Unknown criminal apprehended - 2
Action from the Sizzler Rodeo: 10/11
Lamont’s street project begins - 18
OPINION: Singh left huge NDP rebuild - 4
Proud to be an Independent CANADIAN Publication
RODEO SIZZLES IN LAMONT
BY JOHN MATHER
“That was our best rodeo ever!”
That was how Lamont and District Agricultural Rodeo Chair Shelley Loren summed up the 2025 version of the Summer Sizzler Rodeo.
The rodeo stomped, rocked and rolled on July 12 and 13 at the Conrad
Schinkinger Agricultural Grounds on Highway 855 and Twp. Rd. 552.
“We had more than 6,000 people show up over the two days,” added Loren. “And that set a new attendance record.”
There was some rain on July 13 but Loren said it was actually beneficial.
The first burst came just after the slack and it worked really well to keep the dust down,” she said. “The second little bit of rain fell between the end of the rodeo and before the start of the finals of the Combine Crunch.
“It was an absolutely great weekend.”
In the combine crunch the first place finisher was
Second place was awarded to Owen
while Quinton
was declared the grudge match winner.
The weekend got underway with the annual Lamont parade on Saturday morning.
Continued on Page 12 Photos see Pages 10/11
Ladies Barrel Racing; 15.488 seconds was the fastest time on barrels coming in over the weekend. Crystal Moren photo.
Michael Mastin.
Glover
Wilchack
The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Dangerous suspect apprehended in Bruderheim NodetailsorreplyfromRCMP
BY JANA SEMENIUK
No official details could be gleaned by press time, despite email requests for information to the RCMP spokesperson, after a huge police presence was observed in Bruderheim on July 12.
Neighours in the Brookside Park area, east of town, were stunned when black vehicles began pulling onto 45 street at approximately 5:50 p.m. and officers were seen loading themselves up with weapons before stalking the streets.
Residents reported, on
social media, that police were both asking people if they had seen a red dodge with a black canopy while also instructing them to go back inside their homes with no explanation.
All the while, helicopters were seen circling overhead.
Meanwhile, a St. Paul RCMP press release, emailed to media outlets at 4:29 p.m. that day, indicated that police were on the lookout for a 40-year-old man named Ryan Alexander Paul Murray.
Murray, a resident of Sherwood Park, was
AN
reported to have been threatening to kill himself and specific people in St. Paul.
At the time of this release, Murray’s whereabouts were unknown but he was believed to have been in the Canmore area and was known to drive a red 2020 RAM 1500 Classic.
He also had an outstanding warrant for uttering threats. A photo of Murray’s vehicle, attached to the release, showed the red dodge with a black canopy.
There was no mention that Murray could potentially be in Bruderheim.
A second press release, at 6:14 p.m., stated that Murray had been arrested, but did not indicate where he was arrested.
Bruderheim was not mentioned in the release. One resident told the Lamont Leader their home was close to the action
and they were told by police to remain inside.
“We were told to shelter in place and go into the basement,” said the resident. “He (the suspect) was in the garage or house in a cul de sac (near the school) when he was arrested.”
Police did not respond to requests for more information by press time.
July 24, 25, 26 10 am - 7 pm 181008T wp 572
Signs highway 45 at RR181 (then 2miles north look for hip roof barn at corner twp 572)
Hundreds of items: cast iron pulleys, tools, household, tractors, fishing equipment, Antiques, wood stoves, wheels, Oil cans and pails, antique jacks, Gates, chicken crates, chains, glassware, shelving units, wood cabinets,water pump, generator, lightening rods, too many items to mention. No baby items. Dog on premises but will be contained.
IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO THE PUBLIC from LAMONT HEALTH CARE CENTRE (LHCC)
Effective July 15, 2025, visiting hours for both the Hospital and Long Term Care Units will be from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily.
This change has been made to align with the operating hours of our Emergency Department which are also 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
AFTER-HOURS ACUTE/ EMERGENCY CARE (i.e., 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.)
Please be advised that after 8:00 p.m. there are limited services and Staff available at the hospital.
To ensure required and timely medical services needed, the public is urged to contact Emergency Medical Services (EMS) by calling 911 or proceed to a 24 - hour Emergency Department. The closest locations are in Fort Saskatchewan and Vegreville.
Healthlink is also available to assist 24 hours a day @ 811. H U G E B A R N YA
Neighours grabbed quick photos of police arriving in black vehicles and loading themselves up with weapons before searching for a suspect in Bruderheim on July 12.
Police were observed crouching behind some bushes just before apprehending a dangerous suspect near the town's school.
Kids summer programs a go despite measles threats - no problems thus far
BY JOHN MATHER
Alberta has surpassed the United States with the most measles outbreaks in the country.
As Lamont County hosts its various summer camps for kids, the Leader asked if they had any precautions being taken.
In an email reply Communications Coordinator Jay Zaal said he had been able to confirm that Community Services didn’t have any special precautions related to cases of measles in the province as it relates to camp attendance.
