news this week:
medal at Alberta Winter Games - 2 Doctor for a day at hospital - 6
attempts to censor media - 8 OPINION: By-elections for despicables - 4
Dead calves left along rural roads leave residents disturbed - looking for answers
BY GRANT JOHNSON
Several residents of Lamont County say they have been disturbed after discovering several deceased calves discarded along rural roads in recent weeks, prompting concern and calls for answers.
On multiple occasions, residents have reported finding fully grown dead calves left on the side of range roads, including a recent discovery along Range Road 184.
The incidents have unsettled those living nearby, with many questioning why the animals were left in such visible public locations.
The issue gained attention after local resident Rosie McCaffrey made a post on a community online page. The post quickly drew significant attention, with many commenters describing the situation as deplorable and urging authorities to investigate.
McCaffrey said a Community Peace Officer attended the scene after her
report but that she had not received any follow-up information.
Lamont County Communications Coordinator Jay Zaal confirmed that the county’s Community Peace Officer had been notified about the deceased calves. However, by the time, the officer attended the reported locations, the carcasses were no longer present.
According to the county, proper livestock disposal practices include placing deceased animals at the corner of a field to allow for natural scavenging by wildlife such as coyotes, or burning the carcasses to prevent decomposition and reduce the risk of disease spread.
Many have posted online that they hope the situation brings greater awareness to proper livestock disposal and encourages anyone with information to come forward, as the discoveries have left many concerned about both public health and respect for the rural landscape
Maschmeyer adds silver to her Olympic medal collection
BY JOHN MATHER
Bruderheim’s Emerance Maschmeyer now has an Olympic silver to add to the gold she won four years ago at the Winter Olympics.
Maschmeyer watched from the bench as her Canadian women’s hockey teammates dropped a 2-1 overtime decision to the vaunted U.S. Women’s Olympic team Feb. 19 at the Milano Cortina. Olympics.
The U.S. squad was highly favoured
going into the game but the Canadian women turned up the pressure and kept pace with the younger, faster Americans and held them to a 1-1 draw after 60 minutes.
Canada’s Kristen O’Neil led Canada to an early 1-0 lead when she scored a short handed goal on U.S. goalie Aerin Frankel at :54 seconds of the second period.
Canada carried that lead until the final minutes of the third period.
With Frankel on the U.S. bench for an extra attacker, U.S, forward Hilary Knight deflected a point shot to tie the score which forced overtime.
Playing a three-on-three format in the overtime, Megan Keller scored the winner putting the puck past Ann Renee Desbiens to win the gold medal for the Americans.
Earlier in the day, Switzerland defeated Sweden 2-1 in overtime to win bronze. It’s just the second Olympic
medal Switzerland has won in women’s hockey.
Since women’s hockey became an Olympic sport at Nagano in 1998, the Canadian and American women have met in seven of the eight gold medal games. The clash at Milano Cortina 2026 was the fifth straight Olympic final between the two.
Canada still leads the gold medal finals against the USA with four wins.
Several incidences of dead calves left road-side in Lamont County recently have left residents concerned.
Both U11 and U13 Wild teams win weekend games
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 (13-9-1) won a 10-3 game on Saturday against Viking at Lamont Arena led by Braden Roy’s 4goal 5-point game. Other scorers were; Alex Holt (2g 2a), Dennis Sobkow (2g 1a), Marcus
MacDonell (1g 2a), Enzo Francis Bouzane (1g), Owen Martz (1a), and Bennett Hold (1a). Stratton Robinson made 32 saves for the win.
Elk Island U13 Wild (15-10-0) won a 5-4 game against Lac La Biche on Saturday at Lamont Arena with five different scorers; Kayden King (1g 1a), Christian McLeod (1g 1a), Landen O’Connell, Ellie Poirier, and Alex Holt. Quinn Dickinson picked up an assist. Jake Holt and Carter Graham shared goaltending duties. On Sunday at Lamont Arena, Elk Island dropped a 3-2 game against Lac La Biche.
Mary Sobkow and Kayden King scored. Assists went to; Jaxton Fertuck (2a), Raiden Crough and Christian McLeod.
Fort Sask Wild Rangers dropped a 5-1 game on Friday against SE607 at Terwillagar Rec. Centre. Slade Walsh was the only goal scorer. On Saturday at Jubilee, Wild Rangers skated to a 4-4 tie against SN605 after allowing the tying goal with only 34 seconds remaining. Sawyer Hanson (2g 2a) and Gregory Michaud both scored twice in the contest. Assists went to; Tyson Jonker (2a), Jace Zanatta, and Carter O’Connell.
