963

Lorna Hamilton Reporter

The Vermilion Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club hosted their 4th Annual Snowmobile Drag Races in conjunction with Straightline Snowmobile Racing Associate at the Vermilion Airport on February 11.

With glorious weather conditions for February, sixty-five registered racers from all over Alberta and Saskatchewan enjoyed the day of racing excitement. Straightline Snowmobile Racing Associate (SSRA) ran the sanctioned races with classes for professionals and amateurs. The event was familyfriendly with racers of all ages and cash prizes were awarded to the finalist.

Vermilion Ridge Riders president, Warren Young was pleased with the day and the turnout. There were a broad array of sleds that attended, everything from a 120cc kids sled to purpose-built mod sleds.

Snowmobile Drag Races

Twelve-year-old Sydney Waldorf attended the races to volunteer, but was asked to participate in the races on a sled she had never ridden before; but that didn’t stop her from coming in 1st in one heat and 2nd in another for the junior division. It was her first time racing and said, “It was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed racing and I like the adrenaline from it.”

Also available at this years event was a beer garden and concession which offered hot dogs, chili dogs, chili bowls, hamburgers, cheese burgers, and various beverages.

The event was also broadcast on 100.1 FM radio.

The Ridge Riders would like to thank the Town of Vermilion and Vermiion

Sled racers competing. Photos Jacob Hamilton

Junior racer Sydney Waldorf ready to take off.

Lorna Hamilton Reporter

Back in the day, Brent Convey made hooch with his dad in the basement of their home when he lived just south of Vermilion. While working in the energy industry, Convey resided in Saudi Arabia and expanded his distilling knowledge of alcohol because it was a dry country. After moving to Seguin Texas, he expanded his passion of making liquor by owning and operating CY Distillery.

“Liquor has been part of many or most of my decisions, so I thought I might as well make some money at it. A friend of mine in Alberta owns Righand Distillery and offered to partner up and expand into the USA,” commented Convey. Convey also noted that their distillery isn’t of the norm with a bar or pub attached to it; and that their goal is to produce a great whiskey, bourbon, and vodka and said, “We make liquor using all the tech from the 1960’s, I’m not sure what makes it good and taste is

Thank You

The family of the late Calvin Imrie, would like to thank everyone for their kind words, phone calls, messages, visits, cards and flowers. Thank-you to all that made donations in his memory. A special thank-you to Reflections Funeral Home, for their guidance and support during this difficult time. In lieu of thank-you cards the family will be making a donation to Stars.

Thank-you from Joy, Kevin & Heather, Carey, Jodie & Jim, 9 grandchildren, and 2 great-grancdchildren

The Joys Of Distilling

subjective. What makes our product unique is we gather our bourbon mash grains from local farmers and use well water straight from the aquifer, and we don’t add any chemicals or other accelerants. Just mill the grains insight and good clean water. Then it comes down to running the still (named George after his grandfather) removing the heads and tails from every distillation process. We do this by taste throughout the spirit runs.”

Convey explained that the alcohol they boiled off through the condenser of the actual still is collected and they distill it multiple times depending on what they are doing to refine it more and more. Vodka is the white liquor, and anything stored in wood is whiskey. They make bourbon on an almost daily basis, but are making a mash every day for one alcohol or another.

“We have to age our liquor in house, and we also have a blended whiskey that like a Canadian Rye Whiskey, blended with rye

February 17, 1979

"In Loving Memory of Our Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother."

44 years have passed since

After all that you’ve been through I wished that I could have helped you.

That could have been done.

Peacefully sleeping now, out of pain, I would not wake you to suffer again.

Sadly missed but not forgotten, Darren, Teresa, Chaylene, and Pat Kaebree, Kamdyn, and Kyler

Stephen Yaceyko

June 24, 1927 ~ January 11, 2023

The family of Steve wishes to extend their sincere appreciation and heartfelt thank-you to family, friends, and neighbours for your love, comfort, words of encouragement, prayers, sympathy cards, owers and donations to our selected charities.

Many thanks to the paramedics of Elk Point Ambulance Services, and the rst responders of Clandonald Fire Department for their assistance in time of need.

A special thanks to Dr. Ebiskie and the nursing sta of Elk Point Health Centre for their compassion, wonderful care, and comfort in Dad’s last remaining days.

Many thanks to Candice Anderson and the sta of Re ections Funeral & Cremation Services for your compassion and guidance during arrangements for Steve (Dad).

Special thanks to Candice Anderson for o ciating the beautiful and heartfelt service.

Thank-you to Father Andrij Nykyforuk for o ciating the graveside service at St. George’s Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery in Derwent.

Thank you to Rural Roots for the beautiful ower arrangement for the service.

Thank you to Sharon Jaremco for providing the hot lunch at noon for the immediate family, and for the lunch after the Celebration of Life.

Bless you all!

whiskey, blended with wheat whiskey and blended with corn whiskey. All three are whiskey’s but corn whiskey is a bourbon,” said Convey.

CY Distilling currently produces whiskey, bourbon, and vodka, as well as an Irish crème which is the recipe of his business partner Righand Distillery. They are releasing another version which will be butter pecan in both the U.S. and in Alberta.

The owner of Righand Distillery has been a mentor for Convey, and they are using Righands bottles and logo for the three they have in production at the moment as well as their own.

The graphic which forms the CY Distillery logo is Conveys’ family brand and came from his grandfather and his family, an immigrant from Northern Ireland. The same simple cattle brand they brought with them all those years ago now adorns CY Distillery bottles, which are designed to reflect Convey’s past in the oil industry.

Convey has a working cattle farm and

uses the mash produced to help supplement his herd.

“During the process, we take the grains (locally sourced) and boil it down into a mash; almost like a thick chowder. We then add yeast, though there are some mashes we don’t add the yeast, but either way you allow the fermentation process. Then we cook off the alcohol from the water, corn or barley whatever grain we are cooking with. We feed that mash (by product) to our cattle on our farm,” commented Convey. Convey added that his cattle eat about 100 pounds of spent bourbon mash every day per animal and that the supplement feed source provides a finishing ration for their cattle every day of their lives.

“This is a full circle from field to flask to plate. It creates a pretty nice dinner if you ask me. Growing up in the Preston 4H beef club and on my Mom’s family farm (Westman Farms) I learned a couple of things on raising cattle. My cattle are the fattest in Texas,” said Convey.

Raymond Ewald Konieczny

1935 - 2022

Card of Thanks

The family of Raymond Konieczny wish to extend sincere appreciation and heartfelt thanks to family and friends for the love and comforting words of encourangement, prayers, sympathy cards, owers and donations made in Raymond’s memory. Thank you to Re ections Funeral Home sta for their compassion and guidance. Special thanks to Father Joy for the spiritual mass accompanied by vocals and music by Diane Sanson and Marilyn Demas of Something Sweet for the lovely lunch following the service. We would like to acknowledge the wonderful care provided to Raymond by the Doctors and sta of the Two Hills

They walk beside us everyday Unseen, unheard but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear

Loving remembered & forever missed, Jack and families

Poliakiwski

Photo of their bottles and logos for CY Distillery and Righand Distillery.

