Community Members Commemorates Good Friday With Easter Cross Walk
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
In a moving tribute to Good Friday, members of the community united for a Cross Walk orchestrated by the Vermilion Ministerial Association on April 18.
With beautiful blue skies, but brisk temperatures, around 20 individuals gathered at the First United Church to embark on a symbolic journey bearing a substantial wooden cross. This procession wound its way through downtown, retracing the steps of history and faith before returning to the church.
recounting pivotal moments preceding and following Jesus’ crucifixion. From the betrayal and arrest to the trial, scourging, mockery, and the arduous carrying of the cross, each scripture served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifice commemorated on Good Friday.
Along the route, participants paused at designated points to reflect on scriptures
4:00pm - 8:00pm
The atmosphere resonated with time less hymns, including ‘Amazing Grace,’ ‘Lead Me To Calvary,’ ‘In The Garden,’ ‘Jesus Paid It All,’ ‘Nothing But The Blood’, My Jesus I Love Thee,’ ‘The Old Rugged Cross,’ ‘When I Survey the Wondrous Cross,’ and more. These melodies under scored the profound spiritual significance of the occasion, filling the air with rever ence and solemnity.
APRIL 25 & 26, 2025
Friday 4:00pm - 8:00pm
10:00am - 6:00pm
10:00am - 6:00pm
Multiplex
As participants walked, they had the opportunity to contemplate the solemn events of Good Friday, symbolically following in the footsteps of Jesus as he bore his own cross towards his ultimate sacrifice.
The Cross Walk served not only as a gesture of remembrance but also as a testament to the unity and faith shared among the community during this sacred time of year.
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Zayn’s Diner Plus: A Family Affair
On April 17, the owners of Zayn’s Diner Plus — Sam, Linda, Zayn, and Keith Alhalabi — warmly welcomed guests to the official ribbon cutting and plaque ceremony of their new restaurant, located at 4320 52 Street in Vermilion.
The event was attended by Karen Hughes, Executive Director of the Vermilion & District Chamber of Commerce; Mary Lee Prior, the Town of Vermilion’s Economic Development Officer; and Shannon Harrower, the Town’s newly appointed Chief Administrative Officer.
To mark the occasion, the Alhalabi family and their enthusiastic team served a tempting array of dishes during their soft launch, featuring comfort food done right. Guests also enjoyed a sneak peek at some of the specialty items that will be offered through their catering services, showcasing both creativity and culinary flair.
With a rich background in the food and hospitality industry, the Alhalabi family
brings years of experience and a deeprooted passion for service.
“We are a family-owned diner — mainly me and my dad,” explained Zayn. “We’re originally from Edmonton, but my parents are from a small village in Lebanon named Yanta. I have two siblings: my younger brother Yazen is helping us out here, while my older brother Hisayn is finishing his Master’s degree in phycology in Edmonton. My mom, Linda, is here with my dad and me every day, helping to run the diner.
“My dad has worked in restaurants for over 25 years, and I’ve worked in a variety of restaurants myself. I also completed two years of professional culinary training at NAIT in Edmonton, graduating with honours.”
Zayn’s Diner Plus represents more than just a new eatery, it’s a heartfelt commitment to becoming part of a warm, closeknit community.
“Our goal is to offer real food, done right — from local families to travelers pass -
ing through. We’re here to serve up diner favourites that hit the spot. It’s everything you expect from a diner — plus more.” “We chose to bring our restaurant to Vermilion because of its warm, family-friendly atmosphere,” added Zayn.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a cozy dinner with friends, Zayn’s Diner Plus invites you to stop by and experience their delicious menu and welcoming hospitality.
“We will have daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner specials, as well as a new soup of the day every day,” said Zayn. “We’re also happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, including vegan, gluten-free, dairyfree, keto, vegetarian, and various allergies. Our catering services are available for companies or events, with dishes that may not be on the regular menu, including cultural foods like those served at our opening day buffet.”
The newly renovated diner features a vibrant red, white, and black colour
scheme that combines 70s–80s retro charm with modern comfort. A standout feature is the sunroom dining area, a naturally lit space that’s perfect for a relaxing meal.
