Major wildfire rips through Ukrainian Village
BY JOHN MATHER
Just days after invoking fire restrictions across Lamont County, a fire broke out Good Friday that ravaged parts of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village destroying the main information centre.
In a statement from Lamont Communications Coordinator Jay Zaal, emergency services responded initially around 2:30 p.m with all stations from Andrew, Chipman, Mundare, Lamont and Bruderheim.
He added Strathcona emergency services were called in for additional help. Zaal added the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
“High winds created significant challenges, and it was too windy for air support on the day of the fire but Lamont Emergency Services was able to call in air support Sunday to address hotspots,” said Zaal.
“Crews worked extremely hard against strong winds to protect all the buildings. They were successful in preserving all the historical buildings, but unfortunately some administrative and operational buildings were lost, and this is devastating.
“A huge credit to the firefighters for their hard work to save what they could,” concluded Zaal.
The fire jumped to the north side of Highway 16 resulting in RCMP closing the major east/west highway for some time. It has since reopened.
RCMP issued a localized Alberta Emergency Alert (AEA) for precautionary evacuation preparation. The provincial alert was cancelled 30 min after it was put in place once the fire was contained and residents/houses were no longer under potential risk.
Destroyed by fire at the Village just east of Elk Island National Park, was the information centre which also contained public washrooms, a gift shop and administrative offices.
No damage estimate was available.
Lamont County Emergency Services Deputy Regional Fire Chief Scott Calder told Edmonton media high winds spread the flames rapidly.
“Crews worked pretty hard and tried to get ahead of it as best we could,” he said. “We didn’t want it to get to this point, but we were fighting some pretty astronomical environmental issues.”
Calder said around 30 firefighters helped put out the flames. He said the initial call came in from south of Highway 16 outside of the park.
Fort Saskatchewan RCMP said the fire started amid dry conditions east of Elk Island National Park, behind the Village.
Calder said calls for grass or wildfires are likely to become increasingly common in the weeks ahead.
Continued on Page 2
A firefighter battles hellish conditions of flame, smoke and high winds to stop the Ukrainian Village fire on Highway 16. Crystal Moren photo.
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village fire
Continued from front
“We would always recommend people to maintain their vegetation around their homes, ensure they don’t have too much growing right next to buildings,” he said.
“Keep a clean yard. It’s going to help decrease that spread of fire in the event of an accident.”
“This is a profound loss – not only for the Ukrainian community, but for all Albertans who value and honour our province’s diverse cultural heritage,” said Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women
Tanya Fir in a joint statement issued April 18 with Fort SaskatchewanVegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong Homeniuk,
KLEPARCHUK, Leona (Pevonia)
November 4, 1932 –April 16, 2025
On Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Leona Kleparchuk of Hilliard, Alberta passed away peacefully at the age of 92 years, with her family by her side.
Leona is survived by her loving family, daughters Barbara (Brian) Andruchow, Marlene (Bob) Rohatynchuk, MaryAnn (Melvin) Fried and Eileen (Steve) Vereschagin; 13 grandchildren James (Rachel), Kimberly (Paul), Kristine (Curtis), Carmen (Keith), Candace (Justin) and Daniel:
Johnston, Wilfred
Mitchell and Colin (Lindsay): Jason (Nenita), Ryan and Landon: Aaron and Jillian; 8 great grandchildren Ella, Emma, Christopher, Luke and Jack: Maksym: Joshua and Aliyah; one sister Sally Patrie; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Leona was predeceased by her husband Mike; her parents John and Anna Stowbec and brother Zachari.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Russo-Greek Orthodox ChurchChipman, Alberta with Father Alexios Surayev officiating. Interment to follow in the Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “St. John the Baptist RussoGreek Orthodox ChurchChipman” or to the “Lamont Health Care Centre.” Вічная Пам’ять ~ Memory Eternal
To send condolences, visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com
AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville, 780-603-5800
Wilfred Johnston, my best bud, my side kick, my love, my everything has departed this life and joined the rest of his family in a better place. He was born in Lamont AB. Dec 3, 1955, passed away at the Royal Alexandra Hospital March 21, 2025. He leaves his wife Kathleen Mackintosh, son Brandon Millet, grandson Benjamin Millet, stepdaughters; Kelsey Jones (Nathaniel K. Snyder), Michelle Crossman (Mike Crossman) grandchildren; Nhial, Flynn and Robyn Crossman.
Celebration of life will be held at the Bruderheim Memorial Community Centre in Bruderheim, AB on May 3, 2025, from 1:00-3:00 pm.
Phone: (780) 998-1422
Fax: (780) 998-1423
Website: www.serenity.ca
Above and right: Fire devoured the information centre at the Ukrainian Village, flames and charcoal rolling hundreds of feet in the air while fire crew battled to keep it contained. Below: damage resulting from the blaze. Crystal Moren photos.
A Strathcona County brush truck soaks out flames trying to jump Highway 16.
Opinion
Debates prove journalistic integrity in Canada is a dying thing
BY JOHN MATHER
Well the election debates are over. And what are we, the electors, to learn from them.
The mainstream media can actually go ballistic when they get upstaged by independent media outlets asking some basic questions of the leadership candidates.
Further, the electoral commission that runs these events doesn’t know what it is doing.
Why?
Well shortly before the French language debate they banned the Green Party from taking part because they didn’t field enough candidates Canada-wide to meet their requirements.
Well ok, as one commentator put it the Green Party is irrelevant and in reality has become “Elizabeth May’s vanity project.”
I can’t really argue that. The party doesn’t offer much in terms of solutions.
It doesn’t seem to understand money doesn’t grow on trees but rather is the product of Canadian taxpayers’ hard work; and anytime I’ve watched Elizabeth May rise to ask a question or try and rebut a comment during question period it’s patently obvious the woman has no clue as to what she is talking about.
But, having kicked the Greenies out of the debates, why did they allow Yves-Francois Blanchet in?
The Bloc Quebecois leader stated during the debate he had no desire to become prime minister of Canada.
No, rather he wants to fight for Quebec issues and Quebec issues alone.
He is in fact a secondary Premier of Quebec, sort of giving Quebec double bargaining power when it comes to dealing with Ottawa.
