The Community Press
Battle River-Crowfoot MP Damien Kurek
Battle River-Crowfoot Member of Parliament Damien Kurek has been re-elected for another term following the results of the April 28 Federal Election, receiving a dominant near 82 per cent of the local votes in the riding.
Even without all ballots counted at press time, 65,373 voters in Battle River-Crowfoot went to the polls, an increase from the 58,639 total who voted in 2021. While Kurek was elected with 71 per cent of the votes in 2021, he rose to 81.8 per cent in 2025. Liberal candidate Brent Sutton meanwhile received 11.4 per cent of the vote, NDP James MacKay received 4.4 per cent, People’s Party candidate
Jonathan Bridges 1.6 per cent, and Green’s Douglas Gook just 0.7 per cent.
Following his victory, Kurek put out a statement late Monday evening, saying; “Thank you to Battle River-Crowfoot once again for the honour to serve. My promise to you is that I will work and fight to ensure you continue to be heard in the House of Commons.”
Kurek stated that while the national result did not go as hoped,”Conservatives made massive gains and will work to restore the Canadian promise.”
New Prime Minister Mark Carney, meanwhile, has officially gained a seat in the house, and his Lib-
erals have maintained their minority government in Canada, falling short of a majority (with 169 elected or leading at press time).
In his victory speech, Prime Minister Carney thanked all those who were willing to put their name in to run as a candidate in the election. “Thank you for standing up to serve our country at this critical time.”
Carney also stated that his goal was to implement a government that would work for all Canadians regardless of party affiliation.
“My message to every Canadian is this: no matter Continued on Page 15
Prime Minister Mark Carney
Killam RCMP
Detachment Report for the period of Friday, April 4 to Thursday, April 17
Friday, April 4
A red Dodge welding truck was reported swerving on Highway 36. Vehicle was reported getting gas in Killam. Members were in Forestburg at the time. Unknown plate. Patrols made. Vehicle not located.
Saturday, April 5
Two suspicious subjects were reported walking on TWS 424. Subjects were dropped off in the area as they lived locally.
A complaint was made of a homemade go-cart speeding up and down the street. Members patrolled the area and located the go-cart. Subject was given a warning and it was put away.
Monday, April 7
An abandoned vehicle was reported just outside of Hardisty. No apparent damage, no one seen around the vehicle and vehicle not running. The Registered Owner was contacted and was aware of the truck’s location.
Thursday, April 10th
A report was made of a truck hitting another truck and leaving. The subject vehicle drove into ditches and cans were being thrown out the window. Patrols were made and vehicle not located. File is still under investigation.
A suspicious vehicle was reported in Alliance. Vehicle seen driving around and the complainant felt it was out of place. Patrols made. Vehicle not located.
Friday, April 11
A report was made of a vehicle deliberately driving towards another vehicle while it was being loaded. Subject vehicle came very close to hitting an individual. File is still under investigation.
Complainant called as they gave a Fraudster access to his computer.
Complainant was not out any money and had contacted his bank and was having his computer cleaned. Safety planning was discussed with the complainant.
A break and enter was reported from an unoccupied residence. Member attended residence. No witnesses or suspects.
A fraud of under $5,000 was reported. Complainant was sending etransfers and not receiving the product. File is still under investigation.
Saturday, April 12th
A complaint was made of tires being slashed and a car was spray painted with profanity. Members attended. No witnesses or suspects.
Members responded to
a neighbor dispute in Killam. Threats were made. Subject was arrested and released on an Undertaking with conditions of no contact.
Sunday, April 13
A report was made of an intoxicated driver who left a bar in Forestburg. Members attended and patrolled area. Vehicle not found.
Monday, April 14
A Subject was reported laying on the ground on Highway 13 near Hardisty. Members patrolled Highway 13 and Hardisty. Subject not found.
Tuesday, April 15
A call was received of bones dug up in a yard. Member attended and after consulting with the Medical Examiner, determined they were not human. Complainant to make further inquiries.
Wednesday, April 16
A break and enter was reported at an unoccupied Quonset. Member attended. No one located inside.
Also reported and attended to by Killam RCMP were:
2 - Animal Calls
2 - Assault
1 - Assistance to Canadian Federal Dept/Agency
1 - Assistance to RCMP Agency BC Prime/N.S. Halifax County Versadex
2 - Breach of Peace
1 - Coroner’s Act-Sudden Death
1 – Crime Prevention
1 - False Alarm
1 – Firearms Act
1 – Harassing Communications
4 - Items Lost/Found –except passports
4 - Mental Health Act
1 - Motor Vehicle ActOther Activities (except traffic warnings)
3 - Moving Traffic - Intersection Related ViolationsProvincial/Territorial
12 - Moving Traffic –Speeding Violations
1 – Municipal Bylaws
6 – Other Moving Traffic Violations
4- Other Non-Moving
Statutes (not otherwise specified) - Other Activi-
OPINION
It turns out, big feelings are not just a human problem.
Guest editorial: What my dog taught me about democracy... a kibble at a time
The federal election may be behind us but the bigger questions - about leadership, trust and how we relate to one another - are still hanging in the air. Oddly enough, I’ve found some clarity on those questions not in pundit panels or postmortems, but while trying to train my dog.
Our English Setter, Archie, is undergoing weekly visits with a professional dog behaviourist - a specialist who helps dogs with emotional and behavioural challenges. He’s a beautiful, intelligent, high-energy dog who also happens to carry trauma, manifesting in outbursts, hypervigilance and a startle reflex that can derail an entire day.
