July 23 Community Press

Page 1


JOE HARTUNG PHOTO
Hardisty Rodeo served up
LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTO
The Hardisty Rodeo Street Fair, held on Friday, July 18, had perfect weather to enjoy a myriad of things to do for all ages. The Hardisty Fire Station members offered an opportunity to shoot a target with a fire hose. More pictures inside.

5037

$219,000

$49,000

Killam ER closed for weekend starting Thursday

Covenant Health announced on Tuesday, July 22 that there are two Killam Health Care Centre Emergency Department closures coming up in the next 10 days.

The first will take place from noon, Wednesday, July 23, to 8 a.m. on Thursday, July 24.

The second is for a longer period of time, and will be from noon Thursday, July 24 to 8 a.m. Monday, July 28.

“This is a temporary measure, and Covenant Health is working to ensure community members continue to have access to the care they need during this time.

Patients are asked to call 9-1-1- if they have a medical emergency, or 8-1-1, Healthlink, which is available 24/7 for non-emergency, health-related questions.

Patients can direct themselves to Daysland Health Centre’s emergency department, or Viking Health Centre’s emergency department during these temporary closures at Killam.

RCMP investigating after fatal accident

On Sunday, July 20, just after 8 p.m., Killam RCMP responded to a call to assist EMS near the Hardisty Rodeo Grounds with an unresponsive male youth who fell out of the back of a pickup truck.

The 17-year-old male was transported to the hospital by EMS for head-related injuries.

RCMP later learned that the youth did not survive. The cause of death is still under investigation.

Killam RCMP sends their condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.

Killam RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance regarding this incident. Anyone who was at the Hardisty Rodeo Grounds on Sunday, July 20, and may have wit-

nessed something in relation to this incident is asked to please come forth.

Furthermore, anyone with footage, be it phone, surveillance, or dashcam, of the Hardisty Rodeo Grounds and surroundings area and roads, between 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the same day is asked to review the footage and submit anything that may be of importance.

Anyone with information can contact the Killam RCMP at 780-385-3502. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play store.

Local dog rescue receives very timely donation

Early last week, Canine Love Dog Rescue owner Debbie Reynolds let her followers know that she and her volunteers were stepping into help another rescue out of a difficult situation by rescuing 37 dogs from an owner who became overwhelmed trying to help others.

Reynolds said last week that, “I have made a commitment to her, the dogs, and Flagstaff County to do my best to keep these dogs fed and rehomed.”

She noted that an account had been set up a Iron Creek Vet Clinic for anyone interested in helping out with the costs to spay and neuter the dogs and puppies that are part of the rescue, and within days those costs were covered by donations.

She announced Wednesday, July 16, that Sponsor Energy, a Calgary based company, had donated $1,000 towards the costs of rescue, along with other donations from individuals. Then at the end of the week, another $1,000 from the Hardisty United Church Thrift Store

Reynolds was also looking for foster families to help out.

The dogs range in age from puppies to 3-year-old dogs.

After receiving the Hardisty donation, Reynolds says, “Thank you so much! Everybody working together is going to make a big difference and allow us to help more dogs. To the United Church Ladies of Hardisty, you are Earth angels.”

The rescue also receives donated food from Pet Valu in Vermilion and Wainwright, and has also had individual donations of food and dog treats.

Reynolds has made an appeal for her current batch of rescues, featuring them on her social media page and advocating for them as very adoptable. She says Canine Love’s adoption fee is $250 to approved homes, and that all dogs are vaccinated and spayed if past nine months.

They will take a dog back if life changes, or if owners are unable to care for it, without charging a surrender fee. If potential adopting families already have a dog, they can bring their dog to meet the rescue dog.

This is Katie, a 10-month-old female currently available for adoption.

Three part series: ‘English - My second language’

Dear Editor:

Re: English as my Second Language

This term paper was written on Nov. 28, 1994, during my University of Alberta school year. It was a very difficult and soul-searching article, taken from my mind and heart.

It made me think of the atrocities we young Indian children had to endure. This is still the legacy that I carry with me, memories good and not so good. I was only six years old when it all

Editor’s Note:

This excerpt is one of three from Sophie Maglione’s 1994 UofA term paper on her experience as an Indigenous person growing up in a Residential School in 1946. (see her letter above)

Part One:

During the periods of the late 1800s and up to the 1970s, children of native people were forced to go to school in an all-native residential school system run by the Federal Government.

The schools were run under the tutelage of the Oblate Fathers and the Grey Nuns in the case of the Saddle Lake bands and surrounding areas. History books state that the federal government had a mandate to assimilate native children into mainstream society.

My personal story is taken as an example of a child who had no knowledge of the English language and who had to learn this foreign language.

In contemporary society, this is called learning ‘English as a Second Language.’ Unfortunately for the native children, force and coercion was used to introduce this new language.

I was born on December 1940 to a Cree treaty status native man and woman on the Saddle Lake Indian Reserve, approximately 18 miles due west of St. Paul, Alberta. I was raised speaking the Cree language.

It was 1946, and I was six years old when I was first enrolled at The Blue Quills Indian Residential School, three miles east of St. Paul.

I was totally unfamiliar with the English language. Cree was my mother tongue. This was a very scary and lonely time of my life. Not only could I  not understand the foreign language, but I was separated from my only source of love, my grandfather.