Photo submitted

Submitted

On Friday February 3rd, Vermilion Elementary School held its 24th Annual Science Fair.

We want to extend a huge thank you for our community judges. They were impressed with the variety and the effort that students ranging from grades 1-6 put forth in their projects.

Entering the Science Fair is not mandatory and is completed at home with a few check in meetings with Mr. Haslehurst along the way.

“It is exciting to watch students explore the science topics which interest them,” stated Mr. Haslehurst.

In total, 31 students participated in completing 21 projects. Twelve of those projects achieve merit for demonstrating excellence in the scientific process and understanding the science behind their topic. Some projects were research based; such as hurricanes, animals, and

VES Science Fair

how batteries work, etc. Other science projects were experiment based; such as exploding pop, making slime, and paper towel strength tests.

New Pet Grooming Business In Vermilion

Angela Mouly Reporter

The Comb & Collar hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Lakeland Mall in Vermilion on February 9.

The Town of Vermilion presented sole proprietor, Sasha Hanlon, with a plaque in celebration of her new pet grooming business.

“We’re always thrilled to see a new business opening up, and we are looking forward to the strong support from the community,” said Mayor Greg Throndson.

Hanlon has lived in Vermilion for the past 14 years and graduated from Lakeland College as a Veterinary Medical Assistant in 2015. While doing her practicum, she happened to see a groomer and was hooked ever since. Instead of seeing the dogs sad she liked making them pretty instead, and said she went on to receive more training from the top groomer in the area.

“Being my first venture as an entrepreneur, I knew the equipment was going to be expensive and I was afraid I wasn’t going to build up my clients, but since opening December 1, it was so nice to get all my old clients back; it’s nice to have supporters,” said Hanlon. “My favourite part of grooming is starting a puppy. They don’t know what to expect and are scared. When the parents (owners) take my advice and come regularly, they grow and flourish, and can relax.”

She said pet grooming is a skill in very high demand and hard to learn, so she currently has clients travelling from Mannville, Elk Point, St. Paul, and Lloydminster. Convinced it was her personality as well as her talent that kept them coming, Councillor Rob Pulyk said, “The more services that are here, the more dollars stay in the community, which helps build jobs and economic development.”

“I’m very thankful to the Town, my family, and the community for the encouragement,” said Hanlon.

To see recent work, you can follow her at The Comb & Collar Vermilion on Facebook.

They are open Tuesday - Saturday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. For more information or to book an appointment you can call 780-853-7949.

From left, Councillor Rob Snow, Councillor Rob Pulyk, Owner/Operator Sasha Hanlon, Mayor Greg Throndson, and Councillor Kevin Martin. Photo Angela Mouly

Attendees at the Science Fair.

Photos Greg Haslehurst Gemma Morrison. Nawal Elkadry.

Horsemanship Clinic

Adam Theissen leading a horsemanship clinic on February 10. Photos Angela Mouly

Dawn Hames Columnist

Here is a sweet dessert, perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Chocolate pudding and chocolate cake all in one is a real treat. This is an oldfashioned dessert recipe for chocolate lovers. It uses simple ingredients and is quick and easy to make. While this dish is baking an amazing thing happens.

The thin sauce you poured on the top forms into a pudding at the bottom of the baking dish and the cake batter you placed on the bottom goes to the top. Cocoa powder is a good source

Helen Row Toews Columnist Valentine mysteries

How do you know if a member of the opposite sex likes you? It’s an age-old question without any definitive answer. The affection others hold for us can be challenging to spot when we’re children, let alone adults.

Kids usually show it by trying to impress one another, making excuses to be close, even such as gentle pushing or shoving, or teasing, sometimes to the degree that it appears rude.

As usual, I have an example of these behaviors from my colourful/silly past. Although it seemed a bit of a stretch to consider this scenario to be flirting, my mother later assured me it was so.

I can picture it now, morning recess on the playground at Marshall School, 1967.

Chocolate Pudding Cake

of magnesium and an excellent source of anti-oxidants. Cocoa it is known to reduce blood pressure and to be heart healthy. Researchers at Harvard Medical School, the Brigham and the Women’s Hospital in Boston found that regular consumption of a standardized cocoa beverage improved blood vessel function, especially with seniors. You might want to add a cup of cocoa with your chocolate pudding cake, for more love for your heart. For some of us, you can never have too much chocolate. Just remember, dark chocolate, without the excessive sugar, is the best choice over milk chocolate for health reasons. Happy Valentines day chocolate lovers.

Chocolate Pudding Cake

Cake part

1 cup all purpose flour

4 Tablespoons sugar

3 tablespoons coco powder

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 cup butter

3/4 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Sauce

3/4 cup brown sugar

3 tablespoons cocoa powder

2 tablespoons butter

1 3/4 cups boiling water

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Grease your casserole baking dish, I use butter. Mix together the flour, sugar,

Prairie Wool

For some unknown reason, at least to a pack of hollering first-grade students, part of the lawn had been roughly torn up with a cultivator.

Before exiting the classroom, our teacher, Mrs. Ranger, admonished us to stay clear of this area and not throw clumps of earth at one another. How well that lady understood the psyche of a sixyear-old child.

We ran outside and huddled at the edge of the dirt. Oh, the temptation of fresh filth. However, with our teacher’s words ringing in our little ears, we turned away and moved dejectedly to the swing set until the bell, signalling the end of the break, rang. Albert Hoover stayed close by. He liked me.

As we dashed back to our studies, Albert detoured, ever so briefly, into the forbidden land, snatched up a smallish lump of sod, and tossed it my way.

“Bet you can’t hit me,” he jeered, leaping away.

The dirt crumbled on impact with my

arm, but I jumped as though he’d lobbed a grenade at my person. A grin was plastered across his face as he jogged up the hill, waiting for my reaction. Had he foreseen the future, he might have chosen to step up his pace.

Failing to understand the finer nuances of flirting at this tender age, I viewed this action as a full frontal attack and responded accordingly. Veering with single-minded purpose to the restricted area, I seized a likely-looking clod and hurled it with deadly accuracy at the boy’s head.

BLAM! Right in the noggin. He plummeted to the ground, bowling over with a series of yowls that brought the entire schoolyard to a standstill. The teacher was summoned, his classmates gathered around, accusing glares were sent my way, and I subsided into a withering pile of remorse.

What had I done? Knocked him senseless? Killed the boy with one fell blow? Would I do prison time? Undergo public

cocoa powder and baking powder. Stir in the melted butter and milk. It will be a very thick batter. Spread the batter in the bottom of a casserole dish. You can use a 9” round or a 8” square. In a separate bowl or 4 cup glass measuring cup add and mix together the sugar, butter, cocoa powder and hot water. Pour this mixture over the batter, leaving it to float on top of the batter. Do not stir. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes. You can serve it hot with cream or ice cream. It can also be served cold, with the chocolate sauce spooned on top of whipped cream or ice cream. The brown sugar can be increased to 1 cup depending on how sweet or dark you like your chocolate to be.

flogging? Be sent to juvie?

