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Teachers, Community Unite For Wellness Walk In Vermilion
On Tuesday, October 21, teachers from Park Plains East Local #31, currently facing a lockout, gathered with community members for a spirited Wellness Walk in Vermilion. Participants walked a two-block stretch along Main Street, spanning 50th Avenue between 49th and 51st Streets. The event was marked by solidarity, energy, and a shared commitment to public education. The Wellness Walks were inspired by the large rally held in Edmonton on October 5, along with similar events ac
Sonya Lee
Oct 27, 20252 min read


Vermilion Fire Department Recognizes Long-Serving Firefighters
The Vermilion Fire Department is proud to recognize and celebrate the exceptional dedication and service of its firefighters, who continue to play a vital role in protecting and supporting our rural communities. In a heartfelt ceremony on October 22, service awards were presented on behalf of the Town of Vermilion and the County of Vermilion River to acknowledge the years of sacrifice, bravery, and commitment shown by these local heroes. Each of these individuals has contribu
Sonya Lee
Oct 27, 20252 min read


A Day In The Field: Grazing, Grains & Growth
On October 15, a diverse group of 37 farmers, ranchers, and agricultural enthusiasts gathered for the second field day hosted at Will Groeneveld’s farm near Mannville. The event was designed to showcase how regenerative practices can benefit both land health and livestock productivity. Organized by Rural Routes to Climate Solutions in partnership with ALUS Canada and supported by Western Economic Development, the day began with a morning of presentations at the Mannville Golf
Sonya Lee
Oct 27, 20252 min read


Spreading Holiday Cheer: Shoppers’ Drug MartBrings Joy To Vermilion’s Seniors
The holiday season is all about giving, and this year, Shopper’s Drug Mart in Vermilion is making it easier than ever to share the spirit of the season with those who deserve it most, our seniors. Starting November 3, the store’s beloved Holiday Cheer Tree will go up, ready to brighten the holidays for local seniors and connect our community through kindness and care. If you’re a senior who could use a little extra cheer this season, Shopper’s Drug Mart wants to treat you! Si
Sonya Lee
Oct 27, 20252 min read


Lakeland College Hosts Fall Classic Rodeo
Photo Sonya Lee The Canadian Collegiate Rodeo Association (CCRA) brings together a passionate community of college and university students, along with their coaches, united by their love of rodeo. Dedicated to both education and sport, the association represents institutions across British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, forming seven competitive teams. Each season, these teams take turns hosting between eight and ten rodeos from September to April, culminating in the hi
Sonya Lee
Oct 21, 20252 min read


Future Firefighters Learn The Ropes At The Lakeland Emergency Training Centre
On October 15, the Lakeland Emergency Training Centre (ETC) transformed into a hands-on learning playground for the students of Vermilion Play Development. With flashing lights, firefighter gear, and high-energy learning, the firehouse tour was an unforgettable experience—filled with laughter, excitement, and life-saving lessons. From the moment they stepped through the doors, the children were captivated by Training Officer Don Keenan, whose enthusiasm and storytelling broug
Sonya Lee
Oct 20, 20252 min read


Buffalo Ridge Pony Club Riders Impress At National Quiz
This fall, three remarkable young members of the Buffalo Ridge Pony Club made their mark on the national stage, representing both their club and the Alberta North Region at the prestigious Canadian Pony Club National Quiz. Dolly Lehne, Emma Collins, and Jane Scansen qualified to compete at Nationals after earning top marks at the regional quiz earlier in 2025. Together, they brought knowledge, determination, and team spirit to one of Pony Club’s most challenging national comp
Sonya Lee
Oct 20, 20252 min read
Hazing Has No Place In Sports, Or Anywhere Else
The recent sanctions against Lakeland College’s men’s and women’s volleyball teams are more than just a disciplinary notice; they’re a wake-up call. The Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) confirmed that both teams participated in hazing activities between August 29 and September 1, culminating in a so-called ‘rookie party.” The result? The women’s team is suspended for its first eight matches, the men’s for the four, and Lakeland College has been fined $6,000. These

Lorna Hamilton
Oct 20, 20252 min read


Vermilion’s Farmer’s Market: A little Gem
Bread & Flower by Jenny. Photo Bread & Flower by Jenny Every Tuesday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Elk’s Hall at 5029 49 Avenue in Vermilion transforms into a lively gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Running weekly until December, the Vermilion Farmer’s Market is a true community staple. A place where neighbors connect, local talent shines, and quality goods are just a short walk or drive away. The market features a changing lineup of vendors, so no two weeks are
Sonya Lee
Oct 13, 20252 min read


The Lodge Hosts Municipal Candidates Meet And Greet
On October 10, the Vermilion and District Housing Foundation hosted a Councillor and Mayoral Candidates Meet and Greet. The event provided residents with an opportunity to meet the individuals running in the upcoming municipal election and to ask questions about the issues that matter most to them. Hospitality Supervisor for the Foundation, Tiana Kowalchuk, welcomed everyone and opened the evening by inviting each attending candidate to introduce themselves and share a bit ab

