The Vermilion Ag Society hosted the 118th Vermilion Fair, drawing in thousands of enthusiastic visitors and fairgoers. The event, which took place over three days, offered a plethora of delightful experiences, exciting activities, and mouthwatering treats that left everyone with cherished memories to last a lifetime.
Kicking off the festivities in style, the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce and Vermilion Is Being Empowered (VIBE). organized a Fair Kick-off party on Monday evening. Attendees were treated to a delectable array of three chili samples during the chili cook-off. The party atmosphere was further enlivened by sidewalk sales hosted by various businesses and entertaining games that captivated people of all ages hosted by VIBE.
Thursday morning marked the official
commencement of the Fair, beginning with a pancake breakfast at the Vermilion Royal Canadian Legion from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The breakfast fueled the excitement, as everyone eagerly secured their favourite spots along the parade route, which gracefully made its way through the heart of Vermilion, beginning at 11 a.m. A delightful showcase of creativity, many floats embraced the theme of this year’s Fair“A Field of Dreams” each representing the unique interpretation of businesses and organizations.
Throughout the three-day event, fairgoers were presented with the option to obtain a thrifty three-day pass priced at only $20 or a daily pass for $10. These passes provided access to a wide array of attractions, including the bustling midway, captivating livestock shows, grandstand spectacles, exhibit hall, tradeshow, antique and modified tractor pulls, lawn mower races,
the charming Old MacDonald’s barn, and the adrenaline-pumping pony chariots and chuckwagon races, including the APCCA Chuckwagon races. In addition, the Fair featured open stages, beer gardens, and a host of other family-friendly activities that firmly established it as one of the most cherished and sought-after events in the region.
The West Coast Amusement rides added an extra layer of excitement, offering day bracelets for $50, which allowed ridegoers unlimited access to all the thrilling rides throughout the day. The resounding sounds of laughter and ecstatic squeals emanated from the Fairgrounds, as families relished these moments despite the inclement weather.
The culinary offerings at the Fair were nothing short of exceptional. Numerous food trucks, caterers, ice cream vendors, lemonade stands, and more tantalized the taste buds of visitors. The Fairgrounds
buzzed with a delightful mix of aromas, enticing everyone to indulge in a gastronomic journey unlike any other.
A crucial element contributing to the seamless execution of the Vermilion Fair was the army of dedicated volunteers. Year after year, the Vermilion Agricultural Society relies on the unwavering support of hundreds of individuals who selflessly give their time and effort to make the Fair a resounding success. Their commitment to ensuring everything runs smoothly and that everyone has a fantastic time was evident throughout the event.
The Vermilion Agricultural Society extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers, sponsors, and participants who contributed to the grand success of the 118th Vermilion Fair. Without their invaluable support, such a remarkable event could not have been possible.
Photos continue on Page 6 and more
Chuckwagon races at the 118th Vermilion Fair. Photo Lorna Hamilton
Lorna Hamilton, Reporter
at Tofield SPortsgrounds
Sue Chikie Reporter
Kamille Andersen decided to host a Trick Riding competition on July 23 and 24th to provide a place for the Canadian Trick Riding Association (CTRA) members to show judges and family members the skills they have been working hard to perfect. Andersen stated that all of the Trick Riding moms work hard to keep all the events running smoothly, and they all support one another. She has two daughters taking up Trick Riding and in this competition.
THURSDAY, Aug. 8
The competition had 20 girls come from Wainwright, Lloydminster, Provost, Viking, Grand Prairie, Fort McLeod, Regina, and Carnduff, SK., and was judged by Makenzie Jensen.
Because there is only one Trick Riding Association in Canada, girls have to travel quite far to be a part of it.
There are four age categories including, Peewee, 0-8, Youth, 9-12, Intermediate 13-15, and Open 16+. This competitions youngest rider was 5 years old and the oldest 18.
A clinic ran on July 22 led by Makenzie Jensen and Danielle Friesen both professional trick riders. There seems to
Trick Riding Competition
be a never ending list of tricks they can learn; starting with beginner level safety tricks like horn spins, touchdowns, one foot from stirrup and more. A Trick Riders saddle is different from any other as it has a long horn and straps for more advanced tricks like the hippodrome stand, the suicide drag, and the Stroud Layout.
The trick riders are busy all spring, summer and fall, with competitions, clinics, and shows.
