August 20 Lamont Leader

Mundare hosts successful Agri-Days

BY JOHN MATHER

Once again, Mundare came together to produce a successful Agri Days weekend.

Activities got underway on Aug. 15 with exhibitors dropping off their art, crafts, produce and flowers for the annual bench show.

“You know it’s one of the last ones in the province,” said organizer Irene Talaga.

“And you know, this year hasn’t been the greatest year to grow anything, but we had 35 exhibitors and one row of flower arrangements stretched the length of the curling club.”

A slow pitch tournament also got underway Friday evening with action happening on three diamonds at Ukrainia Park.

Later Friday evening the Corner Pub was the place to be as they hosted a very successful Beach Party.

While Saturday started out very cool and cloudy it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the hundreds that came out to the annual Mundare Firefighters pancake breakfast.

Following the breakfast, the main street filled up with residents ready to watch the annual Mundare Agri Days parade.

Led by members of the RCMP, the parade wound its way up the main street turning by Father Filas Manor and then wound its way back to the staging area along railway street.

Floats from neighbouring municipalities and local area businesses took part in the parade and riders tossed candy and other goodies to the numerous youngsters lining the parade route.

After the parade, various street activities got underway with strong crowds in attendance.

The sun broke through the clouds and it warmed up the Mundare Firefighter challenge which was held near the parade staging area.

Beginning with racing through giant bouncy castle inflatables, firefighters from various Lamont Emergency Service stations then tried to pitch a large nerf ball into a bucket using an oversized plastic golf club.

Once this task was complete they

moved to the main street when a mini putt course had been set up for them to test their skills.

Just to the north of the mini putt on main street, a variety of street performers demonstrated their talents to an appreciative crowd.

In a vacant lot behind the street performers, kids were thrilled to be able to touch a variety of farm animals at the petting zoo.

Once again, Mundare proved they can host a successful event in a small space. MORE PICTURES PAGE 2

Mundare Agri-Days activities fun for all

Lamont County congratulates Chomiaks on 60th wedding anniversary

BY JANA SEMENUIK

Lamont

County

The festivities took place on the Chomiak family farm south of Mundare.

Warawa presented the

Deputy Reeve Daniel Warawa joined nearly 100 of John and Cathie Chomiak’s family andfriends on Aug. 16 for their 60th anniversary celebration, to bring congratulations from the County.

couple with a special engraved glass award as well as a certificate.

“Congratulations, John and Cathie. It was about 22 years ago when I met John and Cathie. It was when I was running

Village of Chipman to hold public hearing on land rezoning

BY JANA SEMENIUK

The Village of Chipman could be growing with the recent sale of two large parcels of land, one of which is the subject of an upcoming public hearing for rezoning.

for council and John signed my nomination papers,” he said. “On behalf of Lamont County, John and Cathie, happy anniversary.”

As told by the couple’s oldest daughter, Christine, the Chomiaks met while bowling in a tournament and eventu-

ally married on Aug. 14, 1965.

John said he remembers the tournament and the moment he met Cathie.

“For some reason, I won a trophy. But I discarded that trophy because this is the trophy that I (wanted),” said

Meanwhile,

Gargus along with his Silver and Gold band.

However, Tomkow confirmed in a recent interview that the father and son team, who intend to build a greenhouse, have also purchased the seven and a half-acre parcel.

Tomkow said the land is currently zoned partly for heavy industrial commercial and partly for residential. She said the new land owners are looking to have it zoned all as general commercial.

Chipman Chief Administrative Officer Pat Tomkow reported to the village council in June that a father and son team from Calgary purchased one parcel, hoping to erect a greenhouse, while the other seven-and-a-half-acre parcel was purchased by a company.

Tomkow said the village council held a special meeting on Aug. 7 to approve first reading of the rezoning bylaw and now must move to a public hearing before passing second and third reading.

“It’s got to be a public process,” said Tomkow, adding she is unsure what the new owners are planning for the land.

The public hearing will be held Sept. 8 during the council’s regular meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Melahna Sidor

April 13, 1972 August 21, 2024 Forever loved and missed

Opinion

Canola tariffs … it’s more than just a western problem … right?

BY JOHN MATHER

So how badly do Canadians want EV cars from China?

Why does BC Ferries buy their new ships from China rather than utilizing Canadian construction and Canadian steel? After all we do have a fairly extensive shipbuilding industry in this country.

Those are questions being asked after China slapped an additional 35 percent tariff on Canadian Canola exports last week.

The Chinese say Canada subsidizes the Canola industry too much. Yet they subsidize their EV industry and punish Canada for crawling into bed with the Donald Trump regime and not allowing Chinese EVs to come into the North American marketplace.

Frankly, I think we should allow the cheap Chinese EV imports into the Canadian marketplace. Let that marketplace decide whether the vehicles are viable or not. Or does the public even want them?

After all, the infrastructure network for EVs isn’t that great in this country. Someday it might be, but it certainly isn’t right now.

China put a 100 per cent tariff on canola meal and oil several months ago, and then last week it added a 78.5 per cent tariff on canola seed.

Domestic canola prices immediately tumbled, likely costing Canada’s 40,000 canola farmers tens of thousands of dollars each.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe argued that the canola sector accounts for 200,000 jobs – more than the combined tally of direct jobs in the auto, aluminum and steel sectors.

So as the canola crop ripens in the fields of Alberta and Saskatchewan, what is the Carney Liberal government doing?

Are they seeking new markets for our canola producers?

