July 2 Lamont Leader

More rain causes flooding, saturated fields, sink holes and road closures in Lamont County area

BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG

A growing sinkhole was reported in the southbound lane of the highway near the Chipman gas station over the weekend, adding to growing concerns about road conditions across the area following weeks of heavy rainfall.

A photo shared by a local resident shows a hole opening through the pavement, with cracks spreading around the damaged section of roadway.

Motorists were urged to use caution when travelling through the area and to watch for changing road conditions.

The cause and extent of the damage has not yet been confirmed. Recent heavy rains have contributed to flooding, drainage issues, and erosion concerns throughout Lamont County.

days,” reports Lamont County Communications through Public Works Director Darby Dietz, “Lamont County has responded to over 30 locations where water has crested over the adjacent road.

“Depending on the location, we have

Highway 15 at 50th Street in Chipman was closed until further notice due to a road washout.

Motorists are asked to use the following detour: Highway 834 north of Highway 16.

Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area, if possible, allow extra travel time, and follow all posted detour signage.

The report comes as Highway 15 outside of Lamont remains closed due to ongoing water-related road issues.

The closure continues to impact travel in the area as crews work to assess and address damage.

Residents are reminded to never attempt to drive through flooded roadways, as conditions can change quickly and road surfaces may be unsafe.

“As a result of the extensive rainfall we have received over the last 10

had to either pump water or remove culvert blockages. The majority of the locations will require only minor regravelling, however there are a handful of locations that will require replacement of the existing culverts and re-gravelling.”

“Of note,” said Dietz, “one location east of St. Michael will require pumping of water for at least a week and another location southeast of Chipman required the County to construct a temporary bridge over washed out culverts to allow adjacent residents to be able to access their homes.”

County Update: Due to heavy rainfall, following road closures are in effect as of June 29, 2026, 3:23 p.m.

Lamont Leader reports the following was current Tuesday am. Check Lamont County website that these are current after publication.

Recently Opened

• TWP RD 542 between SEC HWY 834 and RGE RD 185

• RGE RD 184 from TWP RD 540 to

TWP RD 542 is open (proceed with caution)

• RGE RD 183 between TWP RD 560 and TWP RD 562

Use Caution

• TWP RD 562 between RGE RD 171 and RGE RD 172

Strathcona County, which is currently managing a series of road impacts caused by localized flooding and elevated water levels across the region.

“As of Monday, over 25 roads remain closed, including key routes such as 17th Street (between Baseline Road and Petroleum Way) and 34 Street (south of 84 Avenue). We anticipate these will be temporary closures due to high water levels,” reports Strathcona.

New Closures

• TWP RD 550 Between RGE RD 202 and RGE RD 195 (SEC HWY 831)

• RGE RD 202 Between TWP RD 550 and TWP RD 552

• RGE RD 174 from Hwy 45 to TWP RD 572

Still Closed

• TWP RD 562 between RGE RD 181 and RGE RD 182

• RGE RD 180 between TWP RD 562 and TWP RD 562A

• RGE RD 181 between TWP RD 562 and TWP RD 564

• RGE RD 162 North of TWP RD 584 (dead end)

• TWP RD 584 between RGE RD 161 and RGE RD 160

• RGE RD 160 between TWP RD 582 and TWP RD 580

• RGE RD 160 between TWP RD 580 and TWP RD 574

• TWP RD 552 between SEC HWY 831 and HWY 15

• RR 180 between Hwy 45 and Twp 564

The problem persists in neighbouring

“While Clover Bar Road experienced a temporary closure under the Highway 16 overpass on Saturday, it has since reopened.

“In the rural area, high water in creeks and ditches has contributed to several closures. Range Road 232, north of Township Road 534 at Old Man Creek, was closed last week after erosion damaged the bridge culvert. The County is monitoring the location closely, and a re‑opening date remains unknown.

“Additional rainfall over the weekend also led to a washout on Township Road 534 between Range Road 231 and Highway 21, where high water levels caused the bridge culvert to fail and resulted in a collapse of the roadway. This location will remain closed while crews assess the full extent of the damage and determine repair requirements.

“Crews continue to monitor conditions closely. Roads will be reopened gradually as water levels recede and each location is inspected to ensure it is safe for public use. Many stormwater facilities remain at elevated levels, and with additional rainfall expected throughout the week, recovery will take time.”