The judge will score the competitors from four major categories; speed, technical difficulty, execution, and presentation. The judge will award bonus points if the competitors can perform combinations, and penalized for form breaks.
Andersen stated, “We have some pretty talented riders in the CTRA and we are proud to see them out in the community.”
Overnight camping was available for competitors and their families and spectators were welcome to watch for no charge.
Andersen commented, “B. Andersen Construction did the dirt work for my arena and we could not be happier with how it has turned out.”
Their major sponsors included, Ian and Breanne Perkins, Bear Creek Animal Clinic, Guertin Family, Old Baldy Ranch, and Rothwell Development Corp.
Lots of the girls also perform at rodeos. Trick Riding is a Contract Act at rodeos. A few of the girls have their Pro Card which means they can perform at, in the pro rodeo circuit as well. However, no matter what rodeo association you perform with, it’s a hired act.
Amber Miller was on hand for the event and is one of ‘The Graham Sisters Professional Trick Riding Team’, with her sister Krista.
Miller commented, “The girls come to compete to season new horses, perform new tricks, have a place to trick ride (as getting performances is tough) and my girl, Rhye Miller mostly comes to these competitions to see friends and have fun. No matter how busy we are, she begs me to come and hangout with our trick family.
Girls perform 5 tricks. They are each marked on Speed of the horse, execution, technical difficulty and presentation. The harder the trick you do, the more points it is worth in technical difficulty. Once all five are judged, the lowest scoring trick is dropped and your total score
is based on accumulating the other four scores together.
There are guys in the states that trick ride-more in the vaulting aspect or as we call it “ground work”. We would love to have boys starting- it just isn’t popular in Canada.
The girls train with coaches. Mackenzie Jensen (Strathmore) and myself Amber Miller (Wainwright) are the main coaches helping these girls. They all start with a clinic and learn what it all entails. Every mom always messages me and wants their daughter to try a clinic to see if they like it. In my mind- I’m like, they will love it. As soon as they stand on their horse in a hippodrome stand - they are hooked!”
She went on to mention, “With trick riding- nothing can be done, unless you have a good horse. And because trick riding isn’t hugely popular, it’s not like you can go buy a trick horse like you can do in other disciplines. So, a lot of these girls have worked hours and hours getting their horse to run the pattern, trust them and work them through different tricks. Some horses really take to it and others take a long time. But, the key to great trick riding is a fast horse that you can put your trust in.”
UNDAY, Aug. 11
pm: Rodeo Performance
Ayla Andersen.
Rhye Miller. Images credit Kim Franklin Photography
Aubrin Andersen.
Caylie Gnyra Reporter
Chamber Of Commerce Hosts Chili Cookoff
The Vermilion Chamber of Commerce hosted its second annual Chili Cookoff on Monday, July 22. Three teams from businesses around Vermilion entered the competition, and were tasked with bringing their most delicious chili in a crock pot to serve at the event, which ran from 5 to 7 p.m.
Nestled between Western Financial Group and Lighten Up Shop, friendly faces manned a table where patrons could purchase a disposal bowl and water bottle for $7 cash, then fill up as many times as they would like from the selection provided. Money raised through the sales goes back to support and sustain the Chamber of Commerce.
Around 40–50 people attended the event, gathering around tables to converse and assess the chili on flavour and spiciness as well as judging the teams on team spirit. After completing their meals, each attendee was able to vote in each of these
categories. Scotiabank won Most Flavourful, Alberta Treasury Branch won Team Spirit, and Lighten Up Shop won Hottest Chili. Across the road, VIBE provided free activities for kids, including balloon animals, glitter tattoos, and games. Prizes were
awarded simply for participating in the games.
“The chili challenge is a great way for businesses and patrons to interact with fun in the sun and a nice way to kick off the fair,” said Chamber of Commerce President Miranda Lychak. “The more participation
from businesses we have and attendance from hungry guests, the more excitement and competition we will have. Huge shout out to our entries this year and attendees, keeping our community spirit soaring. And a thank you to VIBE for all of its wonderful activities.”
Vermilion 4-H Sheep Club 49th Annual Achievement Day
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
The Vermilion 4-H Sheep Club held its 49th Annual Achievement Day on Tuesday, July 23. This event provided an excellent platform for the club members to showcase their hard work and dedication to the public.
