September 10 Community Press

Hardisty group seeks signatures for Charter School

Area 53 Raceway hosted the Fifth annual Steven Chapman Memorial ‘Full Send’

one of the many prizes available. See full coverage inside.

CHSPS students celebrate

Leslie Cholowsky Editor

Last Thursday marked Food Truck day at Central High Sedgewick Public School as students, parents, teachers, staff, and the community celebrated the start of the school year with some good eats.

Local food trucks were on hand to feed the crowd, as people stopped in between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Right from the start there was a fairly large crowd of around 75 people showed up to enjoy sunshine and great food.

CHSPS was a popular place last Thursday evening as the parking lot filled with food trucks offering a great variety for visitors as a welcome back to school event. ETHAN NEUFELD PHOTOS

school

Leslie Cholowsky Editor Flagstaff

County, along with other local municipalities, have been publishing a list of potential candidates who have put their names in for the upcoming municipal elections.

That list continues to grow each week as more candidates are coming forward, to where the most recent list shows multiple candidates in all divisions but two, which only have one candidate each.

Recent changes to division borders, and going from seven to five divisions has now pitted incumbent councillors Howard Shield and Larry Hiller against one another in Division four, where Lori Lindseth has also put her name in as a candidate.

In Division 2, only Alexis Ponto has come forward, and in Division 5, only Leslie Heck has come forward.

The Town of Sedgewick released its list of candidates to date on Tuesday, Sept 9, with two candidates; incumbent Ian MacEachern and James Todd Armitage.

In Daysland to date, two candidates; incumbent mayor Wayne Button has declared his intent to run for Mayor, and incumbent James (Butch) Robertson has declared his intent to run for a council position.

In Killam, incumbent Kevin Kinzer has declared his intent to run, along with Braden Busenius, Robert Steel, and Derek Kroetsch.

In Forestburg, three incumbents have declared their intent to run; Elaine Fossen, Dwayne Giroux, and Devon McNabb.

Lougheed, Hardisty, Alliance, and Heisler have not yet posted their Regis-

In Division 1, Iris Williams, Amy Jackson, and Brian Harrison have declared their intention to run. In Division 3, incumbent Melvin Thompson and Murray Hampshire have registered.

Leslie Cholowsky Editor

Primary Care Alberta has announced that a mobile mammography service will visit Hardisty this fall, from Oct. 6 to 8.

The Mobile Mammography trailer will be in the Hardisty Health Centre parking lot at 4631 47 Ave.

Screening is available at no cost for eligible individuals, but appointments are required, and can be made by calling 1-800-667-0604.

A mammogram is an xray of the breast, and regular screening mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early when treatment may work better.

“Getting screened for breast cancer saves lives.”

For women ages 45 to 74, breast cancer screening is proven to have the most benefit. Have a mammogram every two years or as decided by you and your healthcare provider.

Prepare for a mammogram by wearing a separate top and pants or skirt, and avoid wearing perfume, antiperspirant, deodorant, or body powder until after your scan.

ter of Candidates, which may indicate that they have not yet received any declarations and nominations.

The last day to file a

nomination form will be Monday, Sept. 22, in many cases before 10 a.m. or before noon.

Nomination forms are available from every mu-

nicipal office in the region, and each candidate must file an ‘Intent to Run’ as well as complete the nomination papers, which require nominating

from the municipality where the candidate intends to run.

The mobile mammography trailer is improving access to cancer screening for thousands of individuals in Alberta communities where mammograms are not readily available.

For 2025, Hardisty is the only Flagstaff County municipality on the mobile schedule.

Mammograms are considered safe and effective, and can usually find lumps two to three years before you or your doctor can feel them.

•PRENATAL:

•ADULT WEIGHT MANAGEMENT:

Tuesdays starting Sept. 16 at 1 p.m. at FFCS in Killam

Sept. 19 & 20 in Killam @ Family Resource Centre

•HOME ALONE COURSE FOR YOUTH:

Sept. 26 9-11 @ FFCS in Killam -

OPINION

Canada Post is broken beyond repair

Canada Post is broken. With billions in losses, declining relevance and taxpayer bailouts keeping it afloat, the time has come for serious reform. Germany faced the same challenge and fixed it. Canada should do the same: break the monopoly, open the market and bring the postal service into the modern era.

The numbers are staggering, and getting worse. In 2024, Canada Post posted an $841-million pre-tax deficit. This year, it’s on track to lose even more. In just the second quarter of 2025, the corporation reported a record $407-million lossits largest ever. Internal forecasts suggest the 2025 deficit will surpass last year’s and set a new record.

That’s a growing burden on taxpayers’ backs, and all it’s buying is slower service, fewer delivery days and higher stamp prices.

Other countries have faced similar breakdowns, and found better solutions. Germany, for instance, transformed its outdated public monopoly into a competitive, efficient system. Canada could follow the same path.

At the heart of Canada’s problem is a business model stuck in the past. Canada Post holds a legal monopoly over first-class mail, meaning only it can deliver regular letters. But that market has collapsed.

In 2006, Canadians sent a record 5.5 billion letters. Last year, fewer than two billion. Meanwhile, the parcel business is booming; but Canada Post’s market share has plunged from 62 per cent in 2019 to just 24 per cent in 2023. Germany’s state-run Deutsche Post saw similar declines in relevance and rising inefficiencies in the late 1980s. It tried to cope by hiking stamp prices year after year. Consumers paid more while service continued to deteriorate.

Recognizing the model was broken, Germany acted. The government opened parts of the postal market to competition and gradually privatized Deutsche Post, selling off shares over time. By 2008, its monopoly was gone. Today, the German government holds just 16.99 per cent of the company.

The results are striking. German consumers are served by nearly 400 companies offering full postal services, and more than 11,000 offering partial ones. Deutsche Post still leads in letter mail, but competitors keep it sharp. Adjusted for inflation, sending a letter in Germany now costs 10 per cent less than in 1989. In Canada, it costs nearly 50 per cent more. And Germany consistently ranks among Europe’s best in delivery speed.

There’s no reason Canada couldn’t achieve the same results if we’re willing to follow the same playbook. Ottawa could open up Canada Post to investment, allowing workers and Canadians to become shareholders. Postal employees with a stake in the company would be more motivated to root out inefficiencies, because they’d directly benefit from any savings.

At the same time, the government should eliminate Canada Post’s monopoly over letter mail. Letting new competitors enter would drive innovation, improve service and reduce prices. Consumers and small businesses would benefit most. The world has changed. Canadians no longer rely on letter mail the way they once did. But they still need reliable, affordable delivery. To meet that need - and stop pouring public money into a failing structure - Canada Post must adapt. Market reform isn’t radical. It’s long overdue.

Gabriel Giguère

Gabriel Giguère is a senior policy analyst at the Montreal Economic Institute.

Published & Distributed every week at Killam, Alberta P.O. Box 99, Sedgewick, Alberta T0B 4C0 Phone 780-385-6693

E-mail: (Advertising): production.cp@gmail.com, (News): newsroom.cp@gmail.com Funded by the

Alberta Jobs Strategy

News from the Legislature

Jackie Lovely MLA for Camrose Constituency

Finding a good job can be hard, especially for young people starting out and families trying to make ends meet. United Conservatives know that affordability is a concern right now, that’s why we’re focused on helping Albertans build the skills and experience they need to succeed.

We recently launched the Alberta Jobs Strategy. It’s a plan to help more people in Alberta find good jobs in their communities. This strategy focuses on four main goals: showing Albertans what kinds of careers are out there, helping them get ready for future jobs, making it easier for people to get hired, and helping businesses grow so they can hire even more workers.

The Alberta Jobs Strategy brings together nearly 50 programs from different parts of the government. These programs help Albertans improve their math and literacy skills, connect Indigenous people with jobs, get more women into science and technology careers, and make sure we have enough doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers for the future.

United Conservatives want to make life better for Albertans. This plan will make sure young people across the province can train for the trades they’re interested in. It’s about helping hardworking Albertans find jobs that match their skills. It also supports women, Indigenous peoples, and Albertans with disabilities – groups who often face more challenges when looking for work. The goal is to give families even more confidence so they can build a good life here.

Alberta is growing faster than any other province in Canada. More than five million people live here, and that number could reach 5.5 million by 2030. Investors are choosing to create jobs here because we have the lowest taxes of any Canadian province, the best workers, and a government committed to cutting red tape and creating opportunities. That means more jobs and more choices for Albertans.

The Alberta Jobs Strategy builds on what we’re good at today and prepares us for the economy of tomorrow. By working with schools, business, and communities, United Conservatives are making sure Alberta stays the best place to live, work, and raise family.

Let’s build Alberta’s future – one job at a time.

Jackie Lovely, MLA - Camrose Constituency #104, 4870 51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1 Tel: 780-672-0000

Email: camrose@assembly.ab.ca

99, Sedgewick, AB. T0B 4C0 or

Teachers and Province at an impasse

Leslie Cholowsky Editor

With both sides away from the negotiating table, Alberta families and students don’t have any assurances that the new school year won’t be interrupted by a teacher’s strike or lock-out.

The Alberta Teachers Association (ATA) held a vote to strike in June with a large majority in agreement, and have until early October to initiate a strike within 72 hours notice.

On Friday, Treasury Board President and Finance Minister Nate Horner said, “In a media statement last week, Alberta Teacher Association (ATA) President Jason Schilling stated, ‘talks are off until the Government shows it takes teachers’ concerns more seriously.’

“On August 26, Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) proposed a settlement that agreed to provide the hiring commitment requested by the ATA - hiring 3,000 new teachers over the course of the three school years of the agreement. TEBA’s proposal additionally included a similar compensation offer that was previously recommended by the ATA to their members.”

ATA President Jason Schilling said last week that the strike vote by teachers last June signalled a “united demand for respect, resources, and action.

“This mandate, rooted in courage and convictions, is shaping the public conversation about why one of the wealthiest provinces in the country funds its students the least.”