Chipman Canada Day celebrations postponed due to wet conditions

BY GRANT JOHNSON

Canada Day celebrations in the Village of Chipman have been postponed as persistent rain and high water levels have left the community’s ag grounds too saturated to safely host the event.

Organizers made the decision to delay festivities, including the annual parade and planned activities, after assessing the condition of the grounds, which are currently unable to handle vehicle or foot traffic without risk of damage.

The celebration has been rescheduled for August 2, when organizers hope drier weather will allow the full lineup of events to go ahead as planned. Organizers say the postponement will allow them to deliver the same experience later in the

Town of Lamont launches Yard Beautification Awards to celebrate community pride

BY MELISSA

MACINTOSH-YOUNG

The Town of Lamont is encouraging residents to show off their creativity and community spirit with the launch of its Yard Beautification Awards.

summer without compromising safety or the condition of the grounds.

Residents are encouraged to mark the new date and watch for fur-

ther details as the rescheduled celebration approaches.

Three awards will be presented: Most Improved Yard, Best Yard and Most Colourful Yard.

The Town hopes the awards will inspire residents to add a little extra beauty to their yards while celebrating the efforts of those who help make Lamont a great place to live.

The initiative aims to recognize residents who take pride in enhancing their properties and helping create a more welcoming and beautiful community.

Winners will be announced and recognized during Picnic in the Park on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Hillside Park from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Residents are encouraged to take pride in their outdoor spaces and participate in helping showcase the beauty of the community.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Quest Disposal & Recycling Inc. is a locally owned and operated waste management company serving Vegreville and the surrounding area. We are currently seeking a motivated and dependable Heavy Duty Mechanic to join our Vegreville location.

The successful candidate will be responsible for diagnosing, troubleshooting, maintaining, and repairing a wide variety of trucks and heavy equipment in a fast-paced environment. We are also open to considering Apprentice Mechanics and Automotive Mechanics who possess strong mechanical aptitude, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. Training and mentorship will be provided.

Why join Quest? Year-round, stable employment, competitive wages, civerse and challenging work environment, supportive and team-oriented workplace, opportunities for training and career development.

Please submit your resume to: jen@questdisposal.ca

Opinion

Despite challenges, News Media in Canada remains a massive economic driver

Meanwhile governments and brands continue to spend their budget with American digital giants

BY ERIC ANDERSON

Let’s talk news by the numbers. News Media Canada released a presentation this spring that put into perspective the impact that news media still has in Canada.

Among the highlights, I learned 71 per cent of Canadians follow news closely, consuming on average 6.5 articles per day.

Twenty-two per cent of Canadians consider themselves news junkies, spending a great deal of their day reading articles from multiple sources, in multiple mediums.

Eighty-six per cent of Canadians will read newspapers in some format (print and online). This is actually a five per cent jump from the year before.

In a country of 41 million people, almost 24 million newspapers are distributed across Canada each week in multiple languages. Just under 10 million of those are hyper-local community weeklies such as ours. That represents a significant majority of rural Canadians who still get and read their local paper every week. Meanwhile, nearly 15 million dailies are still being distributed and read across the country. Even urbanites haven’t given up on the medium.

Canadians also trust newspapers, relying on the print/eedition over TV, radio, and magazines in traditional format. Digitally, they also trust news media websites over Google, Youtube, and significantly more than the likes of Facebook, X or TikTok.

Canada’s news media sector is an economic Goliath, contributing $22.6 billion annually.

It directly employs 137,600 people nationwide. That’s more than auto manufacturing, mining, or telecom!

Canadian newspapers alone spend tens, if not hundreds of millions with Canada Post, Canadian printing plants, the Canadian pulp industry, the auto sector, fuel suppliers, trucking companies, computer technology dealers - just to name a few.

Despite the economic benefits I’ve just described, you’ll never guess what the federal government spent on advertising with print media last year (fiscal ’24-’25) out of their $78.15 million total declared ad spend.

$222,000. That’s not a typo.

CONTINUED

Traditional media still received $26.63 million in total, although $8.34 million of that went to ‘out-of-home’ formats like billboards, not a significant contributor to the news media sector.

