The Community Press
Local women awarded with King Charles III Coronation Medals
Golden Prairie 4-H Members Celebrate Achievement Day
Golden Prairie 4-H Club celebrated its Achievement Day on Saturday, June 7, at the Forestburg Community Hall.
Golden Prairie is a true multi-club, and offers a wide variety of projects and activities. The club provides opportunities for youth from 9 to 20 to participate, while also fulfilling the 4-H motto,
‘Learn by Doing.’ Members showed off their projects, which included everything from Woodworking to small engines, welding, photography, busking, and more. One member showed off her dog training skills.
Club members also participate in traditional 4-H activities such as public speaking.
After lunch, member awards were presented.
LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTO
Golden Prairie 4-H Multi Club held their Achievement Day in Forestburg this past Saturday, June 7 at the Forestburg Community Hall. During the morning, members showed off the projects they’ve been working on all year, and the busking team performed a few numbers demonstrating their talents using a variety of props, including stilts, as shown opposite. See more photos INSIDE!
LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTOS
Battle River - Crowfoot MP Damien Kurek held a King Charles III Coronation Medal presentation ceremony on Wednesday, June 4, in Camrose, where Lynne Jenkinson, former FFCS Executive Director and Blanche Nelson of Hardisty were recognized. The ceremony recognized 12 individuals from around Battle River - Crowfoot, including former Daysland resident Kevin Gillespie, who was nominated by his father Jim Gillespie. See Full story INSIDE!
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
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Lots of changes for Killam’s Rodeo and parade route for this year’s events
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
This year marks a big change for both the Killam Annual Indoor Rodeo and Saturday morning’s parade.
For one thing, due to roof repairs at the Killam Memorial Arena, the rodeo portion has moved down the road to Sedgewick, taking advantage of the Sedgewick Ag. Society’s rodeo grounds being available and the Ag. Society’s members’ willingness to help out.
The Killam Ag. Society must host at least one agricultural event each year to maintain their status and funding, funding that is needed to maintain the Agriplex. There was also a real possibility that giving up the date with Lakeland Rodeo Association for one year might have led to losing it permanently, something the committee did not want to risk.
So for the evenings of Friday, June 13, and Saturday, June 14, the rodeo will go on, outdoors, in Sedgewick. The rodeo goes on Friday at 6:30 p.m. in Sedgewick, starting out with the Wild Horse Racing.
There will be free admission at the gates for students from Kindergarten to Grade 6. There will also be kid games at half time, and some free draws. There are also Beer Gardens and food on site.
Slack will run at 8 a.m. on Saturday, and the Sedgewick Lions Club will be hosting Rodeo breakfast from 8 to 10 a.m.
After that, the action moves over to Killam, where the parade will start at 11 a.m. Due to road construction, the route is slightly different this year, please see the map in this paper and make sure you don’t miss it!
The Killam Blacktop Bonanza then goes from noon to 4 p.m. with lots of great things to do on Main Street,
Highway 13
The 2025 Killam Parade will have a new route due to planned road repairs along the normal route on 50th Avenue, prompting organizers to plan a new route, as shown above. Parade start is 11 a.m. south of the Killam Hospital.
including the popular Euro-Bungee, inflatables, the mini train, a mini-Agri fair, entertainment stage, beer gardens, and vendors market. The Show ‘N Shine hosted by Campbell-McLennan also returns this year.
That evening, at 5:30, it’s back to Sedgewick for live rodeo action, with Mutton Busting at half time.
Also performing at the rodeo for the first time locally will be Rodeo Clown Tyson Wagner. Hailing
from St. Paul, Tyson has gone from a famed bull fighter of 15 years to being rodeo clown for the last decade.
There will be food on site in Sedgewick and a beer gardens both evenings.
Weather permitting, this weekend promises to bring a new twist to a favoured event for residents of both towns and the rest of Flagstaff County.
OPINION
Neighbours helping neighbours a wonderful thing
It’s no secret that relations between Killam and Sedgewick residents haven’t always been quite as friendly as one would hope.
For years, decades even, there was a rivalry between the two towns that likely should have been dropped many years ago, but for some perverse reason continues in a lesser fashion today.
One would think that combining the two town’s minor hockey into one organization a few years ago would have been the biggest catalyst to letting sleeping dogs lie, but for some, that’s harder than others.
For that reason it’s so outstanding to see how the two have combined forces this year to help keep the Killam Rodeo running.
Former Flagstaff County Reeve the late Gerald Kuefler referred to Flagstaff County unfailingly as ‘a community of communities.’
He said that was our strength, and what made us unique. Instead of fighting among each other, we instead cooperated and made the most of our individual strengths. Not just Killam and Sedgewick, but that included the rest of our communities as well.
Lately I’m wondering if we’re forgetting that connection.
When I look around at other areas in the province, very few share the cordial, mutually beneficial relationships that our nine municipalities, including Flagstaff County, share. There are multiple shared projects ongoing between our different municipal governments, and over the years we’ve created remarkable partnerships that have forged FFCS, Flagstaff Waste, FRESS, Flagstaff Regional Housing Group, the Flagstaff Healthcare Attraction and Retention Committee, and more.
Other communities do not have the level of cooperation between different municipal governments as we have, and they are significantly poorer for it.
Not financially, necessarily, although that is a factor. What we have by working together and getting along is that we make the most of the resources we have. We don’t waste time and money and volunteer resources duplicating services. What we lack, they have; what we have, they lack.
We use that to build a strong region, while also building strong, connected communities.
It’s easy to forget that, and operate in a silo, but we lose so much when we stop working together.
Together, our resources and amenities rival those of much bigger centres, and that’s what makes us unique, and such a great place to live.
Instead of every municipality trying to be all things to all people, we instead work together to make our region stronger as a whole.
What’s good for Daysland is good for Forestburg. What’s good for Killam is good for Sedgewick. What’s good for Lougheed is good for Hardisty. It goes on and on and on.
Whatever the outcome of this year’s municipal elections, I urge anyone considering running for Council to keep this in mind, and keep moving forward, not backwards into the dark ages.
LESLIE CHOLOWSKY
Alberta T0B 4C0 Phone 780-385-6693
E-mail: (Advertising): production.cp@gmail.com, (News): newsroom.cp@gmail.com
News from the Legislature Jackie Lovely MLA
for Camrose Constituency
This week our government took a major step forward in strengthening and modernizing our health care system. I am proud to share that three newly established provincial health corporations Cancer Care Alberta, Give Life Alberta, and the new provincial corporation for Emergency Health Services (EHS), have now become officially legal entities in the province of Alberta. This marks a positive and transformative change that places deeper focus and greater accountability on three critical areas of care for Albertans.
Our government has been hard at work refocusing the health care system to deliver better outcomes and more responsive services for every patient. With the creation of these three specialized organizations, we are ensuring that cancer care, organ and tissue donation and transplantation, and emergency health services each receive the attention, resources, and oversight they need to thrive in this province.
Cancer Care Alberta will now focus exclusively on providing high-quality cancer treatment and services across the province. With enhanced oversight of its workforce, capital planning, and operational funding, this dedicated organization will be able to better meet the needs of patients and families facing a cancer diagnosis. A new complaints process will also be implemented to ensure transparency and improve patient experience.
