The Nutcracker Performers from left, Joe Carrier, Kendall Rutherford, Adeleine Poulin, Emily Prokpetz, and Emma Poulin. Photo Lorna Hamilton A beloved holiday favourite returned to the stage at the Lakeland College Alumni Theatre on December 13 as Wainwright Dance Academy delighted audiences with a newly imagined presentation of The Nutcracker. Joined by talented guest performers from the Turtleford School of Dance, the academy offered a production that respected the ballet’s

The holiday spirit was alive and well at the Vermilion Public Library this past week as staff and volunteers hosted not one, but two festive events designed to bring neighbours together and spark a little December joy. On Thursday, December 4, the library offered up a hearty dose of Yuletide Cheer, welcoming patrons in for homemade snacks, hot coffee, and comforting tea. Community members were encouraged to drop by, warm up, and help themselves to a cozy mid-week treat. The c

The Lakeland Mall transformed into a festive haven on November 28 and 29, hosting the much-anticipated Hallway of Handicrafts. The bustling corridor resembled Santa’s workshop, brimming with holiday spirit and countless treasures crafted with love. Every table was a feast for the eyes, showcasing a dazzling array of handmade goods. Shoppers delighted in baked treats, crocheted stuffies, exquisite chocolates, delicate jewelry, intricate quilting, cozy knits, and even whimsical

Kevin Roland from the Legion, presented students and staff at Innisfree Delnorte School their $200 cheque towards food for students. Photo submitted On November 25, members of the Royal Canadian Legion visited several local and area schools to present cheques in support of their hot lunch programs. Each year the Legion donates funds to Vermilion Elementary School, J.R. Robson School, St. Jerome’s Catholic School, Mannville School, and Innisfree Delnorte School, with the cont

The Vermilion Chamber of Commerce ushered in the holiday season with a heart-warming Christmas Parade, while businesses and organizations held night activities along Main Street on November 28. The event, which featured vibrant floats, traditional favourites foods, and a visit from Santa Claus, drew a substantial crowd, creating a festive atmosphere for all. Businesses also offered Black Friday sales for those who were looking to do some Christmas shopping. The Vermilion Cham

Greg reading from one of the personalized photobooks that he wrote. Photos Sonya Lee From November 15 to December 15, something unusual has fluttered into the Vermilion Public Library. Between the rows of books and the warm hush of winter air, tiny wings glimmered on the walls, mushrooms glowed softly, and children paused mid-step as though some unseen fairy might dart past at any moment. This month-long spell has been cast by local photographic artist Greg Haslehurst, whose

With Christmas just around the corner, the excitement is growing, as businesses and the Town have started decorating for the holiday season. The town is becoming festive as we now see the twinkling of holiday lights, but there’s one magical moment that stands out-the Christmas parade. Mark your calendars for November 28, as the parade kicks off at 7 p.m., which is early enough for even the littlest ones to come out with their parents and bask in the wonders of holiday floats

In the heart-warming spirit of giving that defines the holiday season, the Ron Moses Community Christmas Dinner is set to mark its 30th year of spreading joy and festive cheer throughout the community. What began as a humble invitation from Ron Moses in 1996 has blossomed into a welcomed tradition, embraced by the residents of Vermilion and the area. The origins of this tradition trace back to 1996 when Ron Moses, alongside his wife Lynda, invited community members to join th

New Memorials for Fallen Hero’s at the Royal Canadian Legion. Photo submitted Three new memorial plaques were recently received by the local Legion Branch commemorating Fallen Heroes with ties to the Vermilion Area. On the left is Vincent Stanley Hall sponsored by Creech’s Lakeland Funeral Home. In the centre is Charles Duncan Calder sponsored by Martin’s Plumbing & Heating and on the right is Albert Walter Klatt sponsored by the Klatt Family from Vermilion. Also adding to sp

Savor lit up the Vermilion Regional Centre on Friday, November 21, as guests poured in for an evening that blended tasting experiences with high-energy entertainment. Hosted by the Good Life Institute, this year’s event delivered everything attendees hoped for and more, creating a night packed with connection, celebration, and unforgettable moments. From the moment people stepped inside, the atmosphere buzzed with warmth and anticipation. Lights glowed softly across the room,

