Valentine Cup
Canada’slongestrunningamateurhockey tournament celebrates half century
BY JANA SEMENIUK
More than 300 people filled the stands at the Lamont arena last weekend as the historic 50th anniversary of Lamont’s Valentine Cup got underway.
Organizer and alumni player David Taylor said the players ranged in age from 16 years old to 71. He said it was a weekend where old friends reconnected and new friendships blossomed, in addition to some hard-hitting fun hockey.
“People were still glowing from the Alumni game. We had players from the ’70s still on the ice skating,” said Taylor. “It was a community event. A homecoming. Catching up with people you haven’t seen for 30 or 40 years. That’s the spirit of the Valentine Cup.”
At least 35 former players gathered to form two teams for the Alumni game. The battle was hard fought, with plenty of smiles and laughter, and in the end the Black team beat the red team 6-2.
One highlight of the Alumni game was Ray Lopushinsky, the 89-year-old former referee of the Valentine Cup was on hand to drop the first puck. Reid Lopushinsky wheeled his dad sitting in his wheelchair onto the ice
proudly wearing his referee uniform.
“It’s not his original, but probably (close). I found it two years ago (while) house cleaning,” he said.
Reid said he was very happy to bring his dad out to the game, who was also excited to be there.
“He comes every year just about. He’s just pumped,” he said.
One of the event organizers, David Taylor, said a few words to the crowd and welcomed Jason Starko to sing the national anthem. Each team lined up on either side of Starko and joined in along with the crowd.
Meanwhile, Taylor said several games were played all day Saturday ending in a banquet dinner and dance that night. Results of the tournament were as follows.
E Final: Leftovers won against the Stingers 3-2 in overtime
D Final: Mighty Drunks won against the Tradesmen 5-2
C Final: Gators won against the Toros 5-3
B Final: Healthy Scratches won against the Snappers 6-2
A Final: Shovels won against the MT Netters 6-5 with 10 minutes into overtime.
Reid Lopushinsky (R) and Alumni player Kurt Malica (L) pose with the Valentine Cup's former referee Ray Lopushinsky (C)
The Alumni team's most senior player, Mark Bilocerkowec, 71, smiles at some friends on his way to the ice
Above: Alumni players prepare to line up for the national anthem prior to the game. Below the stands were packed for the alumni game.
Children line up ready to fist bump the players as they exit the ice.
Jana Semeniuk photos
Mundare holds line on franchise agreement fees
BY JOHN MATHER
Mundare council
agreed to hold the line on the municipal franchise fee it has with ATCO Utilities, despite a recommendation that the fee term limit be expanded to 20 years from the current 10-year term.
The franchise agreement gives ATCO exclusive rights to provide a utility service in the town.
The Municipal Franchise fee is applied against the distribution charges the company charges for using municipal infrastructure for its right of ways.
The estimated cost of the 2026 franchise fees in Mundare would be estimated to be $51.68 per month, a fee Chief Administrative Officer Colin Zyla didn’t want to increase..
“A one per cent increase would add an estimated $27 per year or $1.91 per month,” he told council.
Zyla told council the current 10-year agreement signed in 2015 came to an end in 2025 and a new agreement had to be entered into.
The franchise fee, he added is just charged for distribution charges not for actual gas usage.
He said Mundare currently charges 23 per cent and the maximum allowed to be charged is 35 per cent.
Other areas charge various amounts with Andrew charging a fee of 12 per cent; Bruderheim charging 20 per cent; Lamont charging 35 per cent and Vegreville charging 33 per cent.
He added he was recommending a 20-year
agreement but council could hold it at 10 -years.
“Twenty years is a long time,” said Councillor Geoff Hughes.
Other councillors agreed and a motion was passed to enter into a new 10-year agreement.
Zyla added the timeframe didn’t affect the franchise fee. Council, he said could change it if they wished annually.
Councillor Jennifer Johner said she didn’t think the fees should be increased and a motion was passed to keep them the same.
The council then passed first reading of the bylaw to enact the new agreement. It will be advertised and a public hearing will be held prior to second and third readings of the bylaw being held.
26023TG1
Lamont Fish & Game Association Thank You!
The Lamont Fish & Game Association would like to thank ALL their MEMBERS who volunteered their time, contributed donations or sponsored trophies as well as attended our Annual Wild Game Dinner and Trophy Night that was held on February 7, 2026!!
LAMONT
Value Drug Mart
Westland Insurance
We would also like to thank the following, for their support:
E-Max Plastics
Lorane Schreiber
Norwex (Jamie Marouelli)
Town of Lamont
Peaceful Meadow (Tom Hrehorets)
Lamont County Pharmacy
Gondolas Restaurant
Parkview Restaurant
Ruby Restaurant
Petro Canada
Co-operators Insurance
Lamont Curling Rink
Elk Island Catering
Broker Link Insurance
Elk Island Resort
Lamont County
Titan Repair
Lamont Vision Care
Yogi’s Liquor Store
Chuck & Andrea Varga
Realty Advisors (Dan Cholak)
Allied Refrigeration (Klayton Schliler)
Joanne Longarm Quilting
Lamont Curling Club
Fort Sask. / Vegreville MLA
Lamont Hair Boutique
Richardson Pioneer
General Auto
Home Hardware
Trendy Petals
Lamont Foods
Sunshine Liquor Store
Elk Island Studios
Beaver Creek Co-Op
Webb’s Machinery
Painting Fireman
Blue Line Indoor Climate Solutions
Burger Baron
JMP Plumbing
JD’s Sweet Treats
Elk Island Sales TST
(Trevor Schinkinger Trucking)
Lamont Liquor store
The Thrift Shop (Judy Zayac)
The Lamont Leader
Lamont Boarding Kennels
Lamont Lions Club
Lamont Ag. Society
Dr. El-Hajj
BRUDERHEIM
Old Country Sausage
Urban Escape Massage Therapy
BM Services
Bruderheim Ag. Society
Cake Styles (Michelle Styles)
Hillview Acres (Gerald Maschmeyer)
Torsion Screwpiles
FORT SASKATCHEWAN
Friesen Bros
Oleksyn Drywall
Oleksyn Homes
Trail Tire
Dow Centre
Fountain Tire
UFA
Legacy Jewelry
Rig a Jig Baitshop and Tackle
Canada Safeway
Crop Management Network
Home Hardware
Jiffy Lube
Hydro Scotford
Southfort Chev
Sunbelt Rentals
Original Joe’s Restaurant
Canada Custom Auto Works
Great Canadian Oil Change
Boston Pizza
Electric Sasquash Tattoo & Piercing
John Deer – Toy Combine
Fort Sask Eye care – Sunglasses
Fort Auto Body
McEwans
Royal Canadian Legion
Noyen Construction
OTHER
Wydynowski’s Sausage
Butchers and Packers
Halford Hides
Can-Do-It Electric
Gibbons Motor Toy
Town of Redwater
Xtreme Equipment
Stawnichy’s Mundare Sausage
Fishing Hole
P & D Enterprise
Evergreen Funeral Homes
Sherwood Motorsports and Marine Pembina Pipelines
Thank you also to the Lamont Catering Club for preparing our bountiful meal!
