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Vol. 21, No. 15, Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Huge donation for the Lamont Curling Club’s new ice plant BY JANA SEMENIUK Lamont Richardson Pioneer representatives Jason Wytrykush and Doug Oscar presented the Lamont Curling Club (LCC) with a $50,000 cheque at its Farmer’s Bonspiel on Jan. 10 to help fundraise the club’s new ice plant. Oscar spoke to the crowd about their organization’s large donation. “The Richardson family each year gives a portion of their proceeds away to charitable organizations, and this (fundraiser) fit the bill very well,” he said. “It's good for the community, for the county, so we're happy to be able to do this.” LCC member Tim Bartz said the donation put the club at $106,000 of their $150,000 goal. Meanwhile, fellow
LCC member Gerald Maschmeyer thanked Richardson Pioneer and
expressed gratitude for the donation. “Thanks boys from Pioneer, that’s
A cheque for $50,000 is presented to the Lamont Curling Club by representatives from Richardson Pioneer on Jan. 10. L-R: Doug Oscar, Gerald Maschmeyer, Bob Starko, Tim Bartz and Jason Wytrykush. Photo: Jana Semeniuk
really awesome,” he said. Prior to the donation presentation, Bartz shared how important he felt the curling club is to the town of Lamont. “The curling club had a catastrophic loss when we lost our (ice) plant last spring. Without the curling club, Lamont would really be in tough shape as far as socializing and getting out and enjoying curling,” he said. “We have to give the Town of Lamont a lot of credit. They gave $600,000 and the curling club decided to try and help the situation and raise $150,000 ourselves to contribute. “To all the sponsors who have dished out money, thank you very much. It’s all appreciated.”
St. Michael’s Malanka celebration brings in the Ukrainian New Year BY JANA SEMENIUK Malanka, a Ukrainian New Year’s event celebrated every year at St. Michael hall since 1985, did not disappoint on Jan. 10 with a colorful evening full of music, dancing and traditional Ukrainian foods. Local Ironwood Catering took charge of the menu featuring items such as headcheese, Kutia (sweetened cooked wheat), Pyrizhky (small cottage cheese filled buns) in creamy dill sauce, Paska (traditional Ukrainian bread), a chicken dish, mashed potatoes, Nachynka (baked cornmeal dish), Kubasa, cheese and a variety of desserts. Entertaining the crowd were young dancers with the Veselka Ukrainian dance troup in addition to the Starlight Band. Featured in the band are Michael Hrycyk on the accordion, his grandson Wyatt, 18, on bass, family friend Larry Bucholz on guitar and vocals in addition to Lisa Gould on violin. The group rocked the little hall with a variety of traditional Ukrainian hits
and classic rock music. Gould also led the Malanka Cast parade with her violin; the cast comprised of 14 volunteers dressed in costumes that tell the folk story of Malanka, daughter of a God, who was rescued from the devil by her brother. The story is told of chasing away evil, bringing good fortune and celebrating new life. Organizer Mae Adamyk said at least 185 people came out for Malanka this year. She said a host and hostess, young Theo and Tessa Nemirsky, greet-
ed attendees as they came through the door and taught them how to say Happy New Year in Ukrainian. “(It’s nice) to have children getting involved,” said Adamyk. “They did a good job.” In an interview with the Lamont Leader, Adamyk said people from different cultures sometimes have more in common than they think. To illustrate her point, Adamyk told the story of a neighbour she had while living many years ago in Toronto, who was Egyptian. Instead of giving each other
Dancers take a bow after their Ukrainian dance performance. Jana Semeniuk photo.