Schilling says without fair wages and improved conditions for teachers and students, Alberta risks driving away its most valuable educational resource; its teachers.

Schilling says the province’s proposed 12 per cent salary increase was rejected in June. He says over

the past 10 years, teacher wages have increased 5.75 per cent. “It’s getting harder to keep teachers in the profession and to attract new people to an increasingly challenging job, as teacher pay has fallen far behind inflation and the cost of living,” Schilling says.

The Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) are ready to return to the bargaining table, says Horner, who also pointed out that the province is now forecasting a $6.5 billion deficit, the first in five years. He added, “ Considering our fiscal update, making room for $750 million was not going to be easy, but we were committed to reaching a fair deal for teachers and stability for students and families.”

The ATA says wages aren’t the only thing on the table, and that teachers and the ATA “remain focused on the challenges that really matter: potential job action, chronic underfunding, flawed curriculum and assessments, regressive legislation such as

Bill 27 and the integrity of teacher credentialing.”

On Sept. 9 the ATA released a joint statement with the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees and the Health Sciences Association of Alberta that said, “We, the undersigned unions, want to make it clear to the provincial government that if they try to break these workers or strip them of their bargaining power through the use of aggressive tactics like lockouts or back-to-work orders, they won’t be just taking on the unions in question, they will be taking on all of us.”

•Bullz

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Access to low cost loans for livestock producers increases

Patricia Harcourt Staff Reporter

As a way to help grow the agricultural economy, access to the Feeder Associations Loan Guarantee Program (FALGP) is being increased for low interest financing, which is also backed by a government guarantee.

The move is designed to help livestock producers buy more animals and grow their herds by increasing the lending limit.

This is being done as Alberta producers continue to grow their reputation for their beef and the higher price it is bringing on the world stage.

“Alberta is world-renowned for its top-quality beef production, a reputation owed in part to the hard work and dedication of feeder associations, which help livestock producers get financing,” states the Aug. 27 government announcement.

“As demand for Alberta beef continues to grow internationally, leading to higher prices, locally owned feeder associations are turning to the Feeder Associations Loan Guarantee Program,” said the release.

Now, with the program having reached its limit of $150 million, the province has increased the limit to $225 million to allow this trend to continue helping to grow the rural economy.

“Alberta is a beef province and livestock is a huge part of our agricultural industry,” says Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation R.J. Sigurdson.

“Our cattle and sheep producers put food on the tables in our province and around the world,” he said.

“Increasing the limit on Alberta’s loan guarantee program will ensure thousands of producers across the province have access to the capital they need to keep producing Alberta’s world renowned beef.”

The province also says the program allows producer-run cooperatives to get competitive financing. This ensures they will have access to capital so, as beef prices rise, they can diversify their operations and grow their businesses.

Producer Dustin Lamb expressed appreciation for the increase in available funding to augment his own operation.

Village of Amisk NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: THE VILLAGE OF AMISK Province of Alberta.

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below within the period beginning on January 1, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day.

Office(s) Number of Vacancies Councillor3

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office:

Amisk Village Office 5005 - 50 St., Amisk, AB T0B 0B0

Dated at the Village of Amisk in the Province of Alberta, this 16th day of August, 2024.

Danielle Stankievech, Returning Officer

“With cattle prices as high as they are right, an increase to the program is critical,” he said. “Getting this increase will be absolutely huge. Access to capital is incredibly important and helps producers like myself to grow and thrive.

“This program was a huge part of me coming back to the farm that my family started and will be instrumental in keeping it going,” said Lamb.

Indeed, the chair of the Feeder Association of Alberta predicts positive results from this increase in available funds for producers.

George L’Heureux said the 45 feeder associations in this province have access to funding that is “critically needed to support Alberta’s livestock industry.”

He added that, “without this kind of support, our industry would be facing a dire shortfall in available lending at the local feeder associations across the

NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

LOCAL JURISDICTION: TOWN OF HARDISTY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below within the period beginning on January 1, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day.

Office(s) Vacancies Councillor5

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office: Town of Hardisty Office 4807 - 49 Street

Hardisty, Alberta T0B 1V0

Dated at the Town of Hardisty in the Province of Alberta, this 17th day of June, 2025.

Jackie Fenton, Returning Officer

NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: TOWN OF KILLAM, Province of Alberta.

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below within the period beginning on January 2, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day.

Office(s) Number of Vacancies Councillor5

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office: Town of Killam Office 4923 - 50th Street Killam, Alberta T0B 2L0

Dated at the Town of Killam in the Province of Alberta, this 25th day of August, 2025.

Kimberly Borgel, Returning Officer

province.

“The rapid escalation in the cost of livestock simply makes it unfeasible to operate at previous levels and the last thing we need is to see any pressure on overall beef numbers in the province,” said L’Heureux.

Since 1936, the program has provided farmers with capital to feed livestock using low-interest, government backed financing.

The program usually finances from 17-24 per cent of the calf crop each year, which the government says provides “a significant portion of the industry’s lending requirement.”

NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: VILLAGE OF LOUGHEED, Province Of Alberta

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is Monday, September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following officers will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below within the period beginning on January 1, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day. Nomination papers will be available at the local jurisdictional offices.

Office(s) Number of Vacancies Councillor 3

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office: Village of Lougheed 5004 50th Street, PO Box 5, Lougheed, Alberta T0B 2V0

Dated at the Village of Lougheed, in the Province of Alberta, this 3th day of September, 2025.

Richard A. Lavoie - Returning Officer

NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: TOWN OF SEDGEWICK, Province of Alberta

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is Monday, September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the Town of Sedgewick office within the period beginning on January 1, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day, September 22, 2025

Office(s) Vacancies CouncillorsFive (5)

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office: Town of Sedgewick 4818 - 47 Street Sedgewick, AlbertaT0B 4C0

Dated at the Town of Sedgewick in the Province of Alberta, this 25th day of August, 2025.

Sean Mascaluk, Returning Officer

The Returning Officer will not accept any nomination papers sent by mail, fax or email. Nomination Papers may be picked up at the Town office during regular office hours or are available online at www.sedgewick.ca.

With fall comes the start of many activities in Sedgewick

Sandra Erickson Ph: 780-384-2030 Sedgewick

email: sedgewicknews@gmail.com

School’s back in session. The Welcome Back food truck event was a great success. It was nice to see so many people out and about, meeting the teachers and checking out the classrooms. There were three food trucks, games set up, and a fantastic playlist! Thanks to all the organizers and everyone who came out to support the event!

It’s an election year in every aspect as it’s time to vote in new trustees for the school division this October. We have two people stepping up to run for Ward 4 which includes Flagstaff County: Dwight Dibben from Forestburg and Deanna Maertz from Sedgewick. Be sure to cast your vote!

There’s a Professional Development day later this month for teachers, which means no school for students. Flagstaff Family and Community Services is offering a home alone and babysitting course that day and weekend. It’s a great opportunity to have your

child build the confidence they need. Find the ad in this paper.

The Sedgewick Business Association is hosting another event this month. This time a Toys and Turkey Bingo at the Community Hall. Come out for a fun time for the entire family, see details in their ad this week.

Calling all line dancers! Holly Bovencamp is hosting another beginners class this October in Lougheed. This

is your chance! Line dancing knows no age limit. It’s great exercise and fun. Give it a try!

The Sedgewick Senior Centre wants to share some information regarding their Fall and Winter Season. Join them for an open house on Sept. 24 with coffee and treats. There will also be an opportunity to try floor curling. The senior club has games and cards every Wednesday afternoons

NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: VILLAGE OF ALLIANCE, Province of Alberta

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below between the period beginning on January 2, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day.

Office(s) Vacancies Councillor3

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office: Village of Alliance 209 Main Street West Alliance, Alberta T0B 0A0

DATED at the Village of Alliance, in the Province of Alberta, this 15th day of May, 2025.

Carmen Frank Returning Officer

NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: VILLAGE OF FORESTBURG, Province of Alberta

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is September 22, 2025, and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below within the period beginning January 1, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day (September 22, 2025).

Office(s) Number of Vacancies

CouncillorFive (5)

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office:

Forestburg Municipal Office

4902 50th Street

Forestburg, Alberta T0B 1N0

DATED AT THE Village of Forestburg in the Province of Alberta, this 2nd day of September, 2025.

Sharon Duncan Returning Officer

and a crib tournament the first Friday of every month. These events are open to all ages. The floor curling season begins in October and all seniors, regardless of their place of residency, are invited to join. If you are a first-year player you receive a free senior and floor curling mem-

bership. Please phone Larry Burden or Brian Bernard for more information.

The Sedgewick Library is holding a special contest this September. Sign up for a library card and win big! Visa gift cards and bookish prize baskets are up for grabs! Books,

movies, magic - unlock it all with your new library card.

Bowling season is just around the corner! The Sedgewick club is hosting their AGM this week. Come out and find out all you need to know about the upcoming season.

Notice of Nomination Day

Local Authorities Election Act (Section

LOCAL JURISDICTION: The Battle River School Division, PROVINCE OF ALBERTA

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is Monday, September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below within the period beginning on January 1, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day.

Office(s)Number of Ward Vacancies Public School Trustee, City of Camrose

School Trustee, Beaver County

School Trustee,

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office: Battle River School Division 4302 38 Street Camrose

DATED at the City of Camrose in the Province of Alberta, this first day of January, 2025.

Imogene Walsh Returning Officer

NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: VILLAGE OF HEISLER, Province of Alberta

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below between the period beginning on January 1, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day.

Office(s) Vacancies

Councillor3

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office:

Village of Heisler Office

128 Main Street

Heisler, Alberta T0B 2A0

DATED at the Village of Heisler, in the Province of Alberta, this 10th day of September, 2025.

Nadine Doege (Returning Officer)

NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: TOWN OF DAYSLAND, Province of Alberta

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below between the period beginning on January 1, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day.

