December 7 Lamont Leader

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Photo: Merwin Haight

Daytime fires most difficult time to round-up firefighters due to work

- 3 fire crews work to “put wet stuff on the red stuff” - Fire Chief Dales

BY JANA SEMENIUK

One man is left homeless after a devastating fire in the village of Andrew Dec 1.

A call just after 8 a.m. alerted fire crews to the emergency with Mundare being the first to respond, arriving within 20 minutes followed by Bruderheim and Andrew fire crews.

Mundare fire chief Glenda Dales said the 20minute response time is normal for a daytime fire call which are the most difficult to gather volunteer fire fighters for.

“It’s typical. People work during the day, as with most of us, it's very difficult to get fire response during the day,” she said.

“In Mundare we are very fortunate, we do have a number of firefighters that work with the town, or some of us (who are) retired, we're

very fortunate. But this is an ongoing problem across Canada and the US in that they do not have (adequate) daytime response.”

Dales added that despite a frozen water line on the Mundare fire truck, they were still able to fight the fire.

Temperatures were in excess of -25 C.

“One of the lines did freeze up because of the cold,” she said. “We ran that truck over to Andrew (fire department) and brought Andrews’ truck over there. There was no down time at all.”

Andrew Mayor Merwin Haight said he was shovelling snow that morning and noticed the dark plume of smoke coming from a neighbour’s house. He said after calling 911, other residents began to show up and offer a hand to

the homeowner who escaped the blaze uninjured.

One resident, along with village public works employees, knocked on the doors of neighbours to alert them and get them evacuated.

“About six homes were evacuated,” said Haight. “Around eight to 12 people.”

Haight said the displaced residents were housed at the village office where Councillor Tammy Picket and village staff offered them food and coffee.

“This is devastating,” said Haight. “A sad situation that brought many of our community members together to share support.”

Haight added that the homeowner is currently staying with friends.

Meanwhile, Dales said the home was completely engulfed when crews

arrived, and the fire was under control in about 20 minutes using a defensive strategy.

“Put the wet stuff on the red stuff,” she said.

“Protecting all the properties around that was our main goal at that point.”

Dales said the fire is still under investigation

and a cause has not yet been determined.

Meanwhile, Lamont County Fire Chief Shayne Milliken said he was glad more than one fire crew were able to respond.

“It’s never a good time for a fire, especially in the extreme cold,” he said.

“We’re fortunate to operate in a regional fire service environment where fire fighters from across the county can come together to do the work that was needed to be done. Our hearts go out to the family that experienced the loss of their home.”

students

BY JANA SEMENIUK

The Alberta Government announced last month that over $12 million would be sent to Alberta school divisions to support displaced Ukrainian students enrolled in Alberta schools.

Over $100,000 of that funding went to Elk Island Public Schools.

Emily Peckham,

spokesperson for Minister of Education Adriana LaGrange, said by email the payment was processed Nov. 18.

“EIPS received $137,500 based on their Sept. 30, 2022, enrolment,” she said.

Peckham added that school divisions were provided with $5,500 per student with no restrictions, meaning it can also

be used to hire additional teachers and support staff.

She added that additional funding will be forwarded to the divisions in March 2023 to ensure Ukrainian children and students who arrive midway through the school year are also supported.

An Important Part of Baby Care is Eye Care

Research reveals a majority of parents are unaware of the impact vision issues can have on infant development

A baby’s development and learning in the first year and beyond can be significantly impacted by a vision or eye health issue. Recent province-wide research conducted by the Alberta Association of Optometrists reveals that although this is an important component of an infant health check-up, only 39% of parents are taking this step at the recommended 6 to 9 months of age.

“While this finding is concerning, it’s not surprising that new parents may be uncertain about the importance of having their child’s eye health assessed early on,” says Dr. Marc Kallal, an optometrist in Tofield. “There are many changes new parents have to adjust to, and it’s sometimes difficult to know what to prioritize when it comes to baby’s healthy development.”

Between 6 and 9 months is a critical time to ensure eyes are healthy, eye and muscle movements and alignment are developing properly, and the eyes are focusing together. Many vision problems have no easy-to-detect symptoms, which makes it virtually impossible for a parent to tell if an infant has difficulty seeing. A Doctor of Optometry has the ability to test infants for nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, eye movement, as well as overall eye health.

“Appreciating that new parents are often strapped for time, a comprehensive infant eye exam can be completed in about 15 minutes,” says Dr. Marc Kallal. “Knowing baby’s eyes have been thoroughly assessed and any problems detected early, gives parents added peace of mind concerning their child’s overall health.”

Parents are encouraged to speak with their Doctor of Optometry about Alberta Heath cov-

erage for comprehensive eye exams for infants and children under the age of 19. Clinic staff will also discuss what parents can expect in their upcoming visit with their infant.

Alberta optometrists are trained to detect and treat eye health issues in infants, as well as chil-

Infant Eye Care

Doctor’s Note:

dren and adults. They complete a Bachelor of Science degree, followed by a four-year Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited university focused solely on vision and eye health.

For more information, visit infanteyecare.ca.

An infant eye exam is an important step towards ensuring your child is seeing correctly and there are no eye health issues.

Book baby’s eye exam with your optometrist now

Visit InfantEyeCare.ca to learn more.

Dr. Scott Lopetinsky, Optometrist

“ Part of baby care is eye care. Have your infant’s vision and eye health checked.”

EIPS receives $137,500 funding from Provincial Government for displaced Ukrainian

Strathcona Christmas in the Heartland attracts large crowds

BY JOHN MATHER

Large crowds travelled on their own or on provided buses to several locations throughout Strathcona County Nov. 26 and 27 as the annual Christmas in the Heartland was celebrated.

