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Two Vermilion Lodge Residents Celebrate 100th Birthday

Pictured left, Edna Oldenburg celebrated her 100th birthday on February 27 and (picture right) Elfrieda Westover who also resides at the Lodge celebrated her 100th birthday on February 28. Both ladies celebrated their birthday with cake and happy hour on Friday, February 26th at the Lodge. Photos submitted

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The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

New Town Of Vermilion Website

Elaina John Reporter

The Town of Vermilion has developed a new website with developer eSolutionsGroup to better serve residents and further support economic development.

For years, the town has operated their website through wordpress, a free to use service. In 2020, a request for proposals was sent out to rebuild the town’s website. The town agreed to go with eSolutionsGroup to rebuild the website purely using grant fund-

ing through Alberta’s Community and Regional Economic Support (CARES) grant. Chief of Economic Development Mary Lee Prior reports that no taxpayer money was used in the development of the site.

The site has various new modules to better serve residents and is designed to better promote the town’s economic development. The newsfeed and council feed have been updated and include new features, residents can repor t concerns and formally ask for the Mayor

or Council members to speak at an event. There is also “The View”, which features photos of the community, and the website is now mobile friendly. In addition, the Town calendar is now within the website, and residents can submit events to be added to the calendar.

“We encourage all residents to download the Town of Vermilion app,” said Prior, as she explained residents can receive notifications about storms, street closures, water notifications, and more.

“It’s exciting for us,” Prior comments, “We’re going more modern and keeping up with our regional competition.”

It was recently announced that the Town of Vermilion received their second national economic development award for marketing due to the #VermilionOnlineFestival which was hosted in April 2020. “The first national award was in 2019 for our take it to the lake campaign which was in collaboration with multiple municipalities, but this one is just for Vermilion,” Prior said.

COVID-19 And Your Taxes

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County Of Minburn $1.3 Million Road Construction

Jerianne Bardoel Reporter

The County of Minburn No. 27 is partnering with GrainsConnect Canada Corporation and the Province of Alberta to rebuild Range Road 143 from Highway 631 south to the Railroad crossing on Range Road 143.

“With the construction of the Grainsconnect terminal the road Range Road 143 the county saw a significant increase in traffic volumes primarily in heavy truck traffic hauling grain into the terminal. Range Road 143 was constructed prior to 1950 and was not

Jerianne Bardoel

designed to handle the weights of today’s truck loads. The road is also being improved to achieve an all weather road that would allow trucks to haul full loads into the terminal year round rather than being subject to the seasonal road bans due to wet weather,” stated Director of Protective Services, Mike Fundytus.

The County of Minburn applied to the Province of Alberta’s Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Resource Road Program grant funding system. This system is in place to support industrial and economic growth.

The County was granted 50 per cent of the construction to start near the end of May eligible project costs up to a maximum contri- 2021 and are hoping to complete construcbution of $1,124,778 from the province. The tion 40 to 45 days after.

County is contributing $150,000 towards the project with the remainder of funding come from Grainconnect Canada Corporation.

“We put the project out for tender and Ironstone services was awarded the project based on a recommendation from our engineering consultant,” commented Fundytus.

The County of Minburn expects

Dewberry Hall Fundraiser

If you are interested in participatWe are selling each tile for $30, but if you purchase three more tiles the cost then will ing in the fundraiser, please contact The Dewberry Hall Society started a fund- only be $25 each. Each tile purchased in Rick at Dewberry Data Service, raiser last month selling floor tiles to cover the block will be entered in a draw for $500. 780-847-4166. the cost of the Hall’s operating expenses. The more tiles you purchase, the better Due to COVID-19, the Hall is unable to host your chances are to win $500,” stated events such as funerals, weddings, a fall Board president, Rick Rewuski. supper, Christmas craft sale, New Year’s The Hall has an outstanding loan of Evelyn McCrae passed away on February 3, 2021 Eve dance, dinner theatre, and a variety of $169,860. If each tile in a block is sold at in Vermilion at the age of 91 years. other community events that would normally $25, it will generate a total income of $9,025 She will be lovingly remembered by her children bring in the revenue needed. (after the $500 draw amount). If all nine Douglas (Joanne) McCrae and Kathryn McCrae The other factor that plays into the blocks are sold, a net total of $76,725 will Dewberry’s Hall struggle is the reduction in have been earned. All proceeds from the (Gerard Van Der Gaag); grandchildren Andrew oilfield activity, it directly affects the camp- tiles are for debit retirement.

(Lacey) McCrae, Sarah (Jesse) Bydevaate, Matthew ground income.

So far, 42 tiles at $25 each and one tile at McCrae, Julia McCrae (Riley Postman), and David “The main floor area has been divided $30 have been sold. Giving a total of $1,080 McCrae; and great grandchild Lucy McCrae. into nine blocks with 361 tiles in each block. earned so far!

She was predeceased by her husband Kenneth McCrae and siblings Keith Shirreff and Elaine “BEING THE BEST WE CAN BE” King.

VERMILION ELEMENTARY SCHOOL A private family service took place at Faith Lutheran Church, Vermilion on Feb 18. A video of KINDERGARTEN (ECS) the service and slide show can be viewed at https://youtu.be/uz9fktuGfyk VIRTUAL INFORMATION NIGHT Service cards are available at Rural Roots Florist, 4902A - 50 Avenue, Vermilion.

Memorial Donations may be made to Friends of Vermilion Health Centre (Long Monday, March 8, 2021 Term Care), Vermilion Public Library, Alberta Cancer Foundation or charity of choice.

Kathryn, Doug and family would like to express a heartfelt thanks to all the New parents and students, come learn more about our program and school. people who reached out to us and supported us in many ways. A special thanks to We look forward to meeting you and your child.

Reflections Funeral Home for their care and attention to details. Thank you also Send us an email address and we will Your child is eligible to attend to Pastor Quinn Adams, pianist Elaine Leer, pallbearers: Jim West, Bill send you an invite closer to this night. if he/she is 5 years of age Galloway, Andrew McCrae, David McCrae, Jesse Bydevaate, and Riley prior to December 31, 2021.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: Postman. Special thanks to the Vermilion Continuing Care Staff who cared for - Integrated Technology - Child Centered PLEASE PROVIDE A COPY OF YOUR Mom for over 7 years.

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The sun shining brightly; a feathery sky.

The wind in the pines; a coyote’s lonely cry.

The rain on the roof; the crocus in bloom.

The clock ticking softly; the quiet of the room.

A pansy face nodding; a robin’s sweet note.

The creek’s gentle ripple; my new summer coat.

That’s my cup of tea A child’s hearty laughter; the purr of a cat.

Colors in the rainbow; Grandma’s braided mat.

The softness of pussy willows; dampness of dew.

The sparkle like diamonds; sun’s rays on our slough.

The horse’s low whinny; the chickadee’s call.

The partridge in springtime; shoppers in the mall.

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That’s my cup of tea The combine in grain fields; my grandson’s cute smile.

Cookies in the cookie jar; clean kitchen tile.

The books that are read; the people we meet.

My knitting needles clicking; my afghan’s complete.

My family together; the love that we share.

Friends and relations; know that we care.

The prayers that are said; the hymns that are sung.

Life’s goodness and pleasures; thank God for each one.

That’s my cup of tea

area news

4

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

Clandonald School Discusses Possible Closure

Elaina John Reporter

On February 25, community members and the school board held a discussion via Zoom about the possibility of closing Clandonald school.

What was once a full grade 1-12 school, the now 1-6 school underwent a review completed by the superintendent, which recommended an investigation be done to study the viability of the school.

“There were some really exciting and innovative ideas brought to the board,” said Clandonald School Vice Principal

Laurie Hopaluk, “we’re excited to see what the board does with that information.”

The meeting was attended by various community members, of which 11presented ideas to the board. Attendees included groups such as the Clandonald Ag Society, Friends of Clandonald, and the Parent Council. Discussions of grants, French immersion, a farm school, and more took place.

“The community really took a stance that this is a rural Alberta problem, and that we want to keep our kids in our

community,” Hopaluk added.

Another Zoom meeting will take place in which the board will take into consideration all the ideas presented and evaluate other factors. The board will make the decision as to whether or not the school will close at the Zoom meeting on March 17 at 7 p.m.

“We really appreciated people taking their time to put together the presentations and all the community engagement,” said Board Chair, Lanie Parr.

To find out ways to help and support the community, contact Laurie Hopaluk

at 780-581-8289. To submit new ideas to help keep the school running, email the board secretary at faye.dunne@btps.ca.

Photo submitted

Vermilion Voice Donated To VIBE

Publisher of the Vermilion Voice newspaper, Sue Chikie presenting a cheque to Patricia Calyniuk , VIBE manager on February 23. Each year the Vermilion Voice donates to VIBE. Photo Lorna Hamilton

If your baby was born in 2020, don’t miss this opportunity!

Oh Baby

Babies of 2020

Published Tuesday, March 16th, 2021

Parents or grandparents, if your child or grandchild was born in 2020 send us their picture to be showcased in our “Babies of 2020” special.

(Published in full color) Bring the photo into The Voice or send it by mail or e-mail. A close-up or head shot would be preferred. The cost will be $35.00 + GST

Babies of 2020

Cut out and send in along with the baby’s photo.

Please print and include $36.75 (payable to The Voice)

Vermilion Voice 5006-50 Ave. Vermilion, AB T9X 1A2 Ph: 780-853-6305 Fax: 780-853-5426 E-mail: vermilionvoice@gmail.com

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local news

Pink Shirt Day

VES staff wearing pink for Pink Shirt Day. See more photos on page 10. Photo by Jerianne Bardoel

From left, Leis Ahlgren, Connie Minish, Deborah Tovell, Shanna Boomhower, and Jordana Nott from Deborah Tovell Accounting. Photo submitted

5

6

editorial

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

Ag Safety Week - Salute Our Agricultural Community

Lorna Hamilton Editor

For many of us, we often don’t think about where our food comes from, (I know I don’t) most times. We make a trip to our local grocery store, wander up and down each aisle with our grocery cart and leisurely place our required items in the car t and off we go, home to prepare our favourite meal. Easy eh!

WE ARE A PREMIUM COMFORTEX BLIND MANUFACTURER

I h av e s a i d m a n y t i m e s t h a t I cannot think about how that glorious steak, roast, chicken, or pork chop ends up in the grocery store and on my plate as it kind of grosses me out.

I do know and understand the countless hours of dedication a local meat producer must put into his/her farm to produce that wonderful piece of meat and I thank them for it. It is a lifestyle I certainly could not do!!

Over the past month, I spent many hours conversing with beef producers all over Alberta while discussing their upcoming Since 1969 bull sales and I can guarantee one

thing, they seem to never stop for a breath. Each time I have spoken with them they answer the phone panting out of breath because they are either chasing cows, dealing with calving, or doing herd checks. My hat is off to all with much respect! I honestly don’t know how you do it every day.

As for our grain farmers, they too are always doing something, punching long hours and well let’s face it every growing season is a gamble!

Not for me either, I am not a gambler by any means.

Besides the long hours, hard work and dedication it takes to be a producer of our food products, farmers and ranchers work in one of the

most dangerous professions there are in Canada. Being a well-experienced farmer or rancher does not make them immune from workplace ac c i d e nt s, ac c i d e nt s d o an d c an happen at any moment. This week is Ag Safety Week and while we should thank our agricultural communities every time we eat, we should especially recognize what they do, the challenges they face and the danger they put themselves in every day. So take a moment and say thank you, because without them we would all be feeling a lot more hungr y each and every day.

The Vermilion Voice would like to say thank you for all that you do.

Metis Nation Of Alberta Seeks Métis Input In Drafting A Constitution

Elaina John Reporter

E WE’VED MOV

For years, the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) has discussed drafting a constitution to become a self-governing nation within Canada. Now, the MNA is inching closer towards the goal of official recognition as an independent, self-governing nation.

Currently, the MNA is registered under the Societies Act under provincial law, rather than a separate governing body. Despite self governance being a large topic of discussion for years prior, the agreement between the Canadian Government and the MNA of self governance is contingent on the existence of a constitution for the Métis Nation within Alberta. This led to the establishment of the MNA Constitution Commission in 2019, composed of five Métis citizens tasked to draft a constitution and oversee the ratification process.

First, the constitution draft was presented to the internal structures and councils within the

MNA, which had its final round table session on February 22. After presenting a “What We Heard” report, the constitution will be taken to the rest of the MNA citizens. According to MNA President and Chair of the Constitution Commission Audrey Poitras, the MNA hopes that citizens will be able to vote on the constitution at this year’s MNA Assembly in August.

In the past, representation and support of the Métis people were given on the terms of other governing bodies and did not properly suit the needs of Métis people. Community engagement and discussions involving how to best serve, represent, and fight for the Métis people is a crucial step in the drafting process.

“This is something our citizens have talked about year after year,” said President Poitras, “so it’s not anything new, but it is a long process.”

President Poitras hopes to have the Constitution ratified by citizens and officially recognized by the Canadian Government by early 2022.

