Vegreville News Advertiser - November 5, 2025

County of Two Hills Holds Organizational Meeting

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

The County of Two Hills held its annual organizational meeting on Oct. 29. It was also the first meeting since the municipal election which included a swearing in ceremony for all members of council.

Murray Phillips was nominated as Reeve by Div. 1 Councillor Don Gulayec. There were no other nominations, so Phillips was declared Reeve and was the first to take the oath of office. Div. 5 Councillor Elroy Yakemchuk nominated Neal Lapaschuk as Deputy Reeve and Div. 2 Councillor Murray Phillips nomi-

nated Don Gulayec as Deputy Reeve.

Following the results of a secret ballot, Don Gulayec was declared Deputy Reeve and sworn into office.

Council members were appointed to several committees, some of which include: Agricultural Services Board, Eagle Hill Foundation, ACE Water, Regional Waste Management Committee, etc. A new committee, the Regional Fire Services Committee was also formed.

The Regional Fire Services Committee includes all members of council as well as fire services coordinator, who will meet with the fire chiefs every three months. Reeve Phillips said they will also invite a council representative from the

Village of Myrnam and the Town of Two Hills to be a part of the committee.

Deputy Reeve first suggested the idea of having something “more structured” and to be a “sounding board” as well provide information to individuals with the fire departments. Phillips suggested the formation of the Regional Fire Services Committee and quarterly meetings with all members of council the fire chiefs. Gulayec said he could live with that.

Div. 5 Councillor Elroy Yakemchuk said the biggest thing is communication, and felt this committee would be the best way to improve communication.

Innisfree-Mannville Communities Band Together to Support Rural Education

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Concerned parents of students of Delnorte School in Innisfree and Mannville School are asking Alberta’s Education Minister to address the growing challenges in those rural classrooms. In a joint letter signed by Julie Warrilow, Innisfree Delnorte School parent, and Dawn Kane, Mannville School parent, they outline the urgent needs for those two schools and challenge Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides to fulfill the requirements in Premier Smith’s mandate letter to improve education throughout the province.

Accompanying the joint letter, is a petition that is currently being circulated

for other parents and community members to sign. The joint letter reads in part, “As committed volunteers we spend many hours inside amongst the students and staff within their learning environments. We can see, feel, and hear firsthand the frustrations and growing list of challenges our kids, teachers, support staff and principal face on a daily basis. We can tell you with certainty that is affecting their health and well-being; physically and mentally, and that is taking a toll on our kids’ ability to learn and engage effectively. We can also attest and assure you that our educators care for our kids (their students) and are working Rural Education - CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

This is Keith and Karen, owners of Pro-trade Plumbing, a Wainwright fixture for 20+ years. Keith says he spent part of his profit shares taking Karen for dinner. They appreciated the cash, but what Keith really values about Vision is the friendly branch atmosphere. Karen says he goes there daily, banking or not. You could say he’s become a fixture at the branch. Keep it up, Keith, and we’ll get you a name tag and wicket.

The Climate Catastrophe Has Been Cancelled

Arthur Beaudette

News Advertiser – Opinion

Someone call Greta Thunberg. Or maybe don’t; she won’t approve. You see, one of her allies in the headline grabbing fight against climate change has done what some are calling a backflip.

Bill Gates is likely a household name. For those who may not know, he co-founded Microsoft, is one of the wealthiest humans on the planet and has been a vocal “Climate Doomer” along with the likes of Greta Thunberg, Al Gore and Canada’s own David Suzuki. He has been a vocal proponent of solutions to avoid a “climate disaster,” even publishing a book in 2021 titled “How to Avoid a Climate Disaster.”

In an approximately 5,500 word essay last week, entitled “Three tough truths about climate”, Gates ultimately states that climate change will not lead to humanity’s demise. With precision timing, the essay published on gatesnotes.com, comes before next week’s COP30 event in Brazil where the world’s elite fly fleets of private jets filled with their entourages to Brazil to decide how they will spend our tax dollars to slay the mighty climate change dragon.

While characterizing Gates’ essay as a “backflip” is more

than a little hyperbole, it is coming from a man who actually wrote the book. I would describe it as more of a sober second look where he does indicate our efforts to this point have made a huge impact and he has the graphs to prove it.

Gates started his piece with a subtitle of “What I want everyone at COP30 to know.“ What should they know? Well, here before painstakingly detailing his three tough truths, Gates provided three points in short.

• Climate change is serious, but we’ve made great progress. We need to keep backing the breakthroughs that will help the world reach zero emissions.

• But we can’t cut funding for health and development— programs that help people stay resilient in the face of climate change—to do it.

• It’s time to put human welfare at the center of our climate strategies, which includes reducing the Green Premium to zero and improving agriculture and health in poor countries.

Truth #1: Climate change is a serious problem, but it will not be the end of civilization. Even if the world takes only moderate action to curb climate change, the current consensus is that by 2100 the Earth’s average temperature will probably be between 2°C and 3°C higher than it was in 1850.

Truth #2: Temperature is not the best way to measure our progress on climate. The global temperature doesn’t tell us anything about the quality of people’s lives. If droughts kill your crops, can you still afford food? When there’s an extreme heat wave, can you go somewhere with air conditioning? When a flood causes a disease outbreak, can the local health clinic treat everyone who’s sick?

Truth #3: Health and prosperity are the best defense against climate change. A few years ago, researchers at the University of Chicago’s Climate Impact Lab ran a thought experiment: What happens to the number of projected deaths from climate change when you account for the expected economic growth of low-income countries over the rest of this century? The answer: It falls by more than 50 percent.

We should also keep in mind that Microsoft’s and Mr. Gate’s current ambitions include AI which is driving huge demands for electricity and nuclear power which he proposes to fill that demand. He is still a capitalist after all.

Mr. Gates’ message to the COP30 crowd came at the perfect time. Perhaps it also came early enough for the Canadian government to scratch a few green line items out of their soon to be released budget. The last 10 years of spending have been an eye opener which I will touch on next week.

For now I, along with many others, will sleep a little more soundly knowing that if I drive my petrol burning vehicle or mow my lawn, it doesn’t mean the end of civilization as we know it.

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

INSURANCE

Thrill of Collecting Treasures

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

People were able to have their gold, silver, coins, and paper money assessed or sold when Precious Metals Buyer and President of TC Precious Metals, Terry Burrill, hosted the Recycling Roadshow at Vegreville Legion Hall on October 28 and 29.

Burrill started collecting pennies in 1965 at six, when his grandfather handed him a handful of pennies and a blue book, and said to start collecting coins for

Burrill’s collector badge because he was in Cub Scouts. “I have always been into collecting coins, but probably about 15 years ago, was when I saw some ads where they said to send us your gold, and we will send you a cheque. We thought, ‘Who would do that?’ So we didn’t go for it. We started up in the farmers’ market. The problem was that people don’t bring goods to this market; they go there to buy stuff. So, I started to do events that I hold all over.”

Burrill loves his job, as he enjoys

interacting and visiting with the people in the communities. His advice to people who want to get into collecting, buying, and selling treasures is to take some seminars and know how to spot fakes and forgeries. You have to be a people person and love what you do.

90 Years Ago – November 6, 1935

Several livestock breeders of the district had exhibits at the Edmonton Fall Show held last week. They took their fair share of prizes. John Gordon of Innisfree taking a champion and reserve champion in the Yorkshire Boar class. Other winners were L.A. Hulett of Vegreville and J. Thompson of Lavoy.

