U15D Softball Provincials a Hit
Caylie Gnyra Reporter
Vermilion was buzzing with excitement as it hosted the U15D Alberta Softball Provincials July 5–7. The event drew ten teams from across the province, showcasing young athletic talent from Stettler, Didsbury, Czar, and elsewhere.
The event began with opening ceremonies at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, followed by the first games at 11 a.m. Vermilion’s opportunity to host the provincials came about somewhat serendipitously: during a Lakeland league meeting, it was noted that no town had volunteered to host provincials. Seizing the opportunity, Pam Cannan put in a bid on behalf of the Vermilion Minor Ball Association (VMBA). Vermilion was ultimately chosen as the host, which allowed the VMBA to enter a team that had not otherwise qualified for the championship.
Alberta is divided into eight zones, with Vermilion falling into Zone 7. This year, Czar’s MCHA Lakers qualified
for Zone 7. The host team, comprising 17 local girls selected through tryouts, was led by coaches Landon Cusack, Michael Griffiths, and Joel Smith, and managed by Jessica Smith.
Cathy Wolters, the event’s photographer, captured memorable moments throughout the weekend, including the opening ceremonies and the gold medal games on Sunday. The opening ceremonies featured players from the U9–U13 teams singing “Oh Canada,” offering them a chance to be part of the excitement of the weekend. “Scrawny Ron” McPhee, affectionately known for his dedication to umpiring, had the honor of throwing the first pitch, with Deputy Mayor Kevin Martin catching. This event marked the first time in several years that Vermilion has hosted ball provincials, and there is a keen interest in making it an annual tradition. With 165 players registered in both baseball and softball this year, the local ball scene is thriving. In addition to the U15D provincials,
Vermilion’s U19 girls will be heading to Castor from July 12–14 for the U19C provincials, showcasing the depth of talent in Vermilion’s softball program.
A concession stand and a 50/50 draw were available on site, adding to the sunny summer atmosphere. The event also served as an opportunity for community building. For Cannan, who did not grow up in Vermilion, planning this event helped her connect with the community. Her daughter’s involvement in softball, which started three years ago, served as a bridge between her and the local community. As the main contact between Softball Alberta and the teams, Cannan found support from the board and volunteers whenever needed, making this event a collective effort.
The weekend proved to be an exciting time for Vermilion, with softball enthusiasts and community members coming together to celebrate sport, teamwork, and local pride.
“Scrawny Ron” threw the opening pitch.
The U15 Vermilion Shadows faced off against the Didsbury Royals in the opening game of the U15D Alberta Softball Provincials July 5–7. Photos Caylie Gnyra
Mannville Embraces Canada Day With Celebrations
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
On July 1, the community of Mannville came alive with as residents and visitors gathered to celebrate Canada Day. Despite occasional rain showers causing some disturbances, the day was filled with laughter, joy, and memorable moments.
The festivities kicked off with a hearty pancake breakfast, featuring delicious pancakes, ham, eggs, coffee, and juice. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the town buzzed with activity, offering entertainment for all ages, including a bouncy castle, a mini putt tournament, and various engaging activities. Children were particularly delighted as they bounced joyfully in the inflatable castle.
A delectable lunch of burgers and hot
dogs, organized to support the 4-H Multi Club, satisfied hungry attendees. With full bellies, the festivities continued at the Mannville Riverview Golf Course from 3 p.m. onwards. Attendees of all ages participated in various games at each hole, including the Chip in the Trailer contest, slip and slide, bean bag competition, and karaoke, which became a hit during the rain.
At 5 p.m., the golf course prepared beef on a bun for everyone to enjoy, and the clubhouse menu was also available.
As night fell, a brilliant display of fireworks lit up the evening sky, leaving the crowds in awe, despite the turbulent weather throughout the day and evening.
