. The Kalyna women are constantly in search of those who are in need.

They make quilts to give foster children, and to women’s shelters. Support pillows for transplant patients, and warm, cozy quilts for seniors in care facilities. They do not work alone. Angels who have a common goal are also in the mix. People like Lyn and Kristen Yaremchuk, who have donated 40 quilts to the latest cause. As well, Dana Stewart who produces countless quilts for so many charitable causes.

On Sunday, October 29th, several women from the Kalyna Country quilting guild, and others who are involved in this shared venture, had the pleasure of meeting with Kaitlyn Kruk, formerly of Vegreville, and a member of the Ukrainian Patriots (UP).

Kaitlyn at only 27-years-old, speaks passionately and eloquently of the work that Ukrainian Patriot are doing to help and support the people of Ukrainian. At a time when their country is in dire need, due to the war and violence inflicted upon their country, Ukraine Patriot has been able to connect with so many people, raise funds and goods to aid in their mission to support Ukraine.

Kaitlyn, confident in the people of Ukraine to be victorious in their defence of their country, has conveyed to us the appreciation they have for the help, support and love they have received from Canada. In her heart, she knows everything that is being done for Ukraine is worthwhile.

Kaitlyn is the epitome of an old soul. She spoke for over an hour, sharing many stories that moved us all. She was able to explain how they filled the large warehouse with all sorts of necessary supplies to distribute to people in need. The support ranges from food and quilts to medical supplies for defenders, civilians and animals. She also explained the steps the organization it takes to facilitate the distribution of those items.

A consistent theme in the stories Kaitlyn shared with us, was the strength and the fortitude of the Ukrainian people, and the resolve of Ukrainian Patriot in their venture to support them. It was amazing to hear, that no matter where the UP teams would go on a delivery run, they were met with warmth, open arms and often treated to a delicious meal. A wonderful example of Ukrainian hospitality and friendship.

Kaitlyn wore many hats during her time in Ukraine. She is part of a delivery team, teaching English or vaccinating dogs by the hundreds. Very close to Kaitlyn’s heart, were the children she met, and spent time with in several children’s centres. The Kalyna Country Quilting Guild, has supplied over 200 quilts, cloth books, dolls, toys,

Main Photo: Members of the Kalyna Country Quilters.

Inset: Quilts ready to be loaded up.

(Kaitlyn Kruk/Submitted Photos)

receiving blankets and pyjamas to Ukrainian Patriot, and they will find a way to get them to these children in need.

Kaitlyn also told us, about an older woman she met on a few occasions, who affectionately calls Kaitlyn, daughter. This elderly lady is nearly blind, and is so grateful for the supplies Kaitlyn and her team bring to her, and her neighbours. The spirit that she shows is what impresses Kaitlyn so much.

This lady lives very close to the Russian border and has, for her entire life, spoken only Russian. She emphasizes the indoctrination that she has lived under, but she is a proud Ukrainian who loves her country. She expressed she would not choose to live anywhere else. This sentiment is a common one throughout the country.

Ukrainian Patriot has been providing the necessary aid to support those caught in the cross fire of this invasion. Their mandate is to bring light, love, hope and connection to the people of Ukraine and elevate the human spirit. Their hope is that with the continued help and support from around the world, they will be victorious and will be free to live in peace.

We as Ukrainian Canadians have a responsibility to contribute through support, and to bring awareness about the realities of the war in Ukraine.

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Peter & Alice Sokoluk; Jerry, Donna, Kevin Eliuk; Michael Lisoway; Rosanne Fortier; Mercedes Larocque & Lee Streets; Adam Kozakiewicz; Pat & Ernie Motiuk; Debbie Lesoway, In loving memory of Mike J Lesoway, Josh Lesoway, Ann & John Lesoway, Tony & Nick Lesoway, Pearl & Nick Cebeniak, Virginia Wolinski, Angela Boqdanski, Gwen Polomark, Kevin O Gorman; Steve Kereliuk; Darryl & Shelley Sappa; Ron & Dianne Humeniuk; Diana & Marcel; Peggy Allen; Bill & Lydia Pawluk & Families: Dwayne & Rose Gorda, Lindsay & Nadine Gorda & Family, Donna Gorda & Richard & Family; Don, Jenovia, Megan Woloshyn, Craig, Kendra & Moraya Woloshyn; Ron Makowecki - In memory of Jeanette; Marshall & Elsie Juba, Terence Juba; Victor & Elsie Saskiw, Darrell, Donna, Derek, Jordanna & Cash Saskiw; George & Lynda Childs; Howard Austin Family; Roger & Deb Welsh; Clara & Douglas Nawrot; Orest & Janet Kolisniak; Anne Hewko; Les & Darlene Ferguson; Penny Teske & Teddy & L1 Feather; “In Loving Memory of Todd Hirsch & Louis Hirsch”; Dave & Millie Giebelhaus; Gordon & Marilyn Lucyk; Randy & Janet Footz; Elizabeth Hewko; Betty Lou Hewko; Marie & Terry Gorda; Katie & Marvin Boe; Lois Bienvenue “In memory of Philip, Annette, Denis & Barry Bienvenue; In Memory of Mike & Mary Patrie - Tompkins family – Keith, Kevin, Kelsey, Kelly; Chris & Greg Kurulok, Jennifer Kurulok, Garrett Gregoroschuk, Adrian & Kalyna Gregoroschuk, Stefanie & Michael Beart, Cybil & Grace Beart; Shawna Petruk; In Loving Memory of Kathy Petruk; In loving memory of Ron Petruk; Bettyann, Breck & Roan Gibson; Roger & Shawna Petruk; Jerry Tymchak; In Loving Memory of Evelyn Tymchak; Lillian Koziskie & family; Victoria Paranych in honor of the Paranych family; Brian & Joan Ferguson & family;

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100% Proceeds To The Christmas Bureau Hamper applications are being accepted at 5341-50 Ave - Galleria Mall until December 8th. The hours are Wednesdays 5 pm - 7 pm, Fridays 11 am - 1 pm, and Sundays 2 pm - 4 pm.

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For administrative inquiries call 780-632-8940.