Our club has monthly meetings at the Lions Den; the next one is Feb 23rd. All are welcome to attend ! Our AGM is on April 27th ! To purchase or renew your membership, or for more info about our club, please call Robyn Butler at 780-895-7799.
*If for any reason, your business or personal name was missed, please accept our apologies, and know that your contribution was very appreciated!
Minor Hockey: Wild players among top scorers in respective leagues
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). If any players or teams are missing from the report please notify me at kamcjm@gmail.com with
the player name, team and website.
Elk Island U11 Wild’s Alex Holt has 63 goals in only 22 GP this season, with 13a for 76 points. Alex is averaging 3.45 points per game this season. As great as his stats are, Alex is fourth in league scoring, with everyone well behind leader Kyler Dargis of
New coffee roastery and bookshop coming to Mundare Main Street
BY GRANT JOHNSON
Residents of Mundare will soon have a new place to gather, sip fresh coffee, and discover Canadian literature, as ‘dare Books & Brew prepares to open its doors on Main Street in the coming weeks.
Owner Tammie Smart says the new coffee bean roastery and specialty tea shop will focus on promoting Canadian coffee while also supporting fellow local businesses.
The shop plans to feature locally made products, including fresh bread from the bakery and cinnamon buns from Baba’s Bistro, located just down the street.
In addition to in-store offerings, ‘dare Books & Brew will provide convenient bagged lunches designed for busy workers. Customers will be able to call ahead and pick up a thermos of freshly brewed coffee, a sandwich, and a slice of pie.
Smart, who is also a suspense thriller author, hopes the shop will serve
as more than just a café.
She plans to highlight Canadian publishing houses and authors bringing greater awareness to homegrown talent.
As part of that commitment to giving back, Smart says 20 percent of book sales will be donated to Wounded Warriors Canada and the Homes For Heroes Foundation, both organizations that support Canadian veterans
Beyond coffee, tea,and food,the shop is expected to become a community hub. Smart is planning a variety of events, including author talks, craft and paint nights, and Saturday movie afternoons for children.
More than anything, Smart says she wants visitors to feel at ease when they walk through the doors.
“I want people to feel like they’re home,” she said.
“Comfortable enough to take off their shoes and stay awhile.”
Mallaig who is averaging nearly eight points per game. The Elk Island team has a 12-9-1 record heading into the final games of the season.
Elk Island U13 Wild (14-8-0) have been led this season by Kayden King (46g 9a) with 55points in 22 GP, as well as Mary Sobkow (33g 15a) with 48-points in 20 GP. The two leading scorers are in third and seventh place respectively in league scoring.
The U15 Wild Rangers won a 6-4 game on Thursday against
NW608 led by Landon Dagg Jones’ hat trick (3g 1a). Other scorers were; Tyson Jonker (1g 1a), Sawyer Hanson (1g 1a), Maximus Maschmeyer (2a), Braden Tapley (1g), Matthew Pinno (1a), and Carter O’Connell (1a).
On Sunday at Sherwood Park Shell Arena, Wild Rangers downed SP608 5-1. Landon got another hat trick in the contest.
Tyson Jonker and Jaxson Osicki also scored. Assists went to; Sawyer Hanson, Jaxson Vadeboncoeur, and Carter O’Connell.
Maschmeyer picks up second Olympic victory
BY JOHN MATHER
Bruderheim’s Emerance Maschmeyer backstopped the Canadian Women Olympic Hockey team to a berth in the semi finals on Feb. 14, when her team downed Germany by a 5-1 margin.
Canadian star Marie-Philip Poulin coming back from an injury suffered earlier in the tournament scored a third period marker to tie her with
Hayley Wickenheiser for the most goals in Olympic Winter Games history.
The Canadians played Switzerland in the semi finals Monday afternoon and skated to a 2-1 win behind the netminding of Ann-Renee Desbiens. She stopped seven of the eight shots.
The win propels Canada to the gold medal game on Thursday when they face off against the United States.
Wheat:
CWRS - AAC Brandon - Improved Rated MR for FHB resistance
- Most widely grown CWRS variety in Western Canada for 5 years
CWRS - AAC Wheatland VB
-Wheat Midge tolerant - Very good lodging resistance
CWSWS - AC Andrew - Great silage option
-In demand by milling and ethanol industries
New Varieties Coming in 2027 - AAC West King - AAC Stoughton
Yellow Peas:
CDC Canary - Improved standability -Early maturity -Higher Yielding Faba Beans:
CDC 219-16 - Zero Tannin
- Seed is smaller than Snowbird, larger than CDC Snowdrop
6-Row Feed Barley:
AB Advantage - Improved plump and bushel weight - Smooth awned -High grain and forage yield
2-Row Malt Barley:
CDC Churchill - Increasing demand by Malting Companies, Yielding 109% of CDC Copeland
Tammie Smart
BY HAZEL ANAKA
I’ve barely surfaced from my office in the last week. Because I’m an avowed life-long learner I said yes to a free online course. It’s funny how the mind views anything free. In some cases, we hear that old saw about “getting what you paid for” and believing it can’t possibly be any good. In other cases, our experience, sophistication, and cynicism have us wondering ‘what’s the c atch?’ And sometimes we just grab a good thing when we see it. Let’s break that thinking down. In some cases, you definitely get what you pay for. Zero investment equals zero value. I think we’ve all been there. That may be a good time to take a good hard look at who’s offering this gift. Do they
FROM WHERE I SIT: Giddy with Possibilities
have credibility?
