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Volume 21-Issue 1090
August 5, 2025
Ponies, Prizes, And Pure Adrenaline: Trick Riding Thrills
Sonya Lee Reporter
The CTRA trick riding competition, held just north of Wainwright on July 28 and 29, was a thrilling showcase of athleticism and horsemanship. Starting each morning at 10 a.m., the event drew an enthusiastic crowd ready to cheer on the talented young riders participating in the Diamonds & Dust equestrian trick riding competition.
Riders gathered to demonstrate their skills through a series of daring maneuvers, including hanging drags and standing tricks that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. These young athletes displayed not only courage and agility but also a deep bond with their horses, something that was evident in every performance.
Cash and candy prizes were awarded across the Pee Wee, Youth, Intermediate, and Open divisions, creating plenty of excitement for both competitors and their families. The level of talent on display, combined with a strong spirit of sportsmanship, carried through both days of competition. The Diamonds & Dust theme brought a festive energy to the arena, with sparkling decorations and cheerful music adding to the lively atmosphere.
Hero’s Food Truck was on-site throughout the two-day event, serving crowd favourites that ranged from hearty burgers and fries to cool drinks and sweet treats. Their presence was much appreciated by families spending the day under the summer sun, cheering on the riders.
First-place winners included Kitt Leskow (Pee Wee), Rhye Miller (Youth), Abby Stojanowski (Intermediate), and Kloe Holt (Open). Each received a pair of ruby stud earrings from Wainwright Credit Jewellers, along with an assortment of prizes from other event sponsors. Every participant walked away with prizes and plenty of smiles.
The event was a resounding success, bringing together community members, equestrian enthusiasts, and families for two days of fun and competition. With the growing popularity of equestrian trick riding, this year’s competition set a high bar and left everyone excited for what next year will bring.
Aubrin Andersen performing the Suicide Drag.
Rhye Miller slaying the extended backbreaker.
Linden Ganser rocking a one foot from high strap. Photos Charlene Tondu
Sonya Lee Reporter
Breakaway Roping Thrives In Vermilion With Local Summer Series
The Vermilion Agricultural Society Breakaway Roping Jackpot Series brought together a strong field of talented women and an enthusiastic crowd at the Vermilion Rodeo Grounds on July 29. Starting at 7 p.m., the event delivered high-energy competition and added intensity to the overall standings as breakaway ropers vied for top placements in one of rodeo’s fastest-growing events. With only two jackpot opportunities left before the series finals, every run counted, and the competition reflected it.
Breakaway roping is a timed rodeo event that blends speed, precision, and horsemanship. A mounted rider ropes a calf around the neck, and when the rope breaks away from the saddle horn, the clock stops. Legal catches must be a “bell collar catch,” and timing is everything; most winning runs are under three seconds. Too fast off the line, and a rider breaks the electric-eye barrier, incurring a 10-second penalty. Too slow, and they risk missing the calf entirely. It’s one of the most exciting events to watch and one of the most technical to master.
The July 29 jackpot marked the fourth competition in the 2025 series. Beyond the jackpots themselves, Carla Pocock has
participation from a broad range of athletes. Held throughout the summer, the Vermilion series is quickly gaining a reputation for its professional feel, family-friendly environment, and fast-paced action. Spectators enjoy free admission and an easy-to-follow format, making it a welcoming entry point into the world of rodeo for newcomers.
Many of the top female ropers in the region have shown up to compete here, including local standouts like Ashley Watt, Brittany Schuck, Charlee Edge and Kayley Anderson. These athletes not only bring top-level performance but also serve as role models and mentors to the next generation of competitors.
The series has become an important platform for women in rodeo. For many years, barrel racing was the only event available to women after high school and college. Breakaway roping is changing that, providing another high-skill, high-stakes event where women can shine. While it still doesn’t enjoy full inclusion across all levels of amateur and professional rodeo, events like Vermilion’s are helping to shift that tide. The supportive atmosphere and sense of community among competitors have become just as much a hallmark of the series as the fierce competition itself.
“This series isn’t just about roping fast, it’s
coordination with the Ag Society and volunteers at every event; Gord Ziegler, who supplies cattle, judges, and helps manage the events; his wife, Susan, who has announced many of the jackpots; and Margie Axten, who prepares the draw. Their work, along with others, ensures the smooth operation of each round.