There were vendors, entertainment and other activities located at the Josephburg Community

Church, Good Hope Hall, Josephburg’s Moyer Recreation Centre, Partridge Hill Hall and Brookville Community Hall.

Organizers said more than 1,000 people came out during the two days of activities.

One of the highlights was a Heritage Showcase featuring several hundred examples of

German crafted Nutcrackers on display.

There were sleigh rides available, photos with Santa Claus, ice carving, wool spinners exhibits, bake sales and a Ukrainian themed lunch.

The Saturday evening concluded with a beef on a bun meal hosted by the Fort Saskatchewan 4-H Club and then a massive fireworks display.

Andrew councillor steps away from hiring committee for new village CAO

BY JANA SEMENIUK

The Village of Andrew Councillor Barry Goertz has removed himself from the council’s hiring committee, formed to search for a new Chief Administrative Officer, and Councillor Evan Genung has stepped forward in his place at their Nov. 23 council meeting.

Goertz has been battling cancer since May and said his health forced him to step away from the committee but retain his seat on the council.

“I felt that I didn’t have the mental or physical strength to work through this at this time and that situation needs to be cleared up immediately,” he said by text message.

Goertz has been attending council meetings by speaker phone.

Meanwhile, three members that make up the CAO hiring commit-

tee are Mayor Merwin Haight, Councillor Tammy Pickett and Councillor Evan Genung. The CAO position has been advertised with a closing date of Dec. 31.

Andrew has had several changes in the position of CAO this year, beginning with Sheila Lupul who was hired in Jan. and terminated 10

weeks later.

Former St. Paul County Reeve Steve Upham stepped in as interim CAO until Adam Kozakiewicz was hired July 27 and terminated nine weeks later on Sept. 28.

Upham has stepped forward once more as interim CAO until another new CAO can be hired.

4 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, December 7, 2022

This large display of German nutcrackers drew large crowds of admirers during the Strathcona Christmas in the Heartland event Nov. 26 and 27. Several locations throughout the northern part of the County were sites of displays, entertainment, markets and choirs.

Village of Andrew Councillor Barry Goertz Jana Semeniuk

Photo

BY HAZEL ANAKA

Sincerest apologies to Jeff Foxworthy…. only those with a sense of humour should read on…

When the calendar that was once filled with the kids’ activities, party invitations, important meetings, vacation days is now filled with appointments with doctors, for diagnostic tests, and remedial procedures… you may be an old fart.

When all your original body parts have been replaced with factory ones (dentures, crowns, implants, corneas, knees, and hips)… you may be an old fart.

When you finally go out with friends and spend more time talking about cancer; dementia; great versus okay doctors; side effects of the meds you’re on; the criminally long wait times for appointments, tests, and procedures; than politics and religion combined… you may be

an old fart.

When your joints creak audibly, when you’re stiff and sore after sitting too long, when your “rheumatiz” is acting up... you may be an old fart.

When you’ve dedicated an entire drawer and one whole shelf to your prescription drugs, herbal supplements, anti-inflammatory creams, vitamins, eye drops, inhalers, ice packs, and green tea… you may be an old fart.

When you have a closet full of heating pads, splints, compression wraps, tensor bandages, braces, crutches, a walker, a couple canes, a hearing aid, and Dr. Ho products… you may be an old fart.

When you’d sooner leave your favourite pillow at home than your CPAP machine… you may be an old fart.

When the living room recliner has butt imprints and the buttons on the

TV remote are worn down… you may be an old fart.

When you can recite your good and bad cholesterol numbers, know your hemoglobin results, and measure your sugar levels several times a day… you may be an old fart.

When you hear your parents’ words, phrases, corny expressions, warnings, criticisms, bigotry and biases coming out of your mouth… you may be an old fart.

When you rant and rave about kids these days, the good old days, and how fast the days are flying by… you may be an old fart.

When you curse the internet, computers, the VCR, the government, fine print and dumb setup directions… you may be an old fart.

When you spend so much time searching for words, keys, glasses, names, song titles, and more that little else gets

done in a day… you may be an old fart.

When you drive like you own the road, have all the time in the world, rubberneck the neighbours’ fields, and believe everyone else should know you’re turning left up ahead… you may be an old fart.

When you lay a guilt trip on your kids and grandkids about how they don’t call or visit often enough… you may be an old fart.

When you purposely create conditions so you don’t have to bend down or walk too far… you

may be an old fart.

When you are stubborn, set in your ways, and rigid---to your own detriment and loss of quality of life---you may be an old fart.

When your wardrobe has transitioned to elastic waistbands; loose flowy tops; sensible slip-on shoes; a longer belt; compression stockings; a smaller purse; a clip-on tie; athletic wear even though you haven’t been within miles of a gym or yoga studio… you may be an old fart.

When you lean on counters, grip the wall,

and take the stairs ever so carefully… you may be an old fart.

How, you may ask, do I know all this? Hours of research and reading? A degree in gerontology? Or could it be a good look in the mirror and as an observer of all those I encounter? This list of ‘symptoms’ is tongue in cheek but with a huge dose of truth.

Maybe one day I’ll highlight the other side of the coin: all the strength, wisdom, lived experience, healthy cynicism, and finely tuned bullshit meter us old farts possess because that too is true, from where I sit.

will also be considered.

LCHF offers a competitive remuneration and benefits package. The Manager is accountable to the Chief Administration Officer (CAO) and will be responsible for all aspects of day-to-day operations of the Lodge and the Self-Contained Units.

