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January - Vermilion Tigers U13 Standoff in home tournament against Lacombe Rockets. February - Charlene Young’s house burns after she set fire to it to prevent drug squatters. March - The Phung family on their 35th anniversary. April - With the announcement by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #11 that maintenance of the Lt. Col. Craig Armoury building was no longer a financially viable option for them, concern for the building’s closure after April, surfaced. May - This rider came high out of the chute at the Wainwright Stampede. JuneThis rider came high out of the chute at the Wainwright Stampede. July - From left, Team Vermilion riders Craig Brown, Scott Webb, Bernie Webb, Joe Zeller, and Darren Bratrud raised funds for Cancer. August - Mini chuckwagon racer at the Vermilion Fair was giving it her all. September - First wind turbine Installed in Central Alberta by Enel. From left: Cristian Gomez, Justin Williams, Sandy Lee, Jeff Pimer, and Don Morgan. October - Mead Building Grand Opening. From left, Lora Pillipow, Deputy Minister of Advanced Education; Honourable Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, Associate Minister of Status of Women; Garth Rowswell, MLA Vermilion- Lloydminster-Wainwright; Adam Waterman, Lakeland’s board of governor’s chairperson; Andi Raisa Tabusalla, vice president of internal for Lakeland’s Students’ Association; Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO; Dr. Todd Sumner, vice president of academic and research; Georgina Altman, vice president of external relations and infrastructure; and Geoff Brown, dean of the School Agricultural Sciences. November - A portrait from Cora DeVos ‘s Gold Series featured in the Vancouver Maritime Museum. December - Knights of Columbus Shopping Spree winner. From left, Paul Corbiere, Larry Bingham, James T McLaughlin, Michelle McLaughlin, David Jee, Angela Yarmuch, Jarek Voltner, and Jack Seewalt.

Angela Mouly Reporter

The Vermilion and District Housing Foundation welcomed a new CAO, Carrie Kohlruss in March 2022.

Kohlruss approached Town Council on December 20, to ask for a letter supporting their bid for proposal to get a DSL4 and 4D (Dementia care) grant for Vermilion.

She had previously approached the County of Vermilion River as well and will be submitting her bid on January 6.

The community has been seeking this level of care (between the lodge and long term care) since the prior group of council members were elected and she said by the time residents are assessed they have often surpassed the existing DSL3 level, putting them in communities farther away.

Currently, she said the Lodge has 14 vacant beds out of 86, while DSL3 (the lower level) has 10 empty beds out of 40.

“Vermilion is considered one of the priority communities within Alberta. Currently we are working on a proposal

of ideas of where we could get funding to build a new facility attached to our building. Because of the way it was built, the standards today do not allow that to be used as DSL4. There was a lot of effort put forth and unfortunately it did not come to fruition,” said Kohlruss. “We are competing with about 20 other communities for a grant for our DSL4. If we were to get it, it would involve a demolition and a build, but just a reminder that nothing has been approved.”

Councillor Robert Snow said they looked into the most feasible and cheapest spot and said, “We really want SL4 in our community, but it will also come at a cost to our community.”

Kohlruss said the DSL3 area would likely go the way of the dinosaur and if so, they have discussed a few options as the space would still be required to generate revenue. If they develop an DSL4 area down the road, they will still need the same amount of staff as well as an RN, LPN, and likely a bit of extra dietary staff and extra housekeeping staff.

Councillor Joshua Rayment said in the future if the impact to the town ends up being higher than the amount requisitioned, he’d like to have the opportunity to say no to the project. The motion for the letter of support to request the funding from the provincial government for senior level 4 care was carried.

Prior to being the CAO, Kohlruss was the CFO for nine months. Having went to high school in Kitscoty, she was previously from Lloydminster and moved to Vermilion in October.

“I love it; it’s been wonderful. I know Vermilion well, and our main street is so beautiful, and people are super friendly here. I feel like I’ve been here forever,” said Kohlruss.

When she began at the Vermilion Valley Lodge, she immediately enjoyed the whole atmosphere working with the seniors and said, “I love seeing their smiling faces everyday and being able to serve them; listen to their needs and wants and try to make this a better place for them.”

Their most recent COVID lock down, she said was less stringent than the

Snow Removal

Angela Mouly Reporter

The snow removal and ice control policy for 2023 was up for review during the Vermilion Town Council meeting on December 20. Being such a hot topic, the current and ongoing snow removal had the Town subject to dozens of comments online and enough phone calls to make the mayor want to change his number.

In addition, two members of the community added it to their list of complaints during public commentary. Director of Infrastructure and Plan -

ning, Ben McPhee said the last time the policy was reviewed was 2019.

Changes included the map designating priority roads (which allow access to schools, healthcare, and fire hall, etc.), 15 cm accumulation for some routes and 30 cm for others, details on when staff are called in on the weekend, windrows being left in the middle of streets up to 24 hours that would be completed the following day, and a new snow removal reserve.

McPhee said, “The potential reserve would accumulate from years where there is left over, and when there is a

deficit it would be utilized. This policy is used with discretion as there are ever changing circumstances such as snow that has blown not accumulated, etc.”

Currently he estimated that they had only completed approximately 40 – 50 per cent of the town’s residential areas, as when another snowfall occurs, they pause and return to priority routes before resuming their original plan.

Councillor Martin asked if they were following the current policy, and McPhee said they were not as they’ve

previous ones.

“I want to wish the entire community and all our families a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Moving forward in 2023 I’m hoping we can have some good news we can share with the community. It will be better than ever here at the Lodge and DSL in 2023,” said Kohlruss.

had budget constraints and were trying to balance first part of year and get through the rest of the year. Councillor Pulyk wanted to review the policy every year and re-examine the priorities.