Throughout the launch, Sam, Linda, Zayn, and Keith made a point of personally connecting with every guest, ensuring everyone felt welcome and well-fed. Their dedication to genuine hospitality shone through in every detail, from generous portions to heartfelt smiles.
“We would like to thank the Town of Vermilion and the kind-hearted people who gave us their input, showed patience during our setup, and helped us get off to a positive start,” expressed Zayn.
Hours of Operation:
Monday to Friday: 6:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
They proudly serve breakfast, lunch, and supper daily.For orders, catering inquiries, or more information, call 780-853-2204.
Zayn’s Diner Plus owners and staff with Economic Development Officer Mary Lee Prior (middle), and Chamber Executive Director Karen Hughes (far left) at the new restaurant’s ribbon cutting and welcome plaque presentation and soft opening. Photo Lorna Hamilton
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Explore At The 2025 Trade Expo
The Wainwright & District Chamber of Commerce is gearing up to host its highly anticipated Trade Expo, taking place April 25–26 at the Peace Memorial Multiplex — and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever following an eight-year hiatus.
This dynamic two-day event will shine a spotlight on a wide variety of local businesses, organizations, and community groups from across the region, featuring 18 booths and 35 marketplace tables. Whether you’re a curious shopper, a
community supporter, or simply looking for something fun to do, the Trade Expo offers a unique opportunity to discover local products and services, sample tasty offerings from three food vendors and the rink concession, and connect with neighbours and entrepreneurs in a lively, interactive environment.
Families are encouraged to attend, with a dedicated Kid Zone hosted by the local FCSS and Family Resource Network, offering face painting, games and crafts. The Wainwright Public Library and Beyond A Beaten Path will also be on-site with additional activities to keep
little ones entertained while parents explore the exhibits at their leisure.
For the adults, Moonlight Bay will be hosting the Chamber Patio, where guests can enjoy a selection of adult beverages in a relaxed setting.
Businesses looking to increase their visibility and make meaningful connections still have time to get involved.
Booth spaces are still available, and a variety of sponsorship packages have been designed to help maximize brand exposure and engagement throughout the weekend.
Event Hours:
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to support local, network with industry leaders, and experience the vibrant business community that makes Wainwright and area thrive.
For more information, to book a booth, or explore sponsorship options, contact the Wainwright & District Chamber of Commerce at expotradeshow@ wdchamber.com or call 780-842-4910.
Mark your calendar and come see what Wainwright has to offer! Admission is just $2.
Lloydminster Lions Club Presents American Highwaymen
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Looking for a toe-tapping night of great music while supporting a good cause?
The Lloydminster Lions Club has you covered with a must-see event that promises to be as heartfelt as it is entertaining.
On May 8, the Kitscoty Community Hall will come alive with the sounds of classic outlaw country, as The American Highwaymen take the stage. Hailing from Phoenix, Arizona, this seven-piece tribute band captures the legendary spirit of the original supergroup—Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson.
With an all-star lineup of musicians including Ken Ronk, Brian Hauser, Jared Blackstone, and David Allen Vogelbacher, The American Highwaymen bring a 90-minute concert experience packed with nostalgia, storytelling, and precision performances. Their show has received glowing reviews across North America, with one fan describing the
experience as “nothing short of spectacular.”
Opening the night is Canadian country singer-songwriter Brady Weldon from Carrot River, Saskatchewan. With over eight years in the music scene, Weldon has made a name for himself through local performances and a string of original releases. His popular singles— Hiding Under Neon Lights (2024), My Everything (2023), and Small Town Wild (2023)—showcase his knack for relatable lyrics and a classic country sound.
This one-night-only event is more than just great entertainment—it’s an opportunity to support the Lloydminster Lions Club and the many local initiatives they champion throughout the year.
Tickets are on sale now, with tables of eight available for $500 or single tickets for $62.50. To reserve your spot, call or text Shelly at 780-870-5629.
Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of music, memories, and community spirit!
Lorna Hamilton Editor
It’s Time To Stand Up And Be Counted
As we look toward the next federal election on April 28, there’s a growing sense of frustration and fatigue with politics in general. Many people are tired of the headlines, the debates, and the promises that never seem to materialize. But no matter how disillusioned we may feel, one truth remains: voting still matters; especially now. In a time when the future of our economy, our energy sector, our agriculture, and our freedoms all hang in the balance, casting a vote is one of the most powerful tools we have.