For detailed description of this position, visit our Website www.lamontchf.ca

application Email your resume and a cover letter to info@lamontchf.ca

mail to Lamont County Housing Foundation P.O. Box 120 5216 53rd Street Lamont AB TOB 2R0 Closing date for this position is December 16th, 2022

The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday,

BY JOHN MATHER

It’s been called stupid. It’s been called “a farce.” It’s been called “unconstitutional” and it’s been called “our Premier Danielle Smith engaging Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a high stakes game of chicken.”

It of course is the Sovereignty within a United Canada Act which Premier Danielle Smith introduced in the Alberta legislature last Tuesday.

Yes sir, there are a lot of experts out there saying lots of nasty things about the Act. And there are others applauding it.

Alberta NDP boss Rachel Notley refused to even stick around for any debate on the Act on day one.

Now she and her colleagues are ruling out any amendments to the Act as well, stating the whole thing has to be deep sixed..

After first saying her pal in Ottawa Justin Trudeau should stop the Act’s passage, showing she is in complete support of Ottawa meddling in Alberta’s affairs, she walked that back stating she was misheard by a number of media outlets and she really meant Smith and the UCP should cancel the Act.

Notley was asked Wednesday about whether Trudeau, who's indicated he may intervene to quash the legislation, should revoke the bill.

“I think if they (the federal government) revoke the act, that would be the right thing to do," Notley said in question period.

Government Whip Brad Rutherford responded, “Ms. Notley cannot just pretend it didn’t happen or deny the clear meaning of her words. She stated she supported the Prime Minister of Canada unilaterally overruling and revoking a law passed by the elected members of Alberta’s Legislative Assembly. She must apologize.”

"It's deeply concerning for me that Albertans have a Premier who doesn't understand the real risks that Albertans and Canadians are faced with,” bleated Rachel’s real boss Jagmeet Singh in Ottawa after Bill 1 started its journey through the Alberta Legislature.

Then on the weekend, he actually ventured out to Edmonton where he said healthcare was being ignored (it’s not) and the housing crisis amongst the homeless needs to be addressed (Something else the province hasn’t ruled out coming to some agreements with the large cities on funding to help these people in crisis).

You see Jagmeet, in Alberta people can do more than one thing at the time. I understand that’s difficult for you to comprehend from your ivory tower in Ottawa, but it’s a fact.

CONTINUED

Maybe if you actually supported the working class rather than just offering easy statements to them you might realize this.

And since you continue to support the most corrupt Federal government in the history of this country, you are part of the problem the Sovereignty Act hopes to resolve.

Later, Notley claimed the introduction of the Alberta Sovereignty Act (ASA) is driving investment out of the province.

“This bill creates economic and unrest investor uncertainty, no question that is very well established, but you know what else creates uncertainty? Having a premier who can't read her own laws,” Notley claimed.

How it can possibly do more damage to this province than what her party did during four years in office is hard to imagine.

No … what Smith has done to date with the Sovereignty Act is kick the Ottawa elite and the Toronto (National) media in the side.

To quote the movie Network rather loosely, “Albertans are mad as hell and we’re not going to take it any more!”

The Act has not yet passed in the Legislature. Amendments will be made to it because Danielle Smith is listening to the experts and Albertans.

She is not hearing the cries of the socialist

hoards crying about how unconstitutional this Act is. Experts on constitutional law, not journalists in a media scrum, say it isn’t.

The Alberta NDP for once have the chance to show they care for Albertans over the jackboot policies of the Federal government which hampers the economic development and creation of jobs in our province.

At a time when the world needs Alberta, Ottawa ignores the world.

Germany came a couple of months ago and said they needed a solid source of Canadian Natural Gas. Trudeau quite emphatically said there was no business case for this.

Last week, Germany signed a 26-year deal with Qatar to source a secure supply of natural gas. Another solid miss by Trudeau.

Not only is he not a strong leader, he’s no businessman.

No, he doesn’t represent the interests of Alberta or the west.

While those same Ottawa and eastern elites and media have been wringing their hands over Alberta’s Sovereignty Act, they don’t seem to see they’ve been letting La Belle Province - Quebecdo the exact same thing for years.

In fact, Bloc Quebecois leader Yves Blanchard came out last week saying he liked the Sovereignty Act but felt Alberta should really seek to separate from Canada.

Albertans don’t want to do that.

Canada is our country. What Albertans want is fair treatment from the Federal government on an equal basis with the two central Canadian provinces of Ontario and Quebec.

Stay out of our economic development. Stay out of areas of provincial jurisdiction.

How does Ottawa know the needs of Albertans from an ivory tower some 2,500 miles away. The Liberal PR Network CBC proved that last week, having a discussion panel on the Sovereignty Act where not one of the panelists was from Alberta. Nor even from outside the 200 miles radius of Ottawa, Toronto and Montreal. How to totally represent a neutral discussion!

With only two elected MPs from this province, one who was caught stealing his opponents’ campaign materials from homes, to help win his seat and both being from the major cities… what can they possibly know of the rest of the province.

No, the Sovereignty Act as it stands right now has poked the east, and now as it makes its way through the Legislature let’s see how the Feds react.

Will other parties in Alberta turn to support Albertans or will they side with Ottawa and create an environment in this province where separatism sentiment becomes stronger than ever?