Suspect identified
BY JANA SEMENIUK
A 52-year-old man has been identified as one of three suspects behind a break and enter east of Bruderheim on Jan. 7.
A warrant has been issued for the arrest of John Ford, resident of Athabasca, for committing break and enter in
addition to being disguised with intent to commit an offence. Ford is suspected of being one of the perpetrators, captured in security footage along with two other males. All three were wearing white overalls and black ski masks and broke into
GOLD MEDAL WINNER
Celia Cossey was part of the Alberta Winter Games gold medal winning Sherwood Park Monarchs U13AA hockey team, pictured here after the win with brother Zenon, dad Tom, and mom Tess. The squad won gold over the weekend, scoring the winner with 1:34 remaining to break a tie game.
Job Description
Summer Student Labourer Positions
This posting is for multiple full-time, temporary, seasonal positions for 16 weeks in duration. Positions have a start date of May 1, 2026.
These positions are responsible for carrying out and completing tasks assigned to them by the Public Works and Parks & Recreation departments during the summer season and will contribute to the maintenance and improvement of public areas, parks, roadways and equipment.
Responsibilities
Safely perform manual tasks and general labour in all operations and follow safety guidelines and procedures on the worksite.
Operate small power tools and manual hand tools and equipment (mowers, drills, shovels, rakes, screwdrivers, etc).
Participate in a variety of tasks which may include but are not limited to; road maintenance, tree trimming, grass cutting, weed control, painting, routine cleanup duties, and general labour activities. Operate trucks, trailers and small equipment.
Must be able to perform a variety of tasks, outdoor and indoor work, as assigned on a day-to-day basis.
Skills and Abilities
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to adapt to new and changing conditions.
Ability to follow written and verbal directions and to maintain concentration and alertness.
Qualifications & Conditions of Employment
Valid Alberta Class 5 Drivers license and submission of a Driver’s Abstract. Must be in good physical health with the ability to work outdoors regardless of weather and must be able to continuously use hand tools and lift heavy objects.
CSA Steel-toed boots.
Criminal record check.
Current First Aid certification would be considered an asset.
Ability and willingness to perform duties in inclement and adverse or varied weather conditions for an extended amount of time.
Experience operating small equipment, hand, and power tools.
The wages for these positions will start from $20.00 per hour.
a rural business before attempting to steal several items.
The RCMP would like to thank the public and media for their assistance. No updates were provided on the fate of the remaining two suspects.
Successful candidates must be available to work flexible hours including overtime as required and must be attending or returning to post-secondary school in the fall.
Please forward your resume by March 13, 2026, to:
Email: general@lamont.ca
Attention: Community Development Coordinator
Town of Lamont, Box 330 Lamont, Alberta T0B 2R0
The Town of Lamont thanks all applicants for their interest, however, only those chosen for an interview will be
Bruderheim fire station opens doors to the public
Winter fun at Fire Dept open house
BY MELISSA
MACINTOSH-YOUNG
Residents bundled up and headed outdoors for an afternoon of winter fun as the Bruderheim Fire Department welcomed the community to its Open House, paired with family skating at the town’s outdoor rink (ODR).
Residents were invited to stop by the fire hall to meet local firefighters, tour the trucks, and learn more about fire safety and emergency response in the community.
Children had the chance to climb aboard the fire engines, try on gear, play games and chat with the firefighters who proudly protect and serve Bruderheim year-round.
Captain Coreen Hosack
said the department was thrilled with the strong community support.
“We had a wonderful turnout,” Hosack stated.
“We want to be involved with the community and give residents a chance to connect with us outside of emergency situations.”
The week’s cold temperatures allowed the ODR to reopen just in time. Families laced up their skates and took to the ice, enjoying free public skating under crisp winter skies.
Bruderheim councillors also fired up the barbecue and served complimentary hotdogs and hot chocolate to attendees.
The warm food and firepit were a welcome treat for skaters and visi-
BY JANA SEMENIUK
The Bruderheim fire station, also known as Lamont County Emergency Services station 2, held an open house Feb. 21, complete with hotdogs, firefighter suits for the kids in addition to games and awards.
The station’s lieutenant and chaplain, pastor Jeff Dul, said the open house was a perfect opportunity to connect with the community and have some fun.
“The open house was a (great way) to get people back here to say here’s who we are and what we’re doing. We had little kids doing stuff, (and) CPR demonstrations too,” he said. “(We ask)
what can we do that helps people more and how can we give back?”
Children’s activities included the kids donning small fire suits and battling their way through a scaled down obstacle course which ended with them using a garden hose and nozzle to blast a plastic fire hat from the top of a pylon.