No one fully understood what juvie was, but it sounded terrible!

Thankfully no. I made an eloquent apology, was sent to detention and received a stern lecture on rule-breaking, dangerous roughhousing, and selfcontrol.

Life went on.

Several months later, two interesting things happened. One, I was issued a marriage proposal by this same young man who felt I might be handy to have around in case of a zombie apocalypse. Two, I was urged to join the softball team as pitcher. (Good throwing arm.)

Not a tale brimming with love and Valentine’s Day sentiment, you might remark as we draw to a close.

True, but it does illustrate how love conquers all and occasionally promotes you out of left field.

For more of Helen’s stories or to order her new, destination romance, go to helentoews.com

MROCZEK, John

May 26, 1934 – February 1, 2023

John Mroczek, beloved husband, father, grandfather, & friend passed away in his sleep on February 1, 2023 at the age of 88. He was born in Holden, Alberta to Michael & Helen (Pyzick) Mroczek. He enjoyed growing up on the family farm with his 5 siblings. In June 1959, he married the love of his life Annie (Antos) and they were married 52 years at the time of Annie’s passing in 2012. He was proud of his 3 children – Brian, Kevin, & Roseanne – and took an active role in their lives. He had a very kind heart which was demonstrated each time Roseanne brought home a stray dog or cat who always became part of our family.

John worked with the Canadian National Railway as a Foreman for 36 years. During that time, he mentored several employees who became life long friends. He also played a role in the 1978 Royal Tour as the Queen travelled via train during her visit to Alberta. As a result of his work, they relocated to Viking, Bruce, St. Albert & Mannville. They have many fond memories of living in the CN stations in the St. Albert & Mannville communities. The St. Albert station is now part of the Alberta Railway Museum in Edmonton where John & Brian were frequent visitors.

VERMILION VOICE

www.vermilionvoice.com

John & Annie built a new house in Mannville to enjoy their retirement years. John spent time enjoying many projects around the house and meeting with friends for a co ee at the local cafe. Retirement also gave him more time to spend with his 5 grandchildren, who he loved whole heartedly and treasured the conversations, visits, and memories he had with them. He was so proud of their accomplishments including graduating from university in their respective elds. After 32 years in Mannville, they moved to Athabasca where Kevin & his family lived. In 2005, they relocated to Edmonton where they spent their remaining years together in Condo 217.

John was a considerate and generous man who enjoyed meeting new people. Each morning, you could always nd John at Londonderry Mall completing his daily walk around and then discussing the latest news over co ee with his buddies. John was an avid pool player and played many games at his condo’s game room or at the nearby Legion. He always enjoyed meeting his relatives for lunch.

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.

Publisher: Susan Chikie

Editor: Lorna Hamilton

Photographer / Reporter: Lorna Hamilton, Angela Mouly

Graphic Design: Braxton Hoare

Sales: Susan Chikie, Lorna Hamilton of the Gove nment of Canada

John will remain forever in the hearts of his children Brian (Myra), Kevin, Roseanne (Selina), & grandchildren Breanna (Scott), Megan, Gregory, Janaan, Kameelah & Selina’s daughters Jess (Adam) & Sam (Riley). Also mourning his passing is John’s sister Josie Slabysz, brother Terry (Laurie), friend Theresa Ulvestad, his co ee buddies, & his “Antos” family.

John was predeceased by his wife Annie, parents Michael Mroczek & Helen (Paul) Chmielewski, brother Stanley, sisters Evelyn Lefsurd & Sophie Allen, & brother-in-laws Bill Slabysz & Charlie Allen.

At John’s request, there will be no funeral. His immediate family will get together at a later date to celebrate John and what he meant to them. John will be buried next to Annie at the Bruce Cemetery. If so desired, memorial donations in John’s name may be made to STARS Air Ambulance or the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute.

Craig Baird

Columnist

It was a sad day for Vermilion on Oct. 7, 1969 when Mayor S. Carl Heckbert passed away suddenly.

Originally born in Sackville, New Brunswick, Heckberk enlisted with the army in the First World War and served for three years before coming home and gaining an education in teaching. He spent some time teaching industrial arts in Illinois and Wisconsin but came

OBITUARY

Teresa Irene (Sullivan) Chanatry

Died peacefully in Albuquerque on January 23rd 2023 after a brief illness; she was 97. She will be remembered as a learned, engaging and sparkling personality, a woman of spirit and faith, lifelong friend, and a shining light of the family. She is survived by her son, Michael, and wife Dianne (Vadeboncoeur) of Centerville, Ohio; grandson Ryan Chanatry of Brooklyn, NY; grandson Casey Chanatry, wife Jamie (Richards), and great-granddaughter Alma of Dayton, Ohio; brother Gordan Allan Sullivan and wife Joan (O’Kane) of Princeton, New Jersey; nephews Michael Sullivan of Montreal, Canada; Timothy Sullivan of Jersey City, New Jersey; and David Sullivan and wife Diana (Morris), grand-niece Haley and grand-nephew George, of Princeton, New Jersey; cousin Mary Colbert of Oswego, Illinois; and sister-in-law Janet Chanatry of Utica, New York. There are many nieces, nephews, and friends as well, all of whom have grown up knowing, admiring and absorbing the infectious joy that was Teresa.

The Death Of A Mayor

to Vermilion in 1925 to join the teaching staff of the provincial agricultural college.

He continued on that path for eight years, before he moved into real estate and insurance, operating a business with his son for the next four decades.

At the time of his death, he had been mayor of Vermilion for eight years, after four years on council. He had only just announced that he was not going to be running for re-election. At the time, he was a very popular mayor. He was also a member of the Canadian Legion and the Masonic Lodge.

Throughout his time in Vermilion,

Lorna Hamilton Reporter

Heckbert was a major contributor to community affairs and had served as the Alberta president of the Canadian Legion from 1941 to 1949. He was also a past grand master of the Masonic Ledge for Alberta.

On top of all of that, he also served as the former president of the Western Canada Fairs Association.

In 1968, he also sought the nomination for the Progressive Conservative Party in the constituency for the federal election. He lost the nomination to Don Mazankowski, who won and would serve in that riding until 1993.

If it was a community organization, Heckbert did it all.

Upon his death, he was survived by his wife, one son named Charles, a grandson named Douglas and a granddaughter named Jane.

Contact Craig at craig@canadaehx. com

Support Craig by donating at www. canadaehx.com (Click Donate)

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.

Allied Arts- Martin Kerr Trio

The Vermilion Allied Arts featured the Martin Kerr Trio at the Lakeland College Alumni Theatre in Vermilion on February 12.