County of Minburn No. 27 Job Advertisement Summer Employment Protective Services Assistant The County of Minburn No. 27 is seeking one individual for summer position in the Protective Services department located in Vegreville, Alberta. Job duties will include conducting workplace health and safety inspections, promoting health and safety to field personnel, participate in and support daily safety meetings, assist with minor maintenance and inventory of fire department equipment, and provide administrative support including organizing and converting paper-based files to digital form.

General responsibilities include: - High School Diploma - Excellent computer skills, knowledge of Microsoft Office products - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, works well independently - Previous fire department or health and safety experience would be an asset - Valid Class 5 driver’s license This position may require occasional overtime.

A Prairie Farmhouse Cookbook

by Dawn Hames is now available at the Vermilion Voice office for purchase.

Cash only $21.00 The Voice is open Mon - Fri 8 am to 5 pm

Dawn’s Interiors open Monday - Saturday at 11:00 am

VERMILION VOICE

www.vermilionvoice.com

______________________________________________________________ Please submit a complete resume and cover letter, detailing experience,education and qualifications by 4:00 pm on Monday, March 15, 2021 to HR@minburncounty.ab.ca.

Questions regarding this position may also be directed to the above email address. _____________________________________________________________ Employment Term: May 3, 2021 to August 31, 2021 Location: Vegreville, Alberta Salary Range: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour The County of Minburn thanks all applicants for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

5006-50 Ave., Vermilion, AB T9X 1A2 Phone: 780-853-6305 Fax: 780-853-5426 Email: vermilionvoice@gmail.com Your only local independent newspaper.

Proudly serving Vermilion and area since 2004.

The publication of letters to the editor is at the discretion of the editor and the publisher. Letters to the editor should be under 500 words and in good taste.

They should also include your name and phone number for verification purposes. Letters that do not include a name, address and phone number will not be published, although we will respect requests for anonymity.

Letters to the Editor may be edited for clarity. The opinions expressed in letters to the editor are not necessarily shared by the Vermilion Voice.

The Vermilion Voice is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher.

tĞ ĂĐŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞ ƚŚĞ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ of the Goveƌnment of Canada.

Publisher: Susan Chikie Editor: Lorna Hamilton Photographer / Reporter: Lorna Hamilton, Elaina John, Jerianne Bardoel Graphic Design: Amr Rezk Sales: Susan Chikie, Lorna Hamilton, Jerianne Bardoel

March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

Dawn Hames Columnist

We are on the home stretch towards spring.

This last bit of cold winter weather is the perfect time for hot and filling soups, and the cheesy goodness of this soup fits the bill. It is a delicious way to get in a variety of vegetables. Broccoli is a vegetable that is a good source of vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. Broccoli is a nutrient powerhouse, with a 1/2 cup providing your daily need for vitamins C and K as well as significant amounts of Vitamin A and at least 18 other vitamins and minerals. Broccoli has antioxidant abilities, anti-inflammatory properties, and unique cell detoxification

columnist

Broccoli Bacon & Cheese Soup

abilities. Studies have shown broccoli to decrease cholesterol, inhibit the overgrowth of Helicobacter pylori (bad bacterium) in the stomach and aid in cancer prevention. A 1/2 cup serving of broccoli has only 22 calories and provides many health benefits. If you decide to serve cooked broccoli it is best steamed or cooked for less than 5 minutes to retain the maximum number of nutritional benefits.

Wow, there are so many great benefits to consuming broccoli, as well as the other vegetables in this soup. If you are eating dairy free, you can sub out the milk for coconut milk, use bacon fat or margarine for the butter and skip the cheese and add a little more bacon, and it will still be filled with creamy goodness. Using old cheddar gives the soup more cheese flavour than a mild or

medium cheese. You will notice that the water that the vegetables are cooked in is retained as the broth, keeping all the nutrients that went into it.

Broccoli Bacon & Cheese Soup 4 cups chopped broccoli 1/2 cup chopped carrots 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil 1 cup chopped onion 3 cloves of garlic minced 3 tablespoons of butter 3 tablespoons flour 1 cup milk or light cream 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 4 – 6 slices of bacon chopped 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, medium or old.

1 tablespoon of chopped parsley (optional) Chop the broccoli into spoon size

7

pieces, and fill a 4-cup glass measuring cup with the broccoli and cover with water. Pour the contents into a pot, and add the carrots and cook covered until vegetable are cooked. In a second pot, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté the onions and garlic until soft, but not golden. Add the onions and garlic to the cooked broccoli pot. In the pot that the onions were in, add the 3 tablespoons of butter, melt on medium heat, add the flour and stir until thick and slowly add the milk while stirring.

Drain off approximately 1 cup of liquid from the cooked cauliflower pot and add it, stirring to the flour butter mixture.

You will have a thick broth; add the, salt and pepper and stir the contents of the sauce into the vegetable pot and stir in the bacon and cheese, and finally stir in the fresh parsley. Makes four serving.

COVID - How Are We Navigating The Journey

WTG – Shirley Scott Submitted

Supported by FCSS: City of Lloydminster, Towns of Vermilion and Wainwright, Villages of Kitscoty and Marwayne and County of Vermilion River and donations.

We are in the month that marks the one year anniversary of “When our lives have been forever changed.”

Have you noticed in this past year that you have gone from feelings of kindness, and empathy to perhaps being “chippy”, cynical, having attitude, depressed more than less, isolated, confused, feeling deep sadness and anxiety?

Those of you who have experienced the death of a loved one and are mourning that loss may recognize some of those grief responses that are found in your; • Behaviours (restless, increase in addictive behaviour, antisocial such as violence) • Physical Symptoms (Eating and sleep pattern disrupted, headaches and body aches, fatigue and muscle weakness, short of breath and blood pressure change) • Emotional feelings (fear, anger, anxiety, depression, apathy, loneliness, feeling of loss of control) • C o g n i t i ve t h i n k i n g (c o n f u s i o n , decrease in focus and making decisions, apathy, disorganized) • Spiritual (Question meaning and purpose of life, loss of trust, feeling hopeless, and powerless) Remember that Change-creates a Loss-creates a Grief Response Could we be experiencing a “COVID” Grief?

Recognize, acknowledge and embrace your new grief. Give it a name; anger, fear, deep sadness, isolation, depression, loneliness, anxiety, fear, confusion and helplessness. Don’t be too hard on yourself. You may not have recognized you were grieving, yet a new loss. Now that you have identified a new and great loss of normalcy (life as it used to be), what can you do?

In the light of the “normal” returning we have to look at what the “new normal” might look like and what we can do to navigate this journey.

We can look at connection that we are all missing. How can we connect from a distance?

Some ideas have come from a blog from Crisis and Trauma Resource Institute .Blog@ctrinstitute.com. It seems like isolation and loneliness is not leaving so we need to find ways to connect.

Use the electronics if you are comfortable with them. Using a text message, an email, Zoom or Facebook and face time. If electronics is not your or the other person’s comfort zone how about a phone call. Nothing is quite as good as hearing a voice. How about finding someone you haven’t called in a while

and surprise them with a phone call.

Catch up on what is happening. Another great way to make someone’s day is to send a card and a positive note as hand writing is special to receive. Value those in your life and let them know, this will generate a dialog and you will also receive responses. Start a Gratitude jar and put a gratitude in every morning and evening.

Don’t forget Self Care. How about taking a walk and breathe in that air and listen for the sounds around you. Look at the birds, snow, sun and feel a part of the freedom. Limit your amount of computer time. Don’t schedule multiple Zoom meetings and get up and move around often when you have to be on Zoom meetings and computer work.

We wonder what the future will look like and try to think what the Big Picture will look like. What will our “New Normal” be like? Try to look at one day at a time or even half a day. Learn all you can on how to navigate this new grief journey and remember Knowledge Is Power.

If you feel COVID has locked you down, isolated you, taken your normalcy away there are some things COVID can’t cancel.

An article sent to me author unknown says the following: NOT EVERYTHING IS CANCELLED Sunshine isn’t cancelled, Spring isn’t cancelled, Love isn’t cancelled, Relationships aren’t cancelled, Reading isn’t cancelled, Naps aren’t cancelled, Devotion isn’t cancelled, Music isn’t cancelled, Dancing isn’t cancelled, Kindness isn’t cancelled, Imagination isn’t cancelled , Conversation isn’t cancelled, HOPE isn’t cancelled,

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS Estate of Edwin William (Bill) Hart who died on January 16, 2021 If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by April 8, 2021 and provide details of your claim with

WHEAT KENYON LLP Barristers and Solicitors

at

5042 - 49 Avenue Vermilion, Alberta T9X 1B7

If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.

FRIENDS aren’t cancelled.

Keep looking up!

Fear does not stop death it stops life and worrying does not take away tomorrows troubles, it takes away today’s peace.

Just think about it...how privileged we are that during a global pandemic, we can stay home comfortably reading,

working, watching T.V. and with a fridge stocked with food - Do remind yourself to be grateful today, might not be tonight, tomorrow or the next day ....but everything is going to be O.K. To make a difference in someone’s life you don’t have to be brilliant, rich beautiful or perfect .....

YOU JUST HAVE TO CARE.

County of Minburn No. 27 Job Advertisement - Summer Employment Administrative Support The County of Minburn No. 27 is seeking two individuals for administrative summer student positions located in Vegreville, Alberta. The Administration Office position is responsible for providing receptionist duties, answering telephones, receipting revenue and daily cash reconciliation, maintaining office filing systems and preparing spreadsheets. This Public Works position is responsible for answering telephones, preparing spreadsheets and work orders as well as completing mail duties.

Qualifications: - High School Diploma - Currently enrolled in Post-Secondary Business or Administrative Program - Excellent computer and written skills - Excellent communication, interpersonal skills and strong customer service skills - Valid Class 5 driver’s license This position may require occasional overtime. ______________________________________________________________

Public Works Shop Maintenance Assistant

The County of Minburn No. 27 is seeking one individual for a summer student position at the Public Works Shop located in Vegreville, Alberta. The Public Works Shop Maintenance Assistant position is responsible for assisting the Shop Foreman, Journeyman Heavy Duty Mechanic and Welder in the regular maintenance of equipment and vehicles. The successful candidate will also be responsible for picking up parts, cleaning the public works shops, detailing vehicles, and assisting Construction and Oiling Crews as directed.

Qualifications: - High School Diploma - Currently enrolled in a Post-Secondary Education Program - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills - Valid Class 5 driver’s license This position may require occasional overtime. ______________________________________________________________ Please submit a complete resume and cover letter, detailing experience,education and qualifications by 4:00 pm on Monday, March 15, 2021 to HR@minburncounty.ab.ca.

Questions regarding this position may also be directed to the above email address. _____________________________________________________________ Employment Term: May 3, 2021 to August 31, 2021 Location: Vegreville, Alberta Salary Range: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour The County of Minburn thanks all applicants for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

8

columnist

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

Transportation And Opportunities In Early Vermilion

Craig Baird Columnist

When Vermilion was still just a small community on the prairie, there was a desire to bring more people in and that led to the creation of a booklet that highlighted the many things within the community. One impor-

tant aspect of that booklet was touting the transportation within the community and its links to the outside world.

Through this piece, I will mention various segments of how transportation was described in early Vermilion to gain new residents from around the country and Europe.

The booklet describes Vermilion as being on the main transcontinental line of

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Village of Mannville Mannville Riverview Golf Course Clubhouse Seasonal Employment Opportunity for the Term: April 15 – October 31, 2021 (approx.)

Position: Food & Beverage Supervisor The Mannville Riverview Golf Course is looking for an individual to fill the position of Food & Beverage Supervisor for the Clubhouse operations. Position reports directly to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).

the Canadian Northern Railway and a divisional point that results in all trains, passenger and freight, stopping in the community.

The booklet also describes the fact that the grading and track laying of the branch line from Bruderheim and Vermilion was in the process, moving into the north of the present line. It states, quote: “The surveyors are from Vermilion working on the branch line of the Canadian Northern Railway from Vermilion to Medicine Hat, traversing a new and unopened section of the Province. The bonds for both of these lines has been guaranteed by the provincial government.”

It was stated in the booklet that Vermilion would be the terminus for the chartered lines from Vermilion to Wetaskiwin and Cold Lake, while also on the survey of the proposed line from Wilkie to Athabasca Landing.

Moving into describing the opportunities within Vermilion, they are described as, quote: “More real farmers who are willing to

take a small piece of land and by intensive farming get the fullest possible returns from it.”

“Up-to-date merchants of all kinds to cater to the well-to-do farmers who are here now and those who are coming in daily.”

Industries such as sash and door factory, makers of farm wagons, steam laundry, cheese factory, oatmeal mill and cereal factory, tannery, mineral water works, parking plant.”

Looking at the bright future of Vermilion ahead, the booklet ends its section on the opportunities by saying, quote: “To them Vermilion holds out the hand of welcome.”