Kerry

Jana

Crystal Moren

Sovereignty within a United Canada gives eastern elites and media a jolt

Mary Procinsky & In Memory of William J. Procinsky; Al & Carol Ropchan, Mark, Ginger, Taylor & Elie Ropchan, Kim, Derek, Jarret & Tyson Burns; Erich & Rosena Frobel; Terry & Patty Oleksyn; Ed & Donna Kucherawy; The Little Things; DJ Fedun; Julian, Joannie & Kaitlyn Lopushinsky; Larry & Sonya Doskoch; Tim Chykerda; Marsh & Zenia Maydanski & Family; Ken & Denise Dorland & Family; Antoinette Siracky; Kzam Farms & Ken Wegner; Mark & Deborah Bolicerkowec; Anonymous; Steve Stodola; Ramond & Rita Paquette; Nancy Tymchak; Mary Anne & Milton Holowach; Richard & Sharon Johnston; Park Memorial; Anthony & Elaine Peddle;

Three new businesses open in Lamont under one roof

BY JANA SEMENIUK

Three new businesses have joined forces under one roof in the town of Lamont with a grand opening celebration and ribbon cutting on Dec. 2.

Perks Dental owner/ hygienist Jennifer Sobkow purchased the former Egyptian Tanning building, next to Parkview Restaurant, which will now not only house her second dental hygiene location, but also her new business, Advanced Therapeutic Massage (whose massage therapist is Jessie Vincent) in addition to Direct Line Insurance (Lamont branch) owned by Kori Maki and Gord Enders.

Enders said the arrangement could not have come at a better time.

“We are really pleased to be in Lamont. We actually looked at Lamont as a business opportunity a number of

years ago, but it just didn’t work out,” he said.

“Kori is one of our top people and this was a great opportunity.”

Maki said she started out with Direct Line Insurance in the Edmonton branch.

“I started out as a broker with them in November of 2020. And then together, we partnered up and opened up this branch in Lamont,” she said. “Jennifer Sobkow is the owner of Perks Dental and Advanced Therapeutic Massage, and she owns this building and leases the space to us.”

Mayor Kirk Perrin and Councillor Linda Sieker came for the grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony and gave well wishes to the new businesses.

“It's so great to see these entrepreneurs take on the challenge of opening new businesses in our community,” he said

by messenger. “They have done a wonderful job with their renovations, and I have no doubt they will have a great impact on our community.”

This will be Sobkow’s

second location for Perks Dental Hygiene, having opened her first one in Bruderheim earlier this year. She said she is ecstatic with the current arrangement in Lamont and sees an advantage to

all three businesses sharing expenses under the same roof.

“Our building allows these three up and coming businesses to thrive off of one another, reduce expenses and hopefully

help to ensure success for years to come,” she said by text.

“We are ecstatic to be able to add a few more businesses to Main Street.”

8 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, December 7, 2022

A ribbon-cutting ceremony at the grand opening Dec. 2 of three new businesses under one roof in LamontPerks Dental Hygiene, Advanced Therapeutic Massage, and Direct Line Insurance. They are housed in the former Egyptian tanning building next to Parkview restaurant. L-R: Kori Maki, part-owner of the Lamont branch of Direct Line Insurance, Jessie Vincent, Massage Therapist, Lamont Mayor Kirk Perrin, Insurance broker, Angie Morlock and dental hygienist Jennifer Sobkow. Photo: Jana Semeniuk

Mundare Christmas Extravaganza does well despite parade cancellation

BY JOHN MATHER

Despite cancellation of it annual winter parade, Irene Talaga of Mundare’s Communities in Bloom said the Christmas Extravaganza held in the town Dec. 5 was still a success.

“We didn’t have a lot of entries for the parade this year,” she said.

“And since with the wind chill it was going to be close to -20 degrees we decided to cancel the parade.”

But, she added that didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of those taking part in the Christmas market held at the MRC.

Talaga added the cold weather even led to the

cancellations of three or four booths at the Christmas market. There were still 29 vendors offering up a wide variety of crafts and gift items.

“But the bake sale was the biggest ever,” she stated proudly. “My goodness, we had so much baking. It took us a good amount of Friday and part of Saturday to price it all and get it sorted on the table for sale.

“We had such wonderful support form the whole community,” she added. “We had several new people in town who also made sure they donated some baked goods for the market.”

She said while it was cold outside, the people running the hay rides outside the town office had blankets to keep people warm as they offered rides through the downtown area.

Talaga added all the raffles and 50/50 draws sold well.

ANNUAL MEETING

Evelyn Henke, Mundare library manager, poses in her elf outfit as library board chair Lillian Sabo watches from the background. The elf was at Mundare’s town office to greet children coming in to visit Santa Claus Dec.5.

Batuik Water offices relocating

to Bruderheim

BY JOHN MATHER

The offices of the John S. Batuik Water Commission will be locating to Bruderheim early in the new year.

“I’m just going over the leases right now,” said board member Daniel Warawa, Dec. 6. “We’ve rented out two rooms in the Bruderheim incubator building beside the arena.

“The lease will give us access to the boardroom as well to hold our meetings.”

He said the commission had looked at purchasing their current building in Chipman but found it had some deficiencies which would be costly to repair.

Warawa said new commission chair Al Harvey is starting to settle into his position and some files and furniture have been moved into the new location.

“We’ll be having a grand opening sometime in January I expect,” said Warawa.

Dlata Bozniuk, 10, from Vegreville travelled to Mundare with her family Dec. 5, to visit with Santa Claus at the Town Office and then visit the town’s Christmas market.

Large crowds filled Mundare’s Recreation Centre as a Christmas market was held as part of the town’s Christmas Extravaganza. Spokesperson Irene Talaga said the bake sale table at the market was the “best ever.”

Despite very cold weather, families still came to go for wagon rides that started outside the Mundare Town Office, Dec. 3, part of the Community Christmas Extravaganza. Organizers made sure there were plenty of blankets for riders to be bundled up against the cold. The horses on the other hand didn’t seem fazed by the temperature.