gifts for Christmas one year, Adamyk suggested making each other one of their own culturally traditional Christmas dishes. “I made Kutya with honey and poppyseed, chopped up apple, cherries and pecans. I covered the bowl,” said Adamyk. “She came over and brought her dish and I said ‘Look what I gave you’.” Adamyk said she was horrified to see her neighbour recoil and gasp. “I thought, is there a cockroach or something?” said Adamyk laughing. “She said ‘Look what I gave you’…it was the same thing.” Meanwhile, Adamyk said keeping traditions alive is important and it’s why Malanka means so much. “Food is one of the things that brings people together,” she said. “It’s important because young children are watching and (all of us) have so much to share. The dancing, the food, it’s all cultural. Everybody said (the evening) was remarkable.” More pictures Page 6
2 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Former Bruderheim CAO helping Gibbons through financial crisis BY JANA SEMENIUK Tim Duhamel, former Bruderheim Chief Administrative Officer now municipal educator, has taken on the biggest challenge of his 27-year career; getting the Town of Gibbons out of the most serious financial situation he has ever encountered. “I’ve never seen anything like this,” said Duhamel during an interview with the Lamont Leader. “Usually there’s oversight controls (and) legislation that stops this from happening. It didn’t in this case.” The situation, as Duhamel described during Dec. 18 public town hall, is a small town $12 million in debt with depleted reserves, nearly depleted bank accounts, nearly depleted borrowing capacity and enough cash to sustain them for only a few weeks. “We found that the Town is incredibly short of financial resources, short to the point that we had to have an emergency meeting with (Municipal Affairs),” Duhamel said. “We’re not talking months, we’re talking weeks.” Duhamel became involved with the Town after his company, Bloom Centre for Municipal Education, was hired by Gibbon’s previous administration to teach their mandated council orientation session after the Oct. 20 election. Gibbons residents elected an entirely new seven-member council this term. They include new mayor Rick Henderson, and new councillors Darrell Burak, Travis Currie, Darren Longstaff, Ashley Morrison, Robert Simonowits and Sharla St. Germain. “During the orientation, I gave Council an update on their current financial position, and from that, they said, Could you guys look into this a bit further,” said Duhamel. “As we uncovered things, we were a bit shocked at the situation.”
Duhamel said the situation took years to evolve and said some of the factors leading up to the financial emergency included the Town taking on debt to fund regular Town operations, misused grant funding in addition to a development that is still draining the Town of money. “The development really took it over the edge and put us into a deficit position. I’ve never seen it in my career,” he said. Duhamel refers to the 2023 Heartland Station development; a $4.5 million strip mall that was approved by previous council, without provincial grants or funding and without a provision to tie the building to the Town’s sewer system. As a result, the Town hires a vac truck to suck out the sewage at a cost of $15,000 per month. “Some things we can't share, but I can share this; what caused a lot of this problem was that development without grants and commitments from the Province to fund from Alberta infrastructure,” said Duhamel. “The Province said no multiple times and unfortunately in (this) case, the project was moved forward.” Duhamel said the Town could also be held liable for misuse of previous grant funding. “What we think happened is that restricted funds (grants) were used to fund general operations rather than (used for what the grant was intended),” he said. “We believe there’s grant liability (and) we have to pay those grants back.” Duhamel didn’t give a dollar amount to what those grants totalled. Gibbons Chief Administrative Officer at the time was Farrell O’Malley. O’Malley held the role from 2012 until he resigned in Jan. 2025. When asked if there could be possible criminal charges laid, Duhamel said “I can’t speak to that. It’s beyond my control.” At council’s approval,
Duhamel requested an increase to the Town’s debt limit which was approved by the Province. Duhamel said he is doing all he can to avoid having to use that increase. All seven members of council were present for the town hall in addition to Municipal Affairs Deputy Minister Gary Sandberg and government appointed Town
administrator Harold Johnsrude. Residents attending had several questions including whether the Town could ultimately face a dissolution. Deputy Municipal Affairs Minister Sandberg said the Town was “not at that point”. “The focus right now is very much supporting the Town to address the problems that they're
facing and get back to an even keel,” he said, adding that a dissolution could only be done after a viability review, and it would mean the Town would be absorbed by the neighbouring municipality. “In this case that would be Sturgeon County.” Sandberg said the viability review process could be started by the council or from a petition
of residents. Sandberg also had high praise for the current newly elected town council. “In this instance, you have a brand-new council that was not in office at all when any of these problems arose, and (they) reached out immediately to the minister requesting help,” he said. Continued on Page 11
WAYSLECHKO,
PULLISHY,
January 1, 1935 – January 1, 2026
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donna Pullishy, our beloved wife, mother, and Nana, on January 7, 2026, at the age of 77 years. Donna is survived by her husband, Elmer; two children, Cheryl (Richard) and Eldon (Vicki); five grandchildren, Alisha, Payton, Alaira, Emmett, and Jordan; siblings, Pat (Richard), Jack (Garnie), Danny (Verna), Janice, and Shannon; sister-in-law, Claire; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, James and Bernice McNamara; and her brothers, Richard, Tom, and Melvin. Donna’s unwavering love and affection for her family and friends, her outgoing and adventurous personality, and her infectious smile will be dearly missed. The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses at Lamont Health Care Center, as well as nurses Margie and Amber from EPIC, for their kind and compassionate care. The family also extends their gratitude to all those who have reached out during this difficult time. Mom, you will be dearly missed, always in our thoughts, and forever in our hearts. At Donna’s request, no formal service will be held. Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com.