Over the course of the year, club members engaged in a variety of activities and workshops designed to enhance their knowledge and skills. They learned effective communication techniques, participated in hands-on grooming, nutrition, parasite management, and pathology workshops, among others. Armed with this valuable knowledge, the members were eager to demonstrate their knowledge at the event.
The journey to Achievement Day began sixty days prior when each member receives their market lambs. From that
point forward, the members invest their time and effort in nurturing, feeding, and training their lambs for the show. In the days leading up to the event, the club members find themselves fully immersed in washing, grooming, and diligently working with their project animals.
This preparation not only enables the members to refine their skills but also helps their project animals acclimate to the show environment. As a result, the members and their animals become more poised, attentive, and better equipped to follow the ring mans (Vanessa Hadwin) instructions and respond to the judge’s inquiries. This year’s judge for the club was Ruth Spragg with Andrew McCrae as the Home Grown Judge. Furthermore, this thorough preparation significantly reduces stress levels for both the participants and the animals.
Starting at 1 p.m., spectators witnessed
the impressive showcase of these wellraised animals at the Vermilion Ag Society Sheep Barn. The final market lamb and goat show classes commenced at 6 p.m., with the sale at 7 p.m. in the same venue.
Enthusiastic buyers had the opportunity to bid on three goats and 11 market lambs that were auctioned by auctioneer Edward McCormack. Also at the sale this year was a charity market lamb which was donated and raised by a 4H family. The lamb was auctioned off at the sale bringing in $1,750 during the first auction; the lamb was then donated back to be auctioned a second time which brought the total to $3,000 that was donated to
local school lunch programs
The event also presented an opportunity for individuals who were considering joining the club to gain valuable insight into the club’s activities. Contrary to popular belief, 4-H is not exclusively for individuals with farming backgrounds or those involved in sheep rearing. It serves as an inclusive platform for anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of sheep and acquiring diverse skills, all while fostering new connections within the community. Keep an eye on the Vermilion Voice to see the results and pictures from the show. Watch next week’s issue for pictures and results of the show.
Think twice before disposing
So, look before
All the transfer stations have
those batteries, please bring them in for
prevent hazards to the entire
Teams from Scotiabank, ATB Financial, and Lighten Up Shop participated in the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce’s second annual Chili Cookoff. Photo Caylie Gnyra
Club members showing their goats. Photo Lorna Hamilton
Agland And Martin Deerline Merge To Form Horizon: A New Era For Agricultural Innovation
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
In a groundbreaking move poised to reshape the agricultural landscape, Agland and Martin Deerline have announced their merger, creating a formidable entity in the industry as of July 31. The newly formed company, Horizon, is set to revolutionize the agricultural sector with its ambitious goals and forward-looking strategies.
The merger between Agland and Martin Deerline was driven by a shared vision of growth and resilience. “Our primary goal was to ensure we remain strong and relevant for the next 50 years,” stated Agland general manager, Cam Kay who will be the CEO of Horizon. By joining forces, the two companies aim to leverage their combined resources to better serve their customers and the agricultural community.
The decision to merge was influenced by the desire to offer more to customers— more parts, more equipment, more support, and more specialized expertise.
“Having a bigger footprint allows us to achieve this,” Kay explained. The merger is a strategic response to evolving market conditions and business challenges, ensuring that the new entity can meet the demands of modern agriculture.
Horizon is committed to maintaining local ownership and decision-making, which it believes is beneficial for everyone involved. The merger promises enhanced services and support for customers while keeping the company’s roots firmly planted in the community. This local focus is expected to foster stronger relationships and trust within the agricultural community.
One of the key priorities during the merger of the two entities is to retain existing staff.
“All of the existing staff will be retained as everyone is valuable to our business and needed long term. With the increased technology in the equipment, we need more specialized people who can unlock the technology and provide that value to our customers,” Kay emphasized. He noted that the farms have advanced a lot over the last few years and that it is important for Horizon to advance too, which is the symbolism behind the new name.
Horizon plans to be at the forefront of technological
advancements in agriculture. “Deere is investing heavily in precision agriculture and technology, including autonomous equipment,” said Kay. Horizon’s commitment to innovation will ensure that customers have access to the latest tools and technologies to enhance their operations.
The merger is not expected to disrupt existing relationships with equipment manufacturers and suppliers. “We have a very good relationship with our suppliers, and this will continue going forward, just on a larger scale,” Kay assured. Horizon aims to build on these relationships to deliver even greater value to customers.