The Bloc only fields candidates in Quebec so they don’t meet the requirements the electoral commission has set and used to kick the Greens out.
So why are they allowed in?
Having said that I think Blanchet was the most practical person during the debates.
He made positive points. He was not afraid to call out contradictory points made by Conservatives, Liberals or the NDP.
In both the French and English debates he distinguished himself and frankly I could vote for him, except he doesn’t represent anything to do with Canada or western Canada.
CONTINUED
His sole focus is Quebec.
The worst performer was Jagmeet Singh. Having gained his gold plated pension at the end of February, Singh had dreadful performances in both French and English and basically lied on his points to the Canadian people.
His comments that Pierre Poilievre only built six houses when he was housing minister under Prime Minister Harper has been thoroughly debunked by no less that the Toronto Star, yet Singh keeps trying to hang his hat on this.
So sad.
Poilievre continued to make the points he has been making since winning the Conservative leadership.
He is pinning this campaign on the Liberal record of the past 10 years and rightly so.
Carney’s cabinet has three faces that weren’t in cabinet under Trudeau. That cabinet, with Stephen Guilbeault and Jonathon Wilkinson among others has systematically destroyed this country’s status on the world stage speaking economically for the past 10 years.
Meanwhile the newcomer, who isn’t new to anything dealing with Canadian politics, Liberal leader Mark Carney tries to hang his entire campaign on the threat from Donald Trump.
Let’s be blunt.
Trump will be here for four years.
The wreckage of the systematic demolition of Canada’s economy by the Liberals, the divisions in this country caused by Liberals favouritism to different regions, will take
decades to repair.
And then there’s mainstream media. Since the internet started wiping out large circulation newspapers and the Canadian magazine industry, smaller independent start ups have become popular.
Most of these are founded and staffed by journalists laid off from those newspapers and magazines that went defunct.
The ‘right leaning’ outlets, during the French debate hustled to the microphones during the leaders’ post-debate scrums and asked pointed questions.
Now ‘left outfits’ such as the Tyee, Press Progress or the National Observer could also have jumped the gun but didn’t.
But CBC’s Rosemary Barton and David Cochrane went ballistic.
Why were these upstarts allowed to ask obnoxious questions, why couldn’t we have questions, wah, wah, wah.
Whoever told Rosemary Barton or David Cochrane that working for a highly government funded media outfit made you the voice of Canada?
Get over yourselves!
And as for Jagmeet Sing, he refused to answer questions from the Rebel News, much like his Alberta brethren like to do as well.
The next day he put on his big boy pants and took puff ball questions from “journalists” at an organized scrum he privately held.
When politicians stop being answerable to the fifth estate, then Canada is really out of control.
Will the results on April 28 bring some semblance of normalcy back?
We can only hope the results make it so.
Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter Jana Semeniuk Reporter Crystal Moren
BY HAZEL ANAKA
Maybe it’s time for a topic round-up; a few random thoughts on a cross-section of subjects. I hope you got to watch more of the English-language federal election debate last Thursday than I did. I had to shut the TV off and hop onto a live YouTube event I was hosting. Because the ‘highlights’ and zingers have been aired on TV many times since the debate I got a feel for the tenor of the night. But I also missed my favourite part, the post-debate analysis by strategists, media, and pundits. If the pollsters are to be believed there are very few undecideds who could move the election results. That, plus the huge turnout at long weekend advance polls has everyone trying to read the tea leaves to figure out what is going on. New poll numbers
FROM WHERE I SIT: That’s Not Too Shabby
and their trend lines won’t be available until Tuesday. So, as always, the onus is on us. We need to be informed and we need to get our butts to the polling station. What we do in the privacy of the booth is between us and our conscience but vote we must. A friend of mine from the US says she hasn’t ever voted because “everyone is corrupt and they’re all the same.” This outlook is shocking to me and seems so irresponsible. I’ve never known the ‘head in the sand’ strategy to work or insulate anyone from the world around us.
I haven’t heard the full extent of the damages suffered by the fire at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village (UCHV) this weekend but am saddened by the news. It provides a unique homage to early Ukrainian settlers and an interactive tourism experience. It has not been without its critics however. That said, many of the buildings and their contents are irreplaceable. How much smoke damage have others suffered? The visitor centre was lost. From my under-
standing many of the items in the gift shop are there on consignment. Unless those consignors carried their own insurance on their handiwork, I fear the loss will not be covered, which is a huge blow to artists and crafters.
I suppose it remains to be seen if the Village will be able to open this season. Government-owned and operated entities are not known for their speed and ability to react with some sense of urgency. A private tourism operator would be doing everything humanly possible to salvage the season and stay afloat.
And let’s not lose sight of the underlying warning in this story. Fire is usually preventable and can often be traced back to careless human behaviour. With tinder dry conditions and the inevitable spring winds, we are sitting on a powder keg. Avoiding open fires, practicing safe smoking habits, and keeping mufflers in tip top shape are some easy to adopt habits. We only need remember the devastation of the Fort MacMurray, Jasper, California and countless
Lamont and Area
other fires for all the motivation we need.
Are you all psyched up for the Stanley Cup playoffs? It annoys me that the Oilers have to play the LA Kings in the first round. Wasn’t it the last game they played in LA in the regular season where reckless inaction by the referees saw several Oilers get hurt. Or am I confused? Roy tells me two refs were fired before the start of the playoffs but I’m not sure if it was those officials.
The fact that some Canadians are deciding not to travel to the States for these games tells you just how peeved we continue to be about the whole Trump disaster. My friend from Wisconsin keeps apologizing for her government. She says us living next to the US is like having a meth addict living in your basement. Hopefully, the grassroots protests sweeping the States will result in a wholesale change in the mid-terms and bring some semblance of normalcy back to their country. We can’t afford much more of Trump’s instability.
We are extremely proud of our son who
this week will be hosting the grand opening for his expanded instrumentation business in a gigantic new space in Thornton, Colorado. When we toured it in January, it was still at the drywall stage so a lot of imagination was required to see the vision. It’s taken nearly a year to take this 20,000 square-foot building down to the studs and redesign it as a purposebuilt facility. When he
said the mayor was attending, I warned him to be ready for a possible ribbon cutting photo op. This is another of those occasions where we must cheer from a distance.