Generous sponsorship has elevated the series even further. Prizes at the upcoming Finals Jackpot include championship buckles from UFA and Connor Njaa, custom pendants from Diamond K Customs and Anchor A Farms. Handcrafted leather stools from Prairie Wind Leather Works, Breezy Hill Equine, and Anchor A Farms, as well as overnight stay certificates from Endurance Equine in Ponoka. Additional contributions come from Wowk Ranches, Vermilion Livestock Exchange, R&B Creations, and others who believe in building a sport that matters.
The Finals, scheduled for August 20, 2025, will feature a sudden-death format open to all entrants, though only those who have competed in at least three of the five regular season events will be eligible to win the top prizes. Added money will ensure the final has a true championship atmosphere, while still keeping the door open for new
competitors to join in.
The Vermilion Agricultural Society Breakaway Series is about more than fast times and big prizes. It’s about building a lasting foundation for women’s rodeo, creating a space where girls can see themselves as athletes and champions beyond the barrel pattern. It’s about mentorship, community, and the joy of competition.
Support has come not just from volunteers and sponsors, but from institutions like Lakeland College, which has offered its indoor arena as a backup venue and stands ready to assist with anything the series might need. Event coverage has also helped raise the series’ profile, with K Cow Design Photography capturing stunning stills and Boss Mare Marketing providing professional videography, both of which are considered essential in giving the events the elevated feel and lasting memories that competitors and fans love.
With the next jackpot scheduled for August 6, Vermilion Breakaway Roping Series is heading toward an exciting close. It’s already proven itself as one of the most important grassroots rodeo events in Alberta this summer, a place where talent, passion, and community come together in the arena.
Ally Pocock and Hickey full speed and focused showing off their roping skills.
Photo Kailey Wirsta from K Cow Design
Dawn Hames Columnist
Its raspberry picking time; Raspberries are a prairie gem that is easy to grow, and yield a constant plethora of fruit for weeks and weeks during the summer. My earliest memories are of eating them at my Baba’s in a bowl, with a teaspoon of sugar floating in rich thick farm fresh cream. If there were any unseen worms in the raspberries, they floated to the top, once the cream was poured on where they could be easily removed.
Our raspberries started to get ready around the third week of July this year
Doreen Flewell Klatt Columnist
Did you ever learn how to water ski? I learned to water ski when I was 22 years old in Touchwood Lake in Alberta. Water skiing was a foreign concept to me. I had been to a lake maybe twice in my life at that point. What could convince this country girl to try such an endeavor? Why a good-looking self-proclaimed water-skiing prodigy whom I also happened to work with. “Come on”, he says, “I’ll teach you myself”. It was a beautiful summer day when we travelled to Touchwood Lake with a group of friends from work. I remember it like yesterday. Some knew how to water ski and the remainder would try it for the first time along with me. When we arrived, the sun was glittering on the lake like polished glass, and I can still smell the pleasant scent of wood smoke mingling with the faint aroma
Raspberry Freezer Jam
and they became the first batch of Freezer Jam. One of the great benefits of freezer jam is that, it is a jam with less sugar, and since this jam it not cooked, it is bursting with all the taste and nutrients of fresh raspberries. Packing the jam in a small size container is preferred over large containers because once you unfreeze the jam, it needs to be used up with a few weeks, as it does not have the preserving qualities of a high sugar jam, but of course if you have a big family, that can eat a lot in a short time, then larger containers are the way to go. My husband and family love this jam, and it is my husband that makes it and this is his recipe. The grandchildren love to have it on toast when they come to visit. They also all love eating fresh raspberries with all their breakfasts, or they
enjoy them outside, picked straight off the bush. Food doesn’t get any fresher that that.
