Vegreville News Advertiser - August 27, 2025

WHAT’S INSIDE

After 46 Years, The Bruce Stampede Racing Mules Will Race No More

Leslie Giebelhaus

Submitted

Back in the 1970’s you would see Ted Holden around the Bruce Rodeo grounds riding a mule and leading a couple more offering rides during the rodeo. In 1979 Ted supplied three mules that participated in the first race that started a tradition that lasted 45 years.

Ted Holden rode Judy, whiles his friend and fellow mule trainer, Les Giebelhaus, rode Blackie, with Ted’s hired hand Bod Sorgjen joining the fun riding Star around the track in a flat race after the rodeo events were finished for the day.

The next year they had 6 mules lined up to compete.

The following year they had mule skinners from Tofield, Roundhill, Elizabeth Settlement, Drayton Valley coming around to join the fun. That’s when the fun really started to happen! They were gaining attention and started getting invited to rodeos and other racing events across the western provinces and down into Montana and Oklahoma. At one point they had up to 22 mules racing in 2 heats per night.

Since they originated from the Bruce Stampede and the Bruce area, the announcers started to associate the group with Bruce and would introduce them as the “Bruce Stampede Racing Mules.” The Stampede Board at the time were asked and permission was given to use that name moving forward.

As the years went by, they decided that they wanted to showcase the mule’s endurance

ability, and the “Great Canadian Mule Race” was born. The first long race in 1993 was 20 miles long, with the mule running or jogging the entire way. To add to the entertainment and get the crowds involved they had a Calcutta to choose the winners. In 1998 the race was dropped down to 14 miles and then in 2003 when the final endurance race was ran it was 12 miles.

Their popularity gained attraction and a highlight of their racing history is running at the Ponoka Stampede as well as being invited to the Calgary Stampede. A couple of skinners and their mules attended Camp Wainwright to demonstrate packing and help with some training for the British army.

Due to some Mule skinners and Mules crossing the great divide, the Marathon race at Bruce and travelling to other venues was discontinued. However, the race around the track remained a part of the Saturday events until 2024. Some new faces from Viking, Vegreville and

Lamont brought out some mules to help keep the race going as long as it did!

In all the 46 years of racing, not one mule was injured. The same cannot be said for the riders…broken bones and broken hearts were sometime acquired after a weekend away.

Over the years they have had American Flag presented to them, carried our Canadian flag proudly. Had the 1996 Stampede Queen, Jackie Dickinson, do her entry on her mule. Jack Daines the rodeo announcer said, “I’ve introduced many Rodeo Queens, but never one riding on a mule.” Three generations have raced the Bruce Stampede track, but like most good things, it is time to come to an end.

The Bruce Stampede Racing Mules would like to thank the Bruce community, Stampede Association, sponsors and fans for their great support over the years.

As tradition with us we will leave you with an Irish Poem: May the road rise up to meet you; May the wind be always at your back; May the sun shine warm upon your face; The rains fall soft upon your fields; And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand. May the lord help you all through the journey of life

An old mule skinner once said that he learned how to train a mule from his wife. Be gentle, kind, patient and let them think that they’re boss!

Vipers, Kevin Henry

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Kevin Henry lives in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. He plans to move to Vegreville soon to coach Vegreville Vipers, who will be starting up again this hockey season, as an Alberta Elite Junior Hockey League with NCAA/ ACHA opportunities.

Henry has worked as the Health Care Coordinator for the British Columbia Metis Federation for five years now. Before, he worked as a registered nurse. He also ran politically for the Metis Nation of Saskatchewan as President. Henry shared that he played hockey when he was younger, and after he had kids who were into hockey, he decided to get involved again.

“For over 15 years, I have coached every minor hockey league that you could coach at, in Saskatchewan-based teams. I like that I am coming into an established program in Vegreville, and moving into a new league, which I think has a lot of upsides to it. I think it will be a fun time of growth in the hockey world, and we will see a lot of change with the NCA affiliations. I am looking forward to seeing what can happen in Vegreville because it could be a hockey hotbed like Brooks; there is good community support there, it is close to the big city of Edmonton. This is my first chance to go into junior hockey, and I feel that I am walking into the right place at the right time. It should be a great season!”