In neighbouring Innisfree, Canada Day celebrations also drew crowds. The
day began with a pancake breakfast at the Innisfree Recreation Centre from 9:30 to 11 a.m., hosted by the Village of Innisfree for a silver donation, which was contributed to the museum. Following the breakfast, celebrations continued at the Birch Lake Campground in the afternoon, featuring family-friendly activities, a bake sale at the museum, and fireworks
at 10:45 p.m. at the Ball Diamonds in the Birch Lake Recreation
works were sponsored by the Innisfree Fish and Game Association.
Canada Day in Mannville and Innisfree was a testament to the community spirit, bringing together people of all ages to celebrate the nation’s birthday with joy, camaraderie, and a true sense of unity.
Park. The fire -
Attendees enjoying karaoke at the Mannville Riverview Golf Course. Photo Mannville Riverview Golf Club
Visitors getting their pancake breakfast. Photo Lorna Hamilton
Caylie Gnyra Reporter
Dog Days Of Summer Delight Before Storm
The Vermilion Agricultural Society’s Canine Sport Committee hosted its first annual Dog Days of Summer demonstration show at the fairgrounds on Canada Day, July 1. The show was set to run from 1 until 4 p.m., but thunder rumbled in the distance just moments before co-organizer Deanna Krys took to the microphone to introduce the show. The show consisted of three events: an agility course, a barn hunt, and a stock dog demo. The aptly chosen name originates from a phrase describing the hot and humid days of summer, dating back to the Roman Empire. Traditionally, it refers to the period from July 3 to August 11, which encompasses the 20 days before and after the star Sirius rises and sets with the sun. Sirius, known as the ‘Dog Star,’ is the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major (Large Dog). During the first canine event, spec -
tators marvelled at the dogs’ agility as they jumped through stationary hoops, ran through a tunnel, circled barrels, and ascended and descended a ramp, all with the direction and support of their handlers. Bri Ross’s dog Leesi made the audience laugh as she snuck on her belly through the first hoop as Bri was walking away in preparation for giving her the go-ahead to start the course, and then wowed the crowd as she obediently backed up upon Bri’s command.
With dark clouds in the west moving closer, the quick decision was made to shorten the show but ensure that all three events could be shown. Louie the beagle and his handler Kaylie Krys performed a barn hunt demo in which Louie sniffed stacks of straw bales and marked when he had located the scent of a special treat. Megan Krys and Fynn the Australian shepherd performed a second demonstration of the event.
As the wind picked up, Bri Ross and
her dog Bess the border collie began a stock dog demonstration, skillfully moving three sheep around obstacles and finally into a pen. Event co-organizer Brianne Bellwood then ran the sheep with Link the border collie, an 8-year-old dog who will be competing at the Calgary Stampede World Stock Dog Championship later this month. Following Brianne and Link, Megan Krys ran Kit the Australian shepherd as the rain and thunder ultimately overtook the show around 1:45 p.m. However, there was a shared sentiment that it had been a fantastic event, with over 80 people in attendance.
The show had been planned with the hopes of showcasing some of the different canine sports available, both to highlight the facility as a great place to do future dog shows and to introduce others to the possibility of what they could learn to do with their own dogs. The Canine Committee’s vision is to get set up to be a host location for Canine Sport Groups
as well as host clinics.
The organizers hope to plan more events throughout the year, and to partner with other organizations to provide a Canada Day event with food and entertainment each year, as they did with Icycle Bicycle this year. The handlers and their beloved animals demonstrated the teamwork, communication, trust, and love that are at the heart of canine sports.
The day was also made possible by Brianne Bellwood and Bri Ross supplying sheep for the stock dog demonstration, Soft Creek Farm supplying straw bales for the barn hunt, and the Lakeland College Canine Sport club supplying the agility equipment.
Anyone interested in getting involved with dog sports or sharing ideas about next year’s Canada Day plans, even if not dog-related, can contact the Vermilion Agricultural Society Office and the Canine Committee will be in touch.