Longevity in their field?
Testimonials and endorsements? If you don’t know the person, how did you find out? Was it a referral from someone you do know and respect? In this case, yes.
As a subscriber to Janine’s newsletter for several months, I see her credibility and sincerity week after week. She’s a fellow Albertan, a highly successful entrepreneur in the publishing world. I can hold her precious books and magazines in my hands and appreciate the craftsmanship and quality of a passion project. When she recommends someone, I trust her. The fact that she has an affiliate link and will receive a commission doesn’t faze me. It is rightly deserved and smart business. In fact, later this month I will be privileged enough to interview her in my live Heart to Heart with Hazel series.
So, that was the original impetus. Then the ball was in my court. I signed up and showed up for every single session Bonnie offered including watching replays and downloading resource materials. I
sat through live Q & A’s and realized that she is an international expert, organized, succinct, endlessly patient, generous, and reassuringly calm. My spidey sense detected not a whiff of huckster.
So, the free training was exceptional. Check. Bonnie’s street cred and personal success were also exceptional. Check. As for ‘what’s the catch?” It’s simple. It is a proven way all successful teachers, trainers, experts convince people to invest in further paid training. The freebie was a good start but there is more, much more available. See if you recognize any of these techniques to ‘convert’ a sampler into a student buyer. Early, often exclusive access to registration; an early bird discount; a sense of urgency---a limited time to get this annual course (if not now, then wait a year); add-on bonuses while quantities last.
So, why did I sign up for this expensive intensive 12-week course?
‘When the student is ready, the teacher will appear’ is something I truly believe. Timing matters. Buying a course when you know you
Lamont and Area
LAMONT UNITED CHURCH 5306 - 51 Ave., Lamont, AB 780-895-2145
Rev. Carolyn Woodall
can’t complete it is something I’ve done before and it doesn’t feel good. All week long, we heard from people who thought they were too broke, too young, too old, too busy to do it. Yet, they overcame the barriers and went onto success. For me, it’s a now or never thing.
I bought it because learning Adobe Illustrator is a huge part of the course and my past attempts to learn it were dismal failures. It is software that is an industry standard, expensive, and very difficult to learn. But because of those very things, very few people do it so it opens untold doors of opportunity.
So, you may think that I’m all set. No. In order to even do the free course work, I needed to buy the software which is expensive ($365/annually). Then I discovered my 2019 MacBook Pro is considered “vintage and obsolete.” I can no longer get iOS upgrades. Last year, almost to the day, I knew a new laptop was inevitable so I invested in an expensive machine with lots of horsepower. And it sat in its unopened box until Tuesday at which time I
Everyone Welcome! AA Meetings Thursdays at 8:00 pm Bruderheim
charged it up. Anyone who’s ever upgraded a computer with a lot of content on it, knows that migration of data from old to new is not for the impatient or angry. It can take as long as 15 hours to complete so I did mine overnight. Then several more hours to upgrade to the new iOS. Despite my best and repeated efforts, I could not download Illustrator. Cue the first of several calls to Apple Care. For those people who can’t understand why Apple products cost so much more than PCs, the human support alone is worth it. If anyone has ever gotten live tech support from Microsoft I want to meet them. One area in which Apple is deficient is their suite of office software. So, I've always run the Microsoft for Mac Office software. By now, you’ve guessed correctly that my 2019 software was no longer compatible or supported. So, I bought the 2024 version for the one-time price of $200 versus the monthly subscription plan. Trigger more annoyances requiring more tech calls.
Then I cleaned my desk surface so I can buckle down and get my
weekend homework done. You’d be so proud of me. I didn’t swear once. I didn’t rant or rave. I watched and rewatched and rewound and rewatched the training videos some more. I reached out to Bonnie’s team for tech support. The guy helping me created a video with stepby-step instructions and voiceover to help with a particular problem. While I waited for more help I wrote this column. I am within minutes, okay maybe a couple hours of having done the assignment and proving something monumental to myself. When we want something bad enough, when we are willing to pay for the best, when we find qualified and quality instruction, when we forego all else, we can succeed. I’m too smart to believe the challenges are all behind me; that there won’t be many, many long days of frustration ahead; or that I won’t second-guess this decision at some point. Right now, though I’m on cloud nine and giddy with the possibilities that await me, from where I sit.
[Update: I went to bed after nearly 12 hours in my office with the work not complete. But I’m back at it.]
Opinion
The Olympics: love the sports, hate the broadcast
BY JOHN MATHER
I must admit I’ve been spending a lot of free time the past week watching the winter Olympics.
But while I enjoy the sports, there are several aspects of the Canadian broadcast which I can’t stand.
Firstly, it was provided by CBC, and is their telecast whether watching CBC, TSN or Sportsnet. Or as the national broadcaster likes to brag, it can also be seen on several live stream platforms which our taxpayer dollars support.
Now, every morning I generally wake up about 4 a.m. and listen to CBC am in Edmonton.
The earlier broadcasts are quite good listening because they are international forums from around the world.
One day it might be German broadcasts, another Australia or programming out of New York or Africa.
Then comes the CBC morning show which has dropped off considerably since Mark Connelly stepped down a few months ago. I’m sorry but Tara McCarthy is just not the same folksy personality that Connelly was.