Office(s) Vacancies

Mayor1

Councillor4

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office: Town of Daysland Municipal Office 5130 - 50 Street Daysland, Alberta T0B 1A0

DATED at the Town of Daysland, in the Province of Alberta, this 8th day of July, 2025

Lynne Jenkinson Returning Officer

RCMP Report: Checkstop at Highways 13 and 36

Killam RCMP Detachment Report for the period of Friday, Aug. 29 to Thursday, Sept. 4

Friday, Aug. 29

Numerous calls regarding a black Dodge driving dangerously in Sedgewick and Killam. Patrols done. Vehicle not located.

An abandoned vehicle was reported in Killam. The vehicle was parked on the street where the registered owner lived.

A grey Audi was reported driving around Sedgewick with no licence plate. Patrols made. Vehicle not located.

Saturday, Aug. 30

Killam Members received a call that the Subject was stranded and had no way to get back to Calgary. Member assisted the Subject in figuring out how to get home.

Killam Members set up a check stop on Highway 36 and Highway 13. Members checked approximately 30 vehicles.

Sunday, Aug. 31

Members were called out to an assault with weapons complaint. Members attended. Both parties were charged and released on conditions. Members drove one of the Subjects to stay elsewhere.

Reports of multiple people drinking on the beach in Hardisty. This had been going on for a few days. Members attended and reminded people of the rules and to dispose of their cans properly.

Monday, Sept. 1

Two blue Dodge trucks were reported driving around Hardisty at a high rate of speed and running through stop signs. The licence plate given did not match the description of the truck. Vehicles not found after patrols made.

Tuesday, Sept. 2

A quad was reported stolen from a work site. No witnesses or suspects. Investigation is ongoing.

Wednesday, Sept. 3

An abandoned vehicle was reported on Highway 855. Member contacted the Registered Owner, and he advised the vehicle had broken down and he was working on getting it towed.

Members attended a report of assault in Hardisty. Subjects known to Members and are on conditions to stay away from each other. Subject was gone when Members arrived. File is still ongoing.

A report was made in Killam of people going around a residence with flashlights at 1:30 a.m. It was reported the next morning. Members advised the Complainant to call 911 when the occurrence was happening.

Member attempted a traffic stop on a light brown caravan speeding West on Highway 13 through Sedgewick. Vehicle did not stop. The vehicle sped up and turned down Twp 442 before Member lost sight. Investigation is ongoing.

Thursday, Sept. 4

A fraud under $5,000 was reported. A fraudulent check was cashed in the

Complainant’s account. File is still under investigation.

A male was reported stumbling, not wearing shoes on Highway 53 near Forestburg. Subject looked intoxicated. Member patrolled the dispatched area. No one located matching the description.

Also reported and attended to by Killam RCMP were:

2 - 911 Act

1 - Animal Calls

2 – Assault

2 – Assist General Public

1 - Assistance to Canadian Provincial/Territorial Dept/Agency

1 - Assistance to Non-Government Canadian Agency

1 - Coroner’s Act-Sudden Death

1 – Criminal Harassment

1 – Harassing Communications

1 - Information File

2 - Mental Health Act

1 - Motor Vehicle Insurance Coverage Violations - Provincial/Territorial

4 - Moving Traffic - Intersection Related Violations - Provincial/Territorial

4 - Moving Traffic – Speeding Violations

1 - Non-Moving Traffic - Occupant Restraint/Seatbelt Violations - Provin-

cial/Territorial

6 - Other Moving Traffic ViolationsProvincial/Territorial

5 - Other Non-Moving TrafficProvincial/Territorial

1 – Sexual Assault

1 - Sexual exploitation of young person

4 - Traffic Collisions

1 - Trafficking - Schedule I: Cocaine

1 - Uttering threats against a person

2 - Wellbeing Check

Killam /Forestburg RCMP are reminding citizens that 310-RCMP (3102767) remains a fully active, province-wide phone line dedicated to handling non-emergency police matters.

Whether you need to report a suspicious person, property damage, or a minor theft, this number connects you directly to the appropriate RCMP detachment - no area code required.

The 310-RCMP line is an important tool that helps streamline the reporting process, ease pressure on 911 services, and support more efficient police responses to non-urgent incidents.

Report prepared and provided by the Killam RCMP Detachment

NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

LOCAL AUTHORITIES ELECTION ACT (SECTION 26(1)) LOCAL JURISDICTION, CAMROSE COUNTY, PROVINCE OF ALBERTA

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is Monday, September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below within the period beginning on January 1 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day. A deposit of $25.00 in cash, certified cheque, money order or debit or credit card must accompany each nomination paper. Nomination packages are available at the Camrose County Administration Office or on the County Website at www.county.camrose.ab.ca

Location of Local Jurisdiction Office: Camrose County Administration Office 3755-43 Avenue Camrose, Alberta T4V 3S8

Dated at the City of Camrose, in the Province of Alberta, this 4th day September, 2025.

Teresa Gratrix Returning Officer

Hardisty committee looking for parent signatures for new Charter School by Friday Group

also looking

Leslie Cholowsky Editor

for

letters of support from businesses and community members

Just a few weeks ago, on Wednesday, Aug. 27, the Hardisty and District Development Group hosted a town-wide meeting to gauge the interest in pursuing a charter school for the town.

The meeting was very well attended, and from that the Hardisty Community Charter School Association was formed via a second meeting, held Sept. 2.

Blake Moser, who serves as president of the new association, says that the group is working on obtaining the necessary information and approvals, putting everything in place to set up a charter school.

He says the initial meeting gave the group, “a clear consensus that our community wants to further explore and pursue the Charter School path for Hardisty.”

He says the current executive of the association will transition to fill more of a traditional school board position for the day-to-day and year-toyear operation of the charter school, similar to what a public school board will do.

Moser says there is some urgency right now to get as many parents and families as possible to come forward if they are interested and complete a Parent Declaration of interest form.

Those are available through a new social media page for Hardisty Community Charter School, and once completed can be taken in person to MacRae’s in Hardisty or emailed to: hardisty.charter@gmail.com.

However they are delivered, the committee must have them in-hand by this Friday, Sept. 13. Moser says that the association could also use letters of support from the community, whether from community members or groups, or businesses, and even municipalities in the region.

As of Monday, the Association had not received enough interest to move forward, which they were hoping to do this year to get everything in place for a September 2026 start, which means hitting some hard deadlines that are coming up fast.

The group has asked parents to not just consider those children who are presently attending school, but to also indicate interest if they have a child who will be attending the school when they are old enough, saying these numbers will be critical to show future enrollment.

The declaration forms do not require a parent’s signature, it is merely an indication for the Education minister of families interested in attending if the charter is approved. The forms are not a binding contract, parents are allowed to change their minds later.

“This is the most important step in showing that our community has the student base required to bring a school back to Hardisty.”

Some parents proposed interest in the Hardisty Charter School where they had children attending or wanting to attend the new Holden Rural Academy and felt that Hardisty would be a closer option.

Holden Rural Academy is a public charter school, approved by the Minister of Education in July 22, and offering Grades 7 to 12 learning. In 2020, the Battle River School Division voted to consolidate Holden and Ryley Schools into a single K to Grade 9 school, closing the division’s school in Holden at that time, the same time that the division closed the Allan Johnstone School in

Hardisty.

A new report issued by MEI,an independent public policy think tank with offices in Montreal, Ottawa, and Calgary, issued just last week, says that Charter Schools are driving innovation in Alberta’s school networks, and that the demand for spots in charter schools has risen, with supply of spots struggling to keep pace.

Between 2019/20 and 2024/25, enrollment in charter schools in Alberta grew by 55.3 per cent, the report said, compared to public school growth of 8.8 per cent.

The report also says, “Alberta is the only Canadian province to allow charter schools, which have greater autonomy than traditional public schools and an explicit mandate to deliver innovative, high-quality education tailored to needs not otherwise met within the system.”

Other data gathered for the report indicated that charter schools “outperform all other types of schools in Alberta,” when comparing Provincial Achievement Test results for Grades 6 and 9.

“This underscores the effectiveness of charter schools’ focused educational models and their ability to meet diverse student needs within Alberta’s public education framework.”

The report also notes that, “Charter schools are, by design, required to be innovative and to share their successes with others in the broader education community.

As part of their charter agreements, these schools must describe and demonstrate how they have created novel learning environments and how they communicate effective practices to other schools and stakeholders.

The Hardisty and District Development Group has been advocating on a number of different levels to return a school to Hardisty, stating that it is a crucial step towards growth for the community.

The success of the Holden Academy is proof that a charter school might be a viable alternative for local students, and the new Hardisty Community Charter School Association is banking that success can be repeated locally.

Fitness Challenge winner chosen

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Village of Forestburg

Proposed Bylaw 10:2025 – Amendment to the Land Use Bylaw 10:2012

In accordance with the requirements of Section 606 of the Municipal Government Act S.A. 2000, as amended, the Council of the Village of Forestburg has scheduled a Public Hearing for Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Forestburg Council Chambers, 4902 - 50 Street, Forestburg, Alberta regarding the proposed adoption of Bylaw 10:2025 – Amendment to the Land Use Bylaw 10:2012. The proposed change to the Land Use Bylaw is:

Amendment of Land Use Bylaw 10:2012

FIGURE 2

The following land is reclassi ied from M – Industrial to DC – Direct Control

Remainder Lot 1 Remainder Block 6 N.W. SEC 35 TWP 41 RGE 15 W4M Plan 982 3898 2 of 2

Persons wishing to make representation to Council on this matter are requested to advise the undersigned no later than 12:00 noon on September 16, 2025. Written submissions and those persons who have advised of their wish to speak will be heard irst, and other submissions will follow.

The proposed bylaw may be inspected at the Village of Forestburg administration of ice during regular business hours (8:30am – 4:30pm, Monday – Friday) or on our website www.forestburg.ca

For further information please contact:

Dwight Dibben, CAO

Village of Forestburg PO Box 210 4902 – 50 Street Forestburg, AB T0B 1N0

Ph: 780-582-3668

Fax: 780-582-2233

Email: cao@forestburg.ca

Leslie Cholowsky Editor

The Flagstaff Fitness Challenge is over for another summer, with local man Shawn Higginson taking home a big prize package.