Meanwhile, Give Life Alberta has been established to lead all organ and tissue donation and transplantation services in the province. This new body will help streamline the processes, increase service delivery, and support the ongoing innovation and development in this life-saving field. It’s important to note that while Give Life Alberta will provide leadership and planning, clinical services will remain under the management of Alberta Health Services (AHS).
Our third new health corporation will be exclusively responsible for emergency health services in Alberta. From response times and paramedic recruitment to service coordination, this new organization will ensure Albertans get the emergency care they need and when they need it. Our government is actively working with frontline paramedics and emergency service staff to co-develop a name and logo that reflects their vital work and commitment.
All three of these new organizations will fall under Acute Care Alberta, which will ensure a seamless and fully integrated health system. This approach provides continuity and efficiency while allowing each specialized corporation the independence to focus on their area of care.
It’s also important to highlight that there has been no impact to frontline health care workers because of these changes. The dedicated professionals who provide life-saving care day in and day out will continue to do so with the same skill and compassion Albertans have come to rely on.
This is an exciting time for health care in our province. By creating specialized, focused organizations, our government is delivering on its promise to modernize the health care system and improve services for all Albertans. I look forward to seeing the continued positive outcomes these changes will bring to patients and families in the Camrose constituency and across Alberta.
Jackie Lovely - MLA for Camrose Constituency, #104, 4870 51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1, Tel: 780-672-0000
Email: camrose@assembly.ab.ca. Fax: 780-672-6945.
Men’s baseball powering ahead in both leagues
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
In Powerline Baseball League action last week the Rivals travelled to Vegreville on Tuesday, June 3, where they beat the Blue Jays 2-1. Also on Tuesday, the Rosalind Athletics hosted Armena, where they beat the Royals 14-3.
On Thursday, June 5, the Ri-
vals hosted the Athletics in Daysland, where Rosalind came away with a 4-1 win.
On Sunday, Rosalind hosted Vegreville, coming away this time with a 9-1 win in the first of a double header, winning the second game 7-4.
The Rivals were set to play Armena in Armena on Tuesday, June 10, then on Wednesday, June 11, Armena will
travel to Daysland for back-toback games with a 7 p.m. start.
Thursday will see Rosalind travelling to Tofield to take on the Braves, and Saturday will see the Rivals host the Camrose Roadrunners in a 6 p.m. game.
On Sunday, Rosalind will host Tofield in a 5 p.m. game.
Rosalind has played nine games, with seven wins and two losses, while the Rivals
have played five games with four wins and one loss. Armena has played six games with four wins and two losses, Camrose just three games, with a win and two losses, Vegreville is sitting at seven games with two wins and five losses, and Tofield has played six games, still looking for their first win on the season.
In Battle River Baseball
League action, Killam travelled to Czar, with a 13-1 loss. Amisk is sitting at one win and two losses, Czar is tied, also with a win and two losses, and Killam is still looking for their first win, with three losses overall for this young team. This week Killam will travel to Castor looking for a win and Czar heads to Amisk to break that tie.
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Seniors Centre hosts bridal shower Hardisty bride-to-be
Well hello folks. June is always such a busy month for all ages.
The students in public schools are getting so excited for Field /Sports day, etc.
Do you remember those days? There were always the sports jocks who aced at all sports. They could run like the wind, jump so high and others could hit the ball way out in the far field and manage a home run. Wow!
Then there was the tall, quiet girl who hardly spoke and you wondered what the heck she could do that was even remotely sporty, Hmmm?
She walked off wearing a big, red, first-place ribbon. She was amazing. I was pretty good at running and jumping far into the sand pit. That was my big accomplishment. I was so grateful when my balance hurled me forwards and not backwards and landing on my butt.
Can you all recall what you loved best about Sports or Field day? For some kids the excitement was all about the table with all the yummy snacks that all the moms would bring. No one brought low fat, peanut-free, sugarfree anything. Plus, we had never ending jugs of a sugar drink called Kool Aid. Oh, it was full of cups of real sugar. None of this partially sweetened, or sugarless so-
Well, she shocked all of us by stretching those long, gangly legs and effortlessly sailing over the highest level on the high jump. She didn’t even shake the long pole. She just stood up, shook her long hair and gave us all a smile.
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Alberta Health Services announced Wednesday that due to a gap in coverage, the Hardisty Health Centre’s Emergency Department will be temporarily closed from 5 p.m. on Monday, June 16 to 7 a.m. on Wednesday, June 25.
AHS says that during the temporary closure nursing staff will remain in the deparmtent during the emergency department’s regular hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to support any patients arriving at the site.
“Staff will assess patients and provide care where appropriate. Depending on their condition, patients may be referred to other facilities in surround communities, including Killam and Wainwright.”
Patients are asked to call 911 if they have a medical emergency. Residents are reminded to call Health Link at 811, which is available 24/7 for non-emergency health-related questions. Individuals re-
called healthy drinks. No sports drinks or Gatorade. You guzzled all that colour-treated, full-sugar fluid with a big smile and the sweat was running down your back and face.
You were happy, dirty faced and in heaven. Were you reapplying 50plus sunscreen on your face arms and legs. heck no! You were too busy enjoying your youth because summer holidays were starting in a couple of days. School’s out! Yippee!
I hope you know that all those healthy things that I mentioned and were rarely done are now truly a part of a healthy lifestyle. So stay smart and take good care of your young, middleaged, or elderly bodies. So good luck with your bodies and hope your parents came from good genes and you are benefitting or that you have a really smart, persuasive
quiring non-emergency medical care are also encouraged to call their family physician.
Other services at the Hardisty Health Centre
are not impacted by this temporary closure. If coverage is secured, ED service will be restored, and the community will be notified.
doctor. Happy summer to all of you.
On Sunday the Seniors Centre had a lovely bridal shower for Isabella Fleming. She is the granddaughter of Gail and Larry Kobitzsch and daughter of the late Colleen Drager and step dad, Evan Drager. Isabella’s sister Madelaine, Niki, and two daughters and Grandma Gail decorated the hall with tablecloths and real china cups and saucers, yummy dainties and festive decorations.
Thirty guests arrived to enjoy the festivities including some out of town guests, Carol and Tricia Reid and Lynette and Nancy Sandbrook. Isabella thanked all her guests for the lovely gifts on behalf of her and her husband-to-be, Andrew. The love birds will be getting married in our newly renovated Bird Dog Theatre on Main Street. She will then be-
AHS says it is grateful for the support of staff and physicians who have helped minimize this temporary disruption as much as possible.
come “Mrs. Robbins.”
Congratulations on your upcoming nuptials, Bella and Andrew.
I have some interesting information on firefighters and their job description etc. but I will get that out to you next week. I do not have enough space.
Have a great week folks. If you enjoy a
smoke please do not throw it out the window and possibly start a fire. These winds can change a little flame into a raging fire. The home that is lost could be yours. Now where will you go? Take care and please call me with your news. Thank you. (My phone number is under my picture in the column.)
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MP Damien Kurek awards King Charles III Coronation medals
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Battle River - Crowfoot Member of Parliament Damien Kurek said that he received over 100 nominations for the 20 King Charles III Coronation medals he received for his constituents - so many that he went back to the Governor General’s office and asked for more, receiving another six medals.
Kurek says going through the applications to choose 26 recipients was a harrowing task, and each seemed as deserving as the next.