I put out a history magazine that highlights many aspects of Canadian history. It is free and is delivered to your inbox. E-mail me to subscribe at craig@canadaehx.com Support the column and my history show at www.patreon.com/canadaehx Listen to my podcast Canadian History Ehx on all podcast platforms or at www. canadaehx.ca

ONLINE LAND AUCTION For Dwayne & Valerie Hendel

Closing Thursday, April 1, 2021 at 3:00 pm 1/4 Section NW 36-53-7-W4 Approx. 110+ Acres Cultivated Approx. 30 +/- Acres Pasture with well Directions: From Vermilion, North on Hwy 41 to Twp Rd 540, West 2 Miles.

From Derwent, East on Hwy 45 to RR 71, South 2 miles.

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780-853-4725

Duties include, but are not limited to: • Responsible for all aspects of food & beverages (alcohol & non-alcohol) ie: ordering & receiving, inventory & internal control, menu planning, meal specials, quality, coordination, preparation, presentation and golf course beverage cart during tournaments and events • Responsible to maintain all regulations as set out by the Provincial Health Inspector • Responsible to maintain all regulations as set out by the Alberta Gaming & Liquor Commission • Responsible for setting schedule for kitchen staff to ensure proper staffing levels • Responsible for controlling, authorizing and submitting to Village Office Accounts Payable invoices • Responsible for cash management (daily cash outs, reconciliations and bank deposits etc.)

• Coordinate and communicate with Pro Shop Supervisor to ensure successful operations • Ability to work well under pressure, work well with other staff and set a good example • Perform other duties as requested by the CAO Qualifications: • High school diploma or equivalent • Food Safety and Pro Serve Certifications will be required to be obtained • Previous experience in food and beverage industry is a requirement • Previous supervisory experience in food and beverage preparation and service is an asset • Flexible hours of work are required for this position • A Criminal Records Check may be requested • Reliable vehicle and valid Class 5 Alberta Driver Licence • A combination of education and experience will be considered Salary commensurate for the position.

Job description available upon request Application deadline: March 17, 2021 at 12:00 pm (Noon) Position will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.

Please send cover letter and resume to the following: Village of Mannville Jody Quickstad, Chief Administrative Officer Box 180 Mannville, Alberta T0B 2W0 Email: cao@mannville.com 780-763-3500 The Village of Mannville thanks all applicants for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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area news

March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

Jerianne Bardoel

Thorpe Recovery Centre Campaign

Reporter

Thorpe Recovery Centre (TRC) has operated since 1975, starting as a twobed facility that offers medically supported detox, a 42-day residential addiction treatment program, post-treatment continuing care, and support programs for individuals who are affected by addictive behaviours. Today TRC has a 54,000 square foot facility that includes 72 treatment beds on a 34 acre lot near Lloydminster, Alberta.

The facility has a gymnasium, fitness rooms, meeting rooms and lecture areas that are host to programs such as Detox, Treatment, Continuing Care, and Intensive Groups.

TRC started a social media campaign on February 1 to shine a light on operating costs for non-profit organizations. Although TRC receives funding from Alberta Health Services for the majority of their beds

and some beds are funded through the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the funding is limited income, leaving non-profit organizations to come up with funding for other expenses, such as mortgage, building maintenance, repairs, and improvements.

COVID-19 has also had a major impact on the centre as it has increased from 25 to over 50 clients, and many on a wait list.

“When working in a Community Therapeutic Model, it is difficult to reimagine programming when we’ve all been integrated as a unit. Group sizes are reduced, limiting the peer support. Masks are donned, making it difficult to convey and understand a story. Connection is waning across the facility. We relied on the communion of peer groups and support. We relied on our large gatherings of the Thorpe community to celebrate achievements.

We had to stop recreational and support

group outings, encouraging high-fives, the comfort of hugs, the intimacy of family visits.

We had an identity crisis; what is a community model without the community?” stated Sara Fox, Development Coordinator for the centre. One of the first adjustments in order to maintain connection was webcams for the clients to join online 12-step and SMART Recovery support group meetings. The centre also had to increase staffing in order to host smaller groups to follow the COVID-19 restrictions, connecting clients with resources in their home communities, offering the Family Intensive Program online, converting the gymnasium into a meeting and therapeutic place, and embracing technology as best as possible to connect across the facility and into the recovery community. The impact of isolation caused by COVID-19 has shed a light on mental health and how important it is.

“We have a large, 9-year-old facility, it’s

9

nearly full, and it needs to be maintained.

Our facility is a crucial part of the services we provide. Clients live, sleep, and breathe in this space and we want to ensure our community understands the work associated to maintain it. With the advent of the pandemic, we needed to modify spaces from their original purpose, like adding sound panels to the gymnasium. We do need new fitness equipment, we do need new industrial vacuums, we do need a few new washing machines, and with increased enrollment in our programs this need has become more important than ever,” said Sarah Fox, Development Coordinator for the centre..

It is important to TRC that the community understands that recovery costs more than the wages of its experienced and educated team. For those who wish to donate to TRC you can do so on thorperecoverycentre. org/donate or call Sara at 780-875-8890.

Kitscoty RCMP Seeking Public Assistance With Dashcam Footage Or Witnesses To Home Invasion

RCMP

Submitted

Kitscoty, Alta. – On Feb. 19, 2021, at 6:35 a.m., Kitscoty RCMP received a 911 call of a home invasion in progress at a residence in the area of 52 avenue and 50 street in Kitscoty.

Kitscoty RCMP attended the residence and unknown suspect(s) had rammed a vehicle into the front of the residence and had fled. Further investigation determined that a firearm had been discharged during this incident.

The occupants of the residence were not physically injured as a result of this incident.

Kitscoty RCMP, along with RCMP Forensic Identification Services, have

examined the residence as part of this investigation.

It is believed that a silver vehicle, possibly a newer jeep, is a vehicle of interest in this investigation and may have sustained minor damage.

Anyone with information regarding this incident, or dash cam footage in the Village of Kitscoty between 6:30 a.m. and 7:10 a.m. on Feb. 19, 2021, is asked to contact the Kitscoty RCMP at 780-846-2897 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips. com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Surveillance images of Vehicle of interest - Kitscoty RCMP home invasion. Photo submitted Play Store.”

Kindergarten Registration PLEASE REGISTER ONLINE OR CALL THE SCHOOL AT 780-853-5251 FOR MORE INFORMATION https://www.ecacs.ca/parents_students/registration and watch our informa�on video

County of Minburn No. 27 Job Advertisement Summer Employment Agricultural Service Board Assistant The County of Minburn No. 27 is seeking two individuals for summer student positions in the Agricultural Service Board department located in Vegreville, Alberta. Job duties will include weed control activities on public and private land, field and crop surveys for agricultural pests, herbicide application, industrial mowing, and other Agricultural Service Board related duties.

Qualifications: - High School Diploma - Excellent personal skills - Keen interest in modern agricultural and environmental practices - General knowledge of equipment, including repair and maintenance would be an asset - Post-secondary students are encouraged to apply - Valid Class 5 driver’s license This position may require occasional overtime. ______________________________________________________________ Please submit a complete resume and cover letter, detailing experience,education and qualifications by 4:00 pm on Monday, March 15, 2021 to HR@minburncounty.ab.ca.

Questions regarding this position may also be directed to the above email address. _____________________________________________________________ Employment Term: May 3, 2021 to August 31, 2021 Location: Vegreville, Alberta Salary Range: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour

Your Child must be 5 before December 31, 2021

The County of Minburn thanks all applicants for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

10

local news

Pink Shirt Day

Kim Clarke (left) and Kim Greupner (right) from the Co-op Pharmacy. Photo submitted

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

Mike Gaudet (left) and Linda Elsenheimer (right) from Cornerstone Co-op. Photos submitted

J.R. Robson School. Photo submitted

The staff from Kinect Physiotherapy & Wellness supporting Pink day. Back row: Kasondra Lewin, Faye Baldwin, Kaylyn Gordon. Front row: Jesse Axley, Jessie Wasylik. Photo submitted

From left, at Vermilion Eye Center, Carrie, Dr. Moneo, Jorianne and Skye sporting pink for Pink Shirt Day on February 24. Photo submitted

Michelle Feist, Candice Anderson and Bethany Jacula from Reflections Funeral Home supporting Pink Day. Photo submitted

From left, at Shoppers Drug Mart, Kendra, Brenda, Heidi, Janice, Vish and Erin. Photo submitted

Vermilion Valley Lodge resistants support Pink Day. Photo submitted

St. Jerome’s staff, from left and from the top, Carolyn Martin, LIndsey Martin, Carla Protsch, Rolanda Beaudette, Penny Ryan, Bryn Lewin, Nicole Frankiw, Sean Whelan, Elaine Crate, Jodie Molsberry, Lorrane Ganton, Dorothy Decker, Ernie Decker, Caroline Dieken, Lindsey Williams, Sheryl Davies, Allan Chase, Carol Krys, Louise Lysons, Claire Penner David Sader, Kari Thompson, Caine Collins, Sonja Wilkinson, Shalene Zayac, Jocelyn Fillier, Jill Schmidt and Anna Svenungard on Pink Day. Photo Submitted

March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

11

March14-20, 2021

Despite Hardships, Ag Industry Has Opportunity To Become Stronger Post-Pandemic

Erin Kelly, Canadian Agricultural Safety but that’s not an option if there are 100 Association acres of apples to pick.”

Submitted In Manitoba, Thea Green, Program

We can all agree that 2020 was a year like none other.

It was a year that tested everyone’s readiness to adapt to change quickly.

And the agricultural industry was no exception.

From labour logistics and personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages to processing delays and pivoting to online marketing, many farmers across the country encountered a long and ever-changing list of challenges due to COVID-19.

“Farmers faced a lot of new challenges in their ability to function within the restrictions [associated with COVID19], as did everybody,” says Wendy Bennett, Executive Director of AgSafe in British Columbia. “But if you have a farm, the opportunity for everybody to work from home doesn’t work. Here I am working at my dining room table,

Manager for Keystone Agricultural Producers, says that for many farmers the pandemic did not impact their ability to farm, but “it did impact how they farm.”

There is no denying the hardships and challenges that have been experienced across the Canadian agricultural industry. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has also provided the sector with a unique learning opportunity and the chance to explore new processes.

“We all adapted because we were forced to; it’s never fun to have to do something because you’re backed into a corner. But there has also been some benefit to being forced to explore change, to make it a priority,” explains Carolyn Van Den Heuvel, Director of Outreach and Member Relations with Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture.

Continued on page 12

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The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

March14-20, 2021

Continued from page 11 “We all hit some bumps and hurdles along the way while figuring it all out, and if we look at how our food value chain adapted, it’s really impressive and worth recognizing.”

Health and safety procedures top the list of what has been impacted by COVID19 on farms across Canada. While

another layer has been added to what employers have to do to ensure everybody’s well-being on the farm during the pandemic, those requirements may have a positive and lasting effect on farm health and safety procedures.

“COVID opened a lot of eyes to worker health and safety requirements across the board.

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And those requirements have largely always been there, but some people didn’t think they applied to them. I think, moving forward, the experience of dealing with COVID is going to make people pay more attention,” explains Bennett, adding that her organization has seen a noticeable increase in requests for help with implementing health and safety

measures.

“The importance of preparedness has really become evident during COVID19,” Green notes. “We never know what is going to come our way in the industry, but farmers can use the experiences of COVID-19 to do emergency preparedness for a whole range of situations that would allow them to respond more effectively.”

Van Den Heuvel agrees, explaining that the pandemic underscored the importance of implementing a farm safety plan and conducting a risk assessment.

“We are going to look at health and safety differently going forward. COVID has been, for lack of a better term, a good exercise for implementing a farm safety plan,” she says.

“Health and safety are part of an overall farm management plan, and having a solid management plan, understanding processes for making decisions, and communicating with family members and workers were shown to be fundamental during COVID.” In fact, communication became an essential component across the agricultural industry in response to COVID-19, with collaboration proving particularly beneficial for commodity groups, which used shared experiences to find solutions and address challenges. “ The impor tance of having open communication really came to the forefront with COVID. The only way that all of us were able to adapt to COVID successfully was by working together,” explains Van Den Heuvel. “COVID showed us what true collaboration brings us; it showed us when we work together, how much further we can get.”

Continued on page 13

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March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

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March14-20, 2021

Continued from page 12 But the benefits of increased communication haven’t been limited to within the industry. With more people cooking at home during the pandemic, COVID19 has provided the agricultural industry

with a valuable opportunity to connect with consumers about their food and what’s being done to ensure food security in Canada.

“There has been heightened interest in Canadian food during the pandemic,

and Canadian consumers are increasingly interested in where their food is coming from,” says Green.

Adds Van Den Heuvel, “ There is definitely a recognition for agriculture amongst the public like we haven’t necessarily seen in the past, and that means more opportunities to connect with the public about their food.”

W h at t h i n g s w ill l o o k like p o s tpandemic is still anyone’s guess. But one thing is for certain: Canadian farmers’ abilities to adapt and continue to produce safe and healthy products are proof that the pandemic won’t hurt the agricultural industry. It will make it stronger.

“Everyone in agriculture recognizes that ever yone else in agriculture is going through similar challenges,” says Bennett. “And that collaboration will only make the industry stronger for everyone because COVID showed us that you never know what’s next.”