Henry went on to express that for him,

it is very special, because he will have his oldest son with him for the first month before he goes to Tulsa Oilers of the East Coach Hockey League. “He will be there helping me with things, and I will get to see my assistant coach, the trainer, owner, and office people. We can all put our heads together, and figure it out. I like the fact that people want to win there.”

Henry’s vision is to keep building what Vegreville Vipers have, and to keep that winning tradition alive, and give people a reason to want to come to the rink and be engaged and involved. “I am pretty easy to reach and to approach.”

FROM THE PAGES

OF THE VEGREVILLE OBSERVER COMPILED BY DAN BEAUDETTE

90 Years Ago – August 28, 1935

Nearly one hundred first flight letters, Goldfields, Fort Chipewyan were dispatched for the Ryley post office last week.

Harvest is in full swing in the Hairy Hill area. About 20% of the grain has been cut.

Last week’s frost at Shandro caused such heavy damage that all building, repairing and improvement projects in the district have been temporarily halted. Farmers are expecting a half yield of number six and feed wheat.

Active harvest operations commenced in earnest this week and binders are busy all over the district in the wheat fields. W. G. Scritsmier, for instance, has eight horse binders and two power fingers at work on his 1100-acre wheat crop. Some farmers report lots of frost damage, but Mr. Scritsmier says that there is little evidence of it in his fields.

Bad weather conditions have caused delays in the construction of the new large community hall at Shandro. Nevertheless, it will be completed shortly. Although the official opening has been postponed until the fall, regular dances, commencing with a huge one on August 28th, will be held during its completion.

75 Years Ago – August 30, 1950

Parliament which met on Tuesday afternoon, sat in almost continuous session until late Wednesday night to deal with the railway strike situation. The result was that the railway companies and employees were ordered back to work and, accordingly, all railway services will be resumed on Thursday morning.

Whether or not the black-surfacing of the Jasper Highway No. 16, from the Chipman corner to Vegreville will be accomplished this season is problematic. The Observer is informed that only a mile or so east of Chipman Corner has yet to receive the top finish and the construction season is nearing an end.

Latest additions to the expanding list of canned items range from live lobsters and whale steaks to frozen lemonade, according to the American Can Company. Another potential field may be indicated by the “canning” of such things as explosives, electrical instruments, and drills, the company says.

The U.S. Public Health Service says that of all the factors of man’s environment, none is more important than his welfare than food. Of all food, none is more important than milk.

Germs detest soap – which fact helps make cleanliness one of the best defenses against disease.

50 Years Ago – August 28, 1975

Three Hockey hopefuls were flown to Calgary on Saturday where they will take part in the Calgary Centennials hockey camp. Elmer Schultz piloted the boys down in his aircraft. Included in the group are David Schultz, Brent Kassian, and Tony Bodnar.

Swimmers from the Vegreville Swim Club sponsored the Regional Summer Swimming Association meet in Edmonton two weeks ago and several of the local swimmers made it to the Provincial Finals held again in Edmonton. Among those participating were Margaret Kawulych, Tammy Zaporozan, Margaret Horton, Hobe Horton, Bonnie Novakowski, Jamie Nawrot, Gwen Harsulla, and Lila Madill.

The Vegreville Summer Playground Program ended August 15th with an enjoyable trip to Fort Edmonton and Storyland Valley Zoo for 30 Children and five adults. The program, run under the excellent leadership of Beverly Moore, Cindy Madill, and Darlene Melenka, was felt to be a success with a total of 826 children participating.

Over the past twenty months, north-eastern Alberta has been plagued with grain elevator break, enter, and thefts. These thefts have amounted to close to $100,000.00 in merchandise and consist mainly of baler twine and spraying chemicals. To date there has been an extensive police investigation, however there have been no results.

25 Years Ago – August 29, 2000

Southward Energy is planning a third round of well drilling this year in their core focus area of Vegreville-Warwick. “This program will be one of the largest for the company to date and consists of drilling 13 net wells targeting various natural gas prospects,” said President Mark Janisch, in releasing the company’s first half of 2000 results. Vegreville’s RCMP detachment has a new Corporal as of August 25. J.R. (Jim) Gamlin is the new corporal. “ I was given a promotion from Constable to Corporal and had my choice of postings. I chose Vegreville because I wanted to work in a smaller, agricultural community,” explained Gamlin.