Throughout the 11 school years that I spent at  Blue Quills, loneliness and terror were my constant companions.

Incidentally, my mother was also enrolled at Blue Quills in the early 1930s when the school was still situated right on the Saddle Lake Reserve site.

Although my two older sisters were around they could not do very much for me as they had to endure the same conditions I did.

School existence consisted of early rising, regular learning classes, home economics, manual labour, a lot of religious instruction, and lots of harsh discipline. This was the environment of my schooling in the “Second Language.”

started. I will never forget the children, the cattle trucks, and the crying and screaming. You would think that I would forget. I still hold a ‘legacy’ of hearing loss sustained when a priest who was supposed to be a ‘holy’ man punched me in my right ear. I would have gotten it in my face if I hadn’t turned.

To date, I have total hearing loss in my left ear, and use a hearing aid on my right ear. As a young girl I was

Due to the nature of the residential school in-house living conditions, other aspects will be introduced because the whole of the repressive learning experience is interwoven into this true narrative.

Grade 1:

Grade 1 was a good experience for me. The main reason that this was a positive experience was due to the Grade 1 teacher. She was a nun and very pretty. She was tiny in stature. Her name was Sister Toullalande. She had a lot of patience.

I remember sitting in this strange desk, not understanding the garble coming out of her mouth. I will never forget this teacher, who introduced me to the school experience.

In retrospect, maybe that is the reason why I decided to teach elementary school; because I want and need to be ever-so gentle to the children coming into the Grade 1.

I am sure that they will be terrified to be away from their mothers and fathers, and I want to be there for them to offer the nurturance that is being interrupted.

Reading in Class:

Vague remembrances surface concerning classroom experiences. For example, reading stories by the teacher proved to be a memorable experience for me. Sister Toullalande read this book about a beaver or a muskrat who had the attributes of a person.

I knew what these animals were because my grandfather trapped them for his living.

This story had significance for me, and I loved the story and could not wait for the next sequel, which the Sister read during a certain part of the day.

However, other stories presented to us native children showed a mother busy in her kitchen baking cookies, a father going to work, and a sister and brother due doing fun things together.

Incidentally, these stories were about white people. My experience with cookies came out of books. At my home in the reserve, my step-grandmother never baked cookies, only raisin pies at Christmas time.

In all my years of school at Blue Quills, I do not remember any native stories that were related to us. I do remember so well, to this day, that I did not feel good about being an Indian.

I am angry about this.

Movies:

Movies were a highlight of my existence. The majority of the early flicks

ashamed of my hearing loss, especially when people unknowingly would chastise me when they had to repeat themselves. Today it’s called a ‘handicap.’

However, I must have persevered with my studies. I now hold a Bachelor of Education Degree, earned in 1997 at the University of Alberta, in Edmonton. There’s always hope, especially while a young person who wants and needs to help other children.

This article also is a part of our Cana-

were about smart horses like Black Beauty, an English classic. Cowboys and Indians, with the Indians being the bad guys, were shown to us on a regular basis. And we cheered on the good guys who were the depicted likes of Hopalong Cassidy and Gene Autry.

The few exceptions that an Indian was a native hero was Tonto, but he played a subordinate role to the Lone Ranger.

No wonder the native and white population thought Indians were no-account, with the types of stereotypical movies we were shown.

The best movie of my early recollection was about Hawkeye and Chingachkook. I was fairly young and impressionable those days. I was so enamoured of the brave Indian scout who was rescuing the blond helpless woman in the story. Even then, I did not really grasp the significance that I was an Indian myself because most movies were all-white content.

Songs and Numbers:

Just recently, in my Education Element 316 class at the University of Alberta, we were asked in class to classify approximately 20 numbering songs to coincide with our memory. Our instructer went through the list and one was a blank, then “Little Peppers.” No on in the class remembered. Then she said, “Ten Little Peppers.” It finally dawned

dian history, although a ‘dark’ part. We will persevere to teach our children their legacy.

Incidentally, my daughter, now deceased, also received her Education degree for adults. She also achieved her goal.

I needed to share the experience so others will also keep going with their education.

As ever, Sophie Maglione.

on me that this little ditty was none other than the song “Ten Little Indians.” There was no such song as “Ten Little Peppers.”

Due to the ditty being inappropriate to today’s teaching standards, this must have been changed to the new version of “Ten Little Peppers.” I wonder, too, at the change, because “Peppers” and “Indians” are both connotations of dark-complected entities.

I asked my 13-year-old grandson if he remembered singing the song and he remembers it from 1985 when he was in Kindergarten.

Clearly, the school system has only just taken that particular ditty out of the school song curriculum due to the racist overtones.

Nevertheless, I remembered the song from my school days and liked the song for its counting and lilting melody. I did not connect the words as being inappropriate then. Our instructor had indicated that some of us would remember this old, old song and would probably ‘date’ some of us. I did not, until I  changed the words from “Ten Little Peppers,” to “Ten Little Indians.”

In today’s age of Canada’s multi-cultural society, you need to be so careful what you teach children in the classroom.

Part 2 to follow in next week’s edition

Hardisty Street Fair Car Show had plenty of nostalgia

LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTO
The Hardisty Street Fair’s car show featured 55 different cars, from all eras and makers. This Dodge Muscle car was one of the most popular entries, and there were plenty more to choose from if this didn’t tickle your fancy.