Raspberries are a great source of vitamin C which is a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system. Raspberries contain many beneficial antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and flavonoids. Raspberries are very low in sugar, with 1 cup having only 5 grams of sugar. Raspberries contain compounds that help to protect from heart disease, cancer, arthritis, obesity and diabetes. In a study, at the Illinois Institute of Technology they found that eating 2 cups of raspberries a day reduced the amount of insulin needed and produced better blood sugar control. Raspberries, with their powerful antioxidants, boost brain health and
Learning To Water Ski
of pine trees. I cinched my life jacket far too tight around my torso making sure it wasn’t moving. As per the instructions I received, I walked out into the lake and picked up the tow line. A fellow skier assisted me in getting my feet into the rubber bindings on the two long fibreglass water skis. The tow line assisted me to stay balanced. The boat’s engine roared to life, sending a small flock of ducks scattering into the wild blue yonder which is where I thought I would be shortly. I adjusted my grip on the towline as though it were my only lifeline. The selfproclaimed water-skiing prodigy was at the helm. “Just lean back, keep your balance, and let the boat do the work,” he shouted. I thought it sounded so simple. The first attempt went “not” as expected; the boat revved, the towline tightened, and I face-planted into the water with such grace, like a video clip from “America’s Funniest Videos”. (Too bad it wasn’t a program back then; someone could have won some money at my expense!)
On the second try, my feet managed to
rise but I was wobbling like a newborn calf. I was getting the hang of it for about five seconds when my skis dug into the water, and it was head over heels once again. (0 for 2)
I was determined to get this, and a few attempts later, I rose smoothly, knees slightly bent, and I was skiing! A brandnew exhilarating experience! It wasn’t graceful, it wasn’t glamorous, but it was so much fun, and I was hooked for years to come. That beautiful blue sky and the warm spray off the water with not a ripple, told me the huge lake was mine to discover on skis. The wake created by the boat was a delightful discovery as I intersected it several times successfully. My work comrades all faired reasonably well too. We took turns gliding across the lake that day and it was a great topic of discussion for the lot of us.
Slalom skiing became very popular during my skiing years, but I never did learn to slalom. I was quite happy with two fibreglass skis with a fin on the bottom.
PUBLIC NOTICE
SALE OF MUNICIPAL
LANDS
The County of Minburn invites offers to purchase lands within the County, described as
For more information about the lands and/or the requirements to submit an offer on one or more of the parcels, please visit the County website at: https://minburncounty.ab.ca/tenders
Offers on the properties described must be received by the County by 4:00 p.m. on August 13, 2025.
Publisher: Susan Chikie
Editor: Lorna Hamilton
memory, and help sweep out unhealthy toxic proteins in the brain. Another amazing benefit is that raspberries are a very high fiber food, with a whopping 8 grams of fiber per cup.
Raspberry Freezer Jam 8 cups of raspberries, checked over 1 cups sugar 1 package of freezer jam pectin, 45 gram In a large 8 cup measuring cup, add the raspberries and then mash gently. Add the sugar and pectin until dissolved. Taste to determine sweetness, and add more sugar to your desired sweetness. Let it sit for 10 minutes for the sugar to melt into the jam. Bottle in freezer safe 1 cup containers. Freeze. To use take out of the freezer ahead of time to thaw.
But I watched others make rooster tails and precise arcs on their slalom routine (purely athletic artistry) and take impressive low body positions on the water. The only low body position on the water I ever took was when I pushed the boundary of my abilities and crashed landed in the water! No matter, it was all an adrenaline rush!
Fast forward to today, the sport is more inclusive than ever before. Adaptive equipment has been designed for individuals with disabilities, including sit-skis and other specialized gear, increasing the accessibility of water skiing. People of all ages and abilities can enjoy water skiing. Wakeboarding is now hugely popular and has captured the interest of many enthusiasts.
Even though I felt unstoppable as a young athlete and my “small world” was my playground, the years really do spin by, and I no longer water ski. I married that goodlooking self-proclaimed water-skiing prodigy and he doesn’t ski anymore either, but we sure have some laughs reminiscing.