“It’s imitating actual skills we need (such as) pulling hoses, spraying water and pulling people from (dangerous situations),” said Dul. “The one thing is there’s a great bunch of camaraderie. It’s a big family here.”
Dul said the Bruderheim Fire department currently has 13
members and are looking to recruit more. He said they have a Junior fire department where anyone 16-18 years old can join and see what it takes to be a fire fighter.
“For two years they can train with us. They don’t get to respond to calls, but they get the full training just as if they were anybody else,” said Dul. “We actually have a number of (firefighters) who started off as juniors here and are regular firefighters now.”
Dul said anyone interested in joining either the junior firefighters or the regular fire fighting team can contact the Bruderheim fire station or simply drop in to inquire.
A Bruderheim Fire Fighter cheers on the efforts of a young firefighter in training at the fire station's open house on Feb. 21. Jana Semeniuk photo.
tors looking to take the edge off the chilly temperatures.
Members of the Bruderheim Fire Department stop for a group photo during Station 2 Open House- Photo by Melissa MacIntosh-Young
Bruderheim Counsellors Dayna Jacobs, Arlie Young, Luis Diaz and Lester Quiajno-Acosta take a break from BBQ duties to warm up by the fire.
Opinion
By-elections should be automatic following
floor crossings
BY JOHN MATHER
For several years there has been a movie franchise “Despicable Me” featuring a nasty supervillan and minions.
Minions are those little critters that look like oversized tic tacs and are coloured bright yellow.
After the past few months, although it has been a political pastime for years, I think floor crossing in politics could be put into a file labeled “Despicable Me.”
Now what brings this up for me is the slimy defection of Edmonton Riverbend MP Matt Jeneroux from the Federal Conservatives to the Federal Liberals.
Just before Christmas it was Nova Scotia MP Chris d’Entremont and Toronto area MP Michael Ma who also fell into the “Despicable Me” file by proving that they are generally liars and don’t have any respect for the voters that elected them.
But this week Jeneroux really takes the cake for becoming a supervillan in a minion role.
Just last spring running for the federal Conservatives Jeneroux won the riding with 30,343 votes or 50.3 per cent of voter turnout.
The Liberals finished second with their candidate getting 27,075 votes or 44.8 per cent. The NDP and Peoples Party of Canada trailed with single digit or less percentages.
But the point here is Jeneroux was elected by Conservatives to be a Conservative member of parliament.
That is what he campaigned on.
So suddenly last fall when the other two “Despicable Me” floor crossers made their move, Jeneroux was rumoured to be joining them.
But no, he publicly stated. He would be resigning his seat to “spend more time with his family.”
Fine, he didn’t want to be a Conservative anymore. He didn’t even want to be an MP. He would quit.
CONTINUED
But suddenly last week, Jeneroux renounced his resignation and states he’ll join the Liberals.
Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomes “Despicable Me” with open arms. After all, his Liberal supervillans, those unelected backroom planners and schemers, want as many minions whether yellow or otherwise to try and form an unelected majority government.
Having lost two MPs to resignation and one other from a court ruling disqualifying the election result, his seat count was decreasing even after the other “Despicable Mes” did their floor crossing before Christmas.
Jeneroux would boost those numbers.
So Carney reached out with 30 pieces of silver wrapped up - in a fancy title of “special advisor on economic and security partnerships.”
In other words, still a backbencher with a fancy title.
So how do his constituents feel about this?
Were they given the choice?
No. They voted for a Conservative.
Jeneroux shows the slimy side of a political figure. Once the vote is counted, the voters really don’t matter. It’s all about the MP and his pay package.
Jeneroux proved to those who respected him – voted for him – that he is all about money, with no ethics or morals to those who actually provided him with a job.
The same happened in the other two ridings prior to Christmas. Voters found out just how much loyalty to them their MP had.
those other eight Wildrose MLAs who abandoned ship in 2014 to join the failing Progressive Conservatives in the Alberta legislature.
It ultimately knocked Smith out of politics but she made a remarkable comeback and now leads the UCP party as our Premier.
But back then as now, there should have been a by-election to replace those who disowned their constituents for personal motives.
Since Canada formed in 1867, 127 MPs have crossed the floor to opposing parties disavowing the results of the electorate.
Several times there have been calls to make by-elections mandatory but these fail because all sides will try to persuade floor crossing when they feel it helps their party.
Now in Fort Saskatchewan Vegreville former MLA Jacquie Fenske took to Facebook to congratulate Jeneroux on his floor crossing.
She served in the provincial Legislature with Jeneroux from 2012 to 2015 so she knows him.