“As per privacy they can't ask about vaccinations,” Zaal wrote. “And as per the Government of Alberta ads, the best prevention for spread is vaccination; with the best option for anyone with measles concerns to
call the Alberta.ca/measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434.”
Lamont in conjunction with Kalyna Country hosts a variety of summer camp programs during July in Bruderheim, Lamont, Andrew, Chipman and Mundare.
On July 14, the provinces reported it had seen 1,314 cases of measles in the province since the beginning of March.
Meanwhile only 1,288 cases have been reported in 39 states since the start of the year, according to the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
Already, both the Alberta Health Services north and south zones have issued standing exposure advisories – the idea being people in cer-
tain communities should assume they are at risk of catching the most contagious disease in the world at any time.
Measles is an extremely contagious disease and is spread easily through the air.
Symptoms include: fever of 38.3° C or higher; cough, runny nose
and/or red eyes; or a rash that appears three to seven days after fever starts, usually beginning behind the ears and on the face and spreading down to the body and then to the arms and legs.
The rash appears red and blotchy on lighter skin colours. On darker
skin colours, it can appear purple or darker than the skin around it, or it might be hard to see.
Complications of measles can include ear infections, pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, premature delivery, and rarely, death.
Dr. James Talbot, a former chief medical officer of health in Alberta, said it’s very possible that in two to four weeks a significant number of cases will be traced back to the Calgary Stampede – not just in Calgary, but in other parts of the province, country and abroad as visitors return home.
About 20 kids and adults came out in warm, sunny weather July 10 for the second annual Bruderheim Kids Water Fights fun day sponsored by Bruderheim FCSS. Any sort of water containers were used to target opposition - from buckets, to water balloons, water soaked sponges, and, of course, a firefighter with a water hose who made sure there was plenty of ammunition.
Opinion
A thankless job for next NDP leader
BY JOHN MATHER
So the Federal NDP have settled on the long, slow road to select someone to replace the miserably failed former leader Jagmeet Singh.
The race will officially kick off this September, culminating with the announcement of a new leader during the party’s annual general meeting in Winnipeg, next March.
Now for a party committed to the betterment of the working class, they certainly put a price on becoming the leader. The entry fee for candidates wanting to replace Singh at the helm will have to fork over $100,000.
In a statement announcing the leadership race Party
President Mary Shortall said, “I invite all NDP members –and future members – to take part in this pivotal moment in our party’s history.
“Together, we can rebuild a stronger NDP focused on delivering real relief for working Canadians and standing up to corporate greed.”
So far several names have been tossed about as possible candidates but none of them are what you would call household names.
The leadership opening came about after Singh was trounced in the April federal election. It’s also not likely he’ll appear in future history books as a prominent leader of the party.
He took a party that had grown very strong under former leader Jack Layton and watched it get virtually destroyed in the last Federal election.
Singh pushed the minority Liberal government of Justin Trudeau to adapt costly programs to benefit Canadians, propped up the horribly disliked government, and hung on long enough to claim his fancy gold plated pension.
And then the voters gave him the heave ho.
After all, following the election the NDP have only seven seats in parliament and have lost party status which will cost those who remain as MPs an annual $18,600 per member research allowance.
It was the worst election in the party’s history. The original Co-operative Commonwealth Federation won seven seats when it first ran in 1935 out of 245 available and corralled 8.77 per cent of the popular vote.
This time out they were reduced to seven seats out of 343 with only 6.29 per cent of the popular vote.
That’s how badly Singh had dragged down the party in the minds of voting Canadians.
CONTINUED
Now according to a recent National Post article, there are several possible candidates for the leadership but in a Research Co. Poll former House Leader Ruth Ellen Brosseau had the highest favourable rating with only 18 per cent, followed by MP Jenny Kwan at 17 per cent and Edmonton Strathcona MP Heather McPherson at 16 per cent.
Meanwhile activist Avi Lewis, grandson of former Party leader David Lewis, received the most unfavourable rating with 16 per cent followed by former Vancouver mayor Kennedy Stewart at 15 per cent and Kwan and McPherson being unfavourably rated by 14 per cent.
Another question that scored over 50 per cent for each possible candidate was answered, ”I don’t know who this person is.”
Now anyone running has a little more than half a year to gather name recognition.
It will be a tough sell and then whoever claims the leadership will have the arduous task of rebuilding the party that Singh destroyed.
This job could take several election cycles depending on how Canada, under Mark Carney’s leadership, responds to Trump’s tariff threats.
He also has to formulate a plan to create
fresh infrastructure aimed at redirecting our trade away from the U.S. and make products available to more of the world.
And if he fails in this, he may have to deal with the ongoing threat of western separation, but I think he can eliminate this by quashing some of the Trudeau government’s policies that stifled Canadian trade.
Don Davies is the current interim leader of the New Dems, having bravely stepped in after Singh was thrown to the curb by the voters.
He has the task of beginning the process of rebuilding the shattered party, but the majority of that job will fall to the next party leader. While it’s still a while for next leader to emerge, there is much work that will fall on his or her shoulders in rebuilding the federal NDP brand.
If they fail I’m sure they’ll quickly be nudged to the sidelines.