County of Minburn Councillor Orest Berezon reported to council about the hospital board meeting which included approval from Alberta Infrastructure for renovations to the dialysis area to add four more machine bringing the total to six and allowing 24 procedures a day at St. Joseph’s.

The County of Minburn meeting discussed a variety of topics for a joint meeting with Town of Vegreville Council including landfill costs and FCSS.

Letters Welcomed

One role of the Vegreville News Advertiser is to promote dialogue on various issues of concern to area residents. We accomplish this by welcoming Letters to the Editor and allowing various issues to be debated through our pages. All letters must contain the writer’s name, address and phone number. Anonymous letters will not be printed, however the writer’s name may be withheld from publication in special circumstances deemed appropriate by the Publisher. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to edit letters for length, clarity, spelling and grammar, taste or for reasons of potential libel. A maximum of 150 words is preferred. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to withhold letters from publication.

Canola or Cars?

Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser – Opinion

The title for this week could also have been “Biting the Hand That Feeds,” but I think I’ve used something similar before. If you are at all interested in national news topics, there is no doubt you have heard of news on two fronts. First is the ongoing drama over tariffs that are on then off then being raised then lowered. It’s a moving target that makes it impossible to plan for anything but that seems to be the way that U.S. President Trump likes it. Unfortunately it seems tariffs are like the flu and everyone is getting infected. Second is the August 14 news about new tariffs, this time from China on Canadian canola. Not a stranger to tariffs, it seems as though China has taken a page out of Trumps playbook. The 75.8% tariff on Canadian canola is a retaliation in response to Canadian tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs.) On October 1, 2024, Canada implemented a 100% tariff on Chinese-made EVs in an attempt to protect the Canadian auto sector stating Chinese EV makers benefited from unfair subsidies. There was also an alignment with the U.S. which also implemented similar tariffs.

The current state we see ourselves in is a bit of a picture of Canada as a whole. Ottawa wants to protect auto manufacturers in the east, and the west suffers in agriculture. Similar to when they wanted to leverage oil in the tariff fight with the U.S. or when they implement carbon taxes. I would guess if you pulled 100 people off the street in random prairie towns, they would not care much about EVs. Being the truck capital of Canada, Alberta shows that we support our domestic auto market, just make sure it’s gasoline or diesel. Yet at times, it feels as though we are pawns being used for trade fodder.

This could be an issue that drives a bigger wedge in the east-west Canadian riff. If you take a summer drive through the prairies, it’s not hard to notice the endless fields of yellow blooms. The bulk of canola in Canada is grown in the prairies; 99% if you want to put a number on it. This contributes $14.5 billion to the economy by way of exports alone. Factor in other aspects including the value of production, processing, and exports, as well as the economic activity generated throughout the supply chain and that number climbs to $43.7 billion annually. The industry directly supports over 206,000 jobs in Canada.

The Canadian auto industry is no slouch either contributing over $18 billion to our GDP and when factoring other aspects reaches $64 billion annually and 600,000 jobs. It’s no wonder why the government wants to protect it.

However, that number for canola is not fair since canola is only one part of Canadian agriculture. If you take the ENTIRE ag industry, the number is more than double the auto sector at $149 billion and 2.3 million jobs.

Unfortunately, when you pick a fight with someone who is bigger, you need to take a few hits. China is Canada’s largest canola customer and the U.S. is our largest automotive trading partner. Canada may soon have to choose which industry they want to protect more. Will it be canola or cars?

Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com

Helping to Preserve Traditional Hall

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

People seemed happy to purchase a lunch to go at the Hot Dog Fundraising Sale for Zhoda Hall at Vegreville and District Co-op on August 22.

Treasurer for Zhoda Community Centre, Jeannette Homeniuk explained that they still have renovations to do; they have the new ceiling done, but want a drop ceiling for it. “We also want to redo the floors in the hall. Any money we raise will go back into renovations.

The hall has not been used much lately except for the bingo. We are hoping that with all these renovations, it will attract more people, and they will have their wedding receptions and reunions at the hall. We also want to encourage neighbourhood people to join the community centre because we have a very small group of volunteers right now, and we would really like for people to help out. We especially want to see young people join.”