“We know the downtown core around Christmas time is a busy time for the businesses, and by having the roads cleared prior to Christmas making it a ‘Priority 1’ for those two weeks – even on the weekends, or to have as a footnote. I just see that this has been an ongoing concern. It’s a catch 22, because people want low taxes. I’m thinking just some tweaking of the priorities for downtown. In January things in retail slow down,” said Pulyk. “I thought that the time frame you provided seems a bit long; perhaps consider shortening some of those days up. Within 21 days it seems a bit long, for Priority 1- within 5 business days, Priority 2 within 7 business days. There is a cost to shortening it, but we’ve got a high expectation in our community. If we can’t I understand, but I think that should be looked at.”

Carrie Kohlruss. Photo submitted

Continued from page 2

Councillor Martin suggested they add a communication policy that show how communication is done and who is in charge so that councillors are in the loop and can also direct people properly. Having spoken with residents, he said some had called in to the town, but didn’t know who they’d spoken to.

Councillor Snow also wanted to review things annually and asked if they have

any data how many years were surplus vs. deficit. McPhee said he would have to get back to him.

McPhee also noted they average 1 km to 1.2 km per day which does not include places they are able to use the grader pushing snow into ditches (on those days or places he said they can get extra done). To get the whole town done he said it would take about a month and a half working full business

days without any priority routes being re-done.

“It’s not my job to direct Mr. McPhee on snow removal; this is an administrative thing. We have top notch now removal and I don’t think it’s fair to compare other municipalities, but if you bring up comparisons I want to hear which communities,” said Mayor Throndson. “I think 30 cm is high; we just had a 15 cm dump and it had a lot

VES Grade 3 – 6 Concert

Angela Mouly Reporter

The Vermilion Elementary School’s Grade 3-6 students performed a ‘Jingle Jury’ Christmas Concert at Lakeland College on December 22.

Several carols were intertwined with scenes of a grade six play and Vice Principal, Adrienne Joa said, “This is one of those nights that is all about community and memories.”

Students in the play’s court room examined Jim Dandy’s offence of missing holiday spirit in the community of Candy Cane. Throughout the play, they

shared ways to obtain Christmas spirit including decorating a tree, singing carols, spending time with family, or baking cookies.

In addition, the Kindergarten-Grade 2 concert was held on December 21. Even in the drastically cold temperatures, many families enjoyed both concerts.

“Thank you family and friends for joining us. We are so proud of all of the students. Special thanks to the staff who helped coordinate. From the staff and students, Merry Christmas,” said Joa.

of people in trouble. We have dropped the ball this fall but it’s going to pick up - we may see some contractors soon. We are doing the best possible job out there.”

A motion was carried to table the discussion until the next meeting on January 17. If you have concerns regarding 2023 snow removal in Vermilion you can contact the town office at 780-853-5358 prior to the meeting.

Photos Angela Mouly

Lorna Hamilton Editor

Each year so many people use New Year as a time to reflect on the past year and decide to make lifechanging decisions such as New Years’ Resolutions. I am not a resolution type person because I know I will not follow through. How many years have I said this is it I’m gonna toss down the cigarettes and each year it lasts a couple of days and I have lost the battle, so why face the disappointment in myself? This year my goal will be to reduce the number of cigarettes I usually have each day (grant it, I am not a heavy smoker to start with

A Time For Reflection

so if I can reduce by even one a day I will be happy). My next goal will be to try and balance my work life and my personal life a little better than I have over the years. I have said this pretty much every year, but this year I need to do it. Having a ticked-off hubby because my face is always in the computer is not a good thing for a happy life. Don’t get me wrong he completely understands the necessity of the time I spend working but would appreciate it if I could pull myself away for an afternoon on the weekend, LOL. My next goal is to lose 2 pounds per month, it may not seem like a lot but for someone like me who struggles horribly with their weight two pounds a month would be an accomplishment!!! When setting

your New Year goals set realistic goals instead of unrealistic goals. Why disappoint yourself if you don’t meet them?

Looking back on this year I realize I have a lot to be appreciative of, I have a wonderful family who I adore. I have had the opportunity to spend copious amounts of time with our little grandson (who brings so much joy to my life), I have my Mom living with us, and while sometimes we don’t always see eye to eye (very rarely), I love having her with us!

While COVID hasn’t left us as a community thank goodness the severity of it has decreased drastically and we can spend a normal holiday season together this year. But remember if you feel sick

Holiday Get Togethers

Dawn Hames Columnist

Come on over, we are having a little “get together.” It’s a common phrase during the holidays, between Christmas and New Year’s Day. Now that we are free to gather, many friends and families

Summer Village of Island Lake Request for Proposals Development Officer Position

will be making the most of it. It’s time to make time. Getting together with family and friends is a type of food for the soul. A get together can be as simple as chips and dip, or a platter of cheese, sausage, pickles and crackers. But it can also be more: appetizers & beverages, tea, coffee and desserts, cocktails and charcuterie or a whole meal. Living on the prairies we know how to make our own fun. It’s a great way to celebrate life and each other. Wishing everyone a super 2023.

The Summer Village of Island Lake, being Alberta’s largest Summer Village and located on the shores of Island Lake, approximately 20 minutes northwest of the Town of Athabasca, is looking for an outgoing and enthusiastic individual to fulfill a part time contract position for a Development Officer services within our community.

Please visit online for complete details and instructions: www.islandlake.ca

Summer Village of Island Lake, Box 8, Alberta Beach, T0E 0A0 svislandlake@wildwillowenterprises.com

Position will be open until January 12, 2023 or a suitable candidate is found

Summer Village of Island Lake Request for Proposals Development Officer Position

The Summer Village of Island Lake, being Alberta’s largest Summer Village and located on the shores of Island Lake, approximately 20 minutes northwest of the Town of Athabasca, is looking for an outgoing and enthusiastic individual to fulfill a part time contract position for a Development Officer services within our community.