OPINION

Have the scam talk, and have it often with your family and

friends

It’s all too common, you get a phone call that’s an obvious scam, or an email from the Estate of a Nigerian Prince; and it’s easy to laugh it off.

But scammers are getting more and more sophisticated, and the best armor you can have against them is knowing what the current scams are, and how they operate. For that, it’s really great to talk to friends and family members and find out what they know.

Sometimes it will be a learning opportunity for them, but often, it turns out to be a learning opportunity for both, and doubles the protection you have against scammers.

Knowledge is power, the more you know, the less susceptible you will be to people trying to separate you from your money.

Scotiabank says, “A chat about fraud is more effective if you keep things casual. Introduce the topic frequently to normalize talking about it. If you have personal experiences with a scam, share what happened and how it made you feel. This will help create a safe space for your loved ones to share their stories and experiences without embarrassment.”

If we normalize the experience by talking about it, it can become less scary, and less frantic, and without the power to make you panic, scammers have lost one important tool in their arsenals.

Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely has visited most Flagstaff Communities communities so far in her current door knocking campaign, and will cover the Camrose and area municipalities of her constituency, from her tour starting July 4 in Bashaw and ending Aug. 23 in Camrose.

Local MLA taking to the streets of a community near you

and Tofield as well as Forestburg, Lougheed, Sedgewick, Killam, Strome, Daysland, and will travel to Meeting Creek, Edberg, Rosalind, Bawlf, Viking, Ryley, Holden, Bruce, and spend a few extra days in Camrose between now and the end of August.

Lovely visits residents with her hired students, which Lovely says gives them a good idea of what an MLA does.

“I bring a mixture of volunteers and students with me for door knocking and other events I attend in the community.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor;

Letter: Independent candidates won’t force electoral change

The longer this by-election carries on, the more independent candidates are added. Why?

There are also four parties who do not have too much support from the majority of this riding. Why would the majority of the voters in this riding put in an independent candidate?

Kevin Sorsenson, who has a lot of influence on this riding, has placed his full support behind Pierre Poilievre and I am convinced that he will achieve 85 per cent-plus of the popular vote.

Whoever convinced these independent candidates to think it was a good idea to apply should have their heads examined. This will not force electoral change. This in my view is a huge waste of time.

On Aug. 18, we will see if I am correct on my prediction on the results of this election.

“I door knock throughout the communities on a regular basis to touch base with constituents so I am on top of what concerns exist in the community. If the only time constituents see their MLA is at election time, I don’t feel that is an effective MLA,” Lovely has said. Lovely has visited Bashaw, Camrose,

“I feel it gives good exposure to what an MLA does for those who are interested. For the students, I like to give them work experience and provide a reference for them,” she said.

Alberta T0B 4C0 Phone 780-385-6693

E-mail: (Advertising): production.cp@gmail.com, (News): newsroom.cp@gmail.com Funded by the Government of Canada

Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely is presently on a door-knocking tour of her constituency, where she started in Beaver County, and worked all through Flagstaff County over the past week, including Forestburg, above.

Congratulations to Justin Hayes and Emily Dauvin who were married on July 11 at their acreage east of Alliance. They purchased from Bruce and Linda Jans. They had about 35 guests from out of town come to witness their marriage and share in the day.

I met Jason Campbell at the rummage sale. He came from BC to buy Malcolm’s place. He found the price right and the double garage was a great attraction. This young man is going to do some renovations on the house.

All four Wold boys were home for a few days on the farm. Their mother, Mary came out of the long-term care facility at Killam to spend a few days on the farm. Eldest son, Ed, lives in Arizona, Les lives in Edmonton while Clifford and Clarence make their homes here.

There was a Bullee reunion at McKenzie and Blakes’ on the July 11-14 weekend. There were

about 50 members of the Bullee families present including some Deitrich's from Barrhead.

The Community Hall was busy on June 20 with a Memorial for Mary Brown’s partner. He passed away a short while ago. They made their home in the house that was owned by Chris and Phyllis Berreth back in the 1980s. It looked to be a good-sized gathering.

A Memorial for Syneva Baltimore (nee Holmberg) will be held in the Alliance Community Hall on Tuesday July 22. Her sister, Karin McCracken, was organizing it.

Anne Nelson, a former Alliance resident now residing in Saskatoon, and Vickie Cloakey were both at the same graduation in Grande Prairie for their respective grandchildren.

The Buchanan Store is undergoing some exterior and interior renovations. I met with Balwinder Singh, owner to see what plans were.

Balwinder and his wife Poo Nampreet Kaur, came to Canada from Punjab in 2017. They chose Alberta because of the opportunity and more reasonable prices for property. They now have

three children, girls eight and one and a son who is six.

Balwinder worked as a restaurant manager for two years in Edmonton before they bought a Fat Burger franchise in Edmonton. The next venture was to buy greenhouses in Medicine Hat. They now have three with 68 workers. They have an interesting international workforce from Australia, New Zealand, India, and Pakistan, producing several varieties of tomatoes and cucumbers.

The organically grown produce makes its way to Alliance Valley Inn, Buchanan Groceries, Hughenden General Store, and Canada Pizza in Brooks, all businesses that they own.