Update From the MLA’s Office

MLA Armstrong-Homeniuk

Submitted

We are only a few days away from Alberta Day!

On September 1, 1905, the province of Alberta was established through the Alberta Act. This was also the same day

Looking g For r A New w Activity?

attendees,

we joined Confederation. The inauguration was hosted in Edmonton, with a record 20,000 attendees, which is interesting because the census had counted the city’s population at under 5,000 people!

Alberta Day is a great opportunity to celebrate our province and everyone who calls it home. It’s also a chance to reflect on where we came from, those who cared for the land before us, and to take pride in all our accomplishments. There will be celebrations around the province to commemorate Alberta Day including Saturday Aug. 30 as the City of Fort Saskatchewan will be celebrating Alberta Day at the Fort Saskatchewan Heritage Precinct and on Sunday, August 31 the Town of Bruderheim will also be celebrating. Bring the whole family out for a fun-filled day of community spirit! There’s something for everyone, including games, music, and other activities. You won’t want to miss it. Happy 120 birthday, Alberta!

In Alberta, we take care of one another. That’s why no one should have to choose between putting food on the table and

please

paying the bills. On Tuesday, September 9, please join us at the KIN Community Park (Fish Park) in Vegreville as we come together for a community barbeque in support of the Vegreville Food Bank. There will be lots of games and great food, and even better company. Every donation helps provide food to help neighbours in need. I am so grateful to be part of a such a caring and generous community that’s always willing to lend a hand. Together, we can make sure that no plate is left empty. Finally, I want to offer my sincere congratulations to Luzan Community Club Centre in Vegreville, who recently received a grant through the Alberta Government’s Community Facility Enhancement Program. This centre serves as a hub for the community, hosting perogy suppers, dances, and events that bring people together to celebrate the heart of rural Alberta. A big thank you to all the volunteers and organizers whose dedication makes our communities a great place to be! From local to provincial initiatives, the Alberta Government is proud to support organizations that enrich our rural communities and ensure Alberta is the best place to live, work, and raise a family.

RAVE - Curbing Mail Theft

Chad Cronk Acting Crime Prevention Liaison Supervisor - Alberta RCMP

Your Alberta RCMP is giving tips to help prevent mail theft and is encouraging Albertans to subscribe to RAVE.

In order to curb mail theft, consider the following tips:

• Install a locking mailbox. A locked mailbox can help perturb thieves from taking your mail.

• Collect mail promptly. Don’t let mail accumulate in your mailbox. Pick it up as soon as possible after delivery.

• Consider a package delivery box. These boxes provide a secure place for packages, reducing the risk of theft from your doorstep.

• Or sign for deliveries. If expecting a package, choose a shipping option that requires a signature.

• Secure your mailbox. Ensure your mailbox is securely attached to your property and not easily accessible to thieves.

• Advise neighbours. Let your neighbours know when you’re going away. Have a trusted neighbour collect your mail or have your mail delivery suspended for that period.

• Shred mail. Shred any mail that contains personal or financial details.

Along with giving tips to help prevent mail theft, this August your Alberta RCMP is reminding community members of the benefits of RAVE Mobile Safety, the mass notification system that allows the Alberta RCMP to fanout real-time information.

Information given from RAVE includes ongoing crimes, traffic advisories, and missing people, as well as information on current crime trends and preventative measures community members can take to protect themselves and their property. Invitations to community presentations are also provided through the platform. You can sign up for RAVE notifications for any RCMP jurisdiction here: https://www.getrave.ca/smart911/ref/login.

action?pa=CrimeWatchAdvisoryAB

If you see something suspicious, report it to your local police service. If you see a crime in progress, call 911. 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.

For more information on RAVE and preventing mail theft, please follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta, X @ RCMPAlberta, and on YouTube @RCMPGRC Alberta.

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Harvest Safety Tips Harvest Safety for the Public

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Local residents discussed what they believed was essential for a safe farming season.

Shaun Senechal shared that the hectic pace of harvest can tempt people to skip safety steps. Therefore, taking time for proper precautions to prevent accidents that could sideline you for the entire season is imperative.