Cathy Arychuk runs her Shetland sheepdog Hermes through the agility course at the first annual Dog Days of Summer at the Vermilion Agricultural Society grounds on Canada Day. Kaylie Krys’ beagle Louie demonstrates a barn hunt. Photos Caylie Gnyra
COLUMNIST
Dawn Hames Columnist
I love the filling in eggs rolls, so I thought it might be fun to make a large pot of egg roll filling, and enjoy it, without the deep-fried wrapper. It turned out really well. If you do not have pork burger, then you can use chicken or beef, although pork is a more authentic flavour. I use the pre cut cabbage, which contributes to this dish being super fast and easy to make. Home cooking is a good way to get a healthy meal. For this home cooked meal, first, start a pot of rice, and then make the Lazy Egg Roll recipe, followed by a sauté of some broccoli with onions and a dash of sesame seeds. Supper is ready.
Cabbage and onions have major health benefits. Research has shown that
Craig Baird Columnist
In June 1952, Vermilion decided to host a boxing tournament and it proved to be one of
Naked Egg Roll
compounds in cabbage are converted to isothiocyanates that provide protection in our bodies from breast, bladder, prostate and colon cancer. A University of Otago study in New Zealand found that the isothiocyanates in cruciferous vegetable such as cabbage, broccoli, brussel sprouts and cauliflower can even cause cancer cells to destruct. A study in Poland found that women that consumed 4 servings a week of cabbage had significantly lower breast cancer rates than women who consumed only one serving a week. Regularly eating raw or lightly steamed cabbage helps lower cholesterol. Cabbage is rich in antioxidants and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties in our bodies. Cabbage juice aids in the healing of stomach ulcers and improves digestive health. While we don’t usually think of cabbage as a source of vitamin C, it is interesting to note that 1 cup of cabbage provides 50 % of the daily recommended
value of vitamin C and 91% of DRV of vitamin K. Amazingly cabbage also has omega 3 in the form of alpha linolenic acid. Cabbage scores low on the glycemic index, is low in carbohydrate and is a good choice to prevent blood sugar spikes. Cabbage has only 33 calories per cup, making it a perfect diet food that is packed with healthy vitamins. Red cabbage is a nutrient powerhouse with 6 to 8 times more antioxidant abilities than green cabbage. Onions are a natural source of quercetin and chromium, which both assist in blood sugar control. Onions like garlic contain sulfur compounds that work to detox our bodies by binding to heavy metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium and then escorting them out of the body.
The ginger and spices are what really gives this dish the unique egg roll flavour.
Naked Egg Rolls 2 pounds of lean pork burger
1 cup onion (finely chopped)
1 tablespoon raw garlic (finely chopped)
1.5 tablespoons raw ginger (finely chopped)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
10 cups sliced cabbage
1 cup grated carrot
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon cloves
1/8 teaspoon anise
In a heavy bottomed large pot, fry the burger until well cooked. Add the ginger, onion and soy sauce and continue to salute. Add all the remaining ingredients, and continue to cook, with a lid, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted. If there is too much cabbage for the pot add the amount that fits and then add the remaining as that cabbage cooks down.
Reprinted by request of a reader.
A Large Crowd For Boxing
the most popular events of the year.
The boxing card presented was full of the best boxers in the area during that time, and from across the province.
The event was such a hit that the four sections of portable bleachers were filled with spectators as soon as the doors opened. Other seats were quickly rushed in and even with those there were still many people standing.
Walter Kozack came in from Edmonton to referee the event. Judges for the bouts
McPhee. Dr. Ben King acted as the ring announcer, and his opening remarks paid tribute to Mr. Wynnychuk for starting up the boxing club and teaching so many of the young men in the area how to box.
The first event saw six boys fight through two rounds of boxing while blindfolded. The boys did their best to box while several opponents were swinging their arms around them.