William (Willie)
It is with great sadness and much love that we say goodbye to our beloved father, Willie, who passed away on January 1, 2026, at the age of 91. Willie will be remembered by his children, Joe, Vladimir (Leigh-ann), Margaret (Peter), Grandchildren; Cassandra (Travis), Ashleigh (Chris), Michael (Katie), Great Grandchildren; Aaliyah and Brinley. He is survived by his sister Olga and brother Roman (Dawn) along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Mike and Magdelena and most recently his wife Liz on Aug 12, 2025. A funeral will take place on Jan 23, 2026, at 11 AM at the Holy Ascension Ukrainian Greek Orthodox Church (3 White Earth Street) in Smoky Lake with Father Evan officiating. The interment (burial) will follow at the Holly Ascension Ukrainian Greek Cemetery. The family would like to thank the staff at the Lamont Health Care Centre, from the doctors, nurses and nurses’ aides to the volunteers. Willie enjoyed his interactions with each and every one of you. He received such great care. Memorial donations can be made to Lamont Health Care Centre, 5216 – 53 Street, Lamont, AB, T0B 2R0 The service for Willie will be live streamed, and the link will be posted in the obituary on Serenity website on the day of the funeral.
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The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 3
Maschmeyer returning to Olympics BY JOHN MATHER Bruderheim’s Emerance Maschmeyer as been named as one of the goalies on the Canadian women’s hockey team which will compete at the Olympics next month in Italy. All 23 of the women
named to the team play in the Professional Women’s Hockey League. Maschmeyer, starting goalie with the expansion Vancouver Goldeneyes, will be joined by four other teammates.
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It will be the second games for Maschmeyer who helped the Canadians win gold in Beijing four years ago. Team Canada will open its round robin games against Finland Feb. 5 at 5:10 MST.
Momentum remains strong for MLA recall BY JOHN MATHER The momentum appears to be continuing in the recall efforts to have Fort SaskatchewanVegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong Homeniuk removed from her office and legislative assembly seat. According to the web site Operation Total Recall, the organizing committee in Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville need 14,688 signatures on their petition by March 17. “The signing events held so far in Fort Saskatchewan, Veg-
reville, and Mundare were well attended, and our interactions with community members have been largely positive,” organizers told the Leader in an email. “Many residents have expressed appreciation for having the opportunity to participate in the recall process, and there has been strong interest and respectful dialogue at each location.” The group said they aren’t releasing specific signature totals, but did state that momentum is continuing to build. “We’ve seen a steady
increase in the number of canvassers signing up, and we’re actively working to secure additional signing locations across the constituency.” The group said they are in the process of coordinating additional signing opportunities in Lamont, Bruderheim, Chipman, Andrew, Two Hills, Myrnam, and Innisfail. “Once locations and dates are confirmed, they will be shared publicly so residents are aware of when and where they can participate.”
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Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville constituency residents turned out in strong numbers Jan. 8 to sign the Recall MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk petition in front of the Lamont post office.
Man charged after ARA school break in BY JANA SEMENIUK A resident of Lamont County broke into the Andrew Rural Academy in the early morning hours of Jan. 5, setting off alarms that alerted their security company at 5:30 a.m. Two Hills RCMP responded to a call made after the man’s presence in the school was confirmed at 6:06 a.m. according to a police press release. The release stated police were on site at 6:10 a.m. and arrested the lone male who was
inside the school building. Officers determined that the man accessed the building through an exterior door and entered both the school and the village office, which are both in the same building. Police also recovered a cash box which had been stolen. Randall James Hamaliuk, 50-years-old, of Lamont County, has been charged with mischief, theft under $5,000, and two counts of break and enter.