Lorna Hamilton
Oct 13, 20251 min read


Town Of Vermilion Electorate Hears From Candidates
Back row, from left, Councillor Candidates Paul Conlon, Kirby Whitlock, Bruce MacDuff, and Kevin Martin. Front row, from left Richard Lavoie, Sherry Martin, Erwin Warkentin, and Darla Yonkman. Photos Sonya Lee From left, Mayoral Candidates Robert Snow, Robert Pulyk, and Richard Yaceyko. On Wednesday Oct 8, community members packed the Lakeland College Alumni Theatre for an electoral forum organized by the Vermilion & District Chamber of Commerce. The event, streamed on YouTub
Sonya Lee
Oct 13, 20252 min read


Vermilion Allied Arts To Kick Off 50th Season With The Jake Mathews Trio
Jake Mathews The Vermilion Allied Arts Council is gearing up to open its milestone 50th season with an unforgettable evening of live music featuring the Jake Mathews Trio. The performance will take place on Saturday, October 18 at 7:30 p.m. at the Alumni Theatre on the Lakeland College campus in Vermilion. Tickets for the show are $35 and are expected to sell quickly. Canadian country artist Jake Mathews has built an impressive career, earning multiple Canadian Country Music

Lorna Hamilton
Oct 13, 20252 min read


VIBE Limo Rolls Into Vermilion
From left, Vermilion Chamber Executive Director Aiyana Thompson, Vibe Limo owners Serena Davidson and Nate Habte, and Town of Vermilion Director of Corporate Services- Marilyn Lavoy Photo Sonya Lee Vermilion couple Nate Habte and Serena Davidson, celebrated an exciting new chapter on October 9 as they officially launched their new, VIBE Limo. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the Vermilion Town Hall council chambers, where they were joined by Town Director of Corporat

Lorna Hamilton
Oct 13, 20251 min read


Vermilion Credit Union Staff Rally Behind Local Food Banks For Thanksgiving
For the third consecutive year, the team at Vermilion Credit Union has come together in the spirit of giving to support local food banks ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. What began as a small initiative has grown into a powerful annual tradition, driven by a deep commitment to community and a desire to ensure that no table goes empty during the season of gratitude. The initiative, supported wholeheartedly by staff, members, and the wider community, has once again shown how
Sonya Lee
Oct 13, 20251 min read


Vermilion Credit Union Invests In Young Readers With Literacy Donation
This year, Vermilion Credit Union has made a generous contribution of $7,404 to support literacy programs at Mannville School, St. Jerome’s School, and Vermilion Elementary School. The donation reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to education and its belief in the power of reading to transform young minds. The funding is being used to enhance school literacy initiatives, reward enthusiastic readers, and provide additional resources for teachers striving to cultivat
Sonya Lee
Oct 13, 20251 min read


Former Mayor Bruce MacDuff Announces Candidacy For Vermilion Town Council
Bruce MacDuff. Photo submitted The Town of Vermilion’s municipal election will take place on October 20, and a familiar name has entered the race. Former Mayor Bruce MacDuff has announced his candidacy for town councillor, citing strong encouragement from residents and a desire to ensure Vermilion’s future growth and prosperity. “I had several requests from residents to run for council,” said MacDuff. “Waiting for change is not enough—it is better to be part of the solution.

Lorna Hamilton
Oct 6, 20253 min read


Richard Yaceyko Announces Bid For Mayor Of Vermilion
Richard Yaceyko. Photo Lorna Hamilton With the upcoming municipal election set for October 20, longtime Vermilion resident and former councillor Richard Yaceyko has officially entered the race for Mayor. Yaceyko, who previously served 17 years on Vermilion Town Council, says his experience and dedication to the community make him well-prepared for this next step. “Being semi-retired, I feel I have the experience and time required to serve the Town as Mayor,” he explained, add

Lorna Hamilton
Oct 6, 20253 min read


ETC Car Wash Raises Funds In Memory Of Morgan Kitchen
Lakeland ETC students washing cars. Photo Sonya Lee On Friday September 26 the parking lot outside the ETC program was transformed into a buzzing bubbly tribute to volunteer fire fighter hero Morgan Kitchen. Buckets hoses and plenty of elbow grease were the tools of the day as ETC students hosted a memorial car wash in honour of Kitchen a 24 year old firefighter who tragically lost his life on August 3, 2024 while battling wildfires in Jasper National Park. Morgan a dedicated
Sonya Lee
Oct 6, 20252 min read


Darla Yonkman Runs For Vermilion Town CouncilLorna Hamilton
Darla Yonkman. Photo submitted With Vermilion’s municipal election set for October 20, residents will see three familiar and seven new names on the ballot. Among the new candidates stepping forward is Darla Yonkman, who is running for Town Council for the first time. Yonkman explained that while she has considered running for several years, the timing was finally right. “My work commitments lessened, and I finally had the time to give back,” she said. Encouraged by residents

Lorna Hamilton
Oct 6, 20252 min read


Kellen Snelgrove Announces Candidacy For Vermilion Town Councillor
Kellen Snelgrove. Photo submitted Lifelong Vermilion resident and active community volunteer, Kellen Snelgrove, has officially put his name forward as a candidate for Town Councillor in the upcoming municipal election. Snelgrove said the decision to run was not one he took lightly. Although he had considered entering the last election, he chose to focus on serving on several boards, including the Vermilion Credit Union, the Vermilion Agricultural Society, and the Vermilion Go

Lorna Hamilton
Oct 6, 20253 min read
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