In fairness I must admit to having crossed paths with Connelly a few times many years ago when I worked in the Edmonton media and he was a CBC sports reporter.
But during this morning show, I do get my first reporting on the Olympics.
It’s nor bad and since CBC does provide a reasonable early morning newscast that I can tolerate despite its inherent bias. That is until Sunday, when Canada won a gold medal.
Now I support the Canadian athletes but I’m not a raving, looney fanatic.
But the CBC on-scene broadcasters fawn over every possible step our athletes take.
They don’t walk on water, CBC!
The athletes do their job which is to attempt to be at the top of their game and just possibly become the best in the world during the Olympics.
And then I get up, dress and watch the broadcast on television.
CONTINUED
When Canada’ s Mikael Kingsbury won a gold medal in men’s dual moguls the two announcers acted like a pair of mating hyenas.
They screamed and fawned over Kingsbury’s achievement. It was actually worse than listening to the South American broadcaster who can’t contain himself when Brazil or Argentina scores a goal in world class soccer.
And CBC deemed it great to show these two buffoons over and over again through the day.
And then we’re making such a big deal out of this being the first time since 2014 that professional hockey players are taking part in the Olympics men’s hockey.
I’ve watched the team with tremendous respect for their abilities. But Canadian announcers just don’t seem to give much respect to any other team that comes up against the Canadians.
But at least most of the CBC men’s hockey crew has NHL broadcast experience and do seem to curtail their homer attitude for the most part.
After all, there are NHLers on almost every other men’s team in the tournament.
And the women’s team is now composed of professional hockey players. A total of 61 Professional Women’s Hockey League players are from various countries playing in the Olympic tournament.
And I expect the Canadian women will represent our country very well.
In fact, when it comes right down to it almost all of the athletes competing in the Olympics are professional athletes.
Some don’t make as much money as others, and many have to find their own way to raise money to get to the games.
But then again most of the sports in the Winter or Summer Olympics don’t have professional leagues. If they did, all the athletes would be professional.
So it would be nice if the Olympics organizing body stopped calling them amateur.
I can see amateur athletes at any curling club or hockey rink throughout our readership area. These are the true amateurs.
The fine athletes at the Olympics are professionals. It’s that simple.
So why can’t the announcers match that with some restraint. Tell the story… don’t drool over it.
And why, oh why, with the CBC broadcasts do I see so many commercials promoting Ontario's economic development and the Ontario Lottery Corporation supporting Ontario based athletes.
Don't we have a lottery corporation in Western Canada. Are there not other provinces with economic development plans?
This Ontario-centric promotion doesn’t make Albertans soften their stance on separatism. It strengthens it because it continues to show CBC doesn’t understand the country that exists beyond the reaches of Greater Toronto.
We are a country of regions and when you put a show on across the country, put your people on the streets to show commercials from those regions not just the Greater Toronto region and nationally advertised brands.
But speaking of the commercials, while most of them tear at your heartstrings yet still exist only to siphon money from your pockets, I must admit I like the Petro Can advert with the bear doing feats of figure skating, curling, hockey, speed skating and ski along with some of the Olympic athletes. Put together with “Do the Bearcat” tune by Canadian musician David Wilcox, it shows imagination and actually makes the viewer possibly want to get off the couch and dance.
I haven’t reached that point yet.
Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter
Jana Semeniuk Reporter
Moren
Arrest made in Two Hills 36 years after crime
GoldenStateKillertechnologyusedincase
BY JANA SEMENIUK
A Two Hills man suspected of a sexual assault was finally arrested 32 years after the crime when police used newer technology called Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG).
Using IGG, investigators can take DNA left behind at a crime scene, or unidentified remains, and compare them to DNA submitted to publicly available data bases. A family tree of the suspect is then traced which can help pinpoint their identity.
According to reports, in June of 1992, a 32year-old woman reported to police that she had been sexually assaulted in her Two Hills home at knifepoint while her children were present. Police recovered DNA at the scene but had no suspects at the time.
In 2021, the woman’s file was revisited and although this time a suspect was identified, there was not enough evi-
dence to proceed with charges. Another review of the file in 2023 revealed a familial match using the man’s DNA with IGG.
After police secured a DNA warrant, they obtained a sample from the suspect and a match was made. A subsequent arrest came on Feb. 9, 2026.
Leonard Peter Paulencu (65), a resident of Two Hills, was charged with sexual assault with a weapon and break and enter to commit an indictable offense.
He was brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody.
According to court records Paulencu is currently in custody awaiting a bail hearing at the Fort Saskatchewan courthouse on Feb. 19.
IGG first made headlines in 2018 when it was used to solve the famous case of the Golden State Killer, Joseph James DeAngelo. DeAngelo’s
crimes included at least 13 murders and more than 50 rapes spanning 1975 to 1986 in California. He was 72 years old when he was finally arrested and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole in 2020.
Meanwhile, through a press release, Detachment Commander Cpl. Nicholls of Two Hills RCMP said he wants people to know that the police will continue to investigate crimes no matter how long it takes.
“We want to remind the public, especially the victims, that we are always looking to resolve criminal investigations” said Cpl. Nicholls, Detachment Commander of the Two Hills RCMP.
“I know there are other victims out there waiting for this chapter to end and I hope that this will give them hope that resolution is still possible, no matter the time elapsed.”
Another engagement set for Lamont water line
BY JOHN MATHER
Lamont County council discussed hosting another engagement session with the community regarding the water line planned for the County.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Rodney Boyko told council there had been initial community consultations held last fall focussed on people who had concern around the intake site.
He added now they wanted to engage people who may be along a proposed water line site and suggested it be held Feb. 26 at Bruderheim’s Community Centre.
“The information has been mailed out to residents within one and half miles of the pro-
posed pipeline corridor,” he told council Feb. 10.
“We want to be able to engage with residents and find out what their concerns may be. We haven’t made any final decisions yet, but we want to find out what the concerns might be.”