For current customers of both Agland and Martin Deerline the transition to Horizon should be smooth and largely unchanged according to Kay. “Our intent is to run things the same way but with improvements along the way,” the spokesperson said. Any changes that do occur will be positive, aimed at enhancing customer experience and satisfaction. Kay also noted that
customer feedback has been very positive about the change as they feel that it will be a positive impact for them.
“I also think that they are happy that we will remain a locally-owned business that is active in their community,” said Kay. Horizon signifies looking forward into the future. The new name encapsulates the company’s long-term vision and ambition. Horizon is investing in people, processes, training, and equipment to stay ahead of industry trends and continue innovating in the agricultural equipment sector. “We want to be the company that customers want to deal with because we can offer more value,” concluded Kay.
As Horizon embarks on this new journey, the agricultural community can expect a future of enhanced support, cutting-edge technology, and a steadfast commitment to local values. The merger of Agland and Martin Deerline marks the beginning of a promising new chapter in agricultural excellence.
The new Horizon at the Vermilion Fair Parade. Photo Lorna Hamilton
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Vermilion Roar U13 Lacrosse Team Triumphs With Unbeaten Streak
The Vermilion Roar U13 Lacrosse team has achieved an outstanding winning streak, culminating in triumphs at both the Alberta Lacrosse Association (ALA) Provincials in Red Deer and the inaugural Prairie Cup in Regina from July 19-21.
The Roar’s journey began at the Wheatland League Finals in Wainwright from June 14-16. Competing against teams from Wainwright, Lloydminster, Cold Lake, Bonnyville, and Fort McMurray, the Roar entered the playoffs undefeated with an 8-0 record. Their top seeding earned them a bye to the quarterfinals, where they defeated the Lloydminster Border Brutes 9-2. They then overcame Fort McMurray 7-4 in the semifinals, setting up a rematch against Fort
McMurray in the finals. The Roar clinched the Wheatland U13 Championship for the second consecutive year with a dominant 9-4 victory.
Following their league success, the Roar competed in the ALA Provincials in Red Deer from July 12-14. The tournament featured league champions from across Alberta, including teams from Calgary, Red Deer, Lacombe/Ponoka, Medicine Hat, and Westlock. The Roar started strong, defeating the Red Deer Chiefs 5-2 and the Westlock Rock 7-3. Securing the top seed in their pool, they faced the Medicine Hat SunDevils in a tense semifinal, ultimately winning 6-5. The championship game saw another thrilling encounter with the Red Deer Chiefs, where the Roar emerged victorious with a 7-5 win, earning their second consecutive
U13B Provincial Championship.
The team completed their league, playoffs, and provincial run undefeated, boasting a 15-0 record and an overall record of 18-1. Their sole loss came against Red Deer in the Tradition Lives tournament’s gold medal game, where they fell 4-3. Over 18 games, the Roar outscored their opponents 177-41, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity.
Head Coach Sean Tennant, Assistant Coach and President Greg Betz, Assistant Coach Nathan Matthews, and Head Athletic Therapist Shaun Cadrain led the team. Coach Tennant expressed immense pride in his players, highlighting their growth, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure. “As a head coach, I am extremely proud of these kids as they all grew so
much throughout the year and never shied away from anything the coaches threw at them and always found a way to dig deep when it mattered the most,” Tennant said.
Four Roar players—Kypton Farkash, Riggins Tymchyshyn, Karsen Cadrain, and Rylen “Big Mac” Desmarais—were selected for Team Alberta North. They played a crucial role in Team Alberta North’s success at the Prairie Cup in Regina, where the team defeated representatives from Alberta South, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan to claim the first-ever Prairie Cup gold medal.
The Vermilion Roar U13 Lacrosse team has truly exemplified excellence and sportsmanship throughout their remarkable season, making their community proud.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 10TH, 2024
• Pancake Breakfast - 8:00 - 10:00 am - Lougheed Seniors Centre, Main ST
• Parade at 10:30 am • Baseball • Ladies Fastball • Museum open all day
• Museum Features Include Kids Money Pit, Bingo, Gift Shop, Ice Cream, Ice Co ee Entertainment for Children, Kids Corner including games • Bench Exhibits on display until 4:00 PM
• Cattle Show and Judging • Horse Show and Judging • Meals and Snack Booths all day • Beer Gardens • Market Vendors • Roast Beef Supper - Lougheed Community Hall, 5-7:00 PM
Photos submitted
Pancake Breakfast
Fair Faces
Left photo, ladies served pancakes, hashbrown potatoes, sausage and eggs at the Royal Canadian Legion on July 25 and 27, and right photo, Vermilion Chrysler held a pancake breakfast on Saturday July 26.