Doreen
Flewell Klatt Columnist
In the 1950’s my Uncle Clayt and Aunt Doris ranched down here on the Battle River and checked cattle with their horses, Pokey (grey) and Pinky (a red roan, aptly named). By the 1960’s, my Dad bought the place and kept cattle on shares with my Uncle Bill and Uncle Alex. Uncle Bill would bring his big root-beer coloured gelding, Duke, down in the back of his truck with stock racks on it and joined our roundups.
We had lots of horses on our ranch, even the work horses were broke to ride. So on a big roundup in the fall, my brother Alex would get to ride Poncho, a saddle horse Dad bought for us kids and if all the other saddle horses were taken, I usually had to ride a work horse. I didn’t care as long as
Submitted
Ahhh...Sunshine and smiles on faces. Spring is amazing!
Hearts and Hands is adapting to the needs of the people calling for help. We have had fewer crisis calls for food, etc. and a vast increase in calls for other services reminiscent of a time when the crisis line was active in Vermilion in the 80’s.and 90’s. We have been able to connect several families with food banks in their own communities, assist travellers for a number of reasons (we don’t provide cash or gift cards, we only help with enough gas in the tank to get you to Lloydminster, Wainwright, St. Paul or Vegreville), connect people asking about local services when wanting to move here or are travelling through, make referrals to the health unit, Alta Works, PCN, mental health, victims services, library, MLA office, Member of Parliament office (over immigra-
Whether you support Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative Party’s message of smaller government, economic freedom, and restoring affordability…
Whether you align with Mark Carney and the Liberal Party’s vision of climate action, progressive social policies, and continued government spending… Or whether you believe in Jagmeet Singh and the NDP’s plan for expanded social programs, tax hikes on the wealthy, and larger government involvement…
This election is not just about picking a leader. It’s about choosing the direction of our country.
We also need a Prime Minister who is willing to stand up for Canada’s sovereignty on the world stage, including in dealings with the United States. As Presi-
dent Trump ramps up rhetoric and action around trade, our leader must be prepared to defend Canadian interests in the ongoing tariff and trade tensions. Whether it’s agriculture, energy, or manufacturing, we cannot afford weak leadership in the face of another trade war. Canada needs someone with the backbone to negotiate firmly, protect our economy, and prioritize what’s best for Canadians.
Here in our community, where conservative values run deep, many people are looking for a return to common sense; balanced budgets, support for working families, respect for personal freedoms, and putting Canadians first. There’s a growing desire to see leadership that reflects the priorities of everyday people; not just those living in major urban
centers. It’s easy to feel like your vote doesn’t matter. But when rural communities stay silent, we leave the future up to others. Voting isn’t about agreeing with everything a party says; it’s about standing up for what you believe in and helping to shape Canada’s future.
So whether you’re all-in for Poilievre, curious about Carney, or committed to Singh’s ideas; just show up. Talk to your neighbours. Ask questions. Read beyond the headlines. And when the time comes, cast your ballot with confidence.
Because when we vote, we do more than pick a Prime Minister; we send a message about the kind of Canada we believe in.
Horse Stories On The Ranch
I could go. Dad and Uncle Alex took the toughest ride in the river hills with one or more of my older cousins. Brother Alex and I rode with Uncle Bill usually on the easiest ride on the west trail. By easiest I mean we actually had a wagon trail to follow. If we had to chase an ornery cow, we still had some cowboy in’ to do. I can still hear Uncle Bills words “come on keep up”. I was riding Grayboy, the quietest work horse and he didn’t mind following but Uncle Bill wanted us to ride beside him because he liked to see us and talk to us. Grayboy and I would get to galloping after a cow that cut back and sometimes go right past her. I learned early that a work horse cannot cut as fast as a cattle horse. I think Grayboy enjoyed those rides as much as I did. I loved our roundups.