After this, Wilf Little defeated Peter Toner. The second bout featured Ronnie Paulsin and Frank Gremsheld. It was said both of the young men displayed real boxing ability with good coordination, quick thinking and evenness of temper. Paulsin won the bout by a narrow margin.
crowd very proud with how well he hung in for the match.
The headline bout was between Vermilion’s Herb Little and Bob Paley from Edmonton. The bout was four rounds of rugged boxing crammed with action but Paley just barely defeated local man Little in the match.
After the boxing was completed, a special award for outstanding performance and sportsmanship was given to Marvin Little. The award was a sport sweater and he received it for his excellent display of boxing against a bigger, older and tougher opponent.
Contact Craig at craig@canadaehx.com
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Marv Little took on Melvin Burnett. While Marv lost, he was only 15 and up against a 22-year-old, but he made the hometown
Listen to his podcast Canadian History Ehx on all podcast platforms.
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Wainwright Canada Day Celebrations: A Vibrant Display Of Community Spirit
Despite the threat of rain and wind, the Canada Day celebrations in Wainwright carried on with vibrant energy on July 1st. Held at the CFB Wainwright fish pond, the event mirrored the resilient spirit of many communities in the area.
From 3 to 6 p.m., the Fish Pond was a hub of family-friendly activities. Attendees enjoyed the Fitset Ninja Obstacle Course, five different inflatables from Edmonton Bouncy Castle, face painting, balloon animals, a stilt walking workshop, and magic shows, all free of charge.
Musical entertainment began at 3 p.m.
with The Montana Project, followed by Seth Anderson, and then The Montana Project returned for a second set. Speeches and a cake-cutting ceremony took place at 6 p.m., with entertainment continuing after featuring Joe Vickers & The Badland Balladeers from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Headliner Corb Lund closed the show with a performance from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Key figures such as M.D. Wainwright Reeve Bob Barss, Town of Wainwright Deputy Mayor Ariel Haubrich, and Commanding Officer 3CDSB Tech Svcs, LCol Brian Churney, delivered speeches and served complimentary birthday cake and cupcakes at 6 p.m.
Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed the all-day beer gardens, indulged in treats from various food vendors, explored
local markets, and savored slices from the colossal Canada Day cake and cupcakes.
The PSP Wainwright expressed heartfelt gratitude to all contributors on their Facebook page, stating, “Huge thank you to our sponsors for this year’s Canada Day event. We rely on partnerships and sponsorships to bring this fantastic event to the community year after year. Our major sponsor, Wainwright Liquor & Cold Beer Store, provides immense support for our all-day beer gardens. Special thanks to BMO and Rightway Sanitation Services, our activity sponsors. Your support ensures the success of this event. Thank you for celebrating with us.”
The day’s festivities concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, providing a perfect finale to the Wainwright Canada Day celebrations.
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Dignitaries serve up complimentary birthday cake and cupcakes to celebrate Canada Day. L-R: M.D. Wainwright Reeve, Bob Barss, Town of Wainwright Deputy Mayor, Ariel Haubrich, and Commanding Officer 3CDSB Tech Svcs, LCol Brian Churney.
The annual Canada Day event held at CFB Wainwright attracted people from all over Eastern Alberta and beyond. The weather cooperated and the event was a huge success again this year. Photo credit V. Williams, PSP Wainwright
Corb Lund headlined this year’s Canada Day event at CFB Wainwright, closing out the day with fireworks. PSP Wainwright partnered with the Town of Wainwright and the M.D. Wainwright to bring back this free family event for surrounding community members.
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Vermilion Connected Kristen Siermachesky Sets Sights On Olympic Glory
Vermilion’s connection to the upcoming Paris 2024 Summer Olympics is more personal and inspiring than ever, thanks to Kristen Siermachesky. Kristen, whose father, Cory Siermachesky, was an accomplished high jumper, is carrying on the family’s athletic legacy, albeit in a different sport—rowing. As she prepares for her first Olympic appearance (July 27-Aug 3), Kristen’s journey from ice hockey to the world stage is a testament to her dedication, versatility, and resilience.