Are they willing to provide subsidies or another form of relief for those farmers who may lose everything because their crop has become worthless because it can’t be sold.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith called the tariff “crushing” for farmers, noting nearly 70 per cent of Alberta’s canola seed exports go to China.

Continued

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew called on the Liberals to show the same support for the agricultural sector as the Liberals have shown for the steel, auto and lumber industries.

Meanwhile, Smith quickly went down Mexico way to pitch both our energy to combat against Trump tariffs, and our agricultural sector.

The canola industry is calling for swift action by Ottawa, warning Beijing is threatening a tariff so steep it would effectively seal off its $5-billion market to Canada.

The Chinese tariffs came into effect last Thursday but after meeting with canola producers, nothing has been announced.

When the tariff was announced the Libs expressed disappointment.

imports of canola seed from Canada.

“We do not dump canola. Our hardworking farmers provide world-class food to Canadians and international trading partners. Canadian canola products meet the highest standards, and our inspection systems are robust.

“Canada is committed to ensuring fair market access for our canola industry and we remain ready to engage in constructive dialogue with Chinese officials to address our respective trade concerns.”

Dialogue alone isn’t going to help our canola farmers as they face an uncertain future with a canola crop about to be harvested.

The Ottawa Liberals need to come up with a solution for support and they have to do it soon, or this too, will stoke western alienation.

After all, canola from Western Canada accounts for 90 per cent of the Canadian total.

She urged Ottawa to act immediately to resolve the dispute and “reopen access to this critical market before more livelihoods are destroyed.”

In a statement from The Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, and the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, they said, “Canada is deeply disappointed with China’s decision to implement provisional anti-dumping duties in its self-initiated investigation into

Now we know Trudeau would have shrugged his shoulders and said so what, but we’ve been told Carney is different.

Time to step up to the plate and prove it.

BY HAZEL ANAKA

Anyone who’s ever been pregnant or closely observed a woman’s behaviour during pregnancy will be familiar with the concept of ‘nesting.’ It’s an instinctual desire to prepare for the transition to parenthood and the arrival of a newborn. It usually manifests itself through deep cleaning, organizing, and preparing the space. There may also be attempts to get a jump on tasks that there will be less time and energy for after the birth of the baby. A burst of energy and sense of urgency to get things done in time is understandable.

I don’t think this type of activity is limited to pregnant women. It’s not much of a leap to find similar behaviours in men and women alike. Of course, they’re more calendar than hormone

FROM WHERE I SIT Satisfaction and Hope

driven. As we approach the transition to another season, people often tackle huge projects and to-do lists. Some will winterize motorhomes or close up the cabin. Gardens and fields of grain will be harvested as another growing season ends. Families will begin the transition to the start of another school year by easing back to normal bedtimes, stocking up on the fixings for lunches, buying new clothes and school supplies. And in each of these examples, there is a corresponding reversal at another point in the year that is equally big

and important. You may be wondering why I’m bringing this up now. Recently, I’ve noticed a plethora of organizing and decluttering videos on YouTube in my area of interest. It’s as though the dog days of summer are ending and people are resetting their spaces and minds for the coming ‘back to work’ mentality that seems to coincide with September first. And I’ve felt it too. I’ve spent long days tackling various areas of my studio space.

Part of the urgency for me is not the proverbial due date but rather the

start of school. I want to donate surplus craft and school supplies to the Andrew Rural Academy. I can’t imagine starting out with nothing. I see it as a way to stretch their budgets and inspire creativity within the staff and students. All of us become more resourceful the less we have; if we have heart, we rise to the occasion and the challenge.

So, while that may have been a pressing reason to ‘get on with it’ I was also becoming increasingly frustrated by the clutter. It is a drain on energy and creativity. It is a huge time waster

as a person searches for whatever she can’t find. It is potentially a money waster if she forgets she has it, can’t find it even when she’s positive she has it, and ends up buying another one. The impulse is always to buy more storage containers or systems, to find a decluttering guru to worship, or to procrastinate. I know full well that I have empty drawers, shelves, bins. There is even the possibility I already own enough storage space for what I have but until things are sorted and put into place, that’s merely wishful thinking.

From the files of the Lamont Leader

Lamont and Area

Everyone Welcome! AA Meetings Thursdays at 8:00 pm

I’d more likely take the bet that I have far too much. That’s when trashing, donating, selling, repurposing become the action steps in the journey from chaos to calm. I’ve also come to the conclusion that thanks to Trump’s ongoing assault on traditional trade practices, my days are numbered as a seller of goods to Americans. Between the blanket 35 per cent tariff on Canadian goods and the end of de minimis on August 29th, we are screwed. De minimis is the policy that has allowed goods to pass duty-free between our countries. The $800 dutyfree cap is gone effective the 29th. Duty will be due and payable on every single dollar we spend on goods purchased while on vacation in the US. It will also trigger duty on every single dollar of goods sold to Americans. So, as I’ve spent the last several days assessing and organizing what I have, I’ve also begun soul searching a new direction and next steps. So while I nest and understand that no one but me could spot the differences I’ve made, it still fills me with satisfaction and hope, from where I sit.

Chipman’s goodbye to a local legend

BY JANA SEMENIUK

Over 200 people came out to the Village of Chipman’s National Hall on Aug. 16, paying tribute to a man people knew as a pillar of the community.

Bruce McGregor, 74, passed away with family and friends by his side at the Lamont Health Care Centre in May from lung cancer.

McGregor was known for his love of horses and his community, devoting the past 15 years of his life to the local acting troupe The Chipman Players.