Trish Proznick answered, “Watch for overhead power lines when moving equipment such as grain augers.

Stopping the PTO before putting your hands anywhere near it if you need to fix something.”

Brent Christensen advised taking a break and getting out of your cab to have a meal at suppertime.

Michelle Engelman gave a list of these safety protocols.

Wear proper clothing because this shields eyes, lungs, and ears from dust, chemicals, and loud noise.

Keep first aid kits accessible.

Maintain clear communication with

workers and family members because this prevents confusion and accidents during tasks.

Avoid working alone when handling heavy equipment as this is wise to do so because someone can assist in emergencies.

Learn basic CPR and first aid as this can save lives in case of severe injuries before help arrives.

Have an emergency plan and contact numbers visible because quick action during accidents can prevent fatalities.

Ensure good lighting in work areas as poor visibility leads to accidents and missteps.

Avoid alcohol or drugs while working because these substances can impair coordination and decision-making.

For machinery safety, make sure to read and follow equipment manuals because this prevents misuse and mechanical failure.

Turn off engines before maintenance as doing this prevents accidental start-up injuries.

Keep guards and shields in place on equipment because it protects from moving parts that can cause severe injuries.

Check brakes, steering, and tires regularly as it reduces the risk of rollovers or crashes.

For general public safety during harvest, maintain a safe distance from all farm machinery, especially slow-moving equipment on roads, and be prepared for sudden stops. Be aware of large machinery, debris, sinkholes, and mud on roads. If you are a farm visitor, wear bright clothing or a high-visibility vest, follow a buddy system, and stay away from hazardous areas like grain bins.

For Drivers and Pedestrians

Slow Down:

Harvest season brings large, slow-moving equipment to public roads, so drive slowly and be patient when you see them.

Be Visible:

Keep your car lights on, especially in dusty conditions, and be aware of machinery operators’ visibility limitations.

Watch for Hazards:

Be vigilant for mud, rocks, and other debris on roads that could be kicked up or spread by farm equipment.

Give Space:

Farmers may need to use shoulders or pull over to allow traffic to pass. Be understanding and give them the space they need.

Be Aware of Overheads:

Watch out for the height of farm equipment, as it could get caught on power lines or under low bridges.

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

For Farm Visitors and General Public

Stay Away from Machinery:

Keep a safe distance from operating farm equipment, as they have many moving parts and blind spots.

Don’t Enter Grain Bins:

Never enter a grain bin while grain is being loaded or unloaded, as you can be quickly suffocated by moving grain.

Keep Children and Pets Safe:

Designate a safe play area for children away from busy areas and machinery.

Improve Visibility:

Wear bright clothing or high-visibility vests, especially in areas with heavy vehicle traffic.

Use a Buddy System:

If you need to enter a potentially hazardous area, such as a grain bin, always use a buddy system.

Inspect the Terrain:

Be cautious of sinkholes, drop-offs, or areas that may be flooded, which can be hidden by crops or dust.

At the Farm

Follow Instructions: Adhere to all safety instructions given by the farmer or the farm’s safety plan.

Be Mindful of Dust: If you’re exposed to a lot of dust, consider wearing an N-95 respirator.

makes an excellent sandwich.

There

when protein or energy bars might come in handy. If people do not have a peanut or nut allergy, trail mix is also convenient and quite healthy. Traditional sandwiches work well but for something different and appetizing, taco or pita bread

Put salads in containers. Food to add include fresh chopped tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, salad dressings, shredded or feta cheese, cut up cucumbers, chopped radishes, peppers, shredded carrots, or other vegetables.

Fruit salads are good too. These can be created with chopped fresh fruit, yogurt, a bit of honey, and nuts. Fruit leather or snacks work well too.

Make sure to bring plenty of bottled water and juice boxes.

Message from Carl Ogrodnick on Farm Safety

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent County of Minburn Councillor Carl Ogrodnick owns and operates a farm about 12 miles southwest of Vegreville in the County of Minburn with 500 acres of grain land and pasture. “I also have 35 head of cattle. I just want everyone to be safe at harvest time. It’s a very stressful time, with weather concerns, break-

downs, and having people to help. Try not to stress too much, don’t forget about working safe and keeping everyone around you safe. I try to remember that one moment of thoughtlessness could cause a lifetime of suffering.”