“In that process, it showed truly what the best of this region is. In King Charles’ commendation to those who would be choosing who the medal would be awarded to, it said exceptional service to your region, your province, and country, and that metric is what ultimately led - community driven, to the nomination process leading to the individuals being chosen.”
Kurek added that he thought it was exceptionally fitting that just over a week ago, King Charles III was in Canada to open the sitting of the 45th Parliament. He said he’d had the opportunity to be in the Senate Chamber, to welcome the King. “He talked in large part about the connection that as a consitutional monarchy that we have. It’s not about individuals, but it’s about service to the nation. I think that’s a lesson we can take, and one that hopefully inspires the whole nation in that process.
“What I hope you’ll take away from
my remarks is that these individuals, 12 of them who are being recognized today, they show the best of not just their accomplishments, but it’s what they do for our communities and the way that they serve.
“What has been an incredible part of this, ironically, there was a number of people, who when we let them know they’ve been granted the honour, they asked, ‘Isn’t there someone more fitting?’”
When the 26 were chosen, Kurek scheduled three ceremonies, one in Wainwright, one in Camrose, and one in Drumheller, to present the medals.
The Camrose ceremony was held Wednesday, June 4 at the Royal Canadian Legion there, where 12 recipients were honoured.
They included former FFCS Executive Director Lynne Jenkinson and Hardisty Legion member Blanche Nelson, as well as Daysland Legion Branch member Kevin Gillespie.
Also receiving medals in Camrose were Blain Fowler of Camrose, Dawn Hodgins of Viking, Sherry Kroeger of Consort, Michael Kuster of Camrose, Mary Lien of Ryley, Norm Mayer of Camrose, Charles McBurney of Beaver County, Erhard Pinno of Camrose, and Leona Thorogood of Stettler.
Kurek said that the medal presentations were late, that nominations had taken place just over a year ago and the award ceremonies were supposed to have taken place by the end of March 2025. He said with the federal election, however, there has been no opportunity to hold the presentation ceremonies until now. He said he had
received special permission to hold these events while parliament was sitting, with one planned for Wainwright and another in Drumheller.
Kurek said, “It is the dedication and passion of the 12 individuals we are recognizing today that make this region such an incredible place to live, work, and call home.”
He added, “Something that is an incredible part of a large rural riding like Battle River - Crowfoot is the people, and I found it very very fitting that we have 26 people in BR-C who have received this honour.
“For you all to be here to celebrate 12 of those 26 today is an incredible testament to the strength of rural, and the strength of community, and it is an honour, on behalf of the Parliament of Canada, and the people of Battle River - Crowfoot to be able to welcome you all here for this distinguished event.”
As each individual was called forward, Kurek read part of their biographies from their nominations.
When Kurek called Lynne Jenkinson as one of those being honoured, he said, “Lynne is honoured for her exceptional leadership and dedication to her community development, and commitment to public service. As the executive director of Flagstaff Family and Community Services, starting that role in 2011, she successfully secured and managed critical government funding to support local programs and services in the region. Her active roles on the board of FIRST and the Flagstaff Food Bank where she served as secretary and lead
fundraiser, demonstrated her tireless advocacy for vulnerable populations. Lynne’s deep understanding of services at all levels of government ensures that residents across the region receive the support they need. Her passion for building strong, healthy communities, mentally and physically and holistically make her a model of civic responsibility showing her eligibility for this honour.
“Lynne, on behalf of Parliament of Canada and the people of Battle River Crowfoot, it is my honour to present this medal to you in recognition of your service with deep gratitude and respect.”
Blanche Nelson of Hardisty was also recognized Wednesday. Kurek said, “Blanche Nelson - In recognition of her outstanding dedication to public service. Blanche has been a pillar in the Town of Hardisty and Flagstaff County. Her contributions include a decade of service on the Victim Services Board, meaningful work in support of local law enforcement, and 30 years with the Hardisty Fire and Rescue Department.
“A devoted member of the Royal Canadian Legion for 47 years, she has consistently demonstrated leadership, compassion, and a deep committment to her community.
“Her lifelong service reflects the highest ideals of citizenship and volunteerism. So Blanche, on behalf of the Parliament of Canada and the people of Battle River - Crowfoot it is my honour to present this medal to you in recognition of your service, with gratitude and respect.”
Battle River - Crowfoot MP Damien Kurek held a King Charles III Coronation Medal presentation ceremony on Wednesday, June 4 in Camrose, where Lynne Jenkinson, former FFCS Executive Director, and Blanche Nelson of Hardisty were recognized. The ceremony recognized 12 individuals from around Battle River - Crowfoot, including former Daysland resident Kevin Gillespie, who was nominated by his father Jim Gillespie, also a long-time and distinguished Daysland Legion branch member. Above from left: Michael Kuster, Erhard Pinno, Charles McBurney, Lynne Jenkinson, Blanche Nelson, Norm Mayer, Dawn Hodgins, Jewel Lien, MP Damien Kurek, Recipient Leona Thorogood’s daughter Chantelle Schwenk, Blain Fowler, Sherry Kroeger, and Kevin Gillespie.
Alliance to host ‘Movie in the Park’ for first time
Diane Dammann Alliance
The Legion members enjoyed a lovely steak dinner after a short meeting on Thursday. It is a tradition to have the June meeting followed by a steak dinner. Bill McPherson is the master of the grill. The steaks were delicious, the potatoes, salad, beans and desserts were awesome too.
The Legion sponsored an ad for the upcoming Movie in the Park which will be held in Alliance in August. They also do-
nated to the museum for their new roof.
Ryan Spady was home for a weekend to help with some fencing at the ranch. Ryan and his family live on Vancouver Island.
For Seniors week, FFCS had coffee and cake at the office in Killam so I stopped in. Donna Coombs had a chat with me. She comes to Alliance the first and third Wednesday of the month and she would like to see more seniors. She has the meeting room at the Rec Center where she can help seniors access services, fill out forms, learn about programs.
Donna had facilitated a few Scam Prevention
Workshops that I have participated in. She is good.
I went to Jaywalkers Jamboree on Saturday in Camrose. Lawrence and Audrey Dammann stopped by for a chat. Dale and Betty Stoner brought Ron and Donna Steier along with them. Donna is Betty’s sister. The Steier’s are visiting for a few days while Dale is home.
Dale was evacuated from his job because of the wildfires.
Neil and Lilyon Lunty who now live in Camrose stopped by the Friends of Battle River Railway booth while I was working. The wind was ferocious all morning. I had to hang on
to every piece of paper and brochure, set up the schedule sign a dozen times, and weigh down the table covering.
Libby Whittall and her son Jordan (I think) stopped for a visit.
Libby was our Library Manager when I first went on the board a few years ago.
The Mini Donut trailer was across the street so I stopped to check if it was Janie Klassen nee Heidebrecht. It was, so I checked up on the girls.
Naomi is a piano teacher in Edmonton, Tina works for a car dealership, and Alanna is a bus driver in Sherwood Park. Norman is doing well.
Sedgewick gearing up to host rodeo this weekend
sedgewicknews@gmail.com
Congratulations to Terri Link. She has been teaching at the Killam Playschool for 25 years!
That’s quite the commitment. Terri has also been the playschool teacher for Sedgewick until recently, however not quite as many years. Maybe close to 20.
Little learners in Sedgewick and Killam are thankful to experience her love and expertise!
With a couple grandkids to spoil now, she’s taking a step back and will only be teaching in Killam going forward.