Players President, and Village executive assistant Keiron Willis said McGregor’s absence was felt by everyone.

“Bruce always had a story and he was so entertaining,” said Willis. “We’re going to miss him big time.”

The Village of Chipman advertised McGregor’s Celebration of Life onto their large village sign highlighting his local notability.

Pastor Wayne Larsen officiated the service while McGregor’s dear friend, Merril Meyer, eulogized him.

“Bruce actually asked me to do it during one of our last visits in the Lamont hospital,” said Meyer. “I told him I was a bad public speaker, and I'm way too emotional, but he wouldn't take no for an answer.”

Meyer told the story of

his friendship with McGregor, beginning during classes at Alberta College in 1967 where the two were completing their high school education.

He highlighted McGregor’s skill at telling stories and jokes as well as his love for horses and his competitiveness.

“Bruce combined his thirst for competition and his love of horses by competing in the sport of Team Cattle Penning. In 2019 Bruce won his first buckle at the age of 69 along with teammates Terry Sargent and Jessica Hawkins in the seventh class, which, as many of you know, requires a very high level of proficiency,” he said.

Meyer also explained how much McGregor loved his family. When his wife of nearly 50 years, Sam, suffered declining health, McGregor became her caregiver in addition to managing his other responsibilities.

“Bruce had to become a caregiver with the help and support of (his children) Joshua and Kansas, as well as manage the farm at the Ukrainian Village until Sam's passing on May 23, 2021,” he said.

“I personally never heard a word of complaint or self-pity from anyone in the family. McGregors are made of good stock.”

Meyer also noted McGregor’s love of theatre. He explained that McGregor especially favoured playing a Mark Twain persona, bearing a striking resemblance to the famous 19the century writer with his signature thick moustache.

Fellow Chipman Players actor Tom Hrehorets also provided some entertaining stories about McGregor including one story of his tenacity when it came to his role with the Players.

He described how the group were rehearsing one night and later, at home, McGregor suffered a heart attack.

“It was a Thursday night. Bruce ended up going to emergency and landed at the U of A (hospital) and I think they did four stints for him that night,” he said.

“And Saturday night he was on stage. Talk about dedication.”

One additional unique aspect of McGregor’s service was his burial.

While McGregor was cremated not long after his passing, it was his own cowboy boots which held his ashes for burial, complete with scuffs around the toes and a permanent fold near the ankles from years of wear.

McGregor’s daughterin-law Tania Davis explained that it was his daughter Kansas who came up with the idea to use McGregor’s boots as

his urn. She said she was very happy with their decision.

“Those were his actual everyday boots,” she said. “I was ecstatic about it because that was Bruce. Always has been. Since I’ve known him, he was in his boots.”

McGregor is buried at the Chipman United Church Cemetery.

Previewing Hours: 10 AM - 6 PM Starting Aug 25

From the Hwy. #13 & Hwy. #872 junction east of Lougheed go 7 km south on Hwy. #872 to Twp. Rd. #423 & then go 8 km west to Rg. Rd. #114 & then go 0.4 km south. The farm is on the east side of the road.

COMBINE

●2016 CHALLENGER 540E combine w/ Challenger 4300 15 ft. pickup header, 1,552 separator hours, 2,418 engine hours, 620/70R42 duals, 750/65R26 rears, rear wheel assist, power fold hopper, GPS, 24 ft. unloading auger w/ rotating spout, single point hookup, electric adjustable chaffer/sieve, single speed beater, small wire concaves, segmented bar rotor, MAV chopper, HID light package, deluxe seat, beacons, shedded.

TRACTOR

●2015 MASSEY FERGUSON 4708 MFWD tractor w/ 2017 MF 936X self levelling FEL w/ 7 ft. bucket, 1,654 hours, 80 hp. engine, LHR, joystick, 3 pt. hitch, 540/1000 pto., 12F/12R, 420/85R34 rears, 340/85R24 fronts, 2 hyd’s., shedded.

TRAILERS

●1999 WILSON 53 ft. t/a aluminum cattle liner, 8 ½ ft. wide, rear doghouse, aluminum checkerplate floor, divider gates, air suspension, 11R24.5 tires w/ aluminum rims, roll up door, LH door access, hauls ± (35) cow/calf pairs or ±(90) market weight calves, GVWR = 75,000 lbs.

●2001 SOUTHLAND 20 ft. t/a gooseneck stock trailer, ST235/85R16 tires w/ 8 bolt rims, center divider gate, 7 ft. wide, RV style hitch. GVWR = 15,242 lbs.

BALER

●2014 NEW HOLLAND RB560 round baler, 7,720 total bales, 1000 pto., 21.5L-16.1SL high floatation tires, hyd. pickup, monitor, twine or netwrap, fire extinguisher, shedded.

ROUND BALE HANDLING

●2002 TUBELINE 5500A round bale wrapper w/ Honda GX390 13 hp. electric start engine, wraps up to 5 ft. X 6 ft. bales, hydraulic drive wrapper w/ 5.70-8 tire, rear bale chute w/ rollers & hydraulic lift, dual wrap rolls, hydraulic bale feed, hydraulic front steer axle, hydraulic brakes, extendable hitch, road lights, 11l-15SL front & rear tires.

●HAUKAAS QP10 t/a round bale mover, hauls 10 round bales.

●BALE KING 5100 bale processor, 1000 pto., RH discharge.

BY JOHN MATHER

Lamont County council approved two bridge construction contracts during the regular Aug. 12 council meeting.

Bridge file 74082 is for a bridge located on Rge. RD 183 just south of Hwy 15.

