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

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

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

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

Items still remaining for purchase Despite a surprise blast of wintry weather more fitting for mid-January than late April, the Vermilion Rotary Club’s Annual Garage Sale remained a strong community fundraiser, even as severe weather conditions had a noticeable impact on attendance. Held April 23 to 25 at the Vermilion Curling Rink West Door and the Heritage Pavilion at the Vermilion Fairgrounds, the popular sale opened with more shoppers than organizers had expected, conside

Zayn’s Diner Plus marked a major milestone on Saturday, April 18, celebrating its first anniversary with a lively parking lot party that brought the Vermilion community together for a good cause. Held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the celebration featured a DJ, face painting, and a wide selection of food including barbecue hotdogs, hamburgers, chicken fingers, pop, water, juice, and ice cream, along with a birthday cake to mark the occasion. With pleasant weather throughout the day

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

The team at Vermilion’s Shoppers Drug Mart has been demonstrating what true community spirit looks like, hosting a series of fundraising events in support of the Lois Hole Hospital for Women. Among the recent initiatives were a staff paint night, followed by a second community paint night held on March 27 at the Vermilion Public Library. Participants gathered to create artwork under the guidance of instructor Monica To, enjoying an opportunity to connect socially while contri

Back row from left, Dave King, Lakeland College dean of trades and technology, Kate Svidrak, Lakeland alumna and current Cenovus employee, Craig Party, senior manager, operations and maintenance, Adam Waterman, chair of the Lakeland College Board of Governors, Angela Minish, dean of business and energy Front row from left, Clayton Ulrich, senior field manager, conventional heavy oil operations, Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, Lakeland president and CEO, Patricia Hill, director,

The Vermilion Jr. B Tigers gathered with family, sponsors and community supporters on April 11 at the Vermilion Golf Course Club House for their annual year end wind up and awards night. The evening began with a 5 p.m. cocktail hour, followed by a roast beef dinner prepared by Colleen Hozack. Master of Ceremonies Brayden Wilson opened the program by recognizing the extensive volunteer support required to operate the team throughout the season. More than 90 sponsors, donors an

BAT students doing event registration. Photo Sonya Lee Students in Lakeland College’s Bachelor of Agriculture Technology (BAT) program successfully hosted Farm 4.0: From Dirt to Data on April 9 at the Vermilion Regional Centre, bringing together producers, industry professionals, and technology leaders for a day focused on the future of agriculture. Now in its fourth year, the event continues to grow as a hub for innovation, welcoming attendees from across the region for a fu