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S c o t t ish Fe s t i v al keeps ge t t ing be t t er Scottish Festival keeps getting better
Ally Anderson Staff Reporter
The seventh annual Gathering of the Clans Highland Festival drew large crowds to Sedgewick on Saturday, Aug. 23. From morning until night, the grounds were buzzing with guests, many dressed in tartan and kilts, alongside vendors, entertainers, and the unmistakable sound of bagpipes and drums.
For many across Flagstaff County and beyond, this unique celebration has become the highlight of the late-summer season. Longtime attendees say they mark their calendars each year for the Flagstaff Scottish Club’s events, eager to enjoy a full day of Scottish culture and community.
Opening ceremonies began with the massed Pipe and Drum bands, who marched from Prairie Rose Place around the block with an RCMP escort. Dan Fee officially welcomed the crowd and introduced a lineup of speakers. Former Battle River–Crowfoot MP Damien Kurek shared greetings on behalf of newly
elected MP Pierre Poilievre, who was unable to attend. MLA Jackie Lovely visited later in the day after attending another event.
Also taking the stage were Flagstaff Scottish Club Chieftain David Samm and Sedgewick Mayor Stephen Levy, officially kicking off the festivities.
The kids’ zone featured new attractions this year, including a bale maze with activity stations in each section. Families also enjoyed axe throwing, the ever-popular mini-golf course, inflatable bouncy houses, and a money sand pit.
Heavy events ran throughout the day, with both amateur and professional competitors showing off their strength and skill. Meanwhile, the Scottish beasties in the livestock area drew plenty of admirers. Highland cattle were the stars of the pen, joined by red and black Angus, miniature Highland cows, and an assortment of Scottish dog breeds, from towering Irish Wolfhounds to cuddly Dandie Dinmont and Scottish Terriers.
The vendor village reached maximum capacity in-
doors and out, offering everything from baked goods to custom knives. Food and beverage vendors kept the crowd well-fed and refreshed throughout the day.
One of the main highlights was the auction of a yearling Highland steer named Hobie, donated by Roger and Judy Ferrier, with 100 percent of proceeds going to the Flagstaff Scottish Club.
Bidding was lively, with Anchor K Highland Coos winning the first round at $2,400. Owners Keegan and Mackenzie Miller then generously donated Hobie back for a second auction. Elias White took the steer home with a $1,750 bid, joking afterward, “My wife gave me permission to bid, but didn’t tell me how much.”
As the sun set, the festival wrapped up with an energetic Ceilidh. Bands from earlier in the day returned to the stage before Battle River Pipes and Drums performed. Cabot’s Crossing closed out the evening, getting the crowd on their feet to dance the night away.
The Community Press office will be CLOSED Monday, August 5 for the Civic Holiday. We will reopen Tuesday, Aug. 6 at 9 a.m. and our next edition will still be published Wedneday. Aug. 7 Ad deadlines will be noon Tuesday, Aug. 6
The Rafflebox 50/50 draw rounded out the night, with the winner walking away with $4,095.
Killam RCMP Report for the period of Friday, Aug. 15 to Friday, Aug. 21
Friday, Aug. 15
A suspicious person was reported in Forestburg. Appeared to be a person laying in a sleeping bag on the school grounds. Member attended and asked the Subject to leave. Subject complied.
Member attended a dispute in Strome between a property owner and a contractor. Member mediated between the conflict between the two parties and advised that their issues were civil and not criminal in nature. Subject left the property.
Saturday, Aug. 16
A suspicious truck was reported to be in the parking lot of the Daysland grocery store. Keys were left in the ignition. Vehicle was recovered. No witnesses or suspects.
Complainant called in to report her ex was watching her Social Media posts. Member completed safety planning and referrals to ensure their safety. No offence committed.
A report was made of a suspicious person sleeping on the side of the road in Forestburg. Member attended. Subject was gone. Patrols made. Subject not located.
There was a noise complaint made in Daysland. Member attended. Music was off. Member warned the Subject about the noise bylaw.
When cleaning out items left by past residents at his house the Complainant found a stun gun. Member attended the residence and removed the weapon. It will be destroyed.
exposing himself to a young girl walking by. Cameras in the area being canvassed. File is still under investigation.
Member initiated a traffic stop with a speeding vehicle in a residential community. MAS (Mandatory Alcohol Screening) issued and was refused. Driver was also suspended. Driver released on an Appearance Notice and charged. Vehicle towed.
Also reported and attended to by Killam RCMP were:
4 - 911 Act
1 - Animal Calls
1 – Assistance to Canadian Police (non-RCMP)
1 - Assistance to Canadian Provincial/Territorial Dept/Agency
2 - Breach of Peace
1 – Coroner’s Act –Sudden Death
1 – Failure to attend court or surrender
2 – Harassing Communications
1 – Crime Prevention
1 – Items Lost/Found
– except passports
3 – Mental Health Act
1 – Mischief to motor vehicle
3- Moving Traffic – Intersection Related
1 - Moving Traffic –Speeding Violations
2 – Municipal Bylaws
1 – Other Moving Traffic Violations
2- Other Non-Moving Traffic
2 - Other Provincial/Territorial Statutes (not otherwise specified) - Other Activities
2-Traffic Collisions 1 - Wellbeing Check
Killam /Forestburg RCMP are reminding citizens that 310-RCMP (310-2767) remains a fully active, provincewide phone line dedicated to handling non-emergency police matters.
Whether you need to report a suspicious person, property damage, or a minor theft, this number connects you directly to the appropriate RCMP detachmentno area code required.
The 310-RCMP line is an important tool that helps streamline the reporting process, ease pressure on 911 services,
Wednesday, Aug. 20
A complaint was made of a male who was in an alleyway in Killam
Battle River School Division has a full range of schools, choices and opportunities to help ensure your family’s Kindergarten to Grade 12 learning needs are met. With a focus on learning success, quality learning environments, and well-being, as well as a full roster of supports that can be accessed as needed, we strive for Every Student, Every Day, a Success.
Camrose Women's Shelter
Charlie Killam (École)
K-12
Daysland Wes Wilson Jennifer Thomas Forestburg K-12 Forestburg Calvin Anhorn Janna Freadrich Hay Lakes 1-12 Hay Lakes Lloyd MacKenzie Karla Koleba Jack Stuart
PreK-5 Camrose Todd Sieben Erica Easton Killam Public
K-9 Killam Keely Nelson New Norway K-12 New Norway Kelly Arial Steven Searle North Star Outreach 10-12 Tofield Gordon Thompson Round Hill K-9 Round Hill Brian Horbay Ryley K-9 Ryley Maria Schaade
Sifton (École)
PreK-5 Camrose Kathleen McLennan Terry Kennedy Sparling
PreK-5 Camrose Jonathan Skinner Denise Read
Tofield 5-12 Tofield Gordon Thompson Karen Gartner Clayton Roe Viking K-12 Viking Tracy Doerksen
Battle River School Division (BRSD) is pleased to share that the expanded distance eligibility for student transportation will continue for the 2025-26 school year. While there are not many changes to transportation, families are reminded of a few important details:
• Route Design: Bus routes are created using a “first-on, first-off” pattern to help ensure equitable ride times for all students.