Kerr was born and raised in Britain, but currently resides in Edmonton and has become a fixture to the summer scene drawing huge crowds to his street performances and has sold thousands of CD’s from his guitar case. Martin has

Vermilion Junior Curling

THANK YOU TO OUR BONSPIEL SPONSORS

JIM SMITH MEMORIAL JUNIOR BONSPIEL

FEBRUARY 3 & 4, 2023

• Moses Farms

• Northside Farm

• Nutrien Ag Solutions

• Olson Curling

also performed in some of the finest concert halls, major international conferences, and places of worship of various faiths, folk clubs and numerous house concerts across North America.

Martin’s music style is described as genre-hopping from folk to hiphop, pop, soul, and funk and back to his intimate singer-songwriter vibe. When listening to Martin’s music it made the audience tap their feet and clap their hands while bringing them

on a journey of highs.

“Martin has visited over 30 countries and believes passionately in the oneness of all races and religions. During his travels, he spent a year teaching music to preschoolers in Beijing. The dozens of songs he wrote there are now used in hundreds of schools around China to encourage the virtues of courage, patience and kindness,” according to The Allied Arts write-up on Martin Kerr.

• Bi-Systems Electric and Controls

• Boston Pizza Vermilion

• Burnt Rock Adventure Co.

• Cenovus Energy Inc.

• Cornerstone Coop

• Dave’s Field Service

• Deborah A. Tovell Professional Corp.

• G3 Vermilion

• Harbrook & Paisley

• In Memory of Evelyn McCrae

• In Memory of Paul Mudryk

• Ireland Farm Equipment Ltd

• Lakeland College

• Long’s Value Drug Mart

• McDonald's

• Remax Prairie Realty

• Rock Solid Nitrogen Services

• Rona Vermilion

• Rotary Club of Vermilion

• Rural Roots Florist

• Rustlers Nation (LLC)

• S&R Investments

• Shelly's Window Coverings

• Southpaw Welding Ltd.

• Toma Fine Floors

• UFA Farm Store

• Vermilion Ag Foods

• Vermilion Coop Bulk Fuel

• Vermilion Credit Union

• Webb’s

Tara Eyben

End Lake Environmental - Wyatt

Walterhouse

NLS - Jim Pulyk

Ryan & Steph Leahy

P&H Wainwright

Paradise Hill Farm Supply

Burnt Rock Adventures

Integra TireDen for Men

Ritchie Brothers - Jesse Guy

Quarter Cuts - Dallas & Morgan

Hoffman

Nailed It Construction

Denwood Motors

Country Lane Angus

Walter & Maureen Cooper

Farm Credit Corporation

Angela Mouly Reporter

A number of items were up for discussion at the Vermilion Town Council meeting on February 7, including a delegation by RCMP Sgt. Dunsmore, a street sale, a realty incentive, and a letter of support for the Legion.

Sergeant Dunsmore delivered his quarterly report with statistics from October – December of 2022. Because they are shared late, he noted it was the first time last year they had seen an increase, but that it was not a unique trend for the town, county or province.

“In short, things are going well with the detachment,” said Dunsmore. “Significant challenges that RCMP and other forces are facing is to attract and retain employees. We maintain fully staffed with one position on long term leave which we aim to fill by next quarter. This does not affect service delivery, but affects the schedule with the existing members picking up the slack and making do with what we have.”

In crime, theft over $5,000 was up 1,200 per cent in the last quarter. That included one heavy equipment theft that another detachment was able to recover. Overall he said in the 5 -year trend there was almost a 30 per cent decrease, and a 14 per cent decrease when compared to last quarter of 2021.

To fulfill their community engagement, the Vermilion RCMP will be planning another Coffee With A Cop in partnership with Lakeland College in March.

Councillor Snow asked if they had seen any changes since Citizens on Patrol had been dissolved or with the other rural crime groups making reports in the area.

“We rely on the public to report things to us whether by an individual or an organized group. This a message we try and reaffirm any time we get the chance,” said Dunsmore, “Do they make

Vermilion Town Council

a difference? Absolutely they make a difference. If we don’t know something is going on we can’t do anything about it. You never know what small piece of the puzzle fits into the bigger picture.”

A motion was made to give first reading of Road Closure Bylaw #3-3023, to proceed with the public hearing process and obtain approval from the Minister of Alberta Transportation. The proposed road closure would be for 49A Street from 49 Avenue to Railway Avenue. According to the Town, the closure will allow Ireland Farm Equipment (the landowner to the east and west) to purchase the road for additional space for their agricultural equipment business as per their purchase agreement dated December 16, 2019.

Councillor Snow asked if there had been any consultation with other businesses around that area, and Director of Infrastructure and Planning, Ben McPhee, said a portion of this project was before his time here, but a portion is in the consultation process and to allow them to come talk to the Town. Councillor Pulyk noted it has been discussed for quite some time and well before the Cheesery was built. McPhee noted that it will take approximately one year for Alberta Transportation to approve the project.

Mayor Throndson asked, “What are we going to see there for change? For example, is there going to be sidewalk removal or are those things going to go through

their property? This is a first time for a lot of communities; most communities don’t sell streets to businesses. There will be a lot of questions on this – it is going to be a positive thing, but is going to take a long time,” said Throndson.

With one opposed and six in favour, the motion was carried.

Since 2018, the Town of Vermilion has been offering a $3,000 realty incentive to local real estate agents for their property sales within the Town of Vermilion.

Manager of Economic Development, Mary Lee Prior said, “To date the program has been very successful for residential lots only. The staff recommends that council approve an increase of the realty incentive to $5,000 per transaction only for industrial or commercial lot sales. They will be made once the sale is paid in full and the incentive will be reviewed

annually.”

The motion was carried.

The Field Marshall Alexander Royal Canadian Legion Branch #11 submitted a request for a letter of support as they venture to obtain a Community Facility Enhancement Program Grant for $25,000. Director of Community Services, Sarah Paterson, said the grant will fund the second phase of the Soldier’s Plot at the Vermilion Public Cemetery, including landscaping, and a concrete walkway for signage stands for soldiers who lost their lives during WWI and WWII. It was noted the letter was received after the required date but another round of funding would be coming available for them.

Mayor Thondson said, “I think it’s a wonderful project; a wonderful display for the soldiers of the past.” The motion was carried.

Strategies For Tackling Financial Planning, Risk Management

AFSC

Submitted

Traditionally, December and January are a time to reflect on the past year and think about the one ahead. For producers, this often means turning attention to paperwork and office duties that may have been building up over the busy fall months. While most of us have no shortage of items on our to-do lists, one that may rise to the top is financial planning for your farm operation.

Financial planning and risk management are critical elements to the success of any operation. Thinking of it as a “three-legged” stool can be useful, with production planning, financial planning and risk management making up the three legs. Each leg of the stool is necessary to create a strong structure.

Production planning – the number of acres to seed, livestock purchases and sales, input purchases and human resource planning,

Financial planning – farm transition, input financing, capital expenditure decisions, interest rate management and savings plans,

Risk management – operational diversification (crop mix, livestock strategies, and geography), insurance for crop and livestock production loss, forward-delivery contracts and hedging strategies.