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW) is a public campaign held annually during the third week of March that focuses on the importance of safe agriculture. The 2021 campaign, Safe & Strong Farms: Lead an AgSafe Canada, takes place March 14-20.

CASW is presented by Farm Credit Canada. For more information, visit agsafetyweek.ca.

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14

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

March14-20, 2021

Investing In Agriculture

Alberta’s Minister of Agriculture and Financial Services Corporation (AFSC).

Forestry The AFSC overall borrowing limit will Submitted increase from $2.8 billion to $3.6 billion by $800 million increase in agriculture lend- 2024 to make sure that Alberta farmers, ing for farmers, ranchers and value-added ranchers and food production have relifood production in Alberta from Agriculture able access to capital.

AFSC’s improved lending ability will help us meet our value-added investment attraction goal of $1.4 billion for agriculture and food production in Alberta over the next 4 years – with a target of 2,000 new agriculture jobs. Since we set those

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targets last fall, we’ve already achieved $527 million in new investment and created more than 981 new jobs in Alberta.

To create new agriculture business opportunities we’re also doubling the individual lending limit from $15 million to $30 million from AFSC. This increased limit will help to better support larger agriculture deals in the province.

AFSC offers lending support for food production through the Agribusiness Loan Program as well as loans for primary agriculture producers: the Next Generation Loan Program, Developing Producer Loan Program, Alberta Producer Loan Program, and the Revolving Loan Program.

The borrowing limit is a funding cap set by government for the entire AFSC lending program, and we’re raising this limit to attract investments to further economic diversification and support growth in agriculture and food production.

We’re also reducing red-tape by making it quicker and easier for clients to access loans from AFSC. Their quick loan process approves loans up to $150,000 in less than a day, and they’ve reduced average loan approval turnaround time by a day, meaning most loans are approved in under a week. AFSC has also improved loan renewals, with automatic renewal for loans in good standing and a new, clientfriendly process for loan payment deferral when needed. Simple modernizations like accepting electronic client signatures add convenience to the process as well.

We asked AFSC to work on continuous improvement, and they’re assisting with the government’s focus on economic development and job creation.

Saluting.. Our Local Farmers Saluting Our Agricultural Community

We extend our thanks to you and your families for helping keep our community and our country strong!

www.vermilion.ca Wishing Our Local Farmers And Ranchers

A SAFE, HEALTHY AND PROSPEROUS 2021

Suite 14, 5125-50th Ave. Vermilion, AB. T9X 1L9

780-853-2801

March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

15

March14-20, 2021

Jerianne Bardoel

Agriculture And Forestry 2021 Budget

Reporter

Agriculture and Forestry 2021 budget has brought on new programs and services, and the industry is focused on delivering a new vision for Agriculture and Forestry.

“This past year has been a tough one due to COVID19. While we are still dealing with the impacts of the pandemic, I am proud of how resilient the hard-working men and women in Alberta’s agriculture and forest sectors have been by adapting to not only survive but thrive.

The agriculture and forestry sectors have been bright spots in Alberta’s economy throughout the pandemic.

Whether it is foresters, farmers, or food processors, we are looking for them to help lead economic growth in Alberta,” commented Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry.

Dreeshen stated that Agriculture and Forestry is taking their 2021 budget as an opportunity to be smarter about how they spend taxpayer’s money. $841 million is being directed toward the new vision to ensure that Alberta Agriculture industries can grow and continue to be key economic drivers and job creators.

“In a big win for farmers, we have reduced AgriInsurance premiums by 20% this year, roughly $55 million in savings, to help ease the financial burden on producers.

Starting in early spring, irrigation projects will be under construction as a result of the $815 million investment in irrigation – the largest one-time irrigation investment in Alberta’s history. There will be hundreds of kilometers of new pipelines, expanded reservoirs, and 2 new reservoirs that will modernize irrigation district infrastructure.

These projects will increase water storage capacity, irrigating more than 200,000 new acres and creating up to 8,000 jobs,” commented Dreeshen.

Agriculture and Forestry set a target to attract $1.4 billion in investments over the next four years which would create over 2,000 jobs in sectors like hemp, ag-technology, and food production of grain, oilseed, plant protein and livestock. Since announcing these targets last fall, Agriculture and Forestry has already

achieved $527 million in new investment and created associated regulations will come into force this spring. more than 981 new jobs. Dreeshen also announced that These amendments will advance Alberta’s competitive Agriculture and Forestry is going to double individual forest sector by reducing red tape and securing reliable lending limits for farms and agriculture businesses from and consistent access to trees, through the Forest Jobs $15 million to $30 million, as well as increasing over- Action Plan, while growing our forests’ sustainability for all Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) current and future generations.” borrowing limit from $2.8 billion to $3.6 billion to ensure primary producers, agribusinesses, and value-added food processors have reliable access to capital.

“Raising Alberta’s profile as an attractive investment destination in global markets will increase provincial exports. We have doubled our international presence in key export markets, set aggressive growth targets of 8.5% per year for valueadded exports and 7.5% for primary exports,” stated Dreeshen.

Despite a climate of economic restraint, Agriculture and Forestry is holding the line on several key programs and services including: Maintaining agricultural research funding at $37 million.

Continuing to fund access to utilities in rural Alberta at $4.3 million.

Providing $11.5 million in funding to Alberta agricultural societies, while speeding up applicaFinancing you can count on to be there when you need it. That’s why we created ScotiaFlex tions.

Financing you can count on to be there when you need it. That’s why we created ScotiaFlex âëî Ýãîåßñèðñîá Ý ČèáôåÞèá ČåêÝêßåêã ïëèñðåëê ðäÝð áêÝÞèáï õëñ ðë îáïìëêà ðë ßäÝêãáï íñåßçèõ Funding the fight against mountain pine beetle Ýêà áâČåßåáêðèõ âëî Ýãîåßñèðñîá Ý ČèáôåÞèá ČåêÝêßåêã ïëèñðåëê ðäÝð áêÝÞèáï õëñ ðë îáïìëêà ðë ßäÝêãáï íñåßçèõ Financing you can count on to be there when you need it. That’s why we created ScotiaFlex Ýêà áâČåßåáêðèõ at $30 million annually, plus an additional $19 âëî Ýãîåßñèðñîá Ý ČèáôåÞèá ČåêÝêßåêã ïëèñðåëê ðäÝð áêÝÞèáï õëñ ðë îáïìëêà ðë ßäÝêãáï íñåßçèõ ÕÝòá ðåéá Þõ Ýììèõåêã ëêßá ðë áïðÝÞèåïä õëñî ëòáîÝèè ßîáàåð èåéåð Ñêßá õëñ«îá Ýììîëòáà Ýêà áâČåßåáêðèõ Ýßßáïï õëñî ÝòÝåèÝÞèá âñêàï ðäîëñãä Ý óåàá òÝîåáðõ ëâ ßîáàåð ëìðåëêï ßñïðëéåöáà ðë õëñî êááàï ÕÝòá ðåéá Þõ Ýììèõåêã ëêßá ðë áïðÝÞèåïä õëñî ëòáîÝèè ßîáàåð èåéåð Ñêßá õëñ«îá Ýììîëòáà million from the federal government. Ýßßáïï õëñî ÝòÝåèÝÞèá âñêàï ðäîëñãä Ý óåàá òÝîåáðõ ëâ ßîáàåð ëìðåëêï ßñïðëéåöáà ðë õëñî êááàï ÕÝòá ðåéá Þõ Ýììèõåêã ëêßá ðë áïðÝÞèåïä õëñî ëòáîÝèè ßîáàåð èåéåð Ñêßá õëñ«îá Ýììîëòáà Dreeshen went on to say, “Budget 2021 also Èëî éëîá åêâëîéÝðåëê ìèáÝïá ßëêðÝßð õëñî èëßÝè ÃãîåßñèðñîÝè ÕìáßåÝèåïð Ýßßáïï õëñî ÝòÝåèÝÞèá âñêàï ðäîëñãä Ý óåàá òÝîåáðõ ëâ ßîáàåð ëìðåëêï ßñïðëéåöáà ðë õëñî êááàï or visit www.scotiabank.com/agriculturalservices ensures we are prepared to respond to the upcom- Èëî éëîá åêâëîéÝðåëê ìèáÝïá ßëêðÝßð õëñî èëßÝè ÃãîåßñèðñîÝè ÕìáßåÝèåïð or visit www.scotiabank.com/agriculturalservices Èëî éëîá åêâëîéÝðåëê ìèáÝïá ßëêðÝßð õëñî èëßÝè ÃãîåßñèðñîÝè ÕìáßåÝèåïð ing wildfire season, using innovative solutions and or visit www.scotiabank.com/agriculturalservices Alberta new technology to make sure our monitoring, fore- Vermilion, 5037 50th Avenue Vermilion, Vermilion,AB Alberta casting, detection and responses are efficient and Vermilion, 780 853-9162 ext 4300 5037 50thAlberta Avenue myrna.biermann@scotiabank.com Vermilion, AB 50th Avenue effective. We consulted with communities affected 5037 Vermilion, AB ext 4300 780 853-9162 853-9162 ext 4300 myrna.biermann@scotiabank.com by wildfire on how to improve our response. This 780 myrna.biermann@scotiabank.com budget introduces new technology to help Alberta Wildfire remain world-class and keep communities safe. Changes made to the Forests Act and

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SAVE 20% ON Metric and Grade 8 Bolts

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72 Hole

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Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Fertilizer • Feeds and strengthens lawn for deep root systems • Helps to prevent damage caused by weeds, pests and drought • Phosphate-free formula • Made with 32% total nitrogen for a thick, green lawn

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We would also like to inform the farmers of Vermilion and area that we offer

GATES AND CATERPILLAR HYDRAULIC HOSE We also carry an extensive selection of STANDARD, BSP & METRIC

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16

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

March14-20, 2021

Ag for Life Submitted

March Is Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month

Agriculture for Life (Ag for Life) is excited to be part of the 10th annual Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM) – an initiative by Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C) that encourages students to celebrate Canada’s agriculture and food story.

Each year, CALM helps thousands of Canadian students from K to 12 to learn about, connect to, understand and grow appreciation for agriculture.

CALM is a hands-on program designed to be integrated into classrooms in the

month of March. Educating students about the significant affect the agriculture and food sector has on our daily lives as Canadians is what makes CALM so impactful.

Like most events for 2021, CALM activities and events across Canada are going virtual. Each province will of fer s p e c i al eve nt s an d feature d resources to connect students, teachers and families with Our Food, Our Story. Ag for Life will deliver interactive agriculture learning oppor tunities for elementary, junior and senior high students in Alberta in two ways.

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Elementary students will have access to v ir tu a l r e ad - o u t- l o u d s t h at w i l l feature children’s literature celebrating our food and Canadian agriculture. The online read-out-louds can be viewed in class, assigned via an online platform, or watched together in a virtual classroom. For the junior and senior high students, a four-part webinar series will highlight our main agri c ulture commodities and address production practices, science literacy, sustainability and opportunity from farm to fork.

Teachers who register will receive a digital teacher guide and accompany-

ing resources, as well as a complimentary teacher package including a class set of “The Real Dirt on Farming” publication.

“With this program, we are bringing agriculture to life in the classroom and empowering young minds to become leaders in agriculture, sustainability, food production and nutrition,” says LureeWilliamson, CEO, Ag for Life.

“Af ter all, the future of agriculture depends on the nex t generation to create solutions for feeding a growing population while protecting our planet.”

Continued on page 17

Saluting our Agricultural Communities During Ag Safety Week

We are a Dealer for Union Forage. Ask about our forage blends, cover :H DUH H[FLWHG WR DQQRXQFH WKDW ZH DUH QRZ D GHDOHU IRU cropping options and seed coatings. We have annual and perennial 8QLRQ )RUDJH $VN DERXW RXU IRUDJH EOHQGV FRYHU forage options available.

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9LVLW 8QLRQIRUDJH FRP IRU SURGXFW GHVFULSWLRQV Visit Unionforage.com for product descriptions

Garth Rowswell MLA &RQVXOWLQJ DQG 3URGXFWV WR ,PSURYH 5DQFK 3URILWDELOLW\

Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright

We are moving the outdoors indoors for the…

3rd ANNUAL INDOOR EQUIPMENT SHOWCASE! Alberta Building on the Lloydminster Exhibition Grounds 5521 49 Ave February 23 – March 16, 2021 M– F 9am-5pm | Sat 10am – 3pm & Wednesdays open until 7:30pm during Lloyd Ex Chase the Ace draw!

….all in the warmth & comfort of the indoors you’ll find:  A selection of our full line of Kubota products from tractors & balers to lawn mowers & RTV’s  The new JCB telehandler series & just released CLAAS XERION tractor with 4 crawler tracks  Plus the Agrifac high clearance sprayer  Along with a mix of quality preowned machinery!

Be sure to enter the newspaper draw using the code word “Tractor Life”

   

Promotions during the Indoor Showcase: rd March 3 test drive a Kubota M7 tractor & get an Exhibition Grill Lunch Pass!

March 9th visit with the Agrifac Product Specialist to learn about this industry leading machine March 11th Kubota Product Specialists will be on-hand for Kubota questions Stop in, see the show specials & don’t leave without entering the Door Prize draw for a Pit Boss Smoker!!