• Bus Passes: All students must carry and scan their bus pass when entering and exiting the bus.
• Registration: Students in the City of Camrose must register for transportation each year. Rural students only need to register if their school has changed or if their home address has changed.
We look forward to continuing to provide safe and reliable transportation for all BRSD students.
LABOUR
(Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
2 FIRST DAY FOR STUDENTS 26 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION (TBD) (No School for Students) 30 TRUTH & RECONCILIATION (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed) OCTOBER 13
DAY IN LIEU OF PARENT/TEACHER INTERVIEWS (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
(Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
FALL BREAK (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION(TBD) (No School for Students)
LAST DAY OF CLASSES
CHRISTMAS BREAK BEGINS (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
JANUARY
5 SCHOOL RESUMES
27 LAST DAY OF SEMESTER 1 28 SEMESTER 2 BEGINS
30 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION (TBD) (No School for Students)
FEBRUARY
12&13 TEACHERS' CONVENTION (Schools Closed) 16 FAMILY DAY (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
27 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION(TBD) (No School for Students)
MARCH
27 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION (TBD) (No School for Students)
30 SPRING BREAK BEGINS (Schools Closed)
APRIL
3 GOOD FRIDAY (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
6 EASTER MONDAY (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
7 SCHOOL RESUMES
MAY
1 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION (TBD) (No School for Students)
15 DAY IN LIEU OF PARENT/TEACHER INTERVIEWS (Schools Closed)
18 VICTORIA DAY (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
JUNE
5 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION
Maggy McIntyre (for Diane Dammann)
Last Tuesday, the 16th Annual Movie in the Park brought families and friends together for games and outdoor fun. Long before the film began, kids of all ages could slide down bouncy slides, hop in potato sacks, get their faces painted, try their luck at fishing, and more. I even joined in on a comical three-legged race with my fiancé Jesse.
With perfect weather and a lively gathering, the night concluded with a magical screening of “Moana 2” under the stars. The event was made possible thanks to the dedication of countless volunteers and the generous support of sponsors. Attendees also enjoyed a variety of treats, making it a truly memorable time for the entire community.
A special welcome went out to Elias and Lily Klassen, who travelled from Okotoks to be part of the festivities. It shows just how far the spirit of Alliance reaches!
For Jesse and I, this week was about more than just finding a local event or two - it was about growing friendships. A long-overdue library visit turned into several stories with some friendly faces. We also spent an evening at Frank and Natacha’s cozy place, right in town. Her pulled pork was juicy, he showed us twostep dance moves (something Jesse’s been itching to do) and their dog Bear got so many belly rubs. It’s moments like these that make small-town living feel big-hearted.
Speaking of dancing, excitement is also growing for the upcoming line dance sessions. Classes begin Sept. 23 and will run for six consecutive weeks every Tuesday
night.
Sunday brought a more personal celebration, as the Dammann family marked an extraordinary milestone. Dan and Lorene celebrated 40 years of marriage with snacks, family, and of course, cake. Congratulations to the couple on four decades of love!
Alliance has welcomed a number of visitors over the past while. Anitra Maier and her husband Jeff spent time with mom Barb Ward, following the recent passing of their dad, Wayne. Leo Corsi visited with his cousin Kevin Davidson; Leo is the grandson of Jennifer Boone.
A family reunion was held at Nick and Donna Kozak’s farm in Battle Bend, where the Chavis and Jensen cousins gathered from near and far. Alice Leake of Williams Lake also stopped in for a visit, along with daughters Pam and Allison.
From wobbly spoons to giggles galore, the classic egg-and-spoon race was a crowd favourite at this year’s Movie in the Park, held outside around the Alliance Multiplex on Tuesday, Aug. 19.
An open and welcoming group where community members can connect, share their experiences, and support one another. Together, we explore healthy coping strategies, gain meaningful insights into the grief journey, and find strength through shared understanding and mutual support.
Mondays
pm
Change is on its way this fallwill you be a part of it, or standing on the
It’s very exciting to see that some people have already declared their intentions to run for municipal council during October’s elections.
In past years, we’ve sometimes been in a situation where some or all of a municipal council is elected merely because a person decided to put their name in for nomination.
In 2021, Flagstaff County had six divisions, and four councillors were elected by acclamation. Only two councillors faced an election and won their seat.
The entire councils of Heisler and Forestburg were elected by acclamation in 2021’s election.
In other Flagstaff County municipalities there were actual elections, with more candidates than open seats on council, which was amazing.
The election campaign we just experienced, during the Battle River-Crowfoot by-election was frankly just a little exhausting.
Never mind the 12 or so legitimate candidates, but the attention gained by the Longest Ballot Committee threatened to turn a serious endeavor into a circus. Thank goodness Elections Canada came up with a workaround that completely nullified that tomfoolery.
But here we are, slightly electioned-out, and once more we will be facing what I think are the most important elections.
The federal government is important, crucial to our nation, and the provincial government sets the standards for healthcare and education and more, but it’s really important for our day-to-day life that we consider our municipal governments.
They aren’t all-powerful, but their vision, or lack thereof, can make or break our municipalities.
We all want growth, and to ensure that our communities are strong and resilient, and forward thinking.
And to get that, that means trying to get engaged people sitting in council seats.
That’s only do-able when good people consider putting their names up for nomination. I hope you will consider it.
For the rest of us, showing up to VOTE is nearly as important!
LESLIE CHOLOWSKY
& 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
This fall, our United Conservative government is making changes to how COVID19 vaccines are offered. In the past, the federal government provided vaccines to provinces at no cost. But that is no longer the case. Alberta is now responsible for buying vaccines, which makes it more important that we manage them carefully. Instead of the universal program we’ve seen in previous years, we will be moving to a targeted approach. This means higher-risk Albertans, who need the vaccine most, will be put first. This will help cut down on vaccine waste and help save taxpayers money.
I’ve always supported Albertans’ rights to make their own choice regarding vaccines. What’s most important is that those at greatest risk from COVID-19 have continued access.
Many of you have heard the Premier state that in past years, more than half of the COVID-19 vaccines Alberta ordered went unused and had to be thrown away. That waste added up to about $135 million last year alone! Families in the Camrose Constituency and across rural Alberta know the value of a dollar. Government’s must do the same and United Conservatives are committed to protecting your tax dollars.
Here is how the new immunization program will roll out:
Phase one: free vaccines for seniors in supportive living and home care clients.
Phase two: free vaccines for Albertans with certain health conditions, those with weaker immune systems, and Albertans on programs like AISH and income supports.
Phase three: Albertans 65 and older will still have access to vaccines, but they will be required to cover the cost.
Phase 4: As of August 11, Albertans choosing to get the vaccine can sign up do so in early October by paying the full cost.
To help avoid waste and make planning easier, Alberta’s government has introduced the Vaccine Booking System, a new pre-order tool Albertans can use to let health officials know they want a COVID-19 vaccine this fall.
To pre-order your vaccine using the booking system, visit BookVaccine.Alberta.ca. Once your pre-order has been submitted, you’ll receive a reminder notification by text or email prompting you to book an appointment in early October. The booking system also allows families to schedule their flu shots at the same time.
As always, I am happy to take any concerns and feedback constituents have.
