965

Dr. Brooke Peden Opens New Practice

Lorna Hamilton

Reporter

The Town of Vermilion presented Dr. Brooke Peden’s independent Chiropractor practice located in the Prairie Place Plaza at #201 5208 46 Avenue with a welcome plaque and did a ribbon cutting on February 24.

Deputy Mayor Rob Pulyk and Councillor Paul Conlon along with Mary Lee Prior, Manager Economic Development was on hand for the ribbon cutting.

that it is great to have another ribbon cutting and said that it is really good news.

“I think it’s great that Dr. Peden, has chosen to continue with her business in the Town of Vermilion instead of moving it out of town. It shows that Vermilion is becoming the preferred location to do business and that says a lot about our community. She obviously sees the long-term benefits of

have to offer. It is always great to see economic growth in Vermilion, and we hope that anyone interested in starting a business here will contact Mary Lee Prior-Manager of Economic Development for details about our great community,” said Pulyk.

Dr. Peden’s clinic is open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday’s 8:45 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday’s from 8:45 a.m.

pediatric adjustments and spinal decompression. The best way to book an appointment is by calling 780-8537752 or online at http://vermilionchiropractor.janeapp.com.

“I am very grateful for the Town of Vermilion and the surrounding communities for trusting me with their chiropractic needs and supporting me with the opening of my own business. I look forward to continuing to grow my

From left, Councillor Paul Conlon, Dr. Brooke Peden, Deputy Mayor Rob Pulyk and Mary Lee Prior, Manager Economic Development during the ribbon cutting. Photo submitted

Ever Wanted To Own A Sleddog?

Angela Mouly Reporter

Seppala Siberan Tours near Kitscoty has three Seppala Siberian Sleddog puppies for sale. Owner, Dale Swan, says companionship is their most desirable quality and aside from dog sledding, they can be trained to be indoor dogs, and some people have even trained them to be service dogs.

A litter of six females, he said they finally got their purebred status in the Continental Kennel Club. One sold to a musher from Ontario, who finished the Yukon Quest - 100 Mile Race and stopped in last week to pick out a puppy on her way back. Swan only plans to keep one, one will be shipped to northern Alberta, and the other three remain unspoken for.

The Seppala Siberian Sleddog Project keeps track of all the purebred dogs by getting them registered, etc., he found out his kennel has one of the highest percentages of Seppalas in Alberta, and said they will be registering all of his dogs this year.

“It’s extremely important to train dogs from the time they are young - especially with Seppalsas because in my own personal experience if they do one thing wrong, they will keep making the mistake if you don’t correct them right away. They are really smart, but if they get away with things it’s harder to break them of the habit,” said Swan.

Skills that Swan trains his dogs to know include various dogsled commands, as well as common tasks like how to give gentle hugs, shake a paw, or back up. Proper training he says, continues constantly throughout their whole lives because you don’t run them as much in the summer with the heat, they need to be reminded for a couple runs to jog their memory of the cues each season.

Swan has been dog sledding for approximately 15 years. He recently completed a one year certificate as a veterinary medical assistant at Lakeland College, and said he

can use some of the knowledge to better care for his dogs when he is at home offering tours or on the road competing.

“I can tell a lot easier if the dog is having a problem, and narrow it down quicker to what the issue is. It also helped to know what tools to keep with me for anything that may come up,” said Swan.

He plans to start another two year diploma course in September to become a registered veterinary technician, and as well as helping his own dogs he hopes to get a job at a clinic to help others with their animals.

Swan offered two dog sledding tours this year, helping people cross things they wanted to experience in life off their bucket lists. With his business, he aims to keep dog sledding alive.

“Some people think it’s archaic, and don’t believe too many people do it with all of the new Ski-Doos and machinery out there. With a sled dog team you don’t run out of gas, they just get tired out. I have always loved dogs and the outdoors, and putting the two together working with the dogs is fulfilling.

It’s therapeutic for my Dystonia,” said Swan.

Dystonia he said is a rare genetic disorder

that he deals with 100 per cent of the time, 24 / 7. It’s more mind than body he said, with his brain firing off rapid impulses to his body. Since having deep brain stimulation, he does not have as many random spasms.

“I don’t let it hinder me with the dog sledding or anything I do. If I can’t do something, I adapt or modify it to make a way for me to do it differently,” said Swan.

Finding the sport wholesome because it keeps people connected to their dogs and the outdoors, he said you also have to know survival skills to participate on the trail including knowing to dress appropriately for the weather and how to live in cold conditions. Racing is a sport in itself, and he said you can also use dog sledding for the simple enjoyment of moving things without having to carry them.

“Sprint sleds are made for small four - ten mile races, touring sleds are for mid - long distance races where you need more gear (food, clothing, food for the dogs, jackets for the dogs) so you are prepared for anything you run into in the wilderness, and freight sleds can be used just for hauling stuff,” said Swan.

He did not race this year as he waited

seven months for ankle surgery to remove bone fragments and smooth out a jagged bone which he underwent on February 9.

Expecting a six-eight week recovery, he said he is currently not able to bear any weight on it. Because crutches and snow and ice don’t get along, he said he’s growing a little frustrated because he’d like to be out running the dogs.

“If I don’t take care of myself then I can’t take care of my dogs, and I have to take care of mine and my dog’s health before I can do anything else. My girlfriend is currently feeding them and running them in the kennel to blow off energy and steam off of their chains,” said Swan.

He thanked family and friends for helping him care for the dogs while he is recovering. Already preparing for next year, he plans to fix things up around the kennel, change things on the dog box and plan some simple training to make sure he and the dogs are ready to go.