Please visit online for complete details and instructions: www.islandlake.ca

Summer Village of Island Lake, Box 8, Alberta Beach, T0E 0A0 svislandlake@wildwillowenterprises.com

Position will be open until January 12, 2023 or a suitable candidate is found

BRUSCHETTA TOPPING

2 cups tomato, seeded and diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large clove garlic (finely chopped)

1/4 cup onion (finely chopped)

1 cup cucumber diced 1/2 cup black olive chopped (optional)

1 teaspoon basil, or 6 fresh basil leaves torn

Combine all the ingredients. Serve with crackers or toasted baguette slices with Garlic Butter

BRUSCHETTA

Slices of baguette bread

1/4 cup butter

2 cloves of garlic – pressed or finely chopped

Sprinkle of parmesan cheese Sprinkle of garlic powder or salt Press the garlic through a garlic press.

Combine the garlic and the butter together. Butter both sides of the bread with the butter garlic mixture. Sprinkle one side with parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Broil on one side for approximately 3 minutes or until slightly browned. Turn the bread over and brown on the other side.

Serve with Bruschetta topping.

SHRIMP DIP

you should still be careful and stay home. What I have taken away from this year is always be thankful, always be considerate of those around you in the community, and always offer a helping hand.

Whatever you have taken from this past year, remember to be kind to yourself when it comes to your New Year resolutions, look back on the past year and feel proud of whatever you have accomplished in your life, even if you didn’t meet all your goals.

From everyone here at the Vermilion Voice, we wish you a very happy and prosperous new year and we look forward to serving you in 2023. Happy New Year everyone and please don’t drive impaired!!

1 can of shrimp, drained

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion

1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Combine all the ingredients except the shrimp. Drain the shrimp and pat dry with a paper towel, to prevent the liquid around the shrimp from making the dip too liquidly. Stir in the shrimp. Serve chilled, with a spoon and your favorite crackers or melba toast.

File photo.

Craig Baird Columnist

Vermilion was only a few years old in 1914, but it is safe to say that the community was absolutely booming that year.

Before the First World War hit later that year, things were looking up for everyone and most believed the good times would last. While there would be hiccups, the community would continue to thrive throughout the rest of the decade.

So, what was happening in Vermilion in the first part of that year?

By that year, Vermilion was boasting a population of about 1,200 people

A Glimpse At Vermilion In 1914

and it had a power plant that powered over 1,000 lights in the community, as well as a telephone system and a school that cost $40,000 to build and had five teachers inside. The government had also built a $50,000 immigration hall to handle the influx of immigrants to the area.

As a distributing centre, Vermilion was doing good business. Over $175,000 in farming implements had been sold to farmers in the area and the money orders going through the post office amounted to $72,000, which included the purchase of almost 500 cars for locals.

The brick factory in town was able to produce 1.5 million bricks each year, and the flour mill produced upwards of 6,000 barrels of flour, at a rate of 125 barrels

per day.

At the time, Vermilion also had three large department stores, four general stores, two hardware stores, two furniture stores, two tinsmiths, one machine ship, one harness shop and two blacksmith shops.

The Craig Brothers department store in town was also one of the largest general stores found west of Winnipeg and east of Vancouver.

As for the shipment of livestock, that doubled from 1913 to 1914 and one buyer of $150 cows made $700 in profit, which amounts to about $17,649 today.

The shipment of hogs was up 30 per cent over the previous year as well.

For dairy, 10,636 pounds of milk were produced in 1914 in the area.

Prairie Wool

Helen Row Toews Columnist Oh, Christmas Tree!

I work in a small country school. Because of the children I’m with daily, it’s a great place to be at Christmas. Kids are filled with anticipation, innocent wonder, and the joy of the season.

The other day, while enjoying a moment of rest in the staff room, our school principal shared a humorous memory of Christmas trees gone wrong. Funny how it’s always the bad experiences we recall the best. Since it’s the time of year for such reminiscence, I thought I’d share one of mine with you. Hope it brings you a smile.

Snow swirled outside the frosty window panes of my childhood home, and dark clouds hung ominously in the sky. It was the year 1975. A winter storm had raged

the night before, but our old cook stove blazed within, and we were toasty warm as our family met in the kitchen for breakfast. Today we were to drive into the nearby town and purchase a tree.

Brother Bill and I were excited.

“We aren’t going to get a Christmas tree this year,” Dad suddenly stated over his porridge bowl. He held up a hand to silence our protests. “Buying a tree is like throwing good money to the wind. I’ve got a better idea.”

With long faces, Bill and I stared at one another. What did he mean by ‘no tree’?

It was unthinkable!

After eating, we watched as Dad pulled on his heavy work clothes and bent to pick up an evil-looking hand-saw he’d left beside his boots. Wordlessly, he flung open the door and set off through the deep snow toward a line of firs near the barn.

Before long, he reappeared, dragging what looked like a tall tree behind him.

ank You

A special Thank You to all the donors for your generosity. It is very gratifying that you were so generous under difficult times. We delivered toys and gift cards to 85 families this year. A special thank you goes to The Bargain Shop for sponsoring the toy drive and the schools, drug stores and MainStreet Hardware for collecting toys. Thanks also to The Ag Society for the tables; ATCO for the use of their building for the toy sorting; and the car dealers for the delivery vans. And a big thank you to all the volunteers and to the businesses that accepted the White Collection Boxes. On behalf of all the families that received support this year, a great big

Breathlessly I turned to tell little brother Bill. He was not impressed.

“That’s no tree,” he said dryly, clambering onto a chair to look. “It’s a fat branch.”

And so it was. Proudly Dad dragged it into the house and, with no small effort, strapped it to the living room wall using several yards of binder twine and a box of nails.

How—festive.

Later that evening, feeling pleased with himself, Dad proposed a toast.

“Let’s celebrate with eggnog,” he said, rubbing his hands together with invisible soap.

No doubt about it, the man was on a roll. Earlier that day, he’d happily presented Mom with a blender, a pre-Christmas gift.