In recent weeks, we’ve been instructed to start over with Archie. No walks. No unsupervised freedom. No food bowls. Every piece of kibble must be earned through a calm moment, a deliberate exercise, a trust-building interaction. It’s not punishment - it’s reconditioning. And while the process has been humbling and exhausting, it has also offered a powerful metaphor for human communication, especially in emotionally charged times like these.
Like Archie, many of us are navigating a world that feels unpredictable and overstimulating. It’s easy to fall into reactivity - snapping at a family member, lashing out on social media, dismissing differing viewpoints as ignorant or malicious. But just like dogs, humans function best when there’s structure, emotional safety and time to build trust.
We don’t get there through volume or dominance. We get there through quiet consistency.
As I hand-feed Archie each bite of kibble, I’m reminded that leadershipwhether in politics, business or the home - starts with patience, presence and a willingness to do the unglamorous work of listening and responding, not just reacting.
It might seem like a stretch, but the way we build trust with a reactive animal has striking parallels to how we should approach leadership and civic engagement.
In a time when many Canadians are wrestling with distrust, we question motives, integrity and whether our leaders truly understand the complexity of real human needs. After years of political scandals, inconsistent messaging and policy reversals, it’s no surprise that many Canadians feel disillusioned. And fair enough - many of us have been burned before.
But if we want better leadership, we need to be better followers too. That means valuing emotional maturity over theatrics. It means resisting the urge to respond from fear or frustration alone. And sometimes, like Archie, it means stepping back and relearning how to engage - calmly, without aggression.
After all, the health of a democracy depends not just on the leaders we elect, but on the emotional intelligence of the electorate.
Archie’s journey is far from over. Some days we make progress; others feel like we’re starting from scratch. But each time I meet his gaze and offer one kibble for one moment of calm, I see hope.
If we want to move forward constructively as a country, it won’t take grand gestures - just steady trust-building, one citizen, one conversation at a time.
Troy Media - Faith Wood Faith Wood is a professional speaker, author, and certified professional behaviour analyst. Before her career in speaking and writing, she served in law enforcement, which gave her a unique perspective on human behaviour and motivations.
& 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
Flagstaff Players grateful for supportive community
Flagstaff Players Theatre Society is a small-town community theatre group with a lot of heart. We have been performing live theatre in Sedgewick since the mid 1980s and this season we were proud to present our first musical production, ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.’
The first performances were very well received.
Considering five of our cast members, including our leading lady, were involved in the tragedy of March 28, Flagstaff Players board was forced to cancel the final two performances set to run that evening and the next. With only hours to show time, we had to contact our cast of over 50 actors, as well as over 100 individual ticket holders.
Those calls were often difficult as in a small community many people are affected deeply by such an event. The meal had already been delivered for our guests, so we gathered privately as a cast and crew to grieve, pray and just be together.
That cancellation resulted in many of our patrons requesting the ticket refunds be donated to the Field family. People who had not purchased advanced tickets started asking if they could make financial donations to the Field family through the Flagstaff Players as they were shy about using an online platform. We started accepting funds from local people on behalf of the grieving family, and were deeply touched at the generosity of our caring community.
We hope to perform a pared-down version of the show one more time to honour our lost friend and cast member and her family.
To date we have accepted over $30,000 in donations on behalf of the Fields. This is in addition to the GoFundMe online which has received over $100,000 to support the family.
Thank you to all who have donated, sent prayers and expressed concern both for the family and our group. All of it is very much appreciated.
The Flagstaff Players Theatre Society is grateful for the support received in light of the recent tragedy that hit the Field family.
Flagstaff County celebrating local volunteers during national week
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Flagstaff County is celebrating National Volunteer Week, April 27 – May 3, in a new way this year.
Reeve Don Kroetch says, “At Flagstaff County, Council has always believed that volunteers are at the heart of strong rural communities.
“They help build resilience, create connections, and really shape the quality of life we enjoy here.
“In small communities like ours, volunteers are often the ones quietly making things happen - and we wanted to find a way to say thank you.”
He says this year’s National Volunteer Week theme, “Volunteers Make Waves,” is a natural fit.
“Every little thing volunteers do, big or small, creates ripples that make our region stronger.
“This promotion is just about showing
broad appreciation for the many people who often work behind the scenes but have a big impact.”
The County posted a video on their social media highlighting the contributions that volunteers make in the community. They’ve asked residents to tag and comment on a volunteer who they believe deserves recognition.
Kroetch says, “The idea really just keeps it simple but meaningful. It’s something that the whole community can be part of - something that recognizes volunteers whether they’re part of a formal group or just someone quietly helping out their neighbours.
“There are so many people contributing in different ways, and we need the community’s help to shine a light on all of them.”
There is a small prize, too, that will be drawn randomly from all those volunteers mentioned. “The prize basket is just a little extra fun. Really, it’s all about say-
Fire Restric tion as of May 1
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Flagstaff Regional Emergency Services Society Regional Manager Derek Homme issued a Fire Restriction notice for all municipalities in Flagstaff County, effective May 1.
Due to the restriction, all existing fire permits are suspended and no new permits will be issued.
Fireworks are not allowed during the restriction.
Still allowed are burning barrels equipped with metal mesh screen, safe wood campfires in approved fire pits on private land and in campgrounds, portable propane fire pits, gas and propane stoves and barbeques, including briquettes, catalytic or infrared-style heaters, and pellet-style electric smokers. The restriction remains in effect until further notice.
ing thank you and celebrating the spirit of giving.”
Kroetch says that this year’s Flagstaff Celebrates Success event will also have a new volunteer recognition piece, with details to come closer to the event.
“It’s not meant to feel like a competition, because every act of volunteeringno matter how big or small - deserves recognition.