The renovation on the store is being done by his own crew. After they finish with the store the Alliance Valley Inn is next.

The store will be restocked with groceries and liquor and there will be a grand re-opening to celebrate the renovations.

Plans for the restaurant include a new cook coming in August to assist Suki and new items added to the menu.

I have requested some Indian dishes and

desserts. Butter chicken, rice, and naan are available now. Samosa, veggie paneer pakoda, butter naan, and garlic naan will

be coming. Paneer Pakoda looks like a deep fried cheese. They are planning a grand opening to put the new cook through the paces. Valley Inn has the best French fries and the pizza is still very good, (Hazel’s recipe).

Hardisty Rodeo weekend offers incomparable excitement

Well hello folks. Now wasn’t that a party? What an exciting four days we had in Hardisty.

Thursday evening folks were thoroughly entertained at our unique Bird Dog Theatre that recently opened its doors. The Blake Reid band entertained a packed house of eager music fans.

I spoke with a few lucky folks that were able to get tickets and they were thoroughly impressed. There was a full house and the band even received a standing ovation. Wow, that is impressive! After the show was over the band and the owners of the theatre went over to the Hardisty Hotel and enjoyed food and refreshments and musical entertainment continued on.

I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall. The music and ambience must have been magical. I wonder how many folks were privy to this wonderful display of musical talent in our Hardisty Hotel? Who ever said that small towns are boring. They were certainly wrong this weekend.

Local oil companies were so generous again this year and provided a lovely free breakfast at the Town Hall. Sausage, eggs, and pancakes filled your bellies and of course coffee. Egg cookers went

through 1,200 eggs alone, and they are guessing that around 700 people were fed on Friday! The smell of an outdoor breakfast being cooked is just the best and you get to visit with friends, neighbours, and visitors to Hardisty.

This is a great start to a weekend of fun. After breakfast you saunter on downtown to our Street Fair. I hear so many compliments about what was offered to the public this year.

Gord and Maureen Longman were instrumental in organizing the vehicle “Show and Shine.” They had 55 vehicles including motorcycles for your viewing pleasure. Gord was able to get funding for prizes from surrounding businesses and even handed out handmade trophies.

Leslie Burland won “Best Car” and it was a pink Volkswagon. Ed Goodrich won “People’s Choice” with his gold/ rust coloured truck. (We were not sure how to describe that colour so hope we were close) Ian Bird won for his Indian motorcycle. Congratulations to all three winners.

We were also privy to the RCMP transport truck that brought two race cars and a miniature police car. The YIELD Association races these cars at Western Canadian Drag races and are sponsored by the RCMP. Folks were so impressed by all these interesting automobiles. A huge thank you to Longmans and also Jodi Busk for helping.

All the money that was donated added up to $1,190 and it was donated to STARS, who had two representatives there to receive this generous donation. Boy, it is darn amazing what small town folks manage to pull off.

Our Street Fair this year was absolutely mind blowing. Thank you to Eilish Morrison and her small committee of helpers. I thought I heard wrong but all the events for children were FREE this year. Wow, you heard correctly.

All the events were paid for by generous local business sponsors and an extra huge thank you to Husky.

Kids were able to enjoy snow cones, inflatables, games, live ponies, face painting, hair tinsel, mascots, and more. I can’t recall everything. Curtis Sutter donated his time and the cool train that you saw cruising around the Street Fair filled with beaming little faces.

Our library was busy serving nachos/tacos in a bag so we were busy, too. There were many happy faces out there. People loved our inexpensive book sale and our yummy food at the library. Thanks for supporting us again.

One of the street vendors has had a couple that comes all the way from Unity, for the past three years. They think we have the best Street Fair, great vendors, and they love our Library book sale. That is quite a compliment. Hardisty you rock!

I am sure that many of

you enjoyed the Hardisty Rodeo and The Community Press will have lots of action pictures. I spoke with a few of the rodeo organizers and hard workers.

They are a dedicated crew that dazzle us every year with what they manage to organize.

The weather put a damper on the racing events but safety for the animals and racers is of utmost importance and your patrons are well aware of that.

The Combine Crunch always draws a crowd and there were some scary moments but the excitement was palpable. There were eight combines competing and Ricky Fischer was the 2025 champion. Congratulations. You are all so very brave to get smashed around in those big combines and not get badly injured. Whose brain child was it to invent the combine crunch anyways? I would love to know.

The rodeo is always looking for more volunteers. Why not join this

exciting

swimming

Please call me with your news. Thanks, Ricci

group of folks, you won’t be bored. Have a wonderful week everyone. Remember
lessons start soon at Hardisty Lake.

Hardisty Street Fair and Car Show fun

LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTOS

After roughly 700 people enjoyed a free breakfast at the Community Hall, many wandered over to the Street Fair on Main Street Hardisty on Friday, where there was lots to see and do for visitors of all ages. The kids were able to enjoy some high-flying bouncy houses, climbing challenges, and visits with friends, while kids of all ages enjoyed an amazing car show with 55 vehicles of all ages, colours, and types.

Bluey was on hand for lots of hugs.
Brave youth took the plunge from high spaces.
The VW Beetle took ‘Best Car” at the car show.
The climbing wall was a popular spot for many.
An RCMP Smart Car was on display with two RCMP race cars, too.
Friday’s magician needed a hand from volunteers to get up on his very high uni-cycle!