“Next year I expect to be up and running 100 and 10 per cent, running the dogs by both competing in races and taking people out on tours,” said Swan. For serious inquiries you can contact Dale at 780-872-3575.

Sixteen week old pups at Seppala Siberian Tours. Photos submitted This pup is for sale. This pup is for sale.

Angela Mouly Reporter

Vermilion Town Council discussed a range of topics on February 21, including the current lack of doctors. New replacement doctors are not scheduled to arrive in the community until at least fall.

Councillor Rob Pulyk said, “A couple doctors have been offered a position in Vermilion. Was there an interest and when?”

Councillor Rob Snow said, “From my understanding they have to do a practicum before they are allowed to pass their tests and come, but they are absolutely interested. They have been vetted by the folks at the hospital. They are starting their practicums in July, and so we have no firm dates on when they will be here yet.”

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The Vermilion District Health Care Providers Attraction & Retention Committee met on October 17, and Greg Smith verified that physicians are still given a $10,000 incentive for choosing to practice in Vermilion. Councillor Snow said the potential of new doctors was a big topic during the committee’s meeting on February 13.

Councillor Paul Conlon was sworn in as Deputy Mayor for the months of March and April.

Regarding Infrastructure and Planning, Councillor Pulyk asked for an update on the cost associated with repairing three trucks and said, “For this year we are going ahead with summer flower baskets as part of the budget, but not fall and winter baskets to save money?”

“That’s correct; fall and winter baskets

Dear Editor

are not occurring this year. I will have to get back to you on the repairs, but it is strictly the cost of parts,” said Ben McPhee.

The Mayor noted a potential difference in the number of summer positions, and CAO Kevin Lucas said, “We have cut back on the number of summer students but you are hopefully not going to see a difference.”

He also said their goal with the engineering for the former sewer treatment plant is to have a tender out to start late winter or early spring of next year.

Of note in Economic Development was that the Town of Vermilion had a booth at the Innovating Commerce Serving Communities (ICSC) conference in Whistler, British Columbia this year instead of just attending sessions, meetings and networking.

Manager of Economic Development Mary

Lee Prior, Mayor Greg Throndson, and CAO Kevin Lucas attended.

“The booth was a great success as we were approached by several developers, franchises and realtors that we would not have met if we were just walking around. Overall, we came back with some solid contacts and have followed up on some great leads for investment for Vermilion,” said Prior.

She also attended a drone conference virtually at Lakeland College and said Alberta HUB is working on grants for an upcoming drone project in the region. She noted a couple of parties interested in retail and industrial lots. In addition she noted upcoming businesses including one going into the car wash by Circle K, DB Delicious Bites in Hubkins, and Studio 04 in the back of Elevation.

Letter To The Editor

A recent Canadian Press article reports that the Alberta Government is contemplating tax breaks for oil and gas companies to encourage clean-up of wells that are not producing. The game is given away in the opening sentence where it points out that well clean-up is a legal obligation of the companies which they took on when they were granted their lease.

We should not be surprised that

the UCP is giving public dollars to oil companies at a time when, financially they are doing very well. After all, this is not a government that serves Albertans – it sees that its mission is to serve oil companies. So the government will take public dollars and put them in the pockets of millionaires, many of whom don’t even reside in Alberta. A recent CBC news article pointed out that although profits in oil and gas are at record levels, reinvestment in Alberta has fallen off dramatically. Which means any money going to relieve companies of their legal responsibilities to clean up well sites will simply be pocketed.

Call Scott: 780-581-5693 | Greg: 780-787-1246

Or visit us at www.kseeds.ca

Where will the money come from that we will give to these carpetbaggers? It will be taken from programs like Education, Social Services, or other government departments that

serve the needs of Albertans. This government has supervised the decline in Education funding from the level where our investment in Education was the highest in the country to the level where it is the lowest. Our medical system is struggling because this government has failed to adequately fund it to keep staffing at levels that allow the system to operate smoothly. Since the health system is staff – dependent, it will be years before we can hire and train sufficient staff to overcome the deficits incurred by underfunding. But this government wants to take that money out of Health and other departments to give to oil and gas company executives and investors. Even when those companies are experiencing record profits.

Bernie M. Huedepohl

Dealer for Foremost fertilizer & grain bins and Northstar forage seed.

5.5 Miles north of Mannville

Dawn

Hames

Columnist Souvlaki is Greek in origin. This is an exceptional way to do meat that is full of flavor. You will need skewers for this recipe.

Souvlaki

1 lb – 1 1/4 lbs meat to cut into cubes such as beef, moose, venison, pork, lamb or chicken

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 tablespoons red wine

Juice of 1/2 lemon

1 teaspoon rosemary

Helen Row Toews Columnist

Slow down and buy a map

We live in an era where we expect everything to happen at a lightning pace.

People want to scale mountains, explore the universe and the ocean, drive the fastest, most powerful vehicle, and choose the quickest grocery line— just once.

We read books and watch movies and television programs filled with speed, adventure, and thrills. I mean, did James Bond ever drive a Volkswagen? Or take the long way home? No. He sped along in a high-tech car with all the gadgets, accomplished his death-defying mission in an hour and a half, and ended by quaffing martinis in a ritzy bar, all without mussing his hair.