Before we meet again in this space in The Leader, we will all have voted, elected a new government, heard about the future of UCHV, and watched the Oilers beat the LA Kings in Game 1. That’s not too shabby, from where I sit.
From the files of the Lamont Leader
Bruderheim Community Church 4904 Queen Street 780-796-3775
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Feb. 15, 2011 edition of the Lamont Leader: (l to r) Vladimir Grigorev, MP Leon Benoit and Sergei Giebov at the bison handling facility. Thirty wood bison will make their way to Russia on March 15 in an arrangement between the two countries. The bison will join a group of 30 from 2006 which has grown since expanding territory to Russia.
Chipman Hotel owner celebrates ups and downs during 10 years
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Glasses were raised and congratulations shared at the Chipman Hotel on Apr. 19 as owner Dave Magee celebrated 10 years of owning the 78-year-old hotel.
Magee held a special dinner event where Mundare musician Parry Olsen entertained the crowd of 50 with his one man show, in addition to guests enjoying a full dinner menu including sliced beef, fried chicken and all the fixings.
Magee was thrilled that so many people came out to offer their best wishes including a visit three weeks ago from Lakeland MP Shannon Stubbs who wasn’t able to make it the night of the event.
“I phoned them because I wanted to get some signs,” said Magee, adding Stubbs and her husband wound up visiting the hotel and stayed for a meal. “She’s very good. She’s got my full support.”
Stubbs included a congratulatory post to Magee on her social media, as well as her regrets at being unable to attend the dinner event.
“I can't make it this evening, but if you're in the area, stop by the Chipman Bar at the hotel to celebrate their 10 years in business!” she wrote.
“Cheers to Dave and Rachel for maintaining, updating and nurturing this unique community watering hole and gathering place from as long back as I can ever
remember. Hope everyone has a great time, and Happy Easter, all.”
In honouring the hotel’s history, Magee keeps photos on the wall depicting the hotel as it was being built in 1947 alongside the Myrtle Hotel which was built in 1905.
Magee said the he has renovated the hotel rooms upstairs, complete with their original room numbers on the doors, but doesn’t operate it as a hotel any longer.
“I have rooms upstairs, but I don't really rent them out. I keep them nice for friends,” he said, adding he lives in one of the suites.
The next-door Myrtle Hotel was closed and eventually torn down.
As Magee reflected on his 10-years at the Chipman Hotel, he said he saw potential in the building when he first laid eyes on it back in 2015.
“I came into the place, and at the time, I thought, this just looks like it could have some potential,” he said. “It was a local who owned it. When I came in, it needed a bit of work, definitely, but we've been hacking away at it.”
Magee said the going got tough sometimes, such as when COVID hit and two years ago when he suffered a boiler issue that left him without heat or water. The hotel was closed for four months as a result.
“It was a touch and go for a while, especially,
you know, the winter comes and your utility bills skyrocket and the customers plummet,” he said. “It's horrifying, but it's been good. As you can see, there's a lot of people (here), regulars, hard working locals, all law abiding and God fearing.”
Magee said some highlights for him, as owner of the Chipman Hotel, is partaking in the village’s annual Car Show and serving bikers.
“It's always nice when I get 10 or 15 or 20 Harley's pulling up, right?” he said smiling.
Several of Magee’s friends attended Saturday’s event including some of his oldest friends Dave and Rita Long, who have known Magee since 1977. The Longs drove out from Edmonton to not only congratulate their friend on a decade of hotel ownership, but also to celebrate their own 46th wedding anniversary.
“Dave’s got a certain charisma about him that always drew people and he’s an interesting guy,” said Dave Long.
In terms of the future, Magee said he doesn’t see himself doing anything else.
“Just going to hang in there, and hopefully things will kick up and we'll get through this economic disaster we're going through,” he said.
“I’m not going to express my political views, but I think it’s time for a change in Canada.”
Chipman Hotel owner Dave Magee poses for a photo with cook Gail Bellerose during Magee's event Apr. 19, celebrating 10 years of hotel ownership.
Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Mundare musician Parry Olsen rocked the bar at the Chipman Hotel with his oneman show. Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Record number of voters line up for first day of advance polls
BY JANA SEMENIUK
As advance polling stations opened up across the county on Apr. 18, Elections Canada announced a record voter turn out for the first day.
Elections Canada announced the update on their social media page Apr. 19.
“Preliminary estimates show that nearly 2 million electors voted last
Friday on the first day of advance polls. A record number!” said the post, adding that Elections Canada will adjust to handle the higher volume.
According to reports, the federal election in 2021 drew 18 percent more voters than in 2019, bringing in nearly 5.8 million voters over the entire advanced polling period.
Line ups began at the Lamont arena April 18 as the first poll opened up at 9 a.m. Early polls across the country were open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. from April 18 to April 21. Additionally, electors could vote at an Elections Canada office until April 22.
Election day is April 28.
Egg-citing Easter celebration at Bruderheim
BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG
The Bruderheim Agricultural Society brought springtime magic to life this Easter weekend with a funfilled Easter Egg Hunt that delighted children and families from across the community.
The event, held at the Bruderheim Nikaanag Park, offered more than just an egg hunt - it was a day of fun, connection, and unforgettable memories.
Children eagerly followed a map of the grounds collecting special stamps, each one promising sweet surprises and wide smiles. But the excitement didn’t stop there.
A special visit from some fuzzy friends added a heartwarming touch to the day. Kids had the chance to meet live bunnies and fluffy chicks up close, sparking giggles and awe as they gently held and petted the animals under careful supervision.
perfect way to mark the holiday and create keepsakes.
A festive springtime backdrop allowed families to capture the moment with the adorable star attractions—the bunnies and chicks themselves. Many parents noted it was a
The Easter celebration is one of many seasonal events hosted by the AG Society throughout the year, reflecting their ongoing commitment to enriching life in Bruderheim.
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Elections Canada reported a record number of voters turning out for the first day of advance polls last week. Lineups began as the early polls opened at the Lamont Arena on April 18. Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Parents brought their children to Nikaanag Park in Bruderheim to enjoy the Easter festivities and meet the Easter Bunny in person. Melissa MacIntosh-Young photo.