Hamaliuk was held in custody and is set to appear before the Vegreville Provincial Court on Jan. 12, 2026. Andrew Rural Academy Foundation Board Chair Jason Tkachuk said he has no concerns with any further break-ins to the school. “We fixed a door lock that was malfunctioning,” he said. “It’s fixed and we will replace it when the parts come in. We have no ongoing concerns with unauthorized access.”
4 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Opinion Trump delivers reason to build new Canadian pipelines BY JOHN MATHER Since it came out, I’ve looked on the Memorandum of Understanding between Ottawa and Alberta somewhat suspicously. As I stated, and as I studied it more and more it was just a piece of paper and didn’t promise anything yet tried to take some advantages from Alberta. Premier Danielle Smith said she would keep fighting and lobbying for a pipeline while Prime Minister Carney has been travelling the world saying nice things but otherwise accomplishing nothing. The MOU did see the despised Steven Guilbeault bail on his cabinet position which was reason for cheering. And this week, Chrystia Freeland has decided to resign her Toronto parliamentary seat, something she should have done a few months ago. But then last week, the silly man down south, U.S. President Donald Trump decided to run the risk of a world war by sneaking into Venezuela and kidnapping dictator Nicholas Maduro and his wife. For several months Trump had been preaching Venezuela was the cause of drug issues and illegals immigrants in the USA. He ordered blockades and had the Navy blowing up small boats he claimed were transporting drugs to the U.S. But following the kidnapping, which was done with deadly precision, it turns out it was all about reclaiming the Venezuelan oil reserves, the largest in the world, for the U.S. companies that had formerly run the industry. After the elected governments in Venezuela fell to socialist management with Hugo Chavez and Maduro, the oil industry was nationalized, the Americans kicked out, and then it was promptly run into the ground. But the Orinoco Oil Fields are heavy oil much like what is shipped from Alberta to the U.S. Gulf Coast where refineries are set up to refine to lighter product for shipping. Trump has said Chevron, one of the former majors in Venezuela, can start running the oilfields again, build them up and send the crude to those U.S. refineries that are a brief shipping route across the Caribbean Sea. No pipelines required.
CONTINUED And Trump will be able to line his pockets along with the U.S. Treasury with his confiscated lucre. Which leaves Canada with a problem, especially here in Alberta. The Trump administration could essentially be done with Canadian crude going to the Gulf Coast. And the refineries won’t care as long as there is oil coming in to keep the refineries busy. So Canada has to either build a pipeline or two to ship oil to open tidewater or see the industry - and much of the Canadian economy - collapse. Smith has written to Prime Minister Carney insisting those pipelines be built. She is fixated on the west coast in the Prince Rupert or Kitimat region. While this should happen, there’s also opportunity to construct a crude line to the Port of Churchill to ship oil to Europe. Either way Carney should take note and insist his Major Projects Office, get off its collective butt and start planning and racing to implement pipeline construction. It will take the U.S., according to much analyst, several years to resurrect the Venezuelan oil deposits. But it will take that same length of time to build a couple of new pipelines from the
Alberta oil fields also. Despite the claims of the tree hugging, environmentalist crowd, world-wide demand for oil products is increasing with no signs in sight of its growth slowing. It probably will as new methods of sustainable energy become more cost effective, and utilization effective. But that’s a long way down the road. Wind mills and solar generation is not yet at a point to be viable on a large scale. And auto manufacturers are pulling back from electric vehicles for the most simple and strategic of reasons. They aren’t selling. Which makes the Ontario and Federal governments look pretty stupid for guaranteeing big money to those super deluxe batteries plants that are now gathering spiderwebs in Ontario communities since construction has stopped. If there was ever a time to build a couple of new pipelines from Alberta to tidewater it’s now. Trump is playing loose and wild on world foreign affairs and it really can’t end well. This country can show leadership and grow our economy in this turbulent world if the desire is there among our leadership. Smith wants to get the job done. But does Ottawa?