Jackie Lovely, MLA - Camrose Constituency #104, 4870 51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1 Tel: 780-672-0000
Email: camrose@assembly.ab.ca
99, Sedgewick, AB. T0B 4C0
Ethan Neufeld Student Reporter
The Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit (APITC) was introduced in 2023 to encourage investment in the agri-processing industry. Recently, Saputo Dairy Products Canada G.P. has became the first partnership to qualify for the APITC.
Saputo has qualified for conditional approval of the tax credit after investing over $38 million in capital equipment in its Edmonton facility, significantly increasing production capacity.
This expansion also improves workforce health and safety, modernizing machines, and most importantly food safety.
“The Saputo partnership’s conditional approval is a milestone for the APITC, demonstrating that Alberta’s competitive advantage means agri-food producers and processors of all kinds can be successful here,” says RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation.
Saputo Dairy Products Canada G.P. applied for this tax credit in early 2025 when the province allowed partnerships to
Ethan Neufeld Student Reporter
Flagstaff Food Bank at Wild Rose Co-op Killam Food Store is in need of donations.
On Friday, Aug. 22, the Wild Rose Killam Co-op hosted a fundraiser barbeque with the RCMP, asking all to bring food donations to fill a police cruiser with.
The fundraiser was a
success, but donations are still being asked for. All donations are welcomed and appreciated, but the Flagstaff Food Bank is short on the following items: Canned vegetables, Cheese Whiz, jam, coffee, tea, kidney beans, black beans, Sidekicks, Ichiban, oatmeal, Alphagetti, salad dressing, and Hamburger Helper.
apply, making its conditional approval the first partnership to ever receive the tax credit.
Eligible corporations or registered partnerships that invest $10 million or more to build or expand an agri-processing facility are able to apply for a 12 per cent non-refundable tax credit after the project is completed.
The APITC is open to any food manufacturers or bio-processers that add values to commodities such as dairy or meat.
The Saputo partnership has received conditional approval for a tax credit estimated at $4.5 million.
Louise Wagar, vicepresident, operations, Saputo Dairy Products
Canada G.P. says “Through this initiative, our Edmonton facility is on track to operate more efficiently and respond
even better to the needs of consumers today and into the future.
“We’re sincerely grateful to the Ministry of
Agriculture and Irrigation for its valued support in helping us advance this important project.”
Estate of the late Gloria May Wesley of Forestburg, Alberta who died on October 11, 2024.
If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by September 26, 2025
with Scott Farnham Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP
Barristers and Solicitors at 5016 - 52 Street Camrose, Alberta T4V 1V7
If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.
The following property located in MD of Provost No. 52 (approximately 13 miles from Hardisty, 4 miles from Amisk) is offered for sale by tender, subject to the restrictions, reservations and non-financial obligations in the existing Certificates of Title:
PARCEL 1
THE NORTH EAST QUARTER OF SECTION TWENTY FIVE (25)
TOWNSHIP FORTY ONE (41) RANGE NINE (9)
WEST OF THE FOURTH MERIDIAN
CONTAINING 64.7 HECTARES (160 ACRES) MORE OR LESS.
EXCEPTING THEREOUT: .806 HECTARES (1.99 ACRES) MORE OR LESS, AS SHOWN ON ROAD PLAN 7908AG
EXCEPTING THEREOUT ALL MINES AND MINERALS AND THE RIGHT TO WORK THE SAME 130 +/- cultivated acres, 30 +/- pasture acres and yard site containing house, 40x60 Quonset, 20x40 shop, various sheds, pipe corrals and waterers.
PARCEL 2
MERIDIAN 4 RANGE 9 TOWNSHIP 41 SECTION TWENTY FIVE (25)
ALL THAT PORTION OF THE SOUTH EAST QUARTER NOT COVERED BY ANY OF THE WATERS OF LAKE NO. 3 AND LAKE NO. 4, AS SHOWN ON A PLAN OF SURVEY OF THE SAID TOWNSHIP SIGNED AT OTTAWA ON THE 28TH DAY OF APRIL A.D. 1905, CONTAINING 62.8 HECTARES (155.30 ACRES) MORE OR LESS.
EXCEPTING THEREOUT ALL MINES AND MINERALS AND THE RIGHT TO WORK THE SAME 150 +/- cultivated acres, 10 +/- pasture acres. Access only through NE 25-41-9 W4.
No adjustment for 2025 property taxes which have been paid in full by the seller.
Any successful purchaser will pay the cost of any “gap title insurance” necessary to complete this transaction.
Tenders in sealed envelopes marked “Granger Tender” with the tenderer’s GST number and accompanied by a bank draft payable to Andreassen Borth in trust for 5% of the amount of the tender, must be delivered before 12 noon on September 2, 2025 to the office of Andreassen Borth at PO Box 727, 5014 – 50 Street, Killam, AB T0B 2L0, phone 780-385-3670.
Interested parties must bid on both parcels as a package. Tenders will not be opened in public.
Any successful purchaser will allow the seller to complete auction sale on the subject property which starts October 1, 2025 (online). Any successful purchaser will permit the seller and any auction purchasers access to the property to remove purchased items up to October 15, 2025.
SE 25-41-9 W4 has a Cleo Energy surface lease for which no rental was paid in 2025. Surface lease will be assigned to any successful purchaser.
The balance of the purchase price shall be paid to Andreassen Borth on or before September 26, 2025. Tenders are irrevocable and shall remain open until dealt with by the offices of Andreassen Borth. If a successful tenderer does not complete the purchase after acceptance of that tender, their deposit shall be forfeited. The highest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. The owners reserve the right to reject any and all tenders.
Deposits received from unsuccessful tenderers will be returned to them as soon as possible.
For further information call Clayton at 780-888-1441.
On June 25, the Wetaskiwin RCMP Crime Reduction Unit initiated an investigation into an individual suspected of trafficking fentanyl in the Wetaskiwin Area.
The investigation involved multiple RCMP investigative units and resulted in Wetaskiwin RCMP executing a search warrant on Aug. 14 at a property in Edmonton.
Tara Mulley (40), a resident of Edmonton is charged with the following: two counts of Trafficking fentanyl, three counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking, one count of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000.
Mulley has a previous conviction for trafficking drugs.
Mulley was taken before a Justice of the Peace and released for a future court.
With the assistance of the EPS Tactical Unit the search of the premises resulted in the seizure of 68 grams of suspected fentanyl, three grams of suspected methamphetamine, 1.5 grams of suspected cocaine, nine grams of suspected psilocybin, scales, baggies, and Canadian Currency.
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
The Killam RCMP Detachment would like to remind parents to protect their children’s privacy online during this upcoming back-to-school season.
“As students head back to the classroom, the RCMP is encouraging parents and guardians to be cautious about what they share online, especially when posting those much-anticipated first-day-ofschool photos.”
In recent years, police say photos that include signs with fun facts about the stu-
dent, including their full names, ages, grade, and schools might be well intentioned, but the personal details they contain can put children at risk.
“Information shared online can be used by strangers to identify a child, learn their routines, or build a false sense of familiarity. Someone could use these details to approach a youth and pretend to be a family friend or trusted adult, when this is not the case.”