We look forward to seeing you!

Covid-19 protocols will be in place.

March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

17

March14-20, 2021

Continued from page 16 “AITC-C is thrilled to host Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month in 2021 and celebrate ten years of sharing the Canadian agriculture and food story with students from coast to coast!” said Johanne Ross, AITC-C Executive Director. “We can reach even more classrooms this year by bringing the program totally online and making meaningful connections between tens of thousands of students and those of us that work in the agri-food sector.”

More information about this program can be found at www.agricultureforlife.ca/calm Ag for Life aims to foster through education, an understanding and appreciation of agriculture and its fundamental connection

to life.

About Ag for Life Ag for Life (Agriculture for Life) has the mandate to deliver educational programming designed to improve rural and farm safety while building public understanding around the agricultural industry.

Ag for Life is made possible through the funding and commitment of companies that employ almost 20,000 people in more than 350 Alberta communities. Founding Members include AdFarm, Glacier FarmMedia, Nutrien, Rocky Mountain Equipment, TC Energy and UFA Co-operative Limited. To learn more visit agricultureforlife.ca.

About Agriculture in the Classroom

Canada Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C) is a Canadian charitable organization with a vision to bring agriculture to every classroom, inspiring every student.

Alongside ten provincial member organizations, AITC-C provides accurate, balanced and current, curriculum linked resources for students at all grade levels.

We are proud to work with our network of partners, stakeholders and volunteers to provide educational experiences that will foster a passion for lifelong learning through collaboration, creativity, critical thinking and communication by sharing Canada’s remarkable agriculture and food story. To learn more visit aitc-canada.ca.

Photo submitted

We celebrate the farmers, ranchers, and producers Who work �relessly to put food on our tables.

We Proudly Support Our Farmers & Ranchers

MARTIN PLUMBING & HEATING LTD. 4916-50 AVE., VERMILION, AB 780-853-5853

Thank You For Everything You Do!

4825-47 Ave., Vermilion Fax: 853-4623 Phone: 853-4622

Heavy Truck and Equipment Repair HD Parts Sales  Wash Bay Facility  Licensed CVIP Facility We Are Now Your Local

Apache Service Center For The Area And Will Be Offering Service, Parts And Sales For All Of Your Apache Sprayer Needs!

2210 - 19th Avenue, Wainwright

780-842-0080

area news

18

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

Constituency Of Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright To Receive Community Funding Grant

Leah Murray Submitted

Alber ta’s government has always prioritized treating those suffering from addiction and mental health concerns with care and compassion. We understand that partnering with local treatment providers is often the best way to deliver the support these Albertans need.

As part of the Alberta government’s plan to suppor t evidence -based

programs, organizations have applied for grants to support their work aiding the mental health and addiction recovery of Albertans.

In Vermilion - Lloydminster-Wain wright, Residents in Recover y has b e e n a p p r ove d i n Ph a s e 3 of t h e Community Grant Funding Program for a grant in the amount of $40,900.00. “ Residents in Recover y of fers a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for individuals on a journey

to recover y. Organizations like this are integral to providing help for those suffering from addiction. This grant from Alber ta’s government of over $40,0 0 0 combined with our recent Phase 1 and 2 grants of $55,000 will help them continue that work,” said Garth Rowswell, MLA for VermilionLloydminster-Wainwright.

This program is a key par t of our strategy to support the mental wellness and addiction recovery of Alber-

tans during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alberta’s government will continue s u p p o r t i n g ev i d e n c e - b a s e d f u n d ing programs, and ensuring that resources are there for those struggling with addiction issues. We are excited that the Associate Ministry of Addictions and Mental Health is working closely with local treatment providers to provide the best service possible to those in need.

Taking Action And Advocating For Agriculture

Lakeland College Submitted

Being a producer in the agricultural industry means being an advocate for it. Lakeland College agribusiness students learned how to be informed, passionate champions of the industry through their Agvocacy project.

Working in groups, students produced advocacy and educational media on key topics to help inform the public about the nuances of it. For students Maddison Penner and Sanne Hansen, it was an excellent opportunity to put their learning into action.

“It’s so important to any agricultural

 CEREAL/PULSE CROP CLEANING  CROP UPGRADING  FUSARIUM/ERGOT SEPARATION  WILDLIFE DAMAGED GRAIN SEPARATION

306-821-2380  mckseed@outlook.com

program to be able to talk about all topics and that we know how to find the resources to inform ourselves on them,” Penner, second-year agribusiness student from Vanderhoof, B.C., explains. “Now we have experience looking for proper sources to find the facts behind discussing or defending agriculture, compared to just using our own opinions. It’s really valuable.”

Penner’s group was tasked with showcasing animal handling and did so with both a video and an ar ticle por traying proper animal handling methods as well as the financial benefits of them. Her group pooled their resources, using video clips they had already taken on their own operations, including some drone shots, and working with the purebred animals at Lakeland’s Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland for additional footage.

“A lot of people who don’t have the same connection we do to a farm or livestock operation might not see it as passionately as we do,” Penner says.

“They might think that we just raise our animals for butcher and are in it for financial benefit, but that’s not it. I fell in love with beef cattle through 4-H, it gave me so much confidence showing animals and working with them. It’s something I’m really passionate about.”

The project gave her the opportunity to discuss and compare animal handling techniques both with her group members, and with other producers.

“My group and I were pretty much on the same page with animal handling and how we do things on our own operations,” she says, explaining that three of her group members raise beef cattle and one raises bison. “ We’re pretty familiar with the topic. It was really neat though because we got to reach out to a lot of producers to ask them how they do things and they were on the same page as well. We are all passionate about our livestock and we want to treat them as respectfully as we can.”

Hansen’s group was tasked with promoting the role of women in agricul-

ture and approached it by making both a video and Instagram profiles featuring women producers.

The video features different women at work, using one word to describe how they view women in agriculture.

“Agriculture is not a gender-specific industry and we wanted to bring awareness to that. We wanted to give a platform to Lakeland women to showcase them and get their voices out there and let them share what they do in the industry,” Hansen, from Fairview, Alta., says.

“Advocacy projects like this one are really important and they’re a good learning experience. We sent out a mass call to women in the community and got so many emails back from women telling us their stories and what they do on the farm or the industry. It was so cool to see how many female alumni we have and how many women actually enroll in the agriculture program at Lakeland. It’s amazing to see what they’re doing and the different opportunities there are for me.”

Box 69, 4912 50 Avenue Kitscoty, AB T0B 2P0 PH: (780) 846-2244 PH: (780) 853-5492

IN OUR BACKYARD ADMINISTRATION NEWS: •

•

Office Closure: The County Offices are currently closed to in-person public access. Please call 780-846-2244 or email office@county24.com for assistance. Core services continue to be maintained during this difficult time caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can stay up to date by visiting our website, following us on Facebook and Twitter, and downloading the VoyentAlert! app.

We are pleased to launch Voyent Alert!. A multi-purpose communication service to keep you informed of critical events, as well as day-to-day communications such as Council meetings and planned maintenance. Register for FREE & receive alerts on the App, via phone, text or email. More information is available on our website.

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT NEWS: •

Your New Home is Just a Lot Away! Purchase one of the fully serviced lots from Blackfoot Phase 3 for a special limited price of $99,000!

Call our office for more information.

NATURAL GAS UTILITY: •

The Natural Gas Refueling Station rates for public consumption have been set at $0.70/L without an account and $0.60/L with an account.

Please contact the Gas Utility at 780.846.2222 for further information on how to access the benefits of Natural Gas Vehicles.

AGRICULTURE & ENVIRONMENT NEWS: •

Ground Squirrel Control: Last summer, the CVR Ag Dept asked landowners to pre-order their strychnine for the 2021 season. This spring, once our shipment arrives, we will be contacting all those who placed an order with us.

For the most up to date information, check out our website or social media. www.vermilion-river.com

NW-27-46-2W4M Adjacent to Range Road 23 North of Township Road 464 SITE DESCRIPTION:  160 acres (150 arable acres)  Agricultural District  More informa�on can be found on our website: Tenders & For Sale







BID PROCEDURE: Bids will be accepted at the County Office un�l March 5, 2021 at 12:00 Noon MST Sale is subject to Condi�ons of the County Property is sold “AS IS”

RESERVE BID: $557,000 PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE TRANSFER COSTS, SERVICING COSTS OR GST.

For more Informa�on contact: Planning and Development Department County of Vermilion Office Box 69, 4912 – 50 Avenue, Kitscoty, AB (Ph) 780-846-2244 planning@county24.com

March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

19

BULL BREEDERS

FarmCash Expanding Services To All Western Canadian Agricultural Producers This Spring

Sue Chikie Reporter

meet their short-term cash flow needs and enhances their long-term profitability,” says Syeda Khurram, FarmCash chief operating officer. “FarmCash takes that extra step by educating producers on the various ways they can utilize this effective tool to benefit their operation.” “ Far m Ca s h i s a g r e at b u s i n e s s management tool for all producers.It can be used in a pinch to mitigate risks, or consistently over time to provide the most benefits. In the past, producers in Western Canada haven’t taken full advantage of innovative tools likeFarmCash that helpplan for financial growth and sustainability in future years. FarmCash is here to help producers!.” said Todd Hames, Alberta Wheat Commission chair.

“Producers across Western Canada

The Alber ta Wheat Commission (AWC) is pleased to announce the FarmCash Advance Payments Program is expanding beyond Alberta and will be available to agricultural producers in British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba beginning March 15, 2021.

Since its inaugural offering in the fall of 2018, FarmCash has been providing Alberta producers of over 50 agricultural commodities – including all major crops, livestock and honey – another competitive option to manage their operation’s cash flow.

“AWC strongly believes that all western Canadian agricultural producers can benefit from the fast and efficient service that FarmCash provides,” says Todd Hames, AWC chair. “We pride the FarmCash program on continually adapting to producers’ cash flow needs and maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction.”

FarmCash provides producers up to $1 million with the first $100,000 interest-free and the remainder at a low interest rate of TD prime minus 0.75 per cent. The free, simple and convenient online application saves producers time, money and provides access to funds in as little as three to five business days based upon the submission of a completed application.

“FarmCash is more than just a cash advance. It’s a tool that helps producers Photo submitted

can rely on FarmCash to save them time and money when it comes to applying for a cash advance. Using our simple and convenient online application, producers can access up to $1 million with the first $100,000 interestfree and the rest at an ultra-low interest rate of TD Prime minus 0.75 per cent.

Our knowledgeable FarmCash team is available to help producers get the most out of the Advance Payments Program.” commented Syeda Khurram, FarmCash and Alberta Wheat Commission chief operating officer.

“The mandate of the Alberta Wheat Commission is to improve the profitability of Alberta farmers. The FarmCash program is merely an extension of our mandate as it provides a competitive option in cash advances for farmers

CASH FLOW TO HELP YOU

GROW

of over 50 commodities, now across the western Canadian provinces. We believe the benefits of low-interest cash advances are just beginning to be explored and are excited about the impacts for the agriculture industry.” stated Tom Steve, Alberta Wheat Commission general manager.

While spring advances will be released starting April 1, 2021, western Canadian producers can access and begin their FarmCash applications as early as March 15. Visit FarmCashAdvance.com today to learn more.

The Advance Payments Program is a federal loan program administered by the Alberta Wheat Commission. It offers Canadian farmers marketing flexibility through interest-free and low interest cash advances.

Advance Payments Program

Programme de paiements anticipés

Cash advances of up to $1 million FarmCash makes it convenient to apply for a low interest cash advance of up to $1 million, with the first $100,000 interest-free. Includes all major crops, livestock and honey.

Apply today at FarmCashAdvance.com

classifieds / careers

20

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

AWNA BLANKET AND LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS thrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. “On Farm Pickup” Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-250-5252.

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.

CERTIFIED SEED. - WHEAT – Go Early, Pintail. OATS – AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, Employment Opportunities BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only SO1 Super Oat. - BARLEY – Amisk, Busby, Cerveza, $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach 90 weekly Conlon, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Very Early Yellow Pea, Forage Peas. Polish Canola, Spring Triticale. mastinseeds.com; 403-556-2609.

Ext 225; www.awna.com.

Coming Events FIREARMS WANTED FOR APRIL 24th, 2021 LIVE & ONLINE AUCTION. Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria. Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual Items. Contact Paul, Switzer’s Auction: TollFree 1-800-694-2609; sales@switzersauction.com or www.switzersauction.com.

Feed and Seed ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.

HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Spring-

Equipment For Sale 1998 JOHN DEERE 310D Tractor Loader Backhoe.

4-wheel drive. Extenda hoe. Original owner. $28,000.

ROLL-OFF BINS & TRUCK. 1992 Ford L9000 and 9 Bins, 30 cubic yard each. All in excellent condition. $140,000. 780-446-1051.

Health

GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. ALL Ages & Medical Conditions qualify. Have a child under 18 instantly receive more money. CALL THE BENEFITS PROGRAM 1-800-211-3550 or send a text message with your name and mailing address to 403-980-3605 for your FREE benefits package.

HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-453-5372.

barrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver.

Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation.

1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $995 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 90 Weekly Community Newspapers.

Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@ awna.com for details. 1-800-282-6903, 780-434-8746 Land for Sale X225. www.awna.com.

VERY INEXPENSIVE 2 QUARTERS OF PASTURE GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? UnemLAND, Central SK, for sale. 8 other good quarters ployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own may be available. Requires fencing. Great hunting home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Mem$74,900. Call Doug at 306-716-2671. ber BBB. 1-877-987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com.

Services CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be em-

VOICE CLASSIFIEDS AND CAREERS For Rent 2000 sq ft, bright, spacious, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, main floor laundry, large foyer entrance, hardwood floors throughout, high ceiling basement with separate entrance into downstairs workshop area. Large corner lot. $1,200 per month rent. $1,200 damage deposit, available February 20. Call Susan (780) 6993143.

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 services

You will like our prices! Take the time to give us a call!

Lloydminster 780-875-6636, Toll Free # 1-888-8581011.

Everblack Angus 29th Annual Bull & Female Sale Monday, March 29, 2:00 PM at the farm south of Vermilion.

Offering 70+ two year old, 10 yearling bulls as well as 15 open Angus heifers.

For more info or a catalogue call

T Bar C Cattle Co. 306-220-5006.

View catalogue online at www.BuyAgro.com.

Watch & bid online at www.DLMS.ca 3” wide version (PL#116061)

PET OF THE WEEK FINNEGAN

Finnegan, along with his friend Windstorm were unfortunately left out front of our Shelter during a cold evening, but luckily were found soon and brought into the warmth.

Finnegan is an adventurous, playful and full of goofy antics and would do best in a home with older children as he is a big kitty and can some times play a bit rough. Finnegan loves to have room to explore and we think he would absolutely love to have a catio to hang out in when the weather gets warmer.

If you think Finnegan is the rough and tumblin’, adventure seeking, big softy you’ve been looking for, then look no further than your Lloydminster SPCA. Call to book an appointment to meet him today!

CAREER OPPORTUNITY The East Central Family Day Home Agency is now looking for program providers

If you’re great with kids, and are looking for a rewarding career that allows you to work from the comfort of your home, become a provider for the East Central Family Day Home Program.

You’ll meet new people in your community, enjoy free educational workshops and earn monthly bonuses, all while providing quality childcare for the children and families of Vermilion and area.

Clandonald Agricultural Society $50-A-Week Winners

Your only local independent newspaper.

Proudly serving Vermilion and area since 2004.

3.75” wide version

For Sale Certified 2020 Algonquin Alfalfa Seed

ACROSS 1 Strike

essential Vermilion, united AB

BOILERMAKERS LODGE 146

WINTER HARDY ALGONQUIN ALFALFA SEED

CROSSWORD PUZZLES 3.75” wide version

Don’s cell: 780-853-7172, open Hugh's Cell: 780-581-8608

5006-50 Ave., Vermilion, AB T9X 1A2 open Ph:foodbanksalberta.ca/ 780-853-6305 Fx: 780-853-5426 Email: vermilionvoice@gmail.com

February 2 – Tyrel & Cassie Cusack February 9 – Willa McCormack February 16 – Ramona Mathison February 23 – Robert Garnier 3” wide version

Call Ram River Forage Seeds 403-634-1643

Phone to discuss process for Online Auction of Land & Equipment 3” wide version

Call 780-853-4725

Whether you want to work full time, part time, or on a casual basis, the East Central Family Day Home Program is ready to work with you.

Sponsored By The Vermilion Voice

Farmer Direct.

FREE SHIPPING on orders over 1200 lb.

Book your

2021 Auction

www.lloydminsterspca.com

99.9% purity, zero weed seeds, inoculated, in 55 lb bags wholesale price $2.90 a pound. Algonquin Alfalfa is a tap root tri foliate, extremely winter hardy, fine stem, and excellent disease resistance.

Also Selling Timothy and Brome Grass Blends to your specifications.

STEWART AUCTIONS

for upcoming 2021 Maintenance Turnarounds in Alberta.

• TIG WELDERS • B PRESSURE WELDERS • FITTERS

• APPRENTICES

$44 /HR + BENEFITS

780-451-5992 ext 247 send resume to: hr146@boilermakers.ca For moreFor info, visit: info: boilermakers.ca/non-member more boilermakers.ca 458

DOWN

open essential united foodbanksalberta.ca/open

3.75” wide version

45 Despot

1 Bang down 36 Type of BOILERMAKERS LODGE 146 2 Place communication 3 Famous cookies 39 __ bird Flavor of sherbet 49 Fried seafood 42 __ Lanka For14Sale Certified 2020 Algonquin Alfalfa Seed 4 Plural for pennies 15 Regenerate 52 Docket 5 Brute 44 Type of mob for upcoming 2021 Maintenance 99.9% 16 purity, zero weedbrand seeds, inoculated, in 55 lb bags wholesale 6 Snake like fish Corn syrup 53 Gender 47 Talked aimlessly Turnarounds in price $2.90 a pound. a tap root tri foliate, 17 Long timeAlgonquin Alfalfa 54isCereal 7 Stake 50Alberta.

Modern extremely winter hardy, fine stem, and excellent disease resistance.

18 Fanatical 56 Young Men's Christian • TIG 8 Show 51 Ski coats WELDERS • B PRESSURE WELDERS 19 Thought Association 9 Overshadows 55 Elixir Also Selling Timothy and Brome Grass Blends to your specifications.

• FITTERS • APPRENTICES 20 Capital of Oman 58 Eye rain 10 Overlook 57 Father's sisters /HR 22 Direct.

From Europe Asian country 11 Walk throughext water 58 Fable + BENEFITS Farmer FREE SHIPPING63on orders over 1200 lb.780-451-5992 ext247 247 24 Aegis 67 Military unit 12 Region 59 Little Mermaid's love 26 Football assoc.

68 Prayer position 13send Groanresume to: hr146@boilermakers.ca 60 Bullets 458 For more visit: boilermakers.ca/non-member Forinfo, more info: boilermakers.ca 27 Foreign Agricultural 70 Not any 21 One hundred of these 61 Baseball's Nolan Service 71 National capital makes a shekel in Israel 62 Mexican money 30 Capital of Norway 72 Hallway 23 Roberto's yes 64 Stole 32 Confidence 73 Lug 25 Trips 65 Negative (prefix) 37 The other half of Jima 74 Economics abrv.

27 Clenched hands 66 Desire 38 European river 75 Rant 28 Flooded 69 Wing 40 Roam 76 Glide 29 Relating to the sun 41 Popular condiment 31 Upon (2 wds.)

43 School group 33 Weep 44 Household cleaner 34 Flowers brand 35 Arouse 5 Moustache's 46 Sorrowful WINTER HARDYpartner ALGONQUIN ALFALFA SEED 10 Played in the water 48 Stretch to make do

$44

Call Ram River Forage Seeds 403-634-1643

Puzzle Solution Page 21

business cards

March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

21

VERMILION AND AREA BUSINESSES HEARTS

AND

COUNTRY TOUCH MASSAGE

HANDS

Reaching out to families & individuals

We will provide a gift of Food, Personal Items, Cleaning Products, Baby Formula and Diapers.

(People & Animals) LORRAINE KOCHAN

Bus: (780) 853-5772 Fax: (780) 853-6910 Cell: (780) 853-3476 Email: rocw@telus.net 1-877-853-5772 4545 - 46 Ave. Vermilion, AB T9X 1J2

PHONE ONLY 780-581-0521 Leave a message and we will return your call (No text or email)

RMT

Professional Corporation

Chartered Professional Accountant

Deborah A. Tovell, CPA, CGA Deborah@accountingvermilionab.ca Suite 14 Bus: (780) 853-2801 5125 - 50th Avenue Fax: (780) 853-1728 Vermilion, Alberta T9X 1L9

DIGITAL PRINT SERVICES

(780) 853-7714 Derek Selte Vermilion, AB

Promote Your Corporate Card Here

Dr. Joe DeGirolamo Dr. Michelle Radasic (deJong) Vermilion Dental

Available at Lakeland College

Family Dentistry

Located on the south side of Vermilion campus next to the Service Centre.

Ph: 780.853.6505 5003 - 50th Street Vermilion, Alberta T9X 1M6

For more information call 780.853.8410 or email printing@lakelandcollege.ca

Prices as low as $18.27 a week for a 1 Year Contract or call us for 6 or 3 month Pricing vermilionvoice@gmail.com

780-853-6305

VERMILION AND AREA HOME BUSINESSES Vermilion Breeders Co-op

You Dump it, We Pump it

JEFF’S SEPTIC TANK SERVICE

Financing Available for Bred Cows, Bred Cows with Calves at Side, and Bred Heifers

780-853-2344 Raw food

Apparel Home Décor Pet Grooming 4932 - 50th Ave. Vermilion, AB T9X 1A4

and Porta-potty Rentals Box 5 Myrnam, AB T0B 3K0 Cell (780) 581-3867 H (780) 366-3855 or Abe (780) 210-0431

Rick Rewuski Box 1265, Dewberry, AB T0B 1G0 Ph: (780) 847-4166 Fax: (780) 847-4944

   C#: 306-307-2645 or 780-808-1957 (Leave a message) email: kenmarcamaro72@gmail.com

Tom’s Interior/ Exterior Handi Man

E L E C T R I C

Elaine Urwin, RMT

Murray Brown • R E SID E N T I A L • C O M M E R CI A L •SERVICE

(780) 581-0852

Registered Massage Therapist

KEN HARTWELL pH: 780-853-3318

ampedelectric14@gmail.com

(780) 853-3605 Vermilion Septic Services

5DQFKLQJ 6\VWHPV /WG 6HDQ 0F*UDWK 3 $J

%R[ 9HUPLOLRQ $% 7 ; %

VHDQ#UDQFKLQJV\VWHPV FRP ZZZ UDQFKLQJV\VWHPV FRP

Trent Westman owner/operator

Brandon Tupper

5002-65th St Vermilion, AB T9X 1X6 c : 780.581.8775 t : 1.888.545.7707 Brandon@KnightsSpraying.ca f : 1.780.628.0777 www.KnightsSpraying.ca

The East Central Family Day Home Agency

Call 780-853-6314 Cell 780-853-7801

Lasting Impressions Catering Charlene Young PH: 780.853.3856

EM: mcy1@telus.net Web: www.lastingimpressionscatering.com 4614 - 48A Ave, Vermilion, AB

“Our reputation is on the table”

Jon Bodurka

JBCA

Custom Spraying & Grain Hauling

780-787-3326 jbcaspraying2004@gmail.com

Commercial • Residential • Farm Maintenance • Trenching

780-853-0650

Grain, Fer�lizer, or Pellet Hauling

ESSENTIAL SELF MASSAGE THERAPY

*Helping Families Build Happy Children We have licensed Day Home Providers who have room to provide care for all ages. We provide snacks, lunches and planned activities. Parents can apply for subsidy.

Call Shelley today to find your quality Child Care 780-853-6190

A Flush is Better than a Full House

For Promt Officient Service

780-205-6642

Relaxation Massage ▪ Therapeutic Massage Hot Stone Massage ▪ Reiki Master Pregnancy Massage

Shelly Gordon RMT

Specializing in Livestock Hauling

Ernie Lessner Cell: 780-205-1571

780-581-5531

#20, 5125 50 Ave., Vermilion Professional Building Vermilion, AB T9X 1A8

59

Tel: 780-847-2405

Call/Text: 780-872-3324 Email: Northcountry06@outlook.com Owners: Ed & Faryn Anderson

http://www.dailysu

HOROSCOPE/SUDOKU AND SOLUTIONS Daily Sudoku: Mon 1-Mar-2021

7 3 1 2 8 6 5

1 7 9 5 4 3 2

9 4

8 6

3 8 4 6 9 1 7 2 5

9 6 5 1 2 4 8 3 7

2 9 3 8 5 7 6 4 1

hard

5 4 2 7 1 9 3 6 8

8 1 7 9 6 2 4 5 3

4 5 6 3 7 8 9 1 2

6 2 8 4 3 5 1

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2021. All rights reserved.

ARIES

Courses dealing with psychology or health care will be of interest. Dealing with foreigners will be most enlightening. Deal with in-laws today.

TAURUS

Your charm will be captivating. Your tendency to take on too much will end in fatigue. You may want to take a look at courses offered at a local institute.

GEMINI

A residential move may be in order. Don't be afraid of opposition; your suggestions are valid. You are best to keep hard feelings to yourself.

7 9

CANCER

Daily Sudoku: Mon 1-Mar-2021

6 5

8

LEO

Don't let your partner start any arguments.

Passion should be redirected positively.

Exaggeration or deception coupled with overindulgence might be a problem.

9 1 9 4 7

1 5 1

5 3 8

9 6 2

4 2

9

7 8 9 6

8 6

1 2

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2021. All rights reserved.

Talk to those in a position of power about your intentions. Investments will cost more than you anticipated. Think before you act.