“Through this, residents will again be invited to help us highlight the people who consistently show up, give back, and make a difference. It’s about celebrating the spirit that makes our region such a great place to live.”
The response to the social media post
has been outstanding, with local residents nominating one another. “It’s great, isn’t it? Seeing people lifting each other up; tagging volunteers and sharing those hearfelt messages. That’s exactly what we were hoping for. It really shows how strong and caring the Flagstaff community is.”
Kroetch adds, “We hope everyone takes a minute to tag a volunteer and help spread even more positivity across the Flagstaff Region.
“Every little act matters and every volunteer helps make our community stronger. We would love to have them all spotlighted!”
Lacrosse Association
Annual General Meeting
Thursday, May 1 at 7pm
At Sedgewick Rec Centre
***We have not had a Lacrosse season for a couple of years. We need to decide on the future of Lacrosse in Flagstaff, including sale of equipment and if the association will remain active or be dissolved.
FIRE RESTRICTION
Alliance United Church packed
This was the week for the women to have a day out. In Stettler the ‘Better Together’ conference took place on Wednesday. Since we enjoyed it so much last year, it was a given to attend this year but I had other commitments.
Rose Marie Wickstrom, Karin McCracken, and Riitta Johnson attended this year. There were choices of short courses to take. Karin took in MOT therapy which she really enjoyed. Riitta and Rose Marie took different singing sessions which they found excellent.
The singing bowls was most relaxing. I am going to make sure I go next year.
The Women’s Conference in Killam also had mini courses called cracker barrels. I took one on fermenting foods. That was the best carrot pickles I have ever had. Mocktails was also very interesting. Besides hearing about the harmful effects of alcohol, we learned to make some great mocktails, fancy drinks with no alcohol. There was time to do a couple of other courses too. Julia Feltham came with me; she took other
courses. It was a great day.
I met some interesting ladies at the conference in Killam.
Josephine and Loretta are nurses from Nigeria who work in Hardisty and Summer is from China, now living in Sedgewick.
Laura Johnson from Forestburg was also there. She is setting up a browser to help small businesses.
Saturday was another conference for me. I attended the Stony Plain WI Constituency Conference.
I gave a report on my work as Coordinator for Area Canada ACWW. Betty Sherry was sitting at the table with me. She used to live at Brownfield.
The educational portion was instructions on how to preserve photos and records. We were encouraged to submit them to the Provincial Archives. The WI section is one of the largest collections at the Archives. Photos going to the Archives really need to have the names of the people, the event and date. Another past president and me were given two photos with a request to name the subjects. We got most of them.
There were 21 in the congregation to hear Gordon Cunningham give the message. His
wife, Mary Ellen, certainly added to the enjoyment with her lovely singing. A prayer shawl was blessed to be passed on to a friend in need of thoughts and prayers.
It was knit by Laura Towers over eight years ago and given to me when I lost Peter. It was most comforting. Then when Laura lost Denny, I took it to church and we blessed it again and gave it to Laura. She now is ready to pass it on again. I hope the new recipient finds it as helpful as Laura and I did. There are pictures on the internet of WI groups around the world who have completed their Women Walk the World, walk. Argyle does ours on
Tuesday. Watch for us. We certainly welcome donations, which go to the Rural Women Empowerment Fund.
There were three projects funded last year. In Tanzania a program to reach the unreached and address public health issues focused on young women 15-24 years of age. There was also an educational course to Empower women in marginalized communities.
For just over £7,000 British pounds, 50 Dalit women in Tamil Nadu India learned sustainable agriculture. Most of their plots are less than an acre but they were able to feed their family and sell some produce.
Plan to attend a presentation by Taylin Morton, Solar Specialist, from Phase3 Electric
Wednesday, April 30 - 7pm Heisler Rec Centre
Learn about residential, commercial, and agricultural applications of solar panels Sponsored by the Heisler Ag Society
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
May 2 & 3 @ 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 4 @ 2 pm MATINEE
(Matinee Only on Sundays)
MINECRAFT
PG. Fantasy/Adventure
Jason Momoa, Emma Myers, Jack Black
May 9 & 10 @ 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 11 @ 2 pm MATINEE
(Matinee Only on Sundays)
WORKING MAN
14A. Language, Violence
Jason Statham, Arianna Rivas
May 16 & 17 @ 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 18 @ 2 pm MATINEE
(Matinee Only on Sundays)
THE AMATEUR
PG. Violence. Thriller. Rachel Brosnahan, Rami Malek
GHOSTLIGHT
14A. Comedy/Drama Keith Kupferer, Tara Mallen
May 23 & 24 @ 7:30 pm
(Matinee Only on Sundays)
**REEL ALTERNATIVE**
Monday, May 19 @ 7:30 pm
Wednesday, May 21 @ 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 25 @ 2 pm MATINEE
HE LEGEND OF OCHI PG. Adventure/Fantasy Helena Zengel, Willem Dafoe
May 30 & 31 @ 7:30 pm Sunday, June 1 @ 2 pm MATINEE
(Matinee Only on Sundays) DROP 14A. Drama/Mystery Meghann Fahy, Brandon Sklenar Movie Tickets: Adults $10, Seniors & Students $8, Children 3-11 $5. Family $25.
-High grain and forage yield
2-Row Malt Barley:
CDC Copeland - Strong demand by malting companies
Many activities for Golden Prairie 4-H Club members
Sasha Weiss Club Reporter
On April 16, the Golden Prairie 4-H club held a meeting. The pledge was led by Eva and Joelle. There were 15 members present.
All members that were there answered the roll call: “What are your plans for Easter?”