Accident claims two lives at Mundare Hwy. 16 corner

BY JOHN MATHER

A crash between a semi truck and an SUV claimed the lives of two people early Dec.5 at the intersection of Hwy 855 and Hwy. 16 just south of Mundare.

“The semi was travel-

ling westbound on Hwy 16 and the small vehicle was turning on to the highway,” said Mundare Fire Station Chief Glenda Dales. “Whether the SUV skidded or didn’t see the truck, I don’t know.”

She said RCMP closed

the highway for several hours while they investigated the accident which occurred at around 2 a.m. It didn’t reopen until after Mundare Fire and Rescue left the scene at 8 a.m.

Both people in the SUV

were pronounced dead at the scene.

Mundare responded with an engine, a rescue vehicle with extrication tools, and a brush truck which was used for traffic control.

It has been a busy week for the Mundare station having to race to deal with a residence fire in Andrew, a carbon monoxide call, which

turned out to be a faulty carbon monoxide detector, and a cardiac arrest call out.

Minor Hockey

U11 Wild hit the road beating Saddle Lake 19-2

KERRY ANDERSON

These are some of the results from Minor Hockey League games held recently. (Please note that scores and scoring is taken from the websites, and some game scores and scoring is dependent on proper league entries).

Elk Island U11 Wild (13-1) travelled to Saddle Lake on Saturday and beat the home team 19-2 on the strength of 11 second period goals. Sawyer Hanson led the way for EI with six goals and nine points in the contest. Barrett Danilkewich scored five and added an assist. Both Mary Sobkow (3g 3a) and Bryson Lewis had hat tricks. Other scorers were; Austin Klita (3a), Jace Zanatta (1g 1a), and Clara Holt (1g). Clark Wilson and

Zachary Vandelannoite shared the win in goal.

Elk Island U15 Wild (41-1) overcame a 4-2 first period deficit to down Westlock at Bruderheim Arena on Sunday 7-5 despite the referees calling five minors against the home team in the third frame alone.

Kayden Winslow connected four times for Elk Island. Other scorers were; Nicklas Mehlenbacher (1g 1a), Andrew Svitich (1g), Kyran Belcourt (1g), Sydney Cossey (1a), and William Furey (1a). Liam Ellis made 50 saves in goal for the win.

If you have a youngster playing for an out of town team, or a team we haven’t found, email kamcjm@gmail.com and we’ll try to include him/her!

The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, December 7, 2022 - 11

Twenty-month old Adara Levicki isn’t sure what to make of Santa Claus as she paid him a visit at the Lamont Firehall Dec. 3. The firemen invited Santa to the Robert Mitchell Firehall and asked guests coming to visit the jolly old fellow and to bring a donation for the Lamont Food Bank

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Because if I want The Leader to cover my event or provide space for my event, I know they need revenue to pay for it! One hand washes the other. I never take without giving back.

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For years there was no media in the Lamont County area, just leaching media from other areas covering events here only for advertising dollars and no vested interest.

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I budget a portion of my revenue to advertising with The Leader. It’s smart business to re-invest in promoting my business.

I see other successful businesses advertising in The Leader. Great minds think alike!

County tax rate may be finalized next week

BY JOHN MATHER

Lamont County residents will be facing a tax increase next year, but the actual amount of the increase won’t be known until final requisitions from the Lamont Health Board and Elk Island School Board are received.

County councillors spent several days last week debating and cutting items proposed for the 2023 budget from the various departments and administration.

The council focussed on four priority factors in this budget including inflation costs; maintaining infrastructure; services and seniors housing; and focusing on development in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland.

At the end of several days of discussions, the council adopted a motion “that council approve the 2023 operating and capital budget as

amended with an eight per cent increase to the farm and residential tax (mill) rates.”

This will come before  council at its next meeting Dec. 13.

While the eight per cent increase is on the mill rates, Division Five Councillor Neil Woitas said the actual increase shouldn’t be more than about one and a half per cent.

“I know on my home farm the actual increase will work out to about an additional $50 a year,” he said. “We’ll be finalizing the interim budget Dec. 13.”

“We’re going to probably have a big increase in both our health board and education requisitions,” he said. “In addition the price of fuel and the cost of equipment has gone through the roof this year.”

Both Woitas and Division One Councillor

Dan Warawa said the cost of a new grader has jumped from $400,000 to more than $60,000 in a year and the price of a new fire brush truck has jumped considerably.

Woitas said the cost of policing is also going to cost more money.

“We have to cut back on our gravelling program,” he said. “But the price of a grader and a fire truck both went up $200,000.”

One fast attack truck was approved for the fire department for 2023.

Woitas and Warawa said the County taxes will be in line with other counties in the region of comparable size.

“We have to pay more to heat our buildings,” said Woitas. “It doesn’t matter what we buy there’s carbon tax added to it and that is going to increase.”

“We have no choice,” he concluded.

Warawa admits any tax increase will be a tough sell to County residents, “but what can you do?”

“There’s just so many increases to the County doing business,” he said. “The costs of equipment is outrageous.

“I don’t know what the reasons are behind the increases,” he added.

“We’re going to try

and hold our side of the budget but with the outside requisitions still to come in who knows what they might be?”

He said he heard several possible rate percentages tossed about “but we’ve got to wait until things are finalized.”

Warawa said with wages up, gravel costs up an increase is just the

cost of doing business.

“You look at equipment and supplies,” he said. “Look at insurance rates… everything seems to be spiralling out of control. We're trying to hold the line for our residents but it’s really a hard thing to do with the costs of everything these days.”

OBITUARIES

Alison McLaren, formerly of Fairview, AB, recently of Lloydminster AB, passed away peacefully in the Lloydminster Hospital on November 26, 2022, at the age of 87.