The engagement sessions will be held from 5 to 7 p.m.
Reeve Aaron Wick said he had received some calls from residents wanting to know where the line may be going but he couldn’t answer them because he didn’t have the answers.
“There are people who want to know which side of the road it’s going on. Will it be on the same side as the utility lines?”
Division five
Councillor Neil Woitas who virtually attended the meeting asked when they got the line to Highway 45 what happened then since they didn’t know what industries would be seeking access to the water.
Boyko replied those type of questions are what the consultants and administration hoped to hear from the engagement session so they could develop answers.
Council accepted the information.
Wick added he would be in meetings in Ottawa at the time of the meeting so wouldn’t be able to attend.
BY JOHN MATHER
A month ago, Lamont County council received a presentation from WSP, the consultants on the water intake and waterline project in Division five, in a closed session.
Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky told council Feb. 10, before handing the discussion to his financial officer Rodney Boyko,
“At that session we made an agreed to investigate partnering with a commercial third party, whom we will not name, and now we want to continue this discussion but just refer to a commercial third party and not give out any names.”
Boyko presented the options available to council after having a month to think about the outcomes.
“I’ll walk through some of these options,” said Boyko.
The first was to explore with the commercial third party the possibility of extending their existing raw water infrastructure into the designated industrial zone area in Lamont County.
Option two was to design and build the intake only.
The third option was to design the full system and secure a Public, Private partnership before construction.
The fourth option was to design and build the full project of intake and water pipeline and the fifth option was postpone until guaranteed off-takers (customers for water) were secured.
The financial impacts to the County were presented as Low risk for option 1; medium financial risk for options two and three, and high financial risk for options four and five.
Boyko told council the consultant, WSP, had explored the options and estimated costs and now council had to decided how far to move forward with the project.
He said by entering into a commercial third partner agreement with an organization who may have a water supply
from outside the County would result in lower capital investment for the County which would make it more cost effective and it would send a positive signal to industry, demonstrating water availability and readiness.
“There are potential barriers with Strathcona County and we wouldn’t have ownership of the project.
He added there could be problems with the provincial grants already issued for the County to build an intake.
“The next four options are particular to our project where it is a County owned project.
He said the second option would send a positive signal to industry and there was the $16M grant already designated for the project.
But, Boyko added, an additional $50 million would have to be secured to build out the rest of the system.
He said option three would be to design the full system and secure a three P partner prior to construction.
“It would send a positive signal to industry.”
He said option four would be high risk because the project could stand idle until customers for the water were secured and similar risks existed with option five.
“Administration is recommending option one where we would investigate partnering with a commercial third party with the option with them extending into the industrial zone in conjunction with option three which is to design the full system.”
Division five Councillor Neil Woitas, attending the meeting remotely, interrupted at that point to say the CAO had to speak up since his comments weren’t coming over the County sound system.
Woitas then asked if the grant the three counties had received for water intakes or straw in the river, by the time the County completed all the
studies and consultations would there be any money left for building? He said the County was wasting time and he didn’t understand why the County was “dragging its feet.”
He added there were some high voltage transmission lines being built in the area and Dow had announced it would be reviving its Path2Zero project.
“We could miss the boat,” he said.
Reeve Aaron Wick asked if the County went with option three would they retain more than 50 per cent ownership?
Boyko said they would.
“My thoughts are we go $50 million and ask for our borrowing cap to go up.
“We don’t have an offtaker (customer) yet but I believe we have to get this project off the ground and get the straw in the river.”
“We do need to explore with the CTP to see if we could supply water now. If at sometime, when our water comes in, we could look at supplying water back to the CTP.”
Division three Councillor John Uganecz also felt the County had to move the project forward.
“It’s costing more every day that we drag our feet on it.”
“What is the cost of the engineering,“ asked Division four Councillor Roy Anaka and he was told it is generally estimated to be 10 per cent of the total.
“That would be $1.6 million for the intake and that’s covered by the grant,” said Boyko.
He said Lamont County was ahead of the other
two counties with the grants to put “a straw in the water,” which are Strathcona and Sturgeon. Boyko felt an agreement could be worked out in nine to ten months.
The first option was still promoted by administration but it could be rejected by council.
Wick said his concern was if water was brought in by another municipality and, “we get ours in, is there competition for water in our own backyard.”
He felt you could get into water rate wars and if Lamont had a $50 million loan to pay out that could influence the rates the County charged.
"Are we setting ourselves up for failure?”
Council was told the goal of the system was not to be making money through water rates but making money through additional taxes.
Woitas said the County had worked for five years to get the straws in the river and the provincial grant allowed for three counties to put the straw in the river.
“The longer we wait the less chance we have,” he said.
Wick felt option three was the best route forward and Uganecz agreed.
Wick added the first option could still be considered if option three was pursued.
Administration said the recommendation allowed for both options to be explored.
Woitas wondered what the negotiations to explore the first option would cost and was told it had been estimated at $10,000 or less.
In a recorded vote, council decided the recommended exploring both options with Woitas holding out for option
three alone. The motion passed four votes to one for the recommended motion.
The St Michael Landfill site, St. Michael Regional Solid Waste Commission is a Class II facility that accepts non-hazardous materials.
Every load brought to the landfill site is weighed and directed to the proper disposal area. Household garbage goes to the working face with separate areas for; antifreeze, batteries, concrete, electronic waste, household hazardous waste, metal, plastic fertilizer bottles, oil containers, paints, tires, waste oil, waste oil filters, and wood branches. The working face is compacted daily and covered.
We do not charge for household refuse generated during the routine operations of a family dwelling.
But we want our Lamont County residents to be able to use the landfill safely and in an environmentally sustainable way for years to come so we require proof of residency.
if you are new to the Lamont County Region, please bring a copy of your tax notice, power bill, natural gas or water bill with your municipal or civic address and/or legal description, as the land owners are listed in the computer. This will allow us to make sure people from out of our area aren’t using your landfill as dumping grounds.