I wonder if she would treat her constituents the same way if she was to be re-elected? She is currently organizing for the fledgling Tory Party of Alberta, trying to rise from the ashes of the defunct Alberta Party.
I can appreciate politicians growing disenfranchised by the party they represented and moving on to another which they find more palatable, but they owe it to the voter to have a by-election if they want to change parties.
Fine. At least it would leave a choice for voters of Edmonton Riverbend. They could vote for a new MP. The riding historically votes Conservative following the trend in much of Alberta, but a by-election would allow them to choose between Conservative, Liberal, NDP, or any other party that might crawl onto the ballot.
Now, I can’t tarnish all MPs with this brush. I know many who wouldn’t dream of abandoning the people that elected them or the party they stand for.
They have ethics and scruples.
And in reality you can include our Premier Danielle Smith in the “Despicable Me” category along with
We want to believe in our politicians but when they floor cross and others support them in that “Despicable” move it’s hard to have faith as a voter.
This “Despicable” action should always be immediately followed by an automatic by-election.
In a democracy we’re supposed to let the voters decide!
Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter
Jana Semeniuk Reporter
BY HAZEL ANAKA
This may be a round-up week; a pulling together of disparate thoughts, themes, tidbits. Let’s go. Number one. Is it not a travesty that Canada ended up with the silver medal in men’s hockey at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics? I walked out of the room as soon as the US scored because I couldn’t bear to listen to the analysis or the interviews or anything else. So, this take comes out of my own little head. Canada outplayed the other guys and deserved to win. The breaks did not go their way. The ‘double doink’ of the puck hitting both posts of the net and still stubbornly refusing to go in is a case in point. Or that other heartbreaker that nearly trickled under the goalie’s stick. The Canucks outshot the States by nearly double. They outworked them for sure. The refereeing
FROM WHERE I SIT: A Productive One
was suspect. The Canadian player got 2 two-minute minors for high sticking; the American got 2 minutes total for the same infraction. The US team (for a second time apparently) had too many men on the ice and that went uncalled. Like many of you I expected Canada to bring home the gold for Sid the Kid who was injured and pulled himself out of the game because he knew he wasn’t up to par.
This was the one and only bit of Olympic coverage I watched. It was brutal waking up that early but I did it because of the whole national pride thing. We badly needed a win over the US and a reason to celebrate because of everything else that’s going on. It was not to be.
Do you remember how ashamed of and angry we all were at Gretzky’s behaviour at the Four Nations Cup when he forgot he’s Canadian and essentially shunned our players? Shame on you, Wayne. He got skewered in the press and poor Janet was so upset by how he was treated. Our boy must have learned a lesson. There he was wearing a maple leaf on his lapel and doing interviews about how great the Canadian team is. Hell, yah.
This coming week will mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It is catastrophic and with no end in sight. But at least ICE forces are keeping the streets of Minneapolis safe from immigrants, right? Not so much from their own national gov-
ernment and its agencies though. The midterm elections can’t come soon enough for me.
Also, this week, Pierre Poilievre is planning a keynote address and fireside chat called A Vision for Canada-US Relations for the Economic Club of Canada. His tone and demeanour are softening---probably not quickly enough for most Canadians’ liking. He definitely needs a soulsearching look at his relationship with his caucus if he hopes to stem the flow of floor crossers. Three in just a few weeks begins to seem like a pattern. Most Canadians, including me are willing to give Carney a chance to make some substantive changes. But, Mark, the clock is ticking. Admittedly, the timeline
to make the wholesale changes he purports to want will require years to accomplish. However, most of us started counting from the time his predecessor was elected. It’s been 10 years plus the ten or eleven months since Carney took the controls. Talk about a lost decade.
If you’ve been feeling brutalized by this winter, you’re not alone. The warm stretch, winter rain, deadly ice, cold snap, huge snowfall; it’s enough to make one dizzy careening from one extreme to the other.
And we know that March always has something up her sleeve, as surely as the sun rises in the east. But, the way time flies, before long we’ll be congratulating ourselves on surviving another winter. Yay!
There are a couple of things I’ve already learned even before my intensive (Adobe Illustrator) course begins that are worth sharing. They are transferable thoughts and behaviours that anyone can adopt and apply to anything. First, anyone can summon 10 seconds of courage; it’s long enough to take that first step. And secondly, the way to build momentum for whatever we’re doing is to work at “One Thing a Day.” For the purposes of our tracker, anything we do for even as little as fifteen minutes a day counts. Of course, many days are much longer. But it builds a habit and a practice and prevents the inevitable ‘drop off’ when something we start ends up being harder than we thought. May your week be a productive one, from where I sit.