While this list isn’t all encompassing, you can quickly see just how complex it can be to run a successful farm enterprise. By organizing these topics into the three-legged stool categories, you can begin to work through each task. Being well informed is

always important, and that often means understanding our limitations and seeking advice when we need it. Farming can be a 24/7 endeavour and it’s impossible to be an expert in every aspect of business – there just aren’t enough hours in the day.

Partnering with experts can help you ensure the success of your operation. Whether it’s working with an accountant who understands agriculture and tax planning—including your lender in your financial planning process—or having a host of advisors in areas like animal health, agronomy or risk products— these supports can pay dividends in the long run.

A second key topic to watch is how your operation’s debt is struc tured, which ties into your over all risk management plan as well. For instance, having all of your debt on variable rates could expose your operation to interest costs that your business cannot afford.

Conversely, if you lock in all of your debt for the same term, you may miss the opportunity to lower your overall interest costs. Having a mix of fixed and variable rate financing can be beneficial. This past year has been particularly challenging for managing interest rates.

AFSC, like most lenders, offers programs that provide flexibility in how you can manage your debt. We offer terms from five, 10, 15 and 20 years, and one and three year terms on revolving loans. If you have oper ating credit that is on a variable rate, then locking in some or all of your operating and capital expenditure loans may mitigate your financial risk.

If you are a beginning producer, or someone looking to take over the family farm, AFSC’s Next Generation Loan program ties in very favorably with most financial plans. With a Young Producer incentive rate, you can reduce your overall borrowing costs for the first five years of your borrowing, while the flexibility on terms allows you to manage the risk and maturity of your debt.

In addition, AFSC’s revolving loan program is a fixed rate product. If you are concerned about the financial exposure on a fully variable rate financing line, then having a portion of your operating credit locked in can also reduce your risk and give you

certainty.

There’s so much to consider when running your farm operation, and it requires you to wear many hats. A little planning now will put you and your farm on the right track. AFSC’s knowledge and understanding of the challenges in farm planning, risk mitigation and financing can help you get there.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about AFSC’s lending options, please contact one of our lending relationship managers. Use Live Chat on our website or AFSC Connect , call our Client Care Centre at 1.877.899.2372, or contact your preferred branch office

Alberta Is Introducing A New Agri-Processing Tax Credit

AB Government

Submitted

As provinces and states across North America look to capitalize on the potential of the agri-processing industry, Alberta will build on the province’s competitive advantages by launching a new tax credit program in spring 2023. The program will ensure Alberta maintains a competitive edge over other jurisdictions and is able to maximize the number of opportunities that help grow the economy and create jobs.

Budget 2023 will introduce the Alberta

Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit to provide a 12 per cent non-refundable tax credit to support this growth and attract investment. To be eligible, corporations must make a minimum capital investment of $10 million in value-added agriprocessing in Alberta.

“Agriculture has been a key part of Alberta’s economy for more than 100 years and I’m excited to see this tax credit program roll out so that it continues to be a key part of our economy in the future. Alberta’s agricultural producers play an

important role in feeding the world and I look forward to seeing further innovation and growth in this sector,” said Danielle Smith, Premier.

“Alberta has the fundamentals to take our value-added agriculture industry to new heights and meet the increasing global demand for food. The new agriprocessing tax credit will allow us to attract large-scale agri-food projects that will help grow our industry, increase opportunities for primary producers, create jobs and feed the world,” said Nate Horner, Minister

of Agriculture and Irrigation.

As Alberta’s oldest industry, agriculture is foundational to the province’s economy and identity. Incentivizing large capital investments will ensure the sector remains strong for generations to come and capable of adapting to the economy of the future.

“The Alberta Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit further positions Alberta as an attractive place to do business. By supporting this quickly evolving and increasingly competitive sector, this government is further encouraging investment that will create jobs and grow Alberta’s economy,” noted Travis Toews, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance.

“With the introduction of the agriprocessing investment tax credit, Alberta has positioned itself to attract more largescale sector investments than ever before from companies like mine. This is the right way for Alberta’s agri-food sector to support diversification, create jobs, compete and win,” commented Rich Vesta, CEO, Harmony Beef.

“Alberta is widely recognized in the business community for its competitive tax rates, skilled workforce and strong primary agriculture sector. By offering a 12 per cent tax credit to agri-food processors making a minimum investment of $10 million, Alberta is maintaining its status as a top destination for value-added agricultural projects,” said John Heimbecker, owner, Parrish and Heimbecker.

“Population growth, a changing climate and increased costs of food are all indicators that food security will be a growing challenge. The new agri-processing tax credit program is a great incentive that will continue to highlight rural Alberta as the home of an innovative agriculture industry that plays a vital role in supporting food production,” stated Paul McLauchlin, president, Rural Municipalities of Alberta.

Winter Manure Management Considerations

Agri News

Submitted

“Extreme weather events, full manure storages, delayed harvest or contractor availability may be some of the most common reasons why a farm operator may need to spread manure on frozen and/or snow-covered ground,” says Trevor Wallace, provincial nutrient management specialist with the Alberta government. “However, when the ground is frozen or snow-covered, the risk of losing applied manure and nutrients in runoff is much greater due to limited soil infiltration, reduced vegetative filtering and increased runoff potential. It is important to be aware of the increased risks and to know your options to manage them.”

Adopt strategies to avoid emergency situations and the need to spread manure on frozen or snow-covered ground. Strategies could include regular maintenance and inspection of the equipment and facilities. Consider increasing the frequency of inspections with aging infrastructure. Wellplanned inspections identify wear, damage and maintenance issues before there is a problem. Create a checklist and a schedule to find weak points in the system so that they are not overlooked, and keep those records should a Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) inspector ask to see them.

“If your storage facilities cannot hold the manure produced through the winter, perhaps it’s time to increase your storage capacity,” points out Wallace.

This can be done by constructing additional storage facility capacity to provide a total 12 to 18 months manure production, which will: allow spreading manure at a better time for crops to uptake those nutrients reduce

spreading frequency thereby reducing time to deal with logistics avoid emergencies and thus reduce stress and improve your mental health, and improve neighbour and community relationships.

Another way to increase capacity for solid manure is to use short-term or temporary manure storage. Under the Agricultural Operation Practices Act (AOPA), manure can be stored in a short-term manure storage for an accumulated total of 7 months over a 3-year period.

“This limitation reduces the risks from storing manure such as nutrient accumulation, runoff and leaching. Site selection can further reduce these impacts and minimize concerns from neighbours and the community.”

If spreading is the only option, the first step to managing risks related to spreading manure on frozen or snowcovered land is to contact the nearest NRCB inspector to discuss the situation. The NRCB may or may not grant permission depending on the reasons for spreading, type of manure and the site-specific circumstances. The NRCB will: meet and work with you to assess the situation confirm if the field is frozen or snow-covered if needed help you to decide what steps can be taken to reduce risk, if any, and tell you what specific requirements must be met to ensure spreading will not cause a risk to the environment or inappropriate nuisance as per the regulations under the AOPA.