Loads coming to the landfill must be tarped and secured Sorry we are not registered to accept these items - therefore they are prohibited We
• Animal Waste • Animal CarcassesDomestic
• Explosives
• Chemical Wastes
• Hazardous Wastes (Outside of Residential Household Hazardous Waste Program)
• Hot Loads
• Human Wastes
• Liquid Wastes
• Radioactive Wastes
• Sealed Drums
• Sewage / Septic Wastes (Lagoon provided)
• Toxic Materials
each
• Roofing materials $40/metric tonne
• Construction & Demolition $40/metric tonne
• Large unsorted loads $80/metric tonne in addition to the above charges
- The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Lamont County residents embrace Olympic spirit
BY GRANT JOHNSON
Residents across Lamont County have been proudly embracing the excitement and unity of the 2026 Winter Olympics, cheering on Canada’s athletes as they compete on the world stage in Milan.
From farmyards and family homes to local schools, the Olympic spirit has brought the community together in celebration of sport, perseverance, and national pride.
The schoolyard became a hub of friendly competition, with students taking part in creative winter-themed events such as snow bowling, ball hockey, snowshoe races, and more.
Divided into eight teams representing countries from around the world, students proudly designed banners and dressed in their team colours, embracing the pageantry and excitement that define the Olympic tradition.
Nowhere was that enthusiasm more visible than at Mundare School, where students hosted their own Winter Games last Friday.
“The kids showed their endurance and determination in each event,” said educator Tammy Seney. “We even had our mascot, the Mundare Dragon, carry the Olympic torch.”
The celebration reflected the strong community spirit that defines Lamont County. The timing was especially meaningful, coming just days before the 61st anniversary of the Canadian flag serving as a reminder of the pride, unity, and shared identity that connect Canadians locally and globally.
Northern lights library updates Town of Lamont on services
BY JANA SEMENIUK
James MacDonald from the Northern Lights Library System came as a delegation to the Town of Lamont Council during their regular meeting on Feb. 10, to present his annual update on library services to the town.
MacDonald said they are one of seven regional library systems in the province, and the NLLS itself oversee 62 communities. Of those 62 communities, approximately 14 have their public libraries housed inside public schools, including the Town of Lamont whose library is inside the Lamont High School.
MacDonald said the library offers many serv-
ices in addition to access to books, including IT support, internet services, website services and programming.
He added that the Town of Lamont circulated 1,600 E books and E audio books, as well as at least 1,600 physical books in 2025.
“That’s pretty good for a community your size,” he said. “Your staff here at Lamont also reached out to us 69 times last year, either for ordering supplies, or help with policy development, etc.”
MacDonald also said the Town of Lamont public library bought 172 books through the system which saved them
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION
INFORMATION ONLY
Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) Approval No. 00356772-00-00 was issued on August 11, 2017, to Terrace Aggregates Ltd. for the construction, operation, and reclamation of a pit in the SE 24-058-19-W4M.
$1,500 in discounts and bulk purchasing. He said the Town pays $9,800 a year to the NLLS in levy costs based on population.
“For every dollar of that $9,800 you invested, you are getting back $22 in value based on these circulation statistics,” said MacDonald.
MacDonald said there are several publications that can be accessed from home with a library card and don’t necessitate a trip to the library.
“For example we added The Athletic, a magazine (for sports). Also transparent language like Duolingo, if you want to learn a new language you can learn it through the transparent language app,” he said.
MacDonald said the NLLS also added a feature called Kanopy that operates like popular online streaming platforms and focuses on documentaries.
“There’s no limits. Watch as much as you can and it’s constantly being refreshed,” he said. “The nice thing is that the library is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week when it comes to its electronic resources. But a library is way more than just its collections. It's community space. It's one of the only places you can go without an expectation of spending money.”
Pursuant to Section 70 (1)(b) of the EPEA, the EPEA Registration No. 00356772-00-00 is no longer required for the above mentioned pit.
In accordance with the EPEA and the regulations, the Director has cancelled EPEA Registation No. 00356772-00-00.
Mundare School children participated in their own Olympics, each representing the flag of a participating country.
This Great Grey Owl posed for a great shot during the early morning hours, East of Elk Island Park on February 1, 2026. Crystal Moren photo.
Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta),
PRICING
$20/wk for the first 35 words
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Calling Local Actors
Needed: 2 males, 3 females
Beaverhill Players upcoming production Sadie Flynn Comes to Big Oak by Norm Foster Auditions Wed. Feb. 25, 2026 at 7pm
Holden Community Hall 4919 49 Ave. Holden, AB Questions? 780-720-5839 beaverhillplayers17@gmail.com
TMC07
Flagstaff Family and Community Services offers Community Wellness Facilitator support: connections, referrals, and prevention services for individuals and families. Call 780-385-3976 for help today in Flagstaff County, confidential and welcoming.
COMING EVENTS
Irma Skating Club presents Irma Hard At Work
Annual Ice Carnival
Sunday, February 22 at 11am
Irma Arena
$2/person, $5/family Raffle table, concession, flowers for sale
The Annual Meeting of the Viking Station Gallery & Arts Centre will be held on Thursday, Feb. 26 at 1 pm at the Station. Everyone welcome. 06/07c
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Viking RCMP Town Hall Meeting Tuesday, February 24 at 6:30pm Viking Carena
We will be discussing successes and challenges from 2025. Our Crime prevention strategies and programs going forward, then open up to general discussion to meet with the residents of Viking & area.
SAVE THE DATES!
Killam Legion Socials first and third Fridays of the month 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. All members and guests welcome! Watch the new Killam Legion Facebook page for updates.