Perhaps that’s why we haven’t seen former Alberta Premier Rachel Notley showing any early desire for the job.
I’m sure it would be hers for the asking and she is extremely capable.
But the task of digging the party out of the ditch and getting it back to some form of relevant status may best be left to others before any well-known leadership candidates step up to the plate in a few years.
Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter Jana Semeniuk Reporter Crystal Moren
BY HAZEL ANAKA
For someone who’s barely walked through the garden so far this year, I’ve spent a fair chunk of time lately working in the yard, binge-watching YouTube videos, and browsing through a garden centre. Roy and I committed to whipping the yard into shape on Friday. Even though we started fairly early and paced ourselves with plenty of hydration and frequent rests, it was one hot brutal day of work.
For someone who is content to stitch or craft away the hours and days, it was a shock to the old system to be doing that manual, backbreaking work. I pulled weeds and deadheaded spent blooms on the Terese Bugnet roses and the peonies. Roy dug up two pyramidal cedars
FROM WHERE I SIT: The Hapless Gardener
which had been sun scalded last year and were an eyesore. I pruned suckers around tree bases. I moved unused flower pots back into the garden shed. Every task is so much harder when it’s hot. I empathize with construction workers, landscapers, firefighters, and anyone else forced to work under such conditions. Job site regulations require personal protective gear like boots and specialized clothing. Most of them have heavily tanned skin which is not only aging but dangerous. I found breaking out a new pair of work gloves was a wise decision.
All that bending at the waist has taken a toll on my back, hamstrings, and thighs. Getting on and off a chair is still painful. But that too shall pass. Who knew you had to train for gardening?
In gardening, as in life we often can’t fully correct past mistakes but we can sure as hell try to learn from them and vow never to repeat them. So as Roy cut down the two mature flowering trees that were either dead or dying I
wondered how we could make sure the Little Miss Kim lilac standard, the Dwarf Korean Lilac, and the two Russian olives we planted a couple years ago would lead long, healthy, productive lives.
Enter YouTube. I wondered whether I could and more importantly should, prune the young Russian olives shrubs into tree forms. The answer is yes or no. After watching countless arborists, nurserymen, orchard growers the
answer is dependent on what your goals are. The first step of pruning is always to remove dead, damaged, and diseased parts. After that the choice is ours. To amp up fruit yield, you do one thing; to control size and space encroachment you may do another; to change aesthetics you may do something different. Then what is the ideal time for pruning? Depends.
I now have a whole new vocabulary of tree language: caliper,
From the files of the Lamont Leader
Lamont and Area
LAMONT UNITED CHURCH
5306 - 51 Ave., Lamont, AB 780-895-2145
Rev. Deborah Brill
SUNDAY SERVICES 11:15 AM There will be no Church Services during the month of July. Services will resume August 10th.
Everyone Welcome! CHECKOUTOURNEWFACEBOOKPAGE!!
AA Meetings Thursdays at 8:00 pm
Lady of Good Counsel, Skaro 1st, 3rd, 5th Sundays @ 9:00 am St. Michael the Archangel, St. Michael 2nd, and 4th Sundays @ 9:00 am
canopy, open vase shape, drip line, lion’s tale, capillary action, sun scald. I’ve heard the do’s and don’ts of pruning repeated dozens of times. I got a crash course on the tools of the trade and luckily own the basics. I’ve been negligent in the care and disinfection of the tools and that will improve. A decent pair of bypass secateurs, an anvil cutter, tree saw, and loppers are the basics. Spending more for better grade steel, ergonomic design, and a couple bells and whistles will save wear and tear on both you and the plant material. Most of the pros prefer hand tools versus chain saws or electric trimmers. If you spend the $100+ on Felco secateurs, you can bequeath them to your favourite child in your will to use and enjoy for another generation. Winwin.
The birthday person always gets to choose the restaurant. Hilary’s choice was Branches at Greenland Garden Centre. We went early to scope out the perennials, shrubs, and trees. I looked at and coveted the Felcos. I looked at
Bruderheim Community Church 4904 Queen Street 780-796-3775
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and coveted so much more. Buying anything today was not in the cards even with a Mother’s Day gift card in my wallet. Neither I nor the site are quite ready yet. I did take photos of trees and shrubs on the short list. On the way to the garden centre, I started rereading Lois Hole’s book on Trees and Shrubs. While it may not be up to the minute on the latest cultivars, it can’t get much more practical and specific to our region and hardiness zone. Her recommended tried and true suggestions are still available and dependable today. When I’m ready, I will take up offers of some surplus perennials from my sister and Hilary. I will not repeat past buying mistakes as much as I love certain plants that should be hardy here. I’m looking at you astilbe, scabiosa, heuchera. I will accept that junipers will always have dead brown growth underneath. I will admit that some things are just too big for the space available. I will arm myself against the unrelenting onslaught of chickweed and quack grass. In other words, I will reclaim my role as hapless gardener, from where I sit.
December 13, 2013 issue of the Lamont Leader: Yodelling cowboy Randy Hollar, a local musician, opened for the Front Porch Roots Revue in Chipman on Dec. 7.