Digital media on the other hand received $40.57 million, with its largest spend being on display programmatic and non-programmatic (think Google Ads) while $7.55 million (34 times the print spend) was with social media (think Facebook, Youtube, LinkedIn).

What’s wrong with this picture?

For starters, they’re all American.

Yes, the majority of Canada’s federal ad spend is with American companies.

A pillar of our economy and democracy is being bled out in favour of cheap click ads, annoying Youtube pre-rolls, and sponsored social media posts that are swiftly scrolled past, usually accompanied by an audible grunt.

It gets worse.

“For every $100 a brand spends on advertising, $74 immediately leaves Canada,” says Sarah Thompson of Canadian Media Means Business, an industry association that measures the economic value of Canadian media.

In fact, CMMB estimates as much as 94 per cent of the total digital ad spend in Canada completely surpassed the nation’s economic ecosystem. One click and the money went straight out.

All this while 1,000 news jobs vanished last year - 11,000 since 2019.

Has Canada lost the plot?

“Shop Local.”

“Buy Canadian.”

“Elbows Up.”

Oh, except when it comes to media, I guess.

I grew up in a small town, and when I entered the business world, I was quickly introduced to the Local 101 flow chart.

never return.

That’s what’s happening to the news media business in Canada.

The leaders we elect to know better have essentially become Person 6.

To be clear, this isn’t a call for governments and brands to spend more.

It’s about making the current spend more equitable, and more fiscally and economically responsible.

Canadians agree.

A study conducted for News Media Canada shows that 68 per cent of people across the nation think that governments should adopt a “Buy Canadian” approach and commit a fair percentage of advertising to Canadian-owned media.

“A 25 per cent advertising set-aside for news, done right, can ensure the Government of Canada reaches the 86 per cent of Canadians who engage with newspaper content each week in a brand safe environment,” says Paul Deegan, President and CEO of NMC.

It’s not all bad. One province gives us hope: Ontario.

In 2024, the Province of Ontario directed that the largest four government agencies allocate a minimum of 25 per cent of their annual spend with Ontario publishers. The government made a similar commitment with its own direct ad spending. This incredible commitment to keeping media strong “has made a big difference to Ontario’s community newspaper publishers over the past year-and-a-half,” said Gordon Cameron, Executive Director of the Ontario Community Newspapers Association.

That also means it has helped grow the economy at large.

It is estimated by CMMB that every $1 million invested in Canadian-owned media creates 8.23 local jobs and adds $1 million back to our GDP.

You don’t have to be an economist to see why this works, and why we need a stronger commitment from all levels of government to Buy Canadian.

A whopping 0.284 per cent of their total dollars spent advertising various notices and programs, was with a medium that reaches 60 per cent of Canadians every week in print alone, is trusted by 66 per cent (highest of any media), and is consumed in some format by 86 per cent of Canadians overall.

In order for our little ecosystems to work, Person 1 gives money to Person 2. Person 2 gives money to Person 3. Person 3 gives money to Person 4. Person 4 gives money to Person 1. Round and round it goes. By supporting within your community, you keep money in your community. It’s not a flawless system, returns can diminish, but here’s the alternative. Person 6 takes money from Person 5. Person 6 spends it all in another country. The cycle is broken. That money will

Eric Anderson Vice-President,

Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association

Senior Vice President, Caribou Publishing (operating four family-owned Canadian newspapers in east central Alberta)

BY HAZEL ANAKA

I find myself sitting here Sunday evening, the night after Ash and Hilary’s wedding, wondering why I didn’t tell Lamont Leader publisher, Kerry Anderson that I won’t have a column this week. It may have been some optimistic hope that I’d be fine and excited by a ready topic and loads of energy. Or, more likely, I simply hadn’t thought that far ahead and anticipated needing an ‘out.’

So, here I am, exhausted and in pain, yawning and wondering how short a written piece can be and still be called a column.

Loyal readers of this space know I call a spade a spade and never put lipstick on a pig. I don’t blow smoke or stretch the truth. If it’s good, I say so; if it’s not, I say that too.

To all the parents of unmarried kids out there,

FROM WHERE I SIT: Beautiful New Memories

can I just say there’s something to be said for elopement or at the very least marrying your kid off when they’re really young? A younger bride or groom naturally has younger parents, who presumably have more stamina and energy than older parents with a laundry list of ailments big and small.