She’d been absolutely thrilled! What woman wouldn’t? (Our family may be cheap, but sarcasm’s free).

Dad tugged the shiny new appliance from its box, fitted the glass container into

Building permits were also up with $35,000 worth of buildings erected over the course of the previous year. Today, that would amount to $882,000.

With money coming in from the CNR, amounting to $600, the town was going to make a park next to the train depot, lay cement sidewalks in the business section and put down boardwalks on the other streets.

Contact Craig at craig@canadaehx. com

Support Craig by donating at https:// www.buymeacoffee.com/craigU

Listen to his podcasts Canadian History Ehx, Canada’s Great War, From John to Justin, Pucks and Cups and Canada: A Yearly Journey on all podcast platforms.

position, and began adding the ingredients he’d found listed in an included recipe. With a flourish, he pressed the ON button, the machine sprang to life, and the assembled family broke into spontaneous applause. (We were simple folk and easily amused).

As our eagerly anticipated beverage spun to a halt, Dad handed out glasses, grasped the handle, and hoisted it on high.

KERSPLASH!

The bottom portion of the jug and its contents gushed forth, spraying the floor, the dog, and our feet with ice-cold eggnog. Unfortunately, Dad hadn’t tightened the bottom.

And so, as we gathered around our scrawny Christmas branch that evening and gazed at the brightly wrapped gifts shoved against the wall, we raised celebratory glasses of water to clink together with joy.

After all, it’s not about the tree, the gifts, or the food—it’s about love.

COUNTY OF MINBURN NO. 27 Oil/Calcium

PRESS RELEASE

Dust Control Program

on Roads in Front of Farmland Sites

BUDGET PROCESS

Dust control applications will now be accepted until May 15, 2022 (deadline) as per County Policy OP 9001-01, Dust Control with Calcium and Oil on Roads in Front of Yard Sites.

The Municipal Government Act (MGA) requires that each year, Council adopt an operating and capital budget. Budgets are a plan of the revenue and expenditures that take place over the course of the year. Each department prepares a budget required to provide the services and programs determined by Council through bylaws and policies. During November and December, budgets are prepared with the goal to adopt prior to the end of the year.

If you have any questions, please call the Operations Office at (780)632-2082, Ext. 3.

NEWS RELEASE

(December 19, 2022) Approved 2023

Budget

Applications are available at the County of Minburn Website: www.minburncounty.ab.ca

Following a Budget meeting on December 7th Council directed administration to bring forward the 2023 operational and capital budget estimates for approval at the December 19th regular meeting.

Council approved a sensible and disciplined budget for 2023 keeping tax rates competitive while continuing to fund important investments in infrastructure. With no tax rate increase proposed for 2023 for all categories of properties; only those properties which have experienced an increase in assessment would incur a slight change in the amount of taxes they would pay. The tax impact on each taxpayer will be di erent depending on the assessed property value change for that taxpayer.

“I am very proud and con dent in the interim budget Council has passed. It is a bold strategy that announces the County of Minburn is investment ready and looking forward to the future.” stated Reeve Roger Konieczny. Reeve Konieczny added, “Council’s goal was to provide the same level of service without increasing taxes in 2023 and Council has been able to accomplish just that.”

Council’s goal was accomplished by a number of strategies including use of previous year’s surplus, utilization of reserves instead of taxes, maximizing government grants and reducing or eliminating costs across several departments.

Prudent budget decisions ensure the County remains in a strong scal position and helps maintain a reasonable tax rate now and in the future to encourage and realize growth opportunities.

The 2023 operating and capital budgets combined include a total of $25,313,340 in revenue and an equal amount in expenditures.

Braxton Hoare Columnist

dearMoon is a lunar exploration mission led by SpaceX, a private aerospace company founded by Elon Musk. The mission aims to send a crew of artists, entrepreneurs, and other private citizens on a circumlunar voyage around the moon in 2023. The trip will give passengers a chance to really take in the view of earth and the moon from space.

Billionaire Funds Space Tourism

The dearMoon Mission is intended to be the first lunar tourism mission in history, and Maezawa (the eccentric billionaire funding the mission) has stated that he wants to bring artists, musicians, and other creative individuals with him on the journey to inspire them to create works about the experience. Maezawa himself is an art collector and hopes that the experience of traveling to the Moon will be a source of inspiration for the creative individuals he plans to bring with him. The mission is currently slated for 2023, and the group of artists have already been announced for the trip. The most notable passenger is Steve Aoki, an American DJ who just recently toured across the world, and even did a

show in the West Edmonton Mall.

The spacecraft for the mission will be supplied by SpaceX, utilizing their Crew Dragon rocket, a reusable spacecraft designed to ferry astronauts to and from the International Space Station. The Crew Dragon will be launched atop a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket, which is a heavy-lift launch vehicle that is capable of launching payloads of up to 63,800 kg (140,660 lbs) into orbit.

The Crew Dragon spacecraft is equipped with a number of features to ensure the safety and comfort of the crew during the mission. These features include life support systems, a pressurized cabin, and windows that provide a view of the surrounding space. The spacecraft also has a hatch that can be opened to allow

the crew to conduct spacewalks, if necessary.

The mission will last for about a week, and the Crew Dragon spacecraft will orbit the moon several times before returning to Earth. During the mission, the crew will have the opportunity to conduct a variety of scientific experiments and take part in a number of cultural and artistic activities.

Pillow Case Project

very considerate of our three grandsons who served mass for their Grandpa.

I’ve been so very fortunate to have the love & support of my family during this difficult time.

Thank you from, Ivy Dyjur, my children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In Loving Memory

In Loving Memory

Bert Duncan

December 27, 2008

But all we could do was just stand by. When the time came, we suffered too, For you never deserved what you went through. God took your hand and we had to part, He eased your pain, but broke out hearts.

If you could have spoken, before you died, These are the words you would have replied: This life for me has truly passed.