People are constantly on the move. Streams of traffic congest the roads, flights are taken worldwide each day, and, if we can’t travel physically, we travel via the Internet,

1 teaspoon oregano

1 teaspoon thyme

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2 bay leaves

3 cloves garlic pressed

1 onion grated (optional)

Cut the meat into 1” cubes and place in a glass or stainless-steel bowl. Stir the olive oil into the cubed meat. In a small bowl prepare the marinade by combining the lemon juice, rosemary, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, bay leaves, garlic and onion. To release a full aroma from the rosemary, oregano and thyme crush the dried herbs in your hands before adding them to the marinade or use a mortar

and pestle. Do not crush the bay leaves, but leave whole to be easily removed and discarded. Do not eat the bay leaves. There is a piece of small kitchen equipment called a garlic press that does wonders with the garlic for this recipe. If you do not have garlic press then mince the garlic very finely. The grated onion is optional, but if you are using venison, it is a necessity in removing overt gaminess and developing a rich flavour. Pour the marinade onto the cubed meat and stir to coat the meat. Let the meat marinade 6 to 8 hours refrigerated. The olive oil draws out the pro inflammatory arachidonic acid from the meat, while the lemon and red wine tenderize the meat. If you are opposed to red wine you can substitute

Prairie Wool

where we expect prompt Wi-Fi access.

Sometimes we miss out on the sights when we go so fast. Although, if you’re like Esther and me, driving in Montreal and taking directions from an irritating satellite navigation system, you might get a super view of one sight over and over again. With navigational assistance, we went across the Jacques Cartier Bridge five times. Each time trying to get somewhere else. (This is where the advice on buying a paper map comes into play.)

That same navigation told us confidently that, to reach a bistro we fancied on the beautiful Ile d’Orléans near Quebec City, we had to turn right and drive five kilometres down a deserted country road.

“Your destination is on the left,” Google Lady announced in her smarmy, robotic voice. We gazed at rolling farmland as far as the eye could see.

“Is she crazy?” Esther spluttered as I pulled into a muddy approach surrounded by corn.

“You have arrived,” the voice assured her.

We also relied on Google Lady when winding our way through the busy streets of both aforementioned cities. Periodically she would

blurt random information.

“In 400 metres, drive straight.” Well, what the heck. I was driving straight and had voiced no immediate plans to turn. I guess I might have glanced to the right for a moment. Did that count? Did she suppose she could read my mind?

Then, at several critical intersections, where it would have been nice to know which way to bloody go, she lapsed into a stony silence.

All that aside, sometimes it’s nice to slow down and smell the roses, as they say. I know I’ve been as guilty as anyone in my thirst for haste. (You can’t get a nickname like Wheels without it.) My first taste of speed was on the back of a horse and then, when a little older, while driving Dad’s old blue half-ton up the Far Town hills to pick Saskatoon berries.

In fairness, Dad started it. Our family would sit with pails of berries on our laps as he shifted gears and accelerated hard to give us a good start at the top. Then, he’d throw it in neutral, and we’d coast, exhilarating in the freedom of a good, steep hill.

Yes, we’re obsessed with doing things

red wine vinegar. Many of the flavonoids in the herbs are wonderful antioxidants. Thread the meat onto skewers. Additional vegetables can be added to the skewers. Vegetable choices can be yellow, red or green peppers, whole button mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, chunks of onion and zucchini pieces. You can roast in the oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, and then turn and roast for another 20 minutes. In the summer you can grill on a barbeque heated to 400 degrees about 6 or 7 minutes per side, for a total of 12-15 minutes. I cannot describe how wonderful these smells as it is cooking. Once you taste these, this recipe is sure to become one of your favourites for both family meals and company entertaining.

quickly these days, but perhaps it’s worth buying a map and meandering a bit. Although, to be honest, Esther and I enjoyed laughing at Google lady’s expense, and we’ll never forget the Jacques Cartier Bridge.

Find Helen and her latest books at helentoews.com

Kirk Hughes

Submitted

The Islay Curling Club, represented by Steven Westergaard, was on hand to present a generous donation to the County of Vermilion River Fire Service on February 24. Representing the County were; Islay Fire Chief George Steiner, County Fire Chief Kirk Hughes, Reeve Stacey Hryciuk and Councillor Dale Swyripa.

The donation was raised during the Islay Bonspiel held January 27th - 29th, to which there were 14 teams that competed, a delicious Saturday evening banquet, silent and live auctions as well as food concession.

“Our volunteer firefighters are usually the ones serving their community,” stated County Fire Chief Kirk Hughes, “so this highlights

Farm Curl Celebrates

70 Years

Angela Mouly Reporter

Islay Curling Club Donates

the type of positive relationships our residents have with County Firefighters that they’d think of us to gift this donation to.”

The Islay Curling Club is hoping that the event becomes an annual tradition. The monies raised will be directed towards a newly formed benevolent fund.

The Vermilion Agricultural Society hosted the 70th Annual Farm Curl from February 16 - 18. The arena was full of excitement with over 100 participants, and they were thankful to have the support from over 50 sponsors.

“Farm curl is just one of those traditions we’ve always had to bring out the community and celebrate the comradery between town and country. It’s quite the social event; you do have some serious curling going on, but the majority is to get out and have fun,” said coordinator Jason Zayac. “Thank you to all of the participants and sponsors, as well as to the Lakeland Pipes & Drums band for marching us in, and Nick’s Family Restaurant for supplying supper on Saturday night.”

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From left, Mayor Greg Throndson, Curling Club President Carter Babij, and Ag Society President Justin Clark throwing the first rocks. Photo submitted

Photo submitted

Dr. Reynold Bergen, BCRC Science Director

Submitted

Cow-calf margins get tighter each time you feed a pregnant cow through the winter, only to have her calf die before weaning. Three leading causes of preweaning death loss are diarrhea, navel ill and bovine respiratory disease (BRD). Not all calf illness and death can be prevented, especially when the weather gets bad, but remembering some basic principles can help avoid some of them.