To be eligible for the final prize, Higginson and the other people registered, had to become eligible for each of the six weekly prizes by recording a workout for that week.

Cary Castagna, Communications Coordinator for Flagstaff County, says there are still 209 people registered on Strava, the app used to register all activities.

In fact, he says, some of them are still recording their workouts each week, and supporting one another.

He says this year’s challenge was the best ever, and a big success.

“It’s bringing people together to stay active or get more active all summer long.”

This year brought ambassadors to the challenge, and Castagna said he thinks that brought increased awareness to the challenge, and more people to register.

Higginson won the ‘Ultimate prize pack,’ which included: Muscle & Joint Bath Salt (from HOM of Well Being in Daysland); Routine Deodorant (from HOM of Well Being in Daysland); Shower Steamer (from HOM of Well Being in Daysland); Magnesium Muscle Rub (from HOM of Well Being in Daysland); a Gift Certificate for 45 minutes of RAPID NeuroFascial Reset (from HOM of Well Being in Daysland);

Corkcicle Series - A Sport Canteen (from The Rusty Daisy Gift Co. in Daysland)’

a “Local” Throw Pillow (from The Rusty Daisy Gift Co. in Daysland); a Stanley Mug (from Linda-Lee Hahn of Olsen Hahn Accounting Ltd. in Daysland); a One-Month Membership to the Lougheed Field House (from Life Empowered Occupational Therapy); and $325 in Flagstaff Bucks (from Flagstaff County).

Castagna says he’s grateful for everyone who entered this year’s challenge, and for the generous sponsors for helping residents celebrate healthy living in the Flagstaff Region.

Public Sale of Land (Municipal Government Act)

Village of Amisk

Notice is hereby given that, under the provisions of the Municipal Government Act, the Village of Amisk will offer for sale, by public auction, at the Municipal Office, 5005-50th Street, Amisk, Alberta, on September 29, 2025, at 10 a.m., the following lands: Land Parcels

Roll NoLot Block. PlanC of

1. Any parcel of land offered for sale may be redeemed by payment of all arrears, penalties and costs by guaranteed funds at any time until the property is declared sold.

2. Each parcel of land offered for sale will be subject to a reserve bid and title will be subject to the reservations and conditions contained in the existing certificate of title.

3. The lands are being offered for sale on an “as is, where is” basis, and the municipality makes no representation and gives no warranty whatsoever as to the state of the parcel nor its suitability for any intended use by the successful bidder.

4. The auctioneer, councillors, the chief administrative officer and the designated officers and employees of the municipality must not bid or buy any parcel of land offered for sale, unless directed by the municipality to do so on behalf of the municipality.

5. The purchaser of the property will be responsible for property taxes and utilities for the current year. There will be no adjustment to the date of sale.

6. The purchaser will be required to execute a sale agreement in form and substance provided by the municipality.

7. The successful purchaser must, at the time of sale, make payment in cash, certified cheque or bank draft payable to the municipality as follows:

a. The full purchase price if it is $10,000 or less; OR

b. If the purchase price is greater than $10,000, the purchaser must provide a non-refundable deposit in the amount of $10,000 and the balance of the purchase price must be paid within 20 days of the sale.

(if the certified cheque or bank draft exceeds the final purchase price, the excess will be refunded within a reasonable time)

8. GST will be collected on all properties subject to GST.

9. The risk of the property lies with the purchaser immediately following the auction.

10. The purchaser is responsible for obtaining vacant possession.

11. The purchaser will be responsible for registration of the transfer including registration fees.

12. If no offer is received on a property or if the reserve bid is not met, the property cannot be sold at the public auction.

13. The municipality may, after the public auction, become the owner of any parcel of land that is not sold at the public auction.

14. Once the property is declared sold at public auction, the previous owner has no further right to pay the tax arrears.

Dated this 5th day of September, 2025.

Managed by: TAXervice Danielle Stankievech, Chief Administrative Officer Village of Amisk

Hardisty community welcomes back Dr. Ivares

Well hello, folks. Fall is in the air and many of us have felt the little bit of morning frost the last few days.

Our geraniums are tough and are still looking darn nice. I hope they last a few more weeks.

Plants are so costly and our summer season just seems so short. All the beautiful plants are such mood boosters and we all need to lift our spirits as we try to get the crops off and harvest our gardens.

There truly is such a taste difference in fresh garden produce versus store bought items. Not every home has space to grow a garden and like I have mentioned before, gardens are a work in progress! Happy harvest every one.

It is nice to see that Dr. Ivares’ office is back to its original space at Hardisty Hospital. Patients awaiting appointments now get to sit in what was our original operating room.

They are entertained by quizzes and informative medical information on the wall television. That is a good idea because people actually have to bend their neck and look up, not down at their crotch, as they play with their phone.

Does anyone greet the other patients as they are waiting for their appointment? Are we becoming social deadbeats? A smile and a friendly hello might quell the fears the other patient might be experiencing. Maybe they are new to town and would appreciate a friendly face? Think about it. Remember to be kind folks.

We have wonderful eateries in Hardisty. The other day I was working a bit late at the Thrift shop and at 3 p.m. my tummy was growling. Where to go at this hour?

Well, I popped over to the historical Hardisty Hotel. I had the best chili meal I have ever had. It

was such a unique chili flavour. The secret was “in the sauce.” Thanks to the hotel chef, I will be back.

The hotel is also well visited when the Bird Dog Theatre has its fabulous entertainment. After the show is over, numerous folks visit the bar for refreshments and the music often continues into the night. Only in Hardisty you say, you betcha!

There was a large meeting a few weeks ago at the town hall to see how many folks are interested in organizing a Charter School in Hardisty. At present, children that used to attend Alan

Johnston School attend a variety of different educational centres i.e. Sedgewick, Amisk, Hughenden, Irma, and home schooling.

Blake Moser led an informative meeting that piqued much interest amongst families and attendees. Now all you interested folks, we need you to complete and fill out the declaration form showing your support for a charter school.

These forms are time sensitive and need to be delivered to MacRaes Farm and Ranch business by Friday afternoon, Sept. 13. MacRae’s is at the end of main Street in Hardisty. Turn right at the

flag display and you will see the business.

Alternatively, completed forms can be emailed to Hardisty.Charter@gmail.com by Sept. 13. Electronic copies can be found on the Hardisty Community Charter School Facebook page. Many dedicated volunteers have been working tirelessly to get this project off the ground. Volunteers will need the weekend to tabulate and ensure the information reaches the authorities by Sept. 15.

We thank you all in advance for your interest,

assistance and dedication. Additionally if you know of folks willing to write supportive letters for the cause, please encourage their help. (I am sorry I do not have an address if mailing but I will ask it to be posted on Facebook.) We pray for a positive response for a local Charter School in Hardisty. We are happy to be sending our librarian to the Parkland Regional Library meeting that is coming up soon. We hope she gleans interesting ideas that we can use to make our library even

more effective and user friendly. We are always appreciative of the consultants that Parkland Regional Library sends to assist us with the running of our library.

Well, I just let the dog out for a wee pee and what runs by me but a little kitten chasing a wretched mouse, yikes! I despise those creatures. They are so quick, dirty and multiply like crazy... yuck,YUCK!

Have a wonderful week folks and happy harvest to all of you. Please call me with some news. Thanks... Ricci.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Clinic Manager/Personnel Manager

Medical Clinic

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Clinic Manager approximately 4 days per week to oversee the daily operations of the Viking Medical Clinic. This leadership role ensures the clinic runs smoothly and efficiently while upholding the highest standards of patient care, compliance, and team coordination.

The ideal candidate will bring strong organizational skills, healthcare management experience, and a proactive approach to problem-solving and team leadership. If you're passionate about healthcare, skilled in leadership, and thrive in a dynamic environment, we'd love to meet you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee all day-to-day operations to ensure smooth workflow within the clinic

• Address and solve any patient concerns as they arise

• Hiring, orientation, supervision and management of clinic staff

• Serve as a liaison between clinical staff, physicians and patients

• Handle patient concerns and resolve operational issues as they arise

• Manage clinic scheduling and logistics

Ideal Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience in healthcare or medical office management

• Excellent leadership, written, cornrnunication, and team-building skills

• Ability to lead and motivate a team confidently

• Proficient with EMR systems (e.g. MedAccess) and Microsoft Office

• Ability to multi-task and rnanage time well• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with strong attention to detail

Please email your resume and cover letter to admin@vikingmc.ca. We look forward to hearing frorn you! Application deadline is September 30, 2025.

Early September Notes from Around Alliance

The golden days of summer are behind us, and fall is waiting just around the corner. As the hot season winds down, so does the Alliance Museum.

I caught up with Dale Lambden from the museum’s board, and he shared how nice the past couple of months have been. Visitors came from across the country and as far away as Japan. There were plenty of projects to tackle, with a big focus on the electric and gas metres. The last day for the season will be Sept. 15, though showings can still be arranged by calling a board member.

Before the doors close, everyone’s invited to a Tailgate Party fundraiser for the roof on Sept. 20 complete with a pot luck, hot dogs, 50/50 draw, and a silent auction. Don’t forget to bring your own drinks and lawn chairs!

In other Alliance news, Roger and Betty Spady had a lively summer. For three weeks, family came and went - not in one big

rush, but one wonderful crew at a time.

Anne Manca’s week was filled with family. She spent time with her sister Karin McCracken and her brother Eric, who is in long-term care in Coronation. Her sons, Layne from British Columbia and Tom from Edmonton, made sure she was chauffeured around.

Betty and Dale Stoner slipped away for a little adventure, taking a road trip through Brooks and Medicine Hat.

George Funk has packed up his home in town and moved to Stettler to live with his daughter. Neighbours send him warm wishes as he settles into this next chapter!