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Online Liquidation Sale
Bidding on now. Ends Feb 24. www.PrairieAuction.com Tools, Tires, Parts, Rims
CLASSIFIEDS
COMING EVENTS
MEIER GUN AUCTION
Saturday, March 7 - 10am
Wetaskiwin - Selling Rifles, Shot Guns, Antique Firearms, Gun Safes, Ammunition, Scopes, Sportsman Equipment. Consign Now! Free Pick-up. Call 780-440-1860; www.meierauction.com
FOR SALE
•Tanaka Pro Force 305 6 inch
Ice Auger, carrying case, manual, and spare plug
•Husquavarna 55 Rancher Chainsaw, 18" bar, spare chain, and case - good condition •GE 24 inch front-load dishwasher (NOS) Model GLD4209L15WW $350 for each item, OBO. Call 780-888-1336
Anyone interested in pots of different sizes, washed and disinfected, call Brian at 780-678-0053 by Jan. 17. These can be picked up at Brian's site location. Six miles west of Daysland off of Highway 13, on Range Road 172. Turn right on RR172, drive 1/4 mile north, Brian's is the second place on the east side of the road. Blue sign at the gate is 45529172. Available are: 22 7-inch pots @ $7 for the lot; 22 8-inch post @ $8 for the lot, 26 10-inch pots @ $8.50 for the lot, 107 4-inch pots @ $5 total (or $4 for a stack of 20). One box of 4 unmatched posts @ $4.50 for the lot, one box of six different sizes @ $4.25 for the lot. 118 2-gallon pots @ $5.75 for the lot, and 186 1-gallon pots at $5.25 for the lot.
Also for sale: Starfrit CherryPitter$21 (New-never used); Starfrit Electric Knife (used once) $30; Vegetable chopper $5; Two black wicker chairs $20 for pair.
*NEW-AB Standswell* Smooth AWN, High Yielding, Grain and Forage Great Lodging Resistance. 1st NITROGEN USE EFFICIENT CEREAL IN CANADA. Attracting Japanese Interest. OTHER BARLEY: Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Durango, CDC Maverick, Esma, Sundre. WHEAT – Pintail, Forage or Grain. OATS – AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, CDC S01 Super Oat. PEAS – Very Early Yellow Peas, Forage Peas. ALSO AVAILABLE: Polish Canola & Spring Triticale. Special pricing on truckloads. www.mastinseeds.com; 403-556-2609.
FOR SALE
Mastercraft Delux Snow Blower 8.5HP 27"
Approx. 200 hours of use
Stored inside year round Asking $600 Ph: 780-218-4715 Don TM05-08P
FOR RENT
SEASONAL CAMPSITES FOR RENT
- located on Muriel Lake, 14Kms south of Bonnyville. - season is May to September with winter storage included.
- $1,000 for no service site. Service sites range from $2,100 to $2,500.
- Gated property with sandy beach, swimming area and access to ATV trails. CONTACT Kevin at (403) 815-9795
HELP WANTED
Custodian
Killam AgriPlex and Arena
Responsibilities:
• Clean and Sanitize areas that are overlooked
• Deep Cleaning
• Dusting, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping
• Clean Vents
• Clean showers and bathrooms
Hours of work are Flexible
Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume to: Chris Kinzer ckinzer@town.killam.ab.ca Phone:780-385-3080 Box 189, 5175-51 Ave Killam, Alberta T0B 2L0
Home Support
Live-in for adult male in wheelchair in Round Hill area. Will train. Wages etc. to be discussed. Send resume to broblin.br@gmail.com or text 604-793-3756. TMP06-09
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
160 Acres Farmland for Sale –Near Andrew, AB
A rare opportunity to acquire cultivated farmland with additional resource value in a desirable agricultural area. This property consists of 160 acres total, made up of two separate 80-acre parcels. 145 acres cultivated, includes gravel reserve on the east portion of the property. Price: $650,000 (GST extra if applicable). Contact 780-907-0144
SERVICES
Scribbly: a whimsical, monthly writing program mailed to your home! Experience new levels of writing skill & joy. Starting at $57 Cdn. Members in 18 countries. www.kimdukewrites.com/Scribbly
INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, 1-866-974-7678 www.integritybuilt.com.
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. Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
Top 10 reasons to advertise in
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.
I like the idea of having an independent news agency in our area, because I don’t want to just be fed propaganda from municipalities, police and school boards just to appease me!
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.
I don’t just advertise with The Leader to make sales but also to fend off competition from other businesses in the area and from other towns and cities in the area too.
I know if I don’t advertise with The Leader, that my event will not be covered when it happens mostly because they don’t know about it, but also because I didn’t support them so why would I expect them to support me.
The Leader is a local business, employing local people, donating to local charities, and involved with local causes. Tech giants do nothing for my family, my neighbours or my community.
The Leader covers all of Lamont County. These are my friends and neighbours and we support one another.
I try to buy all my printing from The Leader, or at least get a quote. They are honest and good to deal with. When I have a problem they look after it for me from printing to advertising.
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!
Family Day
Policing costs keep skyrocketing
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Municipalities in Lamont County are feeling the pinch over huge increases to their policing costs this year.
Those with a population under 5,000 began paying for their policing starting in 2020. They have seen gradual increases to more than 200 percent today in some cases.
The Town of Lamont Chief Administrative Officer Tyler Edworthy brought the issue up to the town council during their Feb. 10 council meeting.
Edworthy, noting that the costs have risen astronomically but did not provide numbers, wanted to use the information for the Town’s ‘Taxes Reimagined’ marketing material for social media and sought council’s permission.
“We've seen a 271% increase since 2020 and wanted to see if council agreed with having that as the local initiative that should be posted,” said Edworthy, adding he wanted to include the policing increase with other information on the Town’s social media
page to show residents where their tax money goes.
“I think this is also a great idea of a little bit of transparency of why taxes go the way they do,” agreed Councillor Lynn Huxley.
A follow-up email to Edworthy with questions around policing amounts for the Town was not responded to by press time.
The Village of Chipman is also experiencing a crunch due to inflated policing costs. Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Keiron Willis brought the estimates to the Jan. 12 meeting and said there will also be future increases.
“The municipalities are paying 19 percent of the frontline policing costs and it will increase to 30 percent by 2030,” she said.
Willis confirmed by email that the Village paid $11,959 last year and expected to pay $16,697 this year.