Alison was predeceased by: her parents, Gordon and Nellie Archer (Dodson); spouse and love of her life,

Alison was survived by: her daughter, Connie McLaren (former spouse and friend Larry Dziuba); grandchildren, Laurel and Garrett Dziuba; daughter, JoAnn Aman (Terry); grandchildren, Emily and Mark Aman; sister, Kay Bennion (Doug). Also survived by many nieces and nephews, some great and some great great.

Born in Lamont, AB, October 17, 1935, Alison later moved to Fairview where she met her love, Gordon McLaren. They

Work begins during fourth session of 30th Legislature

MLA Jackie Armstrong Homeniuk

This past Nov. 29, marked the beginning of the Fourth Session of the 30th Legislature.

I and my colleagues returned to the Legislature, looking to take the thoughts, concerns, and ideas we heard from our constituents over the past summer and turn them into positive changes for all Albertans.

The Government of Alberta, with our new Premier Danielle Smith, is committed to making life more affordable for all Albertans. We know Albertans, like all Canadians, are suffering from the effects of infla-

tion that have made everything from groceries to fuel more expensive, and that is why the Premier has already announced a wide range of inflationtargeted supports for individuals and families.

I would also like to note that the beginning of Session does not mean an end to listening to your concerns. If you have anything you would like to bring up with me, please reach out to my office at FortSaskatchewan.Veg reville@assembly.ab.ca.

On Dec. 1, the Government of Alberta announced that early childhood educators will

be getting a one-time payment and wage topup to help recruit and retain staff. As we head into the Christmas season, we will be providing a one-time payment of $450 for part-time and $900 for full-time educators.

Wage top-ups will increase to up to a $8.64 top-up per hour (a $2 dollar increase from the previous maximum wage top-up of $6.64 per hour). Early Childhood Educators are at the heart of our childcare system, and we are fully committed to supporting them to continue caring for our children.

passing of Victor Peter Mayowski on Monday, November 28, 2022, at the age of 85 years.

Victor is survived by his wife of 65 years, Evelyn; children, Dwayne (Tracy), Glenn (Debbie), Melvin (Jacqueline) and Kevin; grandchildren,

Jennifer, Brandy, Sarah, Cody, Chrissy, Chelsea, Courtney, Jesse, Justina, Danielle, Brandon, Melanee, Brooklyn and Matthew; 32 beautiful great-grandchildren; and his siblings.

He was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Pearl; and sisters, Helen and Elsie.

Victor’s boisterous and mischievous ways will be missed. He will be remembered for joking around with his grandkids, always providing a helping hand for those in need and through the many masterpieces he created. He was also

farmed in the Green Island District, south of Fairview, for many years. After Dode’s passing in 2011 she moved to town and then to the Harvest Lodge. She relocated to Lloydminster this past year to be closer to her daughters near Kitscoty, AB.

The Celebration of Life and Internment will take place in Fairview, AB, in the later part of May 2023. Full obituary and service details will be published, in the Fairview Post, in the spring.

Donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made to: The Fairview Health Complex Foundation, Box 2141, Fairview, AB T0H 1L0.

known for his love of farming, horses and cattle. Gatherings won’t be the same without Victor’s stories and guidance. You will forever remain in our hearts.

A Divine Liturgy will be held Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, Chipman with interment to follow in Church Cemetery.

Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com. Park Memorial Lamont 780-895-2157

Family-Owned Funeral Home And Crematorium

The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, December 7, 2022 -

Gordon (Dode) McLaren; two sons, Dave and Donnie McLaren; and two brothers, Ashley and Bill Archer.

McLaren, Alison

MAYOWSKI,

The Chipman 4-H Beef and Multi Club held a Christmas party at St. Michael Community Hall Dec. 4. A total of 101 kids and adults braved the cold to attend the event. In addition to visiting Santa, the kids put on a Nativity play coached by Nellie Sobkow. Above the three wisemen visit with Joseph and Mary and the Baby Jesus, while angels and shepherds watch from behind.

PUBLIC NOTICE

ALBERTA SULPHUR TERMINALS INC.

ENVIRONMENTAL

PROTECTION

AND ENHANCEMENT

NOTICE OF APPLICATION

ACT

In accordance with the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, Alberta Sulphur Terminals Inc. has applied to Alberta Environment and Parks to cancel the approval (227584-00-00) for the company’s Bruderheim Sulphur Forming and Shipping Facility. The facility was approved to be located on 35-55-20W4M, County of Lamont. The application states that no construction activities were started due to the downturn in the oil and gas market and hence the proposed site is undisturbed.

A directly affected person may provide input into certain regulatory decisions, as allowed by the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (section 73). Specifically, any person who is directly affected by this application may submit a written statement of concern within 30 days of the date of this notice to:

Environment and Protected Areas Regulatory Assurance Section Approvals Unit

5th Floor, South Petroleum Plaza 9915 - 108 ST

EDMONTON, AB T5K 2G8

Fax: (780) 422-0154

E-mail: aep.epeaapplications@gov.ab.ca

The written statement of concern should include the following:

- the application number 006-227584

- describe concerns that are relevant to matters regulated by the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act

- explain how the filer of the concern will be directly affected by the activities proposed in the application

- provide the legal land location of the land owned or used by the filer where the concerns described are believed to be applicable

- state the distance between the land owned or used by the filer and the site in the application - contact information including the full name and mailing address of the filer. Please provide a telephone number and/or email address for ease of contact.