VIRGO

Don't let your work and your personal life interfere with each other. You will meet a person who may turn out to be more than just a friend.

LIBRA

Don't let your partner goad you into wearing your heart on your sleeve. You can make money, but try not to let it slip through your fingers.

SCORPIO

Put some energy into getting back into shape. Listen to reason. When the work is done, they may serve you for a change.

Sports, physical fitness programs, exercise in general will make you feel better.

SAGITTARIUS

Do not let others exhaust you financially. You need to spend some time with individuals who have more experience than you. Get involved in activities that will be fun for the whole family.

CAPRICORN

Set a limit, or you'll wind up on a tight budget. Try not to discuss important matters with colleagues. Don't beat around the bush; state your case in plain and simple terms.

AQUARIUS

Get together with friends and catch up on reading and letter writing. It will do you some good. You can continue to forge ahead if you make a few long distance calls pertinent to closing pending deals.

PISCES

Do not give your heart to someone who may not live up to your standards. Secret affairs will eventually backfire on you. You may find travel to be most rewarding.

9 4 5 7 3 9 8 1 5 1 9 6 5 8

6

1 2 8

4 2

6

9 1 6 7 2 8 9

Daily Sudoku: Mon 1-Mar-2021 Crossword Puzzle

Page 20

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2021. All rights reserved.

&RQVXOWLQJ DQG 3URGXFWV WR ,PSURYH 5DQFK 3URILWDELOLW\

Installation of Siding, Window Capping, Soffit, Fascia, Eavestroughing FOR A FREE ESTIMATE CALL TOM AT 780-581-6167 NO JOB TOO SMALL

Brendan Franklin

22

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

Karen King Submitted

Pink Shir t Day took place on February 24. Many students and staff proudly participated in this day by donning pink shirts as well as other pink paraphernalia. We were so excited to be involved in this anti-bullying event.

Following the resignation of Mrs. McCullough as principal of Mannville School, Mr. Anhorn was asked by the

Vermilion Elementary School News

BTPS Board to spend a few weeks at Mannville School to support staff and students through the transition.

The next few weeks have additional tasks for the BTPS leadership team as the provincial budget is released at the end of February and planning for next year begins. Mr. Anhorn also has experience being a principal in a K-12 school. During the couple of weeks that Mr. Anhorn is away, Mrs. Doherty will be our Acting Principal. Mr. Anhorn is expected to be back in VES on March

8.

Calgary Opera’s virtual school tour performance of Hansel and Gretel will be coming to VES this March. We are so excited to share this updated performance of this classic opera with our students. A 30-35 minute pre-recorded video of Hansel and Gretel will be sent to VES. This link will be made available to us from March 22 to April 16.

We can watch the video whenever we like, stopping it, restarting it, rewinding it, etc. We simply cannot share any of

it on social media. We are offered this for free this year as the opera company feels that as many children as possible need this during these challenging times. Thank you Calgary Opera.

Dates to Remember: Mar. 3 – Dress up as a Super Hero or as Someone Who Is Your Super Hero; Mar. 5 – BTPS Learning Day – No School; Mar. 8-12 – Science Fair; Mar. 15 – School Council Meeting at 7; Mar. 25 – Parent Teacher Interview; April 2-11 – Easter Break – No School.

4A Basketball. Photos submitted

St. Saviour’s Anglican Church Helps Feed Vermilion Children

Submitted On Thursday, Feb. 25th, Rev. Eliza b et h M etc a l fe (R e c to r) a n d R i t a Barr (Church Warden) delivered two c h e q u e s (a m o u n t i n g t o j u s t o ve r $1500.) to local schools in suppor t of their School Lunch program. The cheques were received by Brandon Tupper, President of VES Hot Lunch Societ y and Sarah Dewing, repre senting St. Jerome`s School Lunch Program.

This donation has become a tradition the past few years, as the parish designated proceeds of their Fall Garage Sale back to the community and the School Lunch Program was chosen as the recipient. This year, due to the pandemic, the annual garage sale could not be held. The parish members recognized the hot lunch programs

need for funding had not gone away; community and to show God’s love and cially during these times through this and in fact, had likely grown. care for those who are struggling finan- donation.”

Throughout the pandemic, St. Saviour’s has continued to meet via Zoom and post the ser vices to the church`s Facebook page. They have not met together for over a year, but want to continue to find ways to reach out to the community. Rector, Rev. Elizabeth Metcalfe said, “ Throughout this difficult time the parish has been discovering what it is to “be the church”, when we are unable to meet in person on Sundays. Our unofficial motto during the pandemic has been “Stay safe, love God and love others”, so when the members of the church b e c a m e aw a r e o f t h e n e e d , t h ey opened their hearts and generously donated to the effort. We are happy to be able to connect with the school From left, Rev. Elizabeth Metcalfe, Brandon Tupper and Rita Barr.

WANTED

WANTED

Canadian Prairie Pickers

Canadian Prairie Pickers

DEAD OR ALIVE

are once again touring the area!

DEAD OR ALIVE

are once again touring the area!

Paying Cash For Coin Collections, Silver & Gold Coins, Royal Can. Mint Sets.

Also Buying Gold Jewelry

$

$ $

We purchase rolls, bags or boxes of silver coins

$

$ $

Paying Cash For Coin Collections, Silver & Gold Coins, Royal Can. Mint Sets.

Also Buying Gold Jewelry

$

$ $

We purchase rolls, bags or boxes of silver coins

$

$ $

PAYING HIGHEST PRICES

PAYING HIGHEST PRICES

To arrange a free, discrete in-home visit

To arrange a free, discrete in-home visit

call Kellie at 1-778-257-8647 Bonded since 1967

call Kellie at 1-778-257-8647

From left, Sarah Dewing, Rev. ElizabethBonded Mercalfe and Rita Barr. Photos submitted since 1967

local / area news

March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

Vermilion RCMP Investigate Stolen Vehicle

RCMP Submitted

Vermilion, Alta. – On Feb. 21, 2021 at 6:35 a.m., Vermilion RCMP responded to a report of a vehicle theft from a residence on 50 Avenue in Innisfree, Alta.

The vehicle was taken three hours earlier by a lone male who smashed the rear window to gain access.

The vehicle is described as a white 2006 Ford F350 with Alberta licence plate CHM5956. The vehicle has a light

bar on the back of the cab, as well as a blue Mastercraft hose reel attached to the back of the service bed.

If you see this vehicle or have any information about this crime, please contact the Vermilion RCMP at 780-853-5781.

23

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips. com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store

Photos submitted

Lloydminster RCMP Arrest Two In Possession Of Stolen Vehicle

RCMP

Submitted

Lloydminster, Alberta – On February 23rd, 2021 at approximately 6 p.m.

Lloydminster RCMP members were patrolling and recognized a suspicious vehicle that was recently stolen from Kitsc ot y. Police arrested the female driver and male occupant when they arrived at a local business on

RCMP

18th Street in Lloydminster. The stolen • Fail to Comply with conditions of a vehicle was towed by the RCMP for a release order (x2) forensic examination.

• Fail to comply with probation order Leyen Meesto, 37 of Lloydminster, Shaylean Dillon, 23 of Saskatoon, SK was charged with the following; SK was charged with the following; • Possession of Property obtained by • Possession of Property obtained by crime crime • Po s s e s s i o n o f a w e a p o n f o r a • Po s s e s s i o n o f a w e a p o n f o r a dangerous purpose dangerous purpose • Resist/obstruction of a Peace officer • Resist/obstruction of a Peace offi-

cer • Drive while Prohibited Leyen Meesto has been remanded into custody and will be appearing in Alberta Provincial Court in Lloydminster on March 2nd, 2021 Shaylean Dillon was released on a release order and will be appearing in Saskatchewan Provincial Court in Lloydminster on March 23rd, 2021

Lloydminster RCMP Make Arrest After Male Stabbed

Submitted

Lloydminster, Sask. – On February 21st, 2021 at approximately 10:30 p.m. Lloydminster RCMP members were called to a residence in the area of 43 Street and 48 Avenue for a report of a disturbance. Upon

arrival, police observed that a 51-year-old male at the location was suffering from stab wounds as a result of an altercation with another male. RCMP members provided emergency medical attention to the victim who was transported to hospital by EMS. The suspect in this matter fled from the

residence, however was arrested by Lloy- • Possession of a weapon for a dangerdminster RCMP members at another locaous purpose tion a short time afterwards.

• Breach of probation (x3) Joseph Alexis, 27, of Lloydminster, AB Joseph Alexis has been remanded into was charged with the following; custody and will be appearing in Saskatch• Aggravated assault ewan Provincial Court in Lloydminster on • Assault with a weapon March 1, 2021

Letter To The Editor - Defending Alberta Firearms Owners And Their Property Rights

Alberta’s government is committed to protecting the property rights of responsible Alberta firearms owners. Unfortunately – with the recent introduction of nonsensical, made-in-Torontofirearms legislation that criminalizes law-abiding firearms owners while doing little to address the scourge of illegallysmuggled firearms, which are used in the vast majority of crimes –the same cannot be said for the Trudeau Liberals.

Among other problematic measures, the new legislation would allow individual municipalitiesto run their own firearms bans if they so choose. This would lead to a patchwork of firearms laws across our province. While many municipal leaders understand and appreciate the role of firearms in the lives of farmers, ranchers and sport shooters – others have pledged to try and ban certain types of firearms because the woke elites of Hollywood told them to.

None of this makes sense for Alberta,

where the vast majority of firearms owners are responsible, trained and law-abiding – not criminals. Unfortunately, we know the federal government cannot be trusted when it comes to the property rights of firearms owners, as evidenced by the High River “gun grab”.

That is why Alberta’s Firearms Advisory Committee unanimously passed a motion to begin the process of appointing our province’s own Chief Provincial Firearms Officer to replace the one appointed by Ottawa.

This is a great step for our province, butI am of the belief that more needs to be done.That is why I tabled Bill 211: the Municipal Government (Firearms) Amendment Act.If passed, Bill 211 would amendthe Municipal Government Act to state that municipalities do not have the power to pass laws on firearms unless authorized by the province.

This is a proactive step to protect the rights of responsible Alberta firearms owners, and is similar to legislation

recently passed in Saskatchewan.

Enough is enough. Albertans who followed the law and purchased their property in adherence to all the rules and regulations should not be targeted like criminals by Ottawa or their local governments, especially when the new federal legislation does little to address illegal firearms and illegal firearms crime.

If the Liberals have proved anything to Alber tans, it’s that they will stop at nothing to infringe upon personal property rights while ignoring gangs and thugs smuggling guns across the border. The federal Liberals and NDP even voted previously against a private member’s bill that would have increased prison time for those caught using illegally-smuggled firearms in the commission of a crime. And just the other day, the Liberals introduced legislation that would remove mandatory sentencing provisions for those found guilty of firearms crimes, paving the way for softer

5006-50 Ave., Vermilion, AB T9X 1A2 Ph: 780-853-6305 Fx: 780-853-5426 Email: vermilionvoice@gmail.com Your only local independent newspaper.

Proudly serving Vermilion and area since 2004.

sentences.

Picking on law-abiding Canadians is cowardice. Hunters harvesting food for the winter are not criminals. Farmers protecting their livestock from deadly predators are not criminals. Spor t shooters who enjoy competitive and recreational firearms activities are not criminals. Bill 211 recognizes this and would, if passed, protect the property rights of responsible firearms owners in Alberta for generations to come.

I grew up around firearms. I know how important it is to treat firearms with respect and care, and so do you. That is why I am committed to standing up for you against an intransigent federal government. It is also why Alberta is appointing its own Chief Provincial Firearms Officer and why Bill 211 is a priority today.

Mi c haela Glasg o UCP M L A for Brooks-Medicine Hat and the Chair of the Alberta Firearms Advisory Committee

Proud Memeber of the Alberta Weekly Newspaper Association!

24

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

BULL BREEDERS

Record Keeping For Forage And Grassland Management Webinar March 23rd

Beef Cattle Research Council Submitted

Food Sciences.

Upon graduating in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science (Agriculture) Ryan returned home to the farm and began farming full time. Continuous education is important to Ryan and he has since taken many courses including Ranching for Profit and Holistic Management and many other grazing, cattle, soil and crop seminars and workshops.

Ryan is currently an executive board member of the Manitoba Foarage and Grasslands Association and the Humesville Cemetery.

Ryan is passionate about all things farming and grateful for the opportunity to farm alongside his wife Sarah and kids Piper and Bingham.

Jeremy Brown is an agrologist with Ducks Unlimited Canada, based in North Battleford. This involves working with ranchers and farmers to promote healthy grasslands as nesting habitat for waterfowl.

What enhances the sustainability of grasslands benefits the agriculture industry, the landscape and wildlife.

He has a Bachelor of Agriculture from the University of Saskatchewan. Jeremy was raised on a grain and cattle

Pasture and stored forages are critical resources in the cattle industry. An effective management plan requires realistic production goals, a clear understanding of forage production, effective grazing strategies and timely responses to forage availability and changing environmental conditions.

Record keeping can support management decisions needed to effectively manage both pasture and stored forage. This webinar will discuss the record keeping methods used by three producers to manage their pastures and forages.