The weeks of prep leading up the wedding were tough but the work was spread over many hours and shorter days. There is simply no shortening the ‘day before’ of venue move in and decorating.

The ‘day of’ is even longer; we didn’t leave the place until about 2:30 am. Mind you, with the help of a few people, we made a huge dent in the teardown which would normally happen the ‘day after.’

Between the four parents, we are over 300 years of age and I think it’s fair to say, we felt nearly every one of those years. The unforgiving concrete floor in this industrial style venue is hard on anyone’s body. Collectively, we suffered from sciatica, swollen legs, heel spurs, back pain, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis,

and kidney stones. But other than that, we were a-okay!

Marriage is one of the biggest life moments any person will experience. A cousin of Roy’s once said, “It doesn’t cost a lot to make a cheap wedding.” Most of us aspire to more. We want the celebration to match the importance of the event; to honour the happy couple; to give guests a memorable experience. The only way we seem to know how to do things is through attention to detail. When a mature couple marries their opinions and tastes are established and welldefined.

The wedding and reception were a huge success by all accounts. I’m convinced that adrenalin kept us going beyond the point of pain and exhaustion; you know, the whole concept of the show must go on. From the ceremony I officiated to the couple’s personal vows; from the wonderful Ukrainian meal to the huge bar selection, no detail was skipped. The army of basic service providers --caterers, two photographers, two videographers, two bartenders, DJ were all exceptional. The kids hired

Lamont and Area

LAMONT UNITED CHURCH 5306 - 51 Ave., Lamont, AB 780-895-2145 SUNDAYSERVICES 10:30 AM

a caricature artist who was kept busy most of the night capturing the likenesses of any and all guests willing to sit for their portrait. Guests were treated to an ice cream voucher plus cookie, and hand lettered wooden heart and place card done by yours truly. Each guest/couple had a combination receiving line welcome by the bride and groom and professional photo taken. A new-format Polaroid camera at the welcome table allowed for small, instant photos to be added to a guest book along with messages from the guests. A display of the hand-made wedding journal I made plus wedding photos of their grandparents and parents made for a tasteful display. Hilary’s Ukrainian ancestry was celebrated with the meal, a korovai (wedding bread) gifted by a school friend, and a soloist’s Lord’s Prayer and traditional “Many Years.”. Heck, there was even one polka played!

The love and respect Hilary and Ash showed their families and guests was reflected right back at them. The makeup of the crowd looked like it

could have been a United Nations delegate meeting with many ethnicities and colours represented. Most of the friendships are decades long in length. Guests from across Canada, the US and even the UK added to the mix.

Hilary treated me to a hair and makeup session from Edmonton’s toprated makeup artist. Janna has traveled the globe bringing her talent to wedding parties and photo shoots. Heck, it was my first time wearing false eyelashes! Not much need for them down on the farm.

The unrelenting rain and voracious mosquitos meant a change of ceremony location from their backyard to the reception site and created additional pressure as the room needed to be flipped. Gertie was an important addition to the ceremony until being swept off home by her favourite dog-sitter. As grueling as the past few days have been, the results were worth it. Friends and family helped usher these two wonderful people into their new life as husband and wife. Beautiful new memories were made; what more can anyone ask, from where I sit.

From the files of the Lamont Leader

Everyone Welcome! AA Meetings Thursdays at 8:00 pm Bruderheim Community Church 4904 Queen Street 780-796-3775

Local blueliner Keaton Verhoeff snapped

BY GRANT JOHNSON

Fort Saskatchewan

product Keaton Verhoeff has officially taken the next step toward NHL stardom.

The towering defenceman was selected ninth overall by the San Jose Sharks in the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft, capping off a meteoric rise for one of Alberta’s top young hockey talents.

up in the first round

season with the University of North Dakota, where he continued to prove he can compete against older, stronger

At just 18 years old, Verhoeff has already built a reputation as a dynamic, two-way blueliner with size, skill and a heavy shot.

Standing 6-foot-4 and over 200 pounds, the Fort Saskatchewan native has been on scouts’ radar for years and entered the draft ranked among the top North American skaters.

Verhoeff spent the past

competition while contributing offensively from the back end.