The Sedgewick Ag. society members have been hard at work getting the rodeo grounds ready.
Sedgewick will be hosting the Rodeo this upcoming weekend. If you are looking for something to do, the Sedgewick Ag society would love to have some help tending the beer gardens for this upcoming rodeo. Sign up with Christie Rose if you’re free!
Sedgewick and Lougheed libraries are running another summer reading club. Sedgewick will be on Tuesday afternoons, Lougheed on Wednesdays. Sign up for Barb now to ensure they have enough kids to run.
The Sedgewick Library
is currently hosting an online auction. They are raising funds for operational costs as well as ongoing programming.
Sad news out of Killam. Crafty Creations is closing its doors for good. They are having a giant sale. Be sure to stop in before they close permanently at the end of the first week in July.
Sedgewick is gearing up
for Canada Day long weekend. It’s always a family favourite! Be sure to see all that Sedgewick has to offer all weekend long in their ad in this paper.
Sedgewick Lake Park is offering their first ever family fun day this July including scavenger hunt, hot dog lunch, pool time and lawn games all day long. It sounds like the
perfect day to kick off summer break!
And if you haven’t noticed yet, the gas station outside Sedgewick, formerly owned by Sue, has upgraded their pumps recently. They are now a Canco gas station with a points card available as well. We are happy to see the new owners invest in the business and the community.
HELP WANTED
Summer Student Reporter
The Community Press is currently seeking a Student Reporter to work Thursday, Friday, Monday, and possibly some weekends as required beginning sometime in June until the end of August.
Duties will include taking pictures of local happenings during the summer, learning to edit those photos, writing 3 to 6 local news stories per week, and some light office work as required including greeting and helping customers, answering phones, or running the photocopier.
The successful candidate would preferably have their driver’s license and own vehicle, be a local Grade 11 or 12 student or a college student home for the summer. No previous experience required, but must have general knowledge of the english language and writing. Candidate must be extremely friendly and courteous while representing our company, and comfortable talking to others in person or over the phone (some stories require follow-up and quotes via phone).
This is a temporary summer position. However, for the right individual, we may consider continuing the position as they attend school (logistially, this likely only applies to candidates currently attending high school).
Please apply via email to: The Community Press Email newsroom.cp@gmail.com or in person to Leslie at 4919 – 50 St. Killam, AB T0B 2L0
What is more fun than meeting new friends? nothing! Nicole Proulx, Gioia Sallustio, Anne Marie Dochesneme, Lucie Blanchette, and Lise Foster, all friends of Odette Dionne, came to spend the weekend in Alliance.
Rose Marie Wickstrom, Roseann Bauman and I met them for tea in the WI meeting room on Saturday. They arrived much later than planned due to Google Maps giving them a tour of gravel roads. The group attended the 100th Anniversary Celebration at the Castor United Church along with most of the Alliance congregation.
They will tour the museum and do a project at the quilt shop.
It was a lovely service in Knox United Church in Castor attended by congregations from Alliance, Coronation, and Forestburg. It included a history
of the joining of the three denominations, Methodist, Congregational, and Presbyterian, a baptism and two confirmations, then communion. Of course, there was a lunch afterwards.
On June 10, 1925, three lines, one from each of the churches, marched into an arena in Toronto to mingle and form the United Church of Canada. There were 8,000 in attendance 100 years ago.
On June 1, 1925, a contract was awarded to G.J.. Robinson to erect a full cement basement with a roof for the Alliance Union Church.
On Sunday, August 9, 1925, the opening service of the United Church of Canada in Alliance was conducted by Rev. Thomas Powell of Calgary. The congregation numbered 173.
Killam & Sedgewick
Killam Indoor
FRIDAY JUNE 13
7:30-11 AM BREAKFAST & 11:30AM - 2PM BBQ at Campbell McLennan Chrysler in Killam 6:30PM RODEO
PERFORMANCE in Sedgewick starting with Wild Horse Racing
FREE admission for students K-6
Kid games at half-time and free draws Entry $15/adult
Performing for the first time locally Rodeo Clown - Tyson Wagner
SATURDAY
JUNE 14
8AM RODEO SLACK 8-10AM BREAKFAST at the Rodeo grounds by Sedgewick Lions Club 11AM PARADE in Killam 12 - 4 PM Blacktop Bonanza Street Fair Killam Main Street 5:30PM RODEO PERFORMANCE in Sedgewick starting with Wild Horse Racing Mutton busting at half-time with the first kids at the chutes getting to ride - PM
Call to register: 780-385-2121 1st Place Winner: $100 cash + trophy Register at Campbell-McLennan in Killam between 9-9:45 am or on main street after the Parade. Parade starts at 11 am. Registration min. $10 donation. All proceeds donated to Flagstaff Food Bank. All donations are accepted and greatly appreciated.
Last year's winner Scott Peacock L
Note: Event will be dependent on good weather.
Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
2025 Flagstaff District 4-H Beef clubs
Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
grand champion steer abby
Lane Jackson Dill’s Plumbing and Heating
Wyatt Jackson Derek Sutter and Rick Kendall
Grace Dolany J. Rosiechuk Trucking
Jake Grant Forstar Farms Ltd. & Joanne & Andrew Kittle
Isla MacKinnon Hilltop Corral Cleaning Ltd
Kate MacKinnon Guardian Drugs - Killam
Brianna Martin Colin and Jess Rosiechuk
Phoenix McRae-Younger Younger’s Inspection Services
Claudia Ehnes Campbell-McLennan Chrysler
Avery Dolany Chase & Baillie Schatschneider
Katie Grant Bullee Farm & Ranch
Reid MacKinnon Terry & Ellie Hamilton
Porter Martin Iron Creek Veterinary Hospital
Rylan Martin Kris and Melissa Oberg
Jayde Niehaus TradeMark Welding Ltd.
George Rosiechuk Wallace Vac
Max Kuefler 1831216 Alberta LTD
Liam Volk Judy Oberg
Kasey Adams Badry Farms
Lukas Strauss Spin Pro Machining
Jax Strauss Future Ag Stettler
Trenton Volk Coutts Home Hardware
Ambrose Kroetsch Viking Tree Movers
Ada Koretsch DAM International Inc.
Wyatt Morken Happy’s Oilfield Services Ltd
Paige Zimmer Wallace Enterprises Ltd
Erika Zimmer Best Farming
Garrett Ruzicka Hilltop Corral Cleaning Ltd
Darian Ruzicka Janice Lindseth & Rose Hill Percherons
Grace Vanderkooi EROCK Cattle Co
Liam Vanderkooi Terry & Shelly Brodie
Duncan Kueber Kevin & Darlene Sorenson
Sara Jane Ruzicka Maxwell Simmentals
Abby Rancier Davis Rairdan Embryo Transfer
Auna-Lee Stevenson Mill Iron Livestock
Jesse Nichols RMS Electrical Services
Aleah Klatt Alex Terietstap
David Ruzicka A-1 Custom Applicators Ltd.
Ally Vanderkooi Randy & Marilyn Lewis
Kade Rancier Big Dawgs Equipment Ltd.