Vegreville Elks Submitted

Elks Raffle Winners

Despite the weather at the fair, the community support for the annual Elk’s Raffle was brisk and as always, very valuable for the work we do in the community. Following are the winners from the 2025 Elks’ Raffle Friday, August 8: Bill Smolek $500; Jeff and Janelle Durda $100. Saturday, August 9: Brandy Stefan $500; Claude Robert $100. Sunday, August 10: Terry Gizowski $1000; Rose Woycheshyn $100. Winners are pictured with Brother Elk Bernie Florkow making cheque presentations.

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Vegreville Vipers Return

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

After a hiatus for a year, Vegreville Vipers Jr. Hockey team will restart for the 2025/26 season. This brings a new owner, general manager, and coaches. Hence, on August 23, a barbecue and Meet-and-Greet were held at the Wally Fedun Arena parking lot.

At this time, Owner Dan Tabak and his wife, MJ, Head Coach and General Manager, Kevin Henry, Assistant General Manager, Brian Woroniuk, Executive member of the League, Gatlin Church, and Past General Manager Bryan Brown had friendly conversations with attendees.

Attendees were signing up to volunteer. Chris and Ashten Bryson, said Ashten was Venom for this one-time event, and they want to help out. They were there to watch the Vipers at every home game when they played before.

Pat Feser shared that he wanted to volunteer because they were a Billet family before for a player from Argentina. “I just

really enjoy watching and helping with the hockey team.”

Tabak said they are hoping to gain exposure by hosting this, and for the community to know they are back. “It is an exciting time to bring hockey to Vegreville in a different league, as an Alberta Elite Junior Hockey League.

With our Head Coach and General Manager, I think he will definitely be able to bring in a champion team again!”

In closing, Tabak expressed that they were grateful to Adam’s No Frills for donating to the barbecue.

be made part of the public record.

Should you wish to make a verbal presentation to County Council or present electronically at the public hearing, you must register in advance by emailing info@minburncounty.ab.caor calling 780-632-2082 by 4:00 pm on September 9, 2025. Visit the County’s website for details - https://minburncounty.ab.ca/public-hearings A copy of the bylaw is available for public inspection during regular office hours at the County of Minburn office located in the

or

have any

Tributes

IN HONOR & MEMORY OF

10 YEARS HAVE PASSED SINCE I SAW YOU LAST

AUGUST 1, 1940 – AUGUST 31, 2015

MY MOTHER & FRIEND

It has been 10 years since you went to Heaven My Mother

It has been 10 years since I looked into your beautiful loving eyes

It has been 10 years since I touched your kind and gentle face

And heard your comforting & always forgiving voice

You have always been my Guardian Angel protecting me from harm

There is a deafening silence when I search for you now

My mind talks to you all the time My Mother

My heart searches for you & aches My Mother

You are my first thought when I wake My Mother

And my last thought when I close my eyes at night.

You are always in my heart; I carry you close to me always

You are always in my mind; you never leave me My Mother

I know you are now at PEACE with Jesus, your Mom, Baba & Gido & Michelle

And all the ones who went before you and loved you dearly

But I miss you so much here on this earth My Mother & Friend

I look forward to seeing you one day soon in Heaven

Where you are dancing & singing with your Angels now

In your Beautiful, Colorful Fields of Flowers & Crossing that Beautiful Wooden Bridge you had dreams of & joyfully told me about so often.

You now have that incredible PEACE you dreamt of & desired so desperately here on this earth.

You will be with me Forever & Always, My Loving Mother & Friend

Your Loving Daughter Arlene, Kurt, Joshua, Kash & Stein Jared, Rachel & Ezekiel Carol, Rory & Family

KOTOWICH, Pete

August 12, 1925 - August 25, 2024

In loving memory of my dear husband.

Pete’s Smile

Though your smile is gone forever and your hand I cannot touch and kiss you like I did before.

I still have so many happy memories of the one I loved so much and he loved me in return. Your memories are my keepsake with which I’ll never part.

God has you in his keeping, I have you in my heart.

It’s one year has passed; it seems like ten.

I hide my heartache. I hide my pain.

Living without you is the hardest part of all.