Photographer / Reporter: Lorna Hamilton, Sonya Lee
Graphic Design: Sally Pyoun
Sales: Susan Chikie, Lorna Hamilton
Sonya Lee Reporter
July 25 brought together a small group of curious and kindred guests, hosted by
Forest To Table Plant Walk
among those highlighted during the Field Notes and Folk Stories Walk. Participants were invited to observe and learn about the plants’ ecological roles, medicinal uses,
meal. Each dish was a celebration of local abundance, featuring wild greens, fruits, garden-grown herbs, and recipes rooted in cultural heritage. The flavours were familiar
that emerges when people come together with intention. The Ladybird Company has hinted at future seasonal gatherings to come. If this
Sonya Lee Reporter
On Thursday, July 31, the Vermilion Public Library hosted a hands-on STEAM Day activity that brought science and engineering concepts to life for local children. STEAM, standing for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math, focuses on integrated learning experiences that spark curiosity and foster critical thinking. This year’s engaging activity challenged participants to design and build their own working robotic arms.
Using everyday materials like straws, yarn or thread, cardstock, and tape, children constructed mechanical hands that mimicked the movement of human fingers. The goal of the project was to give kids a fun, visual understanding of how the muscles and tendons in our hands work together to create motion.
As they pulled on the yarn “tendons” and watched the cardboard “fingers” curl, participants explored basic biomechanics and engineering principles in an accessible, creative way.
Library staff guided the activity and provided support as children worked through their designs. Some children worked independently, while others collaborated in small groups, helping each other troubleshoot challenges and refine their robotic arm mechanisms.
The children were engaged as they are with all of these projects and days at the library. The children got to think critically while also having fun. Activities like this show how science and creativity can go hand in hand.
The event was part of the Vermilion Public Library’s ongoing efforts to promote STEAM education through inter-
active programming. By incorporating both science and art elements, the library aims to offer learning opportunities that are not only educational but also enjoyable and hands-on.
Robotic Arm Challenge Brings STEAM Learning To Life
By the end of the session, each child left with a deeper understanding of how the human hand works. More importantly, they walked away inspired to keep exploring, building, and asking questions.
Little scientists at work building robotic hands. Photo submitted
Ladybird Company forest to table dinner. Photo submitted
Clandonald Country Fair Promises A Day Of Family Fun And Tradition
The Clandonald Country Fair is just around the corner, and this year’s theme, “Building For The Future,” is sure to set the stage for another exciting day packed with fun, laughter, and community spirit.
Kicking off on Friday, August 8, the fair will begin accepting entries for the muchanticipated bench show between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. This is always a great chance for local talent to shine, showcasing everything from homegrown produce to
The main day of events will take place on Saturday, August 9, starting bright
$12 per person, fairgoers can enjoy a hearty meal while tapping their toes to the lively sounds of The Prairie Dogs, returning again this year to kick off the day with music and energy.
One of the annual highlights—the parade—will begin at 11:30 a.m., featuring a colourful procession of floats, antique tractors, horses, and more. It’s a tradition that brings out smiles in young and old alike and sets the tone for a day full of fun.
This year’s fair will be packed with activities for all ages. Kids can look
Fan favourites like the watermelon eating contest and mutton busting will return, promising messy, thrilling fun that always draws a crowd. Plus, the Fire Department Demo is expected to wow spectators once again with its engaging and educational display.
Adding to the lively atmosphere, Pipes & Drums will be on-site, and families can enjoy a full slate of entertainment throughout the day.
With free admission, the Clandonald Country Fair continues to be a welcom ing event that brings together neigh bours, families, and visitors from near and far. Come out and be part of a cher ished tradition that continues to grow stronger every year.
Pancake Breakfast: 8 - 10 am
Parade - 11:30 am
Entertainment
Facepainting Bingo
Mutton Busting
Petting Zoo
Fire Department Demos
Watermelon Eating Contest Bouncy House and so much more...
Vermilion 4-H Sheep Club Achievement Day Results
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
After months of working with their lambs and goats to present on their annual Achievement Day the Vermilion 4-H Sheep Club members proudly had the opportunity to present their animals on July 22 at the 50th Annual Achievement Day Show and Sale. Here are the results of the day.
Ewe Lamb Grand Champion went to Owen Newman, and the Reserve Champion was awarded to Nora Newman. The Yearling Ewe Grand Champion was given to Madison Flanders, while Mackenzie Flanders took the Reserve Champion. The Mature Ewe Grand Champion was awarded to Owen Newman, and Reserve Champion was Mackenzie Flanders. The Supreme Champion Female was given to Owen Newman.