I have loved you all, to the very last. Weep not for me, but courage take. And love one another, for my sake. So when we saw you sleeping, So peaceful, free from pain.

We could not wish you back to suffer that again.

Lovingly Remembered by husband; Glen, children; Brooklyn, Carter & Hayden, Dad; David Larmour

In Loving Memory

Frederica Usenik

July 18, 1969 - January 3, 2009

“She was an angel in the book of life, too beautiful for earth.”

May the road rise to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sunshine warm upon your face And the rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

Death leaves a heartache, no one can heal.

Luv leaves a memory, no one can steal.

Loving

We can't have old days back when we were together. But secret tears and loving thoughts will be with us forever.

Tenderly we treasure the past, with memories that will always last.

Luv Anne and Bob

you always, forgetting you never.

Luv Anne and Bob

On Monday, December 19 the Vermilion Sherrifs braved the frigid temperatures to collect and deliver the Vermilion Quilter Guild Christmas pillowcase presents for the Long-term, Assisted Living, the Lodge and FOCUS. Pictured members of the Sheriffs at the Lodge.

Photo submitted

Letter To The Editor

Submitted

Dear Mayor, Council and Town Administration, I was in attendance for the Town Budget Forum that happened on November 8th, 2022. This meeting was dedicated to ask questions, raise concerns and interact with Town Council and Administration in regards to the Town of Vermilion Budg et. I must mention that Council was very inviting and genuinely wanted to hear community members input and concerns. They really do care. On the other hand, you would think that the new CAO (Chief Administration Officer) of Vermilion would be more involved with the meeting. I was there for just over an hour and he just stood there with his arms crossed, examining the room. Odd. If I were the CAO of the town, you bet my bottom I would be trying to make an effort to talk to every single town of Vermilion citizen that walked through those doors. Since there has been no answers from the Mayor or Council, I followed up to see if there was any progress and I was told that they are waiting to hear back from Administration. I thought the citizens of Vermilion should know what questions and concerns I brought to the table that evening that have gone unanswered.

You spent 1 million dollars a few years ago and now you’re BORROWING 2.4 million dollars at 8% interest on Broadband Fibre Optic. Why are we the only town in the area that signed up for this eastern company? Why are we forking out this kind of money when we have Rogers, Telus, Shaw, and MCSnet installing internet in other towns for FREE such as Vilna, Elk Point, Lloydminster, Mannville, Bonnyville, Wainwright, Marwayne, Vegreville and St.Paul. These companies have the money and customers to keep rates reasonable and not costing municipalities money to profit their businesses upfront. We CANNOT blame the new Council as only the Economical Developer, CAO, Finance Director and 1 returning Council member knew about the cost of this project. Even these 4 thought they could use MSI money and for those of you who don’t know what MSI money is, that is the local access fee paid to Vermilion which is charged

on your power bill, which is supposed to go to road maintenance, new equipment, community groups, and infrastructure maintenance and not for internet that other companies would put in for free. So, now how is the town going to pay this loan down? It is going to be us as tax payers. Maybe it will come out of our road improvement tax or is it going to be our franchise fees that we pay every month on our power and gas bills, which takes away from other things this town needs.

In regards to the Broadband bylaw, it is stated on the Government of Alberta MDA that the timeline for passing a borrowing bylaw has to be followed in this order. I shouldn’t have to remind the council but it goes -advertising week 1 -advertising week 2 -start of 15 day petition period -second and third readings -valid bylaw 30 days after bylaw has been passed

How has the bylaw passed on October 18th when legally you can not do 2nd and 3rd reading until November 3rd. Do you realize this can be challenged in court?? To top it off, when I brought this situation up to the Mayor and a Council member, they directed me to the Director of Finance and he didn’t even want to listen to me. He got defensive, wrote down my name and number and said he would look into it and follow up with me. Just as expected, no followup 6 weeks later. You look silly not giving me the time of day and clearly not a man of his word. It’s not hard to follow up with a community member.

The town bought a zoom boom which is a machine that assists employees to hang flower pots and decor for $55,000. The machine is only used once a month if that. Was it necessary to purchase this when the town has always supported local businesses that have the equipment already and qualifications required to operate? Instead, you’ve wasted this money and now employees have to get certified on top of yearly inspections. Where did this money come from?

In regards to the garbage bins, the town might need to reconsider the size of garbage bin your

supplying to us. As a family of 3, 90% of the time the lid to my garbage bin doesn’t close. Refusing service for something we overpay for in this town is a bit ridiculous. Also, why did you remove the large green bins that were scattered over town?

Public works closes at 4pm and its very inconvenient for citizens to drop off lawn clippings and other yard waste when the average person works till 5pm.

The town preaches to support local businesses. Why are you not following through with what is being preached for example:

⁃Stadium lighting for the ice surface. You could have used multiple local businesses but used Amazon instead.

⁃Board advertisements for the stadium and flower pot sponsorship signs. You used to support Decals and Signs, now you spend our tax money in a different city.

⁃The cedar mulch around town was purchased from out of town instead of locally. Why are you not spending our tax dollars locally and putting that money back into the community?

We all know about the flower pots in 2021. Kevin Lucas who was the Rec Director at the time and is now the CAO of the town had a grand idea to try and “save” money and purchased flower bulbs, flower equipment through Amazon and started the growing process in the zamboni room which had very poor growing conditions which led to the town having to purchase more flowers as the other ones died. My question to CAO is what happened to all the expensive equipment that was undoubtedly purchased with tax payers money and what are the plans with it?

The Town of Vermilion office expanded so everyone could work under one roof for town residents. We now have 2 workers at the Regional Centre and 1 at the old Public Works shop. We have an assistant CAO, assistant to Director of Finance and an assistant to the Director of Public Works Manager. We never used to have all of these employees before. How many of these people work from the office 5 days a week and how many work from home? How many Town Office employees

Joe Van Peteghen

actually live in Vermilion and surrounding area that support our businesses and pay taxes in this town? Why do we need all these positions when we’ve never had them previously? Why was the Economical Development Officer promoted to a Manager position and who’s paying the $17,000 salary increase?