The Vegreville General Hospital name again appears on the list of hospitals that bear the stamp of approval of the American College of Physicians and Surgeons, a distinction borne by only a little over 2500 hospitals in all the United States and Canada. 22 hospitals in Alberta live up to the requirements.

The projection room at the Mundare Theatre has undergone a complete change and is now in accordance with the Provincial Theatre Act.

Threshing has been going on, on a large scale in the district regardless of the steady snowfall.

The cold snap made a rapid and smooth job of freezing the river at Shandro Ferry. Within twenty-four hours crossing by boat was changed to crossing over the surface on foot. On November 3rd, two cars crossed over safely.

75 Years Ago – November 8, 1950

After fourteen years of service with St. Martin’s Parish, Vegreville, Rev. Father Burke left on Wednesday morning for Edmonton to take charge of a new parish, Ste. Margaret’s, on the South Side. The annual meeting of the Heather Curling Club was held in the Civic Building, where officers were elected. Chosen to lead the club was J. C. Cam Campbell. Others accepting offices in the club were Al Locke, 1st Vice President, and Joe Runge, 2nd Vice President. Steve Zaozirny accepted the secretary-treasurer job.

George Dowhaniuk, enthusiastic hockey promoter and player was elected to head the Ranger Hockey Club and Bill Flechuk will take on the secretary job. Among others elected to the executive were Dr. J. F. Reid, Cliff King, Carroll McClure, Al Scholton, Gordon Strong, Harry Krewusik, Terry Soldan, and John Finlay.

S. Sysak has set up his barber chair in the Arcade Billiard Parlor, thus getting back to a single-handed business. Since he left his first shop, he has been associated with Emil Olsen.

A rare white muskrat skin in the prized possession of Walter Figgures, fur buyer for the Hudson’s Bay Company here in Grande Prairie. Gene Gerwatorski caught the albino muskrat on his registered trap line.

50 Years Ago – November 6, 1975

This notice is of prime importance to farmers using Warwick as a primary delivery point. In spite of improvements made to the Willingdon-Vegreville rail line, it is still scheduled for abandonment after 1976. We need to inform the federal commissions who are now holding inquiries into line abandonment, that this rail line and the Warwick elevators on such line, are extremely important to the farmers in this area.

Except for some minor calls, Halloween in Vegreville was relatively quiet this year, according to RCMP. A total of 11 men were on patrol Friday with five cars mobile.

Last Wednesday, a group of local workers and probation officers formed a picket line in front of the Provincial Building on Main Street. This group joined their fellow workers from across Alberta in a strike move. A court injunction forced the strikers back to work. Sunshine Club members voted in favor of a joint executive for the club. Preventative Social Services Director, Lillian Whittier, was on hand to outline the role of a joint executive and to explain the voting procedure.

A new well is being dug in Ranfurly by Austin Construction to supply water for the skating rink, curling rink, and Fire Department.

25 Years Ago – November 7, 2000

Vegreville Army Cadets and Mundare Air Cadets were busy Saturday assisting the Legion with poppy sales on the streets of Vegreville. Participating were Civilian Instructor Paul Dollard, Sgt. Doug Topolnitsky, Cpl. Jordan Serediuk, LAC Ashley Serediuk, AC Barbara Charette, Cpl. Chandel Topolnitsky, and LAV Crystal Lozo. Britney Powley, daughter of Jenny and Rick Powley of Vegreville, was the proud winner and new owner of a 160-pound pumpkin from Vegreville & District Coop. Britney’s correct guess of the pumpkin’s weight was part of the Co-op’s Kids Club promotion.

The Wing Knights team of Dave Robinson, Ernie Ludwig, Ken Gulevich (King of the Wing Ding), and Gary Bannick raised $4,024.25 of a grand total of $6,592 for this year’s Children’s Ability Fund.

The Cole family of Molly and Dale, Grant and Donna, and Pam and Daryl, and their ancestors, were presented with a Heritage Plaque by County of Minburn Deputy Reeve Orest Berezan in recognition of 100 Years of family Farm steading in the Vegreville area. Grade 11 student Clayton Baranec won first place with the poster he submitted to the Birch Lake (Innisfree) Legion’s annual Remembrance Day Poems, Essays, and Poster Contest.

Franco Terrazzano

Federal Director - The Canadian Taxpayers Federation

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation demands immediate action to simplify the tax code after the Auditor General reported the Canada Revenue Agency only gets individual income tax questions right 17 per cent of the time.

“When individual Canadians are asking questions about their taxes, they’re only getting the right answer from the CRA 17 per cent of the time,” said Franco Terrazzano, CTF Federal Director.

“Even when people are asking the CRA about business taxes, it’s a coin flip on whether they will get the right answer, and even then, Canadians aren’t getting a full response.

response” was 31 per cent.

The Income Tax Act is about 3,600 pages. For context, that’s about the same length as the entire seven-book Harry Potter series.

“The fact that the CRA is providing the wrong information so often is proof that nobody understands the impossibly complicated rules and the government needs to simplify the tax code.”

October 21st’s Auditor General report found that “responses to general individual-tax questions were accurate only 17 per cent of the time.”

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.

The report also found that the CRA’s responses on business taxes were accurate just 54 per cent of the time. And even then, the Auditor General said the “completeness of

“The Income Tax Act has become so long and complex that virtually no one can understand it,” Terrazzano said. “Hiring more bureaucrats to give even more wrong answers won’t actually fix the problem. “The real solution is to simplify the tax code.”

The Auditor General found that Canadians were only able to get a CRA agent on the phone 32 per cent of the time in 2024-25. The report also found that just 18 per cent of callers reached an agent within 15 minutes or less.

There were 4,547 contact centre agents in 2024-25 – an increase of 1,030 employees since 2019-20.

“When the pitcher, batter, catcher, umpires and video replay officials all have no idea what the call should be, that means it’s time to fix the rule book,” Terrazzano said. “The Auditor General report shows that taxpayers don’t understand what’s going on and neither do the tax collectors because the rules are impossibly complex.

“The government needs to change the rule book by simplifying the tax code.”

The views, opinions, and positions expressed by our columnists and contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of our publication.

Roll Yo r Dollars O er At Home

We o e it to o r friends and famil to keep all of the mone e spend orking for s here at home. If local dollars ere spent ith Vegre ille merchants, o r standard of li ing o ld be be er and o r comm nit o ld be more prospero s.

One of the most common and least sensible form of gi ing is the making of dona ons to the gro th of other comm ni es. E perts sa that e er dollar o spend t rns o er p to se en mes. That means that a dollar spent some here else ill take a a in trade, ages, local ta es and man other benefits.

It’s simple economics. It’s simple economics.

Thanks for shopping in Vegreville. The following businesses are concerned about the

Future of Vegreville.

Adam’s No Frills

780-603-2600

Agriterra Equipment

780-632-2514

Canadian Tire

780-632-2601

County of Minburn

780-632-2082

Ernie’s AutoBody

780-632-3011

Finelines Professional Painting and Decorating

780-991-1986

G&R Sand & Gravel Ltd.

780-632-1569

HCL Site Services

780-632-9723

Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk

780-632-6840

Kal Tire

780-632-6688

Lakeland Power Co-op

780-632-6112

Love’s Custom Meats

780-632-2700

OK Tire

780-632-2388

Rocky Mountain Equipment

780-632-6677

Royal Canadian Legion

780-632-3900

Rona / Vantage Builders

780-632-2119 / 780-632-3422

The Brick Vegreville

780-632-6100

Twin Lakes Ready-Mix & Aggregates

780-632-7787

Vegreville Auto Body

780-632-2445

Vegreville & District Co-op

780-632-2884

Vegreville Dental Centre

780-632-3368

Vegreville Drug Mart

780-632-7660

Vegreville Family Dental

780-632-3912

Vegreville Home Hardware

780-632-3388

Vegreville Mechanical

780-632-4140

Vegreville Plumbing & Heating

780-632-2275

Vito’s Steak & Pizza and Sports Lounge

780-632-3999

VM Systems

780-632-2859

Vegreville News Advertiser

780-632-2861

Webb’s Machinery

780-632-6772

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Night of Popular Pop Music

Appetite.