How can you tell if the ground is frozen or snow-covered? Alberta developed a Frozen and SnowCovered Land Technical Guideline that provides the following tests: Frozen - the soil is impenetrable as a result of freezing temperatures, or more than one third of the top 15 cm (6

in) contains frozen soil water.

Snow-covered - more than 50% of the field is covered by an average snow depth of more than 5 cm (2 in) from the ground surface.

“If you are still unsure, the NRCB inspector can help you determine if the field is frozen or snow-covered and if so, tell you what is required to get permission to spread. Check out their Applying Manure on Frozen or Snow-Covered Land factsheet for more information.”

If the land is not frozen or snowcovered, then the normal requirements for manure handling and spreading are in effect, see Manure Spreading

Regulations

“You can be proactive by developing a winter manure management plan that minimizes the need to apply manure in the winter and reduces the risk of emergency situations,” says Wallace. “Include a schedule for spreading activities in advance and time those activities to avoid winter spreading. A plan that includes preventative maintenance activities and additional storage solutions further reduces the likelihood of having to spread in the winter.”

Having a well thought out plan is invaluable when faced with an emergency and therefore should identify suitable fields for emergency spreading by: collecting and analyzing information about potential manure spreading lands such as soil test records, runoff potential, direction and potential downslope receptors assessing those fields for runoff

risk implementing setbacks from water bodies and wells, as well as nearby residences deciding which application methods to use and mitigating factors to reduce risks (for example, working a field in the fall perpendicular to the direction of slope to slow runoff).

“Preparing for winter spreading, even if you end up not needing to, will save you time, money and stress if the need arises, not to mention, if the NRCB is aware of the plan, decisions on spreading can be made faster. If accepted, the NRCB can respond in an informed way to complaints and concerns should they occur. Planning for winter spreading situations shows that you are a responsible operator, helping to support or improve your industry’s positive image and that you care for your neighbours and community.”

For more information, check out the Nutrient Management Webinar on February 6 to hear from Trevor Wallace, Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation’s nutrient management specialist and Kevin Seward, NRCB compliance manager. Alternatively call 310-FARM (3276) or email 310farm@gov.ab.ca

File photo.

Friday february 17 AT 1:00 pM Westgold Bull Sale

monday February 27 AT 1:00 pM

The Kuzio Farms & Ty-D Livestock Bull Sale

to follow

WEDNESDAY March 8 AT 9:30 AM

All Breeds Presort and Regular Sale to follow

We Are Hiring Yard staff

Cattle By The Numbers

AgriNews

Submitted 2022 saw a decrease in heifer retention, auction volume and imports compared to 2021, but an increase in beef output.

“Alberta beef producers retained fewer breeding heifers for replacement in 2022, suggesting expansion is not in the immediate future,” says Ann Boyda, livestock economist with the Alberta government. “The Canfax Cattle on Feed reports show a 9.4% increase in heifer placement in feedlots in 2022 compared to 2021. Heifer placements were higher in the first half of 2022 and declined by 3% in the second half. The rate of heifer to steer placement increased to 37.5% in 2022 as compared to 33.1% in 2021. Steer placement declined by 10.2% in 2022 as compared to 2021.”

Alberta auction feeder steer and heifer volume for 2022 was 638,769 head, down 9% from 2021 and down 26.1% from the 5-year average. The first 3 weeks of 2023 report volumes down 13.4% over the same period last year.

According to the Canadian Beef Grading Agency, slaughter volume for 2022 in federally regulated plants was 2,641,249 head in Western Canada, comparable to 2021 levels (down 0.04%). The 2022 slaughter level is 8.5 % higher than the 5-year

average (2017 to 2021).

Heifer slaughter volume in 2022 rose by 6.9% over 2021 and nearly 15% over the 5-year average, whereas steer slaughter volume dropped by 5.8% when compared to 2021. Cow slaughter also increased in 2022 by 4.8% over 2021, however this level was comparable to the 5-year average (up 0.9%).

“With one month left for recorded data, 2022 will fall short of the volume in 2021,” points out Boyda. “Agri-Food Trade On-Line database indicates that live cattle imports were highest in 2021 at over 234,919 head (excluding purebred cattle), 61.7% greater than the 5-year average of 145,294 head.”

Total cattle imports to Alberta from the U.S., British Columbia and Saskatchewan reached 1,240,768 head in 2021. Preliminary estimates for 2022 suggest that total cattle imports will be down from 2021 by as much as 8%. Alberta’s feedlot capacity draws feeder steers and heifers from Saskatchewan.

“2022 year started with a backlog on cattle stemming from the heights of COVID. The industry is still feeling its repercussions. January and February are typically seasonally lower demand for beef and most signs point to a smaller calf crop in 2023,” says Boyda.

AUCTIONS

815 MECHANICAL - AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP, Acreage & Household Dispersal Feb 16-24, 2023Mechanics Tools & Equip., Tire Machines, Welders, JD 950 Tractor, Yard & Maintenance Equip., Snowmobiles, etc. www.montgomeryauctions.com. Call 403-885-5149.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

LUCRATIVE BUSINESS FOR SALE! Work 3.5 months. Holiday for 7.5 months. 1smalltownalberta. com.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269/wk (based on 25 words or less). Reach almost 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

FREIGHTLAND CARRIERS INC. is looking for owner/operators to deliver tri-flat deck freight in Alberta, Saskatchewan or BC. Monday to Friday work. Steady year-round work with substantial increases in rates. Contact Freightland by email at dispatch@ freightland.ca or telephone toll free 1-800-917-9021.

CAMPGROUND HOST/ONSITE Caretaker Vauxhall Lions Park - Vauxhall, Alberta. 2023 Camping Season May 1 - Oct. 15. 30 site campground on Highway 36 - 1/2 mile north of Vauxhall. Duties: taking bookings, registrations, collecting fees, facility cleaning, grounds maintenance. E-mail bschnarr@explorenet. ca or send resume to Vauxhall Lions, P.O. Box 729, Vauxhall, Alberta T0K 2K0.

FEED AND SEED

WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN - Heated, Mixed, Tough, Light, Bugs, Spring Thrashed....Barley, Wheat, Oats, Peas, Flax, Canola. “On Farm Pickup”. Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252.

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.

HEALTH

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.

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE

INTENSELY TESTED LONG YEARLING hybrid bulls (Angus type, formerly Beefbooster M1). Outstanding post weaning gain and feed conversion. Call: Jim Lynch-Staunton @ 403-627-6770; Email: jim@jrtwave.com.

NOTICES

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 X225. www.awna.com.

SERVICES

CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.

PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866405-1228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.

In Loving Memory Of

George (Sam) Fluney

November 11 1934 - February 12 1993

We remember our dad with a smile on his face and the good advice he would give us, and his love of farming and family. There are no words that we could say to tell you how much we miss you each and every day.

Be prepared to deal with groups and organizations of greater magnitude. Check your personal papers and make sure everything is in order. You will gain a lot if you listen.