To help keep kids safe, the Killam/Forestburg RCMP encourages parents and guardians to consider these online safety tips:
SATURDAY, SEPT. 6, 2025 AT 10:00 A.M.
LOCATION: 27218 Township Rd 522, Spruce Grove, Alberta
DIRECTIONS: Being from Zender Ford in Spruce Grove, go 4 miles south to Township Rd 522, then 1/2 mile east.
Tractor: JD 500 Tractor c/w F.E.L. c/w pallet forks; MF 50 Propane Tractor c/w F.E.L.; JD 4010 Tractor, needs work; JD 2010, Parts
Equipment: JD 500 Tractor c/w
F.E.L. c/w pallet forks; MF 50 Propane Tractor c/w F.E.L.; JD 4010 Tractor, needs work; JD 2010, Parts
Trailers: JD 500 Tractor c/w F.E.L. c/w pallet forks; MF 50 Propane Tractor c/w F.E.L.; JD 4010 Tractor, needs work; JD 2010, Parts Quad: Polaris 600 Twin Sportman Quad, on demand A.W.D. c/w racks & winches
Miscellaneous: Hyundai HY 3400
R.V. Power Generator; Miller Thunderbolt 225 EL Welder; Metal Bandsaw; 478 Cummins Eng.
Organizers c/w Bolts & Screws; Assort. Tractor Parts; Assort. New Tires; Assort. Tractor Starters; Drill Press; Radial Arm Saw; Hyd. Parts; Smith Roles Tire Changer; New J.D. Rim for F.W.A.; Assort. Big Hyd. Winches; Assort Drill Bits; (3) 30-ft Pipe Pallet Racks; Pipe Stand; Assort. F.E. Loader Brackets; Assort. Hyd. Controlls & Hyd Blocks; Large Assort. Tools; Assort. Fittings; Butterfield Tap & Die Set; Bolt Bins c/w bolts; Sockets; Air Impacts; Pipe Wrenches; Crescents; Racking; Parts Bins; Work Benches; AC Tools; Computer; Filing Cabinets; Assort. Tractor Manuals; Assort. Part Manuals; Large Assort. Tractor Service Manuals; Many more items
•Leave out identifying details. Avoid including the name of your child’s school, home address, or other specific personal information in photos.
•Be mindful of locations. Take pictures in places that do not reveal your home, neighbourhood, or other easily identifiable spots.
•Limit what you share. If you want to include a sign, keep it generic with wording like “First Day of School” rather than listing detailed personal facts.
•Review privacy settings. Ensure your social media accounts are set to the highest privacy level before posting.
•Have ongoing safety talks. Speak with your children about online safety and “stranger danger,” both in-person and online. Establish a family “safe word” and identify trusted adults they can turn to.
Tips for children:
•Never share personal information online, such as your last name, address, school name, or other identifying details.
•Always have a parent or guardian review photos or videos before you post them.
•If something online makes you uncomfortable or feels unsafe, tell a parent.
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
On Tuesday, Aug. 19, the Forestburg Train Station was the centre of all the action, as the 100+ Women Who Care Flagstaff County came together for their last meeting of their sixth year of operations.
The group says, “It was not merely a gathering, it was a living testament to the strength, dedication, and unity of a community bound together by compassion and an unwavering commitment to uplifting Flagstaff County.”
Tuesday’s meeting represented not just another donated of $11,800 to the Flagstaff Community, but it also brought the six-year total funds donated to $279,600. Those funds were distributed to 44 organizations located throughout the region.
Now sitting at 193 members, the group heard from four different organizations: Building Blocks, Flagstaff Players, Hardisty Street Fair Committee, and Hardisty United Church Camp. While members were deciding how to cast their votes, they received up-
dates on other projects, including the Killam Legion’s wheelchair accessibility project. Members were invited to an Open House event to be held in the future.
The Gibson’s Youth Centre/Youth Program shared news about operations, including expanded summer family event programming.
Once the voting was complete, two groups were the evening’s winners, with Hardisty United Church Camp and Flagstaff Building Blocks each receiving $5,900.
The group’s Steering Committee, consisting of Joanne McMahon, Tanya Piche, and Holly Bovencamp, say, “As Flagstaff 100 Women Who Care moves into its seventh year, the group is poised to surpass the $300,000 milestone - a remarkable achievement for a grassroots organization powered by local women.
“With 193 members already, the goal is to reach 200, and the invitation is open to all who wish to create meaningful impact. Membership is about more than just philanthropy; it is about building connection, purpose, and a sense of belonging.”
They said as the sixth year came to a close last week there was a “palpable sense of accomplishment, gratitude, and anticipation for the future.”
The 100+ Women Who Care Flagstaff County group is open to new members,
either as individuals or groups. “We welcome all new members to an organization that is strengthening our community of communities in Flagstaff County as we create a priceless feeling of connection, purpose and shared strength.”
The Alberta RCMP, in partnership with energy sector stakeholders, municipalities, and private security providers, is reporting significant progress in reducing copper wire theft across the Hardisty region through the Hardisty Community Action Plan.
Launched in August 2024, the plan has focused on deterring thefts at energy lease sites and critical infrastructure that were repeatedly targeted due to the high resale value of copper and precious metals.
The first phase of the initiative, completed in March 2025, resulted in:
-17 arrests related to copper wire theft.
-Marked decreases in thefts across key locations involved in the action plan.
In April 2025, no thefts were reported at targeted locations in these areas:
-Consort, who had 10 reported thefts in Aug. 2024;
-Coronation, who had two reported thefts in Dec. 2024;
-Killam, who had eight reported thefts in Aug. 2024; and
-Provost, who had six reported thefts in Oct. 2024.
These results were made possible through enhanced patrols, curfew checks, and covert surveillance operations, supported by RCMP resources from Eastern and Central Alberta District Crime Reduction Units, INSET, Hardisty area detachments (municipal and provincial), RCMP divisional crime analysts, the Community Safety and Well-Being Branch as well as community and industry partners including Hardisty Terminal, Enbridge, South Bow, ATCO, Hardisty and District Development Group, Inter Pipeline, Cenovus, Gibson Energy, Husky Midstream, CNRL, Sedgewick, and all Town and County Elected Officials.
The RCMP is now in Phase 2 of the Hardisty Initiative and is confident that by enhancing and developing their tech-
niques that the community will see increased arrests and decreases in thefts in the area.
“Eastern Alberta RCMP have worked extensively with our communities and industry partners to successfully address the prevalence of metal theft and damage to industrial and private property over the last 12 months” said Supt. Anthony Hanson, Assistant District Officer for Eastern Alberta.
“As Alberta’s Provincial Police Service, the RCMP has utilized its investigative and material resources through Crime Reduction Units, General Investigative Sections, remote and fixed wing Aircraft technology, Crime data analytics and local detachment resources to support this project through the targeting of know prolific offenders.
“Our community and industry partners have been engaged in ongoing public and direct consultations to articulate their
pressures, concerns and proposed solutions, which we have centered this project around. Industry has invested in modern security features for their infrastructure while communities have initiated direct contact with Eastern Alberta RCMP leadership and their local Detachment Commanders to provide intelligence and support. This initiative will continue through 2025/26 with my full expectation of continued success.”