Connie Bay expressed that the meal was fabulous. The beef was flavourful and tender.

Diana Saric said it was a really good

supper. “I liked the fact that they had fruit as well. It was a well-balanced and healthy meal. The presentation of the food was good too.”

The band, The Yachty Boys, rocked the stage next, with their polished pop music. Each of their pieces was well-received by the audience.

This group is based out of Edmonton, and the band members are Ken Polansky, Sean Kaminski, Richard Korby, and Chris Bradshaw.

Polansky shared that performing this genre was a natural fit because they grew up with it, and they absolutely love it.

“Yacht is light rock and pop. We tried to find very danceable music, to add energy to the night and get the audience moving and dancing.

Right now, yacht rock is huge in the States. Canada is usually five years behind what happens there. But we are trend setters, and wanted to be the first to bring it to Alberta.

Our favorite part of performing is the crowd’s interaction; getting the people going, and watching them have as much fun as we are having.”

tirelessly-often beyond capacity-to deliver quality education in an increasingly complex and under-resourced environment.”

While they say they appreciated the Education Minister’s commitment as outlined in Premier Smith’s mandate letter and initiatives like increased mental health collaboration and efforts to support students with complex needs, they highlighted the fact that those initiatives are not yet translating into “meaningful improvements at the classroom level” in those two schools.

They also outlined the “mounting challenges” that are making it increasingly difficult to fulfill the educational mandate. These include:

• Severe underfunding and hiring of Educational Assistants due to restrictive coding and low wages, leaving students with moderate needs unsupported.

• Dramatic loss of effective programs such as PUF and UFLI literacy programming, as well as Mental Health Initiatives due to inconsistent or withdrawn funding.

• A funding model that does not account for increasing complexity, rising behavioural challenges, mental health struggles or rural concerns, even as staffing levels shrink.

• Unsustainable expectations on teachers, who must meet every student’s academic, emotional and social needs; often without basic resources like textbooks or supplies, and frequently at their own expense.

• Insufficient mental health supports for both students and staff, while violence and burnout escalate across classrooms.

• Inflexible policies such as restricted classroom funding procedures and inadequate support for grief leave or medical recovery, which hinder staff’s well being and student learning.

They are requesting a review of the educational funding model, prioritize consistent and adequate funding for early intervention programs and literacy supports, ensure equitable wage adjustments for educational assistants and support staff, expansion of mental health supports, and enable sustainable teaching conditions.

Buffalo Trail Public Schools Board Chair Kara Jackson, provided the following statement on behalf of the Board of Trustees:

The Board of Trustees of Buffalo Trail Public Schools recognizes the importance of all stakeholders and values how they work together for the betterment of the students, staff and communities throughout our Division. Engagement with our stakeholders continues to be a priority and in doing so, allows for positive advocacy at the local, provincial and federal levels.

We are encouraged that our students, parents and community members are using their voice to advocate for public education and changes that can benefit all students. Education is a partnership where responsibility for student growth and development is shared amongst students, schools, parents, families, school councils, communities and businesses as well as social agencies and the government. Our communities have a strong group of committed volunteers within our schools and we are thankful for them all.

While we acknowledge the challenges faced by urban schools, rural public schools experience unique pressures such as higher transportation costs, longer bus routes,

smaller student populations, recruitment issues and limited access to specialized services. These realities create funding challenges that impact how we deliver equitable opportunities across our division.

We are happy to hear the latest announcement that Alberta Education is committed to funding the hiring of more teachers, and support staff for school divisions across Alberta. At this time, we have not yet been provided with what that may look like for BTPS, but continue to work with the Ministry to submit all the data, and necessary information which they are seeking.

We encourage stakeholders to visit our website to view our

E. terry@prockiwlaw.ca

Attn: Terry Prockiw

Family Friendly Halloween Fun

The Kalyna Family Resource NetworkVegreville and Area was dark but in a bright way for the Friendly Monster Paper Bag Puppets Themed Stay and Play program on October 31.

Halloween songs played in the background while kids showcased their Halloween costumes during free play or tried out the craft project of creating a

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MUSIC

Old guitars wanted! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. Top dollar paid. Call 866-433-8277.

RENTALS

Willingdon - Two rooms for rent.

$400 each includes utilities. Call Ron 587-710-1856

TO GIVE AWAY

8-week-old kittens: Siamese, black, gray, orange or white. 780-6033531

Farm kittens to give away. Please call 780-632-1018.

To Give Away: Kittens: 2 male, 2 female; Blue heeler, puppies 2 male, 2 female and a female dog. Ph: 587280-1418.

Welcome!

or

for

bag, which could be used as a puppet or a treat bag.

The children also received special treats. Spokes Programmer Cheryl Sorensen said this project is good for developing gross and fine motor skills, as well as creativity and imagination. “It helps their symbolic thinking; turning paper into puppets helps children understand how objects can represent characters and ideas,” Sorensen added.

Moscow School Marker

Anton Powley Submitted

Sometime between October 13, 2025 and November 1, 2025, a piece of Alberta history was stolen when vandals stole three bronze plaques from the Moscow School Marker site located in the southeast corner of Lamont County. The marker was one of the greatest school monuments in the province. The marker was built in 2005 as one part of the Alberta province’s centennial projects. The school existed at the sight from 1905 to 1955, when rural schools were closed and students were bused to larger communities. Many former students, teachers, and community members celebrated the centennial at the site on August 6th, 2025.

This marker was constructed as centennial project by members of the “Friends of Moscow School Historical Society” to celebrate the pioneers’ educa-

tion foresight when they came into the community in the early 1900’s. Moscow School was initially constructed at the site as a one room school in 1905 and later expanded to a two room school in 1923.

The left stolen bronze plaque of the maker provided a brief history of the lands within the MOSCOW SCHOOL DISTRICT NO, 1435, the names of all the school district’s trustees, and all the teachers of the one room and the expanded two room school.

The right stolen plaque listed the over three hundred students that attended the school over its fifty years of existence.

The smaller center stolen plaque provided information of the names of the founding Directors of the Friends of Moscow School Historical Society (this formal Society was dissolved in 2015), the names of all the donors to the project, and the names of additional students.

The marker was maintained by very few volunteers over the last twenty years with regular grass and ground cleanings during the summer and replacement of the Canadian and Alberta flags.

We ask that anyone with any information about this unfortunate incident please contact the Vegreville RCMP detachment.

Tributes

ZUK, Ruby

May 30, 1943 - November 4, 2015

In loving memory of our dear sister Ruby Zuk (Hook) who passed away November 4, 2015

If yellow roses grow in heaven Lord

Please pick a bunch for us

Place them in our sister’s arms and tell her that they’re

Tell

Place

Sadly missed always remembered Albina, Dianna and our families

Edna PESARUK

Do not stand at my grave and weep.

I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn’s rain…

When you awaken, in the morning’s hush…

I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry.

I am not there; I did not die.