In the Flock category Owen Newman
once again took the Grand Champion and Nora Newman came in with the Reserve Champion.
The Cleaver Conformation was Bennett Sweet, Bodie Sweet, Maggie Sweet, and Margaret Barmentloo.
Intermediate Homegrown Market Lamb – Nora Newman came in 1st with Jase Mudryk taking 2 nd . Senior Homegrown Market Lamb- 1st was Avery Corbiere, 2nd Mackenzie Flanders.
Grand Champion Homegrown Market Lamb was awarded to Nora Newman and Reserve Champion was Jase Mudryk
Junior Showmanship- 1st was Lukas Smith, 2nd Lane Arnold. Intermediate Showmanship - 1st Jase Mudryk, and 2nd Madison Flanders. Senior Showmanship – 1st Avery Corbiere, and 2nd Mackenzie Flanders. The Grand Champion in the Showmanship category was Avery Corbiere and
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Reserve Champion was Jase Mudryk.
In the Junior Sheep Grooming Connor Smith took 1st while Carl Barmentloo received 2nd place. In Intermediate Sheep Grooming Owen Newman was 1st and Madison Flanders took 2nd. Senior Sheep Grooming- 1st place Avery Corbiere, and 2nd place was Mackenzie Flanders.
Grand Champion Sheep Grooming was Owen Newman and Reserve Champion Sheep Grooming was Mackenzie Flanders. In Goat Grooming Grand Champion went to Mackenzie Flanders and the Reserve went to Katie Sargeant.
Junior Market Lamb 1st place went to Lukas Smith and 2nd place went to Timothy Barmentloo. Intermediate Market Lamb was Nora Newman in 1st place and Ryan Sargeant in 2nd place. Senior Market Lamb 1st place was awarded to Avery Corbiere, 2nd was awarded to Katie Sargeant. Grand Champion Market Lamb was awarded to Nora Newman, with Ryan Sargeant taking the Reserve Champion title.
Market Goat Grand Champion was Katie
Sargeant and Reserve was Ryan Sargeant. Cleaver Judging was: Bennet Sweet, Margaret Barmentloo, Maggie Sweet, and Bodie Sweet. Junior Judging was Carl Barmentloo in 1st and Timothy Barmentloo in 2nd place. Intermediate Judging Madison Flanders took 1st and Nora Newman came in 2nd In Alumni Showmanship Grand Champion went to Kaylie Lawrence, Reserve went to Clay Corbiere. Cleaver Grooming/Showmanship was Bennett Sweet, Bodie Sweet, Maggie Sweet and Margaret Barmentloo, The Herdsmanship award went to Lane Arnold. The Best Average Daily Gain-Clever Project-.730 lbs/day was Maggie Sweet. Best Average Daily Gain-Market Lamb was Katie Sargeant with .950lbs/day. The Best Average Daily Gain-Market Goat was Ryan Sargeants. The Club Judge was Kaylie Lawrence, Home Grown Judge was Andrew McCrae, the Emcee was Charlene Carey, the ring person for the day was Megan Krys and the auctioneer was Edward McCormack.
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Center, Lane Arnold with his Herdsmanship trophy. Photo submitted
Walking Through Grief Society
Submitted
Masked grief is a type of grief in which a person does not recognize or acknowledge that their emotional or physical symptoms are actually related to a loss. Instead of expressing sorrow or mourning in a way that’s typically recognized as grief (like crying or talking about the deceased), they might show it in indirect waysthat may include experiencing physical pain, feeling irritable, overworking themselves, or engaging in risky behaviour. Masked grief can be confusing for the individual because they generally do not recognize their grief, and it can be confusing for family and friends to understand how to best support their loved ones.
When people feel that they need to
Masked Grief
move on quickly from their loss, this can lead to masked grief. It is also common for individuals who may not feel that their loss is valid. For example, if someone loses a pet, if they lose a former partner, or if they lose a baby due to miscarriage, they may be more likely to feel like they must move on because these losses are not always recognized as significant in society.