From the files of the Lamont Leader
Lamont and Area
Thursdays at 8:00 pm
Sept. 9, 2015 issue of the Lamont Leader: Dignitaries, members and past members gathered over the weekend for the 100th anniversary of the Bruderheim Fire Dept.
Youngsters enthusiastic about doctor for a day
JANA SEMENIUK
Sixteen grade one students from the Lamont Elementary School got a chance to experience the Lamont Health Care Centre in a positive way on Feb. 23, when they took part in the local RhPap (rural health physician’s action plan) program’s Doctor for a Day.
The program had goals which included showing children the hospital is not a scary place, according to board member Linda Mills.
“Our goal was to introduce the children to the hospital that was in their community for future (career) reference, but mostly to make it so that those children would never be afraid to go into a hospital, whether it is as a patient or visiting grandma and grandpa, that it wasn't a scary place to go,” she said.
When the children arrived, they first donned small white “doctor” coats in addition to a nametag before making their way to Dr. Claudio Iordache’s office where several pieces of medical equipment were kept.
Dr. Iordache smiled as the kids sat on the examination table, had their blood pressure taken and took turns getting weighed on the big scale, all the while he fielded questions from the inquisitive group.
“Why are you a doctor?” asked one child.
Dr. Iordache said he likes to help people when they are suffering in addition to enjoying the independence a medical career can bring.
Lamont Elementary School Assistant Principal Leslie Pavan said she felt the program was a great way to introduce kids to the hospital environment and possibly inspire a career.
“I think it's a good thing because it exposes them to opportunities. (It) might inspire them to want to someday become a doctor or nurse or a lab tech,” she said.
“They are so enthusiastic and curious, and it brings a positive light to the hospital, where, before, they might (have) associated the hospital with something negative.”
Meanwhile, Mills said the program was first inspired by another similar program she heard of in another municipality while at an RhPAP conference.
“I had noticed that one of the doctors had done a program called doctor for the day, but his was just in the doctor's office. And I just thought, wow, we've got a (whole) hospital to do that in,” she said.
The kids were shown the emergency room, a day room where they interacted with seniors in the long-term care centre and saw a team of paramedics who arrived at the hospital and took time to answer their questions.
Mills said overall the afternoon was a big success.
“(When) we headed back to get their coats on, I watched them go down the line,” said Mills.
“Somebody said to me, don't they look happy? And I said, I bet not one of those (kids) is going to be frightened to come to a hospital (in the future).”
Above: Dr. Iordache proudly shows the large scale in his office to 16 visiting grade one students during the RhPAP program's Doctor for Day on Feb. 23 at the Lamont Health Care Centre. Left: A young child smiles watching the numbers move while trying out the blood pressure machine.
Opening day for new monument business in Lamont
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Lamont resident Tom Hrehorets has opened a new business with his wife Gail after retiring from his family owned Hrehorets Bus Lines in 2020 and selling his catering business last year.
The Hrehorets’ new business, Peaceful Meadow Monuments had their opening day at his former bus building in Lamont on Feb. 23.
Hrehorets said he has always had an interest in monuments, as a selfproclaimed “cemetery walker”.
“I like to stop at cemeteries and walk through and look there. Every cemetery has a story,” he said.
“I just find it so peaceful, relaxing and quiet. I know all the cemeteries in the area (and) I don’t think there is one I haven’t walked through.”
Hrehorets said when he helped to fundraise for a monument in 2021 honouring the 17 victims from the 1960 bus train accident in Lamont, he was hooked.
“That’s actually where it all started with the monuments, to be honest,” he said. “It’s because when I was dealing with the (monument) companies, I found it very interesting. How they did things, the installations and all. That’s where it started.”
Hrehorets has created a showroom out of a finished bay in his garage.
Inside are several beautiful, polished stone monuments on matching bases, different sizes, shapes and colours along with a variety of stone vases arranged in lit up shelving.
Hrehorets said he feels so strongly about the fin-
ished products, he has photos taken of each finished one and intends to keep them in an album.
“For what I’ve (done) already, I take a picture of every monument that is done and installed,” said Hrehorets. “I will create an album so people can see (that) we’ve done these already for this family or that family.”
Hrehorets said he felt having the showroom was important so people can see the monuments in person and touch them.
“Funeral homes have contacts for monuments, but here you can actually see it and touch it,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hrehorets said he has already fulfilled his passions for cooking and school buses and hopes to continue with his passion for monuments as long as he
can. “This is what I’ll do as long as the good Lord
let’s me do it,” he said. “We get the best price and will give people the
best deal for a monument.”