The Valley Inn kitchen has a fresh pair of hands at work. Tarun, who once cooked on cruise ships, is now cooking here. When my fiancé Jesse and I stopped in for our weekly supper, with his grandma joining us this round, Tarun said he’s looking forward to the change. We can also expect a new menu rolling out very soon.

Sad news reached the community with the passing of Bev Bownes on Sept.

2 in Ontario. Bev, a Larson girl from Killam, was married to Doug Bownes of Galahad. A service in her memory will be held this October in Galahad.

Church services have returned, with about 22 people gathering for the first one back. Dell Wickstrom and Dale Jones led the Sunday service.

Dell has his Buick back on the road after repairs. That means his stand-in vehicle, a 2017 Hyundai Elantra, is now up for sale. As Dell joked, it’s important to have a car that “fits the wife” - Randy likes to be able to see over the steering wheel!

And, Jesse and I headed to Wetaskiwin for the weekend to celebrate the beautiful wedding of two friends, surrounded by more than 200 guests. We ended up camping near the reception grounds in a borrowed 1980 motorhome - it was so much fun! Congratulations to the newlyweds!

Now we’re counting down the days until a very special visitor arrives: my papabear, Jim McIntyre, all the way from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

Call or text me with your news!

Real Estate Auctions - Various Locations

Sales Starting September 26th & Closing September 30th, 2025

Ducks Unlimited For More Information Contact: Megan Maier: 780-608-8782

Parcel #1 - Selling the NE 13-47-18 W4M

Being 160 Acres M/L - Camrose County

Parcel #2 - Selling the NW 14-54-15 W4M

Being 160 Acres M/L - County of Two Hills

Parcel #3 - Selling the NE 11-54-15 W4M

Being 159 Acres M/L - County of Minburn

Parcel #4 - Selling the SE 11-54-15 W4M

Being 159 Acres M/L - County of Minburn

Unreserved Real Estate Auction for Dave & Brenda Stokes For More Information Call: 780-905-8045

Street Address: 5302 46th Ave, Two Hills, AB Legal: Plain 6104NY, Blk 15 Being 2.17 Acres M/L

abolson@telusplanet.net

Extreme Makeover - Youth Centre Edition taking place this month in Killam

Leslie Cholowsky Editor

Last week the FFCS Youth Centre in Killam got a makeover when Inter Pipeline sent a leadership team from Calgary to join local workers and hit the paint cans and tools to freshen things up.

FFCS Executive Director Stacey McLennan called it the Extreme Community Makeover - Youth Centre Edition, and joined in the fun.

She says Inter Pipeline donated $3,000 towards project supplies and some new items, and worked on the Youth Centre last Thursday.

McLennan says “We had two hours to paint the space and assemble new furniture. The Youth Centre was in need of fresh paint, and we made the decision to also revamp the art area space to a more tranquil area of the Centre.”

She says that Inter Pipeline’s donation allowed the Centre to coordinate the project with the freedom to tackle the big items such as painting and to also consider areas to ensure we have space for youth with varied interests to feel valued and welcome.

“The remaining work will be facilitated by youth volunteers and anyone else who may be willing to come and lend a hand.”

She says the refreshed Youth Centre will have a grand opening in the near future to show off the changes.

Unreserved Auction Sales

Sales Start September 19th

Closes September 22nd & 23rd Camrose, Bawlf, Hardisty & Strome, Alberta

Realignment Sale for Lloyd Bohme Closes September 22nd, 2025 Bawlf, Alberta

Selling:

JD 690 Excavator

Pettibone 204A AWD Loader

Hyster Wheel Packer

Cat 926E Wheel Loader

1998 Ford Louisville Truck

w/ Sliding Deck

1993 Freightliner T/A Day Cab Truck

2 - Falcan 35' T/A Pole Trailers

Trail Tech 35' Drop Deck Trailer

Royal Cargo 14' T/A Enclosed Trailer

Haulmark 20' T/A Enclosed Trailer

Mirage 20’ Pontoon Boat

Plus a Large Selection of Trucks, Passenger Vehicles, Trailers & More

For More Information Contact Lloyd: 780-686-5211

Unreserved Realignment Sale for Interprovincial Salvage Closes September 22nd, 2025 Camrose, Alberta

Selling:

1953 Massey Harris Tractor - Restored 40' Seacan Can

Landpride 6' 3 pth Blade

Custom Built 22' Roll of Deck

2014 Haulmark 18' Enclosed Trailer

2001 Roadmaster Super B Hi-Boy Trailer

2004 Doepker Super B Hi-Boy Trailer 18' T/A BP Flat Deck Trailer

Large Assortment of Steel Grating

New PSI Pressure Washer, Water Pump, 15000 W Generator, Kerosene Heater & Fuel, Stihl Leaf Blower & Chain Saws 8'4"x8'x6' Chain Link Dog Kennel

2 - Dumpsters Assorted Steel Wheels For More Information Contact Tony: 780-679-7571

Realignment Sale for Clayton & Trish Granger Closes September 23rd, 2025 Hardisty, Alberta

Selling:

Ford Jubilee 2wd Tractor

Flexicoil Trail Type Post Pounder Hesston 565T Rd Baler

IHC 470 18' Offset Disc

IHC 20' DT Cult JD 609 6' Rough Cut Mower Benchmark 2 Stroke Log Splitter SWS 16' T/A Trailer

Plus Metal Buildings & Sheds, Recreational & Camping Supplies,

Contractorswithexcess woodchipscannowdrop themoffatoursatellite sitesinGalahadandStrome. Thesewoodchipswillthen bemadeavailableforlocal

Contractors with excess wood chips can now drop them off at our satellite sites in Galahad and Strome These wood chips will then be made available for local citizens to use in their yards and gardens

Notice of Nomination Day

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: FLAGSTAFF COUNTY, Province of Alberta.

Notice is hereby given that Nomination Day is September 22, 2025 and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the location of the local jurisdiction office set out below within the period beginning on January 1, 2025 and ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day.

Office(s) Number of Vacancies

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office: Flagstaff County – Municipal Office 12435 Township Road 442 Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0

DATED at the County of Flagstaff, in the Province of Alberta, this 11th day of June 2025.

(Returning Officer)

Area 53 hosts fifth annual Steven Chapman memorial race weekend

Ethan Neufeld Student Reporter

On Sept 6. to Sept. 7,. the Area 53 Raceway just outside of Forestburg celebrated the fifth annual “Full Send” memorial race weekend for former car enthusiast, Steven Chapman.

The weekend was a huge success, with the cash donations combined with Matco’s pancake breakfast, roughly

$1,600 was raised to be donated to the Forestburg Area Food Bank and Veteran Area Food Bank.

The term “Full Send” in racing means whether you win or lose, you put 100 per cent commitment and enthusiasm into your race. This is what the late Steven Chapman lived by. He always put all of his commitment into anything and everything he did, especially racing.

The race was broken into three categories; sportsman, pro, and super-pro.

On Saturday, the winner of the sportsman bracket was Skylar Fandrich with Ryder Faulkner winning the pro category and Kolby Pedersen taking home the super-pro champion title.

For Sunday, the winner of the sportsman category was Paul Morellato.

Bobby Bell was the victor of the pro bracket, with the super-pro champion

to the finish line at insane speeds.

There was no shortage of racers either, with the entire lot being filled with different cars and trucks ready to race the entire weekend. Many people also stayed at the raceway, bringing their camping trailers to cut down on the travel time and see every part of the weekend, with great weather to accompany them both days.

Amendment walks back some provincial book bans

Leslie Cholowsky Editor

Just a few months after putting a Ministerial Order in place for school libraries, the Province’s Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides walked back some of the wording on the order this past Monday, Sept. 8.

The original order forbade any library materials with any visual or verbal explicit sexual content, that is detailed depictions of masturbation, sexual penetration, or sexual physical contact.

It was the verbal part that caused school boards, and particularly the Edmonton Public School Board, to start pulling books off the shelves, including classics like ‘The Handmaid’s Tale,’ ‘ The Color Purple,’ or Aldous Huxley’s ‘Brave New World.’

Premier Danielle Smith, called the Board’s actions “vicious compliance,” earlier this month when it complied to the actual wording of the original order, adding, “We’re not trying to remove classics of literature.”

She said the order was an attempt to remove “graphic images that young children should not be having a look at.”

As of Monday, the order has been amended to having Alberta’s school libraries ensure that materials containing any explicit a visual depiction of a sexual act are not accessible or available to children or students in a school.

The new order quietly implemented another change to the original order, one which originally allowed certain grades access to ‘non-explicit sexual content when it is developmentally appropriate.’ All the age restrictions and references to non-explicit content have been removed in the

new order.

The Ministerial Order does not apply to public libraries contained within schools, like the Killam and District Municipal Library.

The original order did, however, have a clause stating that if students had access to collections of materials in the school building or otherwise, that were not part of a school library, that a school authority staff member had to supervise student access to ensure students did not access materials that they would not otherwise be permitted to access if in a school library.

The Minister’s office later confirmed that the clause would apply to public libraries contained within a school.

However, the revised Ministerial order no longer contains that clause.

Nor do the new standards apply to learning and teaching resources authorized or approved by the Minister, or materials, in physical or electronic form, brought into the school by a child or student without the knowledge of any school authority employee.

Nicolaides said Monday, “Our goal has always been to make sure students are not exposed to visually graphic sexual material in school libraries. I am confident we can meet that goal while making the process as simple and straightforward as possible for schools and teachers.

“The revised order will ensure that classic literary works remain in school libraries, while materials with explicit visual depictions of sexual acts do not end up in the hands of children.”

The Province maintains that the updated standards will prevent misinterpretation and ensure

What are Community Builders Dinners?

BRCF hosts these events to celebrate local individuals or couples who have lived their lives with a commitment to serve their community. The goal of these special evenings is to recognize those who share the ʻgiving backʼ philosophy that is so integral to the success of the BRCF and to establish an endowment in their names that will give back to the community.

that restrictions focus specifically on materials with explicit visual depictions of sexual acts.