Reports were given: The treasurer’s report was presented by Noah Toews. The secretary, Simone Eshpeter, read her minutes from the March meeting.
The club reporter, Sasha Weiss, wrote her report and sent it to The Community Press. She also wrote a report on the Regional Public Speaking which was hosted by the Golden Prairie Club on March 23 in Forestburg.
New and Old Business: The club received a $250 donation from ATB Financial. Laura Zwack presented the notes from the last District Meeting.
The club trip date is May 25 and will be at Activate in Edmonton.
Highway cleanup will be on May 3, meet in Forestburg at 9 a.m.
Tire Recycling will be May 10 along with busking Achievement Day props-
making session.
The Forestburg bottle drive for the library was on April 17. The Heisler Pork Chop Supper, where club was asked to wash dishes, was on April 16.
Rainier, Sasha, and Julia presented on the March Fun Club night that was held on March 14 at the Heisler Rec Centre for archery and bowling.
The Seniors symposium is the first weekend in May at Olds College for Senior members.
The Heisler Archery Club asked the club if we are interested in selling popcorn for their outdoor event on July 26; we decided to table the discussion until the next meeting.
Achievment Day is Saturday, June 7 at the Forestburg Hall. Set up will be completed by the busking group the night before.
Wavy Lake 4-H is hosting Sid-Walker night Monday, June 9. Members presented on their individual projects: Foods, Small Engines, Woodworking, Canine, Creative options: Welding and Photography, Train modeling, and Busking.
The next meeting will be held May 14, at the Forestburg Train station.
Golden Prairie 4-H Club members are working on their projects for the upcoming
presented on his Small Engines Project during the April 16 club meeting.
Sale ends 11:59 pm on May 15
Sale ends 11:59 pm on May 15
Achievement Day, scheduled for Saturday, June 7. Above, Thomas Eshpeter
Hardisty Rodeo’s ‘Spring Fling’ another big success
Well hello folks. Were you all glued to your TV (Monday night), to see what party will be leading Canada for the next four years?
Boy, it has been quite a ride. Personally, I am glad that that the two main parties are going to rule our country and the Liberals only won as a minority government. Hopefully two great minds and parties will continue to keep Canada as a strong, independent country and a major player on this planet, called Earth. Continue to be a proud Canadian!
Lori and Ed Goodrich are happy to announce
that they are great grandparents. Their son Darcy is now a grandfather. How exciting. Darcy’s daughter, Baylee and Robert Newby welcomed Oliver, Everett, Newby on Saturday April 26th. A healthy baby boy weighing six lb and 12 ounces. Big congratulations to everyone. I was doing a little channel surfing and came upon one of those Canadian afternoon talk shows. I could not believe my ears, but they had a lady that was discussing male contraceptive practises. Naturally I just had to listen to this topic. I thought that topic meant condoms or not finishing your love event? Hmmm? Well not anymore. Now they have a contraceptive cream that a man rubs on his shoulder before the
love session and it inhibits pregnancy. These ladies thought it was quite unfair that women have always gone to great lengths to deter pregnancy. They see their family Doctor or Gynaecologist to insert an intrauterine device. This can be quite uncomfortable to insert up into your uterus or you take the birth control pills (hormones) which can also have different side effects or there is always controlling your sexual urges when your hormones might be raging.
Heck, this sounds like a whole lot of work compared to rubbing some cream on your shoulder and telling your honey not to worry because you are safe and won’t get her pregnant. WOW! I will have to do a little re-
LAND FOR SALE BY TENDER
South Fork Ranches Inc, hereby offers the following parcels of land in Flagstaff County (near Hardisty, Alberta) for sale by tender.
Linc.: 0023 651 847
1. The North East Quarter of Section 16 Township Forty Two (42) Range Ten (10)
East of the Fourth Meridian, in the said Province Containing 160 Acres more or less Shown on Road Plan 6063BM Excepting thereout all mines and minerals. 16 various-sized granaries with approx. 18,583 bushels of storage and Telus Tower that pays out a yearly payment.
The property is south of Hardisty on the Airport Rd. There is about 88.99 Crop land and 41.11 Pastureland.
Linc.: 0010 838 597
2. The South East Quarter of Section 22 Township Forty Two (42) Range ten (10)
East of the Fourth Meridian, in the said Province Containing 159 Acres more or less Excepting thereout all mines and minerals. The property is South of Hardisty on the Airport Road. There is about 63.2 Crop land and 95.8 Pastureland.
For further particulars please contact Trudy Kueber at 780-458-8725 or email: tdkueber@gmail.com
Tenders are to be submitted in writing, with legal description of the property and emailed to tdkueber@gmail.com. Tenders must be received by 5 p.m. on May 1, 2025 to be considered.
No conditional tenders will be accepted and the highest, or any tender, will not necessarily be accepted.
The successful Tenderer shall be obligated to complete the purchase on or before May 22, 2025 (the closing date).
Vendor makes no warranties or representations about the property’s size, condition, or environmental state. The properties are being sold “as is, where is.”
search and see what else they have for men now. Are you intrigued?
I was chatting with Henry Hays and asking how the Spring Fling went on Saturday evening. Henry was their auctioneer, as he has been for many years, and felt it was a successful auction. The crowd was a bit smaller but very supportive and enthusiastic. Fun was had by all and they had a wonderful dance band.
Our population might be declining a bit but darn it, Hardisty, always steps up to the plate to support our wonderful rodeo. Plus, listening to auctioneers like Henry Hays or the likes of Dale Jones makes everyone
chuckle and open their pocketbook. We can’t wait for the rodeo in July.