The RCMP encourages the public and industry partners to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity around industrial sites. Copper wire theft is not just a property crime, it affects public safety, service continuity, and community wellbeing.
If you have any information about crimes in your community, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com.
Ethan Neufeld Student Reporter
Safe Roads Alliance reminds all drivers to carefully observe all school zone speeds and always follow school zone speed limits, especially during the school year when classes are active.
Make sure to slow down, keeping a vigilant eye out for children and staff during the day and monitor your speed.
Children are also very unpredictable, so keep an eye out for kids near the street and always pay close attention to people crossing.
With bus safety being extremely important, it is just as important to ensure you know the rules.
For students, always make sure that you and all other kids walk at least three metres (10 feet) away from the bus when crossing in front of it to ensure the driver can see you.
Never run to or from the bus, always try to be
on time or early so you can wait at the designated stop.
Always make sure you and your kids remember the danger zone, which is any area on the exterior of the bus close enough to touch, as the driver cannot see you.
Always wait to cross the street until the arm is out and the lights are flashing, the driver will then signal you across.
RCMP advises morning drivers to plan ahead and give themselves extra time to prevent speeding and keep safety-focused. Always know the rules of the road.
Around school or playground zones, reduce your speed to posted limits, pay attention to crossing guard directions. Avoid blocking crosswalks with your vehicle, especially near schools.
Children may also get distracted when school is starting or letting out, as well as not knowing the
rules of the road, so RCMP urge drivers to be sure to keep an eye out for all pedestrians, especially children.
The RCMP has also created a list of safety tips for drivers and pedestrians for crosswalks. Crosswalk safety tips for drivers include:
-Slow down near crosswalks and intersections;
-Be prepared to stop when approaching a marked crosswalk, even if the pedestrian hasn’t stepped onto the road yet;
-Obey crossing guards and yield to pedestrians at all marked and unmarked crosswalks;
-Avoid passing other vehicles stopped at a crosswalk - they may be yielding to someone you can’t see.
RCMP also have some crosswalk safety tips for pedestrians, such as always looking both ways before crossing, using designated crosswalks, obeying crossing guards,
making eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before stepping onto the road, and putting away phones and removing headphones while crossing.
It is also important as a driver to know the signals of a school bus, and to pay attention to all of them.
If a school bus is stopped with red flashing lights and an extended stop arm, all drivers in both directions must stop, unless the roadway is physically divided by a median.
Do not proceed until the red lights have stopped flashing and the stop arm has been retracted.
Flashing yellow lights mean the bus is preparing to stop - drivers must slow down and prepare to stop. Failing to stop for a school bus can result in a fine of up to $567 and
six demerit points. RCMP encourages all drivers and pedestrians to be extra vigilant with the new school year coming to a start, and to respect and follow the rules of the road.
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are now accepting Listings for this Sale. Any items prelisted by September 10th will be included in our Sales Posters, Newspaper & Radio Advertising,
Who would have imagined, those many years ago when you sent your little one off to kindergarten, that this day would come? They are grown and off to college with a gleam in their eye; ready to take on the world. While you are making lists, packing the car, and figuring out budgets and accommodation, don’t forget to consider insurance coverage for their belongings and liability. Most homeowners insurance coverage includes some coverage for your post secondary student while they are full time at university or college, but depending on their circumstances that may not be the best option. Limits of coverage and other considerations may mean you need to look further. Good news, though – a tenants insurance policy for them is priced very reasonably and easy to put in place.
Ethan Neufeld Staff Reporter
A new sunflower field and corn maze has opened up near Hardisty in order to raise money for the Childrens Stollery. Bobbi Jo and David Hays have decided to host this through their farm, Hays Land & Cattle in thanks to everything the Stollery has done for their family over the past 26 years. They are officially calling the event “Sunflower Selfies and Corn Maze.”
fundraising page on their website where people make donations directly.
So far the family has raised over $1,800; anyone who wants to donate can simply scan the QR code to go to https://stolleryci.crowdchange.ca/112696 or make a cheque payable to: Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation.
The Hays family says, “Each and every visit, we received excellent care from amazing doctors and nurses.”
The Hays have put a board out at the start of both fields where they host stories about not only their experience with the Stollery, but also stories from other families who’ve shared their experiences with at the Stollery, and why it means so much to support them.
This year, their donation goal is ti raise $5,000 with all proceeds going to the Stollery Hospital Foundation.
The Hays say that the Stollery has worked with them all through the planning stages to now, setting up a special
Another aspect of their fundraising efforts has come from daughter Kenzie, who runs Crocus Hill Photography. She is booking family portrait sessions out at the sunflowers, and donating 75 per cent of the cost back to the Stollery Foundation.
The Hays family say, “This week is the perfect week” to head down to see the sunflowers, as they will likely be out of bloom by September.
The corn maze path, through corn plants that are around 7’ tall, is over one kilometre all the way through 11 acres of corn. Then there are three acres of sunflowers, also with the path through them, about half a kilometre long, including picnic tables and scenic vantage points for photos.
David plans to combine both the sunflowers and corn for feed once they are
out of season, he says.
The farm is located about nine kilometres south down off Highway 13 on the Hardisty Airport road (RR 103) on the left. The Hays planted their crops around mid May, and the sunflowers just started blooming at the end of July.
Anyone is welcome to attend, but the event is not guided or manned.
Once there, there are boards explaining how to contribute to the Stollery Foundation, including the original QR code.
They also have a social media page for the ‘Sunflower Selfies and Corn Maze’ event.
If you plan on attending, they do not accept in-person donations. Although the corn will last until October, the sunflowers will be gone soon, going out of season come September.
The family is confident they will host a similar event in the future, and hopefully many years to come and possibly even donating to a different life-saving organization, such as STARS.
Sandra Erickson Ph: 780-384-2030 Sedgewick
email: sedgewicknews@gmail.com
Four Sedgewick residents recently embarked on a Mission Trip to Winnipeg. The Winnipeg church put out a call to other Nazarene Churches needing help with reorganizing/cleaning out, drywall, and painting.
Megan and Matthew Edey as well as Lee and Gina De Gala from Sedgewick answered that call together with other volunteers from other communities and made the long trip to Winnipeg. They spent two days helping and had a little time to explore before heading back to Sedgewick. Well done!
The Sedgewick Business Association hosted a contest for the Best Yard in Sedgewick a few weeks ago. Nominations got sent in, then pictures taken of those yards nominated and then people had a chance to vote via likes on Facebook. The clear winner was Helen Tanton! Well deserved! She won a $25 Co-op gift card and a fancy new garden sign to brag about her big win. Congratulations!
The Highland Festival seems to get bigger and better with each year! I hope you had a chance to take in all the action Sedgewick had to offer. Read more elsewhere in the paper.
And my apologies, the Sedgewick Library’s Community Breakfast was hosted on Sunday, not Saturday as previously mentioned. The members of the Sedgewick Fire Department and board members of the Sedgewick & District Municipal Library worked together and appreciated everyone that came out!
I recently finished my Build-A-Skill program.
In the Spring the Flagstaff Child and
Youth Coalition - along with Flagstaff Family & Community Services and Flagstaff County asked people about a skill they are wanting to share with students. I had offered to share German language skills and one student was interested! We met all summer long and I’m happy to say he has some basic German skills.