Harley-Rey Stevenson Kyle & Triscilla Freadrich
The Iron Creek 4-H Beef Club held the STARS raffle this year. The total raised was $12,550, through the raffle, cash donations, and flower auction at the sale. Thanks for your donations and support of this initiative!
ank you you Thank you
ank you you Thank you
ankyouThankyouThankyouThankyou
ank you you Thank you
ank you you Thank you
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
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grand champion female duncan kueber reserve
ank you Thank you Thank you
Stevenson reserve champion FEMALE k you Thank you Tha KADE
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Iron Creek
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Grand Champion Carcass-Sedgewick Ag. Society Claire Stefanishion - Wavy Lake
Reserve Champion Carcass-RedRich Farms Lane Stefanishion - Wavy Lake
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
CLUB CHAMPION FEMALES:
Iron Creek-Lougheed Ag. Society Duncan Kueber
Battle River-Hay’s Farms Reid MacKinnon Wavy Lake-Jay’s Mechanical Paige Zimmer
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Hastings Coulee-BBK Farms Kasey Adams
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CLUB RESERVE CHAMPION FEMALES: Hastings Coulee-Ter-Ron Farms Liam Volk
Wavy Lake-Bry-Ann Farms Erika Zimmer
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Battle River-Badry Farms Inc. Kate MacKinnon
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Iron Creek-Viking Auction Market Kade Rancier
CLUB CHAMPION STEER: Iron Creek-Guardian Drugs Abby Rancier
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Battle River-Rosiechuk Farms Grace Dolany
Wavy Lake-DAM International Paige Zimmer
Hastings Coulee-Robert/Char Curtis Kasey Adams
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
CLUB RESERVE CHAMPION STEER:
Iron Creek-Hardisty Ag. Society Duncan Kueber
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Battle River-Hardisty Ag. Society Jake Grant
Wavy Lake-Hardisty Ag. Society Erika Zimmer
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Hastings Coulee-Hardisty Ag. Society Lukas Strauss
Senior Showmanship-Derek/Char Sutter Kasey Adams- Hastings Coulee
Intermediate Showmanship-Raymond Arntzen Dayna Ruzicka- Iron Creek
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Junior Showmanship-Murray/Jolie Dolany Darian Ruzicka-Iron Creek
Senior Grooming-Hilltop Corral Cleaning Kasey Adams - Hastings Coulee
Intermediate Grooming-Strome Ag. Soc. Abby Rancier - Iron Creek
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Junior Grooming-Barnes Farm Co. Liam Vanderkooi - Iron Creek
Senior Judging-Agriterra Lougheed Kade Rancier - Iron Creek
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Intermediate Judging-Carol Arntzen Abby Rancier - Iron Creek
Junior Judging-Killam ATB Lane Jackson - Battle River
Senior Record Keeping-Terry/Shelly Brodie Ally Vanderkooi - Iron Creek
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Int. Record Keeping-Agriterra Lougheed Jesse Nichols - Iron Creek
Junior Record Keeping-Sedgewick Ag. Soc. Liam Vanderkooi - Iron Creek
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Herd Class-Lakeford Herefords Sara Jane Ruzicka - Iron Creek
Rate of Gain-Flagstaff County Wyatt Jackson - Battle River
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CLUB RATE OF GAIN: Iron Creek-Alliance Seed Cleaning Assoc. Auna-Lee Stevenson
Battle River-Heisler General Store Wyatt Jackson
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Wavy Lake-Double Z Meats Ambrose Kroetsch
Hastings Coulee-Forestburg Meats Jax Strauss
ank you Thank you Thank you Thank you
Group of Five-Strauss Farms- Iron Creek
Top Hand Award-Rancier Farms David Ruzicka - Iron Creek
Cleavers’ Sponsor - Wallace Enterprises Ltd.
Grand Champion Steer-Jess & Colin Rosiechuk Abby Rancier - Iron Creek Reserve Champion Steer-Prairie Skye Farms Auna-Lee Stevenson - Iron Creek Grand Champion Female-Vision Credit Union Duncan Kueber - Iron Creek Reserve Champion Female-Ruzicka Farms Kade Rancier -
June 29 to July 1st
Sedgewick Joyeuse féte du Canada
Alberta Pony CHUCKWAGON & CHARIOT RACING
Sunday, June 29 at 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 30 at 6:30 p.m.
Canada Day Tuesday, July 1 at 2 p.m.
Pancake breakfast Sunday morning June 29th 8-11am at the Ag Grounds
HEAVY HORSE PULL TUESDAY, JULY 1 AT NOON
NEW!! LAWNMOWER DEMOLITION DERBY! RUNS JUNE 30 AFTER THE RACES! CALL TRAVIS 780-385-1127 TO ENTER!
NEW!! SLO-PITCH TOURNEY JULY 1ST CONTACT JANINE 780-385-1665
START YOUR DAY WITH A PANCAKE BREAKFAST 8-10 AM AT THE COMMUNITY HALL ADULTS $10 5-13 $5 UNDER 5 FREE CANADA DAY PARADE (line up at 10 a.m.)
BEER GARDENS OPEN ALL THREE DAYS MEN’S & MINOR BALL GAMES KIDS ACTIVITIES (BOUNCY HOUSES, MONEY PIT & MORE!) ROAST BEEF SUPPER AT THE ARENA FROM 5 TO 7 P.M. ADULTS $20, 5-13 $10, UNDER 5 FREE Fireworks at 11 p.m.
Sponsored by Vision Credit Union, Town of Sedgewick, and the Sedgewick Ag. Society Admission to Fair Grounds $10/day 12 & Under - Free
JANZEN PHOTOS
Over 70 junior high students from 12 schools across Battle River School Division (BRSD) met at the Tofield Golf Course on Monday, June 9 to participate in the annual Battle River Regional Junior High Athletic Association (BRRJHAA) championship golf tournament. Above: Tofield School student and Tofield Golf Course employee Dawson McPhee, top female of the tournament, Brittyn Delowsky of Killam, who won first with a score of 51, and Tofield School teacher Gilles Daigle. Below: The Flagstaff team, consisting of Killam and Daysland students, from left: Ryley Zimmer, Layne Zimmer, Tyson Hogman, and Kasey Miller.
Clara Marie DesRoches (Barriault)
Clara Marie DesRoches, née Barriault, of Forestburg, Alberta was born on June 12, 1938, in PEI and passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, at the Daysland Health Centre.
Clara leaves to mourn her 5 children Hélène
(Troy), Connie (Dan), Bernice, Danny (Francine) and Patsy, 12 grandchildren, 28 greatgrandchildren, and five brothers and their families, as well as her Big Knife Villa family.
She was pre-deceased by her husband Andy, of 65 years, her parents, her sister, and two brothers.
Clara was an active member of her community as well as the CWL. Always willing to lend a hand where needed.
A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Martin’s Catholic Church, Heisler
on June 19, 2025, at 1 p.m. Lunch will follow the Inurnment at the Heisler Community Centre, prepared by the St. Martin’s CWL.
Donations can be made to St. Martin’s Catholic Church building maintenance fund.
Arrangements by Fee and Sons Funeral Home and Crematorium Killam
Helping families and their Communities for over 100 years feeandsonsfuneralhome.com
KARI
PRICING
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
FUNDRAISER
Chemo Care Hydration Packages. $55 buys one and Sonya donates one. Includes: Night Cream, Lip Balm and Foot Lotion. The goal is 300 pkgs by June 30. See Sonya Martens at the Tofield Market Friday, June 13th and June 27th. www.MaryKay.ca/smartens or call 780-240-4605. TM23P
CARD OF THANKS
We would like to thank our family and friends for help we received, calls, texts, emails, visits, flowers, food, and donations in his memory after the passing of my brother, Larry. Our community is so compassionate and caring and we are so thankful to be a part of it. I also know that Larry was very thankful to many people who came to his aid and helped in any way when he struggled with mobility issues. He would always tell me when someone had helped him with groceries, shoveling, and moving around on his walker. Thank you for your thoughtfulness!