New rules restricting sexually explicit content in school libraries
BY JANA SEMENIUK
The Minister of Education, Demetrios Nicholaides, announced new province-wide standards for ensuring only age-appropriate materials are in school libraries by way of a ministerial order he signed on July 4.
The order followed a survey which drew responses from 80,000 Albertans, half of which were parents, supporting the move to prohibit explicit sexual content in school libraries for minor children.
“Our actions to ensure that materials in school libraries don't expose children to sexual content were never about banning books,” said Nicholaides. “These new standards are to ensure that school boards have clear guidance to ensure age-appropriate access to school library materials, while reflecting the values and priorities of Albertans.”
Minister Nicholaides said he was first made aware of the content by parents who showed him the extremely graphic material. After an investigation, Nicholaides said in May, he confirmed the material, depicting child molestation, oral sex, and suicide, was in fact available in many school libraries.
In his initial address, Nicholaides identified four book titles which demonstrated the depictions. They are: Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe, Fun Home by Alison Bechdel, Blankets by Craig Thompson and Flamer by Mike Curato.
Examples from these books are available on the Alberta government website.
Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) released a statement on June 2 that these four titles were not among material in any of their school library catalogs.
While the order did address some major issues, such as removing school library material with explicit sexual content by Oct. 1, forcing
school boards to have a publicly available listing of all school library materials (which currently EIPS does not have) and directing a regular review of the school library collection, other issues were not addressed.
One such issue is the allowance of teachers to use the explicit material in novel studies with their students.
During Minister Nicholaides’ public announcement on July 10, a reporter from the CBC National News asked Nicholaides about the allowance for teachers to use the explicit books in novel studies with students when the material was removed from the libraries as not appropriate for children.
“Any of the material that you have deemed sexually explicit, I'm reading your words, whether there's masturbation onto another person, or, explicit description of penetration. That's all fine if a teacher decides to use that book in a learning or resource setting?” they asked.
Minister Nicholaides said it’s up to teachers.
“A teacher always has the discretion to select particular books and materials for novel studies and things of that nature,” he said. “So that won't change under these new rules.”
Another item minister Nicholaides can’t address is the availability of sexually explicit content to children through public libraries that are housed inside public schools. The reason is, public libraries are overseen by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and not the Minister of Education.
However, an inquiry by the Lamont Leader prompted a response from Minister of Municipal Affairs Dan Williams, indicating that he may take action on this loophole.
“Public libraries should be places where children can access ageappropriate resources that are safe and will
help them learn and grow,” Williams said by email through his press secretary. “I am considering options to ensure that this will be the case in all libraries.”
The Alberta Teachers’ Association president Jason Schilling was critical of the ministerial order, citing the move will be “adding to teacher workload, politicizing a non-issue and targeting vulnerable students.
“Our schools cannot afford to employ teacherlibrarians to create, curate and coordinate library resources to support student learning in age- and grade-appropriate ways,” Schilling said through a statement on the ATA website.
“Ultimately, it will have a chilling effect on our schools and signal to students who are coming to understand themselves that some expressions of their gender and sexual identities are shameful and should be hidden away.”
An email to EIPS Director of Communications requesting comment on the ministerial order was not responded to by press time.
Meanwhile, Alberta Parents’ Union Executive Director Jeff Park said that although there are still concerns that need to be addressed, he feels this order is going the right way.
“We absolutely do cheer this ministerial order as a step in the right direction. Simply requiring transparency with regard to the titles available to each grade, and requiring a process to hear and process parental concerns, is likely enough to protect children from explicit material in school libraries.
“We trust parents, the best advocates for their own children, to take it from there,” said Park, adding there are still concerns. “We are concerned about the availability of sexually explicit graphic images through public libraries that serve as school libraries during school
hours and we want to see more transparency with regard to the materials teachers use in classrooms.”
According to the ministerial order, school divisions will have until Oct. 1 to remove any sexually explicit material (using definitions outlined in the order) from school libraries and until Jan. 1, 2026 to create a publicly available listing of library material in addition to policies that outline how books are selected and reviewed.
First year for new St. Michael musical theatre director a huge success
BY JANA SEMENIUK
This year’s Musical Theatre Camp in St. Michael, organized by Kalyna County Performing Arts, exceeded organizer’s expectations when a whopping 19 children enrolled.
The five-day long camp teaches kids to work together to incorporate acting, dancing and singing.
Brand new camp director, Deanna Derksen, said kids don’t have to have any prior
experience, just an interest in learning a new skill and having fun.
Derksen, 19, is no stranger to the stage herself after completing the drama program at Lamont High School and winning an award in 2024 for best stage manager.
Derksen said to help make this year’s camp a success, she enlisted her sister J’Lyn Derksen and a friend, Olivia Akkit to help out.
Derksen was grateful
for the extra hands while also being amazed at the interest from families in this year’s camp.
While she expected enrollments to be around the same as last year at 11 kids, they actually ballooned to 19.
“It took me by surprise,” she said. “As soon as I posted the notice, I got five kids instantly.”