Patty Milnthrop Community Engagement Liason for Spark Foundation of Lloydminster. Photo Sonya Lee The SPARK Foundation of Lloydminster has long been committed to creating safer, stronger communities through support, education, and advocacy. Founded to help women, children, and youth facing crisis, SPARK has grown from a small grassroots effort into a pillar of safety and compassion in the region. This November, the Foundation is once again leading Lloydminster’s participation

Photo Greg Haslehurst The Vermilion Allied Arts Council delivered a moving and memorable evening on November 8 as Billy Bishop Goes To War took to the stage at the Alumni Hall Theatre at Lakeland College. The performance brought audiences a powerful portrayal of one of Canada’s most celebrated war heroes. Actor Damon Calderwood captivated the crowd with his portrayal of William Avery “Billy” Bishop, the famed Canadian flying ace of World War I. Through song, storytelling, and

The ceremony at the Vermilion Cenotaph. Photo Lorna Hamilton. Under a partly sunny sky and unusually warm November temperatures, a solemn gathering convened at the Vermilion Cenotaph on November 11 for the annual Remembrance Day ceremony. In a powerful display of community solidarity, residents came together to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and to honour those who continue to dedicate their lives to protecting the freedoms and democracy cherished by all

Veterans who attended the Appreciation Supper. Photo Lorna Hamilton On November 8, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 hosted its second annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner to honour the service and sacrifice of veterans in the community—both past and present. Co-Chair and Master of Ceremonies, Rhonda Hayduk, warmly welcomed everyone to the evening’s event, saying, “I really appreciate all of you for making it here.” After a few housekeeping notes, she introduced Chairman Com

Back row, from left, Rotary member Denise Williamson, Rotary members Harm Tjardes and Eugene Wasylik and Lions Peter Clark. Front row, from left Rotary members Bernie and Scott Webb, Vermilion and District Housing Foundation Brittany Bratrud, Vermilion and District Housing Foundation Clinical Director Kristin Stefanec, Lions member Hayward Vaters and Sam Alhalahi, and Rotary member Darlene Barlow. Photo Lorna Hamilton On the afternoon of November 4 representatives from the Ve

From left, Rotary member Shawn Jacula, Bethany Jacula, Jean Jacula, Kelli Jacula-Kochan, Kim Becher, Dean Jacula. Photo submitted The Vermilion community came together on Saturday, November 1, 2025, as the Rotary Club of Vermilion hosted its biennial Harvest Gala at the Vermilion Regional Centre. The cherished event brought 220 friends, families, and neighbours together to celebrate the season of harvest while supporting a deeply meaningful cause; an amazing turn out consider

Members of the Vermilion Lions Club and students from Battalion 28 of the Emergency Services Technology. Photo Lorna Hamilton On a windy afternoon on Saturday, October 25, members of the Vermilion Lions Club joined forces with Fire students from Battalion 28 of the Emergency Services Technology program at Lakeland College to fill and deliver 370 sandbags. The sandbags were distributed to several local businesses, including the Vermilion Co-op Gas Bar, Shell Service Station, a

On October 30, a chilly morning set the stage for research projects focused on precision ranching, cattle nutrition, and livestock wellness at Lakeland College’s Vermilion campus during Research for the Ranch: Livestock Field Day. The event brought together livestock producers, industry representatives, students, and fellow researchers to explore the valuable work conducted by Lakeland’s applied research team and its impact on the future of agriculture. “Our research team foc

From left, Ed Ehle, Carter Babij, Brandon Cookson Winners of the Murray Westman Classic. Photos Sonya Lee The Murray Westman Cash Classic made its return to the Vermilion Curling Club this past weekend, bringing with it a wave of nostalgia, laughter, and competitive spirit that could only be described as pure “Murray.” For decades, Murray was more than just a player; he was the Vermilion Curling Club. His “not afraid to lose” attitude, sharp wit, and unwavering passion for th

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