Ist place Senior organization - Vermilion & District Housing.
Ist place Out of Town.
Ist place Comic.
Ovan Olsen and sister Freyja from Red Deer at Old MacDonald’s Barn.
Ist place Commercial - Quarter Cuts.
Ist place Junior organization.
Payton enjoying the bunnies at the fair.
Rose came from from Red Deer to take in the Vermilion fair. Photos Sue Chikie Robin Hunter checking out her candy. Julia came from Lloydminster for the fair.
Karley from Wainwright enjoying the fair.
Aubrey from Wainwright.
Equine Classes
Heavy Horse Hitches
Horse jumping, dressage, western classes and tie down roping. Photos Vermilion Voice
Heavy Horse Hitches two, three, four and six. Photos Vermiion Voice
HIRING LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES
The Vermilion Valley Lodge (a contracted service provider for Alberta Health Services - AHS) is seeking dedicated Licensed Practical Nurses to join our team in our newly created temporary capacity CCH Type B DSL4 (10 beds) located in Vermilion, AB. The ideal candidate will have a passion for patient care, possess strong clinical skills, and be able to work e ectively in a fast-paced environment.
POSITION REPSONSIBILITIES:
• Provide hands-on/physical care, alongside Health Care Aides, to residents according to the Care Plan and facility policies and procedures.
• Medication administration and supervision.
• Report changes in resident conditions as well as any other pertinent information to the appropriate decision makers in a timely manner.
• Assist in the monitoring of staff assigned to carry out the care plan, including supervising, coaching, and supporting
• Ensure resident care is delivered in a way that maintains resident dignity, privacy, and acknowledges independence, spirituality, and individuality.
QUALIFICATIONS
• LPN Certificate from a recognized LPN program, along with current active registration with the CLPNA in good standing.
• A satisfactory Criminal Reference Check and Vulnerable Sector Check issued in the past 90 days.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• This is a physically demanding position and requires hand, arm and shoulder dexterity, sensory ability, lifting to a maximum of approximately fifty-five (55) pounds, walking, standing, bending, reaching, and frequent movement. Join our team of healthcare professionals dedicated to delivering high-quality patient-centered care.
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Lakeland College Hosts Alberta Crop Diagnostic Days
Caylie Gnyra Reporter
On Tuesday, July 23, Lakeland College collaborated with Alberta Grains, Alberta Pulse Growers, and the Alberta Canola Producers Commission to present the first of three Alberta Crop Diagnostic Days. About 85 people, including farmers, industry representatives, researchers, students, and government representatives from across the Western prairies, met at the college’s Agriculture Technology Centre shortly after 8 in the morning. Shuttles began moving people to a site west of the campus that is home to the college’s research plots at 8:30 a.m. sharp.
Following an opening address by Shawn Jacula, Alberta Grains’ Regional Director of Region 4, the attendees were divided into three groups. They rotated through field stations, learning from experts in cereals and canola research Lakeland and other Albertan organizations have been involved in. Attendees also observed a demonstration of a drone sprayer.
Following a free lunch, visitors participated in pulses sessions and demonstra-
tions by industry partners sharing about their products and research. Topics spanned different management options, genetic potential, agronomic treatments, drone technology, and leading-edge practices to maximize and lower inputs, leading to economic benefits for Alberta crop producers.
“The whole idea is to bring academics, researchers, farmers, and industry all together so we can achieve a high level of information exchange and maximize taxpayers’ and farmers’ dollars,” said Robyne Davidson, pulse research scientist at Lakeland College.
François Paradis, Dean of Applied Research at the college, explained that the institution’s applied research team is focused commercial agriculture, spanning crops, livestock, and ag technology. On the crops side, they are focused on the main crops of economic importance for Alberta: namely, cereals, canola, and pulses. The objective of the applied research team is to contribute to increasing the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of the agricultural industry.
Paradis emphasized that applied research, as opposed to basic research, is focused on real producer issues, and done in partnership with producers, producer associations, and industry. This joint field day initiative aimed to bring the findings of applied research accessible to farmers in a timely manner, while also facilitating networking across the industry.