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The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 5
FROM WHERE I SIT: Appreciate Home
BY HAZEL ANAKA We managed to make this winter ever so slightly more bearable through a week-long escape to Huatulco, Mexico. Roy and I were joined by Hilary and Ash and his parents for the January 1st trip. It’s been thirteen years since our last trip to Mexico and much has changed in that time. For example, we didn’t see military personnel with machine guns at the airport this time. Sniffer dogs and the old red light, green light system of deciding which luggage gets searched are still in play. Disembarking the plane right onto the tarmac is another reminder that we’re not in Canada anymore. This was our first trip to this southern area of
Mexico. The community is located in a national park reserve and is only thirty-nine years old. The area is known for its nine secluded bays and non-existent crime rate. We deliberately chose a small all-inclusive resort with only 106 rooms. No one in our group wanted to stay at a mega resort with 500 rooms. It should be said that some things are sacrificed at smaller resorts where economies of scale don’t play as large a role. For example, the vast majority of the resort staff spoke no English. A combination of charades and Google translate eventually got the message across. We soon discovered that foreigners like us were in a very small minority. The vast majority of guests were Mexican. Apparently, the Christmas break from school is about a month long so families had plenty of time for road trips and family vacations. We did encounter some Mexican guests who used us to practice their English as a second language skills. I did informal, non-scientific surveys of how people feel about their
female president and found the results split. The best part of the seven nights getaway was the opportunity to stare at the horizon line, doodle and draw in a sketchbook, play with an app on my newly-rediscovered iPad, and simply think. At home, surrounded by responsibilities and distractions, it is far more difficult to carve out space and time to think, dream, plan. I came home with some creative directions to explore in 2026. The worst part was a few days of diarrhea. We had gotten 2 of 3 doses of Twinrix before leaving home and had taken all reasonable precautions. Half our group suffered symptoms; oddly enough usually after eating ‘uptown.’ We ate at two highly recommended and popular places in La Crucecita. The second place was actually a sports bar where we caught the Oilers 6-2 win over the Nashville Predators. Under the heading of isn’t it a small world, I stopped at another table at the bar and asked the guys where they got their Oilers’ caps. In Edmonton at Rexall
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came the answer. They asked where I was from and when I said Andrew, one of the guys started a “my uncle’s somebody or other” story and I was shocked. Turns out the guy knew about a barber named Dary. I said there was a barber named George Dary but he lived at Willingdon. I remember a friend raving about George’s excellent straight razor shaves. We exchanged a bit more small talk and settled in for the game. This vacation was a reminder of life’s dichotomies. On one hand we were frustrated by the lack of Englishspeaking employees at the resort and on the other grateful that we didn’t have to endure the inevitable loud Americans who suck up all the oxygen in the room. A smaller resort meant fewer amenities (and lousy WIFI) and less entertainment; no pushy staff member with a microphone cajoling the crowd into pool volleyball or poolside dance lessons. But three nights of bad, bad karaoke is not the answer either. The give and take, the push and pull, the tipping point at
which a person decides on a budget, sticks with it, and accepts that this is what the money we were willing to spend gets us in 2026. I certainly wish we would have brought more pesos for things like cab rides, tips, and small purchases from artisans. During the shuttle ride back to the airport we picked up 2 couples who’d stayed at La Brisas for 9 days. With upgrades it cost them $6,500 each. Thirteen thousand dollars. Wow. I can think of many many other ways to spend $13K. Back at our resort there was no mad scramble to secure a lounger poolside. There seemed to be enough areas for people to settle in depending on what their interests were. I avoided the sun and came back as white as when I arrived. I wanted a table
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and good chair so found myself in the bar area or restaurant depending on which was cooler. Our ‘kids’ enjoyed the pool and the warm water may even have been therapeutic for Ash’s torn Achilles tendon. Everyone had time to nap, eat at their leisure, and enjoy marathon sessions playing Sequence, girls against boys. And yes, the girls continue to be reigning champions. Time away from home reminds me that Canada is the best place in the world to live. I like having four seasons. I like having structure and purpose to my days. I like having a patriarchal system that regulates and monitors things like speeding, helmet laws, food handling standards, handrails, and accessibility for people who are not able-bodied. Ironically, it takes time away to fully appreciate home, from where I sit.
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6 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Malanka celebrations at St. Michael Jana Semeniuk photos.
Costumed members of the Malanka Cast have a dance before revealing their identities by unmasking for the crowd.
The Starlight Band (front to back) Michael Hrycyk, Wyatt Hrycyk and Larry Bucholz. Missing from the photo is violin player Lisa Gould.
Ukrainian dancers kick up their heels.