His ability to move the puck, quarterback a power play and log big minutes made him one of the most sought-after defencemen in the draft class.

The Sharks wasted no time adding that talent to their system.

Already holding an

Skyhawks costs prohibitive to

BY JOHN MATHER Bruderheim Councillor

Luis Diaz suggested the Town consider inviting the Canadian Forces Skyhawks parachuting team to visit Bruderheim in conjunction with the Model T races or other events.

He suggested there were grants available which could be applied for to assist financially in bringing the group to Bruderheim.

Chief Administrative Officer Jana Semeniuk told council administration had looked into the costs of bringing the organization to the community when it had first been broached.

“It would cost between $15,000 and $20,000 to bring them in,” she reported to council June 17. “Plus we’d have to be responsible for several other things like their drop zone clearance, they need a golf cart to haul their equipment around the site, their hotel rooms, and we have to provide transportation as well,” she said.

After seeing a shocked

early pick in the draft, San Jose doubled down on building its future, calling Verhoeff’s name with the ninth selection as part of a clear commitment to strengthening its blue line.

For Verhoeff, the moment marks the realization of a lifelong goal and the beginning of a new chapter. From minor hockey in Alberta to international competition with Team Canada, his path has been defined by steady progression and biggame experience.

Now, he joins an NHL organization looking to turn the page and build around young, high-end talent.

And if his trajectory continues, Keaton Verhoeff may not just be another first-round pick. He could be a cornerstone.

Bruderheim

look on the councillor’s faces she continued.

“The costs are enormous,” she said. “But if it is something council would like us to look into further there could be fundraising done and it could be planned as an event not necessarily within a year but maybe in two years.

“It’s something you could long term plan for

and make a major event.”

Councillor Diaz replied, “That sort of changes things …. the costs are prohibitive.”

Mayor Ron Ewasiuk asked if council just wanted to pass a motion accepting the discussion as information?

Diaz moved it be received as information and it was carried.

The yard site has has a very good barn, 64 x 30, an excellent 40x60 heated straight-wall shop with concrete floor, and good working corrals with an excellent well. The house is presently being lived in but needs some upgrades.

Auction opens on July 6 - Closing on July 8,

Bruderheim’s Urban Hen Program set to become permanent with proposed bylaw changes

BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG

The Town of Bruderheim’s Urban Hen Program could soon move from a pilot project to a permanent program as council considers adopting a new Urban Hen Bylaw.

The Urban Hen Pilot Program was introduced under Bylaw 04-2024 to measure community interest and determine whether the municipality could successfully support backyard hen keeping within Town limits.

Administration is now recommending that the program transition into a standard operational program through the adoption of Urban Hen Bylaw 15-2026.

The proposed bylaw would remove the “pilot” designation and establish permanent regulations for residents who want to keep hens in Bruderheim. The changes would also update internal forms and ensure the program continues to meet legislative requirements.

One of the biggest changes proposed is the licensing structure. Under the pilot program, residents paid an annual $75 fee. The new bylaw would replace that with a one-time $35 licence fee for urban hen keepers, based on feedback received from residents.

Urban hen keeping has become increasingly popular in communities across Canada as more residents look for ways to produce their own food, connect with backyard agriculture and enjoy the companionship of small flocks.

Many municipalities have introduced regulated backyard hen programs that allow residents to keep hens while establishing rules around responsible care, coop requirements and neighbourhood considerations.

The trend gained momentum in recent years as interest grew in local food production, sustainability and self-sufficiency. Communities that

have introduced urban hen programs have highlighted benefits such as access to fresh eggs, educational opportunities for families and a stronger connection to where food comes from.

Under Bruderheim’s proposed changes, the goal is to maintain a structured approach that supports residents interested in keeping hens while ensuring clear guidelines are in place.

Council will consider readings of Urban Hen Bylaw 15-2026 at its upcoming regular meeting.

The options before council include giving first and second readings, proceeding to third and final reading, or approving the bylaw through the required stages.

If approved, the new bylaw would mark the transition of Bruderheim’s urban hen program from a trial initiative into a permanent opportunity for residents interested in backyard hen keeping.

$16,000 in prize money, fiddles and dancing at the Wild Rose Old Time Fiddle Festival

BY GRANT JOHNSON

More than $16,000 in prize money is on the line as the Wild Rose Old Time Fiddle Festival returns July 16 to 19, 2026, promising four days of high energy music, dancing and top tier competition.