The Town of Bruderheim have the subject of increased policing costs slated for their Feb. 18 council meeting. According to
information provided in the meeting agenda, Bruderheim will pay an estimated $254,750 by 2030 for their policing.
The cost for 2026 is estimated at $94,895, a 313 percent increase from the first year (2020) where they only paid $23,250.
“It is important to note that the estimate provided is an approximation,” read a notice attached to the agenda information.
“Final amounts payable under the renewed PFM (police funding model) will be based on current data when calculations are completed each March.”
The Town of Mundare Chief Administrative Officer Colin Zyla said the Town paid approximately $43,500 last year and expects to pay $60,066 in 2026. Policing costs for the Village of Andrew were unavailable by press time.
In terms of population, according to the provincial government website, in 2024 Mundare had 858 residents, Chipman 246, Andrew 366, Lamont 1,744 and Bruderheim 1,329.
Mundare to enter mediation with County over fire costs
BY JOHN MATHER
At their Feb 3 council meeting Mundare agreed to enter into a mediation agreement with other Lamont municipalities and Lamont County for a Regional Fire Service project “to address submitted to the Mediation and Cooperative Protocol Grant program .
Under the Lamont County Emergency Services Agreement, the County and municipality can renegotiate fees for services as of July 1, 2026.
“Lamont County has advised us they want to begin renegotiating,” Chief Administrative Officer Colin Zyla told council. “It would have been in 2016 we entered into a new fire agreement with the County.
“Under that agreement the towns were responsi-
ble for the buildings so we pay everything for the firehall … insurance, utilities and all that stuff.
“The County paid for all the operational expenses .. vehicles, training and all that stuff.”
“The County is going to be looking for more money and it’s not going to be a small amount,” said Mayor Rick Patrie.
Zyla further explained there had been a CAO meeting last November where entering into the application for the Mediation Cooperative Protocol Grant was discussed.
“It’s a 50/50 grant and why don’t we pay for 25,000 and split it between the municipalities based on population.
He said the cost to Mundare would be $1,329 and it would be covered by budget.
“I think the mediation would be a good idea because it would prevent arguing amongst one another and claims that the County is bullying the communities and the communities are not there.”
He said all the communities have to sign on and he felt it would be a good thing for council to participate in.
Patrie agreed, saying the other municipalities were in favour of joining the mediation process. Council then approved a motion stating,” it approves the town’s participation in the Lamont County Regional Fire Services project to address the funding model submitted to the Mediation Cooperative Protocol Grant program as presented.” And that was passed.
Families spend time together roasting hotdogs in Chipman for Family Day.
Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Five-year-old Rebecca Dales and her sister Rhe, 9, took part in the open house curling during Family Day in Mundare, Feb 16. While Rebecca still has a way to go mastering the proper throwing technique, Rhe shows she knows how to use a support for when she throws a stone. John Mather photo.
Rosy-cheeked youngsters stay warm with hot chocolate during the Village of Chipman's Family Day event on Feb. 16. Photo: Melissa Martindale
1-1-1
Containing 2 Pasture Quarters and 8 Farmland Quarters Legals are: Section 8-38-12-W4, NW 16-38-12-W4 S ½ 21-38-12-W4, SE 22-38-12-W4 SE 10-38-12-W4, NW 3-38-12-W4
Bids open March 4/2026
BIDS CLOSE 1 PM MARCH 6/2026
From Intersection 872/599 go west 9 miles, go north ½ mile, watch for signs. East side of land starts there.
From Hwy 36/599 go east 6 miles, go north 1 mile, watch for signs. West side of the land starts there.
For more details go to Agthings.com Make sure to register so you’re ready to participate in the bidding. Contact Dallas Ellerby 403-578-8105
FEATURED PROPERTIES
MINBURN COUNTY
• Part of W4-14-51-10-SW County of Minburn 140 acres with 950 sq ft bungalow and treed yard site. Power,gas well and septic tank. # 2 soil with 100 acres cultivated and 35 cultivatable acres in hay. Offer will besubject to subdivision with the country of Minburn. House and yard are currently rented for $1000 per month plus utilities.
Price $1,300,000.00
BEAVER COUNTY
• 2 Property Sale: Property 1: 50301 RR182 1 ½ storey 1,710 sq ft house on 80 acres with Detached double car garage, Heated and insulated 40’ x 50’ shop, 44’ x 52’ wooden barn , Insulated 30’x 40’ detached man cave. 2 - 100’x50’ and 1-120’x50’ cold storage shops , 36’x54’ Machine shed and 2 3-sided pole sheds. 65± acres cultivation. Property 2: W4-18-50-23-SWN ½ 80 acres, 78± acres cultivated 2 soil.
Total price for both parcels $1,225,000
• SOLDW4-18-50-23-SE 160 acres 95± acres of cultivated and 65± acres of pasture. Price: $550,000
• W4-18-50-14-SE N 26.21 acres 16± acres cultivated and 10± acres pasture Price: $68,000
• SOLD W4-18-50-23-NE 160 acres 44± acres cultivated, 36± acres pasture and 80± acres wetlands Price: $300,000
TOWN OF LAMONT
• 5119 48 Ave, 5121 48 Ave, and 5116 47 Ave 3 commercial lots 50' by 100', 65' by 100', and 30' by 100' Price: $200,000
VILLAGE OF ANDREW
• 5317-50 Ave Andrew. An 18,000 sq. ft. manufacturing shop with office and storage space on 2.3 acres of land Price: $1,700,000 ***or inquire about leasing units as small as 4000 sq ft***
Always Looking For New Farm Listings!!
Elk Island U13 Wild won the bronze medal at an Airdrie hockey tournament over the weekend. The team finished the round robin play
which set up a bronze medal game on Monday that they won 10-4, led by Mary Sobkow and Kayden King’s hat tricks. Other scorers were; Sawyer Wytrykush (2g), Jaxon Calder, and Ellie Poirier.
- The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, February 18, 2026