2025 Hardisty Rodeo Action

JOE HARTUNG PHOTOS Jayda Songhurst Junior Barrel Racing
Wild Pony Race with local boys.
Mann team of wild horse racers.
Ladies breakaway roping.
Steer Wrestling
The bulls were tough competition at the Hardisty Rodeo

Flagstaff Fitness Challenge week five

winner Kristen Kells

FLAGSTAFF COUNTY PHOTO

The Week 5 Flagstaff Fitness Challenge winner is Kristen Kells. Challenge organizer Cary Castagna says “Kristin has been powering through the Flagstaff Fitness Challenge with determination and heart — and her efforts just earned her a fantastic prize pack! Way to go, Kristin! Thanks for showing us what it means to stay active and engaged in our community. Keep moving and keep inspiring!”

Tofield 2025 Show and Shine

and refreshments

August 4, 2025, Main Street, Tofield

THURSDAY, Aug. 7

4:30 pm Food Truck Fair, Kids Activities & Inflatables

7:00 pm Bull Bash - Late night Beer Garden onsite to

FRIDAY, Aug. 8

5:00 - 9:00 pm: Promenade/Street Fair 6:00 pm: Rodeo Slack

SATURDAY, Aug 9

9:00 - 11:00 am : Pancake Breakfast

1:00 - 6:00 pm: Western Market 3:00 pm: Rodeo Performance 9:00 pm : Rodeo Dance with Live Band Featuring: Slow Walkin’ Walter SUNDAY, Aug. 10 1:00 pm: Rodeo Performance

PUBLIC FREE Come Early: Pancake Breakfast 8:30 - 11 am, Seniors Drop-in Centre

• New cars: Vintage, Classic & Collectors • Cars: Muscle, Rods & Modified

• Trucks: Vintage, Classic & Collectors

• Cars & Trucks: Proud & Newer • Convertibles & Work in Progress

For more information contact Jessee 780-916-6151 Tofield is 25 minutes East of Edmonton on Highway 14 For more information contact Jessee 780-916-6151 Tofield is 25 minutes East of Edmonton on Highway 14

102nd Annual

Lougheed FAIR

Saturday, August 9

Pancake Breakfast 8-10 am Lougheed seniors centre Parade at 10:30 am men’s baseball & ladies softball at the diamonds museum open all day museum features include kids money pit, bingo, gift shop, ice creem, iceD coffee bench exhibits on display until 4pm entertainment for KIDS - kids corner including games & TRAIN beer gardens market vendors cattle show & judging hoRse show & judging meals & snack booths all day roast beef supper 5-7 pm lougheed community hall

14 4 p 4pm m b mby by t y th h ythhe bythe a e ar earareren en earena 1-4pm the arena pmbyt -4 pm byt arenrena 1-4 pm by the arena

CLASS AWARD PLAQ LASS AWARD PLA CLA CLASLASS A CLASSAWASSAWA A SSAWARD D SAWWARDPLAQUES AQUE A RDPLAQLAQU U PLAQUE E AQUES S CLASS PLAQUES LAQUE

AY Y MAYORR’S YOR C R’SCH YOR’SCHOIC R’SCHO S ’SCHOICE CE A SCHOICECHOICEA HOICEA HOICEAWA A OICEAWAICEAWAR CEAWARD AYOR’S CHOICE CHOIC AWARD PA PARTTITIC PARTICI C RTICIPA PARTICIPANANTS TS TICIPANTS’ C ICIPANTS

Sedgewick’s Garry Klein taking part in Great Cycle Challenge

The Polege family joined about 75 family members at Brownfield for the 120th anniversary of the Henry Noel Black family homesteading in Alberta.

Highlights were a bus tour of homestead sites and bottle-feeding lambs. The age range was from two-and-a-half months to 99-and-a-half years! Thanks for sharing!

Exciting news from the Bernard Family. Hennie and Brian’s granddaughter, Hannah Bernard, made the western Cana-

dian under 20 ultimate frisbee team and was playing in Costa Rica last week at the Pan Am games. Congratulations!

A local family spent a day exploring the community of Strome last week.

From a picnic at the excellent, nicely treed playground on Main Street to the Sodbusters Archives Museum.

While we always hear great things about this place, only a few of us ever set foot into the museum. Well, get ready to be absolutely blown away.

“What a treasure trove of fossils, First Nations artifacts (including a replica of the Iron Creek meteorite), animal

Semi Finals turning out exciting finish for BRBL

The Powerline Baseball League finals are underway, with the Rosalind Athletics up one game against The Rivals, with a second game going in Rosalind, after print deadlines.

A second win at home for Rosalind would have clinched the championship for the fourth time in a row, while a win for The Rivals would have

forced Game 3 back in Daysland this Thursday, July 24.

Check Powerline’s Social media accounts or this column next week to get the final result.

The semi-finals in the Battle River Baseball League are tied on both sides, as Amisk and Czar tied their series with Macklin and Veteran respectively to force a game three tonight, with Amisk in Macklin and Czar at Veteran.

mounts, wedding dresses, and all kinds of other items reflecting what life used to be like in the area. This place is a must see.” So take note! It’s open all summer long!