When we weren’t rounding up cattle, my younger siblings would ride with us on our other work horses. Festus was such a character (for lack of better words). If we had to
go through the water, she would sometimes stop and start pawing and if her rider was not quick to get her moving, she would lie down in the water. My brother was riding her one day with a new pair of cowboy boots on and she lay down on the edge of the slough, and my brother stood up on her belly to keep his new boots dry. He was not impressed but where’s a camera when you need one!
Brownie would follow the other riders but if she got the chance, she would grip the side of the bit in her mouth leaving the rider powerless on the reins and head home. She was also famous for trying to scrape her rider off on the barn door.
Lady (was not a lady) was ornery and we had to keep her distance from the other horses because she wanted to “back feet fight” when she got a chance, and that is a dangerous situation, but we managed many rides with nothing broken, nothing missing! She didn’t last very long, Dad sold
This Is Hearts And Hands
tion issues) and more. People sometimes just don›t know where to go, who to ask, or even start a process. Calls have been received from out of province, as well as Calgary, Red Deer, Sherwood Park, Two Hills, Wainwright, Elk Point and our own service area. Not everyone is comfortable with computers, text, or email and are more comfortable being able to take the time they need to talk to a person and ask questions and be able to clarify what has been said. More than one person said they miss having a phone book where they could look up numbers and services themselves.
Once again we are grateful to the BARGAIN STORE for their Spring Food Drive which will take place from APRIL 27MAY 3. They have been doing a twice a year food drive for us for several years. Thanks in advance for the awesome job done by
Cori and her staff and for the community for supporting us through them. These are the only major food drives held. We are fortunate to have several smaller ones throughout the year as well as shelf life goods from Shoppers Drug Mart, Longs, the Prairie Bistro and Bakery›s bread and soups, and we recently were approached by Canada Bread to take some of their product. With the generosity of donors, we are able to provide some supplies to smaller communities and their food banks (within our service area) helping reduce the need for calls to us from their clients.
Hearts and Hands is also coordinating the MIKE HALL DAY a mainstreet event on July 23rd in downtown Vermilion. Posters are out locally and on Facebook. Please feel free to share and tell your friends. So far things are lining up well and there has been a lot of enthusiasm. Jim Storch [780-
her off fast. I noticed they never tried any hijinks with my Dad. He was like a horse whisperer. There seemed to be some kind of silent communication between him and his hosses!
Uncle Bill gave me my first horse when I was 12. Her name was Trixie. I thought she was fun to ride even though she bucked once in a while, but her other bad habit of pawing bins bought her a ticket to town one day and Dad brought home a beautiful 2-year-old chestnut filly for me. She was a Thoroughbred cross with an American Standard Bred. We named her Cherokee. I broke and trained her. She was fancy and loved to race. Chasing cattle was interesting with her because she couldn’t stand still, and she had a very fast walk, but somehow I managed to work cows with her. I used her for 4-H as well. She became a beautiful big mare. I rode her all the time, we became inseparable. We had her for many years. Stay tuned for more stories on the ranch.
581-0952] is in charge of the car show and anyone wanting to put a vehicle in it can register with him. Tables will be available for the community organizations and businesses to showcase what they have to offer. Spaces are limited. Book these through Betty [780-581-0521]. This event is all about our great town and community. No money donated to Hearts and Hands is going toward the costs of this event. It is being put on by the community, showcasing what we are made of, and thanking the community for their generosity of spirit, for the community, visitors during fair time and MIKE fans. If you watch the RUST BROS show you will know Blair Smith...he›s coming too!
Hearts and Hands can be reached by phone ONLY: 780-581-0521 no text or email Our Facebook page is for information only.
Hamilton of the Gove nment of Canada
The Moving Of A Landmark
For many in the community, they were happy to know that the original building was still going to have a place in Vermilion after so many years as part of the history.
Contact Craig at craig@canadaehx.
Support Craig by donating at www. canadaehx.com (Click Donate)
Listen to his podcast Canadian History Ehx on all podcast platforms.
Deadline to register: April 24 5702 College Dr.
Kindergarten RegistratiOn
New Myrnam School Kindergarten orientation and registration for 2025-2026 school year will be April 24, 2025 between 4:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Students new to New Myrnam School or Myrnam Outreach and Homeschool Centre, please contact the school to register for the 2025-2026 school year for K-12.