The Alberta NDP shadow minister for Education, Amanda Chapman, said Monday says, “These changes increase confusion for parents, schools and teachers when the issue of age-appropriate books was already being dealt with.

“Nothing today addresses the additional burden placed on teachers and school staff to catalogue books that contravene the UCP government’s gaslighting ministerial order.

“Instead of ensuring everybody understands only age-appropriate books are in schools, now the government is pitting parents against schools just because someone doesn’t like a book. “

Under the new order, students, parents, teachers, school council members, and community members can ask the school authority to review, change access to, reconsider, or remove specific school literary materials in a particular school for reasons related to the explicit visual depiction of a sexual act.

School Libraries must also now make available a list of their entire collections to the public, and this must be completed by

Jan. 5, with the new order pushing that deadline back from the original date. By Oct. 31, school boards must provide the

minister with a list of literary materials they intend to remove in order to implement the standards.

Rural leader asks province to address code of conduct void

George Lee Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Unresolved issues surround a new provincial act that eliminates council codes of conduct, the president of the association representing rural municipalities said in advance of the fall sitting of the Alberta legislature.

Kara Westerlund, a Brazeau County councillor and the president of the Rural Municipalities of Alberta, said

amendments made through Bill 50 require ongoing talks between the RMA and the government.

“There’s been some consultation, but we strongly believe that there needs to be more, especially around the dramatic changes in Bill 50 and the direction it seems to be going in,” said Westerlund, who lives in the county about 130 kilometres southwest of Edmonton

She added that the province was not necessarily wrong in ditching the old

codes of conduct. Reviews of the move among member municipalities were a “mixed bag.”

But high on the RMA list of needs from the province is the filling of a void the elimination created, Westerlund said, perhaps with an independent ombudsperson all municipalities can turn to.

Bill 50 received royal assent on May 15 as the Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendments Act 2025. Among its

amendments to three existing acts, the new law eliminates mandatory codes of conduct for municipal councillors and forbids councils from implementing their own.

It also altered the roles of chief administrative officers and other official administrators employed by municipalities. It changed rules surrounding intermunicipal relationships and updated protections for new home

Continued on Page 26

Earl (Sonny) Matthew Thomas passed away on September 5, 2025, in Red Deer Hospital at the age of 83.

Sonny was born in Killam on June 27, 1942.

Sonny was one of eight children born to Matthew and Helena Thomas.

Calvin (Joyce) Thomas, Beatrice (Bruno) Bagdan, Bernice (William) Stern, Bernedean (Eugene) Kohlman, Edward (Margaret) Thomas, Bernard (Janet) Thomas, Barbara (Donald) Dreger.

Take a moment and read Psalm 19. This Psalm explains that God has revealed himself to us. It says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”

Creation reveals a Creator. I believe in the Creator God. When I walk through this world and see everything functioning in its own way, I realize that everything

Sonny will be missed by a very near and dear friend Sharon Haselwood, and all his friends and extended family.

Sonny was predeceased by his, parents Matthew and Helena Thomas, Edward Thomas (brother), Calvin Thomas (brother), Joyce Thomas (sister-in-law), William Stern (brother inlaw), Eugene Kohlman (brother-in-law),  Grant Holte (great nephew), Mark Stern (nephew) and Beverly Holte (niece)

Sonny lived with a big heart and a love for life.…

In his younger years, he could be found on the ball diamond or the hockey rink, giving his all with his teammates.

Later, he became an avid fan of his beloved Ed-

monton Oilers, the excitement of curling, and cheering on his Toronto Blue Jays.

One of his favourites was to spend time watching rodeos, as he enjoyed cheering on the local cowboys and cowgirls. He also enjoyed the great outdoors, camping under the stars, hunting, and fishing at quiet lakes.

Sonny carried himself lightly, on the dance floor, he had the softest steps, always ready to share a song and a smile.

Although Sonny had no kids of his own, he loved all his nieces, nephews, and friends like they were his own.

Sonny’s joy, kindness, and laughter will be forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Faith: God revealed through the skies

follows rules and order. This convinces me that there has to be a God behind it all.

The Psalmist goes on about the skies, “Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge.”

Creation is declaring God’s glory!

Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Let me ask the question, how often do we

proclaim the works of God’s hands?

Sure, I proclaim God’s greatness at church, or with certain friends. We need to look at the example that creation sets, it boldly proclaims God’s works, to everyone, all the time.

Kirby Schmidt-Teigen Pastor - Daysland Alliance Church

Earl (Sonny) Matthew Thomas OBITUARIES

Forever in Our Hearts A Celebration of Life for Earl (Sonny) Thomas will be held Friday, September 12, 2025, at the Killam Community Hall at 2 p.m. A time of fellowship and refreshments will immedi-

ately follow the service. We would like to thank the hospital staff in Red Deer and Daysland for all the exceptional care. Memorial donations in memory of Sonny may be made to the Diabetes or a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements by Fee and Sons Funeral Home and Crematorium Killam Helping families and their Communities for over 100 years feeandsonsfuneralhome.com

& Forestburg

Church

Worship – 9:00 AM www.killambaptistchurch.ca www.forestburgbaptist.ca Sunday School – 9:45 AM Dave Kennedy, Lead Pastor

– 10:55 AM

PRICING

$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers 16,000 readers

CARD OF THANKS

I would like to give a big shout out to all those who were able to attend our fundraiser! An extra big thank you goes out to Iron Creek Colony, Bruce Ag Society, Viking Meats, AG Foods, Atco, Brettzky, Cindy Lefsrud and the Town of Viking. We couldn’t have ever put on this great event for one of our own that supports so many people in different ways. I would also like to thank all who helped me put this together. Stay tuned As we are going to be doing another fundraiser! This will be posted soon in the newspaper, social media and posters at our great local businesses who support this town.

Thank you again.

Jamie Buttner, organizer Skate and Burger Fundraiser

On behalf of the Olga Brissard family, we would like to thank all our friends, family, and community for attending Olga's Celebration of Life. Thank you for your kindness, your food, your flowers, calls, and cards written with comforting words. Your gestures reminded us that we are not alone in our grief and touched us deeply. Thank you to Father Miciak, Viking Funeral Services, Mary Hansen, Bob Wesley, and all who helped us honour our mother's memory with dignity and grace. We are truly grateful for your exceptional service. To Donna Brooks for the wonderful luncheon. Jenn Guhle, your eulogy shared beautiful stories and memories, it truly highlighted what a special person Olga was. To Camen O'Hara and Kyle Muhlbach for your readings. Kyle, thank you for your slide show, grandma would have loved it. Shari Gustafson, your prayer was especially meaningful. A big heartfelt thank you to all of mom's nursing coworkers that attended, Olga would have been so proud. Finally, to everyone who donated to the Viking Health Centre on Olga's behalf, Thank you. She dedicated 40 years to the Viking Hospital; she would have been grateful for your donations. To anyone we might have missed, know you compassion was appreciated by the family.

Reale, Laure, Lynette

CLASSIFIEDS

CARD OF THANKS

We would like to extend a sincere thank you to the doctors and staff of the Killam Hospital for the care and kindness shown Maxine during her stay there. Thank you to Fee & Sons for their capable handling of all the funeral arrangements. To Reverend Laureta Blondin, thank you for conducting a beautiful funeral service. Thanks to Sheila Tanton for being the organist and a huge help behind the scenes and to the Anglican Church Ladies for providing lunch. Lastly, thank you to everyone who came to the funeral, sent flowers, memorial donations, and offered their sympathies.

Sincerely, Harold and Family

Lougheed Ag Society would like to thank all of our sponsors for their help in achieving continued success in the Fair, from all of you who sponsor exhibits to those who sponsor the events, all of you are not listed but please consider this a great appreciation for your support.

Macraes Farm and Ranch Supply, Bush Bunny Customs, Sawyer Robison for tilling the ground, Soul Barn for eggs, Ness Bros, Diamond J Bakery, Poplar Grove Farms - Ricky Snethun, Spectre Systems, Iron Creek Veterinary Hospital, Battle River Implements, Sweet Pea Agriculture and many more.

COMING EVENTS

Annual General Meeting for Friends of Hardisty and District Public Library Society

Tues Sept 23, 2025 at 7:30 pm at Town of Hardisty's Library Looking for new members!

36/37c

Order Fall Potatoes and Carrots!!! East of Sedgewick, off Highway 13, turn north on RR122, then go north 3 miles.

Helen Tanton - 780-888-6800

28tfnc

———————————————— Birthday Party

Ccome and enjoy George Walz's 90th Birthday Party at the Tofield Golden Club; 5004 54 Ave, Tofield, Saturday, September 13th from 1-4 pm. No gifts.

COMING EVENTS

You're Invited to our OPEN HOUSE at Flagstaff Community Adult Learning. Tuesday, Sept 16th 11:30 AM - 2 PM including Free Lunch Main Street Killam5023 50th Street

Come and see what we do, find out about upcoming classes and meet the staff.

35/36c

SAVE THE DATE

Tofield & Area Welcome Committee presents Alberta Culture Days Friday, September 19, 2025 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Tofield Community Hall

Join us for a celebration of arts, culture, heritage, diversity, and community spirit of Tofield and Area!

TM36C

FOR RENT

Storage Unit For Rent in Killam

Inside private warehouse building behind Community Press office. Security cameras on site, building heated in winter. Upstairs units available, approx 8’ x 12’. Back alley access only.

$99/mo. with $100 damage deposit. Or pre-pay for 6 months for $495 (1 month free) or pre-pay for 1 year for $990 (2 months free).

Rental contract required. First month due at signing. Call/Leave Voicemail for Ally 780-385-6693 or stop by The Community Press office on Main Street in Killam.