Catherine Witzaney, daughter of Judy and Dave Zinck, is a published author. You may remember me writing about her book debut before. Well, she just won a Realm award for the middle grade category. Congratulations, Catherine.

The sequel is now

available and book three is scheduled for early 2027.

The Hardisty Street Fair just keeps getting better each year! I don’t know how it’s possible but I heard raving reviews! Thank you Hardisty for always pulling out all the stops!

And for those who may have missed it, the Field Family is back home! Jake, Lincoln, Maddi, and their parents have returned to Flagstaff County after 100 days spent in hospitals.

We are so happy to see them back in the community. Welcome back, Fields, welcome back home!

The Flagstaff Scottish Club is getting ready for their Annual Highlands Festival in August. You have a chance to get free admission to the event by volunteering for a couple hours!

It’s an all-day event, so it’s the perfect opportunity to take part and still take it all in! There are lots of opportunities to help out!

Sedgewick Local Garry Klein is taking part in the Great Cycle Challenge this August and is pledging to ride 100 km for all kids fighting cancer. You can support him and his efforts by donating to his cause. His fundraising goal is $500. Go, Garry! Millie Meyers, formerly of Lougheed, will be celebrating her 90th birthday this week in Red Deer. She says she loves and misses all her good friends in Lougheed and in Flagstaff County.

Battle River-Crowfoot by-election already setting records

Before the last General Election held earlier this year, the longest ballot on record for any constituency had 91 names on it, in LaSalle-ÉnardVerdun, Quebec.

That number was matched in 2025 in the Carleton riding, where Pierre Poilievre was running for re-election.

As of Monday, July 21, just a week before the final list of confirmed candidates will be available for the upcoming Battle River-Crowfoot byelection, there are 119 names on the list.

The list rose steadily last week, starting at 58 on Wednesday, 78 on Thursday, 108 by late Friday, and 118 as of midday Monday.

As of Monday, 18 of those names on the Battle River-Crowfoot candidate list also appeared on the Carleton ballot in the 2025 General Election.

Most of the candidates are running as Independents, and a majority have Tomas Szuchewycz listed as their official agent.

Some of these independents have websites, but one leads to a social media page, more than one leads to a YouTube video, and one even leads to a website where the user gets a turning wheel ...loading, until you look up and see the name of the website is patience-isa-virtue.org.

They claim their platform is election reform.

Some of the independent candidates say they are making a genuine run at leading the riding; people like Bonnie Critchley, who says she comes from the area.

In an open letter to the Longest Ballot Committee, Critchley says, “I don’t have a massive team, I don’t have backing from millions of people.

“I have to go door-todoor within my community and explain to my neighbours that I have nothing to do with you.”

Other than Independents, there is a United Party of Canada candidate, Grant Abraham; a Libertarian Party of Canada candidate, Michael Harris; a Liberal Party of Canada candidate, Darcy Spady; a Conservative Party of Canada candidate Pierre Poilievre; and a Christian Heritage Party of Canada candidate, Jeff Willerton. One can see the issue that candidates like Critchley are up against, working under the same moniker “Independent,” as those trying to disrupt the by-election to make a point, vs. someone who genuinely cares about the riding.

The Longest Ballot Committee says there are two main election issues they would like to see addressed.

They say the ‘First past the post,” voting system is unfair, endorsing proportional representation. They also say it’s bad form to leave electoral

reform to the party in power, leaning towards a system where a non-partisan committee instead is put in charge of amending Canada’s system.

When Poilievre recently came out in favour of one such change, that of requiring each candidate to obtain 1,000 signatures from residents of the riding they hope to represent, the Longest Ballot Committee cried foul, saying, “Poilievre’s proposal for a new 1,000 signature requirement would have a profound and negative impact on Canadian democracy. In most of Canada it would turn every election into a two-party race, and in safe ridings, like Battle River-Crowfoot, we would likely see no election at all, races would simply be won by acclamation.”

The committee says that “So long as we are legally permitted to do so we will continue to use long ballots as a platform to call on politicians of all stripes to do the right and ethical thing: recuse yourselves and pass responsibility for deciding election rules to a perma-

nent, independent and non-partisan body, such as a citizens’ assembly to decide.”

Michael Harris, the Libertarian Party candi-

date, told CBC that the protest is a “mockery of the democratic process.

“This flood of joke candidates doesn't just waste voters’ time.

“It actively hurts serious Independent and third-party candidates who are working hard to give this riding real alternatives.”

We are heartbroken to announce that Wade Douglas Bonnett of Killam passed away Monday, July 14, 2025, at the age of 76 with his loving wife Jacquie, son Mark, and daughter Lisa by his side.

Wade was born on March 18, 1949, in Killam to George and Doris Bonnett. He was the last to

Killam RCMP Detachment Report for the period of Friday, July 11 to Thursday, July 17

Friday, July 11

EMS called for assistance to the Hardisty Hospital for a stabbing. Victim was transported via Stars. Subject was arrested and held for a JIR. Subject was released on conditions by Justice of the Peace.

Sunday, July 13

A Suspicious vehicle reported in Sedgewick. Member ran the licence plate. Contacted the Registered Owner. Vehicle not stolen.