MONUMENTAL OPENING
Tom and Gail Hrehorets stand next to one of the beautiful polished stone monuments in their showroom at their new business Peaceful Meadow Monuments on opening day in Lamont on Feb. 23.
8 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Guest Letter: Censorship attempts in local governments a reality
LISA SYGUTEK
President Alberta Weekly Newspapers Assoc.
Crowsnest Pass council is set to introduce a proposed media policy at its next meeting.
When outlining the need, Mayor Pat Rypien said it would “protect Council’s reputation, administration, support transparency, and build public trust.” She also stated media have a responsibility to be fair, accurate and to “inform rather than influence.”
Before policy, let’s be clear about principle.
Newspapers are not accessories to democracy. They are pillars of it.
A functioning democracy depends on an informed public. An
informed public depends on independent journalism.
Local newspapers report how elected officials vote, document what is said in open meetings, provide context for decisions and give residents a platform to raise concerns.
That is not interference. It is democratic infrastructure.
This work is not always comfortable.
Criticism is not inaccuracy. Hurt feelings are not misinformation.
Public disagreement is not reputational damage.
When an editorial challenges a decision, that is not an attack on governance. It is democratic discourse.
If there are examples of
inaccurate reporting, they should be identified specifically and publicly. General references to “protecting reputation” are not evidence.
Once someone seeks and accepts public office, they accept public scrutiny.
Elected officials govern. They debate. They legislate.
The press reports.
The press questions.
The press examines.
Roles are separate by design.
Municipalities may establish internal communication protocols. What they cannot do is regulate independent media or attempt to shape how journalism is framed.
When governments
begin defining how coverage should “feel,” it raises legitimate concerns about censorship. Freedom of the press in Canada is protected under Section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
That protection does not depend on whether coverage is flattering. It does not disappear when reporting becomes uncomfortable.
The suggestion that media must “inform rather than influence” misunderstands democracy itself.
Information informs citizens. Informed citizens form opinions. Opinions shape public debate. That is self government working as intended.
Chipman Players set to stage next production
BY JOHN MATHER
Since early January the members of the Chipman Players have been testing, rehearsing, and preparing to present their newest performance, The Last Gladiator, to their faithful followers. And March 7 will mark the first performance when the group kicks of their limited run at the National Hall in Chipman with a gala performance beginning at 7:30 p.m
According to club president Keiron Willis the play revolves around an ancient Roman city where the emperor and his armies are away at war and the women of the empire are busily creating fundraisers to gather additional funding support for the warriors.
“This happens as peasants ransack the marketplace forcing the women into action,” said Willis. “And there is a princess searching for a husband. But if she can’t find a suitable match her father will put her into an arranged marriage.”
From there the fun begins because the princess is a headstrong individual with her own ideas and the remaining senators in the empire
are all trying to woo her and win her in various ways.
This is the first production the players have performed written by Martin A. Follose and performed with permission of the Pioneer Drama Company.
There are 16 cast members taking part in this year's production, a two act play.
“Usually on our gala night we encourage people to dress up in their nicest outfits and come and enjoy the show,” Willis said. “In the last couple of years it has been getting more attention and last year we had one person show up in a three-piece suit, almost formal attire,” she said.
“We want people to experience the red carpet treatment and of course before and after the performance the cast does come out and mingle with our audience.
The evening has the doors open at 5:30 and a special Ukrainian dinner is served by Tom’s Catering beginning at 6 p.m.
Willis said tickets are now limited.
“Our March 15 matinee at 2:30 is sold out,” she said. The doors for the two matinees open at
12:30 with dinner at 1 p.m.
Other performances are, in addition to March 7, March 8 with a matinee performance with doors opening at 12:30, dinner at 1 p.m. and the performance at 2:00 p.m.
There is also a second evening performance on March 14 with doors opening at 5:30 with dinner at 6 p.m. and a 7:30 performance.
As always with the Chipman Players productions there will be
lots of ad libbing from the cast which will lead to a highly entertaining performance.
Each show is a little different from the previous one.
Tickets are $50 and available from Lamont Home Hardware, Stawnichy’s Sausage in Mundare and the Chipman Market.
“We guarantee it will be funny,” adds Willis.
This is the 15th production the Players have put on.
For 97 years, the Pass Herald has reported on this community. I have done this work for 27 of those years.
I am also a plaintiff in a $4 billion class action lawsuit against Google because I believe freedom of the press and the survival of independent media matter.
I do not back down when freedom of the press is at stake.
No credible newspaper seeks conflict with council. Our duty is not opposition. It is accountability through factual reporting. Democracy is not strengthened by insulating reputation from scrutiny. It is strengthened by transparency and accountability.