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The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 7
Curling season in Lamont begins right after the ribbon cutting BY JANA SEMENIUK Members of Lamont town council joined members of the Lamont Curling Club (LCC) on Jan. 9 to cut the ribbon and officially re-open the Curling Club with their new ice plant. The curling club has been closed since last spring when the ice plant unexpectedly broke down just before the club’s final bonspiel of the year. A last-minute idea to turn the curling bonspiel into a keg curling event not only saved the bonspiel but also landed the club on CTV news. Meanwhile, this year’s
curling season was delayed while the new $600,000 ice plant was being installed. The Town of Lamont covered the cost with the curling club agreeing to raise 25 percent. LCC president, Aaron Geiger, said he was grateful for the Town’s support. “I just want to thank the Town for their investment in the community and just can't thank them enough for spending the money keeping the sport of curling alive in a small town,” he said. Geiger said the late curling season is now off to a roaring start with
CAPTION: Members of Lamont Town Council and the Lamont Curling Club gather for a ribbon cutting ceremony to signify the official grand re-opening of the curling club on Jan. 9. L-R: Kent Klasssen, Tim Bartz, Greg Huxley, Colleen Malica, Linda Sieker, Lynn Huxley, Rick Burns, Lamont Mayor Jody Foulds, Al Harvey, Aaron Geiger, Bob Starko and Dave Taylor. Photo: Jana Semeniuk several events already planned including a bonspiel that began immediately after the ribbon cutting. Geiger smiled when he shared his thoughts
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for the future. “We’re excited for the next 30 years that this plant is going to give us,” he said.
Lamont County fire chief rescinds resignation BY JANA SEMENIUK Lamont County Regional Fire Chief, Bo Moore, rescinded his resignation, which he handed into the county last month. Moore’s resignation from his fire chief role was to come into effect
on Jan 13 for “personal reasons” which were not disclosed at the time his resignation was confirmed by Lamont County Communications Director Jay Zaal, Dec. 18. Zaal said the county has accepted Moore back
into his original role as regional fire chief. “In late December, RFC Moore and Strathcona County could not come to terms consistent with the original offer,” said Zaal by email. “His employment with
Lamont County has continued uninterrupted.” Moore came to the county on June 12, 2023, from a deputy fire chief position in the city of Leduc which he resigned from in March of that year.
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Police seek B & E suspect
Fort Saskatchewan RCMP are seeking this individual suspected of breaking into a business near Bruderheim, Jan. 7.
Bruderheim coffee talks starting BY JANA SEMENIUK Bruderheim town council will host its first coffee talk this week at the Bruderheim fire hall. The idea was first brought forward by
councillor Lesster Quijano Acosta back in Nov. after observing similar events hosted in Lamont County. Quijano Acosta felt it would be an informal
Goldeneyes lose two on road BY JOHN MATHER The Vancouver Goldeneyes horrible road trip continued last week with losses to Ottawa and Montreal in Professional Women’s Hockey League action. Playing Jan. 9 in Ottawa back up goalie Kristin Campbell took the loss in a 4-2 decision that went Ottawa’s way.
Both goalies, Campbell for Vancouver and Gwyneth Philips for Ottawa faced 25 shots and each made 23 saves. On Jan. 11, Bruderheim’s Emerance Maschmeyer stopped 25 of the 26 shots she faced in Vancouver’s net as the team dropped a 1-0 decision to the Montreal Victoire.
BY JOHN MATHER Fort Saskatchewan RCMP responded Jan. 7 to reports of a break and enter at a business located just east of the town. When they arrived police were told three individuals wearing white overalls and black ski masks had broken into the property and attempted to steal several items.
Surveillance video revealed one of the suspects is a male approximately 40-50 years old with a medium build and fair complexion. If anyone has any information on this they are asked to contact the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP detachment at 780-997-7900of call Crimestoppers at 1-800222-8477.
way to strengthen connections with residents. “The benefit is (it’s) going to develop some open dialog, community engagement and accessibility,” said Quijano Acosta. “It’s part of the
whole transparency that we ran our campaigns on.” Bruderheim’s first coffee talk is scheduled for Jan. 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Bruderheim Firehall.
The teams battled through the first frame with no scoring and Montreal’s Nicole Gosling scored from Marie-Philip Poulin to get the game winner at 12:15 of the 2nd. In the Victoire net, Ann-Renee Desbiens faced 26 shots. Vancouver will complete its gruelling road trip Jan, 17 when they play the Toronto Sceptres.