Monday, July 14

Theft of a truck and skid steer from Forestburg. Member attended. Video

arrive after his six brothers and two sisters.

Wade grew up on the family farm northwest of Killam where he waited for visits from his older siblings. They always brought him gifts; from his first ball glove, bike, or even a goat. School was short lived for Wade and he then entered the work force.

It was soon after he met his life partner, Jacquie. They were married in Killam on October 23, 1970. First born, Mark Douglas was born February 11, 1970. It was then that Wade and Jacquie moved north to High Prairie where Wade worked in construction for his

available. Vehicle seen is also suspected of a break and enter in Czar. File still under investigation.

Killam Detachment received numerous calls regarding a Subject sitting on the side of Highway 13 near Strome. Members patrolled the area and Subject was not found. A few hours later more calls came in. Patrols made and Subject was located, apprehended under the Mental Health Act, and was transported to hospital.

Wednesday, July 16

Members conducted a traffic stop for no licence plate light. Subject was asked to do a MAS (Mandatory Alcohol

Wade Douglas Bonnett

brother-in-law, Cliff Calvert. This time always brought back fond memories for Wade and a lot of stories.

Spring of 1972 brought them back to Killam to put in the first crop at their farm northeast of Killam. Lisa Mae was born August 24, 1972.

Life on the farm was busy, but this is where his family learned the work ethic that continues through to the next generation.

In the winter of 1985, Wade started his 34-year career with Grainline Implements holding various positions. It was here he developed many longlasting friendships with

employees and customers. These relationships he valued and continued well after retirement. In the winter of 1989, Wade and Jacquie moved off the farm and into town.

It was in this house that their family made so many wonderful memories. The start of which was when they welcomed their first grandchild and only girl; Aryn Jayd in 1999. Next was Brett James in 2000, Chad Wade Douglas in 2001, and Tyson Lee in 2003. These four kids were the icing on Grandpa’s cake; they meant the world to him. Together, he and Jacquie were the perfect

grandparents.

Wade leaves to mourn his passing his wife Jacquie, son Mark; children Aryn and Chad (Kailyn), daughter Lisa; children Brett and Tyson (Edyn); Sisters Dorothy Calvert of Grande Prairie and Bonnie Hammond of Lethbridge, sisters-in-law

Carolyn Bonnett of Lethbridge, Verla Bonnett of Beaverlodge, and Leona Bonnett of Killam, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Wade was predeceased by his parents, George and Doris Bonnett, brothers Maurice, Norman, Terry, Don, Allyn, and Gerald, and brothers-inlaw Murray Hammond

and Cliff Calvert, sistersin-law Joan Bonnett, Alma Bonnett, and Diane Bonnett.

Card of Thanks

The family would like to thank all of the staff at the Red Deer Cancer Clinic, and a special thank you to Dr. Hanton and all of the staff at the Killam Health Centre that took excellent care of Wade and his family throughout his illness.

Arrangements by Fee and Sons Funeral Home and Crematorium Killam

Helping families and their Communities for over 100 years feeandsonsfuneralhome.com

RCMP Report: Police investigating tractor stolen from Hardisty

Screening) and blew a caution. Subject refused the roadside appeal. Three day impound and drivers licence suspension. Vehicle towed.

Thursday, July 17

A tractor was reported stolen from the Hardisty area. Video footage was available. Tractor was later recovered behind the Killam Krossing. File is still under investigation.

A suspicious vehicle was reported near Hardisty. It was reported that the vehicle was parked on the side of the road all day. Member attended and the Subject was fixing a flat tire. Vehicle not stolen. Member stayed and blocked traffic

so the truck could reverse on the highway safely.

Killam /Forestburg RCMP are reminding citizens that 310-RCMP (3102767) remains a fully active, province-wide phone line dedicated to handling non-emergency

police matters. Whether you need to report a suspicious person, property damage, or a minor theft, this number connects you directly to the appropriate RCMP detachment - no area code required. The 310-RCMP line is an im-

portant tool that helps streamline the reporting process, ease pressure on 911 services, and support more efficient police responses to non-urgent incidents.

Killam & Forestburg

Baptist Church

Killam: 780 385-3607

Service Times: Killam: Worship – 10:55 AM

Sunday School – 9:45

Forestburg: Worship – 9:00 AM www.killambaptistchurch.ca www.forestburgbaptist.ca

Prepared by Killam
RCMP Detachment

CARD OF THANKS

Sorry it’s delayed, but the families of Arnold Usenik would like to say thank you for helping us celebrate his life. The community and extended family support was so amazing. Would like to thank everyone for all the cards, flowers and donations to STARS.

Lorna Usenik and Famlies

COMING EVENTS

Canada’s Oldest Pro Rodeo returns this weekend BRUCE STAMPEDE

Friday, July 25 at 7pm ABRA Jackpot. Limited concession. Saturday, July 26

LOCAL Rodeo at 12:30pm. $10 Horseshoe Tournament at 1pm. CPRA Slack Runs at 5:30pm - FREE admission.

Entertainment with The River Jacks with Beer Gardens and Dance. $10 per person. Starts at 9pm.

Sunday, July 27

Pancake Breakfast at both rodeo grounds and Bruce Community Centre from 8-10am. Grand Parade on the streets of Bruce starting at 10am from the Community Centre.