8 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, April 23, 2025
103-year-old Baba motivates Green Party candidate
BY JOHN MATHER
The Green Party candidate running for the Lakeland seat would like to see a shift towards more organic and ecological farming practices and a move towards more investment in public healthcare if she is elected to go to Ottawa representing the riding.
Bridget Burns is from Victoria, B.C. and currently works as an organizer for the party.
“I’m hearing from local growers that they are facing challenges
related to environmental sustainability, farmer support, to ensure longterm viability, resilience, and food security for all Canadians,” Burns said in a press release to the Leader.
“I believe a shift towards organic and ecological farming practices, promoting biodiversity and soil health and providing incentives and training to support farmers in adopting climatefriendly methods.
“I’d like to see a reduction in the reliance on
chemical inputs and support more localized food systems.”
Burns said her Baba was born and raised in
Lakeland Green Party candidate Bridget Burns
Smoky Lake. She is currently 103 years old.
“I want to reinforce the values that were passed on to me, from her –shared resources, leaving no one behind, and a deep respect for the land and don't waste a darn thing!”
Burns also wants to see a fairer taxation system for Canadians.
She said the Green Party will eliminate all federal income taxes on earnings under $40,000, providing immediate financial relief for lower
and middle-income Canadians.
And beyond income tax reform, the Green Party advocates for a Guaranteed Livable Income, beginning with persons with disabilities and improving income support for low-income parents through measures like increasing the Canada Child Tax Benefit.
“I want to see more investment in public health care instead of allowing for-profit corporations to deliver more
services and a well-funded universal health care system that puts people first, not profits.”
To tackle rising prescription costs, the Green Party proposes to expand the Canada Health Act by fully funding a Canada Wide PharmaCare Program to make medicines free for everyone.
“I want to exemplify respectful discourse and kindness, and to represent the needs and concerns of Lakelandians in the best way possible.”
Stubbs embraces new technology for election but doorknocking still one of her favourite things
BY JOHN MATHER
Lakeland Conservative candidate Shannon Stubbs feels people in Canada still haven’t grasped that newly minted Liberal leader Mark Carney is just one person, but the majority of his cabinet are all holdovers from the
Trudeau cabinets which wreaked havoc on western Canada during the past 10 years.
“I hope people do realize that by election day,” said Stubbs in a wide ranging interview, April 3.
“We’re working hard to get that message out.
Carney’s cabinet is 87 per cent Trudeau’s cabinet ministers.”
She points out Carney elevated Stephan Guilbeault to become the Quebec lieutenant.
“One thing is exciting, even before Pierre Poilievre had 15,000 people out to a rally in
Nisku, is that he had 6,000 people out to a rally in Oshawa, Ont.”
She said that and strong rallies in Prince Edward Island, Brampton and Kitchener /Waterloo had large numbers as well.
“The crowds are massive in Alberta, but I real-
ly hope those people do come out and vote and don’t remain passive.”
Stubbs said she hadn’t been asked to campaign outside the riding in any of the swing ridings down east.
She did say because of her massive support in Lakeland several donors
have been given the option to provide funding to help in swing ridings in Atlantic Canada.
Stubbs does have roots in that area.
She said her campaign had transferred $100,000 to help candidates in some of the targeted areas. Cont. Page 15
The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, April 23, 2025 -9
Lamont County approves Andrew Rural Academy funding request
Newly hired superintendent looking forward to school year
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Lamont County council approved a funding request for $50,000 to the new charter school Andrew Rural Academy during their Apr. 15 council meeting.
The request was originally presented during the Jan. 14 county council meeting, but council delayed their decision.
“On Jan. 28 Council elected to hold off responding to their funding request until such a time as the Province awarded the charter,” explained Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky, adding that conditions were placed on the school’s charter approval by the province.
“Council again requested the representatives of the Rural Academy returned to council to provide information regarding enrollments and progress against requirements.”
Tarnawsky said the school intended to use the funds towards
staffing, furniture and school hardware and software. The funding request approval was unanimous.
Meanwhile, the school’s newly hired superintendent Dr. Natalie Rose said in an interview with the Lamont Leader she was impressed with the school’s focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and interested in bringing more opportunities to rural areas.
“Education and training is my passion,” she said. “I think there sometimes is a little bit of a neglect in that area, in rural and northern regions of Alberta, and I have for years, been contributing to trying to change that.”
Dr. Rose, whose family includes her husband and daughter, said she began her career as an educator and trainer in Canada before moving on to the United States, Europe, South America and Alaska.
“My work has always been in and out of academia, so I can be focused in academia, but because my passion is education and training, I've been able to work in different industries,” she said.
Dr. Rose said she earned her Doctor of Education, Master of Education and Bachelor of Business degrees from the University of Toronto in addition to several certificates.
“I’m a lifelong learner,” she said. “I’m interested in all things education and training.”
Dr. Rose said ARA is moving in the right direction in terms of their post secondary partnerships and sees a lot of opportunity for students.
“It lends way to perfect opportunities for students to get a kick start in their careers.
“Managing some of these partnerships so that we have opportunities for, let's say, grade 11 and 12 students to take courses that should be
related to the programs and careers of their interest, I'm so excited about that,” she said.
Dr. Rose added she was “pleasantly shocked” when she visited the school.
“The facility is so large. I didn't actually expect that. It's a great building with a small community, big building to accommodate lots of students,” she said, adding that remote learning will also help bring more opportunities to rural students.
“It's a really great opportunity for other regions once we have cultivated something great so that they can do the same, and put jobs back into the community.”
The Andrew Rural Academy school can accommodate 385 students. Additionally, project manager Stan Zabrick said registrations are being accepted daily and so far more than 100 students are enrolled for Sept.
Chipman bridge funding approved
BY JANA SEMENIUK
The Chipman bridge, needing replacement since 2022, may soon be under construction thanks in part to a funding request, for up to $360,000, that was approved by Lamont County Council during their April 15 council meeting.
Chipman Village Chief Administrative Officer, Pat Tomkow, and engineer April Kliachik, came as a delegate during the April 1 council meeting, to make the funding request that was originally made and approved by the County in 2023.
PURSCHKE, Dorothy Ida
1924 – 2025
On April 15, 2025, our dearly beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Dorothy Ida Purschke, passed away at the fulfilled age of 101.
She leaves behind her loving children, Brian (Pat), Patricia, Bob (Selena), Marilyn (Don) Buckner, Joe (Lenora) and Ted (Debbie), along with her seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, Francis; and granddaughter, Dawn. Dorothy will be deeply missed and forever remembered in our hearts.
The family wishes to thank Patient Comforts for the kindness and support provided for Mom’s last days.
As per Dorothy's wishes, a private family service will be held. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, a random act of kindness is requested or memorial donations may be made to the Lamont Health Care Centre Patient Comforts Fund, https://lamonthealthcarecentre.ca/donation. Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com.
Park Memorial Lamont 780-895-2157
Family-Owned Funeral Home And Crematorium
Tomkow said the bridge was originally slated to cost $1.8 million
After the project was delayed, due to rising costs and design approvals, and the money not used, council put it back into their reserves prompting the second funding request.
with 75 percent covered by Provincial grants and the remaining 25 percent the responsibility of the Village.
The county approved a
motion to fund 80 percent of the Village of Chipman’s share of the bridge replacement costs up to a maximum of $360,000.
a desire to learn will be trained on the job. The ability to operate equipment is an asset. References are required.
A successful applicant must be physically fit, have a clean driver’s abstract and be able to follow our drug and alcohol policy.
Please send your resume with references by email to: admin@ironcreekgas.com or you can go to our website: www.ironcreekgas.com/careers Only those persons considered for an interview will be contacted.
Lamont County imposes fire restrictions
BY JOHN MATHER
Dry conditions and spring winds have forced Lamont County to implement fire restrictions across the County.
“This fire restriction is in effect for all Lamont County rural areas, including hamlets,” said a County press release sent out to media and posted on social media April 16.
The villages of Chipman and Andrew are also included in the fire restrictions.
The fire restrictions prohibits any/all uncontained burning activities (open-air burning), including the issuance of fire permits, the discharge of fireworks and the use of exploding targets; rescinds all previously approved fire permits and fireworks discharge permits; allows safe fires in burning barrels provided they are equipped with metal mesh screens, located on a non-combustible surface a minimum of three meters from any combustable materials including buildings and allows fire pits con-
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Children could not resist participating in the Easter Egg hunt and photos with the Easter bunny during the Lamont Farmer’s Market Apr. 16 event.
Market manager Anke Schroeder said she was pleased to see the children enjoying the Easter activities in addition to attracting several new vendors, including military historian author Don Levers.
Schroeder also said she received news that two new blue highway signs will be installed, directing travellers to the local farmer’s market.
Schoeder said news of the signs made her very happy.
“It’s been in the works for quite some time,” she said. “Two months ago, I went to the Lamont council to talk about this. I asked them to sponsor it and pay for it and they did.”
Schroeder said the signs cost the Town a total of $650 with discounts.
Meanwhile, Schroeder said the market had a
tained by non-combustible material with a metal mesh screen, as well as charcoal briquette barbecues, propane/gas barbecue, and propane/gas fire pits. All fire pits must be supervised and extinguished before leaving unattended.
The County asks all residents take care with all other activities around your property that could produce a fire hazard such as riding All-Terrain Vehicles and cutting tall grass.
The fire restriction will continue until
total of 27 vendors and will now take a break until the weekly summer season starts up May 28.
further notice.
Fire restrictions can escalate into fire bans
with little notice added the release suggesting residents regularly check the County web page for further information and updates.
DIRECTIONS: 574050.R.Rd164,being4km.NorthofAndrewCorneronHighway45. Andrewisapprox.100kmN.E.ofEdmonton. Plantoattendthisverycleansalew/qualitygoodsonoffer. Saturday,May3rd@10AM,MajorItemsSell@Approx.1PM Viewing: Friday,May2from10-4pm.GarageSaleViewingDayofSale. 3pt.Tractor&3pt,Equipment(AllShedded,1Owner): *20164WD.KubotaModelBX23703cyl.Dieselw/Fact.F.E.L.&4’Bucket,Fact.BellyMount,60”Mowerw/755hrs. @Listing,VeryNice,TractorSN16155-MowerSN61731*5’KubotaLandPrideRototillerModelR.T.R0550SN616017 *KubotaModelB5320BoxforHauling*KingCutter1Bottom3pt.Plow Vehicles: *20044Dr.3/4TonDodgeRam2500SeriesDieselw/4X4Standard,MechanicsUtilityBoxShowing480,000km. w/RebuiltMotorin2010Whichhad200,200km.Replaced,NewFront&RearEnd,WaterPump,FuelPumpandAlternator,2nd Owner,SN3DKU28C34C14398*1996SuzukiSideKickw/NewHeadGaskets,4Cyl.,Standard2or4WD.,Showing98,000 km.SN2S3TD03V7T6406198 Recreation: *2014ArcticCat500EFI4WDQuadw/ToolBox&Winch,1940Miles,1OwnerSN 4UF14ATVXET205488*QuadTrailer*R.V.Dolly*1992Glastron16’OpenBowBoat(SNAB5010784)w/140JohnsonH.P.Motor, TrollingMotor,HasColoredFishFinder,198916’GreyUnivisionBoatTrailer,TrailerSN2UN5TNXX8GB000674*GoodSelectionof FishingRods*(2)ManualCrankDownRiggersw/WeightsforFishing*Weiderpro4300WeightMachine,Upper&LowerBody Workout*1OwnerMatthewsCompoundBow&Case*1OwnerHornetExtremeCrossbow&SoftCase*5StringBanjo&Case* VariousRacquets:Tennis,Squash,RacquetBallw/Cases*DyacoTreadMill-FreeSpiritClubSN16229001*Weiderpro4300Weight Machine,Upper&LowerBodyWorkout*1OwnerHornetExtremeCrossbow&SoftCage*5StringBanjo&Case*VariousRacquets: Tennis,Squash,RacquetBallw/Cases,etc.
Yard(VeryGood&OnlyPartiallyListed): *Hobart210WirefedWelderSNME262786Y*20Ton2016ChampionPortableWood Splitterw/196ccMotor,1Owner*BlackDiamondDualStage220FloorAirCompressorw/60Gal&227L*7’RedWindMill*12 VoltP.BehindSprayerw/Tank&Booms*OranMarquis5000Gas,120VoltGenSet*Stackof18Sq.RubberTiles*32’Ext.Ladder *(4)6’X3’MetalStorageCabinetw/Shelves*36”RockwellWoodLathew/VariousTools&AttachmentsSN194558*16”240 Husqvarna&20”455RancherHusqvarnaChainsaws*ROK10”MeatCuttingBandSaw&Grinder*BradleySmokerw/Cover* GerryCans*SmallWindmill*WoodenLogSwing,LogChair,Rocker,Nice*VariousGardenTools&Accessories*1/2WoodenBarrel Planters*MetalRidingToys-Duck,Chipmunk,Etc.*BoltBinsw/Bolts*VariousWaterTanks*FloorMagnetonWheels*TitanXT250 PaintSprayerw/Hoses,Pump,Gun&Ends*4’HighNice3OtterWaterFountain,Concrete*75,000B.T.U.DewaltDieselHeater* Simoniz6.5H.P.PressureWasherw/196cc,3200P.S.I.*Beautiful48”CheckerPlateCargoMasterTruckToolBox*8000EliteGas Gen.Setw/B&SEngine*GoodSelectionofVariousTools,Wrenches,Hammers,ViceGrips,Sockets,AirTools,Grinders,Disks,Etc.* Alum.TruckRamps*MotoMaster13,000Ib.CarRamps*Diesel&GasCaddiesonWheels*KerosineBarrelHeaterCoalOil*Green 17p.3’X5’Util.Trailerw/Dump,Ball&Hitch*PolyWaterTanks*PowerSawzall*LargeRedGarageCreeper*MastercraftPower& HandMetalCutters*ChickenPlucker Antiques&Collectables: *2’x3’MetalAMSOILSign*VariousSteelWagonWheels*Walking Plow*2Stoolsw/CastTractorSeats*3WoodenSteamerTrunks*Medalta5GalButterChurnw/Lid*WoodenButterChurnw/H. Crank*MedaltaCrocks;PickleJars,Etc.*MetalTubs*CoalPail*Wagon&SteelWheels*V.Nice200+Years14”x10”Windup Clock,lastcleaned&repairedin2007,RareItem,etc. Households(Nice,QualityGoods): *WhiteFullSizeCeramicKenmoreStove,Self-cleaning,Works*LogPineVanityw/Mirror 50”X22”X72”High,V.Nice*(2)BearFloorStands,2BearsHugging,2BearTableTopStatues*CamoChair*CamoRocker/Swivel Recliner*SmallBeigeSwivelRocker/Recliner*BarTablew/2Stools*CheckerPlateComputerDeskw/3Drawers*NiceMetalArt 46”x32”TrainPicture*PowellMetalStorageCabinetw/5Drawers*(2)2’X6’Bookcases*MatchingPairofOutdoorWickerRockers w/Cushions*MaximumInspectionCameraw/39”Flexlinew/Case,etc.
Terms&Conditions: Fullsettlementdayofsalebycashorchequewithbankreferenceifunknowntostaff.Nocreditordebitcards, noMCchequesaccepted.Nobuyerspremium,justbidpriceplusgstifapplicable.Pleaseinspectallitemspriortobiddingasall
Jana Semeniuk
Andrew attracts large crowd to volunteer appreciation dinner
BY JOHN MATHER
More than 150 people turned out at the Andrew Recreation Centre on April 17 as Lamont County FCSS celebrated the volunteers in the region, part of the county wide volunteer appreciation week.
Appreciation night was also held in Bruderheim, Lamont, and Mundare during the week.
Lamont County Reeve
David Diduck first spoke on behalf of Fort Saskatchewan Vegreville MLA Jackie Homeniuk.
He said she wrote, “As your MLA for Fort Saskatchewan Vegreville I can’t say how incredibly proud I am that so many dedicated volunteers are here today.”
She went no to say in her note the volunteers make huge labour and sacrifices in the efforts and that is very important in large rural areas.
“Without your actions in time and integrity many events would not be possible.”
Speaking as the Reeve, Diduck said, “I can not express how grateful Lamont County council is for all the volunteers we have in our rural areas and our urban centres.
“You people dedicate your time without any reward except for the satisfaction at the end of the day of a job well done.”
Diduck said their
efforts were truly appreciated.
He pointed out that in his own area the St. Michael Seniors Club or the St. Michael Agricultural Society wouldn’t be the organizations they were without the volunteers.
“Another example of volunteers really getting together to work came about when Elk Island Schools shut down the Andrew School,” he said.
“It was a major blow to the community and the general consensus the school would never function again.”
He added there were some dedicated people who had a vision and they decided they could resurrect the school by starting a rural academy in Andrew.
“They needed the Village to step forward and buy the building and then the volunteers put many hours and efforts into getting this new school up and running.”
He said the people really had a plan and the school would be operational by September 1.
This brought huge applause from the assembled crowd.
“That’s a true commitment of people volunteering their time to make their community a better place.”
He added the school was not left in good condition and it took a lot of hard work and effort to clean it up and that was
done by volunteer help.
“You people keep our communities alive and functioning and Lamont County thanks you for that.”
Andrew Mayor Barry Goertz then spoke and said, “I want to take this time to not only acknowledge our volunteers but thanks for who you are and what you do for our community. It’s people like you who allows our small village to prosper.”
“The Charter school, the Andrew Rural Academy, the figure skating club, the agricultural society, Rainbow Club, Lions Club parent
council and the fire department are all strong community volunteer run organizations.”
He said approvals for the charter school had been received but there was still a lot more work to be done before it opens.
He thanked community services and the County for putting on the Appreciation night.
Following the speeches there was entertainment by singer and guitar player Travis Dolter a rising country music artist who was raised on a farm on the heart of Alberta.
Vote Jody Foulds
For Mayor, Town of Lamont
It has been my honour and privilege to serve as your Mayor of Lamont since June 2024 and as Councilor since 2017.
In this fall’s municipal election, I ask for your continued support: Vote for Foulds so I can continue to lead our community into the future. I am on my second term of council, and I want to continue to focus on maintaining and developing infrastructure and amenities while improving services for our residents.
Please remember to vote on October 20, 2025.
Wheat:
CWRS - AAC Brandon - Improved Rated MR for FHB resistance
- Most widely grown CWRS variety in Western Canada for 5 years
CWRS - AAC Wheatland VB
-Wheat Midge tolerant
- Very good lodging resistance
CWSWS - AC Andrew - Great silage option
-In demand by milling and ethanol industries
Yellow Peas:
CDC Canary - Improved standability
-Early maturity
-Higher Yielding
Faba Beans:
CDC 219-16 - Zero Tannin
- Seed is smaller than Snowbird, larger than CDC Snowdrop
6-Row Feed Barley:
AB Advantage - Improved plump and bushel weight
- Smooth awned
-High grain and forage yield
2-Row Malt Barley:
CDC Copeland - Strong demand by malting companies
Country singer Travis Dolter entertains the crowd at the Andrew Volunteer Appreciation dinner April 17. Dolter took to the stage following a dinner and speeches by local dignitaries.
Andrew area residents serve themselves at the buffet dinner, part of the Volunteer Appreciation night April 17. A crowd of more than 150 came out to be dined and entertained by Lamont County FCSS to show appreciation for their volunteers efforts.
CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS
CARD OF THANKS
A huge thank you to the Heisler, Daysland, and Killam Fire Department for their fast response to our recent fire. Their dedication and hard work is an asset to all of our communities.
Kevin & Joanne Zimmer
COMING EVENTS
Radiant Harmony presents "A little bit of Country
A little bit of Rock 'n Roll"
Sunday, April 27 at 2pm
Daysland Palace Theatre Lunch to follow at Sunbeam Drop-in Centre
Extendicare Viking Spring Tea!
Saturday, May 3, 2025
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Serving cake, coffee & tea for $8.00 at the door.
Door Prize, Raffles, and Crafts & Baking for sale! All proceeds go to Resident Council
Flagstaff Family Day Homes
Annual General Meeting
Tuesday, May 6th, 2025 6:30 pm At the FFCS Building 4809-49th Avenue Killam, Alberta
Battle River Art Club Show and Sale
Saturday, April 26
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sedgewick Community Hall
Lunch and snacks available For more information
Call Chris McMullan 780-384-2167
Killam Health Care Hospital Reunion for all Past and Present Employees
Saturday, May 24 From 2 to 5 p.m. at the Killam Catholic Church Basement Hall 5214-50 ave
FOR SALE
PRAGUE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
ANNUAL GENERAL HALL MEETING
Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 2 PM at the Prague Hall Beverages and snack served
ANNUAL SPRING CEMETERY AND HALL CLEAN UP ST. JOHN NEPOMUCENE CEMETERY - PRAGUE
PRAGUE COMMUNITY HALL
Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 6:30 PM
Beverages and snack to follow
ANNUAL MASS - BLESSING OF THE GRAVES MASS IN PRAGUE COMMUNITY HALL
Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 11 AM
Potluck lunch and fellowship to follow
M.A.I.D.
Medical Assistance in Dying Information Session Presenter: Rachel Coventry Palliative Care Resource Nurse
Alberta Health Services
Monday, May 5 at 10:30 a.m. Heisler Senior’s Club Main Street, Heisler Lunch Provided Pre-Register by April 30 Mariann Wolbeck 780-889-2243 Kathy Kuntz 403-318-6634
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.
The Walter Jahns Singers will present their 39th Annual Spring Choral Concert on Sunday, April 27 at 7:30 pm.at the Forestburg Community Centre.
FOR SALE
WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 225. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. Quality guaranteed.
Apple trees (nine varieties) and Pear Trees (three varieties) for sale until April 30 only. Call Brian at 780-6780053 to arrange viewing or pickup.
GARAGE SALE
Moving Out/Household Sale
Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Lots of Sewing Items, Fabric, Household, Etc.
16 McLean Cresent Sedgewick
SEED FOR SALE
BARLEY – *NEW-AB Standswell*
Smooth AWN, High Yielding, Grain and Forage Great Lodging Resistance. 1st NITROGEN USE EFFICIENT CEREAL IN CANADA. Attracting Japanese Interest. OTHER BARLEY: Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. WHEAT – Pintail, Forage or Grain. OATS – AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, CDC S01 Super Oat. PEAS – Very Early Yellow Peas, Forage Peas. ALSO AVAILABLE: Polish Canola & Spring Triticale. mastinseeds.com; 403-5562609.
FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & Conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.
HELP WANTED
The Viking Historical Society is looking for summer staff at the Viking Museum. Duties include yard maintenance, cleaning, directing tours, and cataloguing artifacts. Students and mature applications alike may apply with resume and cover letter to Box 106, Viking, AB T0B 4N0
FOR RENT
2 Bedroom, large, clean, non-smoking suite in Killam. Available June 1. Call Chuck at 780-263-7290
HEALTH
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-4535372.
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
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
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
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1866-405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca
Town & Country Guardian Drugs - Killam We have: •a Kodak picture maker. •a colour/b&w photocopier.
•cold pop and fresh snacks. •a great selection of candles, giftware, and fragrances. toys, games,and plush animals.
•a huge selection of Hallmark cards.
•plastic gift cards
•vitamins, minerals, and herbals.
•free gift wrapping.
•prescription service
Open 6 days a week.
WANTED
APRIL 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.
“I’ve spent a lot of time in Atlantic Canada, so I did spend some time in that region just before the election was called.”
She said despite her knowledge of some Atlantic Canada ridings, her colleagues tend to call her a homer, because, “I don’t take the vote in Lakeland for granted. I really want to get out and campaign here and meet my constituents.”
For Stubbs she says campaigning has taken on a different look this time.
“I’ve tried to incorporate more online and video media content in this campaign,” she said. “It’s a deliberate thing we’ve tried to add in to the campaign, but my favourite type of campaigning is still going door knocking and meeting the people.”
“It's the weekly papers that still matter to the local people,” she said.
She added they are found in the home for a
couple of days or in the tractor or in the coffee shops.
She said during the Covid era she learned how to use zoom calls to hold meetings and now that has added that to he repertoire because it allows her to meet more people.
She said she’s hearing at the doors that people would like to see more manufacturing located in Canada so the country could avoid some of the tariffs now being imposed by the U.S. Trump regime.