Davidson echoed that networking in this industry is as important as the exchange of information. “Seeing what other people are doing can create some collaboration and bring us all forward together,” she said.
Alberta Grains’ Director of Research, Agronomy and Extension Jeremy Boychyn highlighted that the value of this field day to his organization was in knowing that the research they have funded Lakeland to conduct directly benefits farmers.
The event was repeated at SARDA (Smoky Applied Research and Demon -
stration Association) jn Donnelly the following day, and a third Alberta Crop Diagnostic Day will be held on July 31 at Olds College.
“This collaboration with the crop commissions is a natural fit and a highly valued relationship,” said Paradis. “As an organization, we pride ourselves on advocating for the 18,000+ wheat and barley farmers in Alberta,” said Alberta Grains’ Director of Marketing, Communications, and Events Jonathan Anderson. “Agronomy and research are a priority and will continue to be an initiative we are committed to,” he continued.
By bringing people across the industry together, the event organizers aim to produce a knowledge hub for ag producers in the region to learn about new farming practices and tools they can take back to use on the farm.
PLAY BALL! SUMMER SPORTS IN
THE CITY
MAY 30 TO SEPTEMBER 4
Explore the history and importance of summertime sports in the city of Lloydminster through the Lloydminster Museum + Archives artifact and photograph collection.
Alberta Grains’ Director of Research, Agronomy and Extension Jeremy Boychyn speaks at the Alberta Crop Diagnostic Days at Lakeland College’s research plots west of town on July 23. Photo Caylie Gnyra
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
The annual Clandonald Country Fair is just around the corner, and this year’s theme, ‘Flashback Over 50 Years’ promises a day packed with family fun and excitement.
Starting on Friday, August 9, the fair will accept exhibits for the bench show from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., setting the stage for a weekend of community engagement and talent display.
On the main event day, Saturday,
Clandonald Country Fair
August 10, attendees can kick off their morning with a scrumptious pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. The breakfast, priced at $12 per person, will be accompanied by music to ensure a lively start to the day.
The morning will also feature the parade, commencing at 11:30 a.m. where spectators can watch the array of floats, horses, antiques, tractors, etc.
Throughout the day, fairgoers will have access to various activities and attractions suitable for all ages. From
Submitted
face painting to the bouncy house, the fair aims to provide a range of entertainment options. For those feeling lucky, Bingo will be available from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., while the Tractor Pedal Pushers, children’s races, laser tag and golf ball draw will add a touch of friendly competition to the event along with the Mutton Busting.
Attendees can witness the Fire Department Demo, which is always a hit with the young and old.
The Pipes & Drums will be on site as
well as family entertainment, and much more. The Clandonald Country Fair has always been a cherished occasion for families and friends to come together and create lasting memories. With free admission, the fair welcomes everyone, encouraging the community to partake in this celebration. A concession stand will be open all day, offering a selection of refreshments and treats.
Save the date - August 10 - for a day of jubilation and camaraderie.
Hot Dogs For Service Dogs
From August 4 to August 10 the world will celebrate International Assistance Dog Week, an annual event dedicated to recognizing the incredible contributions made by service dogs.
To celebrate the week the Order of the Eastern Star will be hosting two events. In Vermilion, they will with the assistance of the
Cornerstone Co-op will be organizing a Hot Dog and Hamburger Sale. The Barbeque will take place at the Cornerstone Co-op Store on August 1, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
On August 14th at the Battle River Lodge in Wainwright a member of the Order of the Eastern Star will be hosting a Tea and Bake Sale from 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m with a speaker. This event aims not only to raise funds but also to raise awareness about the special skills possessed by service dogs and how they make a difference in the lives of the owners and their families.
The proceeds from both events will directly benefit the guide dog program in Alberta (BC/AB Guide Dogs). For several
years, the Order of the Eastern Star has been supporting Guide Dog Programs throughout Canada and United States.
So, mark your calendars for August 1, and come down to the Cornerstone Co-op in Vermilion, and join Queen Esther Chapter OES and their partners, the Cornerstone Co-op in celebrating International Assistance Dog Week. Together, lets honor the service dogs and trainers who have touched the lives of so many, and support the continued success of this lifechanging program.
Whether it is guiding the visually impaired, alerting the hearing impaired, aiding those with mobility issues, or offering emotional support, service dogs play and invaluable role in society.