It’s been interesting to see what other skills have been offered. From bee keeping and automotive mechanic to meat cutting, aviation, and many more. They are planning on running it again, so if you have a skill to share, please consider signing up next time! It’s a great way to expose youth to a field they might be interested in!
While our team has been part of the 100 Women Who Care Flagstaff County for a few years now, I’ve never attended a meeting. Last week I was honoured to present for the program called Building Blocks by Flagstaff Community Adult Learning. It was exhilarating!
Even more so after taking the win together with Hardisty Lake United Church Camp, which I am also a board member for. Needless to say it was a fantastic evening. And I know it’s always a worthy organization, but being in that room, feeling the energy? I highly encourage you to go in person!
It’s magical!
Thank you to everyone who is part of this lifechanging organization!
While I presented to ‘100 women’, my kids had the best time at the annual movie in the park event. It’s always a family highlight. Jessica from the Family Resource Center in Killam and her team knocked it out of the park, once again! Thank you for keeping this family tradition going! Moana 2 was this year’s movie and it was showcased in the quaint community of Alliance.
Imagination Library Flagstaff County is hosting a community barbeque next week at the Wild Rose Co-op in Kil-
lam. We are raising funds to keep the books flowing to children 0-5 in Flagstaff County. I’d be delighted if you made it
out to lunch during the barbeque and support our littlest learners! We are so thankful to the Wild Rose Co-op for
being such an amazing community partner allowing organizations to raise much-needed funds this way!
Contractorswithexcess woodchipscannowdrop themoffatoursatellite sitesinGalahadandStrome. Thesewoodchipswillthen bemadeavailableforlocal
Contractors with excess wood chips can now drop them off at our satellite sites in Galahad and Strome These wood chips will then be made available for local citizens to use in their yards and gardens
Formoreinformation,pleasevisit: https://bit.ly/FlagstaffWoodChips
Hobie the yearling steer Highland Cow was auctioned off at the seventh annual Gathering of the Clans Highland Festival. Pictured above are Keegan and MacKenzie Miller of Anchor K Highland Coos, who re-donated Hobie back for another round of bidding. Pictured next are Roger and Judy Ferrier, who generously donated the cow for the auction. Mary Ellen and Elias White had the final winning bid, with Ian Malcolm of the Flagstaff Scottish Club, and lastly Hobie in his pen. Pictured left, Hobie is visited by a young gentleman who offers up some grass for the cow to eat.
Ethan Neufeld Student Reporter
The Alberta Teachers Association (ATA) held its vote for the teachers strike on June 5 to June 8, with almost 39,000 teachers voting. The vote ended in a shocking blowout with 95 per cent of votes supporting the strike.
Alberta’s teachers have until early October to initiate the strike, giving 72 hours notice once it has been started.
Teachers say they have decided to strike mainly because of the low per-student funding and large
class sizes.
Alberta’s per-student funding is the lowest out of any province in Canada, with little to none of the money they spend on classroom resources being reimbursed, the union says.
Teachers say they are also fighting for more fair wages that keep up with inflation and the money needed to keep their classroom a proper learning space.
A formal mediation is continuing on Aug. 26 to Aug. 29, with bargaining time running out as the new school year approaches.
The Mountain Bluebird are seen in Alberta during the summer breeding season, returning to the southwestern US in the winter months. They prefer open areas with a mix of short grasses, shrubs, and trees, They will also seek nest boxes that face away from roads. As shown above, they eat mostly insects, especially during breeding season; beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. Nestlings are fed the same fare. They are slightly larger than a finch, but a lot smaller than a Robin.
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Flagstaff Scottish Club and Battle River Pipes and Drums would like to thank everyone who bought tickets, supported and made our 2025 Gathering of the Clans Highland Festival the best one yet. Thank you to the over 80 amazing community members who volunteered and kept things running smoothly even when we club members had to disappear to parade or handle other details. Thanks to each of our club and band members who put in hours of time in organizing, planning and setting up. Thank you to our Heavy Events participants who challenge themselves and put on a great show for the audience. Thank you to Cory Gagnon for his irreplaceable help in set up at Wild Rose Co-op Recreation Centre. Thank you to Perry Robinson, Dave Muirhead, Gary Klein and Sedgewick Mayor, Stephen Levy for making up the colour party and the RCMP for leading the opening parade. Thank you to Damien Kurek for bringing greetings on behalf of MP Pierre Poilievre and MLA Jackie Lovely for her support. Thanks you to the Sedgewick Fire Department and Sedgewick Public Library for hosting the Sunday pancake breakfast and sending all our overnight guests home with full bellies.
Tourism Assistance Grant
Jarret and Evelyn Ferrier sponsoring Chicken John’s Petting Zoo
Killam Home
Hardware Building Centre
Battle River Community Foundation
Heavy Events Sponsor
Special thanks to those who were involved in our Hobie the Highland Steer Auction who together helped us raise $4,150 to support BRPD
• Roger and Judy Ferrier - donated Hobie
• Anchor K Ranch - purchased and donated Hobie back for resale
• Elias White and Family of Ben and Simon’s Pie Shop - purchased Hobie
• Dean Arntzen - auctioneer
Thanks to our Event and General Sponsors
• William and Mary Lougheed
• Ball Family Dental
• Karen Robinson & Budding Ideas Flowers and Gifts - Mattierin Irish Dance Sponsors
• Sedgewick IDA Pharmacy - Scottish Beasties Sponsor
• Bullhead Environmental Ltd. - Mike Palmer & T2 Fire and Safety - Todd Baumgartner - Kidszone
Treasure Pit Sponsors
• McGowan Welding
• Wild Rose Co-op
• Amped Energy
• O.J.'s Leisure Products Wainwright
• Sandhill Supply Ltd.
• Jackie Kim, Sedgewick Canco Gas and Convenience Store - Sarah Waters Sponsor
• Holbie's Glass Ltd. & Prairie Boy Spice Co.
- Irish Wolfhounds Sponsors
• Doreen Eldey
• Wes Cresswell & Theresa Schmutz - Boot Scootin’ Dance Club Sponsors
Thank You to our In-Kind Sponsors
• Area 53 Race Way
• Battle River Implements
• 1979 Sports Bar and Grill
• Anchor K Ranch
• Sedgewick Ag Society
• Willerton Skidoo & Golf Carts
• Town of Sedgewick
• The Highland Shoppe
• Fred Watkins
• Sedgewick Building Supplies
• James Insurance Group
• Battle River School Division for use of CHSPS Grounds
Thanks to all who supported our raffle box 50/50 draw and Congratulations to our grand prize winner of $4,095,
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
The Killam Baptist Church just wound up this summer’s Vacation Bible School called ‘Wonder Junction,’ an old-west themed program. It’s a vacation bible school program that uses the old west setting to teach about Jesus.
This year’s session had nearly 80 kids enrolled, and ran from Monday, Aug. 11, to Friday, Aug. 15.
The church was marvellously decorated in the old west style, with a great stage backdrop and many decorations that perpetuated the old-
west theme perfectly.
The children who attended received door prizes, take-home gifts, and a special few, who memorized their bible passages, received some special recognition and prizes.