Policies that appear to limit, manage or pressure independent reporting do not build public trust. They risk creating the perception of censorship. And in a democracy, even the smell of censorship should concern us all.
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
Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta),
BY JANA SEMENIUK
The Town of Bruderheim received a letter from Staff Sgt. Scott Lande of the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP detachment outlining a Community Priorities Plan to address safety concerns.
The letter was met with skepticism and scorn by Deputy Mayor Dayna Jacobs at the Feb. 18 council meeting.
Interim Chief Administrative Officer Dennis Tomuschat said the letter described changes to how the RCMP intend to track policing priorities in the community with a threestep process.
The process includes collecting safety concerns, engaging community representatives and finalizing priorities.
“It aims to ensure that policing objectives are directly informed by municipal and indigenous leaders rather than top town mandates,” said Tomuschat. “The goal is to create achievable clear priorities that reflect local realities.”
Deputy Mayor Jacobs said the three-step process was unnecessary.
“I personally don't think that we need to waste anyone's time breaking down something that's so obvious. We've been told repeatedly that the issues are known and that changes are needed,” she said.
“The reality is simple, show up when you're called and patrol the community when it actually matters most. Stuff happens late at night, not between 3 and 5 p.m.”
Jacobs added that she felt the changes were meant to justify exorbitant policing costs to the community.
“(Its so) we feel that (if) they are going to be charging municipalities at least they are doing something. That’s what our money is going towards. It’s just a buffer to distract us,” she said.
“It’s ridiculous.”
Alarm bells went off across Lamont County with the huge increase to policing costs this year for each municipality since 2020. The town of Bruderheim went from $23,250 to $94,895 for 2026, over 300 percent.
Arthur Green, Press Secretary for Minister of Public Safety and
Emergency Services, Mike Ellis, confirmed by email that the increases were initiated by the RCMP and the federal government.
“Alberta’s government is not increasing the cost of policing. The core issue is that the actual cost of the contract provided by the federal government and the RCMP has surged by 57 percent,” said Ellis. “This massive spike is driven by federal decisions that are completely outside provincial control.”
option- that choice should be available to them.”
Meanwhile, the Bruderheim town council voted to accept the RCMP Community Priorities Plan as information.
Green added that the province established the Alberta Sheriffs Police Service to “augment and support law enforcement in the province”.
“We will continue working with rural municipalities to help offset rising police costs,” said Green. “If municipalities want to continue with their current police of jurisdiction, they can. But if they want to explore another
ANNOUNCEMENTS
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.
CARD OF THANKS
The Streich Family would like to thank every one who supported the family during this time. Thanks for the flowers, text messages, phone calls, and food brought to the house. Also to the Forestburg ladies that provided lunch after the funeral.
A huge thanks to Fee & Sons for your thoughtfulness and guidance during this time, and also a huge thank you to Susan MacKinnon.
Linda Jason, Lisa & boys Rob & Jana Kole & Shalane Phoenix Streich
We, the family of Margaret Congdon would like to express our gratitude and thanks to the Viking Extendicare staff, Dr. Marna Hagen and Dr. Manie Potgieter for the amazing care our mother/grandmother/great-grandmother/great great-grandmother received over the years. Also to Rose Mae Kjelland and staff at the Viking Funeral Home.
And on her 100th Birthday she was layed to rest with a celebration performed by Pastor Steven TeVelde with pianonist Ruth Wallner and Jeff Bird live streaming for those unable to attend. Lunch provided by Food with Flair made it a true blessing for us all, thanks to all who shared with us.
February 27, marks twenty one years since (dad) Don Congdon passed and we rest knowing they are together again in a place they lived their lives in honor of.
Thanks again from Les,Donna and families, Marvin, Susan and families and Phyllis, Cliff and families.
CLASSIFIEDS
FOR RENT
House for Rent or Sale in Viking.
3 Bedroom, 2.5 baths. No smoking or pets. Available immediately. Call 780-385-0626.
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
FOR SALE
If anybody is interested in any CD's, mostly country, Brian has some for sale (72 in total.) May purchase individually at $2/ea, or the entire lot. If interested, call 780-678-0053 for pickup, head six miles west of Daysland on Highway 13, turn right at RR172 for 1.25 miles, at blue sign 45529172. 08/09c ————————————————
•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
*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
HELP WANTED
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
Hardisty Lakeview Golf Course is looking for a hands-on Clubhouse Manager to run daily clubhouse operations, manage staff, handle basic accounting, and coordinate tournaments and events.