Public works director Darby Dietz explained to council 11 bids had been received for the project ranging in price from $502,782.64 at the high end to $342,133.00 at the low end.

Dietz said the lowest bid was in full compliance of the tender package put together by administration so he recommended council pro-

ceed with it.

That contract will be carried out by West Can Seal Coating.

Allowing for 15 days of site occupancy, the bidder had agreed to start the project on Sept. 15 and have it completed by Sept. 30.

The project is fully funded in the County’s budget with funds coming from the Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Grant and the Canada Community Building Fund.

The project involves replacement of the existing 1,800mm CSP culverts with 2,400mm diameter CSP culvert. This will also include a

slight raise in the road grade at the culvert location.

The second bridge tender awarded varied a little in that the lowest bid received was not in compliance with the tender package, said Dietz.

Problems with the tender included the price total calculation was incorrect; the bid bond was insufficient because of the incorrect bid total;  the bidder submitted a Temporary Letter of Certification, rather than a Certificate of Recognition; and several required documents were missing from the tender submission.

The second lowest

tender was found to be in compliance, stated Dietz and he suggested council go with it.

The lowest bid on the project was $240,162.30 and the highest was $358,545.00.

This project would also be funded out of the Canada Community Building Funds with additional funding coming from the County’s bridge reserve fund.

This project is located on Range Road 172 south of Township Road 542.

It will be carried out by the winning bidder Prairie Erectors

The current 2,134mm X 1,549mm arched CSP culvert will be removed

and replaced by a 1,800mm diameter CSP culvert.

Dietz recommended council award the tender to  who had the second lowest bid with work

commencing  around Sept. 15 and being completed by Oct. 30. Council, having worked previously with the winning bidders, approved both projects.

Lamont County joined communities across the province in celebrating Alberta Open Farm Days this past weekend, welcoming visitors to explore local farms and learn more about the region’s strong agricultural roots.

Families, friends, and visitors had the chance to step onto working farms, meet local producers, and see first-hand how food is grown and raised right here at home.

From cattle and grain operations to greenhouses and hobby farms, each host offered a unique glimpse into rural life and the hard work that keeps Alberta’s agriculture thriving.

In Bruderheim, the Agricultural Society hosted tours of the historic Walker School, flower arrangement sesions, farrier demonstrations, showcasing the skill and care that goes into maintaining horses’

hooves, as well as lively dog and geese herding demonstrations that impressed visitors of all ages.

At Pitchfork Gardens, guests enjoyed a handson farm experience by picking their own fresh produce, meeting friendly ponies and miniature donkeys, and sharing in a barbecue.

In true farm-to-table spirit, all proceeds from the barbecue were donated to the Lamont Food Bank, highlighting the generosity and community focus that make the event so special.

Beyond individual activities, Alberta Open Farm Days continues to build important connections between rural and urban residents.

Visitors often leave with a stronger appreciation for the dedication of local farmers and the essential role agriculture plays in everyday life.

With its rich farmland and long-standing traditions, Lamont County

remains an important contributor to Alberta’s food system. Open Farm Days once again shone a

light on that legacy, while also celebrating the people and communities who keep it alive.

Break-ins force cancellation of church tour promotion

BY JOHN MATHER

Lamont County

Division Five councillor

Neil Woitas once again brought up the concerns of several local churches regarding being promoted on the County’s church tour advertising.

Woitas first brought the issue up June 24 after  the Russo Greek Catholic Orthodox Church near Star was broken in and had some of their property stolen.

“I’ve been getting lots of calls from parishioners wanting to get their churches off the County website,” Woitas said at the June 24 council. meeting.

“You can go on there and see inside the church and everything in there.

“There have been five churches broken into recently, the most recent one near Skaro.”

At that time, Division two councillor Aaron

Wick suggested council accept Woitas’ concerns as information but if any churches asked to be removed from the church tour website or advertising, then that could be looked into further.

On July 7, the Orthodox V Charitable Association wrote to the County asking that their 12 parishes including churches in Chipman, Mundare, North Star, Skaro and Old Wostok be removed from County advertising.

Woitas said in addition to this letter, he had been told a couple of churches would be writing to ask to be removed.

He reported a program was promoting the church tours in Vegreville and the churches were concerned it was an open invitation for rural thieves to set them up for break-ins

during quiet periods.

He said several churches had expressed concern to him that thieves may consider burning down the churches when they couldn’t find anything more to steal.

Division One councillor Danial Warawa asked how many people went on the tours and Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky said most people just went to visit the churches on their own and at their own convenience.

Woitas said eight churches had been broken into and they weren’t located on main roads.

He said in one instance they stole a candelabra and a small tub used to christen babies. Tarnawsky asked if they just wanted radio advertising stopped or all advertising?

Bruderheim resident donates T-shirt proceeds

BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG

What began as a creative fundraising idea at a local event has turned into an act of kindness for a Bruderheim family in need.

Bruderheim resident Katrina Holtzhauer had designed and printed Tshirts to sell at this year’s Bruderheim Model T Races, with hopes of adding a fun, community-spirited touch to the annual event.

Unfortunately, the races were cancelled after one of the organizers, Matt Hotte, was seriously injured in a car accident.

Instead of letting the shirts go to waste, Katrina decided to turn her project into a way to help. She will be donating a portion of the sales to Matt and his family as they face the difficult road to recovery.

The gesture has been met with gratitude and support, with residents purchasing shirts not only to show their love for the Model T races, but also to show solidarity with the Hotte family.

