The United Churches in Vermilion, Kitscoty, and Mannville, under the umbrella of the Vermilion River Pastoral Charge, officially welcomed their new minister, Reverend Doctor Lloyd Nyarota, on May 3. Bringing with him decades of ministry experience, international leadership, and a passion for community connection, Reverend Nyarota is looking forward to becoming part of life in the region. Originally from Zimbabwe, Reverend Nyarota was born in Chitenderano village and grew up i

What may seem like a simple meal or coffee run for many people carried a much deeper meaning in Vermilion during McHappy Day, as community members came together to support families facing some of life’s most difficult moments, including some local families. The annual fundraiser, held at McDonald’s locations across Canada, raises money for Ronald McDonald House Charities and local children’s programs, helping families remain close to their children while receiving medical car

Back row, from left, Jasmind D’Andrea, Carissa Farkash, Matt Hodge, Morgan Symes, Bonnie Walsh. Front row, from left, Shannon Hughes, and Danielle Hodge. Photo Sonya Lee Richardson Denture Clinic is celebrating an important milestone this spring, marking two years since Danielle officially took ownership of the long-standing practice while also welcoming the return of a local student beginning her practicum within the clinic. For Danielle, the anniversary represents far more

After months of collecting donations, sorting boxes, organizing tables, arranging furniture, and helping thousands of items find new homes and saving them from the landfill, the volunteers behind the Vermilion Rotary Garage Sale were finally able to slow down and celebrate together. On May 7, the Rotary Club of Vermilion hosted a volunteer appreciation barbecue to recognize the many individuals who helped make this year’s annual garage sale possible. Held following one of the

The Vermilion Lions Club is once again gearing up for their annual Walk for Dog Guides event, scheduled to take place at the CN station in the Vermilion Provincial Park on May 31. Sign-in for the event kicks off at 1 p.m., with the walk officially commencing at 2 p.m. This eagerly anticipated gathering is a day of family fun, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities, including furry companions. The primary objective of the Walk for Dog Guides is to raise essential fun

Photo Sue Chikie Few issues in Alberta’s forestry and wildlife landscape spark emotion quite like the province’s wild horses. Known affectionately to many as the “wildies,” the free roaming horses found throughout Alberta’s foothills have become both a symbol of western heritage and the centre of an increasingly emotional debate involving conservation groups, government officials, ranchers, and wildlife management experts. For advocacy organizations such as the Help Alberta W

Looking for an enjoyable activity on June 5 while supporting a noble cause? The Vermilion Lions Club is excited to announce its 27th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, set to take place at 1 p.m. at the Vermilion Golf and Country Club. This year’s tournament will support STARS Air Ambulance and the Kids with Cancer Society (KWCS). “This year we decided to split a portion of the proceeds with STARS, KWCS and local projects which the Lions Club supports,” said Lions member Tyson T

Town of Vermilion Council reviewed a wide range of community, infrastructure, and financial matters during its regular meeting on May 5, including updates from the Vermilion RCMP, regional airport advocacy efforts, first quarter financial reporting, and requests for support for upcoming community events. One of the evening’s major presentations came from Sgt. Ken Shamblaw, Detachment Commander for the Vermilion RCMP, who presented the quarterly policing report covering Januar

Potatoes have been cultivated for thousands of years in Peru, and valued for their healing properties. Potatoes are a good source of many healthful nutrients, including fiber, and copper. Copper is needed for energy and collagen production, iron release, and as an antioxidant to strengthen the immune system. Potatoes are a natural source of lipoic acid, vitamin C and vitamin B6, which are all are necessary fuel (co-factors) for a multitude of enzymatic reactions that are need

At the end of the 1930’s, my Grandpa had a horse they called old “Spot”, and he was as smart as a whip. His horse pen was on the far side of the house closer to the barnyard. Spot was so clever; he could open his gate and come into the yard. Sometimes it would just take a push. Other times, he would lift the gate closer with his muzzle (mouth) and push with his shoulder and enter the yard. Grandma would have freshly laundered clothes pinned on the clothesline once a week. If