• Staff supervision
• Memberships & rentals
• Daily cash balancing & inventory & Kitchen & clubhouse oversight
• Social media posts & event promotion
Start Date is mid April 2026. Deadline for Applications is March 30, 2026. If you're organized, dependable, and enjoy a fun golf club environment, we'd love to hear from you!
Apply with your resume or message us for details to info@hardistygolf.ca 08/11c
Hardisty Lakeview Golf Course is looking for a Greenskeeper to run daily maintenance operations for our 9 hole community golf course in Hardisty, AB
• Staff supervision
• Daily maintenance of the golf course
•Daily maintenance of the golf course campground
• Coordinate projects
Start Date is mid April 2026. Deadline for Applications is March 30, 2026
If you're organized, dependable, and enjoy a fun golf club environment. we'd love to hear from you!
Apply with your resume or message us for details to info@hardistygolf.ca
One year has passed since you left us but you will be forever in our hearts. Love, Dad, Janelle, Family & Friends
ONE OF A KIND BUSINESS FOR SALE.
Owner-Operated/ High Cash Flow/ Limited Workdays! Serving rural AB, SK and BC. 1smalltownalberta.com.
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
Bruderheim District Chief retires after more than two decades of service
GRANT JOHNSON
Lamont County Emergency Services (LCES) is recognizing the retirement of District Chief Alan Klassen after more than 24 years of dedicated service to the community and surrounding region.
Klassen began his career as a firefighter and
steadily advanced through the ranks, ultimately serving as District Chief at Station 2 in Bruderheim. Over the course of his career, he became known for his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to protecting residents throughout Lamont County.
In recognition of his outstanding service, Klassen was awarded the Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal in 2023 by the Governor General of Canada. The honour is presented to firefighters who have completed at least 20 years of exemplary service, including
significant time performing duties involving real risk.
The medal acknowledged Klassen’s long term dedication to fire and emergency response, as well as his continued efforts to ensure public safety.
Klassen’s retirement was marked with a cere-
mony held at Station 2 in Bruderheim, where colleagues and friends gathered to celebrate his career and contributions.
During the event, he was presented with awards and recognition from Regional Fire Chief Bo Moore, Deputy Regional Fire Chief Scott Calder, and Station 2
Captain Correen Hosack. Klassen leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and dedication that has helped strengthen emergency response in the region. His contributions have had a lasting impact on Lamont County Emergency Services and the communities it serves.
Left to Right: Regional Fire Chief Bo Moore, District Chief Alan Klassen, Deputy Regional Fire Chief Scott Calder
Left to Right: Station 2 Captain Correen Hosack, Station 2 Lieutenant Paul Belcourt, District Chief Alan Klassen, Station 2 Lieutenant Jeff Dul
BABY OF 2025 WINNER
Olivia Lori Burk, the winner of the Babies of 2025 Photo Contest, braved the cold weather to come visit The Lamont Leader office with mom Rebecca, and dad D'Arcy. The young family posed for a wonderful picture with the gifts donated from sponsoring businesses; The Nest (gift bag), Lamont Value Drug Mart (gift basket), and The Lamont Leader (laminated keepsake and gift card). This contest is hosted annually by The Leader, where residents are invited to submit their favourite photo of their baby born in the past year. The winning photo is chosen by random draw.
Industrial Heartland Career Forum to be held March 9
BY JOHN MATHER
Fort Saskatchewan’s Dow Centennial Centre will host high school students from around the region and individuals seeking a new career as the second annual Industrial Heartland Career Forum takes place March 9.
The Industrial Heartland Career Forum is not a job fair; it is a hands-on opportunity for individuals to understand the pathways, skills, and resources required to pursue rewarding careers in the world’s highest-performing industrial cluster for the chemicals and energy sectors.
Last year, hundreds of participants connected
with in-demand industrial career opportunities, highlighting the region’s need for skilled workers in trades and industrial sectors.
This year, the forum will focus on up skilling and career transitions, providing attendees with insights into emerging industry trends and high-demand roles; guidance on training programs and credentialing pathways; strategies for career transitions and skill enhancement; networking opportunities with employers and industry leaders; and, access to the exhibition area and career resources
The 2025 forum was recognized with the Minister’s Award for
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
Municipal and Public Library Excellence in the Partnership Category, honouring collaboration between the City of Fort Saskatchewan, Lamont County, Strathcona County, Sturgeon County, and Alberta’s Industrial Heartland Association.
The forum will be held from 3 p.m to 7 p.m. There is no admission fee but people attending must pre-register at industrialcareerforum.ca.
In addition to the support from the regional municipalities, the forum is also supported by the Provincial Ministry of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration.
• 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!!
Lauren Hill Kelly Dick
Norman Hill
Steven Hill
The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, February 25, 2026