TAURUS

They will jump at the chance to do something without you if it sounds like more fun. Don't overspend on entertainment, on children, or make poor investments.

GEMINI

Don't blow situations out of proportion. Encourage the youngsters in your family. One sided attractions are likely.

CANCER

You're best to avoid disputes. Coworkers may not be giving you all the pertinent information. Your ability to take hold of a situation will surely bring you popularity and leadership.

LIBRA

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS -

Sadly missed and forever remembered by your children

Jeffrey, Paula, Patricia and their families.

Estate of Emil Anatole Pashulka who died on October 28, 2022

If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by March 28, 2023 and provide details of your claim with Laura Schoenicke at 7620 153 Street NW Edmonton, Alberta T5R 1N4

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

Use your quick wit to win points and friends. Romance will develop through work. Travel will promote new romantic encounters.

SCORPIO

Opportunities to get ahead will be evident. Changes in your domestic scene are evident. You can make a difference if you offer your help at functions that involve children.

SAGITTARIUS

Opportunities for financial gains through investments and games of chance are likely. You can make new connections through friends or relatives. Join a choir or a drama club.

Any

9 8 7 2 1 6 3

8 5 7

1 5 3 8 2

Clandonald 4-H Multi Club Report

Club Reporter

Submitted

A new 4-H year started with our first meeting on October 12, 2022 with many new faces this year. Our club has grown a lot this year, we have 24 members and 4 cleavers. We would like to thank Cornerstone Coop for paying the registration fees for all new members.

In November we held our weigh-in at Bar B; thank you to Loren from Dewfab for allowing us to use his facilities, as well as thank you to Neudale Vet Services and Zoetis for donating the vaccines for the member’s projects. November 9&10 we helped our little community out by moving our Clandonald Seniors Club back into their original home in the Clandonald School. We held 2 club communication workshops, Nov. 23 and Jan. 16, this was to help new and existing members with their upcoming Public Speaking Event. November had a few more events that some of our members joined in on, District volleyball event and the Fall Fling, those that attended had a blast.

We held our Christmas party on December 28 with some skating and hockey at the Chrome Dome in Clandonald and a yummy potluck at the Clandonald Senior Center.

In January our club helped the Clandonald Ag society set up and take down table and chairs for their “Hay Clandonald” event on Jan. 21. We also took a tour of the G3 elevator on Jan 25, it was a good learning experience, thank you G3 for touring us around.

We held our Communication Day on February 5, 2023 at the Clandonald Hall. Each member and cleaver got the chance to present their speech or presentation that they had prepared to a panel of judges. This is a great accomplishment for all the members. Two of our senior members, Alexis Garnier and Robbie Oddan, took on the role of organizing every aspect of communication day and being the MC’s for the day, they did a great job. Thank you to Fern Axley for volunteering her time as a teller. Thank you to our sponsor ALTALINK and our judges who volunteered their time; Ashleen Sweeney, April Ockerman, Geralyn McCormack, Dave Eremko, Gloria

Dejong, Megan Axley, Deborah Elliot, Kara Jackson and Joyce Larson. We would like to acknowledge the winners in each division: Junior Speech 1st Luke Jaremco, 2nd Lydi Hopaluk; Junior Presentation

1st Rylee Richards; Intermediate Speech

1st Isabelle Jacula, 2nd Cassie Cameron; Intermediate Presentation 1st Alivia Garnier; Senior Speech 1st Wyatt Jacula, 2nd Noah Jacula; Senior Presentation 1st Rylan Garnier. First place in each division gets to compete in Districts on Feb. 26. We would like to thank Creta Haydock for her donation of a pallet of Redmond

Salt for our raffle fundraiser. The winners of the draw were: 1st Pallet of Redmond salt, Bruce Etherington; 2nd $250 cash, Paul Hopaluk; 3rd $100 cash, Connie Smith. Congratulations to the winners and thank you to all that supported our fundraiser.

Events coming up are the Family Dance Feb. 18 in Marwayne, District Curling March 18 in Vermilion, Clandonald Achievement Day May 20 in Clandonald, Interclub Achievement Day May 28 and 29 in Vermilion and the steer sale May 29 in Vermilion.

reception@ecacs16.ab.ca

23023aa4

Photo submitted.

Canada Post Honors The Defiant Chloe Cooley On New Stamp

By David Hartwig

Submitted Canada Post honored Chloe Cooley, whose act of resistance influenced legislation leading to the abolition of slavery in Upper Canada, on a stamp issued Jan. 30. This is the latest stamp in Canada’s longrunning Black Heritage Month series, which began in 2009.

The nondenominated permanent domestic letter-rate (92¢) stamp presents an illustration of Cooley, who Canada Post said “had a profound impact on the history of enslavement in Canada.”

According to Canada Post, the late 1700s saw shifting attitudes toward slavery in Upper Canada (the predecessor of modern-day Ontario) despite rising levels of enslavement in the province. Some enslavers prompted by rumors of abolition sought “to sell what was legally considered their property,” Canada Post said.

On March 14, 1793, Sgt. Adam Vrooman seized the enslaved Cooley from Queenston, just north of Niagara Falls, and forcefully took her by boat to New York state to be sold.

Cooley, however, possessed a defiant personality. According to Canada Post, she had been known to challenge her enslavement by

OhBaby

Babies of 2022

leaving Vrooman’s property without permission and refusing to do some tasks.

“She wasn’t afraid to stand up to her owner, and had done so time and again,” Sarah Kaufman, curator of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum, said in Canada Post’s Details magazine for collectors.

When Vrooman abducted her on that evening in March, he violently bound her, according to Canada Post, and dragged her to the shores of the Niagara River with the help of two other men.

Cooley fought back, screaming and yelling to draw attention to her plight, but her abductors overpowered her and sold her once they arrived in New York state. Cooley’s fate remains unknown, but the influence of her resilience lived on.

“Although her brave protests didn’t save her,” Canada Post said in Details, “eyewitness accounts added impetus to the growing abolitionist movement in the late 18th century.”

Witnesses to her protests recounted what they saw to John Graves Simcoe, the avowed abolitionist and lieutenant governor of Upper Canada.

Using this testimony, Simcoe introduced new legislation, and the Act to Limit Slavery in Upper Canada was

passed July 9, 1793. This set the stage for the ending of slavery in the province and created a legal refuge for those fleeing slavery in other countries.

While Cooley did not benefit from this legislation, it helped “pave the way for at least 30,000 freedomseeking Black Americans to make the dangerous journey north to Canada over the decades to come,” Canada Post said.

Canada previously honored Cooley’s influence by naming her a person of national historic significance in 2022.

A press release announcing the recognition said, “National historic designations encourage us to acknowledge both the triumphs and the struggles that have led us to the Canada of today, and help us reflect on how to build a more inclusive society for today and future generations.”

The experts who worked with Canada Post in creating the stamp said, “Bringing the story of Chloe Cooley to life was both a challenge and an honour,” according to Details.