Lots of farmers are gearing down with the spring calving season and getting their seeders and tractors in ship shape for seeding. Hope we get enough moisture this year.
The Matthews crew had our delayed Easter get-together at our farm. We were treated to a large brisket that our son Harley and our grandson, Drake, babied overnight till Sunday afternoon. The meat was heavenly and when it was cooked slow and low with numerous spices it was divine. Beats a steak any day and also cheaper.
We had lots of other yummy food items but I must say this brisket was the meat highlight. Jess’s lemon cookies and Ruth’s buttertarts disappeared rather quickly too. Thanks to all the food contributors. By the way the meal was totally low calorie... tee hee... just kidding!
Thought of the week... “The greatest wealth is health.”...Virgil.
“Heh, do you think the jeans on her, make me look fat?”
”Of course not, honey,” said the intelligent husband.
Have a fabulous week and please contact me with some news... thank you... Ricci
ROADSIDE BRUSH & WEED CONTROL PROGRAM
Camrose County will be spraying along County Roadsides for the control of brush and weeds commencing June 1st. Spraying will not be done in front of building sites. The brush control program will be undertaken for safety, ease of snow removal and site line improvement.
Persons must complete an "Agreement for the Restricted Use of Herbicides for Brush & Weed Control in Sensitive Areas" and must POST Camrose County "DO NOT SPRAY AREA" signs prior to May 30th, 2025.
Agreements are available on Camrose County website - www.county.camrose.ab.ca
DO NOT SPRAY SIGNS are available for purchase at: Camrose County Agricultural Service Office 4238-37 St., Camrose AB T4V 5B2 780-672-4765 asb@county.camrose.ab.ca
COUNTY ROADSIDE PROGRAM
The County recognizes that certain individuals wish to harvest the roadside vegetation for hay; if you wish to harvest the roadside vegetation you must contact Public Works office at 780-672-4449 prior to May 30th, 2025 and identify these locations.
Killam Public School’s budding scientists hold a fair
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Killam Public School’s elementary students, along with some Junior High students, participated in a Science Fair this past Thursday, April 24.
There was a huge variety of science experiments, from how to make a lava lamp to batteries made out of potatoes, and everything in between.
The event was open to the general public, and many parents, grandparents, and other visitors toured the gym to look at the wide variety of projects on display. In some cases, junior high students assisted elementary students with their projects.
KPS Teacher Kelsie Armitage says, “There was a wide variety of projects with so many unique ones I did not predict.”
Karl had a detailed display and presentation about deer antlers during the Science Fair at Killam Public School on Thursday.
Braiden made magnetic slime that actually moved when a magnet was nearby.
Lennox had a display showing the cycle of wheat from seed to the grocery store. Owen built a lie-detector machine that measured sweaty hands with an alarm.
Barrett had a homopolar spinning motor display that wowed visitors.
Invitation to Tender - Bridge Repair
Flagstaff County invites bids for the following tenders:
Bridge Repair Tender #07692-25
This project focuses on Bridge File No. 07692, located 7 km northeast of Killam on Twp Rd 450.
Bridge Repair Tender #75491-25
This project is aimed at addressing maintenance needs for Bridge File No. 75491, situated 30 km south of Hardisty on Twp Rd 410. For more information, please visit: www.flagstaff.ca/opportunities/tenders
Women’s Conference focuses on connection
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
The Women’s Conference took place in Killam last Thursday, April 24, and the focus on this year’s event was connection.
While introducing guest speaker Carolyn Klassen, Flagstaff Community Adult Learning Coordinator Lois Polege said that when the search for a speaker began, organizers were looking for a sense of connection. She added, “I know we’re going to be challenged and inspired and have a lot of fun.”
Klassen hails from Winnipeg. She has a degree in Occupational Therapy and a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Klassen’s slogan is ‘Wired for Connection,’ and during the morning session she spoke about the difficulty of making friendships in adulthood, giving an example of a friend she made when her husband abruptly left their marriage.
Klassen participated in a TedX event where she made an analogy between people and Sequoia trees. She explains that while the trees themselves rise hundreds of metres into the sky, the roots go a mere metre to a metre-anda-half into the ground.
“But here’s the thing,” she explains, “The trees only survive in a grove, and they weave their roots together to make a stronger base.
“We as people are the same; we need connection, or we die.”
Klassen says that humans are, “Wired for connection. We need each other to survive and thrive.”
Klassen says that science has recently discovered that people with better social connections reduce their risk of early death, and that people without social interaction have the same negative effects as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, worse than being obese or not exercising.
Klassen told the audience of over 120 women that loneliness spiked in 2012, noting that was when more than half the world owned smart phones for the first time.
She says the pandemic made it worse for people who were lacking connections, and that society is still recovering from that.
Klassen noted that when older structures have joists that start to fail, new joists are nailed to the old, called ‘sister joists.’
“I like the sounds of that,” she said,
“I like the name ‘sister’ joists. We support each other when the load gets too heavy.”
Klassen says our own self-image can sometimes get in the way of us opening ourselves up to new relationships.
“It’s hard for everyone,” she says. “Notice the story you are telling yourself.”
Klassen offers a five-module course called ‘TheLonelinessCourse.com’ with lessons on self-awareness that can help connect with others.
“Sometimes we are connecting the dots without realizing that we are adding information that isn’t there,” she said, giving an example of giving a talk in front of a small group of people where one of them was making faces and scowling during the presentation, causing her to think that it was in reaction to what she was saying. She said in talking with the person after the presentation, she found out that her reaction had nothing to do with what Klassen was saying at all. “But if I hadn’t talked to her about it, I wouldn’t have realized that.”