Dr. John Campbell (Western College of Veterinary Medicine) led a team of researchers and producers from the 2013-18 Western Canadian Cow-Calf Surveillance Network to study how common calf diarrhea, navel ill and BRD are, how they are typically treated, and to learn which management practices can help avoid them (“Improving beef calf health: frequency of disease syndromes, uptake of management practices following calving, and potential for antimicrobial use reduction in western Canadian herds”; doi.org/10.1093/ tas/txac151).

What They Did

Cow-calf operators from Alberta (48), Saskatchewan (24) and Manitoba (17) with 89 to 684 cows were surveyed in 2017 about their calving and herd management practices, when and how often calves were treated for BRD, navel ill and calfhood diarrhea, and how they were treated. The researchers then deciphered what practices were effective at avoiding calf health problems regardless of herd size or geography.

What They Learned

Bovine respiratory disease is not just a feedlot issue! On average, 4.9% of calves were treated for BRD before weaning. Most of these (3.9%) occurred before two months of age, and preweaning death loss averaged 0.5%. However, some herds treated up to 19% of calves before two months of age, up to 25% before weaning, and experienced up to 2.3% death loss. That’s higher than some

Keeping Calves Healthy

bottom-end operations by any stretch of the imagination. All the herds participating in this study had a working relationship with a veterinarian.

Calfhood diarrhea: The average herd treated nearly 3% of calves for diarrhea before weaning, nearly all before one month of age. Treatment rates were much higher in some herds (e.g., over 8% treated before a month of age). Death losses averaged 0.5% but reached 2% in some herds.

Navel ill: The average herd treated 2% of calves were treated for navel ill, though some herds treated up to 12% of calves

THE KEYS TO REDUCING THE RISKS OF THESE DISEASES WERE:

Social distancing: allowing cattle to spread out and calve on clean calving grounds makes it harder for diseases to spread among animals. Calving on pasture decreased the risk of both BRD and calf diarrhea compared to calving in barns or corrals. Similarly, the risk of all three diseases were lower in herds that moved newly calved pairs out of the main herd and to a clean nursery pasture (or viceversa).

Don’t let germs build up: The risk of calfhood disease was lower in operations that did not calve on the winter feeding grounds. Calving heifers and cows separately also reduced the risks of all three diseases.

Don’t buy more germs (especially close to calving season!): The risk of BRD was lower in herds that did not bring newly purchased cows or calves into the herd during calving or before breeding.

Minimize stress: Stress depresses the immune system. The risks of disease (especially BRD and calf diarrhea) were lower in herds that handled cows and calves less frequently.

Strengthen immunity: The risk of calf diarrhea was lower in operations that practiced body condition scoring (BCS). Heifers and cows that are fed and managed for optimal BCS at calving will produce higher quality colostrum, which is essential to protecting

calves against disease early in life. Vaccination is also critical. Most farms vaccinated calves for both bacteria and viruses that cause BRD, and most vaccinated the cow herd for viral pathogens. Only a third of farms also vaccinated the cow herd for the bacterial BRD pathogens, but those that did had a lower risk of BRD in calves.

So, What Does This Mean… to You?

How do your treatment rates compare to these? Which of these management practices are worth adopting or refining on your operation? None of these practices are silver bullets on their own – they work together and add up.

Work with your veterinarian to develop a prevention-based herd health plan tailored to your facilities, landbase, workforce and disease history. Review your vaccination program (calves and cows), and how you usually prevent and treat calfhood diseases when they arise. For example, calfhood diarrhea in the first month of age is usually caused by viruses, and electrolytes are usually the best treatment. Save the antibiotics for the calves that have a fever and have stopped nursing. Don’t mass-treat all calves with anti-

biotics to prevent BRD unless your veterinarian has recommended it.

Optimal nutrition ensures that cows and heifers are in good body condition score at calving, give birth to a healthy calf and produce high quality colostrum. This will also help cows rebreed sooner after calving. Allow newborn calves to get their fill of colostrum before tagging, vaccinating or castrating them.

You can’t prevent lousy weather during calving, but you can help give your calves a fighting chance.

The Beef Cattle Research Council is funded by the Canadian Beef Cattle CheckOff. The BCRC partners with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, provincial beef industry groups and governments to advance research and technology transfer supporting the Canadian beef industry’s vision to be recognized as a preferred supplier of healthy, high-quality beef, cattle, and genetics.

This article was written by Dr. Reynold Bergen, Science Director at the Beef Cattle Research Council. It originally appeared in the February 2023 issue of Canadian Cattlemen magazine and is reprinted with permission.

Black Angus calf.

Two red and white faced calves in spring. Photos submitted

- Angus & Simmental 2 year old bulls

Open House

March 9th & 10th

What’s A Bull Worth To Your Operations

BCRC

Submitted

If you are buying a bull this year, estimating the return on your investment should be one of the primary factors that goes into your decision. Herd bulls represent half of your future calf crop and will significantly influence the profitability of your calves. Several

of the key factors that influence the profitability of a cow-calf operation include total weight of calves weaned and feed efficiency, both of which can be significantly impacted by the genetics brought in when buying a bull.

A bull will contribute more to the genetics of your herd after a single breeding season than a cow will

contribute over her entire lifespan.

It is critical to consider your production goals before making a purchase.