COUNTY OF MINBURN NO. 27
ROADSIDE SPRAYING PROGRAM
The County of Minburn No. 27 ASB Department will be conducting a Roadside Spraying Program along municipal roadsides for the control of invasive weeds and brush (up to 2m tall) in the 2025 season.
If you do not want to have spraying completed adjacent to your property please contact the ASB Department office to have your name and land description added to the no spray list. Please note that “DO NOT SPRAY SIGNS” are available from the ASB Department office. There is no charge for these signs, however landowners are responsible to erect and maintain them on their property (making sure the signs are clearly visible during the entire 2025 spray season). A reminder, if a landowner does not want adjacent road allowance sprayed, the landowner will accept full responsibility for noxious weed/brush control on said road allowance or ditch.
If a no spray area is wanted along a primary or secondary highway, the landowner will have to enter into an agreement with Alberta Transportation and NOT County of Minburn.
ROADSIDE MOWING PROGRAM
advised that if you are wanting to cut hay on road allowances, that agricultural ditch cutting must be completed by July 31 each calendar year. The County of Minburn Roadside Mowing program along municipal roads will begin Friday August 1, 2025. All standing grass will be cut up to a 15 foot cut from the shoulder into the ditch. People wanting to cut hay on a road allowance need to complete all cutting prior to the mowing contractor’s arrival. If hay has been cut and is in swath, mowers will go around the swathed ditch, however all standing grass will be mowed with absolutely no exceptions.
No mowing will take place under this program prior to August 1, 2025. If crop is seeded on the road grade (shoulder to toe of slope), it will be
No Exceptions
If you should have any further questions regarding the roadside spraying program and/or the roadside mowing program please contact Quentin Bochar, Manager of Agriculture and Municipal Services at (780) 632-3715, Ext. 3.
Honouring The Heart Of The Office –Administrative Professionals Day
Lorna Hamilton Editor
Each year, Administrative Profes sionals Day reminds us to pause and acknowledge a group of individuals who are often the unsung heroes behind
the scenes of every thriving business, school, and organization. This year, on April 23, we take a moment to recognize the outstanding contributions of administrative professionals in our community.
From coordinating schedules and managing communications to ensuring operations run smoothly, administrative professionals are the backbone of efficiency. They are the first point of contact, the organizers of chaos, and the keepers of calm in the workplace. Their dedication and attention to detail create the structure that allows others to succeed in their roles.
Here in Vermilion and across our region, we are fortunate to have many talented administrative staff who go
above and beyond each day—often without fanfare. Whether working in schools, clinics, government offices, or private businesses, these individuals display professionalism, resilience, and a tireless commitment to supporting their teams.
As we mark Administrative Professionals Day, let us take time to express sincere appreciation. A thank-you note, a small gesture of kindness, or simply acknowledging their hard work can go a long way. It’s not just about one day of recognition—it’s about understanding the vital role they play all year long.
To all administrative professionals:
Meridian Donation Increases Lakeland’s Bin Yard Capacity
Lakeland College
Submitted
Lakeland College’s bin yard at the Vermilion campus received a boost Friday with the addition of a new 5,000-bushel grain bin, courtesy of Meridian Manufacturing Ltd.
“Meridian’s generous donation of this grain bin is an important step in our Student-Managed Farm Revitalization plan,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, Lakeland College’s president and CEO. “Ensuring our agricultural sciences students have access to the equipment, facilities and technology they need to make critical decisions on our StudentManaged Farm – Powered by New Holland (SMF) is an essential part of their educational experience. With this donation, Merdian is investing in more than just bin yard – they’re investing in the agricultural leaders of tomorrow.”
Crop technology students have long advocated for increased grain storage on Lakeland College’s SMF. The additional storage gives students a larger window of time to market grain, helping them hone their marketing skills and potentially capitalize on stronger prices. The new bin is also equipped with an aeration system to cool and dry grain, further enhancing learning opportunities.
“Meridian is proud to support the next generation of agricultural leaders through our donation of a grain bin to Lakeland College’s SMF,” says Jacob Welde, Meridian’s marketing manager. “We are very excited to contribute to a program that provides such valuable, hands-on learning opportunities. At Meridian, we believe that real-world experience is essential in shaping confident, capable farmers—and the SMF is a perfect example of this in action.”