Friends have also set up a Go Fund Me page which has since raised over one hundred and forty-five thousand dollars.

Reeve David Diduck asked if they wanted just to remove the 12 churches requested or did they wanted to shut down the church tours completely?

Tarnawsky said on the County website 1,000

people had viewed the church tours site so it did have some audience.

Woitas suggested they cancel the church tour promotion for now and if things did settle down it could be resurrected

Woitas moved a motion to remove the church tours from the website and from any radio advertising and the motion carried.

life’s journey, protect your family and respect your budget. Courtney Chopping

Start the conversation today, call 780-472-9019

Fall Machinery Consignment Auction

accepting Listings for this

and the Northern USA.

STARS honours long relationship with Lamont County

BY JANA SEMENIUK

This year, as STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service) Air Ambulance are celebrating their 40th year in the air, Donor Relations and Development Officer Shannon Paquette presented Lamont County Council with a special plaque in recognition of their long-standing relationship with the air rescue organization.

Additionally, Paquette delivered a presentation covering some highlights of the rescue helicopter since STARS inception in 1985. She said, to date, STARS has flown more than 60,000 missions with nearly 4,000 flown in the last fiscal year.

Lamont County averages eight mission per year with 2016 being the year with the largest number of missions at 14.

Additionally, over the past 14 years, STARS has rescued people within the County 133 times with the majority occurring at the Lamont Health Care Centre. Paquette also described how STARS is funded.

“Last year, we were fortunate to sign a 10year affiliation agreement with the Government of Alberta for $10 million block funding per year, which is incredible,” she said.

“After the Alberta Government’s contributions, we still have to raise 56 percent of our operating costs, which is $34.2 million.”

Paquette said the STARS annual lottery brings in $11 million per year, which is almost enough to fund one of their six bases. She added that STARS are borderless, although they primarily serve Western Canada and have bases in Alta., SK, and MB.

She said the longest mission STARS has

flown to date was in 2022 when a man hunting in Northeastern BC was having a heart attack. The flight to bring him to hospital was eight hours over 1,700 kilometers using 2,400 liters of fuel.

“Eight hours of flight in total, with five hours working with a patient, equals one life saved,” she said.

As Paquette wrapped up her delegation, the County Council had a presentation for her; a donation check for $5,631.

NOTICE OF DECISION(S) PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

(August 18th, 2025)

For additional information, please call the Development Officer for the Town of Bruderheim at (780) 994-1883. Written notices of appeal can be submitted to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, Box 280, Bruderheim, AB. T0B 0S0 by 12:00 NOON on September 12th, 2025, accompanied by the required appeal fee of $300.00.

Marko, Ronald Andrew

September 14, 1954 - August 12, 2025

It is with sad hearts we say goodbye to Ron who passed at Two Hills Health Center.

We will miss his sweet tooth, great smiles and gardening expertise. He was predeceased by his parents Andrew and Pauline, siblings RoseMarie Kaban (Peter), Jane Marko and his brother Terry (Collette). He leaves behind his sister Linda Chipeniuk (Edward/Chip) and numerous nieces and nephews and his friend Deanna Ruether (The Little Things)

A private family service will be held at Evergreen Cemetary on August 30, 2025.

Wasylechko, Elizabeth Mary (Hickey)

It is with great sadness and much love that we say goodbye to our beloved mother Liz, who passed away on August 12, 2025, at the age of 83.

Liz is lovingly remembered by Willie Wasylechko, married for 63 years, children; Joe, Vladimir (Leigh-ann), Margaret (Peter), Grandchildren; Cassandra (Travis), Ashleigh (Chris), Michael (Katie) great-grandchildren, Aaliyah and Brinley. She is also survived by too many nieces and nephew to mention but we love them all.

She was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Lena Hicky, siblings; Urban,

Leonard, Delphis, Dora, Cora, Charlotte, Agnes and Alphee.

A funeral service will take place on August 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM in Smoky Lake at the Ukrainian National Hall at 107 Willow Creek Street, with Father Evan officiating. The interment (burial) will follow at Holy Ascension Ukrainian Greek Orthodox Cemetery.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Fort Hospital for their kindness support and care shown to Liz.

Memorial donations in memory of Liz can be made directly to Heart & Stroke Foundation 1200-2300 Yonge Street, Box 2414 Toronto, ON M4P 1E4

The service for Liz will be livestreamed. Link will be posted to Serenity obituary page.

9914 103 Street Fort Saskatchewan, AB Phone: (780) 998-1422

Fax: (780) 998-1423 Website: www.serenity.ca

$20/wk

CARD OF THANKS

On behalf of the entire family we would like to express our sincere gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.

We were deeply touched by the visits, cards, flowers, food, phone calls, texts and the donations received from our family, friends and community.

Your kindness has been a source of comfort and strength for us. In lieu of thank you cards we have made a donation to the Sedgewick Archives and Museum.

With heartfelt thanks, The family of Joan Djos

COMING EVENTS

MEIER 2-DAY LIVE ON-SITE AUCTION for Grant Yeske,

Saturday, August 23 & Sunday, August 24

10am #409, 67325 Churchill Park Rd., Lac La Biche, AB.

Selling Bobcat S300, Trucks, Classic Cars, Trailers, ATVs, RVs, Oil Field Buildings, Full Mechanics Shop, New Mopar Parts, Engines, Lawn Tractors, Attachments, Firearms, Sportsman Items, Antiques. Visit www.meierauction.com

Carrots, Potatoes, Beets, Beans Are Ready!!!