She said the national campaign is focussed on ways to make Canadians more self reliant in all areas from processing to value added products and manufacturing.
She said she gets frustrated because many of the things people want have been discussed for years, such as the breakdown in provincial trade barriers, but nothing ever happens.
“Pierre has a comprehensive proposal to break some of these barriers down, in terms of reduc-
ing red tape in the area of professional trades,” she said. She said that had been high on the Conservative platform for some time and it’s not something just brought about by threats from the U.S.
“For us it will remain a priority regardless of who is in the White House because what we need to focus on is what we can control as Canadians and that’s in
our own home and backyard.”
She said she agrees with the positions Premier Danielle Smith outlined to Mark Carney and said those are not only Albertans priorities but priorities of the Conservative Party.
She adds emphatically if Conservatives are elected they will get rid of the emissions cap on oil and gas because of its impact on Canada’s economy.
“We’re in an election campaign and the choice for us to take control of our own country and our own economy is now,” she said. “We need to move away from the last decade which is what has made Canada vulnerable to external threats.”
administration as well.”
“They won’t focus on their past record.” The
“What blows my mind and makes me somewhat furious is it’s not just the Republican administration, it can be traced further back to the Obama
“What I hope Canadians will focus on this election is not to be distracted by mainstream media doing anything to oppose the Conservative ideas. Media is focussing on Trump, the Liberals are focussing no Trump yet it is 10 years of Liberals rule that has made the country weak and vulnerable.”
Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Community Services: Serving Lamont County, Lamont, Bruderheim, Mundare, Andrew & Chipman(scan the QR code)
(VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming for full posters, dates, contact information & registration info or call 780-895-2233 for info./registration). Current CALC, FCSS & KFRN and seniors’ activities include:
1. FCSS: Youth Centres in Bruderheim (Tuesdays), Chipman (Mondays), and Mundare. 2. FCSS: Parents and Tots: Andrew/Lamont/Mundare.
3. CALC: My Journey…Who Am I? | English Language Learning | Kitchens Programs | Digital Skills for Seniors.
4. KFRN: Family Activity Night: Free drop-in program (tonight)
6. FCSS (after school) – FLEX for Boys – Bruderheim on Thurs.
5. CALC/FCSS: Parents and Tots – Featuring Ready, Set, GROW!
7. FCSS (after school) – True2You (for Girls) – Lamont on Tues.
8. Welcome to Kindergarten: For children registered with EIPS & attending a kindergarten in the Lamont County Region - Mundare: April 24, Bruderheim: May 28, and Lamont: TBA.
9. KFRN: Moms in Motion – Mundare on Thursdays.
10. Meals In Motion: contract Chrissy at 780-975-9592 to order for APRIL (see full menu at lamontcounty.ca/community-programming).
11. Seniors’ Coffee: 10-11 a.m. (Wed.) in Andrew, & (Thurs.) and in Mundare. Join FCSS for coffee, conversation, snacks, & assistance with senior-related forms/programming. FCSS offers Seniors Supports fr. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Mundare (Thurs.). Seniors Coffee is in St. Michael (Thurs.) from 10 a.m. to noon.
12. Seniors Bus Day Trips: to local malls; $15/trip. Departs: 9 a.m. @ Lamont Rec. Centre: May 18 & June 23. Reserve with Helen at 780-895-7539
Also check out Lamont County Events Calendar for local community events, public meetings and other important dates (lamontcounty.ca/eventscalendar).
To accesscurrent COMMUNITYSERVICES programs and information, scanthe QRcode orfor
To access current COMMUNITY SERVICES programs and information, scan the QR code or for FCSS, CALC & KFRN on each of the services’ Facebook pages. |
Weed Wednesday – REMINDERS of noxious weeds and control. See Lamont County Facebook and X for posters each week. Visit: lamontcounty.ca/weeds for a full list of weeds that are commonly identified across Lamont County. This week’s featured prohibited weed is Himalayan Balsam: abinvasives.ca/fact-sheet/balsam-himalayan Register NOW for the Annual Reeve’s Charity Golf Tournament – lamontcounty.ca/golf. Registration opened April 14!
Lamont County Agricultural Service Board BBQ and Open House: June 5 (more details will be updated in early May –special presentation by the Farmers’ Advocate related to Surface Rights and Recovery of Compensation Processes). National Volunteer Week is April 27-May 3. Lamont County appreciates all volunteers across the region for all that you do! TAX NOTICES SENT EARLY – due to the potential of another postal strike (Canada Post negotiations), Lamont County is sending tax notices early this year. These should be sent to addresses (and received) in early May – two weeks early. Payment is (still) due June 30.
Recent news releases (See Lamont County social media and lamontcounty.ca/news):
o NEWS RELEASE - Lamont County – 2024 Audit Complete.
o Fire Restriction in Effect (April 16)
o Reeve's Annual Charity Golf Tournament - August 21 (Registration is OPEN - April 14).
o NEWS RELEASE – Lamont County Selects Owners Representative in Planning for Process Water Line Take a self-driving CHURCH TOUR in the Cradle of Ukrainian Settlement. Lamont County is the Church Capital of North America: lamontcounty.ca/churchtour. Video, audio and PDF versions of the tour are available online; follow along as you drive the tour. Lamont & District Ag. Society Bullerama Supreme is May 3. Get your tickets now at lamontagsociety.com/bullarama-supreme.
Council and Special Meetings – Coffee with a Councillor
Coffee Talks (Coffee with a Councillor) CLARIFICATION: Starts at 10 a.m. on April 22, at the Andrew Lions Den (Div. 4). And on April 30, starts at 6 p.m. at the Mundare Seniors Centre (Div. 1) lamontcounty.ca/coffeetalks
REGULAR COUNCIL AND Agricultural Service Board (ASB) Meetings
The public is welcome to attend any scheduled meeting in person or virtually). Meetings start at 9 a.m. in Council Chambers/Lamont County Admin. Bldg. (unless otherwise noted).
Next Regular Council Meeting: Tuesday, April 29 | Next ASB meeting: Wednesday, May 14 lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes | lamontcounty.ca/agendas-minutes-asb
Please Note – inFocus is also available for viewing online at: lamontcounty.ca/communications (for those wanting to view the weekly submission as full-sized PDF and to access hyperlinks).