Lakeland’s Student-Managed Farm
Revitalization Plan is part of the Farm Master Plan which was finalized in 2023.
A revitalized SMF will set a new bench -
mark for
tion in Alberta and align with
www.accountingvermilionab.ca
TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2025 @7:00PM
Photo Lakeland College
COmInG EVEntS FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2025 AUCTION PROGRAM: Firearms, Ammunition, Accessories, or Militaria. Collections, Estates or single items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Contact us: 1-800694-2609, Email: sales@switzersauction.com or Visit us @ www.switzersauction.com for Auction Dates & Details.
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FEEd And SEEd
SALE Paper roll ends at the Vermilion Voice, $10. GIVE AWAY Do you have give aways? Until further notice The Vermilion Voice will run your ad for FREE. Call 780-8536305 or email vermilionvoice@gmail.com
GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 500,000 Alberta readers weekly. Three options starting at $269, $299 or $599 to get your message out! KEEP people in the loop with over 75 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@awna.com for details. 1-800-282-6903, 780-434-8746 www.awna.com.
BARLEY – *NEW-AB Standswell* Smooth AWN, High Yielding, Grain and Forage Great Lodging Resistance. 1st NITROGEN USE EFFICIENT CEREAL IN CANADA. Attracting Japanese Interest. OTHER BARLEY: Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. WHEAT – Pintail, Forage or Grain. OATS –AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, CDC S01 Super Oat. PEAS – Very Early Yellow Peas, Forage Peas. ALSO AVAILABLE: Polish Canola & Spring
Triticale. mastinseeds.com; 403-556-2609. FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & Conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942. FOR SALE
WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 225. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. Quality guaranteed. HEALtH
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax
NOTICE OF ROADSIDE S PRAYING AND NO SPRAY ZONES
The County of Vermilion River will be spraying weeds and brush along road starting June 2025. Roadside spraying will focus in Spray Area 1, but we will be selectively spraying noxious weeds and brush throughout the County. If you want to control weeds and brush in front of your property rather than have the County spray, you must complete the annual NoSpray Agreement by May 31,2025. Agreements are available online or by phoning the County Office.
Please note that CVR does not spray adjacent to maintained yard sites and maintained tame shelterbelts.
Agreements are valid for the season in which they are issued and expire on September 30.
If you would like to enter into an agreement or renew one that has expired please contact the Agriculture & Environment Department at 780 -846-2244.
MOWING & HAYING
The County of Vermilion River will be mowing high traffic roadsides between July 15 and August 31, 2025. A permit is not required to hay County roadsides, however all work must be completed (hay cut, baled and bales removed) before July 15 to allow for mowing.
Photo
14th Annual 2nd Chance Trail Ride
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
The 2nd Chance Trail Ride, now in its 14th year, is set to return on May 10 with its inspiring mission to raise awareness for organ and tissue donation and support transplant recipients across the region. This year, the ride will take participants back to where it all began—along the scenic Iron Horse Trail from the Lindbergh Staging Area to the Heinsburg Staging Area.
Founded in 2012 by double lung transplant recipient Morris Irvine, the 2nd Chance Trail Ride began as a way to give back and show the life-changing power of organ donation. The inaugural ride took place on May 5, 2012, and included seven transplant recipients, including Irvine, along with fellow double lung recipients Tom Matthews and Harvey Nelson. They were later joined by Edna Krys, Diane
Spring Fling
Brown, Lorne Topley, and Gail Dustow. The event was created to celebrate life, encourage donor registration, and connect people through shared experiences.
What began as a modest gathering has since grown into a major community event. By 2018, more than 360 participants and 36 wagons took part. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, organizers adapted with safety protocols and online fundraising, ensuring the ride’s mission continued uninterrupted.
Behind the ride is the 2nd Chance Trail Ride Society, a non-profit organization that not only hosts the annual event but also provides essential support to transplant recipients. Their initiatives include financial assistance for essentials, subsidized accommodations, and funding for medical equipment. The society also engages in public outreach, includ -
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Peas- AAC Carver, AAC Ardill
Feed Barley- Sirish
CWRS- AAC Wheatland VB, AAC
ing school presentations and community events, to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation.