She quoted world-renowned inspirational speaker Brené Brown, saying, “‘I’m not enough,’ is one of my go-to narratives when I’m hurt.”
Klassen said it’s easy to see rejection in others if that’s what you expect to see.
She encourages people to be their own best friends first, to be real with themselves before seeking friendship with others. She notes, “It’s hard for everyone.
“Notice the story you are telling yourself. We are wired for story; we are meaning-makers.”
Klassen says loneliness isn’t about not being around people, it’s more about not sharing anything that matters with anyone else.
She says that being vulnerable and trusting others with our stories is the only way to make a connection. “Courage, by definition, requires fear.”
After a short mid-morning break, Klassen continued her session, this time with an activity for all to participate in.
She asked audience members to anonymously answer a series of personal questions on post-it notes, numbered 1 through six, but unsigned. She then asked everyone to share the answers on each question by posting the post-its on a poster with the corresponding question number.
After doing so, Klassen then asked the entire room to take a few moments and read the answers at each poster where the post-it notes anonymously appeared.
Many in the audience found this to be a very moving experience. The common thread during a discussion
afterwards was the discovery that everyone had some fear about coming to the event, and many had the same fears.
The day’s master of ceremonies, Joanne McMahon, thanked Klassen for her talk, and called everyone to lunch.
After lunch, a fashion show was held by vendor Jody Shipton and her local models, which has traditionally been very popular with attendees, and was again this year.
Then the Cracker Barrel sessions started. These are informative sessions of varying lengths that are limited to a smaller number of participants, and come in a variety of subjects.
Two of this year’s session were a full 75 minutes, and were “Union: The Art of Adult Friendship,” and a Scam Presentation with Julie Matthews, which was sponsored by FIRST.
There were also shorter sessions, of
35 minutes, covering topics like: Empowering Wellness Through Self-Massage; Fermenting Vegetables, Cozy Conversation Chat Corner with Klassen; Connection through Social Media; What’s the Big Deal about Sourdough?; Cactus Cuts Crafts; and Taste some Mocktails.
During the breaks, attendees were also encouraged to shop at one of the many vendors who had tables set up, selling a wide variety of goods, or offering information.
Attendees were enthusiastic about the day afterwards, organizers say, with compliments ranging from the food to any of the variety of presentations to take in.
This year’s event also featured 13 guests who are newcomers to the area; newcomers are provided with free tickets during their first year in the region.
Stronger Together Women's Conference by Flagstaff
Community Adult Learning
We gratefully acknowledge those who made this event a success:
Sponsors: Battle River Implements, The James Insurance Group, Karen Cannady and Flagstaff County Keynote: Carolyn Klassen
Crackerbarrels: Julie Matthews - sponsored by FIRST, Kerri Lorenson, Shirley Damberger, Cheryl Frost, Trisha Muirhead, Jodi Perry, Jen Willes with FASD, Christina Harvey with AHS. Jodi Shipton and her models for the Fashion Show.
Thank you to our volunteers, vendors, and everyone attending. It is wonderful to have such awesome support from so many. Your generosity has touched the lives of one hundred and thirty women!
Thank you so much,
The Women's Conference Committee 2025
Carolyn Klassen was the keynote speaker at last Thursday’s Women’s Conference in Killam, talking about the importance of connecting with others.
Continued from Front
where you live, no matter what language you speak, no matter how you voted, I will always do my best to represent everyone who calls Canada home.”
The 2025 Canadian Federal Election was one for the record books, as the Conservative Party and Liberal Party both made gains, mostly at the expense of the NDP, who have lost official party status, having fallen short of the 12-MP minimum in the house.
Despite being unable to top the Liberals, the Conservatives gained 25 seats in the house from 2021 with 144. The Liberal Party gained nine seats from 2021 with 169. The Bloc Québécois lost 10 seats, the NDP lost 18 seats, and the Green Party lost one seat.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh both lost in their ridings, which is likely to bring about new faces and changes in leadership going forward. Bloc leader Yves-François Blanchet was re-elected in his riding as was Elizabeth May, the sole Green Party candidate in all of Canada to be elected.
As of Tuesday afternoon, without all ballots being as yet counted, the number of votes cast nation-wide was already up well over 2,000,000 from the previous federal election.
With threats of annexation and increased tariffs from US President Donald Trump, voter engagement was expected to be high. Advanced voting in particular saw large increases in most ridings.
In fact, we’ve been serving rural Alberta communities for 75 years. Our credit union launched in 1950 with $128, 21 members and a mission to help our neighbours and our communities. It’s still our mission today. That’s why we return 75% of Vision’s profits to our members, why we provide full-service banking in underserved rural communities, and why we make contributing to charitable causes in our hometowns a priority. Learn how Vision supports our members and our communities.
Battle River Art Club holds annual Show and Sale in Sedgewick
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
The Battle River Art Club members came together on Saturday, April 26 at the Sedgewick Community Hall for their annual Show and Sale.
During the event, local artists display their artwork, some for sale.
With the hall full of upright display boards, each filled with artwork, it’s a kaleidoscope of colour and subject mat-
ter that is a celebration of local talent.
This year many artists also displayed their work from a pastel class held in early April, with visitors remarking on how the same scene could be interpreted differently but still come out with pleasing results.
The club had a few new faces this year, and those members commented on how they liked the show format, and the opportunity to meet their fellow artists and members of the public.