In addition to the week’s activities, participants and families also raised money and collected food donations in support of the Flagstaff Food Bank.
After the finale on Friday morning to end the session, which included singing and dancing, there was a chili and hot-dog lunch for all participants, their families, and visitors.
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers
16,000 readers
NOTICES. EVENTS. ANNOUNCEMENTS. THANKS. MEMORIALS. SALES. RENTALS. REAL ESTATE. GIVE AWAYS. & MORE! PRICING
SUMMER SALE!
$500 Off a pair of hearing devices! Free remote control! Can be combined with government funding from AADL of $900 Benchmark Hearing Centre Main Street Daysland Phone 780-374-3748 Or book online! benchmarkhearingcentre.ca
Carrots, Potatoes, Beets, Beans Are Ready!!!
East of Sedgewick, off Highway 13, turn north on RR122, then go north 3 miles. Helen Tanton - 780-888-6800
28tfnc
Storage Unit For Rent in Killam
Inside private warehouse building behind Community Press office. Security cameras on site, building heated in winter. Upstairs units available, approx 8’ x 12’. Back alley access only.
$99/mo. with $100 damage deposit. Or pre-pay for 6 months for $495 (1 month free) or pre-pay for 1 year for $990 (2 months free).
Rental contract required. First month due at signing. Call/Leave Voicemail for Ally 780-385-6693 or stop by The Community Press office on Main Street in Killam.
Set of 4 Michelin Defender LTX M/S Tires - 265/65R18. Like new. $800. Phone 780-662-3347. TM33P ————————————————
ARDENT Wood Stove to dismantle; Made in Canada. $3,000, will consider offers. Three-car carport, new, 30' by 36' to be moved from Andrew; please call for viewing/photos 780-888-7011 or 780-888-2600 32/33p ————————————————
Equipment For Sale
• Zero Turn Cub Cadet Lawnmower 54" with approximately 250 hours 2 years old
• Kubota Side by Side with Dump Box
• Massey Ferguson model 255 with approximately 3,000 hours with ease-on front end loader.
• Restored W30 International. New paint, runs good.
Call Norman at 780-385-8814. 33/37p
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BLS Fresh Garden Products
The following will be available soon: peas, beans, cucumbers, cabbages, dill. For other products please text 780-860-2672. In the Bruce area. TM32-35p
Large Round Tame Hay Bales for Sale. Phone: 780-679-7094
34/35p
4 month old Hens. Mixed breed Australorp, Plymouth Rock Columbian Rock Hens. Started to lay eggs. $18.00 a bird. More information phone or text 780-632-9881. LL32p
Lamont Vision Centre is hiring!
- Optician (licensed or student)
- Receptionist
Flexible hours for both positions.
Please email resume to bailee.cvc@gmail.com to apply. 34/37P
½ Section Pastureland
NE 35 & NW 36-41-10-W4 located south of Hardisty in the Battle River valley at RR 101 & TWP RD 420. Fenced, cross-fenced, mix of seeded and tame grass with large dug-out, pumping system, full power on site with gravel revenue. Call Mike Golka REMAX River City 780-914-9889 MLS#’s E4447511 & E4447499
Looking for New Farm & Commercial Listings! Give us a call, we’d love to sell your property! Hill Realty Inc. 780-449-5622
nhill01@telus.net www.hillrealty.ca
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Town & Country Guardian Drugs - Killam
We have: •a colour photocopier. •cold pop and fresh snacks. •a great selection of giftware, houseware, fragrances, clothing, toys, games, plush animals and more. •a big selection of greeting cards. •stationery. •seasonal gifts •vitamins, minerals, supplements •free gift wrapping •prescription service 6 days a week.
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General Contractor
Red Seal Journeyman Plumber and Gasfitter. Bathroom Renos & Tile New to the Area. 30 plus Years of Experience. Dave 403-999-8464
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———————————————— Mike & Dave RV Inc. Service, Storage, Parts. Call us today! 780-415-5015 or visit our website: www.mdrv.ca **Located just 11 kms North of Tofield on Highway 834**.
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Medical Taxi Service
Personal Taxi Service to Edmonton and Back -$175
•Office Hours Mon-Fri 9-5
•Absolutely NO Hidden Fees
•Escort to Reception/Waiting Room
•Pick up and Drop off at your door
•Top Notch Service! •Includes up to 4 Hour Wait•Locally Owned and Operated. 587-987-7810
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Drywall Taping/Ceiling Texturing
Experienced Killam drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job, big or small. Don't want to do it yourself? Give me a call!
Flagstaff Taping & Texturing Murray Cholowsky Call or text at 780-385-1251
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers
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SERVICES
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749 ————————————————
Hakim Oberg Law
ALA HAKIM OBERG
Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public
Based in Forestburg, AB 5004 - 49 Ave. (Professional Centre, 2nd Floor) Please call for appointment. 780-238-6938 ala@hakimoberglaw.com www.hakimoberglaw.com ———————————————
Hawkeye Custom Corral Cleaning Hawkeye Ag Inc is your complete solution for corral cleaning. We also provide services in the agriculture space: land clearing, pen rebuilding, aggregate for small and large farm operations. Based out of Lamont. 780-718-7479
CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca
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Be prepared for winter power outages.
GENERAC Generators It’s not just a Generator, it’s a Power Move. Receive a free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase - valued at $535 Call 587-803-3600 to schedule your free quote!
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Did You Know? Facebook continues to experience a sharp decline in popularity, engagement, and user growth, especially among younger demographics, due to various factors including: heavy competition from other platforms, privacy concerns, misinformation, hostility, suppression of legitimate news sources, and rising marketplace scams.
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
The Sedgewick Business Association started a new promotion this year, inviting all Sedgewick residents to work towards winning the distinction of Sedgewick’s ‘Yard of the Year’ for 2025.
The Association held an online poll and received nine yard nominations, Association co-founder Katie Freadrich says.
Residents were allowed to nominate themselves or
others.
Then on July 23, the Association photographed each of the nine yards, posted the photos online, and once again asked residents to vote for their favourites.
Winning the most votes and the distinction of the very first Sedgewick Yard of the Year award was Helen Tanton.
She received 87 out of a total of 365 votes.
Tanton won not just the title of Yard of the Year, but also a $25 Wild Rose Co-op gift card.
The Sedgewick Business Association recently held a contest for Sedgewick’s 2025 Yard of the Year. The big winner, with nearly a quarter of all the votes, was Helen Tanton, shown here receiving her new yard sign from the Association’s Katie Freadrich (left).
Andy has been an RCMP Member for 17 years. He’s served in the communities of Hinton, Edmonton, Ft. Saskatchewan, Canmore, and Killam.
Since arriving in Killam last year, he’s made concentrated efforts to attend our various communities when available to do so hoping to improve communication with our numerous municipal governments in the region. His main priorities for Killam is reestablishing relationships with the entire community by opening lines of communication and improving detachment morale. He’s also focussed on reducing crime utilizing multiple strategies as he charters forward with detachment improvement in this area to help our communities.
Andy is married, and he and his wife like to travel, golf, camp, and hike.
Corporal Andrea Bole started her policing career at the Killam Detachment in 2006, fresh from Depot. She worked in Killam through 2016, when she was transferred to Viking, and then received a promotion from constable to corporal and returned to Killam in 2024 as the detachment’s first female corporal.