East of Sedgewick, off Highway 13, turn north on RR122, then go north 3 miles. Helen Tanton - 780-888-6800

Gathering of the Clans Highland Festival 2025 Sedgewick, Alberta at the Recreation Grounds

Saturday, August 23

Gates open at 10 am.

Heavy events, artisan vendors, demonstrators, pipes and drums, highland animals, kids zone, food trucks, and much more. Evening entertainment starts at 5pm Dance with Cabot’s Crossing starts at 7pm. Overnight camping available and a donation breakfast Sunday morning. Advance gate admission and tickets to the Ceiliedh (dance) are available now at flagstaffscottishclub.com/gotchf-event

CLASSIFIEDS

COMING EVENTS

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SUMMER SALE!

$500 Off a pair of hearing devices! Free remote control!

Can be combined with government funding from AADL of $900 Benchmark Hearing Centre

Main Street Daysland Phone 780-374-3748

Or book online! benchmarkhearingcentre.ca

FOR SALE

Set of 4 Michelin Defender LTX M/S Tires - 265/65R18. Like new. $800. Phone 780-662-3347. TM33P

ARDENT Wood Stove to dismantle; Made in Canada. $3,000, will consider offers. Three-car carport, new, 30' by 36' to be moved from Andrew; please call for viewing/photos 780-888-7011 or 780-888-2600

32/33p

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Equipment For Sale

• Zero Turn Cub Cadet Lawnmower 54" with approximately 250 hours 25 years old

• Kubota Side by Side with Dump Box

• Massey Ferguson model 255 with approximately 3,000 hours with ease-on front end loader.

• Restored W30 International. New paint, runs good.

Call Norman at 780-385-8814. 33/36p

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BLS Fresh Garden Products

The following will be available soon: peas, beans, cucumbers, cabbages, dill. For other products please text 780-860-2672. In the Bruce area. TM32-35P

Equipment for Sale

1999 John Deere 566 Round BalerTwine only. 23,877 bales

Call Roger at 780-385-1070

30/32p

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4 month old Hens. Mixed breed Australorp, Plymouth Rock Columbian Rock Hens. Started to lay eggs. $18.00 a bird. More information phone or text 780-632-9881. LL32p

FOR SALE

INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678 www.integritybuilt.com

Farm Machinery

*1989 8460 COMBINE - 2901 hours; *1984 860 Massey Combine - 2367 hours; *885 Massey Swather - 18 Ft. UII Header, Crop Lifters - 2636 hours. Ph: 780-829-2270; email jlinhondo@gmail.com.

NOTICE

I, Vanshi Sumit Patel, Daughter of Sumit Ravilal Patel, holder of Indian Passport Number T7809054, issued at Ahmedabad, Gujarat on 23 August 2019, Permanent resident of B-304,Aawaass Riverfront, Randesan, Gandhinagar, PIN382007, Gujarat, India, and presently residing at PO Box 625, 5131 52 Ave Viking Alberta T0B 4N0, do hereby change my name from Vanshi Sumit Patel to Vanshi Harsh Patel, with immediate effect.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS

Estate of Joseph MARYNOWICH who died on November 27, 2019. If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by September 9, 2025 and provide details of your claim with: Public Trustee at: 4th Floor, 10365 - 97 Street Edmonton AB T5J 3Z8 Phone: (780) 427-2744 Fax: (780) 422-9136

If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.

SERVICES

Mike & Dave RV Inc. Service, Storage, Parts. Call us today! 780-415-5015 or visit our website: www.mdrv.ca **Located just 11 kms North of Tofield on Highway 834**.

CAUGHT YOU LOOKING PLACE AN AD IN THE CLASSIFIEDS. JUST $20/WK.

SERVICES

Painting

Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749

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Hakim Oberg Law

ALA HAKIM OBERG Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public Based in Forestburg, AB 5004 - 49 Ave. (Professional Centre, 2nd Floor) Please call for appointment. 780-238-6938 ala@hakimoberglaw.com www.hakimoberglaw.com

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Hawkeye Custom Corral Cleaning Hawkeye Ag Inc is your complete solution for corral cleaning. We also provide services in the agriculture space: land clearing, pen rebuilding, aggregate for small and large farm operations. Based out of Lamont. 780-718-7479

——————————————— PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.

———————————————— CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com

FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2025 AUCTION PROGRAM: Firearms, Ammunition, Accessories, or Militaria. Collections, Estates or single items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Contact us: 1-800-694-2609, Email: sales@switzersauction.com or Visit us @ www.switzersauction.com

Lamont RhPAP looking for County representation

BY JANA SEMENIUK

The Town of Lamont’s RhPAP committee (Rural Health Professions Action Plan), made a presentation to the County of Lamont at their Aug. 12 council meeting hoping to entice members to join their board and represent the County.

Lamont’s RhPAP committee first formed last year with the help of Rural Community Consultant Anya Langkow, who also gave the presentation to County council. She said the group works alongside provincial health care networks to help “enhance the attraction, integration and retention of health care providers in rural Alberta”.

doctors in rural areas.

Langkow said the way new medical professionals make a home for themselves in a community plays a big role.

“Studies have shown its integration into the community. If they have a spouse, were they able to find meaningful

on the committee.

Langkow answered by telling the story of a recent site visit by a prospective new healthcare worker that was able to be supported by having council representation in place.