The Battle River Art Club annual Show and Sale was held in Sedgewick on Saturday, April 26 at the Community Hall, where 19 artists, some of them new members, showed their best pieces off. Around 75 visitors came through the hall to admire the local artists’ work. Above group shot: Back row from left: Brenda DeKock, Naomi Grindlay, Leslie Cholowsky, Murray Cholowsky, Denise Schweitzer, Leola Forster, Belinda Zwack, Jane Kelly, Bonnie Rempel, Gerry Coghill. Middle row: Jayne Odegard, Betty Klein, Christine McMullen, Jaki Sherman, Judy McDermott. Front row: Bonnie Ell, Kristin Kueber, Ronda Johnson, Auna-Lee Stevenson.
Faith: Transforming Friendships
“A man who has friends must himself by friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24 (NKJV)
Got any friends? I mean, real friends, not just acquaintances. Some of the most meaningful relationships we have are those friendship where we can just be ourselves.
Not everyone can handle those honest, real feelings and heart-felt words that often slip out in conversation. Being real can make others uncomfortable. But a real friend can handle the awkward.
Friendships help to make life beautiful and enjoyable. Many friendships can be life-changing and transforming. Real friendships can help us transform a bad experience into something very good. A transforming friendship can change a life.
The apostle Paul had a few really good friends that stuck close to him in ministry. In Colossians 4:7-9, Paul talks briefly about his friends, “Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. I am sending him to you for the express purpose that you may know
Rambling about Wellness
by Dr. Henry Orewa - Daysland
“When the roots are deep, there’s no reason to fear the wind.” -Yoruba proverb They say every journey begins with a single step, and you never succeed if you don’t try. This essay is my first step toward fulfilling my oldest wish: to bring joy and happiness to people’s lives through stories and shared experiences. I hope this inaugural edition encourages you to read, to smile, and to become more eager to nurture your own wellbeing.
Today’s world presents countless challenges, but the one I find most puzzling is how easily we can drift from happiness into loneliness. Fear, nightmares, mistrust, and the scary stories we share can become our culturecrowding out the good thoughts that help us perceive the world more positively.
Have you ever watched two- or three‑year‑olds playing alone in a room full of toys? At first, each plays independently. Then they play togetheruntil a disagreement breaks out. A toy is thrown, a yell echoes through the room, and both children dash to their parents.
about our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts.
He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here.”
We all need friendships like this - people who believe in us and stand with us and speak well of us when around others. These friendships were transforming for Paul in his ministry.
Something else about friendships; a transforming friendship can build a life. When Paul was new in the ministry, he had a friend named Barnabas who believed in him when other people did not. When trust was an issue, Barnabas stood at Paul’s side. The encouragement that Barnabas gave inspired Paul to continue on and Paul soon became a leader and missionary.
Do you have a transforming friendship? Are you one who is transforming a friendship of another? I have one like that today. Pastor Ben Kellert is a friend like that.
Rev. Douglas Webb Sedgewick Community Church of the Nazarene
Rooted in
Support: A Reflection on Everyday Wellbeing
What follows is a hilarious tangle of rambling explanations that make no sense to anyone else… and both children receive apologies they didn’t even earn. Then comes the best part: they run back inside, hug, and resume playing as if nothing ever happened.
That simple cycle - play, conflict, reconciliation - inspires me every day to reach out for support when I feel overwhelmed.
Reflect, for a moment, on your own supports:
-Do you have people you can turn to? If not, could building those connections improve your life?
-When you feel like you’re drowning, do you run toward your supports?
-Are you open to creating new ones?
The answers usually lie within usand in our willingness to put ourselves out there.
Always remember: our supports build our strong roots, and those roots nourish our mental wellbeing.
Dr Henry. C. Orewa Dr. Orewa practices family medicine at the Daysland Medical Clinic, and has a passion for mental wellness
OBITUARIES
Marie Monique Arsenault Kahlert
Marie Monique Arsenault Kahlert December 5, 1948April 13, 2025
Marie Monique Arseneault Kahlert of Killam, Alberta passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side on Sunday, April 13, 2025.
Left to mourn Monique is her husband Chris; sons Jeffrey (Elaine), Thomas (Kym) and Paul (Jillian); 11 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, and one
great-grandchild to be born in July.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 3, at Weber's Mount Pleasant Chapel in Camrose. Memorial donations may be made to the Zebra Centre or to the charity of one's choice.
CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS
COMING EVENTS
The Lougheed Fair is looking for Volunteers for Food Booths, Cattle Show, or any area volunteers choose. Please contact Iris at 780-385-0752 or Stacey at 780-385-4703. Exhibitor Books will soon be in a store near you!
The Viking Historical Society annual cleanup at the Viking Museum will take place on May 3/25, beginning at 10 a.m. If it is raining or too blustery, we will postpone until May 10. Bring gloves, rakes, etc. Lunch will be provided. Everyone welcome.
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
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
COMING EVENTS
Flagstaff Family Day Homes
Annual General Meeting
Tuesday, May 6th, 2025 6:30 pm
At the FFCS Building 4809-49th Avenue Killam, Alberta
Viking Healthcare Auxiliary is holding 3RD ANNUAL SPRING STRAWBERRY TEA
Thursday, May 22, 2025 From 2 to 5 pm
At Viking Legion Hall $5.00 tea, cake, Strawberries
Time for Tea with the Bride to Be Please join us to celebrate Chelsey Teers, bride elect of Landon Bechthold . Saturday, May 10th @ The Lougheed Senior's Centre from 1-4 pm. Chelsey is registered at myregistry.com
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
COMING EVENTS
PRAGUE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
ANNUAL GENERAL HALL MEETING
Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 2 PM at the Prague Hall Beverages and snack served
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
The Lougheed Ag Society is accepting Applications for 2025 Recreation Grants DEADLINE IS May 7, 2025 at 5 p.m. Send Applications to: Lougheed Ag Society PO Box 305 Lougheed, AB T0B 2V0 Eligible applicants need to comply with Rec Grant as requested by Flagstaff County. For further information and to see therequirements, check out the Flagstaff County website.