FOR SALE

Pyrenees Puppies, 7 months old. Female and male. Asking $100. Call Garth at 780-688-3514. 36/38c

Great Pyrenees about 1.5 years old. 2 females and 1 male, in the Holden area. Asking $200 per dog. Call 780-688-3514

TM36P

FOR SALE

Equipment For Sale

• Zero Turn Cub Cadet Lawnmower 54" with approximately 250 hours 2 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. 33/37p ————————————————

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

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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

HELP WANTED

Lamont Vision Centre is hiring!

- Optician (licensed or student) - Receptionist

Flexible hours for both positions. Please email resume to bailee.cvc@gmail.com to apply. 34/37P ————————————————

JP’s Country Daycare located in Daysland, Alberta is looking for full-time and part-time Early Childhood Educators - ECEs. Willing to train, Government Top Up, Wage to be discussed based on experience. Resumes can be sent to jpcountrydaycare@gmail.com 36/39c

½ Section Pastureland NE 35 & NW 36-41-10-W4 located south of Hardisty in the Battle River valley at RR 101 & TWP RD 420. Fenced, cross-fenced, mix of seeded and tame grass with large dug-out, pumping system, full power on site with gravel revenue. Call Mike Golka REMAX River City 780-914-9889 MLS#’s E4447511 & E4447499 tfnc

PRICING

$20/wk for the first 35 words

45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers

16,000 readers

Looking for New Farm & Commercial Listings!

Give us a call, we’d love to sell your property!

Hill Realty Inc.

780-449-5622

nhill01@telus.net

www.hillrealty.ca

Town & Country

Guardian Drugs - 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.

CLASSIFIEDS

SERVICES

General Contractor

Red Seal Journeyman Plumber and Gasfitter. Bathroom Renos & Tile

New to the Area. 30 plus Years of Experience. Dave 403-999-8464

Medical Taxi Service

Personal Taxi Service to Edmonton and Back -$175

•Office Hours Mon-Fri 9-5

•Absolutely NO Hidden Fees

•Escort to Reception/Waiting Room

•Pick up and Drop off at your door

•Top Notch Service! •Includes up to 4 Hour Wait•Locally Owned and Operated. 587-987-7810

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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!

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

SERVICES

Painting

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

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

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 ————————————————

Be prepared for winter with GENERAC Call 587-803-3600

Crossword

SERVICES

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SENIORS SPECIAL! 10% MORE ON ALL CASH PAYOUTS. SILVER Coins, Canadian Coins, GOLD coins, chains, rings...We buy them ALL! Silver flatware, tea sets, all things silver, Canadian Mint sets. We come to the privacy of your home, no fees! Call Joy or Ted 1-825-966-4373.

WANTED

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 for Auction Dates & Details.

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CAUGHT YOU LOOKING! BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED AD TODAY!

KILLAM DENTURE CLINIC

Medical school kicks off new era of physician recruitment for northern Alberta

Jesse Boily

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

School is back in session, and a first-ofits-kind class has begun in Grande Prairie, training future physicians in the north.

The Northern Alberta Medical Program (NAMP) celebrated the first day of classes on Tuesday with its first cohort of 30 students.

“I don't know if you realize how historic this is actually going to be; this is going to transform medicine in northern Alberta,” said Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Primary and Preventive Health Services, at a ceremony before students began classes.

She said it’s the beginning of a new era of medical education and healthcare in northern Alberta.

Students will complete their first two years of the MD program at Northwestern Polytechnic’s (NWP) Health Education Centre (HEC) in the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital (GPRH).

After the first two years, students will have clerkship placements across northern Alberta and in northern communities in the Yukon and Northwest Territories.

Students will earn their MD through the University of Alberta and participate in the same training as medical students in Edmonton.

“It is an innovative approach to medical education that will help address rural physician shortages, and is one of many ways we are implementing solutions to physician shortages,” said LaGrange.

Grande Prairie resident Megan Hopkins is part of the first cohort of NAMP students.

“I was working here at the GPRH in the emergency room, I really saw the gap that

we currently have in health care, where so many of those visits could have been prevented if people had a primary care physician,” she said.

Hopkins, a pharmacist, seized the opportunity to study in her hometown, aiming to be “more hands-on” in helping her community.

“Rural is where I'm most comfortable; as a pharmacist, I practiced in both the city and rurally, so being able to practice in that setting is definitely a big deal for me.”

Twenty of the 30 students come from a rural background with the remainder from an urban centre such as Calgary or Edmonton, said NAMP Assistant Dean Richard Martin.

“One thing I've learned along the way is that you don't need to actually come from a rural space to feel like this is the work that's meaningful for you.”

Martin said he grew up in Edmonton and completed his medical schooling there. While doing his residency it was suggested he try in Whitecourt.

“It showed me very quickly that the style of work they were doing was absolutely the style of work that I wanted to do, and actually, from the time I left that experience in Whitecourt, there was no other choice in my mind for what I was going to do.”

He ended up working in Whitecourt after his schooling and then eventually moved to Grande Prairie to begin practicing.

“What the students are learning, as far as details, is really the same (as Edmonton) because being a doctor in Edmonton is really the same kind of work as being a doctor in Grande Prairie,” Martin said.

An advantage of training physicians lo-

LAND FOR SALE BY PROGRESSIVE TENDER

APPROXIMATELY 2 MILES SOUTHEAST OF AMISK

NE 23-41-8-W4 (160 acres)

120 acres of tame and native grass pasture land

NW 24 –41 -8 – W4 (160 acres)

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SW 24-41-8-W4 (160 acres)

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APPROXIMATELY 6 MILES SOUTHWEST OF AMISK East 1/2 7-41-8-W4 (320 acres)

220 acres of crop land; balance native grass and bush; excellent fall pasture

Seller makes no warranties or representations about the property’s size/measurement, condition or environmental status. Mineral rights are not included in the sale.

Purchaser must be a GST Registrant and shall be responsible for GST. No offers will be considered which are subject to financing. Bids will be considered by individual quarter section except the SE 7-41-8-W4M and NE 7-41-8-W4M will be sold as one parcel. The highest and/or any bid will not necessarily be accepted. If the successful bidder does not complete the purchase after the acceptance of the Tender, the deposit shall be forfeited. Bank drafts of unsuccessful bidders shall be returned to them.

Bidders must be approved by the Vendors no later than October 28, 2025. Progressive Tenders start 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 Bidder’s application must be accompanied by $10,000 deposit/quarter or parcel. Bidder packages can be obtained from NRHM LLP 608 – 10 St Wainwright or from Dean and Lynn Manning.

(Three additional quarters and the home quarter to be sold in the new year.)

For information on Progressive Tender contact Dean Manning at 780-856-2433 or by email at Ldmanning88@gmail.com.

cally is that they will gain a deeper understanding of what it means to work in a rural setting, interacting with patients, families and the community.

He said that during the first two years of training, students will learn in a small group and lecture format, with some contact with patients and clinical work.

While in the third and fourth year, students will be learning “directly by helping take care of patients and families, working with physicians and nurses and paramedicine across the landscape of where they are.”

He said in those final two years, the students will be found anywhere a physician can be found, including hospitals, clinics, ambulances and long-term care facilities.

The hope is that by recruiting and training locally, NAMP will retain physicians in the region.

“We definitely want that to happen, and

it is because students who learn in rural communities are more likely to stay and work in rural areas after completing their training,” said LaGrange.

She said the same concept has been successful in the education sector.

“We saw this in education. I was the education minister for K to 12 education for four years, and we saw that roughly about 70 per cent of teachers trained in rural communities actually stayed there.”

She said the province recognizes “there are physician shortages in rural and remote communities” and it's taking action with programs like NAMP.

“The arrival of the first cohort of medical students in Grande Prairie is historic, not only for medical education in Alberta, but it also serves as a powerful symbol of hope for the communities in northern Alberta,” said NWP president Vanessa Sheane.

Tractors: Stieger ST225 Bearcat 4-WD Tractor, CAH, 4 hyd, hyd. return line, Cat eng, 20 SP trans, 18.4x38 duals, 6025 hrs.; Kubota M-110

F.W.A. Tractor, CAH, 3-ph, dual hyd., dual PTO, left hand reverser, 8-SP trans c/w Quicke Q51

F.E.L. c/w Quick attach bucket & grapple, joystick controls, 2848 hrs., S/N; Bale Fork for above loader; Ford 1700 Utility Tractor, 3-ph, PTO, diesel eng, 12 SP Trans, 578 hrs, S/N 704054; JD 4020 Diesel Tractor, cab, dual PTO, dual hyd., c/w JD 46A F.E.L. c/w bucket & bale fork, S/N SNT223R094222R; MH 44 (Six) Gas Tractor, PTO

Skidsteer: Clark Bobcat 773 Skidsteer c/w smooth bucket, CH, auxilary hyd, 6578 hrs, S/N 509638946

Skidsteer Attachments (sold seperately): 60inch Tooth Skidsteer Bucket; Skidsteer Pallet Forks; 8-ft Skidsteer Snow Bucket, like new; 6-ft HD Skidsteer Rough Cut Mower Motorcycle: 1998 Harley Davidson 95 Year Series, 1340 CC, Motorbike c/w Evo engine, 4 SP trans, c/w all flairing & saddle bags, 64,424 kms, S/N 1HD1FCR48WY621411 Trailers: 1998 Timpte 48-ft Convertible Super Hopper Tandem Axle Trailer, S/N Convertible Super Hopper Tandem Axle Trailer, S/N 1TDC46623WB093199; Single Axle Trailer c/w 8ft x 10-ft steel deck, NV S/N; Single Axle Trailer c/w 8-ft x 8-ft deck, lights, NV S/N; Grizzle Rancher Special Quad Tandem Axle Trailer c/w 4ft x 6-ft box & winch Vehicles: 2010 Chrysler Challenger 2D Hard Top Car, c/w sun roof, fully powered, leather int, 244,000km, S/N 2B3CJ5DT3AH183761; 1999 Ford Super Duty F450 Heavy Duty Dually Service Truck, c/w cabinets, V Mac Air, Titon Vio Eng, auto, 133937 km, S/N 1FDXF465XEB93591; 2009 Ford Lariat F150 Crew Cab, 4x4, V-8, auto, fully powered, 306359 km, approx. 100,000 on new engine, S/N 1FTPW14V59KC86776; 1986 International Series 1900 Tandem Axle Gravel Truck, 13-sp trans, DV 550 diesel eng, roll tarp, S/N 1HTLKTVR76HA12860