Forever loved;

Grant, Kerri-Anne, grandsons

Tristen, Triefen & Trayden Pesaruk

WINDELS, Clifford Karl

On October 17th, 2025, Clifford Karl Windels of Vegreville passed away peacefully at the age of 95 years. Cliff is survived by his four children Robin, Warren, Max, and Karla, grandchildren Chris, Shaun, Michael, James, and Claire, and his two sisters Janet and La Reina. Cliff was predeceased by his wife May (Tizzard), first wife Audrey (Alderson), brothers Clarence and Charles, and his parents Herman and Anna (Heppner).

The funeral service will be held Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 5258 - 46th Avenue, Vegreville.

Pastor Jeremy Wellman will be officiating with interment in Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of other tributes, donations may be made to the Seventh-Day Adventist Church or a charity of one’s choice.

Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com.

Park Memorial Vegreville 780-632-2000

Family-Owned Funeral Home And Crematorium

Akasu Palliative Care Society Creates New Initiatives

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

The Akasu Palliative Care Board has worked very hard for the past year, creating a safe place for palliative patients at St. Joseph’s Hospital, offering educational opportunities, and fostering community connections, were the words of Chairperson Charlene Melenka at the Akasu Palliative Care Society Annual General Meeting at Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville. There were 749 volunteer hours for the 2024/2025 Fiscal Year.

Melenka went on to express that the community benefited from several new initiatives. New furniture was purchased for the Palliative Care rooms at St. Joseph’s Hospital, sheepskins were bought for comfort

for the patients, and a great relationship between St. Joseph’s Hospital and Akasu has been created.

A new relationship between Mundare Mary Immaculate Hospital and Akasu has been formed, with the help of the new Chaplain Dwayne Buhler. “We hope to create a palliative suite in Mary Immaculate Hospital. Generous donations from the community at large have enabled Akasu to do some amazing comfort care for palliative patients within the Vegreville/Mundare area. The new Terms of Reference have created a strong focus for the group and ensure member safety when volunteering.”

Melenka closed by saying that she is wanted to express gratitude to the Board of Akasu Palliative Care Society. “This group is such a blessing to the

community. The ability to see what needs are in the community and then to take action is the strength of this board. As a group the commitment to patient care and comfort is the primary focus due to the caring nature of you all. This year we lost a very close and dear friend, Barb Bienvenue. The silence from her corner of the table has been noticed, but I believe she is still supporting us in her heavenly role.”

After this were the Executive and Board Member Elections were held, where Charlene Melenka was acclaimed as Chairperson, Ardythe Butler as ViceChairperson, Anita Wilson as Treasurer, Charlene Melenka as Facebook Manager, and Website Manager. Fern Giebelhaus was appointed as Secretary, and Tracy Benoit agreed to be a new member.

Tofield Legion Launches Poppy Campaign

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

With smiling faces, children rushed to participate in the games at the Glow in the Dark Party hosted by the Anglican and United Church Ministries on October 31, 2025.

There were 11 children, six adults, and nine volunteers.

The games they offered were neon bowling, putt to the hole, eyeball in the socket, glow corn hole, make-and-take a pumpkin/mummy/witch craft, glow balloon toss, and an open mic joke session. At each station, there were treats for each participant.

Coordinator Holly Cependa explained

Crazy Laws Florida

a salon.

Happy Halloween Party

that they chose this theme because this was their second safe Halloween Party with the church. Last year, they chose Space Quest, and they were looking for another theme and came across ‘A Glow in the Dark Party’. The organizing team thought that it would be an easy theme to come up with games and food.

Cependa went on to say, “At our children’s programs, the kids are always telling jokes-- so we thought we would add an ‘Open mic Joke time’ to the event. We were lucky to find numerous family-friendly jokes for the participants to share. That was a great way to end the party - the kids had an opportunity to do some public speaking with a microphone while the rest of the audience enjoyed some food from ‘Not Your Mummy’s Kitchen’.

On how it went overall, Cependa stated, “The organizing committee thought that everything went well. The decorations, the food, the games, and the laughter were appreciated by everyone!

When everyone left, they had some exercise, they’d been fed, and everyone enjoyed a time of laughter. We ended the event with a Halloween Prayer:

This is our Halloween Prayer for you -

May God bless you in all you do!

May the only ghost that comes to stay be the Holy Ghost that guides your way.

May the only spirits that you meet be the Spirit of love and friends so sweet.

Enjoy your evening and be safe. Amen.”

Cependa added that they are grateful for the support from the members of our congregations, donors, volunteers, and those who come to enjoy the activities. “We are truly blessed to live in such a supportive community!”

New Furniture for St. Joseph’s General Hospital

Parcel #1 - Selling the S 1/2 of 31-50-17 W4

being 320 Acres M/L of Mixed Farm Land

 Consists of 190 Acres of Cultivated Land & 130 Acres of Pasture, Multiple Dugouts, Fenced & Cross Fenced with 4 & 5 Wire

 Just Minutes from Either Riley or Tofield

Parcel #3 - Selling the SE 21-49-17 W4 being 160 Acres M/L

 Consisting of 50 Acres of Cultivated & 110 Acres of Fenced Pasture Land. Lease Revenue of $2,000 per year.

 Located in the Heart of Beaver County, Just 3 Miles from Riley

Akasu Palliative Care

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Canada Holds the Upper Hand in Any Canola Deal with China

China is desperate for our canola, and Canada has more leverage than we think

Doug Firby Troy Media

Canada appears to be closing in on a trade détente with China, which could once again open that market to our canola products. As tantalizing as that prospect is, our negotiators should not forget they don’t have to give away the farm to get this deal.

Canola is Canada’s most valuable crop, generating billions in exports each year. Roughly 90 per cent of what we grow is sold abroad, and China has long been one of the top buyers. That’s why Beijing’s decision to impose a 100 per cent tariff on Canadian canola oil and meal and a 75.8 per cent tariff on canola seed in mid-August has hit farmers so hard.

The move was retaliation for Ottawa’s 100 per cent tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles. Ottawa said the tariff was needed because Chinese automakers

enjoy massive state subsidies, allowing them to sell EVs at artificially low prices that could overwhelm Canadian and U.S. producers.

Saskatchewan exported $96 million in goods to China in August—about three-quarters less than in August 2023 when agricultural exports to China totalled $3.7 billion, making it Saskatchewan’s second-largest agri-food export destination.

China’s ambassador to Canada, Wang Di, says the solution is simple: if Canada drops the EV tariff, China will remove its agricultural tariffs. But Canada may not need to go that far.

China cannot easily replace millions of tonnes of high-quality Canadian seed. Imports from India and Australia don’t match the volume or quality, and Chinese futures markets are already showing strain. If farmers can weather the chill, Canada may have more leverage than expected.

The European Union offers another example. It keeps a 30 per cent tariff on Chinese EVs but exempts those made in EU factories. The result has been billions of dollars in Chinese investment, as automakers and battery firms build new plants and partnerships.

“Tariff barriers will push Chinese automakers to accelerate localized production,” said Fu Bingfeng, secretary-general of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers. “As of 2025, five Chinese automakers have announced plans to build

factories in Europe, with total investment surpassing 20 billion euros ($36.2 billion). Once operational, these plants will help evade tariff costs and improve the supply chain.”

BYD, China’s largest EV maker, is building a factory in Hungary and planning another in Turkey. Major battery makers such as CATL have also invested heavily in Europe. These moves show how well-designed tariffs can attract jobs and technology instead of pushing trade away.

European automakers, rather than resisting, are cooperating with Chinese firms, saying the partnerships strengthen supply chains, improve electrification and support local research.