Richard and Marlus Larson and family.
COMING EVENTS
Crafty Creations Killam
FINAL CLOSING OUT SALE
All stock except handmade goods40% off, Fabric bolts - whole bolt 50% off. Display cases also for sale. 23/24c
Soup & Sandwich
Please join us on Thursday, June 19th 11 am - 1 pm $12/ person
Lunch includes Soup -Sandwich -Dessert Tea/Coffee Tofield Golden Club 5004 -54 Ave, Tofield, AB TM23C
Merna Church Service, Sunday, June 22 at 10:30 a.m. Pot luck lunch after the service. Everyone welcome. Bring lawn chairs. 23/24p
St. Peter's Annual Church Cleanup, Monday, June 23/25 at 9 a.m. Potluck meal after, meat provided.
St. Peter's Mass and Blessing of Graves Sunday, June 29/25 at 2 p.m. Everyone Welcome. 23/24p
CLASSIFIEDS
NOTICES. EVENTS. ANNOUNCEMENTS. THANKS. MEMORIALS. SALES. RENTALS. REAL ESTATE. GIVE AWAYS. & MORE!
COMING EVENTS
Lornedale Cemetery 2025 AGM will be on Saturday, June 21st at 1pm. This is our first NO WORK get-together and we encourage everyone involved with Lornedale Cemetery to attend. A Hot Dog Lunch will be supplied. Bring your own lawn chair if you wish. 23/24p
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Daysland Cemetery Cleanup Day, Tuesday, June 17 at 1:00, weather permitting. Alternate day is Thursday, June 19. Volunteers are asked to bring rakes, spades, crowbars, etc. Coffee & snacks will be provided. For info contact Dave Hanrahan. 780-374-2220 22/23c
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Mark, MJ, and Staff are celebrating the 10TH ANNIVERSARY of Daysland Pharmacy as owners!
Customer Appreciation Day Wednesday, June 18 11 am – 2 pm
Stop by for FREE Pork on a Bun. Sidewalk Sale! In-Store Draws! Main Street Daysland, Alberta.
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DIPLOMAT MINE INTERPRETIVE SITE VISITORS DAY
SUNDAY JUNE 15, 2025 11 am - 3 pm
Shovels on display open for tours Lunch available Located just north of Big Knife Provincial Park On highway 855 21/22c
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Building Bridges in Flagstaff Society (formerly Flagstaff Victim Services Society) Annual General Meeting Monday, June 16 at 6:30pm at FFCS office in Killam
If you would like to join the meeting, please message us at flagstaffbridges@gmail.com Public Welcome to Attend.
21/23c
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BRUCE COMMUNITY WIDE
GARAGE SALE INCLUDING TWO ON 857. ONE NE CORNER OF HWY 14 AND 857 THE OTHER 5 MILES NORTH ON 857 TO RGE RD 150.
SATURDAY JUNE 14TH 9 TO 5
SUNDAY JUNE 15TH 9 TO 3 23c
COMING EVENTS
Don’t forget Rodeo Weekend in Killam and Sedgewick! Annual Killam Rodeo is outdoors in Sedgewick this year due to arena construction. Friday, June 13
Breakfast 7:30-11am BBQ 11:30am-2pm in Killam at Campbell-McLennan Rodeo starts 6:30 pm at Sedgewick Rec grounds Saturday, June 14: Rodeo Slack 8am Sedgewick Rec Gorunds Breakfast hosted by Sedgewick Lions 8-10am at Sedgewick Rec Grounds. Parade in Killam at 11am
Black Top Bonanza Street Fair 12-4 pm Main Street Killam. Food, Beer Gardens, Kids Activities! Campbell Show ‘N Shine in Killam on Main Street during Street Fair Call 780-385-2121 to register your vehicle. Cash prize. Rodeo Performance 5:30 pm at Sedgewick Rec Grounds. Food Trucks and Beer Gardens in Sedgewick during rodeo. Come support both towns with one unforgettable weekend! More info appears in this paper.
Pancake Breakfast Saturday, June 14 at the Ek's Hall in Hardisty. Breakfast 8-10 am. Age 6 and under free. Age 7 and up is $10/plate.
We also hope to have plants and baking to sell. Also Hardisty town-wide Garage Sale. Call 780-888-2266 or 888-3504 to register a garage sale. Cost $10 to register your garage sale and have it on the list/map.
Golden Valley Lutheran Women’s Group invite women of our community to a presentation by Shanna These, who recently travelled to the Amazon as part of a Mission Trip with Kindness In Action. Kindness In Action (KIA) provides dental services in developing countries where access is limited. There will be a short time for questions.Cake and refreshments will be served after the presentation We are asking for a free-will offering, with all proceeds going to Kindness In Action to help fund their future dental mission trips. The presentation will be Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 7:00pm at Golden Valley Lutheran Church. All women are welcome. 21/23c
COMING EVENTS
Wedding Shower
Neighbours and friends are invited to join us for a wedding shower for Vanessa Baer and Billy Robinson on Saturday, June 21 @ 2:00 pm Viking United Church basement. 23/24c
House for Rent in Viking. 2 bedroom. 55+. Available July 1. Call Rick for more information 780-385-4054 (between 7 and 9 p.m.)
2016 Dodge Grand Caravan Great Shape. $6,200. Located in Viking. 250-777-8868
2015 25ft bumper pull Coachman Freedom Express trailer, Model 233 RBS. Two slides, sleeps four. Call 780-336-6585 for details. 21/22p
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Brian has roses for sale for reasonable prices, eight potted roses in total. Also two potted peonies, @ $5 each, and Garlic Chives perennials, 16 potted @ $4.50 each. Will be in Daysland beside Daysland Pharmacy Monday, Wednesday, Friday, weather permitting. Call Brian at 780-678-0053
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Anyone interested in strawberry plants, bare root only, bring own pots. Also have raspberry plants, buyer to dig out, bring own pots if you want them potted, $100 for 100 plants. Must be gone asap. Call Brian for appointment: 780-678-0053.
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Anyone interested in trees for an excellent wind break, I have disease-resistant and fuzz-free poplars. Also have some willow trees available. Buyer's responsibility to dig out and move. Call Brian for an appointment: 780-678-0053
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FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & Conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.
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WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. Onetime fuel charge: $150 - 225. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961.
PRICING
$20/wk for the first 35 words
45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers
16,000 readers
Vernon Simpson
January 20, 1932September 25, 2024
The ones that we've lost still go with us in spiritIn the faces of family, their presence still lingersIn the dreams they once nurtured, they still shape our futureIn the hearts that embrace them, they live on forever. Our first Father's Day without you Wishing us the comfort of memories as we remember our loved one.
Love: Marlene, Garry, Darrell and Families
CLASSIFIEDS
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
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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
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-453-5372. ————————————————-
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.