This year’s theme was ‘Camp Curtain Call’ with a big finale show on the last day which
included nine acts centred around camping activities such as fishing, campfires and the beach.
Parents, grandparents, other family members and friends were entertained by the children’s dancing and singing their hearts out to popular music.
St. Michael AG Society events coordinator Mae Adamyk has been watching the musical theatre group over the years and said she was grateful when Derksen
stepped up to run the group this year. Adamyk was worried the camp would have to fold when the former director stepped down.
“We felt so pleased for our community to have this musical theatre group continue. When we met them (the Derksen sisters) they are the two most lovable girls, Deanna and J’Lyn,” she said. “We just felt so much love in their hearts for the community and for the kids. They were so welcoming. There was a possibility the group might not have continued if Deanna hadn’t stepped forward. The
hall is already booked for next year!”
In terms of next year, Derksen said she is already thinking of themes and intends to be running the camp for years to come.
“I thought that it was a very successful first year, and all the kids were so incredibly easy to work with, along with the parents,” said Dersksen.
“I was just incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to take something like this over, so I'm very much looking forward to my years to come in doing this.”
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The Kalyna Performing Arts Association Musical Theatre Camp pose together for a photo after their big finale performance on July 11 at the St. Michael Hall. Back Row (L-R): Blakely Tompkins, Hana McCaffery, Brooklyn Tompkins, Madison Atchison, Nora Van Heerden, Clara Graham, Maddison Stefiuk (Middle Row LR): Avery Oshust, Hayven Whitrow, Jayna McCaffrey, Kali Schneider, Kennedy Atchison, Lillie Anderson, (Bottom Row L-R): Olivia Akitt, J'Lyn Derksen, Elise Boucher, Zia Candia, Robin Crossman, Laura Semeniuk, Casey Oshust, Blake Klita, Deanna Derksen, and Rachel Klos.
HARDISTY
Pancake Breakfast (7-10am)
July 18-20 8 ly d y, F a ri Friday, July 18 yy
StreetFair (10am-3pm) Slack (5pm) Chariots & Chucks (7pm)
Wheelbarrow Races (9pm) Dance (9pm-2am) y, y 9 l a Saturday, July 19
Parade (10:30am) Rodeo (1pm) Chariots & Chucks (4pm) Dance (9pm-2am)
Sunda y, Ju y 20 l Sunday, July 20
*NEW TIME* Rodeo (12pm) Chariots & Chucks (4pm) Combine Crunch (7pm)
Photos: Crystal Moren, John Mather
Fun weekend at Lamont Ag. Society Summer Sizzler Rodeo
Combine Crunch Finale on Sunday saw the last two standing with the green Deerland combine smashing its way to first place.
Michael Mastin wins bragging rights for the year after destroying the other machines in the Combine Crunch.
Bull Riding - this rider tries to hold tight for eight on a muscle bound bull intent to toss him.
Ladies Breakaway Roping - a great event to watch, with fast calves and competitive ropers.
These two young girls work hard at pulling their ‘steeds’ around a pylon as they race each other during the annual kids rodeo July 12. The kids' events were all part of the Lamont Summer Sizzler rodeo.
Lamont County councillors Roy Anaka, Daniel Warawa and Neil Woitas toss candy to spectators during the annual Lamont parade July 12.
Steer Wrestling - one of the events where a cowboy’s brawn and timing is tested as a bulldogger.
Trick Riders wowed the crowd as the intermission show; this 4 year old girl and her horse stole hearts.
Bareback Rider - this cowboy had a jaw clenching ride as his horse crowded the fence and tried to throw him.
Pee Wee Barrel Racing - this young lady and her horse made a competitive run through the three barrel pattern.
Team Roping - this headers' aim was true as he brought the calf up for his heeler’s loop on the hind legs.
Tie Down Roping - Cowboy and horse are on this calf right out of the chutes.
Bruderheim to seek support for Maschmeyer sign
BY JOHN MATHER
The Emerance Maschmeyer sign to greet visitors to Bruderheim may be up in the air.
At the July 2 council meeting Mayor Karl Hauch brought up ideas of how the sign could be funded.
When he suggested erecting such a sign earlier in the spring Hauch stated it would be good publicity for the community.
“Not all small towns have an Olympic gold medallist who calls their town home,” he said.
Maschmeyer won a gold medal with the Canadian Women’s Hockey team.
She played for the Ottawa Charge of the Women’s Professional Hockey League for the past two years but has since been dealt to the new Vancouver fran-
chise that begins play this fall.
Chief Administrative Officer Phyllis Forsyth told council administration, “We spoke to Alberta Transportation about possible locations for the sign and have received a quote for the costs,” she said.
She added council had asked if they could seek support from the family
or approach a non-profit group for possible funding and that was the point they were now at and she wanted further direction from council.
Hauch said he had spoken with the family and there was no commitment from the family, leading Forsyth to seek further clarification about funding sources.
“Would we be able to
seek corporate support for a project like this?” he asked. And Forsyth said that was an option.