There are many signs that could indicate a loved one is experiencing masked grief. You may notice that they experience sudden changes in their behaviour (e.g. engaging in more risky behaviour, such as alcohol or drug use) or changes in their mood (e.g. angrier than is typical for the person). Additional sudden changes may be noticed in how someone identifies physical health concerns. Often, when
Rotary Club Fair Cheque Presentation
DATE: August 11, 2025
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TIME: 9:05 AM
LOCATION: Village of Kitscoty Council Chambers, 5011-50 Street and via ZOOM Webinar
All Public Hearings are held during Regular Meetings of Council and are open to the public with attendance either inperson or via ZOOM Webinar. Written and verbal presentations may be given during the Public Hearing.
PURPOSE:
The County of Vermilion River has received an application to adopt an Area Structure Plan for subdivision within NE-7-51-6W4M (as shown in the tentative plan).
The proposed Canola Farms Area Structure Plan (the “ASP”) intends to exceed the maximum density of an agricultural quarter for Country Residential, creating a total of five (5) titles for the quarter section. The ASP area, located within NE -7-51-6W4M, is primarily agricultural and contains four (4) existing residential parcels a suspended well site, wetlands and forested areas.
A copy of the Canola Farms Area Structure Plan (Bylaw 25-17) can be viewed at the County of Vermilion River Office during regular business hours (Monday through Friday from 8:30AM to 4:30PM) at 505040 Hwy 897 by emailing planning@county24.com or on the County of Vermilion River Website here: https://www.vermilionriver.com/your-county/public-engagement
Should you wish to provide oral or written presentation to Council on this matter, please take note of the following requirements:
Any person claiming to be affected by the proposed Canola Farms Area Structure Plan for NE -7-516W4M may attend the Public Hearing either in-person or virtually via ZOOM Webinar and provide their input during the Public Hearing.
To attend the Public Hearing virtually, you must register prior to the Public Hearing here: https://www.vermilion-river.com/your-county/meeting-agendas-and-minutes
Written submissions should be submitted by emailing planning@county24.com, or by mail to Box 69 Kitscoty, AB T0B 2P0 no later than August 6, 2025 at 12:00 PM to be included as part of the Agenda Package for the August 11, 2025 Regular Meeting of Council , and must be related to the topic of the Public Hearing.
Presentations may be limited to five (5) minutes in length.
The names of those who wish to speak, or have submitted written presentation will be recorded in the minutes of the August 11, 2025 Regular Meeting of Council and will be published on the County of Vermilion River website. (Personal information is protected by the privacy provisions of the Access to Information Act and the Protection of Privacy Act)
For additional information related to the Public Hearing , please contact the Planning and Community Services
Department:
Phone: (780) 846-2244 | Email: planning@county24.com
someone is experiencing masked grief, their immune system may be impacted, and they could be experiencing more illness than usual. Physical pain can also be more pronounced as the psychological aspects of grief and pain overlap with how the body shows grief and pain. Another sign of masked grief is avoidance of talking about the loss or putting one’s effort solely into work. If you suspect a loved one may be experiencing masked grief, there are several approaches you can consider for supporting them. You can take a curious stance asking if they have noticed any changes in themselves and remind them that grief shows up in different ways. You can normalize grief and loss regardless of the type of loss they experienced – acknowledging
loss that is less recognized by society might be powerful for your loved one. You can offer to engage with them in outlets that you could work on together, such as walking and talking or attending a yoga class together. You may also want to suggest professional support for your loved one to be able to speak with someone who specializes in navigating different types of grief and loss.
Detecting masked grief can be difficult because of the way it presents itself. It is hoped that by knowing some of the signs and strategies for support, you may feel better equipped to support your loved ones if this may be their experience.
Funded by FCSS; City of Lloydminster, Towns of Vermilion and Wainwright, Village of Kitscoty.and County of Vermilion River.
COUNTY HIGHLIGHTS
Photo Contest ”Explore the County” Join the County for the 6th annual photo contest! This year our calendar theme is “Explore the County”. To enter the contest, email photos along with the photo permission form on our website to photocontest@county24.com. Winning photos will be featured in the 2026 “Explore the County” calendar. Contest ends August 15, 2025.
Explore the County of Vermilion River Visitor Guide - Pick up your copy of the County’s visitor guide at local businesses to explore and experience everything the County has to offer. A digital copy of the guide can be found on the Explore the County webpage.