Side by Side & Quad: Arctic Cat HD X700 Prowler Side by Side, 1621 km; Arctic Cat 90 DVX Kid Quad like new

Yard Equipment: JD Eztrak Z225 Zero Turn Mower c/w 48-inch deck, 107 hrs. See Picture JD D170 Hydro Riding Lawn Mower c/w 48-inch deck, 303 hrs.; 48-inch Lawn Aerator; 36-inch Lawn Sweep; 5 Pallets of Patio Bricks; Maletti 48inch 3ph Rototiller

Haying Equipment: JD 535 Round Baler c/w monitor, 540 PTO, S/N E00535X862040; Hesston 1345 Hydroswing Discbine, 1000 PTO, S/N HP56521; Tonutti V12 12-Wheel (V) Hay Rake; NH 1033 Square Bale Wagon Tillage Equipment: FarmKing C1225 16-ft Offset Disc, like new, S/N 1255 16055026; Wilrich 30-ft VS Cult. c/w mounted harrows, hyd. wings; JD 9350 30-ft Hoe Press Drill c/w factory trans; AC 22-ft Disc c/w hyd. wings; Hyd. Harrow Drawbar c/w 18 sections harrows; Linden Fully Hyd. Trailer Post Pounder

Harvest Equipment: JD 7720 Hydro SP Combine c/w belt pickup, chopper, long unloading auger & hopper topper, 4021 eng. hrs., S/N H07720X601709; 1979 Versatile 4400 18-ft Hydro SP Swather C, rubberized canvases & pick-up reels, S/N 00196; Brandt 842 PTO Grain Auger; (2) 1500 Bus. Westeel Hopper Bottom Bins; Chief Westland 5 Ring Flat Bottom Bin c/w aeration, needs floor

Miscellaneous & Tools: Beatty Windmill c/w 30ft tower See Picture; 7-ft x 8-ft Truck Deck; Approx. 20 Bales Twine; 130-gal. Tidy Tank c/w 12V pump; Kids Ferris Wheel; Pallet Jacks; Assort. Cords; Assort. Chains & Boomers; Floor Jacks; Blue Ox Tow Bar; Propane Cutting Torch; Assort. 22.5 Truck Tires, new & used; Five 3-inch x 20-ft Alum Channel; Assort. Alum Plate 1/2-inch & thinner sheets; Lincoln Ranger 8 Gas Welder; Mastercraft Maximum 9-Drawer Tool Box & 11-

Code of Conduct

Continued from Page 18

And it clarified and updated local election rules while improving voter accessibility for people with disabilities and people displaced by wildfires.

The province said codes of conduct were sometimes weaponized for political purposes or to muzzle councillors with unpopular opinions.

Municipal Affairs Minister Dan Williams told The Macleod Gazette he’s investigating mechanisms councils can use to “solve their problems locally when untoward or unethical behaviours are happening amongst council members.”

Whatever that mechanism is, it won’t be a potential instrument for engaging in political attacks and stifling opposition, the minister said.

“If there's a council or council member out there waiting for a new code of conduct that will allow them to censor someone else's legitimate political speech, then they're going to be holding their breath a very long time,” Williams said.

He did not commit to creating a provincial ombudsperson-like position.

The member for Peace River, Williams took over the municipal affairs portfolio in May. He was shuffled from mental health and addiction to fill a spot left open by the assembly’s election of Ric McIver as speaker.

Westerlund wants the province to make sure that any replacement for the codes does not perpetuate two big problems: local legal costs and the tricky role

chief administrative officers were asked to play.

Many municipalities faced “massive legal bills, because they were technically fighting both sides of a disagreement.”

Her own municipality, Brazeau County, absorbed costs in the “hundreds of thousands of dollars dealing with some of these issues that never came to fruition.”

Then there’s chief administrative officers being placed in the crossfire of their employers. CAOs report to their councils, and only their councils hire and fire them.

“When you have the CAO in charge of investigations — and I’m (using) sarcasm here — what could possibly go wrong with that?” said Westerlund. “I was going to say it’s awkward, but it’s not even that. It’s an absolutely awful situation they were being placed in.”

Back when Bill 50 was introduced, the then-minister expressed a similar sentiment.

“The poor CAO depends upon the council to keep their job. It’s just not fair to have that person forced to referee things among their bosses,” Ric McIver said in early April. “So I think it’s an obvious area of fairness.”

McIver also said then that the act allows for the creation of an independent ethics commissioner to deal with council conduct.

The RMA, which represents 69 counties, municipal districts and other unurbanized municipalities, holds its fall convention Nov. 17-20 at the Edmonton Convention Centre. The current provincial legislative session is set to resume Oct. 27.

W4-19-57-15-NW East Half Lamont County 78.01 acres with 45 acres ± in hay. Nice building site.

TOWN OF LAMONT

5119 48 Ave, 5121 48 Ave, and 5116 47 Ave Lamont AB 3 commercial lots 50' by 100', 65' by 100', and 30' by 100' Price: $200,000

VILLAGE OF ANDREW

STELLA’S COFFEE CO. STELLA’S COFFEE CO.

A fresh brew of community and tradition in Killam

When you walk through the doors of Stella’s Coffee Co. on Killam’s Main Street, the first thing you’ll notice isn’t just the smell of fresh-brewed coffee or warm baked goods. It’s the feeling. A sense of calm, of belonging, of being welcomed like family, which is exactly what owner Emily Fee envisioned when she opened the café nearly a year ago.

“I really just wanted to be able to spread that to the people of Flagstaff and Killam,” Fee says. “Give everybody a place to go and just have their moment of peace and calm and a good cup of coffee and a snack.”

Her love of coffee began long before Stella’s. Fee vividly remembers her first cup as a junior high student stressed about exams. What started as a one-time solution quickly became a Sunday ritual, then an everyday habit, and eventually the passion that fuels her business.

Baking was always part of her story too. As a child, she stood on a chair to help her mom measure ingredients, preparing cookie dough before being allowed near the oven. For her 16th birthday, while friends were dreaming of cars, Fee received a powder-blue KitchenAid mixer. “It was the best thing ever,” she recalls. And it’s still going strong eight years later.

Carrying on a Family Legacy Stella’s Coffee Co. is about more than coffee and baking. It’s about roots. Fee is the fifth generation of her family to work in the same building, originally built by her great-great-grandparents after

moving to Killam. Over the years it has housed a hardware store, a flower shop, and now a coffee shop.

Naming the business “Stella’s” was intentional. It honours her great-great-grandmother and the women in her family whose presence was always essential, even if their names never appeared on the storefront. “To just be able to call it Stella’s and honour all the women that came before me, I think it was a fitting name and I’m happy I chose it,” Fee says. Stella herself worked at the library, earned a teaching degree, and supported her family in countless ways - ties that still resonate in the community today.

Learning the Craft

Opening Stella’s wasn’t without challenges. Fee admits she had no prior experience running a café, and her espresso machine - delivered on a pallet - seemed daunting at first. “It was scary. And I kept burning myself,” she says. Training with her coffee bean supplier helped her gain the skills and confidence to master espresso and milk steaming. With time, trial, and error, her drinks became customer favourites.

Today, her caramel macchiato is both her personal go-to and the most popular order. “It’s definitely the most popular drink order. It’s the safe choice for a lot of people, and they don’t want to stray from that, which is totally fine because I understand,” she says.

The menu also features homemade soups, croissant sandwiches, and a rotating selection of baked

goods, all made daily. “Everything is small batch made from scratch in the back by me every single day,” Fee explains. “So it’s as fresh as it can be.”

A Place for Everyone

Stella’s quickly became a community hub. Fee says her customers include everyone from junior high students on lunch break to seniors catching up with friends, as well as local business owners and Main Street staff. “Anybody who wants a cup of coffee, soup, or snack comes in,” she says.

The mix of people has created a warm, familiar atmosphere where conversations often flow between tables. Regulars are greeted by name, and Fee knows their routines well enough to prepare their orders in advance. “Like, I know Fridays I need to save a sandwich and two muffins for this lady. And if this person comes in, I can just load up the stuff for a macchiato,” she says.

The ‘Third Place’ For Fee, Stella’s is about more than food and drink. She hopes it can be what sociologists call a “third place” - somewhere outside of home and work where people can feel comfortable and connected.

“I want to be that space for people so that they have a place to go, a place to be themselves and just have their little moment,” she explains. “Like maybe chat with somebody else at a table - happens a lot - and yeah, it just builds the community more and better.”

In a time when busy schedules and technology can make life isolating, Stella’s offers something

simple but essential: genuine connection. “Maybe the only five minutes of peace that somebody has in a day is while I steam the milk for their drink,” Fee says. “If that’s the case, then I’m happy with that.”

Community Support and Small-Town Spirit

The support Fee has experienced from Killam and the surrounding area has been remarkable. “It’s honestly so cool,” she says. “To just know that I’m a regular part of their day and they’re a regular part of mine, it’s so cool.”

She also notes how local businesses support one another. On quiet days, she knows the whole street feels it, but neighbouring shops often stop by to order drinks or snacks for their teams. “Small businesses, supporting small businesses is how rural Alberta can survive,” Fee says.

Come On In, You’re Family

That welcoming spirit is summed up in Stella’s tagline: Come on in, you’re family. Fee laughs that in a small town like Killam, it started as a joke - but it stuck, because it’s true.

Whether you’re a local with a standing order or someone passing through on your way to Edmonton or Wainwright, Stella’s Coffee Co. offers more than caffeine and baked goods. It’s a place where history, community, and comfort come together - a place where everyone belongs.

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