Registering on your Smartphone? After you click ‘I am not a robot’, scroll up until you find the task to complete.

When: Tuesday, March 23rd at 7:00 pm MT • 6:00 p.m. in BC • 7:00 p.m. in AB • 8:00 p.m. in SK and MB • 9:00 p.m. in ON and QC • 10:00 p.m. in NS, NB and PEI Interested but aren’t available that evening? Register anyway! This webinar will be recorded and posted online at a later date. All registrants will receive a link to the recording and additional learning resources. By attending the live broadcast, you’ll have the opportunity to interact and ask questions too.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Cost: BCRC webinars are available and free of charge thanks to guest speakers who volunteer their time and expertise to support advancements in the Canadian beef industry, and through the Technology Transfer project funded by the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off and Canada’s Beef Science Cluster.

Speakers: Ryan Boyd grew up on the farm, attended Forrest Elementary School and graduated from Elton Collegiate in 2001. After high school Ryan attended University of Manitoba and studied agronomy in the Faculty of Agriculture and Steve Kenyon.

Jeremy Brown.

farm near Cut Knife, Sask. He lives on the family homestead with his wife, Marla, and their two children. They operate a custom grazing business.

Steve Kenyon runs a custom grazing business in the Westlock, Alberta area under the name of Greener Pastures Ranching Ltd. He currently runs just over 1,400 head of livestock on 3,000 acres of leased land. By using extended grazing techniques, he is able to pasture cattle year-round.

This is done by using a combination of intensive cell grazing, dormant season grazing, swath grazing, crop residue grazing and bale grazing. Steve has become well respected in the agriculture community for his business management and innovative ideas.

Steve has been teaching sustainable grazing management for more than 15 years and has been a keynote speaker at many conferences and seminars throughout Canada and the U.S. He is a writer for the Stockman Grass Farmer magazine and also for the Canadian Cattleman Magazine.

Thank you to BCRC for permission to reprint this article.

For more information check the website at http://www.beefresearch.ca/

Ryan Boyd. Photos submitted

March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

25

Ruzicka Farms 3rd Annual Ranchers Choice Bull Sale Farmgate Auction with DLMS March 12 - 13 Open House at the farm March 11 - 13 daily from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Offering 19 Red & Black Simmental Bulls for sale

BCRC

JLA 7H

JLA 56H

STOP BY AND SEE THE BULLS ANYTIME Ruzicka Farms Mike & Jenine Ruzicka

14021 TWP RD 462, Killam, AB Jenine 780 385-4092 Mike 780 385-4162

What Goes In Must Come Out: Manure And Nutrient Management

Submitted

In a cow-calf operation where cattle are often fed in pens for a portion of the year, pens are generally cleaned at least annually to remove accumulated manure and bedding. While backgrounders and feedlots have enforced protocols to manage and store manure, general guidelines apply to all producer s w h o are han d lin g an d stor in g manure.

Manure offers a long-term source of nutrients that can influence soil properties, increase soil carbon and nitrogen, and alter soil phosphorus and potassium concentrations along with other nutrients. Best management practices must be followed across all sectors from cow/calf to backgrounders and feedlots.

Though specifics var y by region, recommendations include: • avoid shor t term sto ck piles on sandy soils, rock quarries, or gravel pits • use a concrete pad if possible, to prevent nutrient leaching into soil and groundwater • have runoff containment, such as a lagoon • ensure that stored manure areas are at least 60 metres from drilled water wells, 400 metres from municipal wells and 120 metres

from all other wells, streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds • the slope of the land where manure is stockpiled must not be greater than 3% to avoid overland runoff • ke e p w i nte r fe e d i n g s i te s a n d corrals at least 30 metres from bodies of water

Sun C

Treatment of stored manure can include stockpiling, composting, drying, and less commonly, separation and filtering. These methods reduce moisture content, which reduces volume and odour. Stockpiling (no treatment), composting and drying are the most common treatment strategies in beef

cattle operations.

Visit our new webpage for more information on the benefits, use and storage of manure.

Thank you to BCRC for permission to reprint this article. For more information check the website at http://www. beefresearch.ca/

horthorn Sale S ountry 14 Annual th

March 9, 2021 1: 00 PM

On offer will be 38 yearling and two year old Shorthorn bulls plus 16 Replacement Heifers

Johnstone Auction Mart, Moose Jaw, SK

Photo submitted

Looking for Farmland to Rent!

Isn’t it time you considered adding Shorthorn genetics to your breeding program?

For more information contact :

Proffesional, Courteous and Experienced Call Greg 780-970-1231 e: gw308@hotmail.com

HORSESHOE CREEK FARMS LTD. ROCKING L CATTLE COMPANY Dylan & Celeste Lamontagne Grant & Chris Alexander Wawota, SK 306-577-8875 Weyburn, SK 306-861-5504 (c) www.rockinglcattleco.com www.horseshoecreekfarms.com DIAMOND CREEK CATTLE CO. LAMONTAGNE HOLDINGS LTD. Rylan & Todd Knupp Hector & Jeanine Lamontagne Weyburn, SK 306-861-1422 (c) Wawota, SK 306-577-8840 FB: Diamond Creek Cattle Company www.rockinglcattleco.com

Sale will be broadcast LIVE at www.dvauction.com

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The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

BULL BREEDERS

Canada’s Agriculture Day And Beef Producers Who Safeguard The Environment

Beef Cattle Research Council Submitted

On February 23, we celebrated Canada’s Agriculture Day. Canadian beef farmers raise cattle, produce nutritious beef, provide jobs, and create economic value, making the beef sector an important part of Canada’s agriculture and food community.

Canada’s beef producers also play a vital role in taking care of the environment, a large responsibility that farmers

and ranchers are not always credited for.

While there is still room for improvement on some fronts, there is much to celebrate while the beef sector continues to improve its environmental track record.

These facts demonstrate some of the valuable ways in which beef producers manage environmental resources: • B e ef pro d u c er s stewar d s e n s i tive grassland and riparian ecosystems that provide many ecologi-

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cal, economic, and societal benefits.

These ecoservices include biodiversity conservation, flood control, and habitat for species at risk, wildlife, birds and pollinators, and more.

• Beef c at tle make use of steep, erosion-prone, rocky, or forested land that cannot grow crops for human consumption. This marginal agricultural land is unsuitable for crop production, yet it is well-matched for grazing, which is a natural disturbance necessary to support rangeland habitat, improve forage production, and enable nutrient cycling. Grazing cattle upcycle the forage grown on marginal land into nutrient rich beef.

• Farmers are reducing their use of fossil fuels and synthetic fertilizers by using innovative grazing management strategies and seeding cover crops to improve their soils and increase forage production.

• Producers reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve feed efficiency by implementing growth promoting technologies that maintain a high standard of food safety and animal health.

• Cattle make a significant contribution to reducing food loss. Canada has committed to the United Nations goal to cut global food loss (e.g. harvest and storage losses, crop residues and processing by-products) and food waste (retail, restaurants and home) in half by 2030. Cattle convert

high fiber crop residues and food processing by-products into high quality protein more efficiently than other livestock.

• Science and innovation have reduced the overall environmental footprint of Canadian beef. Researchers found that producing each unit of Canadian beef used 17% less water, required 29% less breeding cattle, 24% less land, and produced 15% less greenhouse gases in 2011 compared to 1981. The beef sector is committed to emissions reductions and have set a 10-year goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 33% during the primary production phase by 2030.

The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association recognizes the outstanding environmental stewardship efforts of Canada’s beef producers each year. The 2020 winners of The Environmental Stewardship Award were BC’s Woodjam Ranch.

With a focus on fact, innovation and communication, Canada’s beef producers strive to continually improve environmental outcomes. Today, as we celebrate Agriculture Day and beef for their important contributions to agriculture and food, let’s also celebrate the role they play in managing Canada’s environmental landscapes.

Thank you to BCRC for permission to reprint this article. For more information check the website at http://www.beefresearch.ca/

Upcoming feature saleS Tuesday March 9th, 2021 At 1:00 PM On offer 51 Black and Red Simmental bulls, Lunch at 12 noon.

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March 2, 2021 | The Vermilion Voice

The Commissions Keep Watch On Ag Industry Changes

Lauren Comin, Director of Research, Alberta Wheat and Barley Commissions Submitted

When the UCP government was elected and took over the provincial government in 2018, we expected changes to bureaucracy but were uncertain of what the exact impact would be on the ag sector.

Shortly after stepping into his role as Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Devin Dreeshen announced his intentions to review and refresh the agriculture department with a “farmer-led” lens, while some positions primarily focused on extension were eliminated early on, industry consultations bridged the gap from this announcement to any major changes.

For our part, the Alberta Wheat and Barley Commissions stressed the maintenance of critical monitoring and surveillance work, as well as unbiased industry extension for research, policy and programming.

Because the ministry housed talented, regionally-focused agronomy researchers, we encouraged the ministry to work

with funders and stakeholders to transition their roles to other research institutions along with a long-term sustainable funding model. We began to foresee the loss of many programs and were determined to help direct them to a long-term home more conducive to carrying out scientific research.

Since the consultations, many changes have occurred and even more are expected prior to the provincial government’s fiscal year end in March 2021. Producer groups including the commissions have been following closely with action to fill the extension and knowledge transfer voids ensuring that the impact felt by our grassroots members are minimal.

Following a round of cuts to extension staff during the spring of 2020, it became apparent that Alberta Agriculture and Forestry (AF) would not have capacity to produce the crop protection guide, commonly referred to as “The Blue Book”.

To ensure that Alberta producers still have access to up-to-date crop protection infor-

We are looking for talented individuals to join our team!

mation, the Alberta Wheat Commission applied for a Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP) grant to support the four crop commissions (Alberta Wheat Commission, Alberta Barley, Alberta Canola and Alberta Pulse Growers) in producing The Blue Book for the 2021 crop season. Post2021, the commissions intend to continue producing the manual, replacing the CAP grant with revenue from 2021 sales to supplement their investment. Visit albertabluebook.com to learn more and place an advanced order of the 2021 Blue Book for March shipping.

Another agronomic staple that the crop commission did not want to lose due to changes within the ministry is Agronomy Update. For years, Agronomy Update has brought together Alberta’s farmers, agronomists and researchers for presentations on the latest innovations in crop manage-

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21031AA3

ment. The four crop commissions worked hard to plan an accessible, quality virtual event that was held January 19 and 20, 2020, ensuring that this important extension opportunity was not lost.

Many AF staff and programs have been transferred to post-secondary programs throughout the province. Most of these transfers are based on three-year funding agreements with the province, including the transfer of the Field Crop Development Centre and the provincial barley and triticale breeding program to Olds College. We are hopeful the transfer of research staff to these institutions will allow more freedom to operate in a scientific space. However, these transfers are not without significant challenges. The commissions will remain highly engaged to ensure that programs are not diminished by funding issues once the provincial grants run their course.

Purebred Charolais Yearling

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28

The Vermilion Voice | March 2, 2021

BULL BREEDERS

Using The Seeding Rate Calculator For Seeding Success This Spring

David Simbo, Research Program Manager profits.

Submitted As the genetic potential of cereals Alberta Wheat and Barley Commissions has significantly increased over the last Wheat and barley seeding rates influ- decades, augmenting plant population and ence yield, kernel uniformity and plump- other agronomic on-farm practices could ness, grain maturity, grain protein content, exploit crop genetic potential for increased disease incidence, in-crop weed compe- yields and, ultimately, profit for producers. tition and, in some cases, end-use qualSeeding rate calculators are the best ity. Since grain protein content and grain tool to help you lock in the seeding rate plumpness are important factors in deter- that’s going to give you the most bangs mining malt quality in barley, for example, for your buck. Alberta Agriculture and seeding rates could directly affect use and Forestry has one available to farmers, but

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of course the accuracy you’ll get out of it is dependent on the accuracy of what you put in. That information includes: • Desired Plant density (plants per unit area): This can be determined by working with an agronomist or looking for appropriate information from other sources.

• Germination rate (%): This is sometimes supplied by the seed company marketing the seed. If not, a simple home germination test could be conducted to determine the germination rate. If you are not sure how to do a germination test, some laboratories within Alberta offer such services for a fee.

• Emergence mortality (%): This is also sometimes supplied by the seed company. This information is critically important in determining the plant count in the field (and the other several factors influenced by plant count such as yield).

• Row spacing: Most producers know

the row spacing of their equipment. If not, you can request this information in case the services of a custom-seeder will be used.

• Thousand kernel weight (TKW), or simply the weight of a thousand seeds: You can read about the importance of TKW and how to calculate it here.

There are conditions which may necessitate a higher seeding rate than typically used. A higher seeding rate in areas of a field with a known high wild oat population has been shown to reduce the wild oat population through increased competition. Higher seeding rates can reduce the number of tillers, shortening the time to maturity and, in some cases, ensuring more uniform maturity. When germination is low, seed size is large, seeding is late or when seeding in high moisture areas, and higher seeding rate could be a beneficial agronomic practice.

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Presort Calf & Yearling Sale Regular Slaughter Cows & Bulls To Follow

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