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ALL ACROSS ALBERTA FOR 1 AFFORDABLE PRICE! The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 500,000 Alberta readers weekly and are also published online and highly SEO active (Google search friendly). Three options starting at $269, $299 or $599 to get your message out! KEEP people in the loop with over 75 Weekly Community Newspapers. Contact: producton.cp@gmail.com
Did You Know? Facebook continues to experience a sharp decline in popularity, engagement, and user growth, especially among younger demographics, due to various factors including: heavy competition from other platforms, privacy concerns, misinformation, hostility, suppression of legitimate news sources, and rising marketplace scams. Time to rethink if Facebook is the future of your marketing strategy.
Crossword
Quote of the Week: “"You find that you have peace of mind and can enjoy yourself, get more sleep, and rest when you know that it was a one hundred percent effort that you gave – win or lose." -Gordie Howe
KILLAM DENTURE CLINIC
Flagstaff District 4-H Grand Champions
Abby Rancier of the Iron Creek 4-H Beef Club took the Grand Champion Steer during last week’s Achievement Show.
Duncan Kueber of the Iron Creek 4-H Beef Club took home the Grand Champion Female Award at the District Achievement Day.
Arena lobby fundraiser exceeds expectations
Lots of local support for Gordie Enghoj Memorial “Gordie’s Den”
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Earlier this year, a fundraising committee was formed with the purpose of raising funds for an arena lobby renovation, with Carol Kinzer at the helm. The idea to honour former Killam resident Gordie Enghoj came up, and Kinzer says, she couldn’t say no to the job, adding, “When Gordie passed during COVID, we couldn’t honour him as he properly deserved, so this is something we can do to preserve his memory. We can give him a final sendoff.”
Kinzer and her energetic committee gathered silent and live auction items, and pre-sold tables and sponsorships prior to the event, raising nearly $25,000 before it started.
The evening was a huge success, with a full house ready to support the arena lobby renovations and to celebrate Enghoj’s memory.
Committee Member Susan MacKinnon offered a moving tribute to Enghoj after dinner. She said, “Every single person I asked was happy to chat about him... And in remembering Gordie, he made a ripple, that just like in life, kept getting bigger and bigger. And probably the loveliest thing of all was that everyone remembered him with a smile.”
MacKinnon talked about the trials and tribulations in Enghoj’s life. Having been infected with polio at age two, he wasn’t expected to live, she said. “But Gordie’s spirit proved stronger than any virus, and against the odds, he survived.”
His recovery was long and hard. “Polio didn’t kill Gordie, it crippled him,” MacKinnon quoted. “His throat muscles and vocal chords were damaged permanently, and he was left with mental deficits. His spine developed a curve that would contract his lungs and cause him chronic back pain throughout his life.”
Growing up, Gordie worked at various tasks, helping anyone who needed it, she said. “He became known as a dedicated, reliable, hard worker, but his parents had a rule that he was not allowed to be paid for the work he did.” MacKinnon said often his ‘payment’ then would be coffee, pie, or even occasionally as he grew older, a beer.
Enghoj was well-known for his girlfriends. “His #1 girl seemed to change often, and thus began a special, affectionate relationship with Gordie and the female population of Killam and surrounding area. If he was asked how many girlfriends he had, he would say, “1,600, and they’re all female!”
MacKinnon said the place that would come to have the most significance for Enghoj was the Killam Arena. “He and his dad were two of many volunteers
who helped build the original arena which opened in 1950. When it burned down in 1960, afraid for how distraught he might become, no one wanted Gordie to see it.”
She said it was a proud moment for Enghoj when the area was rebuilt in 1961, “just in time for the famous New Year’s Day Tournament, where he was given the honour of dropping the first puck.”
and the teams he spent time with developed a culture with Gordie at their centre.”
MacKinnon shared a personal memory of taking a team photo for the Wheat Kings, and watching the care and attention given to Enghoj as he navigated the ice, looking like a small child beside the players. “The way they treated him, they were really saying, ‘We got ya Gordie, we got ya.’ It seemed
“More than one person has said that he was the best ambassador Killam ever had. Gordie didn’t just enhance our community, he elevated it.”
~Susan MacKinnon “ “
With the expanded facility, Enghoj expanded his duties. “He had a key to every door in the building, knew the schedules for the arena and pool by heart, and truly cared about everything that went on.”
Hockey was the game that would garner most of his attention, MacKinnon said, and his devotion was obvious. “He would tie skates for the little kids until his fingers bled.” She said before there was a Zamboni, there was Gordie with a barrel of water on wheels to flood the ice.
“Gordie would meet visiting teams and show them to their dressing rooms and he became such a constant, that if he was missing, the opposition would wonder where he was and if everything was ok.”
She said that one educator of people with disabilities said that Gordie’s story was the best example of integration into the community that he had ever seen.
Enghoj was struck by a puck one evening, and it was local Don Kueber who took him to the hospital, MacKinnon said. “That trip began a friendship that would span the rest of Gordie’s life, and grow to include Don’s entire family.”
MacKinnon said she got a call from Kueber’s son who said, “Everyone would say it was so good of Dad to take Gordie around. But Dad, and our whole family, got just as much out of that friendship. It was just as good for my Dad, and he used to say if everyone could just have a friend who was a loyal, genuine, and pure as Gordie.”
Continuing with Enghoj’s history, MacKinnon said he was made the honourary Team Manager of the Senior Killam Indians hockey team, and later the Killam Jr. B Wheat Kings named him their #1 fan. Enghoj became a staple in team pictures, MacKinnon said, even when his Killam team won on the road.
“Gordie’s position within the hockey family gave him a special place - one of pride and inclusion. It was a safe place,
to be a complete reflection of all the times Gordie had this town’s back... and it was a beautiful thing to see.”
MacKinnon said there was a serious side to Enghoj as well, as he cared for his aging father, and cared about anyone who was ill. “Whatever Gordie did, he did with sincerity and to the very best of his ability, and it brings to mind the quote: I can’t do all the good the world needs, but the world needs all the good I can do.”
MacKinnon says that Enghoj built a solid group of friends who took him to games, attended Christmas, Halloween, and birthday parties, and “most importantly, picked him up for coffee.”
The Battle River Community Founda-
tion held a Community Builders dinner in Enghoj’s honour many years ago, raising a substantial amount, and even auctioning off certificates for the chance to be Gordie’s #1 girlfriend, MacKinnon said. At the end of the night, she added, Gordie gave his own thank you speech, to a standing ovation from those gathered.
“More than one person has said that he was the best ambassador Killam ever had. Gordie didn’t just enhance our community, he elevated it. Gordie made us all a little more patient, a little more understanding, a little more inclusive, and a little more kind. He made us better people, and in turn made this community a better place to live.”
There wasn’t a dry eye in the house as MacKinnon proposed a toast in Enghoj’s honour.
The live auction followed her presentation, with Dale Jones and Darrin Holben in fine form, also sharing special memories of Enghoj. The silent auction ran until later, with a lot of donated items to bid on.
The evening was a real tribute to Enghoj and his life and times growing up and living in Killam, and as Kinzer said, was a true proper send off.
The event raised over $104,000, and will go a long ways towards creating “Gordie’s Den,” in the arena lobby, in the beloved building where he spent so much of his life and which meant so much to him, over this summer.
One of the special items that was auctioned off during the arena lobby fundraiser was a special beer featuring Gordie Enghoj’s likeness as the Killam Jr. B Wheat Kings #1 fan from Detention Brewery. It was created from the original ink drawing done by Dan Fee that sat in the Killam Memorial Arena lobby. With funds raised from the evening, the lobby will be renamed in Enghoj’s honour, and a large mural will feature his role as the local team’s number one fan.