Aanya Langkow

Currently, the town of Lamont RhPAP committee is comprised of Vice Chair Linda Sieker, Secretary/Admin Liason Dave Taylor, Chair Bill Skinner, Council Rep Jody Foulds, Lamont Health Care Rep. Linda Mills, Elk Island Public Schools Rep Sandra Stoddard, Family and Community Support Services Rep. Michelle Andriashyk, in addition to Langkow.

Deputy Reeve Daniel Warawa asked Langkow why it’s so hard to retain

employment? Are there child care and school opportunities for their family? It’s those connections and sense of community and belonging that leads to the biggest connection to a community then you stay for a long time,” she said.

“We are here to support attracting physicians to the community, and then support retaining and integrating them into your community so that both they and their family feel comfortable and a desire to stay for a long time.”

Lamont County Reeve David Diduck asked Langkow what the County’s role would be

“Because the committee was in place, they were able to quickly rally. Councillor Sieker and a few others, were able to arrange a great site visit that went very well, and it gave them the opportunity to chat firsthand with the incoming professional about what they're looking for in a community and what would help them consider coming to Lamont to work, which is fantastic in terms of council representation,” she said, adding the committee meetings are generally monthly with July and Aug. off.

Langkow said RhPAP has been in operation since 1991 and is funded by the ministry of health. The Lamont County Council first passed a motion to accept the presentation as information, then voted to direct administration to prepare a business case to support the RhPAP action plan. Both motions were passed unanimously.

4-H programs helped by John Deere

BY JOHN MATHER

The John Deere Foundation of Canada has partnered with 4-H Canada aimed at developing youth to take on leadership roles throughout the agriculture industry and in communities across the country.

The initiative brings a total of $175,000 in funding, including $100,000 from the John Deere Foundation of Canada and an additional $75,000 from eleven regional dealers.

In Alberta, this funding will support a variety of 4-H programs that focus on leadership, personal development, and hands-on learning

opportunities for youth.

These funds will help ensure that 4-H members across the province can access high-quality programs and experiences that build skills, foster confidence, and inspire the next generation of leaders in agriculture and beyond.

Funding in Alberta was provided by four local dealerships: Deerland Equipment, Horizon Ag & Turf, PrairieCoast Equipment, and Western Tractor.

The investment will help reach an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 youth through national 4-H programs such as Citizenship Congress

County rejects request for total vehicle identification using door signs

BY JOHN MATHER

Lamont County Division Five Councillor Neil Woitas questioned why county vehicles drive around the the area without any identification on them.

”I’ve been getting lots of calls that our pick ups and a gray gravel truck just have small decals on the back window,” he said. “Can we put some large decals on the doors so people know who owns these vehicles that are driving around.”

He said the agricultural fieldman had put decals on the doors of the weed inspectors vehicles so they could be easily identified, he added.

Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky said the administration had also received some calls.

“One reason decals are put on the back door windows is because they are higher and the back

In a recent survey less than 100,000 of the responde

windows don’t roll all the way down so they are visible,” he said. “In addition he said officials didn’t want to put decals on the painted surfaces of the vehicles.

He said when the vehicles are sold removing the decals or stickers lowers the value of the vehicles.

Woitas said residents would like to see decals on the doors because that is where people look when they want to know who owns it.

He added there were no unit numbers on many of the county vehicles.

He said some of the vehicles couldn’t take magnetic signs because door panels are aluminum.

Reeve David Diduck asked why people wanted to see decals on the vehicles.

and Members’ Forum, as well as local activities across seven provinces.  Participants will gain critical skills in agricultural innovation, sustainability, leadership, and wellbeing – experiences that build a stronger future for Canadian agriculture.

This impact builds on compelling evidence from 4-H Canada’s recent alumni survey. At least eight-in-ten alumni reported that 4-H helped them develop skills including public speaking, leadership, teamwork, self-confidence, meeting management, and a sense of responsibility.

Woitas said other municipalities identified their vehicles with 18 inch decals.

“I’m not sure what the issue is when County vehicles have to be identified to the ratepayers,” said Diduck.

Woitas argued the first place people look when they see a strange vehicle is the door and he felt the  County should identify all of them.

Woitas argued the County keeps their vehicles for a long time and they should be identified so people know their tax dollars are at work.

Woitas made a motion to have decals placed on county vehicle doors to improve visibility.

His motion was defeated by council.

“Because if people see unmarked vehicles driving around our rural areas, they think farms are being cased for potential robbery,” replied Woitas.

of adults 18+ living in communities of population on the prairies, the majority nts across all measured sectors said

ADS FO SERVICES

Lamont County urges action from Alberta government on dangerous highway

BY JANA SEMENIUIK

Lamont County council unanimously approved a motion, at their Aug. 12 council meeting, to send a letter to Alberta Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen urging safety measures on highway 16 and 855.

Deputy Reeve Daniel Warawa made the motion, requesting expedition of the Province’s plan for the intersections’ improvement as well as introducing a number of immediate safety measures in the meantime.

“Over the past 20 some years I have been on council, there have been several accidents at that intersection,” said Warawa. “My recommendation is asking them to speed up the overpass for highway 16 and 855.”

Warawa’s motion also requested that the letter include not only to expedite plans for the improvement, but also to install signage warning of dangerous intersection ahead, introduce a speed limit of 80 kilometers at the intersection, install traffic lights until the improvements are made, and increase RCMP traffic enforcement.

Additionally, Warawa directed the letter be sent not only to Minister Dreeshen’s office but also Premiere Danielle Smith, the Minister of Public Safety Mike Ellis, MLA Jackie ArmstrongHomeniuk, Yellowhead Highway Association and the Vegreville RCMP.