Think about your future calf crop: will you develop your own replacement heifers or are they all destined for a feedlot? Are you intending to finish your own animals on grass? Each scenario requires different genetics to

best suit the needs of your operation. Just how much you can justify spending on those genetics is a separate matter.

The BCRC’s Bull Valuation Calculator is a practical decision-making tool to help you estimate the breakeven price of a bull: the point at which a bull will have paid for itself. From there, you can use this information to decide what you can afford to pay for an animal—it will provide a benchmark value to serve as a guide when purchasing the best possible bull within that price range.

Bull prices vary significantly which can make it difficult to determine value without factoring in details related to performance and management. The calculator does not account for genetic evaluation of individual animals, but rather factors related to management, input costs and future markets that can be estimated on-farm.

As an example, consider a herd bull on a farm in Eastern Canada. Smaller average herd and pasture sizes likely mean predicted death loss may be smaller and years of service may be greater than for a bull who travels greater distances and has more chance of injury.

The Bull Valuation Calculator allows producers to enter in their own information to get a customized bull value breakeven price.

Buying a less expensive bull does not necessarily mean that he is inferior if his genetics help advance the goals of your operation. Key points to consider are your breeding goals and your budget. However, since the herd bull has so much influence on your calf crop, it very often is the case that you should be buying the best animal you can afford. The Bull Valuation Calculator is one tool available to help obtain a better understanding of what that value may be before purchasing your next herd sire.

Thank you to the BCRC for allowing the reprinting of this article. www. BeefResearch.ca

Submitted

In 2022, the County of Vermilion River took part in a new ALUS initiative called Grazing Forward which supports enhanced grazing projects with local producers. With funding support from Cargill and A&W, the program provides technical and financial resources to implement new grazing management practices on portions of ranches. One of our first grazing participants, Cole Goad, manages 80-90 cow/calf pairs on a half section in the NW part of the County and was eager to take advantage of the new program. “ALUS has really helped us improve our operation, as we are limited on land base, and to rent additional grazing land is near impossible. With ALUS we have been able to graze more cows on the same land base that we have always had.”

Enhanced grazing is a suite of manage-

ALUS Initiative

ment tools that builds rich, healthy soils and increases grass growth. One of those tools, Adaptive Multi-Paddock (AMP) Grazing, uses multiple smaller paddocks, higher stock densities, shorter grazing times, and extended periods of rest in a unique, flexible plan based on careful observation, recordkeeping, and the ability to change along the way – that’s the adaptive part.

AMP grazing provides benefits to both the environment and the livestock operation. The ecosystem services produced include soil health, carbon sequestration, cleaner water, cleaner air, and wildlife habitat. For the producer, AMP grazing buffers against flood and drought, increases forage quantity and utilization, lengthens the grazing season, and improves animal nutrition and overall health. “We are seeing increased production from this land since

OPEN HOUSE

Thursday, March 2, 2023 6:00 pm 8:00 pm

Kitscoty Community Hall

ADMINISTRATION | 780.846.2244

and Regular Sale to follow

WEDNESDAY March 29 AT 9:30 AM

All Breeds Presort and Regular Sale to follow

we have start rotational grazing. We started with 60 pairs for the whole grazing season on this half section. We are now up to 80-90 pairs for the grazing season. We are hoping that we can get this increased to 100 pairs in the future,” Goad says.

Spring workshops outlined the principles of AMP grazing and gave participants the opportunity to work on grazing plans in the company of local experts as well as their peers. “With ALUS we have been able to take training sessions to learn the increased value of rotational grazing and new ways to look at grazing practices. We have been able to get to smaller paddocks with funding help from ALUS that has allowed for increased rest to each parcel,” says Goad.

Once their plans were put in action on the ground, ALUS reimbursed 50% of the establishment cost for things like

electric fencing, energizers, portable and temporary fencing tools, permanent wildlife friendly fencing, and pasture water systems. ALUS will also pay an ongoing per acre annual payment for the management and maintenance of the grazing projects.

By the end of this year, seven new projects resulted in 38 new grazing paddocks totaling 460 acres in the County. ALUS Vermilion River is looking to expand on the program in 2023 by adding more producers who are new to enhanced grazing or those who have tried it but need some extra support for their operation. We are looking for a small group of producers to participate in a 2-part facilitated workshop on March 15 and 29 in Blackfoot. Contact the ALUS Coordinator, Chris Elder at 780-853-7844 or celder@county24.com for more information.

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ALUS Enhanced Grazing Workshops

Part 1 - March 15

Part 2 - March 29

- March 29

10:00 am - 3:00 pm

10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Learn How to:

- implement enhanced grazing principles on your land

- increase forage production and improve animal health

Blackfoot Hall

- improve soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, drought resilience

- develop a grazing management plan

- access funding to install paddock fences and watering systems*

- receive annual payments for project management and maintenance*

All projects will be considered but only those that are approved and implemented will be eligible for enrolment in the ALUS Vermilion River program.

All projects will be considered but only those that are approved and implemented will be eligible for enrolment in the ALUS Vermilion River program

Space is limited. All materials, lunch, and snacks are provided

To Register contact:

Blackfoot Hall CHRIS ELDER - ALUS Program Coordinator 780-853-7844

celder@county24 com

*Project funding provided by Cargill and A&W

Walking Through Grief

Submitted

Dictionary: Normal, ordinary, conforming to type, standard or regular pattern.

Psychological: Any behaviour or condition which is usual, expected, typical or conform to pre-existing standard.

I seem to be hearing more comments such as “I can’t wait to get back to normal,” or after a life changing experience, “when will life be normal again and when will I feel normal?”

Normal following the pandemic.