COMING EVENTS
Birdhouse Building! Bring your kids/grandkids and make a beautiful home for a flying friend. All supplies and instructions provided. Sunday, May 4 at the Sedgewick United Church at 10 am. Register at 780-385-5856
FUNDRAISER
Chemo Care Hydration Packages. $55 buys one and Sonya donates one. Includes: Night Cream, Lip Balm and Foot Lotion. The goal is 300 pkgs by June 30. See Sonya Martens at the Tofield Market Friday, May 9th & 23rd. www.MaryKay.ca/smartens or call 780-240-4605.
FOR SALE
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.
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. 403820-0961. Quality guaranteed.
GARAGE SALE
Two Seniors continuing to downsize. Elna sewing machine in beautiful wooden cabinet, large L-shaped twotiered glass-topped desk. Three-drawer bureau, indoor fluorescent grow lamp, carpet cleaner, food dehydrators, Mehu-Liisa Juice Extractor. Unique salt and pepper collection, electric snow thrower, CD's, rolling plastic cabinets, canning supplies, miscellaneous golf goodies, plus tools and other miscellaneous items.
#20 Canary Crescent, Sedgewick. Friday, May 2 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, May 3 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Garage Sale
May 3 & 4, 2025
5520 43 St, Lamont, AB. 9 am - 3 pm, weather permitting. Coffee table, reclining couch, planer, lots of puzzles & more.
Estate & Garage Sale
4701-51 Ave Sedgewick
Friday, May 2 12-7 Saturday, May 3 10-7 Sunday, May 4 10-3 Wide selection of household goods, vintage/antique items, sporting goods, small appliances, extensive costume jewellery collection, succulents
GARAGE SALE
CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS
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
Multi-family Garage Sale May 1-3. Thursday/Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 to 5:30 p.m. 14365 TWP 444, look for signs on Hiway 13 between Strome & Killam. Lots of items including household, camping, lawn and garden, toys, books, etc.
BUILDINGS FOR SALE
Integrity Post Frame Buildings since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-9747678 integritybuilt.com.
SEED FOR SALE
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.
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.
FOR RENT
2 Bedroom, large, clean, non-smoking suite in Killam. Available June 1. Call Chuck at 780-263-7290
2+2 bedroom farmhouse north of Killam. Call Deanna @ 403 783 5347 for details.
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. 1-844-453-5372.
SERVICES
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
CLUES
SERVICES
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.
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
ACROSS
1. Racquet sports association
4. Places to sleep
8. Native American tribe
10. Small platforms
11. Egg shape
12. Running out
13. French painter
15. Some are “of the Caribbean”
16. Painful intestinal problem
17. More irritated
18. Prove yourself
21. Catch
22. Supplement with difficulty
23. American automotive giant
CLUES DOWN
1. Consisting of uncombined atoms
2. Island country
3. Heavenly body
4. Caribbean island
5. Copyread
6. A place to eat
7. Drops down
9. Native group of Alaska
10. Engage in
12. “Desperate Housewives” lane
14. Thyroid-stimulating hormone
15. Foot (Latin)
17. A place to bathe
19. Animosities 20. Partner to cheese
24. Form of “to be”
25. Boxing’s GOAT
26. Peyton's little brother
27. Eli’s big brother
34. Capable of producing
35. Reproductive structures in fungi
36. Allowed to go forward
37. Smiles
38. Arteries
39. VVV
40. Win a series without losing a game
41. This (Spanish)
42. Opposites of beginnings
43. Germanic mythological god
23. Venus __, plant 24. A donation
25. Pokes holes in the ground
26. Midway between northeast and east
27. Looked into
28. Not young
29. Annoy constantly
30. Something one can strike
31. Most glacial
32. Ten less than one hundred
33. Idle talker
34. Has moved through the air
36. Container for shipping
KILLAM DENTURE CLINIC
More Science Fair entries from Killam Public School
Ambrose had a mysterious substance he called Oobleck from the Dr. Suess universe! Is it a solid? Is it a liquid? It’s both!
Ava showed off some carnations with coloured petals thanks to capillary
Brandon displayed how to make home-made boba balls that you could actually eat.
Taizley created a homemade lava lamp on the spot. Barrett had some outstanding examples of freezedried fruit, including some banana slices to eat. Will used three potatoes as batteries to power a light and voltage meter.
action.
These four budding scientists showed what happens when you saturate water with sugar and it forms crystals.
. T
2010 GMC Topkick S/A Sanding Truck w/ Hi-Way C202XT Sanding
Peterbilt T/A Dually Garbage Truck
GMC 5500 S/A Dump Truck Freightliner T/A Grain Truck w/ Bunk
T/A Diesel Grain Truck w/
T/A
T/A
Truck
2012 International Durastar S/A Cab & Chassis
2005 Freightliner S/A Cab & Chassis
2006 GMC C8500 T/A Cab & Chassis V
Ram 3500 4x4 Crew Cab Long Box
Dually Truck - Long Horn Edition
GMC 3500 HD 4x4 Crew Cab Service Truck
GMC 3500 4x4 Ext Cab Truck w/ Diesel & Welding Deck
Ford Rancher 4x4 Ext Cab Trucks
2018 Chev Express Bus
Plus A Hugh Assortment of Trucks & Equipment To Numerous to Mention Assortment of Skid Steer & 3 pth Attachment & Accessories
Assortment of Portable Toliets Listings
Subject to Additions & Deletions