Kristen’s ties to Vermilion run deep. Her father, Cory, was a standout athlete who graduated from J.R. Robson in 1987 and went on to compete in high jumping at the national level, narrowly missing the Olympics twice. His parents, Kristen’s Baba and Gido (Dianne and Roger Siermachesky), still reside in Vermilion, and the town holds a special place in Kristen’s heart. Reflecting on her connection, she shared, “I have many fond memories of visiting Vermilion and Dad showing me around his stomping grounds.”
Kristen’s athletic journey began on the ice rather than the water. After playing NCAA ice hockey at Syracuse Univer
eligibility left and no ice hockey program at UNC, Kristen decided to try rowing. It was a decision that would change her life. “Midway through my first year as a Tar Heel, UNC head coach Erin Neppel saw something in my rowing ability and talent and reached out to Team Canada officials,” she explained. By July 2022, Kristen had moved to Duncan, BC, to train with the national team, embarking on a whirlwind journey that included competing at the Pan American Games, the World Championships, and the World Cup.
When asked about her inspiration to pursue rowing at such a high level, Kristen credits her family’s competitive spirit. “All my childhood, I have been competitive. With my parents and my sister, we grew a tight-knit relationship that allowed us to push each other and strive for excellence,” she said. Her parents, along with her coach Erin Neppel and teammate Kasia, an Olympic gold medalist, have been her mentors and role models.
Training for the Olympics is no small feat. Kristen describes her typical day as starting at 7 a.m. and often ending around 6 p.m., with a rigorous schedule that includes rowing sessions, weight lifting, and cross-training. “We train between 4-8 hours a day, six days a week,” she said, emphasizing the importance of time management, preparation, and sleep in balancing the physical and mental demands. Despite the challenges, Kris -
ten remains focused and motivated. “Rowing is hard because you only compete 2-3 times a year. You train nearly all year long, six days a week, for a few hours of limelight,” she noted. Staying healthy, eating properly, and maintaining motivation are constant challenges, but Kristen’s dedication is unwavering. “To wear the maple leaf has always been a dream, and I would have never thought three years ago when I learned to row that I would be heading to the Olympics.”
As she looks forward to her first Olympic experience, Kristen is eager to represent Canada and compete alongside other elite athletes.
“I think I’m most looking forward to being surrounded by other like-minded, highachieving athletes, and showing the world all the work we have been putting in,” she said.
Kristen’s journey from hockey to Paris as a rower is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with determination and support. Her advice to young athletes aspiring to reach the Olympic level? “You can do anything you put your mind to. There is not one straight path to the destination you are seeking—so create your own path and walk it with pride.”
With her competitive spirit, dedication, and strong support system, Kristen Siermachesky is not only making her family proud but also inspiring the next generation of athletes to dream big and strive for excellence.
Kristen’s role at the Olympics is unique—she is a spare, ready to jump into the boat at a moment’s notice. Her goal is clear: “The goal is GOLD – at the moment, that is all that is on my mind.” Beyond the Olympics, Kristen plans to return to Chapel Hill to finish her master’s degree and serve as an assistant coach for the UNC women’s rowing team, with aspirations of becoming an athletic director at a university.
Kristen Siermachesky. Photos submitted
Kristen Siermachesky and family.
VIBE Hosts Weekly Scavenger Hunts
Caylie Gnyra Reporter
VIBE (Vermilion is Being Empowered) kicked off the summer with its first familyfriendly scavenger hunt of the season on Monday, July 1. The scavenger hunts run Monday through Thursday afternoon, with a new game beginning every Monday all summer long.
VIBE will be posting a new starting clue each Monday on their Facebook page, leading participants to their first location. There, they will encounter a QR code that they can scan with their phone camera to reveal the first number of a lock combination as well as their next clue. A total of five lock numbers are needed in the correct order to open the lock box at the final destination. The person who arrives first has the opportunity to take the Vermilion Chamber Bucks gift card found inside, while those who arrive later can choose from a wide selection of children’s prizes.