For decades, fire was a major danger for many communities, including Vermilion. One spark could ignite a building and leave ashes in its wake. Vermilion has suffered many fires through its history. One of the worst for the community, not in terms of the size of the fire, but because of what it burned down, was the fire that came as a new year dawned. As 1940 began, the world was ramping up towards the most destructive war in human history. In Vermilion, while all that was hap

From wildfires and severe storms to sudden power outages and water disruptions, emergencies can happen quickly and often with little warning. As communities across Canada recognize Emergency Preparedness Week from May 3 to 9, residents are being encouraged to take practical steps now that could make all the difference later. The annual awareness campaign is designed to help individuals, families, farms, and businesses become better prepared for unexpected situations. In Alber

For Brody Sunderland, this moment has been building over time, shaped by seasons of growth, quiet determination, and a steady commitment to improving his game. The Kitscoty forward has signed a Western Hockey League Scholarship and Development Agreement with the Spokane Chiefs, marking an important step forward after being selected in the fourth round, 75th overall, in the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft. It is a milestone that reflects not only a strong season, but a player who has

Despite less-than-ideal weather conditions, the 2026 Wainwright & District Chamber of Commerce Trade Expo still drew a strong turnout this past weekend, with residents and visitors showing up to support local businesses, reconnect with neighbours, and take in one of the community’s signature annual events. Held April 24 and 25 at the Peace Memorial Multiplex, the two-day event transformed the facility into a busy hub of activity, featuring vendors, entertainment, family attra

Despite harsh weather conditions, including high winds and snow on Friday, April 24, members of the Lt. Col Craig Historical Society gathered to mark the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Kapyong, which took place from April 24 to 27, 1951. Fire School EST students were in attendance alongside retired Captain Mike ter Kuile, CD, and retired Lieutenant Daphne ter Kuile, CD, who played key roles in the students’ drill training. The pair led the inspection and march past, demons

Grass fire aftermath. Photo submitted On Saturday, May 2, emergency responders were called to a grass fire near Paradise Valley, offering a clear, real-time example of how quickly conditions can change. At approximately 2:30 p.m., the Paradise Valley Fire Department was dispatched to Range Road 13 just south of Highway 619 following reports of a running grass fire. Upon arrival, crews found the fire had already advanced into a dense thicket of bush and trees, with nearby stru

Alberta’s proposed Bill 28 is drawing attention across the province, but for many rural communities, the conversation may be less about politics and more about practical impact. Known as Bill 28, the legislation proposes amendments affecting municipalities, housing, and libraries. While much of the public focus has centered on larger urban centres, the bill could carry meaningful implications for small towns and rural Alberta. Among the most talked-about aspects of the legisl

There is always a certain kind of excitement that comes with recital season, and anyone who has attended knows it is about far more than just a performance. It is the reward after months of practice, discipline, and dedication. It is a community gathering to celebrate tradition, youth, and the joy of movement. On April 25, the Lakeland College Alumni Theatre was filled with music, colour, and applause as the Vermilion Ukrainian Cultural Association hosted its annual year-end

For Hannah and Holly Wright, staying close to home for post-secondary felt right in their bones. Raised on a ranch south of Lloydminster, the sisters found a way to chase their goals without stepping away from the life, the land, their family, and the rhythm they’ve always known. It means early mornings, shared responsibilities, and still being there for the everyday moments that matter, especially with their younger siblings. For Holly, now in her third year of the universit

After retiring, my dad’s brother, Uncle Clayt and his wife, Aunt Doris enjoyed travelling extensively locally and internationally. When exploring Alberta, they would load their camper onto their half-ton truck, turning it into a comfortable home on wheels. I think it seemed so remarkable to us because our family didn’t travel. They never had children so occasionally, one or more of us nieces and nephews would get an invitation to join them on a road trip. The one I remember t