Hosted by the Wild Rose Old Time Fiddlers Association, the 42nd annual festival will take place at the Dow Centennial Centre in Fort Saskatchewan and the Moyer Recreation Centre in Josephburg. The event also features the Grand North American Old Time Fiddle Championship, drawing some of the best players from across Alberta and beyond.

The festival is partly funded through the Government of Alberta’s Community Initiatives Program Project-Based Grant, supporting a long running event that brings music into communities

year round through lessons, jam sessions and performances.

Things get rolling Thursday and Friday with open jam sessions at the Comfort Inn, leading into a lively old time country barn dance Friday night at the Moyer Centre.

Saturday is packed with action, including the main fiddle contest, a judges performance and a youth workshop at the Dow Centre. The evening wraps up with a banquet and old time family dance. Sunday continues the competition, adds a Cheremosh Ukrainian dance performance and closes with one final jam session nearby.

This year’s judges and performers include Patti Kusturok, Jarred Allbright, Shamma Sabir and Lucas Welsh.

Fiddlers of all ages and skill levels are welcome, with categories ranging from young beginners to

seasoned championship competitors. Specialty events like twin fiddling, traditional step rhythm and novelty classes add extra flair.

“As a former competitor at this amazing fiddle festival, I encourage everyone to take in this amazing indoor event and just Travel Alberta to discover what happens in our very own back yard,” said Lamont area fiddler Charlie Gargus, .

Alongside the competition, festivalgoers can take in a junior fiddle workshop, beginner step dance lessons, multiple jam sessions and live performances throughout the weekend.

Organizers are calling on fiddlers, dancers and spectators alike to join in for one of the region’s most lively summer events. Tickets are available at the door or online, with camping and accommodations available nearby.

POSTPONED

ARA brings science to life with STEM carnival

BY GRANT JOHNSON

Students at Andrew Rural Academy turned science into a celebration on Thursday, June 17, hosting a lively STEM Carnival filled with hands-on learning and fun.

Each grade took charge of its own carnival game, challenging classmates while also showcasing science experiments in front of the entire school.

From bubbling “elephant toothpaste” to erupting volcanoes and even so-called unbreakable bubbles, the event

highlighted creativity and curiosity across all grade levels.

The day wasn’t just about experiments. Students enjoyed a lunch together before cooling off with treats from an ice cream truck that came from Fort Saskatchewan.

In the afternoon, the excitement ramped up as students cashed in tickets, earned by winning carnival games, for a chance at the dunk tank.

Principal Terrance Prusak and several staff members took turns in the hot seat, drawing

Fire destroys Viking Auction

BY GRANT JOHNSON

A major livestock hub for producers across Lamont County has been reduced to ashes after a fire tore through the Viking Auction Market on June 19, 2026.

The blaze completely destroyed the main auction building, a key site where local ranchers regularly bring cattle to sell. Despite the scale of the fire, no people or animals were injured.

For many in the region,

the loss is significant. The Viking Auction Market has long served as a central meeting point for the cattle industry, drawing consignors and buyers from across east-central Alberta.

With the building gone, questions now turn to how upcoming sales will be handled and what the loss means for producers heading into the busy summer season.

Officials have not released a cause of the fire.

cheers and laughter as students lined up to send them splashing into the cold water.

The STEM Carnival proved to be a hit, blending education and entertainment while giving students a chance to learn by doing - and have plenty of fun along the way.

Andrew water break

BY GRANT JOHNSON

Residents in Andrew are still dealing with the fallout from a major water line break that happened June 26 near the school.

The break forced an emergency shutdown of the Village’s water system, and repairs have

taken longer than expected.

Officials warned early on that it would not be a quick fix, and that continues to be the case several days later.

Temporary, timed water service was brought in over the weekend to help resi-

dents manage, but full service has yet to be restored.

Village crews remain on site working to complete repairs and bring the system back online.

Residents are being asked to stay patient as the work continues.