The purpose of the scavenger hunt is for families to explore places that they
might play at. Various parks and places of interest like the pollinator garden or museum or library may be locations used throughout the summer.
Check VIBE’s Facebook page each Monday for new clues, and have fun out there!
Mannville Families Say Thank You
An amazing community came together to support the three families from the May 11 house fires. We as a community rose over $13,500.00. With so many individuals, community groups, anonymous, and private donors making a true tribute to our communities heart. Thank you to 881 Confectionery, Vermillion Credit Union Mannville Branch, and Cornerstone Co-op Mannville for being collection points. The families were truly overwhelmed at the care and support.
Mike Myhovich on behalf of the Vermilion Credit Union Mannville Branch making the presentation to the families on the south side of the Mannville Village Office where it says “Thank you” as are the grateful families. “We are truly blessed by such an amazing community, we’re brought to tears, thank you.” said one of the recipients.
VIBE’s scavenger hunt, running Mondays through Thursdays each week throughout the summer, ends with family-friendly prizes in a final location for those who can work through a series of clues. Photo submitted
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Lloydminster Celebrates Canada Day With Many Festivities
On July 1st, as Canada marked its 157th birthday, Lloydminster pulled out all the stops to commemorate the occasion with a magnificent array of family activities and performances. Bud Miller Park became the center of attention as locals and visitors alike reveled in the festivities while indulging in culinary delights.
The Lloydminster Canada day celebrations which were presented by Co-operators Lloydminster, Jason Arden and Associates Ltd, and Anderson Insurance Group commenced with a spirited opening act and a re-affirmation ceremony at the Amphitheatre main stage from 1 to 2 p.m. The crowd was treated to a stellar lineup of local entertainment at 2:30 p.m., captivating attendees with their exceptional talent and vibrant performances. The Jordyn Pollard performance, scheduled for 7 p.m., was a hit with
those in attendance. From 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., thousands of enthusiastic participants were enthralled by the delightful petting zoo, providing an interactive experience with a variety of animals. Horse and wagon rides and Pony rides were also available, adding a touch of nostalgic charm to the festivities.
To beat the warm temperatures despite the inclement weather that moved in and then left again, attendees could enjoy a refreshing public swim or visit the spray park.
For those seeking adventure and thrills, the Adventure Zone offered a range of exciting activities, including border balloons, a rock wall, a mechanical bull, and western shootouts. Children and the young at heart had a blast at the Guardian Fun Zone, where a host of captivating attractions awaited.
From a velcro wall and face painting to a space station and glitter tattoos, there was no shortage of entertainment options. The train obstacle course and Toy Story
Notice of Public Hearing Bylaw 24-15
A bylaw of the County of Vermilion River in the Province of Alberta for the purpose of closing to public travel and disposing of portions of a public highway in accordance with Section 22 of the Municipal Government Act, Chapter M26 Revised Statutes of Alberta 2000, as amended
will be held on:
DATE: July 16, 2024
TIME & LOCATION: 9:05AM in Council Chambers located in the County of Vermilion River Office at 4912-50 Avenue, Kitscoty, AB
Any person wishing to be heard may make written representation to the Council, submitted to planning@county24.com, by fax at 780-846-2716, or dropped off in the secure mailbox located outside the front door of the County office, no later than July 9, 2024 at 12:00 noon. Any written submissions received will be read aloud by Administration during the Public Hearing.
You may also view the Public Hearing via ZOOM video conferencing and all of the Council meeting by click on the meeting registration request on the County website here: County Government Instructions on how to make oral submissions during the meeting will be contained in the registration email you are sent.
After considering the representations made to it concerning the proposed Bylaws, Council may make such amendments or changes as it considers necessary to the proposed bylaws, if any, and proceed to pass or defeat the proposed bylaws.