Canada lacks the EU’s market clout, but it could still serve as a North American toehold for Chinese automakers, especially as our domestic industry faces decline. The 1965 Auto Pact gave Canada guaranteed production shares and jobs in exchange for open access to the U.S. market, anchoring our auto industry for decades. But that arrangement has steadily eroded.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s push to shift all auto manufacturing to the United States is accelerating the trend. Stellantis has announced it will move Jeep production from Brampton, Ont., to Illinois, while Ford and GM are also scaling back in Canada. As the Detroit Three edge toward the exits, Canada needs new partners.

Emulating the EU approach, maintaining tariffs to guard against cheap, subsidized imports while encouraging investment and joint ventures, could help preserve jobs and bring capital to our auto industry. Partnerships of this kind could even breathe life into projects like Project Arrow, a Canadiandesigned concept vehicle showcasing the country’s ability to build a zero-emissions car. A real partnership with Chinese automakers could turn that demonstration into production, making Canada more than just a branch plant economy.

The stakes are high. Canada’s auto sector still supports about 125,000 direct jobs, and losing more ground would further weaken our manufacturing base.

There are risks, however. Canadians can’t ignore China’s human rights abuses, from the treatment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang to the crackdown in Hong Kong. And trading dependence on Washington for reliance on Beijing is hardly a cure-all. Any deal must be negotiated from a position of strength, with safeguards to protect Canadian workers and sovereignty.

Which brings us back to canola. China needs it. We’re willing to sell it. But we don’t have to—nor should we—give away the farm.

Doug Firby is an award-winning editorial writer with over four decades of experience working for newspapers, magazines and online publications in Ontario and western Canada. Previously, he served as Editorial Page Editor at the Calgary Herald.

In Memory of Our Heroes

On this Remembrance Day, take the time to stop and think about the thousands of Canadians who have selflessly given their lives to protect this beautiful nation.

courage remembered and honoured

anks to these courageous men and women who bravely fought in the name of freedom, Canadians have the opportunity to live in a country where peace and democracy reign free.

To honour their memory and acts of valour, wear your poppy proud, and participate in a moment of silence at 11:11 a.m., wherever you may be.

Cam Pomeroy’s Desire to Serve

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Cam Pomeroy wanted to join the Canadian Forces from an early age because he came from a military family. Both his mother and father served during World War II. “My father was in the Canadian Army, while my mother served in the Navy as a Wren. All my uncles served during World War II, as well. I grew up with my father telling all about his service, and I always wanted to do something that not everybody did.”

Pomeroy enlisted in the Army in 1984. His training, together, took a total time of about two years. His trade in the Army was Infantry. His first posting was to the Canadian Airborne Regiment. While there, he served within the regiment, in 3 Commando, and the RECCE platoon, which at the time was the most elite

The youngest member of the British Armed Forces to die in WWII was Reginald Earnshaw, who was 14 years and 152 days

unit in the Canadian Army. While in the regiment, Pomeroy trained in various locations across Canada, the US, and Germany, and he served on the UN mission to Somalia. “I was then posted to the Canadian Airborne Center, where we taught all different phases of parachuting, as well as equipment loads for air drops. I left the Airborne center for 3 PPCLI. While there, I served on a UN tour of duty in the Balkans. My final posting was to Ottawa, to JTF2, where I served all over the world in covert missions. After 911, I served four separate tours in Afghanistan. Our primary role over there was acting on intelligence reports and performing kill or capture missions on senior Taliban leaders. I retired medically in November 2002.”

Pomeroy went on to express that the highlights of his service would have to be the lifelong brothers that he has from it, as well as getting to see some parts of the world that very few get to see. “The major challenges that my service has created for me have to be the long-term physical injuries that I now have to live with each day, as well as I developed PTSD from being exposed to severe mental trauma while deployed on tours in very violent and dangerous places in the world. I have been asked several times if it was worth it, and I’ll reply as such: “I wasn’t looking for riches or money or medals. I was doing what I thought was important in protecting our country and the peace that we enjoy. And you’d be surprised at what a simple thank you means to me.”

Joseph Kramer (1906-1945), a commander of Bergen-Belsen, was known as the “Beast of Belsen.” When asked if he “felt anything” as he watched and participated in the deaths of thousands of men, women, and children, Kramer said he didn't feel anything because he was following orders. He was later executed for crimes against humanity.

Honour Our Veterans Banner Program

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

The Honour Our Veterans Banner Program is an initiative of the Swift Current Museum to pay tribute to local veterans and active service members.

According to the City of Swift Current’s website, the first installation of banners took place in 2016 in Memorial Park and is an ongoing legacy project. “Through the displaying of the banners, we hope to engage the community in honouring and remembering local veterans through an initiative that will ensure continued recognition and respect through future generations.”

The program is sponsored through the purchase of individual banners. Banners are displayed for a period of three years, after which the sponsor can keep the banner as a family keepsake.

The Poppy

I’m not a badge of honour, Nor a racist smear.

I’m not a fashion statement to be worn once a year.

I’m not a glorification of conflict or war.

I’m not a paper ornament, nor a simple token. I am so much more.

I’m a loving memory of a family or a friend.

A permanent reminder of each and every one.

I’m paper, fabric, or enamel.

I’m old or shiny and new.

I’m a way of saying “Thank You” to each and every one of you.

I am a red poppy.

A reminder to all of you that courage, faith, and honour will always stand where heroes fall.

Honour Our Veterans Initiative

Showing Respect to Veterans

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Showing appreciation to our veterans should happen all year long. There are many ways to do this.

These could include inviting them to lunch.

We can listen to their stories or offer to write these down in a booklet to have a keepsake for their families or relatives.

Wear a poppy during Veteran’s Week.

Read their stories to children and students at schools.

Watch films and movies about their service.

Send thank you cards to veterans.

Join your local Legion branch and volunteer your time.

Attend Veterans Day events or parades.

Contact your local MP or MLA to ask for increase wages and pensions for military personnel, firefighters, and members of RCMP.

If you have the resources, join groups that financially support veterans who are injured or become disabled due to their service.

Have elementary students draw pictures and write thank you notes.

Shake their hand and thank them for their service any day of the year.

Legion Riders

Whether you are new to riding or a tail gunner, Legion members who share a passion for the road are encouraged to join the Legion Riders. The Legion Riders offers a great opportunity for our members to support their community while enjoying their love of motorcycling.

Beyond enjoying the ride together, Legion Riders generate awareness of the Legion, strengthen support for Veterans, RCMP members and their families, and engage Canadians in community service and fundraising. By wearing the Legion Riders crest, Legion Riders show their pride in the Legion and help promote all that the Legion stands for.

Town of Mundare

E G T E L Engraving g & Gifts

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Engraving - Trophies - Gifts- Souvenirs - Jewellery (780) 764 - 3929

Calvin Graham was only 12 years old when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He won a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart before the Navy found out how old he was.

The country with the largest number of WWII causalities was Russia, with over 21 million.

BMO Bank of Montreal 5102 50 Street Vegreville, AB 780-632-2864

John Wayne (Marion Robert Morrison) starred in 14 WWII movies; however, due to a football injury, he never actually served in the war.

William Hitler, a nephew of Adolf Hitler, was in

Navy during WWII. He changed his

Only months after the end of World War I local surviving veterans recognized the need for an organization to represent them and their needs and in January 1919 a founding meeting took place that resulted in a Great War Veterans Association unit being formed in Vegreville.

Remembrance Day - 2025 Vegreville Social Centre

Please be seated by 10:45 as Ceremony will start at 11:00.

MARCH ON THE COLOURS

NATIONAL ANTHEM: O CANADA

LAST POST: Silence / Lament / Rouse

ACT OF REMEMBRANCE

We Will Remember Them Response: We Will Remember Them

COLOUR PARTY DEPOSITS COLOURS

RETIRE COLOUR PARTY

INVOCATION:

The Rev. Laureta Blondin, Branch Chaplain

LAYING OF WREATHS

RETIRE CENOTAPH GUARDS

WELCOME, OPENING REMARKS & INDIGENOUS LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: Comrade Terry Kuzyk, President, Legion Branch No. 39

SCRIPTURE READINGS: Matthew 5:1-12 Bryan Butler

CHAPLIN’S MESSAGE - The Rev. Laureta Blondin

PRAYER FOR PEACE: Ellen Johnstone

OFFERING:

Vegreville Handbell Choir, lead by Lisa Topilko

HYMN‘ABIDE WITH ME’

World War II happened on a global scale. It was so big and complex that it can be difficult to think about it in terms of actual people—mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles—families whose lives and relationships were never the same again.

In a counter-offensive after Germany's attack on Moscow, the Soviet Red Army attacks Kharkov, Ukraine with the aid of 1,500 tanks and 1,000 aircraft but German intelligence alerts the Axis to the campaign. Facing nearly 300,000 casualties and gaining little traction, the Soviets are forced to concede.

PRESENTATIONS:

Bob & Jean Kelly Scholarships:

- Sage Lappa, St. Mary’s Catholic High School

- Layne Lowes, Vegreville Composite Jr/Sr High School

CLOSING REMARKS:

Comrade Terry Kuzyk, President

BENEDICTION:

The Rev. Laureta Blondin, Acting Branch Chaplain

Lest We Forget Response: Lest We Forget

COLOUR PARTY RETRIEVES COLOURS

“God Save the King”

COLOUR PARTY RETIRES COLOURS

REMEMBRANCE DAY PARTICIPANTS 2025

• Royal Canadian Legion, Branch No. 39 President: Comrade Terry Kuzyk

• Royal Canadian Legion, Branch No. 39 Chaplain: The Reverend Laureta Blondin

• Master of Ceremonies Comrade Terry Kuzyk

• Pianist Brenda Tuck

• Bugler W. G. McMunn

• Piper Robert MacGregor

• Representing the Silver Cross Mother Comrade Heike Seniuk

• Honourary Lt. Col. Anne McLellan, PC, OC, AOE

• 41 CER Deputy Commanding Officer Major Ivan Siy, CD

• 25 Engineer Squadron Sgt. Major MWO Daniel Racette, CD

• Cenotaph Guard Commander Sgt. Sheldon Forbes, DC

• Cpl. John Erasmus

• Cpl. Michael Chesnic

• Cpl. Ryan Visscher

• Cpl. Erick Warnke

• Cpl. Tyrell Flett

• Sergeant-at-Arms Comrade Clarence Blondin

Legion Colour Party:

⁍ Veterans, Members of Legion Branch No. 39

⁍ Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary Branch No. 39

⁍ 41 Combat Engineer Regiment

⁍ HMCS Nonsuch

⁍ RCMP Vegreville Detachment and Veterans

⁍ No. 341 Air Cadets, Mundare Squadron

⁍ Vegreville Emergency Services

⁍ Vegreville Fire Department

VEGREVILLE ACCOUNTING

The poppy became widespread in Europe after soils in France and Belgium became rich in lime from debris and rubble from the fighting during the First World War. These little red flowers also flourished around the gravesites of the war dead.

On May 2, 1915, after his friend Lieutenant Alexis Helmer was killed and buried in a makeshift grave, McCrae was inspired by the poppies blooming among the crosses to write In Flanders Fields the next day.

History

of Service

Canadian Veterans have served throughout history in a broad range of conflicts and situations – from world wars to peacekeeping missions to crises on the homefront. The Royal Canadian Legion is committed to honouring and remembering all Veterans, whether they served in theatre or on Canadian soil, whether they kept the peace or fought for peace, whether they found themselves in combat or in support of operations.

The Legion honours and supports Veterans of Canada from all wars – recent and past.

Afghanistan War 2001 - 2014

Korean War 1950 - 1953

First World War 1914 - 1918

Persian Gulf War 1990 - 1991

Second World War 1939 - 1945

South African War 1899 - 1902

Peacekeeping

Canadian Veterans have protected the rights and freedoms of Canadians and people from countries all over the world through peacekeeping missions. The Legion supports Veterans of missions including Lebanon, Somalia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Haiti, Sudan, and others.

On the homefront

Many Canadian Veterans have played a critical role in protecting Canadians on the homefront – whether from fires, floods and other threats, these men and women have risked their lives for our safety and protection.

The Legion also understands the sacrifices of military families, the fathers, sons, mothers and daughters who have endured alongside Canadian Veterans. The Legion strives to support those families through a range of programs and referral services.

Honouring and Remembering Canada’s Veterans

The Legion acknowledges the end of conflicts and does not commemorate the start of conflicts. The most sacred day of Remembrance is Remembrance Day. Every year, on November 11, the Legion recognizes all of Canada’s Veterans, serving and retired, and commemorates our Fallen, including the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP, Peace Officers, Merchant Navy, and Reserves. On that day, we also honour the families and their losses.

The Royal Canadian Legion is Committed to Ensuring Youth Understand

and Continue the Tradition of Remembrance

In a bizarre move, Hitler's deputy and confidant Rudolf Hess parachuted into Scotland on May 10, 1941, to negotiate a peace agreement. The British concluded he was mentally unstable. He was kept as a POW and given a life sentence at the Nuremberg War Crimes Trial.

Legion Branches support youth involvement in Remembrance in a variety of ways. From holding Remembrance ceremonies at schools, speaking with students and youth organizations about Veterans, inviting youth to participate in community and Branch commemorative services, to inviting Cadets to help with the Poppy Campaign, and much more. Legion Branches offer youth many opportunities to get involved and participate in honouring and Remembering Canada’s Veterans.

to $21 trillion in 2022), making it the most expensive war in

Activities for Youth include:

- Remembrance Poster, Literary & Video Contests

- Make a Poppy Crafts

- Grow a Poppy Garden

In Flanders Fields was first published in England's Punch magazine in December 1915. Within months, this poem came to symbolize the sacrifice of all who were fighting in the First World War

By June 1940, nearly all of Western Europe was under Nazi control. In a speech to the British House of Commons, Prime Minister Winston Churchill told his fellow politicians, “The Battle of France is over. I expect the Battle of Britain is about to begin.” The fighting that followed took place mainly in the air.

The Poppy. To Honour and Remember

From the last Friday in October to Remembrance Day, millions of Canadians wear a Poppy as a visual pledge to never forget those who served and sacrificed. The red flower also is the symbol of the Legion’s Poppy Campaign, raising funds to support Veterans and their families in need. We invite everyone across the country to show their recognition by proudly wearing this symbol of Remembrance.

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

“In Flanders Fields” is a poem written during the First World War by Canadian Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae after he presided over the funeral of a friend and fellow soldier. So many years later, his poem continues to poignantly express the tragedy of the losses of war. So many years later, his poem continues to poignantly express the tragedy of the losses of war, and the importance of carrying on their memories.

Wear a Poppy to honour and remember Canada’s Veterans.

How to wear your Poppy

The Legion’s lapel Poppy is a sacred symbol of Remembrance and should not be affixed with a pin that

National Youth Remembrance Contests

Through the annual National Youth Remembrance Contests, the Legion National Foundation, with the assistance of The Royal Canadian Legion and schools across the country, invite Canadian youth and children

With Adolf Hitler leading a German invasion of Poland in 1939, World War II was launched, a deadly global conflict waged across Europe and the Pacific until 1945. Bloody battles raged between the Allied powers, which included Britain, France, the Soviet Union and the United States, along with other nations, and the Axis, notably Germany and Japan.

to honour Canada’s Veterans and foster the tradition of Remembrance through visual art, writing, and video. All winners at the national level are awarded a cash prize for their work. First Place Senior Winners are eligible for our most prestigious award – a trip to Ottawa and an opportunity to represent the youth of Canada at the National Remembrance Day Ceremony.

Poster, literary and video contests

The contests include multiple levels of competition. Poster and literary works compete first at the Legion Branch local level, with winning entries moving forward until they reach the provincial level. Video entries compete first at the Legion Command provincial level. Provincial finalists of all contests then move forward for final judging by the Legion National Foundation to determine the national winners.

Although Japan fought on the side of Britain, France, and the U.S. during WWI, it felt cheated by its failure to gain much territory when the peace treaty was composed. Additionally, in the 1920s, its government came under control of fanatical nationalists and allied with the army, which eventually prompted Japan to side with Germany.

now iconic "We Can Do

obstructs the Poppy. The Poppy should be worn on the left side, over the heart.

When to wear your Poppy

The lapel Poppy should be worn during the Remembrance period, from the last Friday in October until November 11. The Legion encourages the wearing of Poppies at funerals of Veterans, and for any commemorative event such as a memorial service, or the anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

How to remove a Poppy

When a Poppy is removed, it should be stored appropriately, or disposed of respectfully. We encourage anyone who finds a Poppy that has fallen to the ground to pick it up, brush it off, wear it or dispose of it with respect.

The Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Poster, Literary and Video contests are currently running and are open to ALL students in our area, K through 12.

Please go to the link below to access information on the contests, or contact our Branch at 780-632-3900 for more information.

The deadline for submissions to the Vegreville Branch is November 24, 2025.

Please ensure the entry forms are completely filled out or the submission may be rejected.

https://www.remembrancecontests.ca/

A Day to Honour Those Who Defended Peace

4917 51 Ave, Vegreville, AB

(780) 632-3998

The greatest tank battle in history occurred between the Germans and Russians at the Kursk salient in Russia from July 4-22, 1943.

More than 3,600 tanks were involved.

November 11 marks

Remembrance Day in Canada. Every year, Canadians come together to honour the courage and sacrifices of the men and women who serve or have served in the country’s armed forces, and particularly those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Here’s a look at this day of gathering and remembrance.

Evocative numbers

It’s important to remember the sacrifices made by the more than 2,300,000 individuals who have joined the armed forces in Canada’s national history. Over 118,000 brave servicemen and women have given their lives to defend freedom. Remembrance Day honours the Canadian effort in the First and

Second World Wars, the Korean War, the war in Afghanistan and all peacekeeping missions.

Nationally recognized

On November 11, Canadians wear a poppy to pay tribute to veterans. The national ceremony in Ottawa, broadcast across the country, is held in the presence of government representatives. It includes a two-minute silence at 11 a.m., readings, songs and symbolic cannon shots.

As a Canadian citizen, join the veterans in your area in this collective duty of remembrance. Contact your local municipality to find out about Remembrance Day activities near you.

The last American

a military powerful enough to conquer Europe and possibly even the world. Hitler chose Poland as a target for his ambitions and began the German invasion of Poland on September 1.

Ben Brachmann Enjoys Belonging to Legion

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Vegreville resident Ben Brachmann has been a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 39 for three years now. Before that, he was an Associate member of the Ponoka Branch for seven years.

Brachmann decided to join the legion because he always liked to support the veterans. “Joining the branch, volunteering, and helping out is a good thing to do,” Brachmann expressed.

Branchmann also has family members who were veterans. “My father was a Military Police officer in the army during World War II, and my grandmother was involved in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) where she served in the Canadian Air Force.

Branchmann said he didn’t have any stories from his relatives’ experiences during this war period because his grandmother skipped over any mention of her time in service and she passed away when he was young. His father also didn’t like to talk about the war.

Remembering Veterans

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Residents of Vegreville and Area spoke about why we should honour veterans.

Shannon Kerr-Sotir shared that many soldiers found love and married before coming home to Canada. There were lots of War Brides.

Terence Thorne expressed that his great-grandfather was a paratrooper in World War II. At 16, he took his big brother’s ID, who was 18, and voluntarily went into that war. Our country was under threat, and he just wanted to make a change. I’ll always honour our vets.

“My son is also a retired RCMP member. So, that motivates me to want to belong to the legion.”

Brachmann really likes belonging to the legion and feels it is essential to bring new members to the legion because they will bring new ideas and perspectives.

“It help to grow the branch. Belonging to the legion is like being in a club; you get to meet new people, get to know them, and the good feeling of helping to serve the community because you are volunteering. For Remembrance Day, you are helping promote the poppies; for Decoration Day, you are putting the flags out. We also give out scholarships to students, and do other services to the community,” Branchmann said.

Branchmann reflected that we can get more people to join the military by giving them exposure, such as the Open House at the Legion event. “At this time, we talked about being a veteran and what it is like to belong to the military. It is a good thing to serve your country,” Branchmann added.

fice, so they should be honored. Sarah King commented that if we fail to remember our past, we will be doomed to repeat it.

Brittnay Martiniuk mentioned that having appropriate mental health care is one of the main ways to honor Veterans and show them their country cares about the sacrifices they’ve made, emotional and physical.

During WWII, hamburgers in the U.S. were dubbed “Liberty Steaks” to avoid the Germansounding name.

M&Ms were first sold exclusively to the US Army for soldiers during WWII, and they were not allowed to sell the candy to the public until after the war.

Christina Ann Marie said the veterans were the light that defended us against the darkness. Without their courage and sacrifice, Canada could have become a very different country. “While I’m certain they would be horrified and dismayed by what our nation has become, a country we were once proud to call home, their efforts ensured it was never overtaken by foreign powers.

“I should also mention! The war is where he found his wife and continued the family legacy. Great grandma was a medic. I never got the whole story, but it sounds like a World War II romance.”

Beth Anne MacConnell mentioned they should be honored every day.

Myrna St. Germain said they made the ultimate sacri-

We should honor them by keeping their legacy alive. Regardless of where Canada stands today, the significance of their sacrifice cannot be forgotten and forever celebrated,” Christina Ann added.

You’re at home here.

After a nearly four-month air campaign waged over England, Britain's Royal Air Force and Navy respond to heavy bombing attacks from Germany's Luftwaffe air force, including “the Blitz,” in an attempt to destroy the RAF before invading. Defense systems, including radar, and Hitler's decision to bomb London, rather than military bases, allows Britain to regroup and eventually win the battle. The deadliest battle of World War II was the Battle of Stalingrad, which had an estimated 2 million casualties in the 5 months that the battle took place (August 23rd 1942 to February 2nd, 1943)

Every year, The Royal Canadian Legion conducts the Poppy Campaign, along with thousands of our members who volunteer from coast to coast to coast, to raise funds in support of Veterans and their families. Poppies are distributed freely, but your generous donations are

The History of the Poppy

Napoleonic Wars

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Canadians took part in many smaller actions throughout the war, such as the Battle of Leliefontein on November 7, 1900, which involved 3 Victoria Cross recipients.

Facial reconstruction surgery advanced greatly during World War I. At Sidcup, Harold Gillies’ plastic surgery clinic treated thousands of disfigured soldiers, especially from the Battle of the Somme.