He made a motion that the administration seek corporate support and failing that see if a nonprofit group might step forward to support the erection of the sign.
“I’ll alert the Maschmeyer family as to how the Town is proceeding to keep them in the loop,” he added.
He stated he felt it was important to promote the community’s famous citizens.
“We’re fortunate to have someone of her stature in our community,” he said. “Every time she’s on television she mentions Bruderheim and you just can’t buy that type of advertising.”
His motion to follow through on the funding options was carried.
Emerance Maschmeyer
CARD OF THANKS
Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who surrounded us with love, kindness, and support during our recent loss. To those who sent beautiful cards and flowers, your thoughtfulness brought us comfort and reminded us of the love shared by so many.
We are truly grateful to those who generously provided food and meals - your kindness nourished us during a difficult time and allowed us to focus on healing.
To everyone who offered prayers, condolences, and words of sympathy, your compassion helped lift our hearts and reminded us we are not alone in our grief.
A special thank you to Gregory’s Funeral Home for their professionalism, care, and guidance in honouring our loved one with dignity and respect. Your generosity and support have been a blessing to our family, and we will always remember your kindness.
With sincere appreciation, The Prost families
COMING EVENTS
High Noon on the Prairies
An annual reunion/get-together for veterans.
All Veterans Welcome!
Aug. 18-21 at Hardisty United Lake Church Campground
Please contact Bob Stuart at 780-385-4224 or Dan Lemire at 780-781-0954, or email: hnotp@hotmail.com 27/32p
Raspberries are ready!!! Garden veggies to follow soon. East of Sedgewick, off Highway 13, turn north on RR122, then go north 3 miles.
Helen Tanton - 780-888-6800 28tfnc
Organizational meeting for friends and family of Bethania Lutheran Cemetery on July 30 at 7 p.m. (at the cemetery)
In case of rain, alternate date is Aug. 6
Bring your lawn chairseveryone is welcome 27/29p
CLASSIFIEDS
COMING EVENTS
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Rummage/Garage Sale
Alliance United Church, Thursday July 17, 5 to 8 pm, Friday July 18, 10 am to 8 pm, Saturday July 19 10am to 2pm
Viking Gymnastics Club will be having their registration open August 22, 2025 for our 8 week fall sessions. Please look for more information regarding registration closer to the above date. Don’t forget to sign your kids up fast as registration fills up quickly.
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Community Yard Sale
Our Lady of Good CounselSkaro Shrine 570010 AB-831 Star, AB
July 18, 12 pm - 8 pm July 19, 9 am - 8 pm Rain or Shine! Toys, clothes, tools, games, furniture, kitchen appliances, camping gear & much more. Vendor spots availablecontact Robert @ 780-819-3624
LL27/28p
GARAGE SALE
July 18, 19 & 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 4303
Meadow Lane Hardisty. 17' Vanguard boat with 115hp Evinrude motor, two power pants, snow blower, 9.9hp Evinrude Motor (like new), camp stoves and lanterns, various tools and household items.
27/28p
FOR RENT
Large Two bedroom Suite and One bedroom Suite in Killam. Large, clean, quiet. Available August 1. Call Chuck at 780-263-7290 26tfnc
One bedroom basement suite for rent in Viking - available August 1st. Separate entrance. Shared laundry. $800 mo. Utilities included. Call or text 780-717-6783
CAUGHT YOU LOOKING! CONSIDER BOOKING AN AD IN THE CLASSIFIEDS!
FOR RENT
Storage Unit For Rent in Killam Inside private warehouse building behind Community Press office. Security cameras on site, building heated in winter. Upstairs units available, approx 8’ x 12’. Back alley access. $100/mo. with $100 damage deposit. Or pre-pay for 6 months for $500 (1 month free) or pre-pay for 1 year for $1,000 (2 months free). Rental contract required. First month due at signing. Call/Leave Voicemail for Ally 780-385-6693 or stop by The Community Press office on Main Street in Killam. Serious inquiries only. (Note: Building is in use 7 days per week, there is no opportunity to illegally take residence inside unit.)
FOR SALE
Saskatoon U Pick
Open Daily 8 am - 8 pm
$10/ 4 litre pail 15217 Twp Rd. 492 Call/ text 780-893-5490 TMP
BLACKTOF ANGUS FARMS
Offering quality Black Angus bulls, can be used on cows or heifers. Phone: 780-218-2081
TM27-29P
Josh Post REALTOR ® The Foundry
Real Estate Co. Buying? Selling? Let's Find the Fit for You! Call/Text 780-238-7694
TM27-32P
Viking Colony
We Repair and Service All Farm Equipment! Call 780-385-6424 to Make Arrangements
Elderly Care. Not ready to let go of your freedom (but needing support)? Cooking. Baking. Cleaning. Yard Work. Gardening. Serving Viking-Sedgewick-KillamBruce-Hardisty-Irma. Call Jackie (780) 385-1019. 25/28c
General Contractor
Red Seal Journeyman Plumber and Gasfitter. Bathroom Renos & Tile New to the Area. 30 plus Years of Experience. Dave 403-999-8464
Medical Taxi Service
Personal Taxi Service to Edmonton and Back -$175 •Office Hours Mon-Fri 9-5
•Absolutely NO Hidden Fees
•Escort to Reception/Waiting Room
•Pick up and Drop off at your door
•Top Notch Service! •Includes up to 4 Hour Wait •Locally Owned and Operated. 587-987-7810
Mike & Dave RV Inc. Service, Storage, Parts. Call us today! 780-415-5015 or visit our website: www.mdrv.ca
**Located just 11 kms North of Tofield on Highway 834**.
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CRIMINAL RECORD?
Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
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Hakim Oberg Law
ALA HAKIM OBERG Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public Based in Forestburg, AB 5004 - 49 Ave. (Professional Centre, 2nd Floor) Please call for appointment. 780-238-6938
ala@hakimoberglaw.com www.hakimoberglaw.com 27/30c ———————————————
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
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VISIT OSOYOOS, BC - A haven for snowbirds looking for milder winter weather and an abundance of activities! Hotel suites starting from just $800/month. Learn more at www.osoyoossnowbirds.com; call the Osoyoos Visitor Centre at 1-888-676-9667
Volunteers Wanted to help set up and clean up on Friday, July 18 for Viking Historical Society for their event the next day. Meet at Viking Community Hall at 6pm. All help will be appreciated.
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!
BY JANA SEMENIUK
A large street repair project, valued at $1.4 million and expected to last until the end of Sept., began on 46th street in Lamont July 10th.
Huge trucks filled the street as the project began, which includes the watermain being moved into the roadway, water and sewer service replacements in addition to a full road reconstruction.
Chief Administrative Officer Tyler Edworthy said Nikiforuk Construction, who council approved for appointment in April, are facilitating the work and gave an update on the project to council at their July 8 meeting.
Edworthy requested a re-allocation of contingency funding to complete a paved trail from 46th street to the 50th avenue crosswalk in addition to pavement repairs.
“We obviously won’t know what contingency we have until the project starts, but I wanted to see if council was comfortable allocating those funds to this project without calling a special council meeting through the summer to do that,” said Edworthy.
Mayor Jody Foulds confirmed the trail in question is “along the south side of the church that’s across on the North side of the elementary.”
Councillor Perry Koroluk asked Edworthy how much percentage the contingency is, to which Edworthy replied 10 percent.
“Once we get to a certain milestone, I will be able to comfortably assess if we’ll have a contingency or not,” he said.
“I do expect we will dig into that a little bit this year with the difference in the approach for
this project.”
Councillor Linda Sieker made the motion to accept the capital works program update as information and approve the reallocation of potential contingency funds to the priority projects identified by administration. The motion was carried unanimously.
Photo: Jana Semeniuk
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Mundare resident Bob Davis, and his wife Gracie, decided to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in Bruderheim on July 12, over a thousand kilometers from where their romance first began in Maple Ridge, BC in the early 70s.
At least 60 family and friends gathered at the Bruderheim Memorial Hall for a hearty meal, along with tears and laughter, sharing speeches and memories with one another.
By fate, the couple wound up in the same bowling tournament as teenagers where it was “all over” once Bob saw Gracie.
The couple were only 19 years old when they got married a year and a half later on a sweltering July day in 1975.
Bob said it was 105 degrees F. inside the church and Gracie’s uncle, taking pity on the wedding party, bought ice cream for everyone when the official photos were taken.
Over the years, Bob and Gracie raised three children, Ronald, Tania and Jodie, and today they enjoy time with their 12
“She caught my eye right away,” Bob smiles as he remembers. “I asked her for her number and address, so she wrote her name, phone number and post office box (on a piece of paper). I told her ‘I won’t fit in your post office box, I need your real address’.”
BY JOHN MATHER
At the July 2 meeting, Mayor Karl Hauch made a motion to have council sponsor a hole in the Lamont County Reeve’s Golf tournament that will be held at Whitetail Crossing Golf Club in Mundare Aug. 21.
“It’s come to my attention that the Reeve’s Golf Tournament, which raises all its money for the Lamont County Food Bank, has asked if our town would like to sponsor a hole,” Hauch explained to council. “We have some staff who can apparently man a hole and the cost for a hole sponsorship is $400.”
Hauch said in previous years the tournament has raised more than $30,000 for the food bank.
When asked, Hauch said the town had sponsored a hole in previous years, but didn’t think they had last year.
He further stated there were many area companies participating in the tournament and it pro-
grandchildren, and one great grand child.
Due to several health conditions over the past two years, Gracie is living in the Lamont Long Term Care Centre. Bob faithfully visits her every day that he can, while taking care of their home in Mundare and travelling for his job.
In terms of giving marriage advice to young couples starting out, Gracie said newlyweds should keep their expectations in check.
“Stay committed and don’t expect things to be perfect,” she said, while Bob offered a gem for all the new husbands.
“If you fight, the husband always gets the last word,” he said.
“It’s ‘yes dear’.”
Local couple celebrate 50 years of wedded bliss Bruderheim sponsoring Reeve’s Golf Tournament
vided a great opportunity for participants to network.