Environment and Protected Areas will review each written statement of concern, seek more information if needed, and notify each filer by letter of the decision to accept or reject their written submission as a valid statement of concern. The Public Notice of this application will also be posted on the Department’s website at https://avw.alberta.ca/PublicNoticesViewer.aspx.

Statements of concern submitted regarding this application are public records which are accessible by the public and the applicant. Failure to file a statement of concern may affect the right to file a Notice of Appeal with the Environmental Appeals Board.

Copies of the application and additional information can be obtained from: Alberta Sulphur Terminals Inc. Attention: Chelsea Smart c/o Secure Energy Services Inc. 2300 225 6 Avenue SW Calgary AB T2P 1N2 Telephone: (587) 233-3453 Email: csmart@secure-energy.com

AUCTIONS

MEIER UNRESERVED GUN & SPORTSMAN AUCTION.

Saturday, Dec 17 - 10AM, 4740 57 St. Wetaskiwin, AB. Consign Now. Free Pickup. Phone 780-440-1860. Visit www.meierauction.com for more details.

CARD OF THANKS

The family of David Laube would like to thank everyone for the cards, flowers and donations made in his honour. A special thank you to the Doctors and Nursing staff at St. Mary’s Hospital. Also, a special thanks to the amazing staff at Bethany Meadows. Your kindness towards David while he was in your care was greatly appreciated. Thank you to Pastor Greg and Weber Funeral Home for all of your help and to the Bruce Church Ladies for making a wonderful lunch. The support from everyone during this difficult time was greatly valued.

The Laube Family

COMING EVENTS

Round Hill Ag Society, Round Hill Christmas Market Monday Dec 12 from 5 pm - 7 pm. For a free table call Terry 780-678-6131

FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2023 AUCTION PROGRAM:

Rifles, Shotguns,Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items for Auction, or Possible Purchase: Toll-Free 1800-694-2609, Email Us @ sales@switzersauction.com or Visit Us @ www.switzersauction.com.

COMING EVENTS

LUTEFISK SUPPER

Golden Valley Lutheran Church Friday, Jan 6th, 2023 at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are $30.00 each

ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY Contact Muriel at 780-336-2444

You're Invited to Listen to the Gospel Story told simply and without obligation

Starting Thursday, January 12, 19, 26, and February 2. 7:30 p.m. at the Viking Legion Hall call 403-815-9045 for more info

Viking Christmas Market

Sponsored by the Viking Health Care Auxiliary Thursday, December 8 From 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. At the Viking Community Hall Tables $25 Contact Dorothy for more info 780-336-2539

Brian’s Greenhouse U-Pick Fruits & Berries

Now taking orders for next Spring on Trees, Shrubs, and Perennials ONLY UNTIL DECEMBER 30! Prices Will be Going up in 2023! Willows - $40 each

•Acute Willow (4 years old)

•Sharp Leaf Willow (4 years old)

•(30) Laurel Leaf Willow (2 years old)

•(20) Swamp Willows Poplars - $30 each

•Bomb Gilens Natural Goji Berries - $25 each

•(63) Planted Sept 15/22

No guarantees/no refunds/no exchanges. All orders must have 50% down deposit. If interested, give us a call at 780-678-0053 before December 30 (all by appointment)

(East Lynn Road RR172 off Highway 13. East of Bawlf. 1 1/4 km North (second place on the right)) CAREER TRAINING

Massage Therapy offers many options. Study full time or in a distance format. Contact the

FEED AND SEED

ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.

FOR RENT

Small 2 bedroom house for rent. Close to Viking School. Comes with appliances and utilities. Available December 1. Phone 780336-6089 or 780-336-6088 for inquiries.

For Rent - Dec. 1. 3 bedroom 1 bath duplex in Killam. Fenced yard, laundry hook-ups. Utilities NOT included. $700/month plus $700 Damage Deposit. Pet Friendly, minimum 1 year lease. 780-226-8598.

Large, quiet, non-smoking 2 bedroom apartment in Killam. For viewing, call Chuck at 780-2637290

FOR SALE

2003 Dodge 2500 Laramie Regular Cab, 4WD, Hemi. 185,000 kms. Command start. New tires. Great shape. $10,000. 780-385-4411 Please leave message if no answer.

Puppies for sale. American Cocker Spaniel male & female. $1000 and up, will hold with a deposit until Christmas. 780-6623196, 780-662-0410

LAND FOR SALE

3 QUARTERS OF CROPLAND South of Weyburn, SK. Distressed sale. Priced below market at 1.27 x assessment, with a 4% return with lease. $594,800.00. Call Doug at 306-716-2671.

FARMLAND AND PASTURE LAND BY SASKATCHEWAN RIVER. 160 acres. Best hunting in Saskatchewan. Excellent fishing. Thick pine & poplar bluffs, by water coulee. Old yard site with power and water. Revenue Potential. East of Prince Albert, SK. $248,000. Call Doug 306-7162671.

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. 49p

SERVICES

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.

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com.

Licensed electrician, panel upgrades. add a circuit, basement renovations. Also offer thermal electrical inspection. Call Rob 780288-7370.

Drywall Taping/Texturing 35+ Years. No Job too small Experienced drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job big or small. Don't want to do it yourself, give me a call! Based in Killam but willing to travel.

Hand taper by trade but have experience with boxes, roller/flusher, taping tube. No bazooka exp. Have own tools (10-12" boxes, pump, angle box, roller, flusher, hand tools, etc.) Also do ceiling texture. Non- drinker, just want to work. Willing to work with existing taping crew. Call 780-385- 2106 or 780-385-1251.

