Every election season, we encourage eligible voters to exercise their right and, cast an informed vote for the candidate or cantidates they feel will best represent them as an elected offical.
It can be easy to forget the significance of a free and fair vote. There are always conspiracies and talk of voting fraud or election interference, but we live in a country where we can have confidence in our voting system.
I have spoken to people in other parts of the world who have stated “I need to go vote so my voting paper is not used by someone else,” which is clearly
a concern with either the system or the public’s understanding of how the vote is actually conducted. We have also seen video of votes being overseen by local militia or the military of a autocratic leader and in even more blatent cases, actual ballots being stuffed in ballot boxes and violence at voting stations.
It is not uncommon for international observers to go to regions where there are suspected irregularities only to confirm and be witness to the corruption. Often, those in power do not care who sees. Thankfully, Canada is a much different environment, and with that, we present the unofficial
The Results are In - CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
Vegreville Resident Inducted into Alberta Trades Hall of Fame
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Vegreville resident, and dean of Lakeland College’s School of Trades and Technology, Dave King, was recognized for his outstanding contributions to skilled trades and apprenticeship education in Alberta during a special ceremony on Sept. 26.
He was joined at the event by his wife Tori, daughters Devynn Teel and Courtney King, and Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, President and CEO of Lakeland College. King and his family have resided in Vegreville for the past 27 years and he has volunteered with a number of organizations since that time.
“I am incredibly humbled and grateful to be inducted into the 2025 Alberta Trades Hall of Fame. This recognition is not just for me, but for everyone who has been a part of my journey—my mentors, colleagues, and the incredible community of tradespeople who inspire me every day. Trades are the backbone of our industry, and it’s a privilege to be part of such a talented and dedicated group. I’m excited to continue contributing to the future of this field and to support the next generation of trades professionals.”
He added, “We come to work, we do our job and we hope we’ve changed people’s lives. I enjoy coming to work. I’m still a technician. I still love talking to my students,”
There have been many outstanding students from the region graduate from Lakeland College’s School of Trades since he began teaching there in 2006.”
of the School of Trades and Technology in December of 2014 and after the existing dean decided it was time to retire. I threw my name into the competition for dean. Low and behold, I was offered the position and started as dean on July 1, 2015. It was a meteoric rise from Instructor to dean, but I was ready, and it has been a great transition!
when you have a vision of the “bigger” picture!
I held the role of dean of ETC for just over a year but found many challenges in juggling the rigors of both schools and their schedules. I have relinquished the role of dean, ETC and have gone back to the sole role of dean, Trades and Technology.”
In 2021, I was afforded the opportunity to add the role of dean of the Emergency Training Centre to my portfolio as well as Trades & Technology. I give many thanks to the life experiences I have gone through along the way including over 18 years involved as a volunteer firefighter.
For King, “The most gratifying aspect for me is seeing people thrive in an environment they have chosen as a career, whether it is a staff/faculty member or a student. I also get to collaborate with my fellow deans within the college, province, and country, as we all have the same interest in higher education.
Since 2008 Lakeland students have earned 30 Alberta Provincial Skills Canada medals and six National Skills Canada medals. “I need to mention that Travis Dowhun, of Vegreville is one of those 30 provincial medalists. He received a silver medal in Automotive Technology in 2013.” Additionally, Lakeland students Benjamin Jamison and Logan Peters will be competing for Team Canada at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
With every job there is challenges and conflicts along the way, but after witnessing and being part of many tragic incidents as a firefighter and many scenarios involving my career in the trades, these everyday conflicts become very easy to resolve
“After nine years working with a great group and having over 500 students go through my classes, I decided to move more to the administrative side. I became Chair
As far as the future of trades and technology in the province, King replied, “I am very optimistic and excited about trades and technology in Alberta moving forward. Our Government of Alberta understands the importance of trades and technology within the province and beyond. I want to leave a legacy of having industry continue to regard Lakeland grads as highly sought after and professionally trained by some of the best faculty and staff in the post-secondary sector.”
Rob James, a member of the Alberta Board of Skilled Trades, (left) presents Dave King with his Alberta Trades Hall of Fame award. (Lakeland College/Submitted Photo)
Dave King celebrates his induction with, (from left to right), daughters Courtney King and Devynn Teel, wife Tori and Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland. (Lakeland College/Submitted Photo)
Precious Metals Recycling Roadshow Coming To
Vegreville
Precious Metals Recycling Roadshow coming to Vegreville
Terry Burrill is a precious metals buyer and President of TC Precious Metals headquartered in Airdrie, Alberta, and takes this show out to western Canada. TC Precious Metals will be in Vegreville making its way through Western Canada. You can bring your gold, silver, coins and Canadian paper money to the Vegreville Legion between 10am and 5pm each day. No appointment is required.
“TC Precious Metals has the unique advantage of dealing direct with a smelter” says Burrill. “This allows us to cut out one or even two middlemen. TC Precious Metals purchases gold and silver from other gold buyers, pawn shops, dentists, jewellers and jewellery makers as well as from the general public.” Gold is reaching record high prices and silver remains very strong.
TC Precious Metals analyzes your gold, silver, coins and paper money while you watch, with the process explained to you in detail. Coins with numismatic (collectable) value are set aside from those with a 'melt' value. Silver items such as jewelry and flatware are analyzed for hallmark identification. Items thought to contain gold will also be analyzed for hallmarks, and then confirmed using precise testing that is done while you watch. Then a cash offer is made,
and you decide to sell or not.
“If you decide to sell after hearing the quote, great, but it's also about information” says Burrill. “A lot of times people just need to know a ballpark price of what items are worth. There is no obligation and we don't pressure anyone into selling.” This is what sets us apart from the Quebec buyers, and their claim to pay the highest prices
“Nearly half of the world's annual gold harvest comes from recycled gold. Energy costs area about $500 to mine a new once of gold where recycled gold is about $10 per ounce.” A result of this is gold and silver purchased at the shows and later melted goes back into the market with a lower environmental impact.
Out of fashion jewelry, single earrings, broken chains, unloved jewelry, charm bracelets, dental gold, nuggets and fine gold are all accepted.
Sterling silver flatware sets. Another valuable item is coin with silver content. Dimes, Quarters, Half Dollars and Dollars from Canada and America can be sorted and the silver content determined in no time at all. People are encouraged to bring in any and all coins for assessment.
TC Precious Metals can assess and purchase Canadian and Dominion of Canada paper money. They have extensive experience working with estate, executors, widows and widowers in a respectful and caring manner. No appointment necessary.
The Golden Age of Stupidity
Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser – Opinion
There’s a lot of buzz about AI. You have likely heard a number of companies and acronyms such as OpenAI, ChatGPT, Claude, AGI and so on. The news is filled with instances where people have used AI for one purpose or another and things went wrong. In one example a lawyer in B.C. was reprimanded for citing two cases in a court filing that ended up being AI “hallucinations.”
Unfortunately, like with any tool, there are both good and bad that can come from their use and as we speed full throttle ahead, the bad seems to be showing up quickly. The internet in increasingly AI slop. You can’t go very far before coming across something AI generated and as AI advances, the information contained within it will essentially become the gray goo of information. AI learning from AI.
We also have more and more interactions with AI, be that in the form of a chat bot on a support site, or social media posts. It is estimated that 39% of business social media content is created with AI and 71% of all social media images are AI-generated. It is estimated that by the end of 2025, 90% of all internet content could be AI-generated.
Of course, businesses are using AI more now for efficiency and to augment staffing challenges. But what happens when
an AI answers your email, summarizes you meetings and replies to your texts? Well, that’s exactly what the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab set to find out. You can search out the information on research scientist Nataliya Kosmyna and her team if you wish, but I’ll give you the short version.
Kosmyna along with some colleagues set up an experiment where they measured the brain activity of test subjects while they wrote essays. They were divided into three groups. One wrote with no digital assistance, another used a search engine and the final group used the popular ChatGPT. You can already guess what they found. The more external help participants had, the lower their brain activity. To further evaluate their testing, they quizzed the participants right after handing in their papers if they could recall what they had written. “Barely anyone in the ChatGPT group could give a quote,” Kosmyna stated. Kosmyna indicated that while our brain loves shortcuts (think of a calculator vs doing math on paper), it needs friction to learn. You could draw a parallel to taking the elevator every day vs climbing a flight of stairs. Easier, yes… better for you, not necessarily. There have been studies about how seniors decline when their brains are not challenged. Doing the same complex task over and over again is not friction, it’s routine.
Last year, “brain rot” was named Oxford University Press’s word of the year. In 2020 we had “doomscrolling.” Interestingly, it was pointed out that only drug dealers and software companies refer to their clients as “users.” These systems are not only made to reduce friction and free up time, but they are also designed to keep our attention. Endless notifications on a device are not made to help us think more efficiently or more clearly. We are in a constant state of partial attention.
Another study conducted at Swiss Business School involved over 600 people of various ages. It found those who used AI more frequently scored lower on critical thinking.
With all this information and study, we are seeing the narrative change when it comes to education and career advice. We have moved from “learn to code” to “learn to code with AI” or “clean up the code” to even that now being a replaceable skill. Then it was you need to be able to fix robots. Most recently, the advice…. Learn to disconnect and communicate. Forge relationships, look people in the eye and understand what they are saying when you have a discussion. THESE are skills that AI cannot replace.
Many people have been told that not having the latest technology will put people at a disadvantage. However, what if all that technology is making us stupid? Since school is on everyone’s mind, I urge parents and educators alike to look up the book “Screen Schooled” by Joe Clement and Matt Miles. “Two Veteran Teachers Expose How Technology Overuse Is Making Our Kids Dumber.”
Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com
90 Years Ago – October 23, 1935
The Chamber of Commerce in Vegreville overwhelmingly voted down a resolution that asked the Chamber of Commerce to urge the Dominion government to withdraw from the League of Nations in the event that the League resorted to military measures in the ItaloEthiopian dispute.
Tony’s Pool Room in Willingdon will soon be in full swing, everything being spick and spat including the million-dollar front. Mr. Nickifor who has been doing the improvements, will soon have it in order.
Condition figures for the late sown crops in Canada in 1935, including peas, beans, corn, buckwheat, potatoes, alfalfa, and sugar beets, st ates the Dominion Bureau of Statistics, indicate that yields will be slightly below average but above the level of 1934,
In the twenty-five-year history of the Vegreville General Hospital, the staff has not seen so many babies as during the last week. They seemed to come to help celebrate the Silver Jubilee, as seventeen were born there during one week.
A spoonful of honey dissolved in a glass of warm milk is used by Finnish athletes as a creator of energy before undertaking strenuous exertion.
75 Years Ago – October 25, 1950
Miss Zenovia Pidruchney, a student of Vegreville High School, learned recently that she was elected Queen of Canada in a nationwide popularity contest sponsored by the Canadian Ukrainian Youth As sociation (CYMK), the young people’s organization of the Orthodox Church. Miss Pidruchney, with the support of the local CYMK club, received the largest number of votes of any contestant in Alberta and in Canada.
Decore and Koshuta’s new office building on 1st Avenue West just off the main street is shaping up nicely. The law firm expects to occupy their new establishment in three more weeks. The busy contractor has been Fred Carstensen, now of Vegreville.
A happy group of farmers met at the Greenland School (North of Dewberry) to officially turn the electricity on some 36 miles of newly constructed farm line. The switch was pushed by R. E. Walker, one of the original settlers of the community. The Greenland Rural Electrification Association Limited consists of Art Matheson, president; K. C. Walker, Vice-President; Frank Bowman, Steve Romanchuk, G . T. Skinner, H Matheson, R. S. Grey, Secretary-Treasurer.
50 Years Ago – October 23, 1975
The Provincial Government has refused to purchase the Sickman Hill area for the proposed ski and recreation area, it was learned at the Chamber of Commerce meeting. MLA for the Vegreville area, John Batiuk, stated the reason quoted was that the price is several times higher than the provincial government is willing to pay,
Lorraine Soltys of St. Martin’s School won the Agriculture Week essay contest and received a cheque for $25.00 Monday morning. Based on the theme “Agriculture and its importance to Alberta’s Economy,” the winning essay was one of the many entered.
Pearl Werezuk of Vegreville has been hired as teacher-supervisor for the 4-Plus Program. Originally from the Willingdon area, Mrs. Werezuk has been in the Vegreville area for around 19 years.
The town of Vegreville council approved, in principle, two major building proposals in the north section of town at the regular meeting. Local building contractor, Lawrence Geleta, was given the goahead for his townhouse units comprising three and four bedrooms. The town of Vegreville Council has accepted with regret the resignations of Arthur Ham and J.I. Kroeger from the Preventative Social Ser vices Board.
The Ranfurly 4-H Clothing Club held its regular organizational meeting. After discussion on whether or not to change the club from just a clothing club to a clothing club and something else, it was decided to organize a clothing and craft club.
25 Years Ago – October 24, 2000
Peter Dobbie won the Citizen of the Year award for 2000 and was presented the award by Kevin Garrett at the awards night put on by the Vegreville & District Chamber of Commerce awards night.
President Ben Wiebe presented Wendy Hopper with a life membership in the Vegreville & District Chamber of Commerce.
Wayne & Gerri Tuck won the Farm Family of the Year Award, at the Vegreville & District Chamber of Commerce Awards Night. Grant Durie presented the award.
Dan Beaudette presented the Business of the Year Award to Terry and Trevor Semeniuk of Vegreville Plumbing and Heating.
Kristen Kotelko received the Junior Citizen of the Year award from Orest Hlus of Holiday Photo at the Vegreville & District Chamber of Commerce Awards Night.
Li Giebelhaus accepted the Senior Citizen of the Year Award from Eddie Sadlowsky of Vegreville Ford at the Vegreville & District Chamber of Commerce Awards Night.
Two vacant buildings were destroyed by fire in Mannville. Vermilion RCMP Sgt. Mike Diack reported that the two buildings, formerly Smart Meats and a pool hall, were attached to the North side of Wessel’s Department Store.
Letters Welcomed Alberta’s Finances are Sliding Back Into Familiar Boom-and-Bust Territory
Lennie Kaplan Troy Media Contributor
News that the Alberta government will likely run higher deficits this year and next is no surprise— they’re the cost of building long-term government spending on volatile oil prices.
Using more realistic assumptions for West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil prices—the global benchmark that determines how much Alberta earns from oil royalties—I now estimate that Alberta’s budget shortfalls will be $7.7 billion in 2025/26, $8.8 billion in 2026/27 and $7.6 billion in 2027/28.
These estimates are based on projected WTI prices of US$62.15 per barrel in 2025/26, US$65.00 in 2026/27 and US$67.00 in 2027/28. They also assume the government can hold its operating spending flat at $65 billion in 2026/27, rising to $66.5 billion in 2027/28—just a 2.5 per cent increase.
Between 2022/23 and 2025/26, Alberta’s operating expenses are projected to climb by more than $10.2 billion, a cumulative increase of nearly 19 per cent over three years.
This means Alberta would need oil prices to hit US$74.00 per barrel in 2025/26, US$76.35 in 2026/27 and US$77.50 in 2027/28 just to balance the books. That threshold is likely to rise as the province relies more on oil sands revenue, which mostly comes from projects that pay higher royalties only after companies have recovered their upfront development and operating costs, even as spending continues to grow. Back in 2023/24, a US$1.00 drop in oil prices over the course of a fiscal year meant about $630 million less for Alberta’s government. By 2025/26, that number rises to $750 million. By the end of this decade, a US$1.00 drop could mean as much as $1 billion in lost revenue for the province.
The fact that Alberta may need to make big changes
just to balance the books over the next three years shows how deeply it now depends on volatile oil revenues. No wonder the premier has asked the minister of energy and minerals to develop a plan to hit six million barrels of daily production by 2030 and eight million by 2035. But those targets are far above what most industry experts think is realistic, given current conditions in global energy markets. Pretending that Alberta can keep growing long-term spending in areas like health care, education and social services using unpredictable oil income is a recipe for trouble.
Premier Danielle Smith’s new mandate letter to the president of Treasury Board and minister of finance repeats two short-term goals: grow the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund (AHSTF) to at least $35 billion by 2027 and keep Alberta’s net debt-to-GDP ratio the lowest in Canada.
But based on reasonable forecasts and expected investment returns, it looks like the province will fall about $1.3 billion short of its AHSTF target by March 31, 2027. A nine per cent debt-to-GDP ratio may sound impressive, but Alberta could still add $28 billion in new debt and remain the lowest in Canada. That’s hardly a model of discipline. The government should consider putting a firm limit in law, capping net debt at no more than 15 per cent of GDP to help keep future budgets under control.
Beyond how Alberta compares to other provinces, the real issue is what that debt means for the people living here.
A growing debt burden means more public dollars spent on interest payments instead of services. It limits the province’s flexibility to respond to downturns or invest in future growth. And it passes growing financial risk to future governments and
from the pages of the vegreville observer Compiled by dan beaudette
Shed Dealing with
Sometime between our Men’s Shed session on Tuesday, September 16 (which ended at 8pm) and 10am Saturday, September 20, the Vegreville Men’s Shed facility was broken into. How the thief/ thieves gained access is unknown. However they managed to force the locked door into the Men’s Shed storage room and they stole tools worth over $3,000 in replacement value plus an additional $2,000 worth of items belonging to another party.
On September 28, a man approached me to report that he and his wife saw a Ridgid saw table lying in the long grass along the river bank not far from our shed location, while they were walking their dogs. We recovered the table which was missing the quick release clamps, the plywood used to mount our 12” compound mitre saw to the table along with the saw itself. Our Men’s Shed was very appreciative of his information.
(News Advertiser/File Photo)
In addition to the pictured tools, we had quite a few tools which had been recently gifted to our Men’s Shed by two local women who were moving and no longer had any use for them. Those tools were in pristine condition and some had not even been used.
Since then our Shed has repaired damages to our door, installed a surveillance camera and have tried to recover and started the daunting task of making ourselves whole again. Most of our tools were purchased locally at Rona or at Home Hardware.
If anybody has tools similar to those stolen and has no further use, please keep our Men’s Shed in mind as donations of tools are always welcome
Steve Kereliuk Continues to Have Fun
Tyler sees a partner for business growth.
This is Tyler, a farmer and Ag company owner. Last year, he got $2298 in profit shares, which he used to plant pine trees on his family farm near Pincher Creek. A few years ago, he approached Vision for business financing and found a partner who believed in his plans for growth. He’s done just that, every year since. Now, if only those trees would grow as well.
Real people. Real results.
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Steve Kereliuk celebrated his 95th birthday with a friendly game of snooker with Murray Neilson at the Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville on October 15. Murray felt honoured to be able to do so because Steve is 95 years old and one of the better players in town.
Steve continues to live in Vegreville. He credited reaching 95 to not smoking, no drinking, good food, and nice friends.
Steve said this will be his last game. He began to play pool at 16 years of age. “It was illegal for me to go to the pool hall because I had to be 18 to be there, but I managed to sneak in.
Born on October 15, 1930, on a farm, seven miles northeast of Hairy Hill, Steve . and his family lived there until he was in Grade two. He started school in Grade One in Shalka, but around that time, their barn burned on the farm. Instead of rebuilding the barn, his father decided to build a house in Hairy Hill, where Steve attended school until he graduated from Grade 12. In 1958, Steve bought property in Vegreville, built Steven’s Drive In, and ran the business for 11 years. He owned other businesses and also obtained an insurance and real estate license.
L-R: Steve Kereliuk and Murray Neilson. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Innisfree-Minburn 4H Club
Looking
Forward to a Great Year
Wind up gathering
(Innisfree-Minburn 4H Club/Submitted Photo)
Hi, I’m Brock Jackson and I’m the club reporter for the Innisfree-Minburn 4H club this year.
We ended our year with an awards potluck and baseball game in June, it was fun! We had our first meeting on October 6 in Innisfree. This year we have 23 members in our club. Our club executive this year is: President - Rylan Jackson, Vice President- Peyton Hess, Secretary - Ava Nott, Treasurer - Callie Sen, HistorianKatie Anderson, ParliamentarianMason McLaughlin, and District RepsAustin Garnier and Cole Arnold. We will meet every month. This meeting we went
over our budget, and plans for the year. We will weigh in our projects on November 10 at Harder’s Farm. We will also be doing our tire and battery round up to recycle in November and our Achievement Day will be May 27, 2026 in Minburn. We are ready for a great year ahead!
Our General Leader is Blair Jackson this year. If you have questions about our club you can call any member or our General Leader at 780-853-0069 or see our Facebook page to keep up to date on what we’re up to this year.
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GMC 5500 S/A Grain Truck w/ V8 Gas Engine, 5&2 Trans & 14' Steel Box
Halloween is such a wonderful and memorable time for youngsters. That is why it is crucial to ensure everyone comes back safely.
Alberta Health Services advises against crossing the street in the middle of the road and instead to use marked crosswalks.
Do not go trick-or-treating in houses without their lights on.
Never accept rides from strangers, or go into homes
alone if you don’t know someone, or if something doesn’t feel right.
Let your parents know the route you will be taking and call them on your cellphone if you are going to be late.
An adult should always accompany young children, and older children should travel in groups.
Tell kids not to eat any treats until you inspect them. Costumes should be noticeable. It is a good idea to add reflective tape to them.
Bring a flashlight, if possible, or teach kids to use theirs on the plane.
Find 10 Differences
Buy costumes made from flame-resistant materials. Additionally, sticks, rods, or wands should not have sharp edges.
Ensure that costumes do not restrict visibility and are not a tripping hazard.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police cites for homeowners to keep paths free of obstacles.
Pets should be kept indoors to protect them from dangers and help kids stay safe from bites from animals that might feel scared and overwhelmed.
Use safety glow sticks instead of candles.
Drivers should slow down and watch out for youngsters.
How to Decorate Your Pumpkin for a Delicious Post-Halloween Treat
Five ideas to explore
Have you purchased a pumpkin to display on your doorstep and welcome trick-or-treaters on October 31? If you dislike waste, you can decorate that big orange fruit in a way that allows you to turn it into a tasty dish after the Halloween festivities. Here are five creative ideas to give your pumpkin some personality.
1. Light it up. You can easily find thin LED string lights at your local home decor store. Wrap them around your pumpkin to make it the star of your Halloween night
2. Turn it into a mummy. Wrap your pumpkin in strips of fabric, like old sheets cut into strips or firstaid gauze. Then, create eyes using buttons, permanent markers, cardboard or googly eyes to bring your mummy to life.
3. Dress it up. Give your pumpkin a fun costume. Adorn it with a wig, a moustache, glasses, a mask, a cape or a hat. The possibilities are endless.
PUMPKIN AND MUSHROOM GNOCCHI
4. Add decorations. Use adhesive tape or stickers to attach all sorts of decorations—spiders, for example—to your pumpkin without causing any damage.
5. Turn it into a work of art. Grab some nontoxic water-based paint and unleash your creativity. Add abstract shapes and vibrant colours or draw an original face on your pumpkin. Let your imagination run wild!
As you can see, you can easily decorate your pumpkin and still enjoy it as a tasty treat afterward. What will you create? Pie, muffins or soup? The choice is yours!
Review your trick-or-treating route with Mom and Dad before you leave, and come back
Wear a bright costume and reflective tape so that people can see you in the dark.
Bring a flashlight so you can see and be seen at night.
Make sure your costume is properly hemmed, and choose face paint instead of a mask.
Healthy and Happy Halloween Party
Similar to what our mothers told us, it is best to serve healthy and nutritious food first, and decorate it imaginatively for a Halloween party.
Then bring out the treats such as salted pumpkin and sunflower seeds, fruit snacks, protein bars, candies with low sugar content, and more. Avoid nuts or other foods to which children are commonly allergic.
Make smoothies combining vanilla yogurt, canned pumpkin, and mixed with spices and brown sugar.
Pumpkin pie dip can also be created with whipped cream, cream cheese, canned pumpkin, spices, and/or sugar.
Play games such as whoever tells the scariest story wins a prize.
Have open-ended craft projects, where the most original one wins.
Watch a family-friendly spooky movie.
Decorate pumpkin cookies.
Dance to the Monster Mash.
Play Pin the Spider on the Web.
on sidewalks when possible, and always look both directions before crossing the street.
Skip the houses that are poorly lit, and never go into a stranger’s home.
Stick to one side of the street at a time, and always cross at crosswalks, street corners or intersections.
Don’t eat any candy until it’s been inspected by your parents.
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Afternoon of Local Entertainment
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
People were treated to a variety of genres of delightful performances from local musicians and a storyteller at the first Open Mic event for the season, hosted by the Senior Citizens Sunshine Club of Vegreville on October 19.
Justin Hambidge’s deep and rich voice opened with singing a few pop songs, while going on to experiment with other tunes.
Tony Mapa’s sang and played the keyboard to pleasant pieces that enticed a few people to get up and dance.
Randy Kereliuk performed a few
catchy, high-energy pieces.
Jean Hughston’s full and lively voice carried folk and country/western songs well through familiar old-time tunes, a few unique pieces, and even a wellknown gospel song.
Robert Hughes accompanied many of these singers on drums.
After this, Carey Marshall, who lived in the Arctic for 50 years, and now resides in Two Hills told humourous true stories from his life, some of which were printed in magazines.
Each of these performances was wellreceived by the audience.
Sunshine Club President Carlene
Wheeler said their open mic went well. “It’s important for the seniors at the club because it gets people out of their homes, and it’s a great place to socialize.”
Volunteer Loretta Neubuhr really likes that these Open Mics are starting up again because it gets people, especially seniors, out and enjoying events, which they sometimes do not go out to in the later fall and winter. “This gives them a warm place to come to, and go to with their children, and have a good time. I wish it were all year long. It might even capture the interest of tourists who come to town.”
Randy Kereliuk accompanied by Robert Hughes on drums. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Dancing to the tunes.
(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
The pleasant voice of Jean Hughston, accompanied by Loretta Neubuhr on guitar. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Dianne Palovick’s
Interesting Life Leads to Writing Novels
A Time for Celebration
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
People were treated to a book reading and signing of Author Dianne (Taylor) Palovick’s newest novel, Old Wounds, as well as information on how to get started writing at Vegreville Centennial Library on October 17.
Dianne grew up in Prince Edward Island and lived in Halifax when she was working as a school teacher. She now resides in Alberta, in Fort Saskatchewan.
Most of Dianne’s working life was spent as a Manager and Director of the Robin Hood Association in Alberta for children and adults with developmental disabilities.
Dianne always wanted to write books because her life started in an orphanage, where she was later adopted as a baby by a wonderful couple.
Dianne finally decided to take on writing books after she retired because if a person always talks about doing something, they should do it. So, she took a creative writing course and wrote three novels afterwards.
All of Dianne’s books are self-published and are Canadian Historical Fiction.
Dianne wrote Monday till Friday faithfully every week. She advised if you want to write, you have to figure out what part of the day you are most energized. Once she was finished writing, she would sit down and think about what was going to happen in the next chapter, and would write what she calls breadcrumbs (little things that would meaningfully help her kick off in the early morning). It could be a character’s description, or what is going to happen next.
Other suggestions she gave aspiring writers were to research how writers who are now deceased wrote, make your characters carry the story, create very detailed characters, and identify with people you know.
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
Around 50 people gathered to celebrate the official grand opening of the new gazebo at Wapasu Conservancy Recreation Park on Oct. 15.
Wapasu Committee Chair Coun. Tara Kuzio did the honour of cutting the ribbon with fellow Councillors Eric Anderson and Clifford Wowdzia and Reeve Roger Konieczny.
“Thank you all for coming out today to help us celebrate and unveil our new gazebo and picnic tables at beautiful Wapasu Conservancy Park. When our cook shack was lost to fire, it was a tough moment, but our council knew we had to rebuild for our community and we built back better than ever.
I want to thank County of Minburn administration for organizing today’s gathering and for all the work they do behind the scenes to keep this park so well cared for; and a shout out to Ron Cependa for all his care and attention to the park.
Over the years we’ve made great improvements, from a new playground, building updates, shower, picnic areas, new fencing and our beautiful walking trails. It’s wonderful to see families bringing their kids to play, enjoy the lake, and make memories right here in our own backyard.
Wapasu really is a hidden gem in the County of Minburn, and it’s something we can all be proud of. Thank you again for being here to celebrate, and please take some time to relax, visit, and enjoy this beautiful spot we’re so lucky to have.”
Norm De Wet, Director of Operations for the County of Minburn, said, “The event celebrated the new gazebo as well as the ongoing improvements at Wapasu Conservancy Park and the collective effort to enhance this well-loved day-use destination for the community.”
He noted, “Council and the Wapasu Committee remain committed to maintaining the park to a high standard so that it continues to be a favourite destination for residents and visitors alike.”
Dianne discussing her latest book. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Dianne’s novels.
(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
Tributes
In loving memory
Lloyd Leon Dziwenka
July 20, 1950-October 25, 2024
If I could write a story, it would be the greatest ever told of a kind and loving husband, father and grandfather who had a heart of gold.
We could write a million pages, but there’s one thing we would say: just how much we love you and miss you every single day. We miss the sound of your voice, your laughter, the wisdom in your advice, the stories of your presence.
I miss being your wife.
I know, when I struggle with decisions, you will send down the answers because you’ll always be my husband. We miss you just as much today as the day we lost you. We just miss you! Forever in our hearts, Love you! Brenda and family
taxpayers.
Albertans have seen this movie before. In the 1980s and 1990s, a collapse in oil prices left the province scrambling to close budget gaps through painful cuts. Even in the more recent downturns of 2008 and 2015, oil price shocks triggered a wave of fiscal instability, job losses and spending freezes. Without reform, history will repeat itself again.
I’ve laid out the key challenges behind Alberta’s financial bind and offered a few ways forward. The first step is transparency. The Smith government should give Albertans a full financial update by the end of November 2025 and restore the legal requirement for a mid-year fiscal and economic report, with detailed projections for the next two years.
Without change, Alberta risks repeating the same boom-and-bust cycles that have hurt its finances in the past where even small dips in oil prices force deep cuts or big borrowing.
Lennie Kaplan is a former senior manager in the fiscal and economic policy division of Alberta’s Ministry of Treasury Board and Finance, where, among other duties, he examined best practices in fiscal frameworks, program reviews and savings strategies for non-renewable resource revenues. In 2012, he won a Corporate Values Award in TB&F for his work on Alberta’s fiscal framework review. In 2019, Mr. Kaplan served as executive director to the MacKinnon Panel on Alberta’s finances—a governmentappointed panel tasked with reviewing Alberta’s spending and recommending reforms.
The views, opinions, and positions expressed by our columnists and contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of our publication.
OBITUARY
ROSYPAL, Eveline Louise
May 1, 1948 – October 12, 2025
On Sunday, October 12, 2025, Eveline Louise Rosypal of Mundare, Alberta passed away at the age of 77 years.
Eveline is survived by her daughter Gail (Jorgen); daughter-in-law Karen; grandchildren Denise (Aaron), Christina (Ben), Michael (Lyndsay), Matthew (Alexa); great-grandchildren Bentley and Liam; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. She was predeceased by the love of her life, her husband Frank; son Gordon; two brothers Armand and Dennis; and one sister Leona.
Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the “Haying in the 30’s Cancer Support society.”
To send condolences please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD.
Vegreville 780-603-5800
The Results are In -
results of Monday’s Municipal Election.
Town of Vegreville
Mayor Tim MacPhee *acclaimed Councilor Votes
Taneen Rudyk – 927 votes *elected
Justin Curtis – 855 votes *elected
Lisa Gegolick – 841 votes *elected
Marielle Brodziak – 836 votes *elected
Jerrold Lemko – 814 votes *elected
Colby Warawa 740 votes *elected
Margaret Michaelchuk – 572 votes
Timothy Kucherawy – 464 votes
Dave Berry – 457 votes
Town of Mundare
Mayoral Votes
Rick Patrie – 132 votes
William (Bill) Rankin – 72 votes
Kent Santo – 59 votes
Councilor Votes
Geoffrey Hughes – 150 votes *elected
Irene Talaga – 136 votes *elected
Cheryl Calinoiu – 128 votes *elected
Jennifer Johner – 128 *elected
Glen Rozumniak – 123 votes
Danika Brison – 116 votes
Dana Rankin – 105 votes
Village of Mannville
Reid Roland - 155 votes *elected
Jocelyne Lanovaz – 131 votes *elected
Gary Bauer – 112 votes *elected
Elizabeth (Eli) Myhovich - 104 votes *elected
Douglas Gilbert – 89 votes *elected
Shantell Bielesch – 81 votes
Danny Lyster – 71 votes
Rex Smith – 70 votes
Village of Innisfree
Kristina Brummer – 50 votes *elected
Evan Raycraft – 47 votes *elected
Mavis Hyndman – 40 votes *elected
Paul Chesterton – 39 votes
Bobbie Bouchier – 18 votes
Karen Theroux – 14 votes
Jennifer Johnson – 11 votes
Village of Chipman
Shana McIntyre – 68 votes
Evelyn McNaughton – 51 votes
Morris Langevin – 49 votes
Tammie Lemky – 42 votes
OBITUARY
HRYCIW, Victor
The family of Victor Hyrciw is saddened to announce his passing on October 17, at the age of 65 years.
Victor will be remembered lovingly by his parents, Nestor and Myrtle; his sisters, Kim, Brenda (Ricks), and Jacki (Bernie); his nieces, nephews and great-nephews. Victor was predeceased by his grandparents, Peter and Helen Hyrciw, Russell and Laura Hill; and brother-inlaw, Calvin Klepachek.
A private service will be held with immediate family.
A special thank you to the caregivers and medical staff who provided compassion and support to Victor, throughout his years.
Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com.
Park Memorial Smoky Lake 780-656-3839
Family-Owned Funeral Home
And Crematorium
from
Jennifer Ausman – 36 votes
Joseph Gallant – 32 votes
Town of Lamont Mayoral Votes
Jody Foulds 227 votes *elected
Paul Desrosiers – 62 votes Councilor Votes
Linda Sieker – 229 votes *elected
Colleen Holowaychuk – 214 *elected
Lynn Huxley – 203 votes *elected
Chris Mintenko – 178 votes *elected
Al Harvey 172 votes *elected
Perry Koroluk – 170 votes *elected
Heather Rideout – 114 votes
Village of Andrew Mayoral Votes
Bill Romaniuk – 121 votes *elected
Chris Lupul – 46 votes Councilor Votes
Osama Hamed – 101 votes *elected
Merwin Haight – 88 votes *elected
Kyle Stotyn – 78 votes *elected
Melissa Dyck – 74 votes *elected
Johannus Van Vyfeyken – 65 votes
Stacey Bodnarek – 66 votes
Carol Dubitz – 58 votes
James Rustand – 27 votes
Heather Pauls – 18 votes
Town of Smoky Lake Mayoral Votes
Marianne Prockiw-Zarusky – 255 votes *elected
David Franchuk – 115 votes
Amy Cherniwchan – 43 votes Councilor Votes
Nestor Rosichuk – 282 votes *elected
Bruce Chern – 226 votes *elected
Tegan Scharff – 195 votes *elected
Dan Kotylak – 174 votes *elected
John Cherniwchan – 163 votes
Evelynne Kobes – 147 votes
Kristin Magnusson – 146 votes
Town of Two Hills
Mayor Michael Tarkowski *acclaimed Councilor Votes
Cody Dyck – 265 votes *elected
Marvin Patel – 236 votes *elected
OBITUARY
VINET, Violetta Flora June 16, 1933 – October 11, 2025
With deep love and gentle peace, Violetta “Etta” Flora Mary Vinet passed away on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at the age of 92 years, surrounded by her devoted family- her “army of angels” – and their endless love.
Etta’s life was a true testament to strength, compassion, and unwavering faith in God. She poured love into her family and friends, creating a home that welcomed all with laughter, wisdom, and grace. A generous host to the very end, she infused joy into every gathering- festive meals featuring her treasured recipes, lively family get togethers, spirited card games, and heartfelt conversations over a cup of tea or a glass of wine. Her days were marked by humility and hard work, brightened by quick wit and sparkling humour. In every memory she leaves, her legacy of resilience and love will continue to shine.
Etta is survived and dearly cherished by her children Darryl (Bert) Vinet, Neil (Dianne) Vinet, Glen (Odia) Vinet, and Lisa (Larry) Myroon; daughter-in-law Pat Vinet; grandchildren Trevor (Olivia), Travis (Nikki), Chelsea (Ryan), Trina, J.J. (Kim), Meaghan (Mosin), Erin (Drae), Malcolm (Meriska), Kaitlin (Darren), Courtney (Nicole), Jabulani, Tyler, and Jessica (Mitchell); and great-grandchildren Vienna, Ella, Zoey, Ivy, Noah, Amelie, Ayla, Naim, Remi, and Henry. She will also be fondly remembered by her brother Leo Laventure; sister-in-law Grace Willis; brother-in-law Fred Gau; and many nieces, nephews and friends blessed by her presence.
She now joins in eternal rest her beloved husband, Mac; son Alan; grandson Graden; and granddaughter Kristie; along with her parents Emil and Monette Laventure; brothers Johnny, Arthur and Victor Laventure; and sister Margaret Bolan. Etta’s family and friends will carry forward her lessons of faith, kindness, and joyful resilience. Her light will live on in every fond memory shared, every tourtiere and carrot loaf prepared, every glass of wine raised in remembrance, and every card game played in her honour.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. at the St. Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church in Vegreville, Alberta with Fr. Chad Miciak officiating. Inurnment to take place in the Riverside Cemetery Columbarium at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Etta’s name can be made to the “Palliative Care Unit” at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Vegreville through the Akasu Palliative Care Society online via Benevity or CanadaHelps or the “St. Mary’s Hospital” in Camrose via the Hospice Society of Camrose and District by mailing a cheque to Box 1891, Camrose, Alberta., T4V 1X8, dropping it off at their office at 5415-49 Ave, or donating online through CanandaHelps or the ATB website.
To send condolences please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, Alberta 780-603-5800
BERESKA, Tom
It is with heavy hearts and loving remembrance, the family of Tom announce his passing on October 18, 2025 at the age of 83 years.
Tom is survived by his wife, Eileen, of 51 years; son, Donald; daughter, Debra (Graham Barsi); and his wonderful grandson, Austin Barsi. Tom also leaves his sister, Natalia Labatiuk; brother, Harold (Gloria); brother-in-law, Edd Semeniuk; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Cremation has taken place in the Park Memorial Crematorium.
Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com
Park Memorial
Vegreville 780-632-2000 Family-Owned Funeral Home And Crematorium
Boom and Bust - CONTINUED from PAGE 6
CONTINUED
Front PAGE
Abram Hiebert – 224 votes *elected
Henry Wall – 215 votes *elected
Elaine Sorochan – 152 votes
Arnold Romaniuk – 101 votes
Sonny Rajoo – 54 votes
Willie Babiuk – 51 votes
Village of Myrnam
Rick Sadowsky - 101 votes
Simon Patterson – 88 votes
Paul Myshaniuk – 68 votes
Brad Straty – 41 votes
Leo Tobin – 36 votes
Kurt Ewanec – 27
Town of Viking Councilor Votes
Paul King – 293 votes *elected
Judy Acres – 253 votes *elected
Cole Harasyn-O’Neill – 240 votes *elected
Timothy Goodison – 233 votes *elected
James Buttner – 175 votes *elected
Dana Ewashko – 138 votes
Cindy Lefsrud – 135 votes
Village of Ryley Councilor Votes
Dale Roth – 90 votes *elected
Cyndy Heslin – 67 votes *elected
Mickey Wilson – 65 votes *elected
Stephanie Dennis – 60 votes *elected
Stephanie Jackel – 55 votes *elected
Kimberly Murphy – 46 votes
Village of Holden
Councilor Votes
Tyler Beckett – 47 votes *elected
Tammy Lynn Hall – 40 votes *elected
Alan Ramshaw – 39 votes *elected
Carl Marsh – 33 votes *elected
Shawn Cole – 30 votes *elected
Mark Giebelhaus – 28 votes
Graeme Duckworth – 27 votes
John Markel – 13 votes
Town of Tofield
Mayoral Votes
Adam Hall – 464 votes *elected
Darren Erickson – 211 votes Councilor Votes
Brenda Chehade – 337 votes *elected
Dustin Terpstra – 309 votes *elected
Jennifer Durrant – 307 votes *elected
Elaine Taylor – 280 votes *elected
Samantha Giegold – 260 votes
Harold Conquest – 251 votes
Clayton Roe – 233 votes
Larry Tiedemann – 229 votes
County of Two Hills
Division 1
Don Gulayec – 145 votes
Michael Bykewich – 35 votes
Kyle Tarkowski – 32 votes
Division 2 – Murray Phillips *acclaimed
Division 3
Terry Boettcher – 131 votes
Jason Bast – 81 votes
Ruven Rajoo – 47 votes
Division 4
Neal Lapaschuk – 186 votes
Sebastien Dutrisac – 72 votes
Division 5
Elroy Yakemchuk – 125 votes
Rebekah Zukiwski – 34 votes
County of Minburn
Div. 1 – Joey Nafziger *acclaimed
Div. 2
Ray Nedzielski – 94 votes
Eric Anderson – 73 votes
Div. 3 – Roger Konieczny *acclaimed
Div. 4
Allen McCutcheon – 99 votes
Emil Dmytriw – 45 votes
Div. 5 – Tara Kuzio *acclaimed
Div. 6
Carl Ogrodnick – 82 votes
Joanne Smook Brown – 76 votes
Elwin Dzwinka – 49 votes
Smoky Lake County
Division 1
Ryan Barker – 63 votes
Tamara Flondra – 58 votes
Dan Gawalko – 44 votes
Division 2
David Kully – 118 votes
Linda Fenerty – 81 votes
Division 3
Craig Lukinuk – 105 votes
Dominique Cere – 81 votes
Leon Boychuk-Hunter – 52 votes
Galia Alexander – 4 votes
Division 4
Lorne Halisky – 116 votes
Terry Makowichuk – 104 votes
Division 5
Jered Serben – 146 votes
Randy Orichowski – 78 votes
Lamont County
Division 1
Gerald Thorowsky – 119 votes
Daniel Warawa – 91 votes
Division 2 – Aaron Wick *acclaimed
Division 3
John Uganecz – 166 votes
Dave Diduck – 91 votes
Division 4
Roy Anaka – 92 votes
Tammy Pickett – 57 votes
Brent Matiaszow – 44 votes
Division 5
Neil Woitas – 215 votes
Natasha Phair – 33 votes
Beaver County
Division 1
Kevin Smook 169 votes
Nora Abercrombie – 85 votes
Division 2 – Lionel Williams *acclaimed
Division 3
Gene Hrabec – 163
Rick Ells – 59 votes
Division 4
Shawn O’Shea – 127 votes
Barry Bruce – 85 votes
Ava Fried 16
Division 5
Dale Peterson – 165 votes
Dianne Weaver – 88 votes
Marshall Tymofichuk – 65 votes
KFRN Helps Kids’ Overall Development
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
Twenty-five children and 15 caregivers seemed to be overjoyed to participate in the Stay and Play session on October 17 at Kalyna Family Resource NetworkVegreville and Area.
Hub Facilitator Yuliia Kalutska said these free weekly gatherings help young children build early social, emotional, and physical skills through play, while parents and caregivers connect and share ideas. In rural communities, programs like these are essential. KFRN offers both universal programs, open to all families, and targeted supports for those needing extra help. Without these services, many parents would have to travel far—or go without support entirely.
“The Stay and Play program also helps families discover what other programs and resources are available nearby. Over time, it builds what we call “natural
Crazy Laws
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supports”—friendships, community ties, and trusted connections that make parenting easier and families stronger,” Kalutska added.
Spokes Programmer Cheryl Sorensen mentioned that the theme for the session was Changing Leaves. They decided to on this to get the little ones to learn more about fall, and all the different things that happen to nature in this season. There was a colouring activity set up. “This helps kids understand the seasons, and was a way to welcome the fall before winter gets here.”
Learning through play. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos)
Michelle Pinon News Advertiser
A contingent of teachers, students and community members walked together in solidarity on Oct. 15 in Vegreville.
The first to arrive at the designated meeting place outside the Vegreville Centennial Library were two teachers from Sherwood Park. Jonathon Thomas and Jeremy Cooper said they wanted to support their colleagues and shared some of their thoughts on the teachers’ strike and reasons behind it.
“Over the last decade or so we’ve seen a continual decline in the conditions in the classrooms in terms of how difficult they are to manage, and how complex they are, the resources that have been allocated to support students and their needs. And so, as our society gets more complex, as our population grows, as it becomes more diverse, we need to make sure that our public education system is funded to the level that is equal to support and manage that. So, that’s what it’s really all about. Making sure conditions are in place to make sure that kids get the education that they deserve,” stated Thomas.
Thomas elaborated on the complex needs, saying, “We’ve seen a significant number of children come into our classrooms that are English language learners with various learning difficulties, increased rates of students with autism, and these are all things teachers are trained to manage and want to help students with who are in these situations, but if there are too many, and there aren’t enough supports to work with each of these students and give them the time they deserve, those students are essentially going to be left behind simply because the teacher doesn’t have enough hours in the day to actually provide those kinds of supports.”
Cooper said, “The whole complexity, happens to all of the students and families in the division. So, I see a lot of mental health issues as well. Again, schools are there to support those needs, but it’s just the numbers. So, having school counsellors, having teachers to support kids, and they’re trained and ready to do that, we just see the numbers and that has made it difficult to manage.”
St. Martin’s Catholic School Principal Darby Murphy offered his own insights into the situation. “I think the biggest reason for our classrooms, particularly here in Vegreville is the classroom complexity. I’ve been teaching now for about 10 or 11 years, and to see that change so
Solidarity
drastically, for a variety of different reasons; but to see some of our teachers have to handle students with a variety of needs.
For example, in a Grade 6 classroom there are kids that have a variety of needs from kids who are gifted and ahead of the curve to kids who are at maybe a Grade 1, Grade 2 reading level. For one teacher to handle 25-30 kids of that magnitude. As a Principal, even having to cover a class you get to see those kids in a 40-minute period for maybe a minute. It’s so difficult when you know they have those extra needs that are not being met. That’s probably the biggest thing here.
The other thing, too, is for people to realize is that the offer that has happened from the government, in the rural community we will not see an extra teacher, most of those will go to the higher density areas, which makes sense to a certain degree, but that’s a big reason why.”
For me, the main thing is that it is not about right now, it’s about the future of education. I’m seeing teacher coming into their career and burning out within four to five years and they are gone. Public education matters a lot.”
Allison Moroz has been teaching for around 14 years and currently teaches at Vegreville Composite High School. She has taught every grade, currently high school and junior high, but also special needs and options.
“We’re striking because of the complexity and the needs in the classroom. It’s not as much about the wage increase. Of course, we’d like to make sure we are being compensated for our work fairly, but it’s more about the fact that we are not get-
ting supported as far as resources.
Local 42 Registered Nurses of Alberta representative Katelyn Evans said, “We were almost going to go on strike ourselves, but we didn’t have to. We wanted to be here to support teachers because they deserve what they are asking for. We want to get class sizes capped, we want to see an increase amount of funding happen, and we want to see our government really care about education. That’s why we’re here, to stand with the teachers.”
Solidarity Walk through the downtown core of Vegreville Oct. 15. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)
Six Thousand Volunteers for Forever Canadian
Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent
There were plenty of drivers honking, waving, and cheering when the Unity Bus for the Alberta Forever Canada Petition Tour with Former Deputy Premier of Alberta Thomas Lukaszuk and canvassers was at the old Peavey Mart’s parking lot on October 15.
Lukaszuk spearheaded this initiative and stated that this petition started almost 90 days ago, around June 30. They will be traveling on a tour across Alberta.
He decided to start this petition because just before June 30, separatists were having town hall meetings, and they just unveiled their question of whether Alberta should become a separate country. He thought these guys would definitely ask for a referendum, and the Premier seemed to be very open towards their cause. Lakaszuk explained, “So, I thought there must be some provisions in the legislation for the Citizens’ Initiative Act that says there can be only one petition at a time, and once you
get a petition through and it is successful, then no one can file another one for a certain period of five years. So, I went to the Chief Electoral Office that morning and asked if the separatists had filed a petition yet. The commissioner’s staff told me they could not tell me, and the only way I could find out if I started my own petition, and if it was accepted, that meant they never filed one.
So, I filed one and it was approved. But I went by the old rules and was determined to get the 300,000 signatures.
Last count, we had 230,000 but only a portion of our signature collection is reported, so we will start the count of the collection on the 25th of October.
Students
Vegreville, Mundare, Two Hills, and Andrew
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.
Once we get 300,000 signatures, this will be the biggest petition in the history of Canada. We have 6,000 volunteers.”
Lukaszuk went on to express that if we separate from Canada, Alberta would be a landlocked country. We would have no access to water with no ocean or sea. How would farmers be exporting their goods, such as beef and grain, if we had no access to ports and ships? What rail lines would we be using?”
Vegreville resident Ray Welsh, who was canvassing shared it is critical that we state we are Canadian first, and Albertans second, as he is concerned about the direction that the province is going. It seems to be mirroring what is going on in the United States.
“This is a major concern. I am looking at health care, education, and some of the bills of the legislation. I am worried about the agenda of our premier and the United Conservative Party government.”
A Vegreville resident’s Lisa Topilko has been canvassing for a while all over Vegreville because her friend, Renette Bertholet from Edmonton was working for this petition and Lisa wanted one in Vegreville. Lisa felt if Alberta were to separate, investors and Canadian businesses would pull out of Alberta because of the uncertainty of what might happen to them and that would be a terrible thing for our economy.
“The majority of people are really happy to see us and sign the petition, and there are some who are shocked that this question is even a thing.
My ancestors would be appalled that we are even considering this in Alberta,” Lisa added.
Saddle Lake RCMP Respond to Report of Male Shot, one Arrested
RCMP Submitted
Ratepayers are reminded that property taxes must be paid in full by October 31, 2025. Any outstanding amounts not paid by this date will be assessed a penalty of 12% on November 1, 2025.
Ratepayers are reminded that an additional penalty of 5% will be charged on February 1, 2026 on all taxes remaining unpaid after January 31, 2026.
Payments can be made via online banking, Interac E-Transfer sent to payments@minburncounty.ab.ca, debit/credit card via the County website, or in person at our Administration Office at 4909-50 Street, Vegreville, Alberta. To ensure accurate processing of your payment, please ensure to reference the tax roll number(s) you are paying.
Important Property Tax Payment Reminder
Due to the recently announced Canada Post strike, we'd like to remind residents that property taxes are still due on October 31, 2025.
If you have already mailed a cheque, please take the following steps:
1. Call our office to confirm whether your payment has been received.
2. If we have not received your cheque, you will need to make your payment using an alternative method.
3. Once your mailed cheque arrives and provided the alternative payment has been made, we will safely destroy it to avoid duplicate payment.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and sincerely appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Numbers
On Oct. 8, 2025 shortly before 1:00 p.m., the Saddle Lake RCMP received a report of a male that had been shot in the neck. Police responded quickly and were able to arrest a suspect shortly after receiving the call.
In collaboration with multiple other units, a second suspect was taken into custody later in the afternoon. The second suspect has not been charged in relation to the incident.
The victim was taken to hospital, then airlifted to an Edmonton hospital where he is in stable condition.
Bailey Christopher Mason (28), a resident of Edmonton, Alta. has been charged with:
• aggravated assault
• discharge firearm with intent
• possession of weapon for dangerous purpose
• unauthorized possession of a firearm
• careless use of a firearm
• breaking and entering with intent –residence
• weapons possession contrary to order and fail to surrender authorization (x6)
• possession of a prohibited weapon when knowing possession unauthorized
Bailey Mason was held for a judicial hearing and was remanded into custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 15, 2025 at the Cold Lake Court of Justice.
Volunteers in front of the Unity Bus. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)