My happiest days will never return. Rest in peace.

Loving wife, Nelsie

In Memory of

IRIS PALICHUK

Dear Mom

It’s been too long since we made perogies side by side.

Flour on our hands, laughter we couldn’t hide

Its been so long sitting across your empty chair.

Now Dad’s is empty too, and it’s just not fair.

I still see you bent over pulling weeds in the sun.

Back when the garden chores somehow felt fun.

And the VLT’s - we’d sneak away for a spin after a day of hard work

Cheering like kids when We’d somehow win.

The holidays now are quiet and bare

No loud voices, no smells filling the air.

The noise is gone, the warmth feels thin.

Ten years have passed

I don’t know where they’re gone.

I still feel feel you near

In the stillness, in stories in every tear.

You were my Mother Strong, fierce and True

And I’m Counting the days Til we’re back with you.

Your smile, your laugh, the way you’d call my name (Joycie)

Everything about you still feels the same.

You’re not just a memory

You’re part of my days, every where I look and walk.

Always loved & remembered your daughter Joyce (Tony)

In Memory of Aggie Haubrick

April 10, 1941- September 1, 2010

You can shed tears that she is gone

Or you can smile because she has lived

You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back

Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left

Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her

Or you can be full of the love you shared

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday

Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday

You can remember her and only that she is gone

Or you can cherish her memory and let it live on

You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back

Or you can do what she would want; smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

We miss you so much Mom

Love Michelle, Shannon, Shaun and families

In Memory of Iris Palichuk

Our Baba 1940 - 2015 Baba

It’s been to long since we tested your tomato soup.

Too long since I helped you clean the chicken coop

Too long since we saw that silly, sweet smile

Feels like I’ve been chasing you mile by mile.

Though we know you’re no longer here

We still can’t help but shed a tear

You were are BABA Strong and true

And nothing will ever take that from you.

We’re counting the days til we meet once more

Your laugh, your hugs, Your caring touch

We miss you deeply, that will never change

In every memory, your warmth remains

You were our BABA - our heart, our guide

And we carry you always deep inside.

Always loved & remembered by Nicole, Cory, Cameron, Peyton Dominic, Logan & Brooklyn, Tiffany -Dwayne, Chris -Ashly, Elizabeth & Rebecca

UNIAT, John

April 1, 1910 – August 24, 1970

In memory of our dad who passed away 55 years ago. You were an early riser and hard-working farmer who loved playing cards. Little did we know that afternoon God was going to call your name. What we’d give if we could say, Hello Dad in the same old way.

To hear your voice and see your smile,

To sit and chat a little while.

You will always remain in our hearts.

Victor, Anne, Janet and families

Ernie

It is with immense sorrow that we announce the passing of Ernie Mazepa on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at the age of 80 years.

Left to cherish Ernie’s memory is his loving wife of 55 years, Elaine; son, Jason Mazepa; daughter, Lisa (Kevin) Abrams; sister-in-law, Rita Kit; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Tillie; and sister, Irene.

A special thank-you to Dr. Choo and the staff at the Fort Saskatchewan Community hospital for their care and compassion. Cremation has been entrusted to Park Memorial. A private family service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in Ernie’s honour may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, https:// www.heartandstroke.ca

DOWHANIUK, Joyce Esther January 30, 1934 – August 22, 2025

On Friday, August 22, 2025, Joyce Dowhaniuk of Vegreville, Alberta passed away at the age of 91 years. Joyce is survived by her loving children: Yolanda Dowhaniuk (Biermann) along with her daughters Justine (Devon) and Kyndra; Brad (Renee) Dowhaniuk and their sons Andrew (Jessica) and Nicholas (Katie); and Jolene (Eugene) Toth and their children Jori and Megan (Jonathan); great-grandchildren Madden, Silas, Jude and Benji; siblings Ernie Sorochan, Sophie (Tom) Wowdzia, Sonia Ketsa, Ruth Boosenkool and Lillian Fodchuk. She was predeceased by her husband Nestor; parents Nick and Mary Sorochan; brother Nester Sorochan; sister Alyce (Mike) Paranich; two brothers-in-law John Boosenkool and Harry Ketsa.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Autumn Rose Funeral Home in Vegreville, Alberta with Rev. Laureta Blondin officiating. Private Inurnment to follow in the Riverside Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the “Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta” or the “Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta.” To send condolences please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, Alberta 780-603-5800

Vegreville RCMP Remind Public About Vehicle Safety for Anticipated Week-Long Heatwave

Vegreville RCMP Submitted

With extreme heat expected over the next few days, Vegreville RCMP is reminding the public to never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly, putting lives at serious risk.