The last couple of years since our new CAO, Director of Finance, we also have a new Director of Public Works, new Director of Parks and Rec, new HR person, and a new “used to be” Public Works foreman now titled as a Manager. So we now have 2 managers doing the same job in Public Works, 1 less person doing hands on work like Keith used to as a working foreman - that’s another thing, how many people actually knew that Keith retired as a Public Works foreman? The town didn’t even recognize him after 30 years of service properly like they have in the past for long serving employees, but that’s our new CAO and Finance people for Vermilion. They don’t seem to care about long serving workers as they are not even from Vermilion. That brings me into another topic, some of you may not know, in the last 2 years, there have been 3 people let go and 2 of them have been paid out because they had no grounds to let them go and there is one still ongoing for wrongful dismissal and we are still waiting for that out come which is going to court and is costing taxpayers money as well. Some people should be let go up top for making some decisions that don’t help the town of Vermilion taxpayers.

MAYOR AND COUNCIL YOU DO HOLD THE CARDS ON THAT and its funny looking back 2 or 3 years all these problems have happened plus more. Get a hold of the Mayor and Town Council and get some answers before things get worse in this lovely town and ask for some action to be taken on our top people that run this town.

Enough is enough. It’s time to take accountability and start cleaning house and putting our money back into our community.

Sincerely, Alex Pashulka

Truly we are broken-hearted to be in this place and this time to comment on the passing of Joe. As I look to friends and family here, we can see he was well-respected and well-loved. He was a warm and funny person and to say we will miss him is so insu cient to describe what our feelings are at this moment. Joe was born at home in Leoville Saskatchewan in 1951. He was 5th in a family of seven. The family moved around a bit eventually settling on a homestead near Hythe Alberta. Joe went to school in Hythe and found work in the area. He did many things: worked for proctor and gamble, operated equipment, drove a truck, and eventually started his own plumbing business which ran successfully for 20 years until he left Vermilion. Curious about ying he quali ed for his private pilot’s license at 19. Joe met Tami in 1976 and they were married in 1979. They moved to Clandonald so Joe could go to a pre-apprentice program in plumbing at Lakeland college and spent two years living at the farm of Lionel and Emily Van Peteghen in a very small trailer. Jade was born in 1978, Sarah was born in 1980 and the family moved to Vermilion where Casey arrived in 1984. When Joe was in his fties, he found work in Inuvik as he had always wanted to explore the north. This led him to volunteering for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith. This was a di cult business as the people in charge could not understand why a fully quali ed plumber would want to work in a volunteer capacity. had to y with a minimum of tools from small community to small community scrounging for parts around town and more likely the dump. In addition to this, Joe worked for the Rotary club in Mexico alongside Joe Schrijvers and his wife Jeannie. Joe loved the outdoors. If he could have lived outside year-round, that would have been his greatest dream. His motto for the family was, ‘Don’t let the weather get in the way of your life.’ Tami remembers being in a tent on the Peace River wrapped in 3 sleeping bags while Joe cheerfully cooked supper in the pouring rain and they have photos of the family ice shing at 20 below. Anything that could be done outside Joe would do berry picking, mushroom nding, bird watching, hiking, cross country skiing, downhill skiing, running, biking, ice shing, slow pitch, foraging (picking up roadkill), canoeing, working. He was proud of his Métis heritage and traditions. Once Joe made a skijoring out t out of a lawn chair and an old pair of cross-country skis and Luke, Erin and Lauren had fun being pulled around the yard by the dog and each other.

Some people might not know that Joe could not swim as an adult because there were not decent places to learn near Hythe. So, when he was in his late thirties, he started taking lessons and also earned his bronze medallion and bronze cross. Lake swimming was another challenge he took on and I remember him resting and hanging on to the canoe in Whitney Lake trying to calm himself enough to carry on. Success in the swimming led him to many triathlons, on his own and in the company of Jade and Sarah. Joe also raced in cross country events the longest being the Saskaloppet in La Ronge Saskatchewan, an event that included many kilometers in cold weather and an overnight sleep in a nearby snowbank. Two years ago, Joe took a beekeeping course in Edmonton and set up 2 hives near Jade’s farm. He was only stung twice and each time his face swelled up, but the honey was worth it. Joe was also a breastfeeding expert and grief counsellor. He told Tami when a funeral would happen, a lot of people would come and go, and toilets would over ow. He would be called in and since everyone was gone by then he would sit and have a cup of tea with the bereaved (usually the widow) and chat about the one who had passed on. Joe and Tami did not get to travel as much as they would have wished, however they did do a bike tour of Holland, saw Flanders Fields in Belgium, and spent time in London. In 2011, they spent a month in Greece with Joe driving not only around Greece but directly through Athens, a feat you wouldn’t wish on AJ Foyt. Tami and Joe were in Mexico many times, Cuba, San Francisco, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. And of course, camped most summers in Saskatchewan.

Joe loved any kind of music and spent time trying to learn the ukulele. He played with a group class in Edmonton a few times and was coached by Sarah. When Tami was 64, he played and sang ‘When I’m 64’ from the Beatles. When Sarah was 5, he attended Suzuki lessons with her, but the family says she outplayed him quite quickly. He loved listening to his children play and sing. Whether it was jazz, classical, or folk, Joe wanted to hear everything. He was a long time two-stepper and generally a great dancer and took ballroom dancing when it was o ered in the community and salsa lessons in Edmonton.