For additional information, please contact: Planning and Community Services
County of Vermilion River Ph: (780) 846-2244
Box 69, 4912 50 Avenue planning@county24.com Kitscoty, AB T0B 2P0
provided endless amusement, ensuring a memorable experience for families.
For sustenance and rejuvenation, food vendors area, offered a variety of treats. Attendees also had the opportunity to peruse and purchase goods from the bustling farmers market.
Lloydminster’s Canada Day celebrations were a resounding success despite the weather as the nation celebrated its history and cultural heritage, Lloydminster demonstrated its commitment to creating memo-
rable experiences for its residents and visitors alike.
“The City of Lloydminster is immensely grateful to everyone who joined us in celebrating Canada Day festivities. Your enthusiasm and participation truly made it a memorable occasion,” says Cindy Rekimowich. “Events like Canada Day wouldn’t be possible without the care and support of our community, and the many generous businesses in our region that support community-building initiatives.”
Canada Day Celebrations. Photos City of Lloydminster
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Tender submissions will be accepted up to 2:00 pm on July 30, 2024.
VERMILION AND AREA BUSINESSES
VERMILION AND AREA BUSINESSES
Cornerstone Co-op
Cornerstone Co-op’s 2024 Annual
Submitted Cornerstone Co-op gathered for their Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Mannville Elks Hall on July 4, marking a significant milestone of 105 years of cooperative excellence since its incorporation in 1919. The event, attended by 82 members and six guests, highlighted achievements, transitions, and community recognition within the cooperative.
Board President, Cliff Martin, began the AGM by welcoming guests and highlighting key updates. He noted that a financial
system changeover delayed this year’s AGM by two months and expressed gratitude to former CEO Graham Getz for his contributions before moving to another cooperative in January. He also recognized directors who completed board training and received certifications over the past year. Discussions included a review of the cooperative’s 2023 financials by Director of Finance Brad Belton, and Chief Executive Officer, Kory Kralkay, who provided updates on the Corporate Scorecard, highlighting significant improvements made throughout the year.
Summer Series Schools Showjumpers
Caylie Gnyra Reporter
The Vermilion Agricultural Society’s Summer Schooling Series ran its second of three sessions on a calm, sunny day at the fairgrounds on July 6.
This is the Ag Society’s first year running a schooling series, providing a local opportunity for equestrians to get their horses showing and jumping without the pressure or expectation of a formal show.
The first event of the series ran June 15 with around 20 horses—“Pretty good for a first-time event,” says Ag Society Office Manager Nicole Templeton.
She explained that schooling shows are a great experience for new riders and young
horses, and that many of the riders in this series have been under 18.
The show was arranged by divisions (height) and classes in each division, with a clear (i.e., practice) round at each height followed by a variety of classes, such as optimum time, clear round with jumpoff, and power and speed.
Entrants were supportive of each other throughout the event, coaching and cheer ing on riders and their horses.
Questions and comments from Memberowners were addressed from Board and Management.
An election was held, where four candidates contended for three threeyear terms on the Board of Directors for Cornerstone Co-op. Re-elected were Kathy Zajic from Wainwright and Tracy Edwards from Vermilion, alongside newly elected Kevin Wirsta from Elk Point.
Director Cliff Martin received recognition for his 27 years of dedicated service on the Board.
Board retiree, Cole Jackson, received
a parting gift after 14 years of service with Eastalta/Cornerstone Co-ops. Recently elected to the Federated Cooperatives Limited (FCL) Board of Directors, Cole’s retirement marks a significant chapter in his cooperative journey.
Cornerstone Co-op extends its gratitude to all member-owners and attendees for their continued support and participation in shaping the cooperative’s future.
For more information, please visit www. cornerstonecoop.crs or contact our Administration Offices: (780) 645-3270 (St. Paul) or (780) 853-6732 (Vermilion)
The final event of the series will take place on August 10, but the organization hopes to offer more local schooling shows in the future. For more information, visit vermilionag.ca/index.php/summer-series/ contact the Vermilion Agricultural Society.