I

NUMISMATTICS, OLYYMPICCOIN OLDCOINS, OLD $, GOLDCOINS, SILVERCOINS, BARS, INGOTS, JEWELRY, NUGGETS, STERLINGSILV & ENTIRE

$20/wk

CLASSIFIEDS

CARD OF THANKS

The family of Bill Gibb would like to thank all who supported us after his passing. We appreciated the meals, the flowers and the visits. We will cherish the stories and the memories that were shared.

Thank you to Drs. Hanton and Rami and the staff of the Killam Medical Clinic for the excellent care Dad received.

To all staff of Killam Long Term Care, words are inadequate to describe our gratitude. Dad was treated with kindness, compassion and dignity. During his stay we witnessed people going above and beyond to care for him and the other residents. Housekeeping, maintenance, recreation, dietary and nursing staff all took time out of very hectic days to interact with residents making their days brighter.

We are very fortunate to have such wonderful people caring for our loved ones.

COMING EVENTS

Garage Sale 4907 - 53 Ave. Viking, Alberta

July 9, 9am - 5:30pm

July 10, 9am - 5:30pm July 11, 9am - 5:30pm

Emerald VBS is coming to Killam Baptist Church, August 10-14 from 9AM-11:45AM Children ages 5-12 years are invited to join us for bible stories, crafts, games, snacks and singing. To register call 780-385-3607 26/27c

COMING EVENTS

WANT PEOPLE TO SHOW UP? REMEMBER TO ADVERTISE. CONTACT YOUR LOCAL PAPER!

Village Picnic

August 23rd

Holden Community Hall

Potluck at noon

Musical performances by the Western Thistles and Jed and the Valentine

Check them out on youtube and you will be impressed Tickets $20 including fees on villagepicnic.com

Read the book Fartknocker! Dunbar goes to Vegreville by BM Kalf available on amazon ————————————————

You can book Blanket Classified Ads and Value Ads through your local paper! Appear in over 65 different newspapers and over 300,000 homes in Alberta. Prices $299 to $699. Contact Caribou Publishing today!

FOR RENT

Large One Bedroom Suites in KILLAM. Clean and Quiet Building. Excellent Area. Available August 1st. Email: management.parkviewmanor @gmail.com Phone: 403-605-5180

25tfnc

FOR SALE

Registered Black Angus Yearling bulls for Sale. Semen tested, easy calving. Contact Roger Spady 780-879-3941 or 780-385-5941. 24/26p

Anyone looking for raspberry plants, Biran has Boyne variety @ $10 for a 1-gallon pot or $8 for the bare root. All suckers $5 depending on size. Also have 10 varieties of cherry trees available, one of each. Buyer's responsibility to dig. Romeo or Juliet $30 each, Romeo/Juliet combo $45, Carmine $40, Cupid $40, Carmine/Cupid combo $45; Jewel $40, and Crimson Passion $40. Trees are about 11 years old; dwarf cherries. Also have some perennials for sale, such as Tiger Lilies. 15 in total, potted, @ $4/each. Strawberry plants are sold out. If interested in any of the above, call Brian at 780-678-0053 for arrangements to pick up.

FOR SALE

FORAGE SEED FOR SALE:

Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Free Delivery! Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942. ————————————————

1967 Ford Galaxie 500. that is 85% finished with a rebuilt engine and some other work. Sitting for 3 years. $6,300. 587-322-1858 Holden area. TM24P

WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 300. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. Quality guaranteed. albertasprucetrees.com.

HELP WANTED

Dill’s Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is looking for a Journeyman Plumber Must reliably commute to or reside in Sedgewick, AB Please submit a resume to dillsplumbingandheating@gmail.com or call 780-384-3535 for more information 25/28C

JP's Country Daycare located in Daysland is hiring for a Level 2 ECE to join our daycare. This is currently a part time position. This position requires the dedication and experience of someone who has worked with children. Working with another Level 1 ECE in the room, but also working independently when ratio allows. This position requires taking the lead role working with 19 months - 3 year olds. Hours are 8:30am - 5:30pm - W, Th, F weekly with the opportunity to pick up more shifts. Please email jpcountrydaycare@gmail.com with your resume. This position will be open till a suitable candidate is hired. 24/27c

SERVICES

Drywall Taping/Ceiling Texturing

Experienced Killam drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job, big or small. Don't want to do it yourself? Give me a call!

Murray Cholowsky

Flagstaff Taping & Texturing Call or text at 780-385-1251

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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

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PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. 403-543-0927; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.