Normal following a trauma event.

Normal following the death of some one loved.

Normal following any life change

CHANGE – LOSS- GRIEF

Normal becomes a memory we have but not a normal that we can return to. The more we strive for the return of ‘normal’,

Normal

What Is Normal?

the more we become anxious, depressed and fearful of what lies ahead. Life has changed forever and what we had some control over in the past we now feel helpless about.

What can we do to move into, embrace, a “New Normal”?

If the normal you knew was one of times of joy, accomplishment, peace, and relationship even though it is painful to remember, it is good to go there in memory and gratitude. Remember

outside of your sanctuary (safe place). Go on an outing to a store or for lunch with a friend, or more courageously, on your own. It may feel frightening and you are anxious but try it again. Maybe reduce the outing to a walk. Find a gratitude.

Sit and observe 5 Meaningful Moments; 5 things you can see, 4 things you can feel, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell and 1 thing you can taste. Find a gratitude for each thing.

You were dreaming dreams and now

sports, caring, giving, a planner, artistic. This may be a time to revisit the ‘you’ from earlier times as part of your ‘New Normal’ Be gentle with yourself. It may be two steps forward and one step back but you are making a step. Don’t freeze at the fork in the road and choose not to move forward. Risk to rebuild. Seek support, companionship of a friend, reading, seek a counsellor or support group, who are also finding their way on the ‘New Normal’ path. Find a little joy, hope and

Peyton Hess

Club Reporter

Only four months until our Annual Achievement Day! Save the date for May 31, 2023 and join us in Minburn for our Show & Sale. This month, we held our club public speaking competition. There were lots of amazing speeches presented to us and a few of our members will move on to Districts on May 4th. Our senior members Camille Kassian & Kasen Swanson, Intermediate member Olivia Saruk, and Junior member Peyton Hess will all be competing on May 4th in Mannville at the Elks Hall.

NOTICE OF DECISION OF DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

Discretionary Use

District:

Permit No.:

Location:

Use Approved:

Building (Riding Arena) for Agricultural Use and a Variance for location, setback and height.

Date of Notice: February 21, 2023

Permit Valid on: March 14, 2023

A Development Permit for a discretionary use does not take effect until twenty-one (21) days after the date of this notice provided that no appeals have been registered with this office.

Any person affected by a development permit for a discretionary use may appeal the decision in writing stating reasons for the appeal along with a four hundred ($400.00) dollar appeal fee. The appeal must be submitted within twenty-one (21) days of notice to the Secretary of the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board of the County of Vermilion River.

Michelle Harvey, EP Development Officer

Pink Shirt Day At St. Jerome’s School

Derwent Fundraiser

Our duo fundraiser with the Derwent Golden Age Club and The Derwent Ag Society was a huge success with over 270 guests. Our event entailed a perogy supper, dance, and a live and silent auction. Thanks to Ed McCormack for being our auctioneer. Thanks to all our supporters and helpers to create such an enjoyable evening. Photo submitted

St. Jerome’s had Pink Shirt Day on February 21st. It was also Pyjama Day and Shrove Tuesday which we celebrated by cooking pancakes and sausage for about 400 people. It was a lot of fun and delicious. Photos submitted

AWNA BLANKET AND LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

ComInG eVentS

COIN SHOW and SALE – Canada’s largest. 11 & 12 March 2023, 10 am – 4:30 pm. Lions Centre 11113 – 113 Street, Edmonton. Free market evaluations. Dealers from across Canada, auctions, displays, coin striking. Family friendly. www.edmontoncoinclub.com.

ComInG eVentS

JO MICHALUK (Foesier) who resides in Penhold, is turning 80 years old. Everyone is invited to her birthday party on March 11th at Crammond Hall – 12:30 to 6:00 p.m. RSVP is not required. Bring your favorite dish, dress as you wish, and BYOB.Catherine@catherinebrownlee.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@xplornet.ca or send resume to Vauxhall Lions, P.O. Box 729, Vauxhall, Alberta T0K 2K0.

Feed and Seed

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

WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN - Heated, Mixed, Tough, Light, Bugs, Spring Thrashed....Barley, Wheat, Oats,

VOICE CLASSIFIEDS

For Sale

Paper roll end at the Vermilion Voice, $10.

GIVe aWaY

Do you have give aways? Until further notice The Vermilion Voice will run your ad for FREE. Call 780-8536305 or email vermilionvoice@gmail.com

Peas, Flax, Canola. “On Farm Pickup”. Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252.

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.

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.

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420. www.pioneerwest.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.

FULL TIME

FRONT COUNTER PERSON/CASHIER

VERMILION PACKERS

Apply in person with resume to 4825-47th AVE OR CALL RICK @

LLOYD SPCA

BAILEY

Hello My Name Is Bailey! I am a Large Mixed Breed! Bailey is Spayed, Microchipped, and Vaccinated. I am a fun loving goofball, I love to play and race around the yard! I Love interactive toys, snowballs, and belly rubs. I am working on learning good leash etiquette as well as working

Now I'm here at the shelter but to be honest I don't like it very much. I would rather be in a loving home with a family to give me lots of attention! I would love to go on adventures with you and be your side kick! Please call the shelter at 780-875-2809 to inquire more about me!

www.lloydminsterspca.com

Sponsored By The Vermilion Voice

HOROSCOPE/SUDOKU AND SOLUTIONS

ARIES

Don't let friends or relatives rule your life. Don't hesitate to come right out and ask for the pertinent information. Unexpected visitors are likely. Be prepared to do your chores early.