Registration for this year’s ride opens at 9 a.m. at the Lindbergh Staging Area, with complimentary coffee and muffins to start the day. The trail ride begins at 10 a.m. The cost is $50 per rider, which includes the trail ride, a shuttle, a late BBQ lunch, and a bandana. Participants can also ride for free by collecting $50 or more in pledges. For nonriders who still want to take part, a $25 registration fee includes lunch and a bandana.
Adding to the excitement is the popular poker rally. Riders can purchase poker hands for $20 each and stop along the trail to play, with prizes awarded to the winners.
For more details or to register, visit www.secondchancetrailride.ca.
Hockley, AAC Viewfield
Malt Barley- AAC Connect
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Soft White- AAC Paramount VB
Seed Treating Available On All Varieties
5.5 Miles north of Mannville
Call Scott: 780-581-5693 | Greg: 780-787-1246 Or visit us at www.kseeds.ca
Hollow River o ers competitive wages, full-time permanent positions, a regular work schedule, and company health bene ts package.
Hollow River Transport Inc is based in Elk Point, AB, and has trucking contracts throughout Alberta. To apply, email your resume and a 5 year Commercial Abstract to jruud@hollowrivertransport.com or call 780-522-1009 for more information.
Small Town, Big Dreams: Vermilion Dance Association Team Earns Spot At Nationals In Kelowna
Sonya Lee Reporter
In a heartwarming display of talent, determination, and community spirit, a local dance team has achieved what many only dream of earning; a coveted spot at The Standing Ovation National Finals in Kelowna, BC May 25 - 28.
For this group of young dancers and their dedicated instructor, Chloe Maxwell (Miss Chloe), it’s a moment that reflects years of hard work, passion, and perseverance. The routines had to score 90 or above and be awarded a high gold medal.
When speaking with the dancers they all barely contained their excitement at this accomplishment. The team is abuzz with enthusiasm and energy and gratitude to Miss Chloe for helping them find their best selves as dancers and creating such a close and connected dance family.
Each dancer brings their own unique flair to the group, competing in various styles from ballet, jazz and lyrical to hip-hop. When asked which style was their favourite, the answers varied, but one thing was clear they all love to dance together on stage led by Miss Chloe.
Tough days have been part of the journey. Balancing school, personal commitments, and training several evenings a week as well as festivals, but the dancers have found a way to manage it all.
Miss Chloe started instructing at
Vermilion Dance Association three years ago, with an extensive dance student history. According to Miss Chloe, “People said I couldn’t do it, I was nervous but we (the parent board, the parents, the dancers and myself) stuck together and we have grown into a close-knit dance family. I am proud of the dancers and myself and how much growth has happened in the past three years.”
“In a small town, we don’t always have the same opportunities as urban teams,” Miss Chloe explained. “But what we do have is grit, creativity, and the support of an amazing community.”
As the team prepares to take the national stage, their message to younger dancers in their town is clear, “Dream big and keep going.”
For Miss Chloe, the pride is immeasurable. “Seeing their joy, their growth, and their commitment means everything,” Maxwell said. “They’re proof that talent, and heart can come from anywhere, even the smallest of towns.”
Vermilion Dance Association (VDA) is currently looking for some community support for their trip to Nationals. They are selling chocolate bars (3 for $5) and chocolate covered almonds ($5 per box) as well as collecting refundable bottles. Maxwell stated, “Some businesses have reached out to offer sponsorship.” You can reach out to Miss Chloe at 780-5819095 or Jaime Couture at 780-259-0065 if you would like to support VDA dancers and their National Finals trip.
From left, back row - Charlotte Howe, Shelby Carlson, Ava Underhill, Anna Pawlak, Sadie Croke, Brynn Ellerton, Bryar Garnett, Bridgette Grokoff, Harper Zaharko, Akiesha Mandocdoc, and Julia Chavez Martinez. From left, Front row - Harper Tennant, Marley Waltz, Lona Couture, Palmer Hartwell, and Gemma Morrison. Photo submitted