Councillor George Campbell agreed to support the motion.
“I agree it’s good to be rubbing shoulders with
our neighbours and the proceeds from this tournament and the food bank supports residents from across the County including Bruderheim.
Hauch's motion was passed unanimously.
Eighth-Mile Racing at Forestburg (Old Airport) 1km west
july 19 & 20
SPORTSMAN - 1 day BIG CASH Payout
Sponsored by Poplar Grove Farms Inc & CJ Signs shop on SATURDAY, JULY 19
Local couple Bob and Gracie Davis on their wedding day, July 5, 1975, and 50 years later on their anniversary. Photo: Jana Semeniuk
The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Other Items of Interest
Weed Wednesday – REMINDERS of noxious weeds and control. See Lamont County Facebook and X for posters each week. Visit: lamontcounty.ca/weeds for a full list of weeds that are commonly identified across Lamont County. This week’s featured prohibited weed is Yellow Toadflax. If you find it, report it! Learn all about it at: abinvasives.ca/fact-sheet/toadflax-yellow/ Watch for Lamont County Council with our float at local municipality parades this summer #Candy!
Private Dust Abatement Summer intake: apply by July 31 lamontcounty.ca/news/post/private-dust-control-julyintake
Producers #AG #ASB: Reminder the Government of Alberta has live mapping via the Alberta Insect Pest Monitoring Network, and producers can sign up to participate in the annual surveys to assess damage, sample soil, etc. via:
Alberta Insect Pest Monitoring Network | Alberta.ca (alberta.ca/alberta-insect-pest-monitoring-network#surveyresults)
Some spaces are still available for some Community Services summer camps. Contact us at 780-895-2233 if you have not registered & are interested in attending.
Reeve’s Charity Golf Tournament – Almost Sold Out!
LamontCounty.ca/golf (to reserve your spot or sponsorship) – 91 per cent sold!
Reminders
2025 Municipal Election Information – lamontcounty.ca/municipal-election. Reminder, register to vote at voterlink.ab.ca
Heritage Day: Lamont County offices/buildings are closed Aug. 4 for the stat.
Local County and municipality events, farmers’ markets, community services programming (including summer camps), community celebrations and activities, Council and committee meetings, etc., can be found at: lamontcounty.ca/eventscalendar
Summer heat means staying hydrated and seeking shade! Learn about extreme heat events and how to protect yourself and others at alberta.ca/extreme-heat
Tips for reducing fire risk & farm equipment safety: lamontcounty.ca/be-prepared/ Producers require an EFP to be eligible for funding under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership Program (CAP). See lamontcounty.ca/agservices for details. What are some of the benefits of an Environmental Farm Plan (EFP)? Creates awareness/assesses of environmental risks in your operation; Is essential to the sustainable production of crops and livestock; Increases efficiency and reduces production costs; Allows farmers to be eligible for funding; and Is key for marketing and sustainable sourcing requirements and programs. Interested in learning more, contact Ag. Services at 780-895-2585 or agservices@lamontcounty.ca.
Recent News Posts
(lamontcounty.ca/news)
AIHA and Lamont County Advocacy (July 8)
Lamont County 2025 Engagement Survey - We want to hear from you! (July 7)
Private Dust Control - July Intake (July 2) Watch for the postcard in your mail, scan the QR Code!
Community Services: Serving Lamont County, Lamont, Bruderheim, Mundare, Andrew & Chipman (scan the QR code below for info.)
(VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming for full posters, dates, contact information & registration info or call 780-8952233 for info./registration). Current CALC, FCSS & KFRN and seniors’ activities include:
1. KFRN: Mindful Meetups – Drop-in programs in July/Aug. (Lamont, Bruderheim & Mundare). 2. Community Awareness Nights – in September.
3. Seniors’ Coffee: 10-11 a.m. (Wed.) in Andrew, & (Thurs.) and in Mundare. Join FCSS for coffee, conversation, snacks, & assistance with senior-related supports. Seniors Coffee is in St. Michael (Thurs.) from 10 a.m. to noon.
4. SUMMER CAMPS & SUMMER FUN - Registration started June 2 (see lamontcounty.ca/community-programming for FCSS & KFRN programs). See Lamont County’s calendar for local community events, public meetings & other important dates lamontcounty.ca/eventscalendar
To access current COMMUNITY SERVICES programs and information, scan the QR code or for FCSS, CALC & KFRN on each of the services’ Facebook pages.
REGULAR COUNCIL AND Agricultural Service Board (ASB) Meetings
The public is welcome to attend any scheduled meeting in person or virtually). Meetings start at 9 a.m. in Council Chambers/Lamont County Admin. Bldg. (unless otherwise noted).
Next Regular Council Meeting: Tuesday, August 12 | Next ASB meeting: Wednesday, August 13 lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes | lamontcounty.ca/agendas-minutes-asb
Please Note – inFocus is also available for viewing online at: lamontcounty.ca/communications (for those wanting to view the weekly submission as full-sized PDF and to access hyperlinks).