TAURUS

Keep your ears open, especially to those who care about you. Stabilize your own position by locking up your savings. You may be up for some changes in your home.

GEMINI

Express your interest if you want the relationship to progress. Be discreet about any information you uncover. Don't make unreasonable promises.

CANCER

Relatives will be happy that you dropped by. Deception is probable if you don't use discrimination. Be sure to question any detail that you feel could leave you in a precarious position at a later date.

LEO

You can't lose today unless you get involved in gossip or overwork to the point of exhaustion. Don't be too shy to promote your own interests.

VIRGO

Take time to deal with legal documents and the affairs of people who you may be indebted to. You will be prone to carelessness that could result in accidents. You will be emotional about family matters.

LIBRA

Try not to be so demonstrative. There'll be difficulties if you spend too much. Expect to have more people on your domestic scene.

SCORPIO

Try to accommodate them without infringing on your own responsibilities. Avoid being overly opinionated or you will alienate friends. You can make career moves that will be prosperous.

SAGITTARIUS

It's time to reevaluate your motives. You should want to feel good about yourself and your goals. Don't let your partner start any arguments. Passion should be redirected positively.

CAPRICORN

You can avoid hassles by sticking to your work and refusing to get involved in gossip or idle chatter. This will not be the best day to initiate change. You can come up with future trends in creative fields.

AQUARIUS

Abrupt changes concerning your professional position are evident. Your creative ideas must be put to good use. Verbal abuse could lead to carelessness.

PISCES

You may have a problem with coworkers if you try to tell them what to do. You'll be prone to tears if your mate is harsh with you today. Pursue outdoor activities or any physical exertion.

7 4

4 1 2 9 2 6 7 6 5 1 1 7 8 4 2 5 3 6

Vermilion Elementary School News

Karen King

Submitted

Grade 4B and 5B started swimming on February 21 and swim until March 2. The kids have been having an absolute blast. We would like to thank Jackie, Carmen and Avery for their assistance and support. We would also like to thank Phil, our bus driver, for making all the trips with us.

February 22 was Pink Shirt Day at VES. It was wonderful to see so many students and staff supporting this important event.

On February 23, VES hosted our Celebration of Learning. This presented opportunities for VES families to be more engaged in their child’s learning and school, to celebrate their child and all they have learned this year, to demonstrate the importance of education to their child, to be informed of what their child is learning at school, and to have fun and connect with the VES school family. We thank the many families who attended.

VES will have our Kindergarten Information Night on March 8 from 7:00-8:00. Your child is eligible to attend kindergarten in VES in the fall if he/she is 5 years of age on or before December 31, 2023. Please bring a copy of your child’s birth certificate to the information night. Some reasons to enroll your child in kindergarten in VES include child centred programs, developmentally appropriate programs, community field trips, strong literacy and numeracy programs, parent/community engagement, comprehensive music program, breakfast program, hot lunch program, playschool program, before/after school care program, kindercare program, integrated virtues program, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology services, VIBE program, social emotional coaches. To access the online registration form, go to the VES website: https://ves.btps.ca/parents/registration-form. Call 780-853-5444 for more infor

CAREER OPPORTUNITY JR ROBSON SCHOOL

Vermilion Administrative Assistant

POSITION DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS:

J. R. Robson School requires a full-time Administrative Assistant. Applicants must have a minimum of a Certificate or Diploma in O ffice Administration from an accredited college. For more information, please check out full listing at www.btps.ca under the career tab.

CLOSING DATE: Until a suitable candidate is selected. Buffalo Trail Public Schools is pleased to accept all qualified applications, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. The successful applicant will be required to submit a current Criminal Record Check.

OhBaby

Babies of 2022

mation or email Sheila Doherty at Sheila. Doherty@btps.ca.

Parent Teacher Interviews are fast approaching. Kindergarten and Grades 1-6 will be on March 22 from 4:30-7:30. As well, Kindergarten will have a second day on March 24 from 9:00-3:00. School Conference Manager will be available starting on March 6 to book a time that is convenient for

your family.

Dates to Remember: Mar 1 – Dress up as a Superhero or a Super Hero; March 8 - Kindergarten Information Night; Mar 10 – BTPS Learning Day – No School; Mar 20-24 – Scholastic Book Fair; Mar 21 – Next School Council Meeting at 6:30; Mar 22 –Parent Teacher Interviews; April 3 – Dress up Mustache, Beard, or Hat Day.

Published

Tuesday, March 14th, 2023

Parents or grandparents, if your child or grandchild was born in 2022 send us their picture to be showcased in our “Babies of 2022” special. (Published in full color)

Bring the photo into The Voice or send it by mail or e-mail. A close-up or head shot would be preferred. The cost will be $45.00 + GST

Babies of 2022

Cut out and send in along with the baby’s photo. Please print and include $47.25 (payable to The Voice)

Vermilion Voice 5006-50 Ave. Vermilion, AB

T9X 1A2

Ph: 780-853-6305

Fax: 780-853-5426

E-mail: vermilionvoice@gmail.com

www.accountingvermilionab.ca

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Job description

Full-Time accounting position to provide bookkeeping, accounting, and taxation services to our clients. Our o ce strives to create a positive work environment by providing a exible work-life balance, along with professional growth with modernized programs and challenging assignments.

Responsibilities

Tasks include delivering a range of public accounting services to a variety of clients on time and within budget. With strong attention to detail and the ability to communicate e ectively both verbally and written. This position will be responsible for bookkeeping, payroll, reconciling accounts, working papers, compilation engagements and tax returns.