Key Safety Reminders:

• Seconds count. A parked car can reach dangerous temperatures in minutes.

• There is no safe “short stop.” Take them with you whenever you exit the vehicle.

• Keeping windows even slightly open is not enough. Even cracked windows do not prevent the inside of a car from overheating.

• Know the signs of heat stroke: dizziness, rapid heartbeat, nausea, confusion, or heavy sweating.

• Remind friends and family about the dangers of leaving anyone in a hot car.

• Follow weather warnings and heat alerts to plan safe travel and outings.

• If you see a child or animal left in a hot vehicle, call 911 immediately. Police and emergency responders will act quickly to ensure their safety.

“Every year the RCMP across Alberta respond to emergency reports of children and animals left unattended inside motor vehicles during extreme weather conditions. With temperatures in Vegreville expected to soar this week, we would like to remind people that leaving kids or pets in an unoccupied motor vehicle pose significant health risks and could result in Criminal Code charges.” - S/Sgt. Colin Folk

Cool Scoops of Fun

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Children exclaimed that the treat was better than a blizzard at the Ice Cream Party at Kalyna Family Resource Network-Vegreville and Area on August 21.

Ninety attendees were at this event; 40 were caregivers, and 50 children.

Parents and children received a couple of scoops of ice cream in a cup at the build-your-own ice cream sundae area, with candies, mini-cookies, sauce, and sprinkles.

The sensory bin contained plastic cones and materials to create pretend ice-cream cones.

There was also an ice-cream stand and decorations.

Spoke Cheryl Sorensen said this event was meant to celebrate the end of summer. They use this time to get children to play with the toys here, and to have fami-

Crazy Laws Colorado

Gearing Up for Christmas - In August

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

The sun shone down on the participants of the Sixth Annual Toy Run on August 17. This event started at the Galleria Shops parking lot, and the riders drove in a parade through the highways in Vegreville.

There were 25 motorcycle riders, a few members of Vegreville Irons Runners Auto Club, and other community members who came out to support

this great cause.

All proceeds will be forwarded to the Vegreville Christmas Bureau.

Coordinator Patti Gallien said they received $695 and a trailer full of toys.

Reuben Kane, a motorcycle rider from Fort Saskatchewan, said he liked to take part because it is local. “It is a fun thing to do, and it supports kids in the community. I like Christmas too.”

Riding Towards New Skills

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

The weather was picture-perfect when Vegreville Agricultural Society hosted the Ladies Horse Clinic on August 16 and 17. Clinician Rhondalyn Twitchell said they welcomed 11 enthu-

LOST YEARLING HEIFER

Missing yearling Heifer from the Soroka pasture North East of Ranfurly NW-5-52-11 W4. Heifer is tan colour with a white patch on her back by the tail and she has a green ear tag in her right ear with the number 196.

If Anyone Sees Her, Please Phone Mark at 780-208-9363 or 780-592-2251

siastic participants from Alberta and Saskatchewan for a unique experience combining horsemanship and obstacle training for riders and their horses. “With 30 years of experience instructing clinics and lessons, I take pride in helping people achieve their equestrian goals. We are grateful to everyone who helped.

Now in its fourth year, this clinic continues to provide a unique opportunity for horses and riders.”

Hwy #16 East Sales Yard

Starts October 10th to

Closes October 13th/14th/15th, 2025

Location: Hwy #16 & Rge Rd 185 (1 Mile East of Hwy 834) South Side of the Road Phone: (780) 208-2508 Office Aaron Olson -(403) 913-9644 -Allen Olson -(403) 783-0556

We are now accepting Listings for this Sale. Any items prelisted by September 10th will be included in our Sales Posters, Newspaper & Radio Advertising, Web Page & Social Media.

Selling equipment to all four Western provinces and the Northern USA.