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

President of the Lt. Col. Craig Armoury Historical Society Don Henry with Barb Snelgrove winner of the $3,500 diamond necklace. Photo Lorna Hamilton The Lt. Col. Craig Armoury Historical Society unveiled its inaugural Spring Fashion Gala on April 11 at the Regional Centre with an evening that shimmered with style, purpose, and unmistakable community spirit. The sold-out event drew a vibrant crowd, eager to indulge in an experience where fashion met philanthropy and heritage w

Webb’s Partners, from left, Dan, Andrew, Scott, Mike and Adam Webb. Photo Lorna Hamilton Webb’s Machinery welcomed customers and community members on April 9 to celebrate the grand opening of its newly constructed Wainwright dealership, a project built from the ground up. Construction on the facility began in 2024 and the building was ready for occupancy in November 2025. The event, which ran from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., drew attendees from across the region for an afternoon of co

From the left Ed Simmons ready to spin the wheel and Lyndon Spicer, Parts Manager. For more than 25 years, Webb’s Machinery has remained a strong supporter of the agricultural community, and this year marked another successful return of its popular Discount Days event. Held from April 6 to 10, all six Webb’s Machinery locations took part in the annual promotion, offering customers a week filled with savings, appreciation, and community connection. Throughout the event, custom

The Vermilion Allied Arts Council brought its 2025/2026 season to a vibrant and memorable close on March 28, as Ariana Whitlow took to the stage at the Alumni Theatre with her electrifying Divas Live performance. From the moment the show began, Whitlow commanded the stage with a confident presence that immediately drew the audience in. Backed by a tight and professional band, she delivered a seamless blend of powerhouse vocals and engaging stage performance that paid tribute

Jr. B Tigers with their Bronze medal win. Photo submitted The 2026 Alberta Junior B Hockey Provincials brought a full weekend of high-level competition to the Cenovus Energy Hub in Lloydminster from April 1–5, with the Lloydminster Bandits hosting six teams from across the province in a well-run and highly attended event. While the host Bandits worked hard throughout the tournament, it was the Vermilion Tigers who found their stride late, finishing the weekend strong and capt

Northern Lights. Photo by Rob Baron The Outdoor Recreation Club hosted An Evening Under the Stars on March 31, welcoming attendees to an engaging and educational presentation focused on the night sky and the art of astrophotography. Held in Lakeland College, the free event featured local astronomer and astrophotographer Rob Baron, who shared his knowledge and passion for capturing the beauty of the universe. Throughout the evening, Baron provided insight into the fascinating

Representatives from the Town of Vermilion were at the Alberta Legislature March 27, where they met with the Minister of Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen to discuss key priorities and future opportunities for the community. The meeting provided an opportunity for municipal leaders to advocate for Vermilion’s needs while strengthening connections with provincial decision-makers. Several important topics were brought forward during the discussion, reflecting both current initiati

The team at Lakeside Pharmacy. Photo Sonya Lee Lakeside Pharmacy marked its third anniversary on March 26 with a community-focused celebration that brought residents together in a warm and welcoming way. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., community members were invited to stop by either through the pharmacy’s drive-thru or inside the store, where complimentary drinks and treats were served. The unique setup allowed guests to celebrate in a way that suited them best, whether from the com