Qualifications

The successful individual should be self-motivated and professional. Familiarity with accounting programs including CaseWare, QuickBooks Online, Sage and Microsoft O ce would be an asset. Applicants should have an Accounting or Business diploma or degree.

Photo submitted

Pink Shirt Day At VES School

Box 69, 4912 50 Avenue Kitscoty, AB T0B 2P0

PH: (780) 846-2244 PH: (780) 853-5492

Notice of Public Hearing

Bylaw 23-05

A bylaw of the County of Vermilion River in the Province of Alberta, for the purpose of adopting Robinwood Area Structure Plan

TAKE NOTICE THAT PURSUANT Section 606 of the Municipal Government Act, being Chapter M-26 of the Statutes of Alberta and amendments thereto, and Bylaw 21-20 – Advertising Bylaw, the Council of the County of Vermilion River gives notice that it intends to hold a Public Hearing in consideration of the adoption of Bylaw 23-05, being a bylaw for the purpose of adopting Robinwood Area Structure Plan AND WHEREAS, Council deems it necessary to adopt such a bylaw;

NOW THEREFORE, the Public Hearing into the proposed Bylaw will be held on:

DATE: March 14th, 2023

TIME & LOCATION: 9:05AM at the Kitscoty Legion, located at 4922-50th Avenue, Kitscoty, AB

Any person wishing to be heard may make written representation to the Council, submitted to planning@county24.com, or by fax at 780-846-2716, or dropped o in the secure mailbox located outside the front door of the County o ce, no later than March 8th, 2023 at 12:00 noon. Any written submissions received will be read aloud by Administration during the Public Hearing.

You may view the Public Hearing and all of the Council meeting by clicking on the meeting registration request on the County website here: Calendar (vermilion-river.com) Instructions on how to make oral submissions during the meeting will be contained in the registration email you are sent.

After considering the representations made to it concerning the proposed Bylaws, Council may make such amendments or changes as it considers necessary to the proposed bylaws, if any, and proceed to pass or defeat the proposed bylaws.

For additional information, please contact: Roger Garnett, Director of Planning and Development

IN OUR BACKYARD

ADMINISTRATION:

The County Offices are open to the public during regular office hours which are 8:30AM 4:30PM, Monday through Friday.

PLANNING & COMMUNITY SERVICES:

Notice of Public Hearing will be held on March 14th, 2023 at 9:05 am in consideration of the adoption of Bylaw 23-05, being a bylaw for the purpose of adopting Robinwood Area Structure Plan. The deadline for written submissions is March 8, 2023 at 12:00 noon. For more information visit our Public Hearings webpage.

The current Municipal Development Plan & Land Use Bylaw is under review. The County would like resident’s input to help inform changes. Visit our website to learn about how you can provide your feedback.

Land for Sale: Vacant lot, located in a light industrial district at 5418-53rd Avenue in Blackfoot. Contact our office for more information or visit the Land Listings webpage

PROTECTIVE SERVICES:

Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment: If you are interested in volunteering with one of our stations (Blackfoot, Clandonald, Dewberry, Islay, Kitscoty, Marwayne or Paradise Valley), please contact the County at fire@county24.com.

AGRICULTURE & ENVIRONMENT:

Upcoming Workshops:

 The Original Grazing School for Women: March 17, 2023. This is a regional workshop being held at the Flat Lake Hall, near Bonnyville. This is an interactive, in-person workshop for women in Agriculture.

 ALUS Enhanced Grazing Workshop: March 15 & 19, 2023. This two day workshop will help you develop a grazing plan and design paddock fencing and water systems with access to funding support.

 Winter Grazing: How Can You Successfully Graze Cows Longer? March 21, 2023. 6:30 8:30 pm. Location TBD.

For more information or to register for the upcoming workshops please visit our Calendar webpage.

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.

ADMINISTRATION | 780-846-2244

For the most up-to-date information, check out our website or social media

www.vermilion-river.com

Students at VES wearing pink shirts. Photos submitted

Pink Shirt Day At VES School

Students

at VES wearing

The Bull’s Eye Book

By Allen Ronaghan

Vermilion & District Housing

Submitted

Foundations Long Service awards took place on February 23rd during our resident council meeting.

On behalf of Vermilion & District Housing Foundation we would like to congratulate our Long Service Awards Recipients on their achievements. Each of these individuals help us to serve our residents

with respect, sensitivity, caring and support.

Congratulations to all of you!

Korene McDonald – 10 year –Health Care Aide DSL3

Ofelyn Fajarito – 10 year – Health Care Aide DSL3

Tabitha Dykstra – 15 year – Resi dent Care Manager

Louise Voltner – 15 year – Food Services Group

A special honour was given to Shirley Nelson, Environmental Services Manager who received her 45 year award. Congratulations to Shirley on her lifetime commitment to the residents at Vermilion & District Housing Foundation. Amazing!

Thank you to the Board Members who were able to participate in the ceremony.

23031dg2

BACK Row – L- R Barb Sjoquist – Board Director, MD of Wainwright Rob Snow – Vice Chair, Town of Vermilion Councillor Carrie Kohlruss - Chief Administrative Officer, VDHF, Stacey Hryciuk – Board Chair, Reeve County of Vermilion River, Greg Throndson – Board Director, Mayor Town of Vermilion, Marty Baker – Board Director, County of Vermilion River.

Front row: L-R Korene McDonald-Health Care Aide DSL3, Ofelyn Fajarito-Health Care Aide DSL3, Louise Voltner-Food Services Group Shirley Nelson-Environmental Services Manager. Tabitha Dykstra-Resident Care Manager. Photo submitted