The stamp, designed by Lime Design using illustrations from Rick Jacobsen, shows Cooley in the foreground, but the artists were unable to reference photographs for the portrait.

Peas- AAC Carver, AAC Ardill

Feed Barley- Sirish

CWRS- AAC Wheatland VB, AAC Hockley, AAC Viewfield, AAC Russell

VB, AAC Brandon

Malt Barley- AAC Connect, CDC

Churchill

Oats- CDC Arborg

Soft White- AAC Paramount VB

Seed

Dealer

“With no photographs of Chloe Cooley in existence, the illustration was painstakingly created through extensive consultation with experts in local and regional history, Black history and period fashion, as well as through the use of archival maps, paintings, illustrations and other documents,” Canada Post said.

Costume researcher Shannon Pomakov consulted period artwork, runaway slave ads, plantation archives and other sources to provide advice on Cooley’s attire.

“Her headwrap was particularly important, as it was an expression of her individuality and resilience,” Pomakov said in Details. “Showing Chloe as accurately as possible was a way of giving her the respect and dignity she wasn’t afforded in life.”

The stamp’s background shows Cooley’s abductors piloting her on a boat across the Niagara River. A similar illustration of a boat appears over a map on the first-day cover offered by Canada Post.

The cancel on the FDC pictures two oars and is from Niagara-onthe-Lake, Ontario, which includes Queenston. Canada Post produced 7,000 of these FDCs.

Lowe-Martin printed the stamp by four-color lithography in booklets of six. The quantity printed was 130,000 booklets. The stamp measures 40 millimeters by 32mm.

The booklet of six (product No. 414218111) and the FDC (414218131) are available from Canada Post, and by mail order from Canada Post Customer Service, Box 90022, 2701 Riverside Drive, Ottawa, ON K1V 1J8 Canada; or by telephone from the United States or Canada at 800-5654362, and from other countries at 902-863-6550.

Copyright 2023 by Amos Media; Linn’s Stamp News (www.linns.com). Reprinted with permission.

Photo submitted.

Wainwright RCMP Execute Search Warrant

At Residence Charges Laid For Drug Trafficking

Submitted

Wainwright, Alta. – Wainwright have made arrests following an investigation into a reported problem drug house in the community. On Feb. 2, 2023, Wainwright RCMP with the assistance from the Eastern Alberta Crime Reduction Unit executed a search warrant at a residence on 5 avenue in Wainwright. As a result of the search RCMP seized;

· 275 grams of suspected Methamphetamine

· 66 grams of suspected cocaine

· 33 grams of suspect fentanyl

· A firearm

· $1070 in Canadian currency.

RCMP charged Timothy John Davis (33), a resident of Wainwright with;

· Possession for the purpose of traf -

Submitted

ficking in a controlled substance (x2)

· Possession of stolen property (x2).

RCMP have issued a warrant for Timothy Davis’s arrest.

RCMP have arrested and charged Tammy Lyn Davis (54), a resident of Wainwright, with;

· Possession for the purpose of trafficking (x2)

· Possession of a controlled substance.

Tammy Davis has been taken before a justice of the peace and released with her next court date set for March

2, 2023, at Wainwright Provincial Court

RCMP have arrested and charged Chase Callihoo (35), a resident of Spruce Grove, with;

· Possession for the purpose of trafficking

Chase The Ace Has Come To Vermilion

Drop into the Focus Business Paza on Friday, February 17 at noon to watch the first ticket draw of Focus Society for Support Services Chase the Ace Progressive Draw. Tickets are on sale for $5.00 each and are available at the following locations: Webb’s Ford, Vermilion Chrysler, Christina’s Home Furnishings, The Copper Cork Distillery, The Men’s Den, Night Owl Sweets and Treats and The Focus Business Plaza. Every two weeks, a ticket will be drawn at noon and the winner wins

20% of the tickets sales, they are then eligible to draw a card from a deck of cards and if they draw the ACE OF DIAMONDS, they will take home the progressive draw winnings. If the Ace is not drawn, the progressive pot is carried over to the next draw.

Ticket sales cutoff for each draw is 5:00 pm the Thursday before the draw date. Tickets are only valid for one draw; a new ticket must be purchased for each draw. For more information, call Focus at 780-8534121 or visit the website at www. focussociety.ca.

· Possession of stolen property (x2).

Chase Calihoo has been taken before a justice of the peace and released with her next court date set for March 2, 2023, at Wainwright Provincial Court

RCMP have arrested and charged Corrine Chaisson (23), a resident of Wainwright with Fail to comply with conditions of release (x2). She additionally was arrested on outstanding warrants from a separate investigation. Corrine Chaisson was taken before a Justice of the Peace and has been remanded for court on Feb. 16, 2023.

“ As a result of the hard work by officers of the Wainwright RCMP working in close collaboration with the East -

ern Alberta RCMP Crime Reduction Unit, we were able to raid a known drug house in our community. “ says Sergeant Michael Miller Detachment Commander of Wainwright RCMP,” homes such as this are burdens on a community often associated with stolen property and weapons.”

Wainwright RCMP are asking the public’s assistance in reporting information about suspected drug homes in the community. Please contact Wainwright RCMP at 780-842-4461 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app. available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

Buffalo Trail Public Schools BTPS And Lakeland Collaboration

Submitted

February 3, 2023, BTPS and Lakeland College kicked off the

beginning of new opportunities for students by celebrating the dual credit courses now offered to BTPS

Do you think Alber ta should exempt newspapers from EPR fees?

Other provinces have regulations whereby producers of waste packaging, like fast food companies and consumer packaged goods, pay levies to encouage them to reduce waste packaging The Alber ta government is developing a Provincial Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework with 100% industry funded programs for plastics, packaging, and hazardous household waste

Some provinces require newspapers, which are not packaging, to pay these fees

Recognizing the impor tant role newspapers play in the community, Ontario exempted newspapers from these fees

Your community newspaper is at risk of being included

These fees will put your newspaper at risk We estimate that the cost to Alber ta newspapers to subsidize a province-wide recycling program could run as high as $2 million per year This could deal a crippling blow to local community papers that are already dealing with double digit increases in newsprint , ink, plates and postage costs

Y O U C A N H E L P us by speaking to your MLA about the importance of your community newspaper as a product, it’s not packaging.

2023 Program Information Sessions

students. This semester, the collaboration between the two organizations allows BTPS students a chance to earn high school credits and post-secondary credits which prepares them for a smooth transition to higher education and potential careers.

To kick off this exciting partnership, a big event was held with students, staff from both organizations, and the Board of Trustees in attendance. During the event at Lakeland Trades Centre in Vermilion, students had the opportunity

to learn more about the dual credit program and how it will benefit their future educational and career goals, as well as tour the campus.

Both BTPS and Lakeland are committed to providing students with a high-quality education that prepares them for success in their future careers. We believe that our partnership provides a unique and valuable opportunity for students, and we are excited to see the positive impact it will have on their lives. It is an amazing opportunity outside of the high school classroom.

Photo submitted.