Reeve David Diduck wondered aloud if traffic lights are ever installed at major intersections on a major highway.

Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky said it’s been done in the past.

“It has been used in circumstances where there are fatalities and where the time required to justify building an

overpass is lengthy,” he said, citing examples such as highway 825 between Gibbons and Redwater.

Currently, the intersection at highway 16 and 855 has a flashing red light stop sign in addition to rumble strips leading up to it.

According to RCMP Cpl. Troy Savinkoff, 13 collisions have occurred at the intersection since 2022 with four of them fatal.

So far in 2025, there have been three collisions with two fatalities.

Minister Dreeshen’s office confirmed by email that a functional planning study was recently completed for the intersection and will help determine what improvements are needed, including the need for an interchange. As part of the process, a public information session was also held in Mundare on Dec. 4.

Through Minister Dreeshen’s press secretary, Husam Khalo, Dreeshen spoke against speed limits and lights being installed at the intersection as he believes it will increase the traffic risk for drivers.

“Installing traffic lights at this location is not recommended due to the high speed and rural nature of the highway, which can create new safety risks for drivers approaching at highway speeds,” he said.

“Similarly, speed limits are set based on engineering assessments to ensure safe travel while maintaining traffic flow on this critical provincial corridor.

“That said, we are continuing to monitor traffic volumes and collision data at this location to ensure it remains safe for all users.”

Khalo also confirmed that the first updates to improvement plans for the intersection could be seen in spring for the 2026 budget subject to approval.

- The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, August 20, 2025

Reminders

and Other Items of Interest

Weed Wednesday – REMINDERS of noxious or invasive weeds and control. See Lamont County Facebook and X posters each week. Visit: lamontcounty.ca/weeds for a full list of weeds that are commonly identified in the region. This week’s featured invasive weed is White Cockle. If you find it, report it! Learn all about it at: abinvasives.ca/fact-sheet/white-cockle/ Lamont Health Care REUNION event and invitation – (Coworkers, old friends from between 1980-2000 from the Archer Memorial Hospital, Lamont Auxiliary Hospital and Nursing Home.) September 20 at the Lamont Curling Club. Contact Denise W. for tickets and more details: drwarawa@mcsnet.ca or 780-232-1452. Celebrate, reminisce and memorialize!

Alberta Day is September 1 (the day Alberta became a province). There are a number of local events commemorating this (including in Bruderheim, Fort Saskatchewan and Edmonton) - alberta.ca/alberta-day

Labour Day – Reminder, Lamont County buildings are closed for the September 1 statutory holiday. Grazing School for Women Workshop: September 10-11 at Ardmore Community Hall. Register at eventbrite.ca/e/the-original-grazing-schoolfor-women-tickets-1564015214609?aff=oddtdtcreator and on Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554913993741

Intermunicipal Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (ISDAB) – Call for members-at-large. Apply before September 30 to be a public member of the ISADAB to be part of local governance and to assist with appeal hearings for the municipalities within Lamont County and the County of Minburn.

Shelterbelt Planning & Fall Tree Care Workshop: September 10 at Wye Community Hall – 780-464-8080 or Strathcona.ca/falltreecare

Thanks to everyone who completed and/or were called for the annual service level engagement survey. Results are presented Aug. 26.

Join the Ukrainian-Canadian Congress – Alberta Provincial Council, for Ukrainian Day on Sunday, August 24 at the Alberta Legislature Grounds in Edmonton (new location this year due to the fire and recovery at Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village). See:uccab.ca/programs/ Ukrainian-day. There will be food, drinks, performances, concerts, displays and a lot of entertainment.

Ukrainian Day 2025 – Ab. Leg. Grounds: “United by Roots and Spirit” Recent News Posts (lamontcounty.ca/news)

Scholarship Opportunity - AAAF Bursary (Sept. 1 deadline) (July 29)

Temporary Road Closures (August 12)

Last Chance - Seven Extra Spaces for Reeve's Charity Golf Tournament (Deadline is FRIDAY Aug. 15)

Confirm you are registered to vote in the 2025 Municipal Election at voterlink.ab.ca

Community Services: Serving Lamont County, Lamont, Bruderheim, Mundare, Andrew & Chipman ( scan the QR code below for info.)

(VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming for full posters, dates, contact information & registration info or call 780-8952233 for info./registration). Current CALC, FCSS & KFRN and seniors’ activities include:

1. FCSS: Parents and Tots is looking for parent volunteers to assist with its programs. Contact Community Services for more information or to sign up to assist. 2. Community Awareness Nights – in September (see the poster above).

3. Seniors’ Coffee: 10-11 a.m. (Wed.) in Andrew, & (Thurs.) and in Mundare. Join FCSS for coffee, conversation, snacks, & assistance with senior-related supports. Seniors Coffee is in St. Michael (Thurs.) from 10 a.m. to noon. See Lamont County’s calendar for local community events, public meetings & other important dates lamontcounty.ca/eventscalendar

To access current COMMUNITY

REGULAR COUNCIL AND Agricultural Service Board (ASB) Meetings

The public is welcome to attend any scheduled meeting in person or virtually). Meetings start at 9 a.m. in Council Chambers/Lamont County Admin. Bldg. (unless otherwise noted).

Next Regular Council Meeting: Tuesday, August 26 | Next ASB meeting: Wed., Oct. 8 (Postponed) lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes | lamontcounty.ca/agendas-minutes-asb

Please Note – inFocus is also available for viewing online at: lamontcounty.ca/communications (for those wanting to view the weekly submission as full-sized PDF and to access hyperlinks).