They will then host Toronto in Vancouver Jan. 22. The Goldeneyes will then have two games on the road; one in Seattle, Jan. 25 and then in Minnesota Jan. 28. The league then takes a month-long break from Jan. 29 to Feb. 26 as the Olympic games are played in Italy and Emerance will play for Canada.
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8 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026
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The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 9
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10 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Rising policing costs a concern for Mundare council BY JOHN MATHER The cost of policing is rising in Mundare and that cost has councillors worried. Chief Administrative Officer Colin Zyla told council municipal policing costs would rise in April to 22 per cent of current front line policing costs and gradually increase to 30 per cent over the next five years. “Prior to 2020, municipalities with populations of less than 5,000 didn’t pay for any policing costs,“ Zyla told council. “Right now 50 per cent is based on each municipality’s weighted population and 50 per cent is based on equalized assessment.” He said there were reductions based on crime severity and if the municipality had a police detachment. He explained other changes that would be occurring in 2028 but said he wasn’t sure how some of them would work. He said he calculated the costs based on estimates of what he thought the costs would be because the municipality’s year end was different from that of the Province. “When the policing bill comes in I just pay it,” he said. He said the 2024 costs had Mundare at $40,650 based on a population of 792. He said he has taken the information he had and based the costs for the next few years on information he had at hand. “I expect 2025 will cost us $43,500 but that could change. I estimate 2026 will be $52,000.” The department has said they will be sending out cost estimates, but I haven’t received those yet.” Mayor Rick Patrie said it was something the Town still had to budget for because the costs had
to be paid. “It’s definitely going to go up but just don't know how much yet,” said Zyla. “If it keeps going up maybe we should look at getting our own in-town sheriff,” said Councillor Geoff Hughes. “That’’s a big chunk of change that’s for sure.” Councillor Irene Talaga suggested they write to Mike Ellis, the Province's top cop and state the costs were too high for a small community like Mundare that not only didn’t have a detachment in the town, but there wasn’t one in the entire County. “I kind of feel we’re not being adequately covered.” Zyla said they could do that, but the Province had done surveys when the new system of policing costs was implemented. Talaga still felt not having an RCMP detachment in Lamont County should result in a reduced cost. “We’re feeling we’re being overcharged.” Hughes wondered what the total cost of policing in the County including the separate municipalities was, and Talaga mused the County probably paid more than $100,000 on its own. Patrie stated the Province might move to a provincial police force in a few years and the funding structure would totally change again. Zyla said council could make a motion to send a letter if they wished to. Councillor Cheryl Calinoiu suggested council table the motion until the final policing costs came in, which Zyla said would be within a couple of weeks. Councillor Jennifer Johner made the motion to table writing a letter to a future date and it was carried.
Chief Administrative Officer
(CAO) Town of Bruderheim, Alberta
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY The Town of Bruderheim is seeking a community-focused leader to serve as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a rural municipality with deep agricultural ties and growth aspirations. This is a long-term leadership opportunity for someone who wants to build deep connections, grow within their role, and make a meaningful impact on the town. The ideal candidate will bring energy, vision, and dedication, not just management skills, ensuring they remain fully engaged and invested. The CAO will lead and guide day-to-day operations, act as a trusted advisor to Council, and foster strong relationships with residents, staff, neighboring municipalities, and stakeholders. The ideal candidate will bring stability, long-term commitment, and a people-centered leadership style. Qualifications: The ideal candidate is a dynamic and collaborative individual with extensive experience in municipal leadership that brings:
A minimum of 5–10 years of progressive senior management experience, preferably within a rural municipal setting. Post-secondary credentials in public administration, business, finance, or related fields are an asset, but not required. Completion of Local Authority Administration (LGA) Level I and II and an active Certified Local Government Managers (CLGM) designation (or willingness to obtain). Strong business mindset with the ability to manage finances, operations, and strategic priorities effectively. Comprehensive knowledge of the Alberta Municipal Government Act (MGA) and related legislation. Highly effective communicator, proven ability to positively engage with council, staff, and residents. A commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture and continuous improvement. Adaptive leadership style, collaborative, yet decisive when needed. Must have a genuine willingness to make meaningful roots in the community. Personal integrity, openness, and a long-term commitment mindset.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide overall leadership and administrative management for the Town of Bruderheim in alignment with the council’s strategic direction. Serve as a trusted advisor to Council, offering fact-based advice, transparency, research, and support for policy development and decision-making. Oversee departmental operations, including public works, finance, planning and development, community services, and administration. Ensure sound financial stewardship, including preparation and management of the Town’s operating and capital budgets. Promote effective communication and collaboration between council, staff, community stakeholders, residents, community organizations, and other levels of government. Maintain compliance with all applicable legislation, including the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and other relevant provincial regulations. Champion organizational development, employee engagement, and service delivery improvements. Lead and support strategic planning, economic development initiatives, and county sustainability projects. Lead community engagement, ensuring transparency, accessibility, and strong two-way communication.