Golden Prairie 4-H Achievement Day
On Saturday, June 7 in Forestburg, members of the Golden Prairie 4-H Multi-Club got to show off the projects they’ve been working hard all year on. This year there was a very wide range of projects, from busking to woodworking, and everything in between. Members closed out the morning’s presentations with a few busking numbers, earning plenty of applause from the audience. Before breaking for lunch, the group invited members of the audience up to perform the ‘Follow the Leader’ dance, which earned laughs and hearty applause. It was a light-hearted day celebrating a year of hard work by the members and the leaders.
BOB TOEWS PHOTOS
LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTO
Killam Cyclones swim club dives into new season
The Killam Cyclones Competitive Summer Swim Team kicked off their season with enthusiasm and determination at their first meet of the summer, hosted by the Lacombe Dolphins on Saturday, June 7.
It was an early start for the local swimmers, with the team on deck and ready to race by 7:30 a.m. - all having made the drive from Killam that morning.
The meet ran until about 4 p.m., and despite the long day, the Cyclones’ swimmers gave it their all.
The team has been training since May 1 and came prepared.
Several of the club’s returning swimmers challenged
themselves by signing up for new events this year, and the Cyclones’ coaches were proud to see them step out of their comfort zones.
A special shout-out to Easten Gordon, who was the only boy in the 9/10 age group to compete in the 200m freestyle across all participating teams - and he did an outstanding job!
The club also wants to recognize Sara Levitt, who tried breaststroke in competition for the first time, swimming both the 25m and 50m races. After finishing the 50m, she summed it up perfectly with a breathless, “That was long!” - but she swam it like a pro.
The Cyclones brought home the following ribbons in individual events - four first-place ribbons, three secondplace ribbons and three third-place ribbons - not bad for eight swimmers in attendance.
The photo shows one of the club’s relay groups during the morning session, a highlight of teamwork and team spirit.
The club is incredibly proud of how its swimmers performed and supported one another, and can’t wait to see what they accomplish in the weekends ahead. Go Cyclones!
LOCATION:
From the Highway #855 & Highway #26 junction north of Daysland go 1 km south on Highway #855 OR from Daysland go 16 km north on Highway #855.
●2011 KUBOTA M108S MFWD tractor w/ M45 self levelling FEL, & 7 ft. bucket, & grapple, 3,325 hours, 108 hp. engine, 24 speed partially synchronized transmission w/ creeper,3 pt. hitch, left hand reverser, joystick, 3 hyd’s., 540/1000 pto., outer rear wheel weights, 18.4-34 rears, A/C, 2nd owner, shedded.
●1985 ALLIS CHALMERS 8050 MFWD tractor, 8,488 hours, 152 hp., 20F/4R partial powershift transmission, 540/1000 pto., 20.8R38 duals, 18.4R26 fronts, 3 hyd’s., shedded, 2nd owner.
●1984 ALLIS CHALMERS 8030 MFWD tractor, 10,998 hours, 133 hp., 12F/2R powershift transmission, 1000 pto., 20.8-38 rears, 16.9-26 fronts, 3 hyd’s., shedded, 2nd owner.
ANTIQUE TRACTOR
●1957 ALLIS CHALMERS D14 tractor, 34 belt hp., 540 pto., 3 pt. hitch, belt pulley, 4F/1R, 14.9-26 rears, 5.50-16 fronts., shedded.
●1994 FORD L8000 s/a grain truck w/ 16 ft. steel box, Nordic hoist,469,581 km, 5,875 hours, 250 hp. Cummins FD-1460 diesel, Eaton Fuller 10 speed manual, silage endgate, 11R22.5 tires, new brakes, shedded.
●1980 INTERNATIONAL S1700 s/a truck w/ 14 ft. 2 compartment 9 ton “V” hopper tank, 149,499 km, 404 gas, 10F/2R, HI/LO range.
●1993 CHEVROLET 2500 truck w/ flatdeck, & Miller welder w/ cables, 311,687 km, Kohler 16 hp. motor, 4X4, 5.7L gas, automatic.
●EZEE-ON 7450 30 ft. cultivator / air seeder, single shoot, 12” spacing, 12” knock on shovels & 4” Nichols knock on openers, 4 bar levelling harrows, c/w extra set of shovels.
●FLEXI-COIL 1110 TBH air tank, shedded.
●INTERNATIONAL 55 chisel plow w/ shovels, 27 ft., 12” spacing.
●FLEXI-COIL System 95 harrow packer, 60 ft., 5 bar bent tine harrows, 11-15 tires.
●MASSEY FERGUSON 376 harrow bar, 60 ft., 5 bar straight tine harrows, 9.5-14 fronts.
●2006 GREENSLADES 10 ft. land leveler.
SWATHING & HAYING
●1999 NEW HOLLAND 648 silage special round baler, makes 4 ft. x 5 ft. bales, Gandy preserver applicator, 540 pto., shedded.
●NEW IDEA 4865 round baler, 15,782 bales, 1000 pto., monitor, makes 5’ x 6’ bales, shedded.
●1982 VERSATILE 4400 s/p swather w/ 20 ft. bat reel, hydro, cab, 11.2-24 fronts, shedded.
●1991 NEW HOLLAND 116 haybine, 14 ft., 540 pto., rubber conditioning rollers.
AUCTIONEERS NOTE:
Werner & Marianne have decided to retire their farming operation. There will be an extremely tidy lineup of mostly shedded equipment UP4BIDS!
●1987 JOHN DEERE 7720 Titan II s/p combine w/ 12 ft. p/u, 3,571 engine hrs., chopper, shedded.
●1979 JOHN DEERE 224 straight cut header w/ 24 ft. pickup reel & plastic fingers.
●BRANDT 845 grain auger, 8”, 45 ft., Kohler 25 hp.electric start motor, 4,500 lb. electric winch.
●BRANDT 735 grain auger, 7”, 35 ft., Honda GX390 13 hp. electric start motor, 15” tires.
●Grain roller w/ magnet, 16” x 18” wide, 540 pto.
TRAILERS
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MISCELLANEOUS
3 bottom plow. ●Honda GX160 motor w/ 3” water pump, 250 ft. hose, suction pipe. ●Gallagher 12V & 110V electric fencers. ●Gallagher speed reel w/ 400’ wire. ●(3) -New galvanized grounding rods. ●Grain Guard aeration ducts for 14’ & 15.5’ bins. ●Chain, towropes,& boomers. ●Assorted hitch pins & clevises, etc.
●Westeel 100 gallon slip tank w/ Fill-Rite 13 GPM 12 volt pump, hose, & nozzle. ●Dewalt 30 gallon portable upright air compressor. ●Dewalt 20V grease gun & case. ●Hydraulic driven pipe crimper. ●Roof & wall tin. ●Metro brown trim, j-trim, & soffit.
●Assorted fenceposts & metal stand. ●Assorted iron & metal. ●PLUS MORE—SEE WEBSITE!
2010 SURE TRAC 22 ft. t/a gooseneck trailer.
1994 TRAIL RITE 16 ft. t/a bumper pull stock trailer, center divider.
GRAIN TRUCKS & VEHICLE
GRAIN HANDLING