ADMINISTRATION:
Interested in running for your Division in the 2025 Municipal Election? Nomination papers are being accepted now through Monday, September 22, 2025. Election Nomination Packages are available on the County website. Any questions can be directed to our Returning Officer by emailing election@county24.com
Tax Payment Deadline is October 1, 2025 if you have not received your Assessment and Tax Notice, please contact our office to ensure our Alberta Land Title address matches your mailing address.
AGRICULTURE & ENVIRONMENT:
ALUS Adventure Wetland Days - ALUS will be back with their Wetland Adventure Days at Hazeldine Campground on August 13 and Lindsay Evans Park on August 14. Drop in anytime between 4 7 PM to explore and have some fun learning about the critters you can find in a wetland. These adventures are sure to be a lot of fun for the whole family.
PLANNING & COMMUNITY SERVICES:
Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) funding application deadline is September 30, 2025. Please contact the Community Development Coordinator if your non-profit is interested in applying for 2026 funding.
For Sale: There are a number of properties and vacant lots for sale in the County. Visit our Land Listing Section of our website for more details.
PROTECTIVE SERVICES:
Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment: If you are interested in volunteering with one of our stations (Blackfoot, Clandonald, Dewberry, Islay, Kitscoty, Marwayne or Paradise Valley), please contact the County at fire@county24.com
Reminder to check our website www.vermilion -river.com for news, events, announcements, employment opportunities and more! For current news and updates, follow County of Vermilion River on our social media pages.
Scott Webb presenting a cheque for $2,025 to Grant Bulduc of Lloydminster. His name was drawn at the Fair for the Rotary Club Fair Raffle draw. Photo submitted
Run To The Hills Memorial Rally A Resounding Success In Two Hills
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
The 18th Run to the Hills Memorial Rally and 4th Annual Bike Week roared through the town of Two Hills from July 18 to 26, delivering an unforgettable nine-day celebration of motorcycles, music, community spirit, and heartfelt remembrance.
Held at the Geleta Park Rally Grounds and the Two Hills Centennial Arena, the event drew hundreds of motorcyclists, visitors, and families from across Alberta and beyond. What began years ago as a shared vision between motorcycle enthusiasts Bob Ross and Mark Kussman has now grown into one of the area’s most anticipated and meaningful summer events.
The rally’s mission remains twofold: to rejuvenate the local community and to honour fallen riders. Through incredible community support and dedicated volunteers, that mission continues to thrive. At
the heart of the event is the Wayside Fallen Riders Memorial Park, a peaceful space complete with a chapel, barbecue area, and a powerful sculpture of a rider kneeling before a cross. Over the week, many attendees visited the site to pay tribute to those they’ve lost, including during the emotionally resonant memorial service and roll call on the final Saturday.
This year’s rally lived up to its reputation, offering an action-packed lineup of entertainment and activities for all ages. From canoe tours, flat track racing, and poker runs, to live music, RCW Wrestling, and the always-popular Boars Nest Burlesque Show, each day brought something new. The community was especially engaged during events like the Classic Car Show, Biker Yoga, and the spirited FCSS Mainstreet Chili Cook-Off.
The rally’s family-friendly events also shone, including the Beauvallon Coffee
Open FaRm Days
FARM
Sat. August 16 th | 11am - 5 pm
Run, zombie costume party, and children’s activities throughout the week. The Great Goofy Gameshow Night and performances by acts like Ferny Turnbull Band, Striving for Adequacy, and Almost Brothers Band kept energy high well into the evenings.
Special highlights included the Bike Show ’n’ Shine, the high-energy Bike Rodeo, and a spectacular final weekend filled with live music, food, and camaraderie. Vendors, food trucks, tattoo artists, and even golf packages rounded out the offerings, ensuring there was something for every type of visitor—riders and non-riders alike.
Organizers praised the success of this year’s rally and the continued support from both the local community and attendees from far and wide. “We were thrilled
with the turnout and the positive energy throughout the week,” said one committee member. “This event has always been about more than just motorcycles—it’s about connection, remembrance, and community pride.”
As always, safety and inclusivity were top priorities. Gate admission options made it accessible for everyone, with children under 18 admitted free with an adult and special community access offered on Sunday, July 20, which was free to attend.