Joe was quite the cook; he began cooking when Tami went to university, and he would take meals to Casey at the coop. He became an adept wa e maker even learning how to fold egg whites into the batter. He loved pies and home-made jelly and there were quite few years when he would pick cranberries, and can it be saying that stinky feet smell was the best in the world. Breadmaking was another skill he acquired, and buns were his favourite accompanied by the above stinky feet jelly. One time he put the bread in the oven to rise, went downtown and forgot about it. He was quite disgusted with himself when this happened. He could make stew, spaghetti sauce, biscuits, mu ns, and learned how to make sausage. Joe could x anything and could MacGyver his way through anything. He was an expert mechanic and when stymied by some problems, he would go on YouTube and gure it out. He attempted to x the regulator on his oxygen with superglue and was very annoyed when this didn’t work, and he had to pay for a new one. When I read this to you, it seems such a poor description of someone who was friendly to everyone, who wanted to help as much as he could, who adored his children and grandchildren, who adored his wife, who accomplished so much in his life. Joe wanted to do so many things and for the most part he did them. He said to Tami once, ‘I’ve done everything I wanted to do in life.’ The family will miss him so much. It’s impossible to believe he’s gone

Thank You

The family would like to thank everyone for the food, owers, gift baskets, masses and donations to 2nd Chance Trail

distributing funeral cards. We really appreciate all of the condolences, kindness and prayers.

Jade, Edward, Luke, Erin and Lauren McCormack

Ride. Thank you as well to Karen and Creech’s Funeral Home for printing and

As 2022 comes to an end, we look back on our triumphs and troubles, our success and failures, our gains and our losses. This past year has been a tumultuous one.

It’s brought regime changes, famines, landscape altering storms and unforeseen fluctuations in the global economy. But it’s also brought us new champions to admire, advancements in science, medical miracles and, ultimately, hope for a future our children can thrive in.

Through it all, we’ve been proud to be your number one source for local news and to share the stories that shape our lives and our community. As we look towards the new year, it’s with the absolute certainty that we’ll continue to be there for you, delivering the stories that matter to us all.

May 2023 bring us achievements and victories that we can share with each other and with the world.

It’s

again! As the countdown to the new year begins, it’s time to reflect on all the amazing events of the past 12 months and set some seriously exciting goals for the year ahead. The past year has been filled with challenges, but it’s also brought about some truly impressive moments of resilience, growth, and connection.

One thing that’s been top of mind for many of us this past year is the importance of taking care of ourselves and each other. The pandemic has reminded us to prioritize self-care and to support one another through tough times. As we ring in the new year, let’s

vow to continue prioritizing our mental and physical health by setting aside time for self-care, seeking support when needed, and practicing gratitude. Setting goals or resolutions is another way to kick off the new year with a blast. These can be big or small, and they don’t have to be overly ambitious. It’s important to choose goals that are meaningful and achievable, and to be patient with ourselves as we work towards them. Whether it’s setting a goal to get more exercise, learn a new skill, or spend more time with loved ones, the new year is a great opportunity to make positive changes in our

lives.

Another way to celebrate the new year is to spend time with loved ones. This can be in person or virtually, but either way it’s a great opportunity to connect and reflect on the past year together. Whether it’s hosting a small gathering or connecting with friends and family online, spending time with the people we care about is a surefire way to start the new year off with a bang.

As we look towards the future, let’s remember that change is constant and it’s okay to embrace it. The new year is a fresh start and an opportunity to set some seriously exciting intentions for

the months ahead. Let’s make the most of it and bring on the good vibes! Here’s to a healthy and happy new year!

new year

New Year’s Eve Traditions From Around The World

country

variety of

from enjoying lavish, multicourse meals to watching the Times Square ball drop on TV and popping champagne at the stroke of midnight. Here’s a look at how people in other countries observe New Year’s Eve.

Brazil

You won’t see extravagant costumes at this Brazilian celebration. Instead, people wear white to symbolize peace and prosperity for the year ahead.

Denmark

Just before midnight, it’s tradition for Danes to stand on chairs. This is so they can jump off when the clock strikes 12 to symbolize leaping into the new year.

Estonia

Since seven is a lucky number, Estonians make sure to eat seven meals on New Year’s Eve. This is said to provide the strength of seven men for the year to come.

Japan

Across the country, bells are rung at Buddhist temples 108 times before midnight. This number symbolizes worldly desires, and the practice is intended to chase them away.

Philippines

Among Filipinos, circles are said

to bring luck. In addition to wearing polka dot pat terns, it’s tradition to eat 12 round fruits — one for each month — to attract good fortune.

South Korea

In seaside towns across the country, people gather on the

beach to watch the first sunrise of the year. It’s said that if you make a wish at sunrise, it’ll come true.

Spain

In Spain, people ring in the new year by eating 12 grapes, one at each stroke of midnight. Doing so brings good luck and prosperity for the 365 days to come.

Turkey

Fruit also makes an appearance at Turkish celebrations, where pomegranates are sma shed on the ground in front of homes to welcome the new year.

Cheers to a happy and healthy year!

Arrive Alive Stay Sober When You Drive

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

The holiday season is in full swing, and celebrations of all kinds abound. However, amidst the merriment and festivities, it’s important to remember you should never get behind the wheel if you’re intoxicated. Here’s what you should know.

EFFECTS

Many of the skills required for safe driving, such as sound judgment, acute concentration, impeccable co-ordination, pronounced visual acuity and quick re exes, are impacted by drug and alcohol use. Consequently, being under the in uence can result in speeding, driving o the road, swerving into oncoming tra c and dozing behind the wheel.

DETECTION

Police o cers use their training as well as what they see, hear and smell to determine if a driver has drugs or alcohol in their system. Plus, they can take a breath sample to determine a motorist’s blood alcohol level. Police may also issue a standardized eld sobriety test (SFST), which typically requires the driver to walk in a straight line, stand and turn or stand on one leg.

CONSEQUENCES

If you’re caught driving under the in uence of drugs or alcohol, you could have your licence suspended following your arrest, even before being convicted. Once convicted, the severity of your sentence will depend on your background and the circumstances surrounding your arrest. For instance, you could receive a hefty ne and jail time if you injured or killed someone.