She also holds a Masters Degree in Counselling and Psychology and has a passion for the study and treatment of PTSD and trauma.
During her time at the Killam Detachment, she started a family and says she truly fell in love with the community. “Having 18 years in community front-line policing, I’ve been at the scenes for 18 years.” She says she stays grounded through having her family, social support network, “and by having a very supportive community around me.”
On behalf of the RCMP, I want to take a moment to recognize the hard work our members have put forth serving the wonderful citizens of Flagstaff County and the MD of Provost (Amisk). The members work tirelessly to keep these communities safe and often make major personal sacrifices to answer the call of duty here at Killam / Forestburg Detachment.
It has been a challenging year in many regards and the members have demonstrated an admirable level of resiliency and dedication towards serving residents of our two counties. They are the ones that truly deserve this salute to service.
To the citizens of Flagstaff County and the MD of Provost, I wish to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for your continued support and understanding of our current law enforcement environment. Your local RCMP share our successes and tragic losses together with you. We’ve made a conscious effort to increase our community involvement and visibility by way of an increased school presence, participation in various community events, and an increase in patrols throughout the region. I look forward to our continued improvement in this area over the next year to supplement our ultimate goal of reducing crime in the region. Thank you to each and every one of you within our municipalities and counties for your continued support. We appreciate it very much!
Sgt. Andy Wetzstein
This Special Feature was made possible with the sponsorship of these local businesses.
Michelle
Killam Detachment’s team in 2022. She’s enjoying all the ins and outs of the job, and working with the Killam Detachment members. Michelle has lived in Sedgewick for the past decade, and hails from Mulgrave, Nova Scotia originally. She says she enjoys working with the public, and helping people.
Providence Place
Our thanks to our hardworking Police and Peace Officers!
6120 51 Avenue
Daysland
Ph: 780-374-2527
When she’s not at work, she enjoys gardening, reading, and spending time with family.
We appreciate your dedication and hard work! Thank you!
Assistant
No detachment runs without the valuable assistance of its Detachment Clerk and the Killam office is no exception. Deb Albers has been with the detachment over a decade now.
“There’s something new every day at the Detachment,” she says, ”I really enjoy what I do.” She has lived in the Flagstaff area for nearly 20 years, near Daysland. Now that she’s an ‘empty nester’ she says, “I fill my time with camping, hunting, fishing, crocheting and audio books”
Cst. Calvin LeBlanc came to the Killam Detachment at the end of July 2020. Calvin hails from Fredericton, New Brunswick, he grew up and attended college there, achieving his Criminology degree at St. Thomas College.
Calvin is a skilled basketball player, he played through high school and college, and even played on team New Brunswick. He also enjoys reading, and says he enjoys watching all kinds of sports.
LeBlanc says he was immediately struck by the friendliness of his other Detachment members, and has received offers to help him in whatever he needs. It’s his first time living in a smaller rural area, but he is really enjoying living and working in the region.
Cst. Brett McFarlane arrived at the Killam Detachment March 2022, saying he couldn’t be more delighted to be starting his RCMP career in rural Alberta.
Brett spent eight years in the Canadian Armed Forces. He grew up near Langley, BC, and joined the army at age 23. He’s travelled the world through his service in the army.
Brett is married with three children. He says, “I’m grateful to be in the community, with friendly people, and doing this type of policing. I feel really fortunate to be here.”
Ph:888-385-3654
www.tjig.ca
Hardisty, Lougheed, Sedgewick & Killam
Thanks
Cst. Logan Ryder arrived at the Killam Detachment December 2023 after graduating from Depot. He was born and raised in Toronto.
Logan has a degree in Criminal Justice and worked his way through university at various customer service positions. He applied to the RCMP after realizing that he genuinely likes helping people. A few friends work working with the Ontario Provincial Police, but he was more drawn to the RCMP.
After graduating, Logan chose Alberta as his first-choice for a posting. Coming to Killam was his first time in a rural community, and he’s finding it very friendly, and says he loves the diversity of rural policing.
Cst. Reece MacLeish arrived at the Killam Detachment in October 2024 fresh from Depot. He says joining the RCMP was a lifelong desire, “Something I wanted to do from a very young age.” He studied Business for a couple of years before being accepted by the RCMP. He says working in Rural Alberta was his first choice for a posting, and Killam ticked all the boxes for him. He’s from Ottawa, so it’s been a bit of a culture shock, but he’s enjoying the slower pace, enjoying learning the ropes at the Detachment. Reece says Flagstaff residents lived up to their friendly reputation as he started working and meeting more people in the area.
Cst. Callum MacQueen arrived at the Killam Detachment from Depot in May of 2025. Raised in Calgary, he says his father, grandfather, and one of his uncles were RCMP members, and it wasn’t a hard decision to follow in their footsteps.
He says being posted to Killam is exactly what he wanted, even though at the time he wasn’t familiar with the region. “I wanted a rural posting. It’s the perfect fit, both size wise and for the number of personnel here.”
Callum was surprised with the amenities available in the region, and says, “There’s a really good vibe in the community, and lots of amenities, and I’ve found everyone to be very friendly.”
The Killam Detachment will welcome a new constable this fall, Cst. Lloyd Gardner, who we hope to introduce to the community as is our custom.
Thanks from Council and Administration on behalf of our residents to all our hardworking RCMP and our Peace Officer
Flagstaff County Peace Officers have been serving the residents and communities of Flagstaff County for more than six decades.
Flagstaff County employs one Peace Officer whose primary objective is to protect County infrastructure by upholding road bans, to conduct regular patrols to enforce provincial statutes and municipal bylaws, and to perform inspections to ensure the safety of both commercial and farm vehicles.
County roads are a major investment by our taxpayers, so it is important that our Peace Officers enforce weights and measures to ensure that all drivers in Flagstaff County are operating within legal allowances, therefore protecting the infrastructure from damage and increasing the safety of all motorists.
Commercial Vehicle Enforcement ensures large trucks are safer and compliant with Commercial Vehicle Safety Regulations. Protection of roads through maximum vehicle weights allowed is also supported through inspections.
In addition to patrolling County roads, Peace Officers offer patrol services to urban municipalities through a Peace Officer Agreement, which permits them to enforce the Traffic Safety Act within that municipality’s jurisdiction. Peace Officers maintain strong relationships and work closely with other agencies such as the RCMP, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement, Fish & Wildlife, and fire departments throughout the region.
Skyler was born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, but grew up in Red Deer. He’s been in Flagstaff for 15 years, and a Peace Officer here since 2010.
Skyler and his wife and three daughters make their home in Daysland, where he has also served as the Deputy Chief of the Daysland Fire Department. In 2025, he was awarded the Alberta Association of Community Peace Officers’ Award of Excellence for not only his long service, but for the initiatives he has brought forward, including the Farm Truck Inspections, made possible through his special training, and his positive ticket program, where youth across the Flagstaff County region have been rewarded with prizes for being good citizens. The Award is meant to recognize Zelinski’s “unwavering committment, professionalism, and service to our community,” says Flagstaff
He really enjoys playing golf, watching Blue Jays games, spending time with his family, and is an avid reader.