The Run to the Hills Memorial Rally and Bike Week has once again proven itself as a staple of summer in Two Hills—where roaring engines meet heartfelt memories, and the community comes together to celebrate life on the open road.
Photo submitted
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41st Grand North
American Old Time Fiddle Championship Draws Crowds In Fort Saskatchewan
Lorna Hamilton Reporter
Fort Saskatchewan was alive with the sounds of fiddles and footstomping music from July 17-20, as the Dow Centennial Centre welcomed the 41st Grand North American Old Time Fiddle Championship Festival (GNA). This milestone event attracted a passionate community of musicians, dancers, and enthusiasts, all gathered to celebrate their love for old-time fiddle music.
The stakes were high this year, with over $16,000 in prize money up for grabs, marking one of the largest payouts in North America.
The four-day festival was packed with activities, ensuring there was something for everyone. The festivities kicked off with two days of intense fiddle competition, featuring a variety of categories to showcase the talents of participants, and a beginners Step-dance workshop, The lively atmosphere continued with a Friday Old Time Country Barn Dance, a Saturday Old Time Family Dance, and numerous fiddle jam sessions that encouraged spontaneous musical collaborations.
A highlight of the weekend was the Banquet, and a performance by Collectif de danse Zephyr.
For the third consecutive year, a Youth Fiddle Camp was held, providing young fiddlers aged 8-13 with a supportive environment to hone their skills and bond over their shared passion.
Spectators were treated to a special showcase on Saturday afternoon when the four esteemed judges—Jarred Albright from Edmonton, Paul Lemelin from Sudbury, Ontario, Lucas Welsh from Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan, and Patti Kusturok from, Sanford, Manitoba—each delivered a short performance. These accomplished fiddlers demonstrated their mastery, inspiring both participants and audiences alike.
The event drew an impressive crowd, with over 200 spectators each day enjoying the Saturday and Sunday competitions. This year’s championship featured 75 talented fiddle participants hailing from Alberta, Manitoba, British Columbia, Ontario. The GNA has cultivated a loyal following over the years, with many attendees returning annually, while for others, it was their first time experiencing the magic of this fiddle championship.
Organizers expressed their delight at the large turnout and the vibrant atmosphere that filled the Dow Centennial Centre. The community spirit and shared love for fiddle music were palpable throughout the festival.
As the 41st Grand North American Old Time Fiddle Championship came to a close, excitement was already building for next year’s event. Mark your calendars for July 16-19, 2026, when the Dow Centennial Centre in Fort Saskatchewan will once again host this beloved tradition, promising another unforgettable celebration of fiddle music and camaraderie.
The Cornerstone Co-op Gas Bar Holds BBQ Letter To The Editor
Submitted
I walked in the parade for the Vermilion Lions Club as I have the past 10 or so years. I do not remember ever seeing as many people, young and old alike, with many, many children watching the parade.
Near the end of the parade route, (on the corner of the ravine, on the way to the hospital) if my memory serves me correctly,) one little girl (4-6 years old,) had her bag open for me to drop something in it. By that time, we had run out of candy and Mardi Gras beads, we had been handing out to the children along the way.
I went over to her, and said, “I’m sorry,sweetheart, I don’t have any candy left. That little girl reach into her bag, and brought out a small box of candy, she had got at the parade, and wanted to give it
to me. I told her to keep the candy, it was hers and that it was ok. There were two adult ladies with her and I heard one say, “look at her, she wants to give that lady her candy.”
That gesture has touched my heart ever since, to know there IS caring and sharing, and giving in Vermilion. Kudos to her parents!!!
On that note, I would sincerely like to meet that little girl sometime soon, again, if possible, to show her my gratitude for that, as I have something for her. She will excel in the world!
Marion Smth
PS. If anyone out there knows who she would be please contact the Vermilion Voice, for my phone number. Thank you and hope to hear soon.
On July 31 under sunny skies and scorching heat the Cornerstone Co-op Gas Bar held a BBQ fundraiser offering hotdogs and hamburgers along with a drink from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with all proceeds going to the Vermilion Heritage Museum. From left, museum volunteers Linda Swan, Jean Murie, and Liz Perron. Photo Lorna Hamilton