To avoid collisions and other serious consequences of getting behind the wheel while under the in uence, make sure you drive responsibly.

PERSONALS

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HEALTH

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LAND FOR SALE

Vermilion Elementary School News

Karen King

Submitted

VES students and staff would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and all the best in 2023. We hope you have a safe and enjoyable break.

In the last week of school, the Grade 3/4 class read the book How the Grinch Stole Christmas and compared it to the cartoon version. Then they completed an art activity followed by descriptive writing of their Grinch. Grade 5 and 6 students wrote a Dear Santa letter from the perspective of a villain who had been placed on the naughty list and who had to convince The CEO of the North Pole why he/she should be on the nice list. Christmas gnomes were also made by all Grade 5 and 6 students.

Students enjoyed the annual Rock, Paper, Scissors contest that was held on December 21. Congratulations to Evelyn

Bosgra on being the ultimate champion. On December 23, students and staff gathered for a great game of Elves and Reindeer, as well as some carol singing and a small skit put on by the staff.

Both Christmas concerts were a huge success, thanks to all our audience members who joined us on two of the coldest evenings this year. Special thank you to all the volunteers who put in many hours making sure these concerts were each a success.

Basketball Club is starting up in the New Year. All interested Grade 4-6 students will have the opportunity to learn some basketball skills under the direction of Mr. Beecroft. Practices will start on January 9 and run until February 27, on Mondays and Wednesdays after school.

The next school council meeting will be on January 17 at 6:30 pm. Activities in the gym will be provided by VIBE and

the Grade 6 Leadership Club. Please join in to engage with them regarding budget and the VES education plan. Everyone is welcome.

On January 27, VES students and staff will be celebrating both our success in working toward our year end AR goals, and the beginning of the second half of our school year. We will be celebrating with a shared breakfast and beach day activities. Students will dress in beach wear and/or sunglasses, and be ready for some special activities in the afternoon. Please note that beach and sunglasses Spirit Day has been moved from Feb 1 to January 27 for this event.

Dates to Remember: Jan 9 – School Starts after Break; Jan 9 – Dress to Impress or Career Wear; Jan 17 – School Council Meeting at 6:30; Jan 27 – Staff and Student Breakfast and Beach Day; Jan 30 – No School – School Based

PL Day; Jan 31 – No School – Teacher

Directed Day; Feb 3 – Science Fair.

` ADMINISTRATION:

Tax Penalty Reminder: All outstanding tax balances will have a further 12% penalty applied if not paid by January 16, 2023. Payment options include paying at the County office, using the drop box, by mail, online/telephone banking or OptionPay Credit Card on the County website.

New Phone System: The County has implemented a new phone system to better serve the public. To help make the rate payer experience a bit more efficient, the options available are also listed on our website and list the main topics covered by the staff you will be directed to. This new phone tree system is intended to ensure calls coming into the County Office are directed in a timely, efficient manner and calls are transferred to the correct individual without delay.

The Vermilion Mental Health & Wellness Symposium will be held on January 18, 2023 at the Vermilion Regional Centre. Tickets and further information are available at www.vermilionalbertachamber.com. Topics include creating healthy professional boundaries, a personal journey with addictions, trauma and mental health and simple ways to build well -being.

TAXES:

Changes to Boundaries of the East Catholic School Division: East Catholic School Division have changed for the 2023 tax year. Any property within the Catholic School Division boundaries may have its education tax dollars to be directed to either the public or separate school jurisdictions. The County has mailed property owners within the new boundaries a School Support Declaration form. If you own property within the area prescribed in the Ministerial Order (please visit our website for map) and haven’t received a School Support Declaration form, please contact the Tax Department.

PUBLIC WORKS:

Snow Plow Flags: are available for purchase at the County office. Stop by today to sign an agreement for the 2022/2023 season. If you have a red or green flag from last year, place it at the end of your driveway and the grader operator will pick it up.

Heavy Vehicle Permits: All heavy vehicle permits will expire on December 31, 2022. Please contact our Public Works Team to renew your permit for 2023 at 780.846.3309. All vehicles registered for 22,500kg and over require a permit to travel on County roads as per the Traffic Bylaw (Bylaw 14 -04).

Reminder to check our website www.vermilion-river.com for news, events, announcements, employment opportunities and more! For current news and updates, follow County of Vermilion River on Facebook and Twitter.

Raynette Schroeder

Submitted

Many activities were planned for the last week of classes for 2022. On Monday, December 19, we had Santa hats day; on Tuesday, December 20 was elves vs. Santa, junior high is elves (elf ears or green), and senior high is Santa (Santa hats or red); Wednesday, December 21 was ugly sweater day; Thursday, December 22 was bring your mug for hot chocolate in the morning, and Friday, December 23 was our typical PJ day and breakfast in the morning. We also planned a few events for periods 7-8 on the 23rd, which included dodgeball in the gymnasium, cookie decorating and board games in the concourse, a movie in Ms. Terkper’s room, and bingo in the learning commons.

Congratulations to Ms. Terkper’s 7B class on winning the food bank donation compe-

J.R. Robson School

tition!! They beat out Mr. Woodward’s 9A class by 56 items. They will be celebrating by enjoying a food party at a later date! Pirate Crews collected a total of 1101 food items, 6 big toys and $140 dollars.

The Annual JR Robson ski trip to Table Mountain had to be postponed unfortunately due to the cold weather. It will be rescheduled to sometime in March.

Wishing everyone a restful break and quality time with family. See you back in class on January 9th, 2023!

Important Dates: Dec 24-Jan 8: Christmas Break

Jan 12: English 30-1/-2 Part A Diploma Exam

Jan 13: Social 30-2 Part A Diploma Exam

Jan 18: Last Day of Classes for Grade 12 students

Jan 20: Last Day of Classes for Grade 10-11 students.

Pirate Crew Food Drive results. Photo submitted