Application Deadline: Thursday February 12, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Interested applicants are invited to submit their resume, cover letter and references electronically in confidence to: cao@bruderheim.ca or by mail marked "Personal and Confidential" to: Dennis Tomuschat, Interim CAO- Town of Bruderheim Box 280 Bruderheim, T0B 0S0 The competition may remain open until a suitable candidate is found, and the closing date may be extended if necessary. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026 - 11
U13 Wild gets two blowout wins over the weekend
Gibbons
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Continued from Page 2 “They deserve a lot of recognition for that.” Duhamel held the CAO position in Bruderheim from 2007 to 2010. The town of Gibbons is 42 kilometres from Bruderheim and as of 2024, according to the provincial website, has a population of 3,290.
Fort Sask Wild Rangers U15 won the silver medal in the Edson tournament this past weekend.
20
?
the team beat Cold Lake 8-3 at Bruderheim. Scoring for Elk Island over the weekend were; Mary Sobkow (5g 3a), Kayden King (6g 2a), Ellie Poirier (2g 2a), Christian McLeod (1g 4a), Jaxon Calder (3g 1a), Clara Holt (4a), Damon Rolando Bouzane (1g 1a), Maverick Lougheed (2a), Jack Corp Johnston (2a), Hunter Kobylka (1g), Landen O’Connell (1a), Sawyer Wytrykush (1g 1a), Quinn Dickinson (1a), Jaxton Fertuck (1a). Jake Holt and Carter Graham shared the wins in goal. U15 Wild Rangers dropped a 7-6 game at the Dow in Fort Sask on Jan. 7 with Landon Dagg Jones collecting a hat trick (3g 1a). Other scorers were; Tyson Jonker (1g 1a), Gray Hennig (1g 1a), Nash Klassen (1g 1a), Sawyer Hanson (1a), Matthew Pinno (1a), and Gregory Michaud (1a). Ryan Carstairs scored in his Fort Saskatchewan U17 AAA Rangers 4-0 win on Sunday against KC.
25
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 (9-8-0) won a 6-5 game at Hughenden on Saturday. Elk Island lost a 4-1 lead after two when Jets scored four straight in the final frame to take the lead. Wild scored two late goals for the victory. Alex Holt got a hat trick (3g 1a). Other scorers were; Braden Roy (2a), Marcus MacDonell (1g), Jaxon Labrash (1g), Colbin King (1g), Brody Dowhaniuk (1a), Owen Martz (1a), and Enzon Francis Bouzane (1a). Stratton Robinson got the win in goal. Elk Island U13 Wild (9-8-0) won a 12-3 game on Saturday at Lamont Arena, then on Sunday
OUR CONTEST!
We will celebrate the babies born in 2025 in our Feb. 4th, 2026 issue. Your baby’s photo will appear in our special BABIES OF 2025 feature for FREE! Municipal educator and former Bruderheim CAO Tim Duhamel addresses residents in Gibbons during their Dec. 18 public town hall. Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Send in a clear photo of your baby: email to lmtleader@gmail.com, or you can also drop it off in person at the Lamont Leader office.
Information must be included to enter: baby’s name, birth date, names of the proud parents and mailing address. DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES IS Monday, Feb. 2nd @ noon Your baby will appear in the paper! Your baby will automatically be entered into a draw to win gifts sponsored by Lamont Value Drug Mart, The Nest and The Lamont Leader.*
*Winner is chosen by randon draw - there is no judging of photographs or participants.
12 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, January 14, 2026