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Hitler kept a framed photo of Henry Ford, founder of the Ford Motor Company, on his desk. Henry Ford also kept a framed photo of the Nazi leader on his desk in Dearborn, Michigan. In Mein Kampf, Hitler included some anti-Semitic views attributed to Ford.

The significance of the Poppy can be traced back to the Napoleonic Wars in the 19th century, over 110 years before being adopted in Canada. Records from that time indicate that thick Poppies grew over the graves of soldiers in Flanders, France. Fields that had been barren before battle exploded with the blood-red flowers after the fighting ended.

First World War

The person who first introduced the Poppy to Canada and the Commonwealth was Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae of Guelph, Ontario, a Canadian Medical Officer

during the First World War. John McCrae penned the Poem “In Flanders Fields” on a scrap of paper in May 1915 on the day following the death of a fellow soldier. Little did he know then that those 13 lines would become enshrined in the hearts and minds of all who would wear them. McCrae’s poem was published in Punch Magazine in December of that same year.

1921

The idea for the Remembrance Poppy was imagined by Madame Anna Guérin of France. She was inspired by John McCrae’s poem “In Flanders Fields.” Anna had originally founded a charity to help rebuild regions of France after the First World War, and created poppies made of fabric to raise funds. Later, Anna presented her concept to France’s allies, including the precursor to The Royal Canadian Legion, The Great War Veterans Association. The idea was considered at a meeting in Port Arthur, Ontario (now Thunder Bay) and was adopted on July 6, 1921.

Today

The Poppy is worn each year during the Remembrance period to honour Canada’s Fallen. The Legion also encourages the wearing of a Poppy for the funeral of a Veteran and for any commemorative event honouring Fallen Veterans. Thanks to the millions of Canadians who wear the Legion’s lapel Poppy each November, the little red flower has never died, and the memories of those who fell in battle remain strong.

Ways to Honour Veterans

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

We owe our freedoms and all the benefits we enjoy in life to our brave veterans, both past and present.

Some ways to show our appreciation are:

• Attend a commemorative event or luncheon and meet veterans.

• Wear a poppy.

• Take a veteran for lunch, dinner, or a drink.

• Create an Izzy doll.

• Ask them about their lives and stories, and take the time to listen.

• Visit them in a senior facility or hospital.

• Drive them to doctor’s appointments, or to visit their family.

• Write a poem or draw a poster for veterans.

• Send a care package.

• Visit them at home and offer to help with yard work or housework.

• Write a thank-you letter.

and over

Meet Warrior Warrant Officer Rick Tourigny, CD

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Vegreville resident Rick Tourigny is a retired veteran from the Canadian Armed Forces.

Warrant Officer Tournigy joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1989 because he wanted to do something worthwhile, travel the world, and serve his country. He took basic training at Cornwallis, Nova Scotia, and continued to Wainwright.

Tournigy served all over Canada and the world.

He started off as a normal, front-line soldier, and then was promoted to train guys on different courses, weapons systems, vehicles, cyber operations, and basic training.

Tournigy served two tours in an Afghanistan mission.

During his valuable experiences while serving, Tourigny shared that he saw both the worst and the best of people. “For example, in Afghanistan, the Insurgent Forces were using kids to set up the Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and then they were caught, and the kids were arrested for working for the insurgents.

The good I saw was traveling around the world and realizing that most people, even the Afghans, just want peace,” Tourigny explained.

Tourigny went on to say the challenges were taking courses and trying to learn the basic language. They had interpreters sometimes.

He retired in 2014, after serving in the war in

Afghanistan, because he had 12 different surgeries on his knees in his 25-year career. Tourigny expressed that he received a good pension for the disability from the CAF. But he would not recommend that other people join the CAF because, sadly, it has changed a lot since he was there. The main thing is the training, discipline is not the same, and the

Government doesn’t make it easy on members or veterans, too much Red Tape.

Tourigny added that he believes wars could only be prevented by not having world governments. “We will never have peace because people are greedy. Wars are caused by wanting minerals and land, or not agreeing on religion or politics.”

the huge gun could shoot a 2.5 ton shell over three miles. The shells were 24 inches wide and could go through eight to nine feet of concrete.

courage remembered and honoured

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

In addition to honouring veterans and the sacrifices they and their families made so we could live in peace. Remembrance Day is also about reflecting on the causes of war, how it might be prevented, and remembering to ensure this never happens again.

Citizens of Vegreville and Area gave insights into war. Loretta Neubuhr said conflicts happen because governments use anger, discontent, and subtle words to cause wars and other conflicts to divide and conquer the people. “When people come together in peace and harmony, the governments cannot do as they see fit. When the people stand together, there will be peace, not war.”

REMEMBER

Insights on Achieving Peace

Dennis Paradis shared that some politicians cause war, and innocent citizens are forced to make the sacrifice. “War would cease if we sent the politicians to fight instead.”

Sarah King shared that we can either annihilate not only ourselves but countless other species and ecosystems with fear, hate, and greed, or truly prosper healthily and sustainably with understanding, love, and compassion. “In the end, it’s up to us. We need to use our voices and stand together. Only time will tell, but I still have hope.”

Doreen Steiger said silence, violence, and hate are the result of chaos, which is sadly promoted by today’s elites. War is inevitable. Peace, understanding, and the ability to verbally express oneself with courage and

consciousness need relearning, and that takes time. “A societal norm built on quick fixes and a push-button mentality denies individuals the opportunity to find purpose and the confidence to pursue happiness. Dependency and direction from elites will ultimately lead to destruction unless one recognizes their individual strengths and unites with their neighbors, contributing collectively. Peace is the more attractive and rewarding option.”

Virginia Yakimovich expressed that when you consider the effort to destroy is a waste of life, time, energy, and resources. If the same effort were put into creating a better world, the earth could be a joyful place where every person is respected.

Support for Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers

The Royal Canadian Legion’s mission is to support Veterans, promote Remembrance and strengthen communities. As part of our commitment to our communities, the Legion is involved in developing youth leadership at the local and national level. Canada’s youth play a crucial role in the growth of our communities and in continuing the tradition of Remembrance.

The Royal Canadian Legion has a long and valued partnership with Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers (JCR). Cadets and JCR engage in varied and unique experiences and develop competencies in leadership, citizenship, and physical and mental fitness.

Cadets and JCR volunteer with the Legion Poppy Campaign, support our Veterans and take active roles in commemorative ceremonies across Canada. These

Vegreville, AB 780-632-6112

More than 650,000 Jeeps were built during WWII. American factories also produced 300,000 military aircraft; 89,000 tanks; 3 million machine guns; and 7 million rifles.

The Battle of the Bulge wasn't just a significant World War II battle—for some historians, the Battle of the Bulge is “the greatest battle in American military history.” The Allies had successfully landed in northern France and were pushing east towards Germany. That was when Hitler ordered his last great offensive of the war.

youth play a significant role in supporting Legion activities and promoting Remembrance. In return, Legion Branches assist corps, squadrons and patrols in various ways that add to the success of the programs. In addition to being a major sponsor and supporter of Cadet Corps, Squadrons and JCR Patrols across the country, the Legion sponsors the Cadet Medal of Excellence which honours outstanding Cadets and JCR. It is awarded in recognition of individual endeavours in citizenship, which enhance the aims and objectives of the Canadian Cadet Organizations.

Each year, select Cadets and JCR from across Canada assist dignitaries with their placing of wreaths during the National Remembrance Day Ceremony in Ottawa.

The Legion is proud to support Canadian Cadet Organizations and offers all Cadets and JCR, of age of majority, a one-year free membership in the Legion.

In Flanders Fields

by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae

May 3, 1915

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

(As published in Punch Magazine, December 8, 1915)