Christian Cowboy Gospel Service at the rodeo grounds at 11am. CPRA Pro Rodeo starts at 1pm. $20 per person at the gate. Kids 12 and under FREE. FREE dry camping (no services) and FREE parking all Stampede weekend long! www.BruceStampede.com

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

Raspberries are ready!!!

Garden Vegetables ready!!! East of Sedgewick, off Highway 13, turn north on RR122, then go north 3 miles. Helen Tanton - 780-888-6800 28tfnc

CLASSIFIEDS

COMING EVENTS

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

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Wonder Junction Vacation Bible School - August 11-15 9AM - 11:45AM at Killam Baptist Church Children ages 5-12 years are invited to join us for games, snacks, singing, Bible stories, puppets and crafts! To register please call 780-385-3607

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Gathering of the Clans Highland Festival 2025 Sedgewick, Alberta at the Recreation Grounds Saturday, August 23 Gates open at 10 am. Heavy events, artisan vendors, demonstrators, pipes and drums, highland animals, kids zone, food trucks, and much more.

Evening entertainment starts at 5pm Dance with Cabot’s Crossing starts at 7pm. Overnight camping available and a donation breakfast Sunday morning. Advance gate admission and tickets to the Ceiliedh (dance) are available now at flagstaffscottishclub.com/gotchf-event

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 1-888676-9667 or email: visit@destinationosoyoos.com to request digital information on wintering in Osoyoos.

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

FOR RENT

Attention Edmonton Post Secondary Students: Newly renovated one bedroom basement suite in safe, quiet Sherwood Park neighborhood. Close to bus terminal with express bus to NAIT, Norquest, U. of A. & MacEwan.

Fully furnished and equipped with TV, air fryer, fridge, microwave, A/C, security system, central vac, etc. Including wifi, cable and utilitilies. Shared laundry and entrance. Street parking.

$1100/month $550 DD Call or Text Debbie 780-907-8209 28/29p

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 only.

$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

Open Daily 8 am - 8 pm

$10/ 4 litre pail 15217 Twp Rd. 492 Call/ text 780-893-5490

Trees for sale: Brian has the following for sale: Windbreak trees, poplars, disease resistant and fuzz free. AC Sundancer, fast-growing, 3 years old; Open leaf poplar, fastgrowing, 3 years old; Laurel leaf Willows, 2-16', 2-12', and 4-6' available. Cherry and Plum trees also available. Buyer’s responsibility to dig out all trees. Call Brian to make an appointment at 780-678-0053. Must be gone by Aug. 15

FOR SALE

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Raspberry and Strawberry plants for sale. Bare Root Only. Raspberries only on site, buyer to dig out. Strawberries, various varieties, $1 per bare root. Buyer to dig out OR potted and picked up at Daysland beside Pharmacy. (Should be planted as soon as dug). Call Brian to make arrangements at 780-678-0053.

BLACKTOF ANGUS FARMS

Offering quality Black Angus bulls, can be used on cows or heifers. Phone: 780-218-2081

TM27-29P

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Brian has the following miscellaneous items for sale, can be picked up beside Daysland Pharmacy Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11-2 or Saturday 11 to 1:30 if interested 780-678-0053 (Call to ensure availability). Apple Peeler, slightly used, $20; Starfrit Electric Knife, slightly used, $30; Starfrit Cherry Pitter, New, $25; Starfrit Jar lid lifter, New $2; Glass flower vase, $3; Vegetable chopper, New, $5, two black Wicker Chairs $20 for both.

2000 Doepker Super B Trailers

Tarp V.G./Brakes & S-Cams replaced. Also all Air Bags & Air Tanks (except 1) have been replaced. Asking $42,500. Call 780-385-2065. 28/29p

Not ready to let go of your freedom (but needing support)?

Baking. Cleaning. Yard Work. Gardening. Serving Viking-Sedgewick-KillamBruce-Hardisty-Irma. Call Jackie (780) 385-1019. 25/28c

PRICING

$20/wk for the first 35 words

45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers

16,000 readers

Town & Country Guardian Drugs - Killam

We have: •a colour photocopier.

•cold pop and fresh snacks.

•a great selection of giftware, houseware, fragrances, clothing, toys, games, plush animals and more. •a big selection of greeting cards. •stationery. •seasonal gifts •vitamins, minerals, supplements

•free gift wrapping •prescription service 6 days a week. ————————————————

General Contractor

Red Seal Journeyman Plumber and Gasfitter. Bathroom Renos & Tile

New to the Area.

30 plus Years of Experience. Dave 403-999-8464

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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**. TM27-32P

CLASSIFIEDS

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

Drywall Taping/Ceiling Texturing

Experienced Killam drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job, big or small. Don't want to do it yourself? Give me a call!

Flagstaff Taping & Texturing

Murray Cholowsky

Call or text at 780-385-1251

Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749

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

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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.

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.

WANTED

FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR

2025 AUCTION PROGRAM: Firearms, Ammunition, Accessories, or Militaria. Collections, Estates or single items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Contact us: 1-800-694-2609, Email: sales@switzersauction.com or Visit us @ www.switzersauction.com for Auction Dates & Details.

Crossword

KILLAM DENTURE CLINIC

Pre-Harvest East Central Machinery Consignment Auction

SATURDAY, JULY 26

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