Regional Update from MLA Jackie Homeniuk

Heartwarming hospitality at Hillside Lodge

LastTuesday, I joined Premier Smith and Minister Sawhney in Mundare to announce new supports for Ukrainian Newcomers in our province. Perhaps the most important support announced is the Ukrainian Help Desk, which will serve as a one-stop-shop for displaced Ukrainians to call and access all the resources available to them. This will greatly streamline the process of accessing supports and information, and as such was a key recommendation of the Premier’s Advisory Task Force on Ukraine, which I was honoured to chair. You can find more information on Ukrainian supports here: https:// www.alberta.ca/support-for-ukrainians.aspx.

The Legislative Assembly passed Budget 2023 last week. Like last year, we once again have a balanced budget, thanks to the sound fiscal management and policies of our gov- ernment. Additionally, this year’s budget features a record investment in healthcare, as our government is committing an additional $965 million to continue strengthening the healthcare system for all Albertans. Furthermore, education is receiving a funding increase of $1.8 billion, to support the hiring of 3,000 educational staff. With these and many other investments, we can ensure that the opportunity and growth Alberta has seen over the past four years will continue decades into the future.

I am pleased to share that Alberta once again led the country in net interprovincial migration in the fourth quarter of 2022. This achievement is further proof that Canadians from coast to coast are seeing that the positive, pro-growth policies of our government are working. Alberta is a land of opportunity, and I am proud that our government has successfully renewed the Alberta Advantage.

Please contact my constituency office at fortsaskatchewan.vegreville@ assembly.ab.ca if you have any questions or concerns.

Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, MLA Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville

by Jared Rajoo

Leaving the warmth and security of my home and family in South Africa was difficult to say the least. From a blistering heatwave in South Africa, to the wonderful chilly weather has been quite the adjustment.

Yet, while met with the intense cold, a little place in Two Hills is spreading love and warmth. From the moment I initially arrived in Two Hills, I was treated wonderfully during my stay at the Hillside Lodge. The comfortable room, the hearty, fresh and healthy meals served by an exuberant staff made my stay an absolute delight.

The Hillside Lodge in Two Hills is home to many friendly and loving residents, with whom I had the privilege of getting to spend some time. Always greeted with warm smiles and loving embraces, it is little wonder why so many choose to call it home.

Residents are treated to many engaging activities including exercise, bingo, and various other fun-filled things to do.

In addition to providing exceptional care to their residents, the Hillside Lodge also allows members of the community to order meals that are prepared by their talented kitchen crew. For those of us who never seem to have enough time, it is a great way to get a hearty and healthy, home cooked meal for a very reasonable price.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the management, staff and residents of the Hillside Lodge for their outstanding hospitality and a great time filled with beautiful memories.