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Town & Country Guardian Drugs

Main Street Killam

We have: •a colour photocopier. •cold pop and fresh snacks. •a great selection of giftware, houseware, fragrances, clothing, toys, games, plush animals and more. •a big selection of greeting cards. •stationery. •seasonal gifts •vitamins, minerals, supplements •free gift wrapping •prescription service 6 days a week.

Painting

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

TRAVEL

OSOYOOS LAKESHORE VILLA: Executive villa in Osoyoos, BC, breathtaking lake views, just 3 minutes from town. Vacation in Canada's warmest destination. Or warmer weather, two luxurious 5-star resort units in Phoenix, Arizona. Doug 306-716-2671 or visit osoyooslakevilla.com

Collector paying top prices: old advertising signs, gas pumps, Red Indian, White Rose, Buffalo, Ford Dodge, GM. 1968-70 Chargers, 1970-71 Barracuda's. Running or not. 306-221-5908.

10% penalty for unpaid county taxes

BY GRANT JOHNSON

Time has run out for Lamont County residents to pay their property taxes before penalties take effect.

Tax notices were sent in early May, and payments must have been received by June 30. Any unpaid balance will now face a 10 per cent penalty with additional penalties later if taxes remain outstanding.

starting today

Property taxes fund key municipal services including road maintenance, fire protection, and community programs.

Residents who have not received their notice are advised to contact the county office. Missing a notice does not remove the responsibility to pay on time.

Tent caterpillars swarm EINP

BY JOHN MATHER

They were slithering all around Elk Island National Park last week. They being tent caterpillars.

According to Sarah Rymer, the communications spokesman for the national park, the situation is “the natural, cyclical boom of tent caterpillars.

“This boom occurs approximately every 10-12 years,” she reported in an email. “Tent caterpillars are a native species that play an important role in the ecosystem, serving as a food source for birds and other wildlife.

“We encourage visitors not to fret, as they’ll be on their way soon enough.

“The caterpillar stage of

their lifecycle typically lasts four to six weeks, until they spin cocoons and transition into moths in July.”

She added further information was available on a fact sheet available at the Natural Resources Canada web page titled Forest Tent Caterpillars.

Former Bonnyville Elementary School teacher sentenced to six years in prison for sexual offenses

BY GRANT JOHNSON

A former Bonnyville elementary school teacher has been sentenced to six years in prison after admitting to sexual offences involving minors.

Janelle Arnold, who previously taught at Duclos School in Bonnyville, pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual interference. She was handed a fouryear sentence on one count and a consecutive two-year term on the second, for a total of six years behind bars.

MINBURN COUNTY

• W4-14-51-10-SW County of Minburn 158.97 acres with 1500 sq ft bungalow, a 50’ by 140’ half heated shop and second yard with house. # 2 soil with 100 acres cultivated and 35 cultivatable acres in hay. Second yard rented for $1,000 per month. Price: $2,300,000

LAMONT COUNTY

• W4-19-54-26-NW 191073 TWP RD 545 Lamont County 158.9 acres with 140± cultivated and 10± grass with a 1960 3 bedroom 1 bath bungalow with 40’x 80’ pole shed. Price: $850,000

• W4-19-57-15-NW East Half Lamont County 78.01 acres with 45 acres ± in hay. Nice building site. Price: $265,000

• SOLD W4-19-53-12 NW North ½, W4-19-53-12 NW South ½ Lamont County 136 acres with a house and shop Price: 1,500,000

The case stems from an investigation launched in September 2024, when Bonnyville RCMP first charged Arnold with sexual assault and sexual interference. She was initially released under strict conditions by a Justice of the Peace.

The situation escalated the following month. On Oct. 26, 2024, Arnold was re-arrested in Wainwright and charged with child luring after police received a tip from a concerned family member.

RCMP said the youth

Arnold also pleaded guilty to eight counts of failing to comply with a release order.

had been communicating with an unknown female through a messaging app who was attempting to lure him and his friends to a hotel room.

Further allegations surfaced in November 2024.

Police said Arnold breached her release conditions and had contacted two youths in New Zealand through social media, sending them money and gifts. She was subsequently remanded into custody.

A publication ban remains in effect in relation to the court proceedings.