Board retiree, Cole Jackson, receiving a parting gift after 14 years of service.
From left Tracy Edwards, Kevin Wirsta, and Kathy Zajic. Photos submitted
Jane Scansen from Dewberry rides Ozzy through the rails at the Summer Schooling Series at the fairgrounds on July 6. Photo Caylie Gnyra
Grandstand And Beer Garden Will Keep Toes And Fingers Tapping
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Throughout the three days of the Vermilion Fair the excitement at the grandstand isn’t limited to the chucks and chariots. The grandstand performances and beer gardens promise to be lively hotspots, making your toes tap and shoulders sway, as well as making your eyes widen.
The festivities kick off on Thursday evening at 7 p.m. with the Little Red Ball Company Spectacular Cirque Show. This dazzling performance features the extraordinary talents of JasonCircus, Caity Hoops, and Ariel Saphine.
“This dynamic trio will transform the fairgrounds into a vibrant circus playground, captivating audiences with a fusion of high-flying stunts, mesmerizing hula hoop performances, and breathtaking aerial acrobatics,” states the Vermilion Agricultural Society’s website.
You won’t want to miss this mesmer izing display of circus artistry!
On Friday evening at 7 p.m., renowned artist and musician Tracy Millar will take the stage. Known as one of Alberta’s finest traditional country music talents, Millar has spent the past two decades championing her favorite brand of country music. Whether performing her unique origi
And Shoulders
nals or classic country tunes, she has consistently won over fans in honkytonks, at rodeo dances, concert halls, and via the airwaves.
Saturday evening continues with award-winning country music entertainer Trevor Panczak from southern Alberta. Panczak, known for his humor, smooth vocals, and energetic live shows, has become a beloved headline act. A singer/songwriter with farm roots and country music in his blood, Panczak has garnered 18 Country Music Alberta (CMAB) nominations and several Top 50 Canadian country hits, including Top 40 hits “Where I Go to Come Back,” “For a Girl,” and “Cheap Shades & Riverbank.”
Over the past decade, Panczak has helped raise over $800,000 for various charities, cementing his status as a community-focused artist.
For those looking to kick back with a beverage and friends, the beer garden will be buzzing with entertainment
Swaying
throughout the fair. The Dirt Rich Band and Jordyn Pollard will keep the atmosphere lively with their performances.
The Dirt Rich Band, which began in 2013, has been steadily growing and maturing. Their debut album, “Cash Poor, Dirt Rich,” started in 2016, and their second album, “One More Round,” was released in May 2019.
The group has co-written songs with notable artists such as Steve Mitchell, Cole Bradley, and Darcy John, and in 2019 they were nominated in the top ten for ‘Fan’s Choice’, Group/ Duo, Video (I Dreamt This Up), ‘Single’ (Without Tryin’), and ‘Song of the Year’ (Without Tryin’) by the Alberta Country Music Association.
They have recorded with CCMA award-winning producer Bart McKay. They have shared the stage with big names like Brett Kissel, Gord Bamford, Aaron Pritchett, Aaron Lines, George Canyon, Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw, and Collin Raye.
They have also caught the attention of Grammy award-winning producer Wyclef Jean who mentored the boys and praised the works of their single “Without Tryin” saying “You have a fan down south” and “That song is going on my playlist!”
Jordyn Pollard, a talented vocalist, stage performer, and songwriter, will also perform at the beer garden. Known for her natural exuberance and lovable quirky personality, Pollard has stayed true to her small-city roots of Lloydminster.
“It is so important to me that people can relate to me and my songs. I want them to realize that I am a normal young woman who is trying to figure out life just like anyone else. I just process those issues and questions through my music,” Pollard said. With such a diverse lineup of performances, the Vermilion Fair promises to be a memorable event for all who attend.