Shane’s Stucco & Drywall Service

Shane Hollar Stucco (Traditional & Acrylic), Drywall, Stone, Textured Ceilings, Tile and Spray Painting 780-336-4832 shanes.stucco@gmail.com

Painting Quality Residential and Commercial Painting Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749 or 780-688-3564

Roy's Handyman Services. Flooring, Trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work. Call 780-232-3097

Town & Country Guardian Drugs - Killam

We have:

Kodak picture maker.

colour/b&w photocopier.

pop and fresh snacks.

great selection of candles, giftware, and fragrances. toys, games,and plush animals. •a huge selection of Hallmark cards. •plastic gift cards •vitamins, minerals, and herbals. •free gift wrapping. •prescription service Open 6 days a week.

SERVICES

Carpet and Upholstery cleaningresidential and commercial. Truck mount unit, sewer backup, and flood cleaning. Auto and RV Cleaning. Call John and Sheri at Fancy Shine Auto and Carpet Care at 780-384-3087

Need to re-order: •Company Forms? •Invoices?

•Envelopes?

•Business Cards? •Bookmarks? •Score Cards?

•Certificates?

•Receipts? •Posters? •Menus?

•Invitations?

•Calendars? •Letterhead? Call your local paper with your print order today!

WEEKLY REVIEW Ph. 780-336-3422

Email: vikingreview @gmail.com

TOFIELD MERCURY Ph. 780-662-4046

Email: adsmercury @gmail.com

LAMONT LEADER Ph. 780-895-2780

Email: lmtleader @gmail.com

TRAVEL

DARE TO DREAM BIG! Dream a Little Dream with us. Airdrie Dream Vacation Lottery Draw 2023. Purchase tickets at: airdriedreamvacation.ca. $35,760. 12 monthly draws in Travel Vouchers & Cash plus $3,900 in EARLY BIRDS. Knights of Columbus Airdrie Council 8045. License #614455.

The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, December

SANTAENTERTAINSCHILDREN AT ST. MICHAEL HALL

As this family of Chipman 4-H Beef and Multi Club kids sat on Santa’s lap Dec. 4 at the St. Michael Hall one can see the various expressions kids have when visiting the jolly fellow. The young boy on the left has a look of suspicion, while the baby in plaid looks scared. But the girl on the right appears to be very happy to have shared her secrets with Santa.

Village of Andrew making headway on collecting unpaid property taxes

BY JANA SEMENIUK

Steve Upham reported at the Nov. 23 council meeting that the Village has collected nearly half of the $200,000 in unpaid property taxes from residents, some which have been in arrears for more than six years.

In addition to collecting the taxes, Upham said the number of properties up for auction also came down because of last-minute payments by property owners.

“The great news is from a list of eight properties (up for auction) we were down to two at sale time,” he said. “The staff stepped up to do what was required dealing

with property owners, real estate agents, and mortgage brokers. It's been an exciting time as we've had to meet deadlines.”

Upham said there was supposed to be three properties for auction, but one owner who owed more than $22,000 also paid up at the last moment.

“It was a big one that was supposed to sell but the mortgage holder couriered a check for the taxes,” he said. “It came in at five minutes to three in the afternoon.”

He said that unfortunately neither of the other two properties sold and will now be turned over to the Village.

“It's in tax forfeiture, so we can go ahead and sell

the property, but all we can take from the proceeds of that sale would be the outstanding tax,” he said.

Earlier this year, Upham and Village Council discovered the Village was owed more than $200,000 in unpaid property taxes in addition to the $20,000 in unpaid residential water bills.

Merwin Haight, who was deputy mayor at the time, said that 20 percent of the Villages tax role was in arrears.

In a later interview, Upham added that the Village has so far also collected half of the over $20,000 in unpaid residential water bills.

•

Employment Opportunity

Job Type: Finance /Accounting / Economics Organization: Village of Ryley Closing date: December 9, 2022

Job Description:

The Village of Ryley is currently accepting applications for the position of Accounting Clerk. This is a part time position working an average of 3 days per week.

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Accounting Clerk is primarily responsible for the following areas of village operations:

• Accounts Payable

• Accounts Receivable

• Taxes and Utilities

• Payroll and Benefits

• Bank reconciliations

• May assist with budget preparation, financial reporting, and year end support

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Minimum 3 years relevant work experience ideally in a municipal setting;

• Completion of certificate or diploma program in accounting;

• Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel;

• Experience with Muniware software;

• A positive, friendly attitude and the willingness to learn new skills.

The village offers a friendly working environment where teamwork is an essential component.

Application Return

Please forward your cover letter and resume by December 9, 2022 to: Ron Cust, CAO, email: cao@ryley.ca

EADER THE LAMONT

•

•

• Monday, Dec. 19 - OFFICE OPEN

• **TUESDAY**, Dec. 20 - FINAL PAPER OF 2022 HITS STORES & MAILBOXES! Out a day early!

• Wednesday, Dec. 21 - Tuesday, Dec. 27 - OFFICE CLOSED

There will be no response to any messages during this time due to staff holidays. We will still be receiving submissions via email for our January 5 paper & subscriptions can be renewed online!

• Wednesday, Dec. 28 & Thursday, Dec. 29 - OFFICE OPEN

Limited staff available due to extended holidays - open for ad bookings & photocopying

• Friday, Dec. 30 & Monday, Jan. 2 - OFFICE CLOSED NEW YEAR’S IN LIEU

• Tuesday, Jan. 3 - OFFICE OPEN. 5pm Deadline for Ads & News Submissions for January 5 edition

• Wednesday, Jan. 4 - OFFICE OPEN

• Thursday, Jan. 5 - First Edition of 2023 Special THURSDAY edition for first week which allows extra time for ads and news submissions

The Village of Andrew Interim Chief Administrative Officer

The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday,