June 25 Community Press

Page 1


The Community Press

TEXT ‘ABFIRES’

to 45678 to donate $10 to Red Cross for Jasper wildfire relie

Central High Sedgewick Public School held a celebration for its graduates on Saturday, June 21, at the Wild Rose Co-op Recreation Centre in Sedgewick. The arena was packed with family, friends, and community members there to support the hardworking Grade 12 students. The Class of 2025 saw 38 students cross the stage. Their theme for the celebration was ‘And That’s a Wrap!’

Teacher Reagan Hogstead was invited to introduce each graduate as they individually made their way to their seats on stage.

Principal Richard Cowan then delivered the Principal’s Address.

“Grade 12, it’s a wrap. Almost. Thank you for the time we spent together,” Cowan began.

He shared a few jokes before leaving the graduates with a poem by James Ogunjimi:

“You will all be remembered. You have all tried. I appreciate you and say thanks.”

Cowan closed by saying, “Congratulations Class of 2025. You’ve all allowed me once again to be a proud principal.”

Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely was in attendance and delivered a brief speech congratulating the students and their families for all the hard work that had brought them to this milestone.

Battle River School Division Trustee Dwight Dibben also addressed the graduates.

“I am sure none of the graduates are prone to this, but occasionally I’ve been known to leave things to the last minute,” Dibben joked. “And so, of course, as I was driving up here, I did pull over to the side of the road safely, MLA Lovely, to make a few notes.”

He continued, “I have three words to share that, in my view, can be part of the secret to success and happiness as you go forth: caring, compassion, and confidence.”

Guest speaker Janelle Clark, an educational assistant at CHSPS, shared heartfelt remarks.

“Being here with you today, celebrating this amazing achievement in your lives, is a privilege I am incredibly grateful for,” said Clark.

“You have inspired me and led me into a career I wasn’t sure I belonged in. I am so proud of everything you have accomplished so far in your lives. And as ex-

cited as I am to see where life takes you next, I’m going to miss you.”

Clark also offered advice and words of wisdom as the students prepare to begin the next chapter of their lives.

Marcy Lazarick delivered the message from the parents.

“Through it all, you have shown resilience, creativity, and humour. You have become young adults with voices, opinions, passions, and potential,” she said.

“Don’t fear failure. When you fell learning to ride a bike, we didn’t say, ‘Well, guess you’re just not a bike person.’ No, we picked you up, brushed off your knees, and sometimes bribed you with ice cream. Life is like that, too. You’re going to fail. Get up, brush off your knees, and if the situation calls for ice cream, make it a double scoop.”

Graduates Caylin Brumwell and Jaxyn Johnson gave the student response.

“We would like to thank you, as you were the ones

guiding, helping, and reassuring us throughout our whole lives,” said Johnson.

“To be honest, high school has been a complete whirlwind. Challenges have come at us faster than overdue assignments, and without your support, we wouldn’t be standing here today,” added Brumwell.

Each graduate was then called up individually to accept their certificate from Principal Cowan and Vice Principal Mr. Nickel.

Class valedictorian Ava Bergseth closed the ceremony with inspiring words.

Quoting a song by OneRepublic, she said, “‘I only expected that this was the beginning,’ and I decided that was the exact line that sums up my hopes and dreams for my fellow students—not just to live, not just to get through life, but to own it. To take every second, whether it lifts you up or breaks you down, and claim it as part of your story.”

The Community Press office will be CLOSED Monday, August 5 for the Civic Holiday. We will reopen Tuesday, Aug. 6 at 9 a.m. and our next edition will still be published Wedneday. Aug. 7 Ad deadlines will be noon Tuesday, Aug. 6

The remainder of the evening was filled with celebration, food, photos, and dancing.

ALLY ANDERSON PHOTO
Graduates from Central High Sedgewick Public School’s Class of 2025 celebrated their achievements with family, friends, and staff during a ceremony held June 21 at the Wild Rose Co-op Recreation Centre in Sedgewick Graduate Adison Grove shares a special dance with her father, Billy Grove.

5037

$219,000

Salted chosen for G7

As preparations were made for dignitaries from around the globe to gather in Kananaskis last week for the G7 summit, one local company was about to get a big surprise.

The dignitaries and their spouses were welcomed with curated gifts that were chosen to celebrate the very best of Canadian and Albertan craftsmanship. The gifts were assembled by Willows Box & Co. which is an Alberta-based gifting

studio known for highquality collections.

To the delight of the local businesswomen, “Salted” caramels were among the handpicked items.

“When we found out our caramels would be part of the G7 gifts, we were completely stunned - in the best way,” said Kristy Jackson, cofounder of Salted.

“It’s one of those surreal, full-circle moments that reminds you why you started.

“We’re just three women from rural Alberta who dared to dream

big - and this made that dream feel incredibly real. It’s meaningful beyond words.”

The gift box included the company’s Classic Sea Salt – Four Piece Box: elegantly presented in a luxe matte box with gold foil accents.

Each caramel is individually wrapped and sealed like a gift.

The company’s inclusion in the G7 Summit curated gift box highlights the rising impact of women-led small businesses in Canada - and serves as a reminder that world-class products

aren’t limited by geography.

“Extraordinary, luxurious things can come from the smallest of places.”

Canada Post final offer to go to union vote, new deal reached with second largest union

Canada Post received notification that the Minister of Jobs and Families has approved its request for a vote to take place on the company’s final offer to the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW).

The Corporation says that the vote will be administered by the Cana-

dian Industrial Relations Board as soon as possible, which will give employees the final say on Canada Post’s offers.

As of Friday, CUPW had its first meeting with the Canadian Industrial Relations Board, a preliminary discussion to address how the vote would be conducted, also including a list of eligible voters, and distribution of Canada Post’s final

offer to employees.

No date has been set for the vote, and the union says its national overtime ban remains in effect during the process.

This past Friday, Canada Post also reached a deal with the Canadian Postmasters and Assistants Association (CPAA), their second-largest workers union.

CPAA represents

roughly 8,500 of the Crown corporation's employees, most of whom are responsible for managing post offices in rural areas of the country.

The two sides had been negotiating for 18 months when a new deal was met through arbitration.

The agreement includes a wage increase of 11 per cent over three years, retroactive to Jan. 1, 2024.

Lynette Hayes, Kristy Jackson and Jill Price are the co-owners and founders of Salted. They were delighted to find out that their signature caramels had been chosen as part of a curated gift collection given to G7 Summit dignitaries.

OPINION

When Canadian-grown fruits and vegetables reach the market - typically from June to October - prices become much more stable. Historically, during this window, price fluctuations, the up-and-down swings at the checkout, are about half as volatile as the rest of the year, thanks to seasonal abundance and shorter, domestic supply chains.

B ut in today’s global market, that seasonal advantage is easier to miss, and sometimes even manipulated. With so many fruits and vegetables imported yearround, it’s harder for shoppers to recognize when prices should naturally drop due to local supply. Still, our food culture and consumer instincts remain tied to seasonal cues. Strawberries, for instance, are a symbolic summer staple. Even though other crops ripen earlier, strawberries often serve as nature’s announcement that summer has begun.

Unfortunately, some retailers exploit that sentiment. Just recently, strawberries were listed at $17.50 for two litres, over $11 per pound. That’s excessive. And in today’s social media landscape, a single viral post can tarnish an entire industry’s reputation. Sharing overpriced items online can pressure stores to explain or adjust, especially when thousands of frustrated shoppers join the conversation. If a price seems outrageous, don’t stay silent. Call it out. Transparency is a powerful consumer tool, and digital platforms can hold retailers accountable.

Canada’s fresh produce season runs mainly from June through October, peaking between mid-July and mid-September. Here’s what you should expect to pay, roughly, when shopping in peak season:

• Strawberries (June–July): $2.99–$3.99/lb

• Blueberries (July–August): $2.49–$3.49/lb

• Apples (August–November): $0.99–$1.49/lb

• B.C. cherries (July–August): $3.99–$5.99/lb

• Tomatoes (July–September): $1.29–$2.49/lb

• Sweet corn (August–September): $0.50–$0.75/ear

• Cucumbers (June–September): $0.79–$1.29 each

• Carrots (July–October): $0.69–$0.99/lb

• New potatoes (July–September): $0.99–$1.29/lb

Prices vary depending on where you shop, whether supermarkets, farmers’ markets or farm gates, and by quality, size, growing method (organic or conventional), and timing within the season. Public markets, especially near closing time, and discount grocery chains often offer the best deals. Shopping local in summer means fresher, more flavourful food and a lower grocery bill.

Beyond cost, out-of-season imports are often shipped thousands of kilometres, adding to food miles and emissions. That’s why strawberries in January or corn in March can cost two to three times more and come with a much larger environmental footprint.

In short, summer has arrived. Let’s take advantage of Canada’s fresh harvests. But stay alert. Price abuse doesn’t belong in this season, and in today’s digital age, ignoring consumer backlash is reckless.

If something feels off, say something. Social media doesn’t take summers off. © Troy Media - Dr. Sylvain Charlebois Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Canadian professor and researcher in food distribution and policy. He is senior director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University and co-host of The Food Professor Podcast

Summer produce should mean better prices, not ripoffs Healthcare Update

News from the Legislature Jackie Lovely MLA for Camrose Constituency

Some of the most common concerns Albertans have with our health care system are wait times, staff shortages, and a lack of local decision-making. Albertans are tired of bureaucracy getting in the way of common-sense solutions, and they’re right to be.

That’s why your Alberta government is making fundamental changes in how health care is delivered across our province. We’re shifting away from a onesize fits all system run from far-away offices, and we’re putting real decisionmaking power where it belongs, in the hands of the dedicated staff who run our hospitals.

Beginning in fall 2025, with full implementation expected by summer 2026, hospitals in Alberta will operate under hospital-based leadership. This means key decisions like hiring frontline staff, managing supplies, and responding to local challenges, will be made directly by hospital teams working on-site.

United Conservatives are proud to represent nearly every rural community and small town in Alberta. We know what works in Calgary might not work in Camrose, Tofield, Viking or Killam. Our communities are as unique and diverse as the hardworking Albertans that call them home, empowering them to act quickly and decisively will mean better care and less waiting.

This is about more than just convenience, it’s also about improving outcomes. Health care workers and patients have made it clear; the current system is too slow, too complicated, and too top-down. We've experienced this firsthand in our Camrose Constituency.

By reducing bureaucracy and empowering local leaders, United Conservatives are delivering real, lasting improvements for Alberta families. Thank you to our local Doctors, Nurses, Administrators, and the rest of the healthcare teams for the work you have done and continue to do.

Respecting taxpayers’ dollars is a top priority of Alberta’s government. We recently introduced meaningful tax cuts to save individuals $750 and two-income families up to $1,500. And we’re making health care more efficient by eliminating administrative waste and focusing resources where they matter the most.

While the federal government continues to stand in the way of Alberta’s economic growth, United Conservatives remain focused on real action that makes life better for families - whether it’s cutting taxes, creating jobs, standing up to Ottawa, or refocusing our health care system.

I'll soon be starting another door knocking campaign throughout the Camrose Constituency and look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Jackie Lovely, MLA Camrose Constituency #104, 4870 51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1 Tel: 780-672-0000 Email: camrose@assembly.ab.ca

Alberta T0B 4C0 Phone 780-385-6693

E-mail: (Advertising): production.cp@gmail.com, (News): newsroom.cp@gmail.com

by the Government of Canada

Annual United Church picnic coming up for Alliance, along

The Alliance Museum Society postponed the Tailgate Party from Saturday because of the rain to Sunday afternoon and had a nice day, a good crowd, and a successful fundraiser. Roger Spady won the 50/50. I managed to get two silent auction items.

There was some very active bidding on some items.

There were some new faces at the party. Maurice Bodin and Sharon Greenlee of Markerville arrived in Alliance just in time to attend. They are cousins of Sandra Brinklow.

Holly Tilstra and her dog Timbits also attended. Holly is spend-

ing a few days in the area while arranging the move out of the place she sold to Wickstroms and establishing a new home at Federal.

Last week I picked Trudy Lamoriss up from the Castor Hospital and we went for lunch at the White Goose while we waited for prescriptions to be filled. Brenda Grant and Judy Sultz came in and joined us for lunch.

It was a lovely visit. When I got to Alliance, there was Sue Thomas, Brenda’s sister. We had a brief chat about her scooter. At the Farmer’s Market next day, Gwen Shipton had her vendor table so in two days I saw three of the Buchanan girls. Savanna Gieir was in the Bottle Depot at the same time as I. I didn’t recognize her. This north neighbour girl is all grown up, living in Stony Plain and working

as a butcher.

Bobbie-jo Van Hecke is a Scout Group Commissioner in Red Deer. She was awarded with a Red Deer Mayor’s Recognition Award as I saw on Facebook.

There are some Alliance grads in the Central High School. Tony Yellowbird, Sydney Bullee, and Tiernan Beister. I know Tiernan is living in Killam but he was one of my bus kids.

There is a new fence in the works at the Gathering Place (old school grounds).

There was a congregation of 22 to hear the lesson from Steve Penner telling us that we have no problem too big for Jesus to handle.

Next Sunday is the annual church picnic outside the church. This year we will be celebrating 100 years of United Church history as well a 100 years of the actual

church building in Alliance. It will be a potluck affair.

On July 1st most towns took out a full page ad for their summer celebrations but Alliance is relying on posters and Facebook and my news column. I know you read it but do you remember the information?

Bog in the ‘Burg another weekend of getting down and dirty for fun

LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTOS

Forestburg Power Sports Association’s annual Bog in the ‘Burg event took place over the weekend of June 21 and 22. A rainy day on Saturday did not deter anyone, as more rain meant more mud, and more mud makes for more fun. The Forestburg Mud Bog sees two vehicles go head to head against each other on two separate tracks that require drivers to push their vehicles through deep pits full of wet mud, and multiple hairpin turns. Driving up out of the track costs a time penalty, and ultimately, in each of four classes, the fastest time through wins. Clockwise starting above left: Doug Brown of Forestburg in the Coutts Home Hardware truck shows he’s the master of the pits as he negotiates some deep pools at top speed. As the red truck top right learned, sometimes getting in is far easier than getting out.

Some drivers push their vehicles to the max, with the middle truck taking a turn on two wheels, and the white one to the bottom left blowing out his right passenger side tire altogether as he headed out of a tight curve.

Sodbusters celebrates opening with BBQ and pie auction

Friday, June 27 from 11-1:30

The Sodbusters Museum in Strome celebrated its season opening with a community barbeque and pie auction. The donated pies were sold by silent auction, with the bidding hot and heavy on many, including a crowd favourite flapper pie. Grand Champion Fiddle player Ethan Harty provided some entertainment during the bidding, and board member Lori Lindseth drew the sheets and announced the winning bidders.

Flagstaff Rural Crime Watch

Killam Wild Rose Co-op Food Store

In partnership with Holbie’s Glass - Get your free anti-theft licence plate screws installed.

LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTOS

Albertans who responded to a recent government survey have landed heavily on letting locals select and manage school library materials.

Most residents of the province believe children should be protected from accessing graphic content in their school libraries, the results released Friday suggest. But support was under 50 per cent in each of six groupings for having the government develop province wide requirements.

Educational frontliners like teachers, librarians, parents and school administrators received the most support for deciding what content in schools is appropriate for students.

Explicit depictions of sexual and other acts in four graphic novels or graphic memoirs prompted the province to announce that it’s investigating the idea of setting standards. The books, found in school libraries in Calgary and Edmonton, were open to children in kindergarten and up.

Most survey respondents — 67 per cent — were from the Edmonton or Calgary areas. The two major metropolitan areas represent a similar proportion of Alberta’s total population.

Respondents in the survey, which closed June 6, were asked whether parental consent should be required for children to access sexually explicit content. The survey found a split of 52 per cent who disagreed or strongly disagreed with requiring consent and 44 per cent who agreed or strongly agreed.

Strong support, at 62 per cent of responses, emerged for parents and guardians having a role in reporting or challenging sexually explicit content in school libraries.

School and public librarians who responded were 74 per cent not at all or not very supportive of government requirements, making up the group most strongly against the idea. The percentage drops to 68 per cent for teachers and 55 per cent for school administrators. The more general grouping called “interested Albertan” comes in at 62 per cent unsupportive.

K-12 parents were closely split, though, with 49 per cent ticking boxes for unsupportive and 44 per cent for supportive. Parents without children in school were 55 per cent unsupportive and 39 per cent supportive.

More than 77,000 respondents took part in the online survey, with 42 per cent of K-12 parent participants saying explicit materials should not be accessible at any age for students in kindergarten to Grade 12.

The survey conducted by Alberta Education and Childcare follows a separate public opinion poll of 1,500 adult Albertans last month. It found that 94 per cent of respondents were against sexually explicit materials being allowed in elementary school libraries. And 51 per cent were against them in any library accessible to children.

Also in the earlier poll, 75 per cent of respondents said it’s important for parents to have a say about what materials are present in school libraries.

Only 14 per cent of K-12 parent respondents said sexually explicit content is acceptable for all age groups in public schools. Those in the group who supported high school-aged students having access amounted to 22 per cent, while the percentage drops to 18 per cent for middle school and four per cent for elementary school.

When it comes to deciding what materials are age-appropriate, school librarians at 23 per cent got the biggest vote of confidence. They were followed by teachers at 20 per cent, parents at 19 per cent, school boards and school administrators at 13 per cent each, and students them-

selves at eight per cent.

The category of other — which presumably includes the provincial government — notched just four per cent.

The province looks at the survey as guidance only and part of an overall public engagement on the issue.

It appears the Ministry of Education and Childcare is going ahead with developing standards, even though the survey fails to give it a ringing endorsement.

The government will use the results and “ongoing feedback collected from education partners” to develop province wide standards, the news release posted Friday says. “These standards will provide school boards with clear and consistent guidelines for selecting and managing age-appropriate materials in school libraries across the province.”

A downloadable document summarizing results says: “It should be noted that this online survey was designed for public engagement. While the results provide useful insights, they should not be generalized to the broader population.”

Many school boards already have policies around content. Potential new requirements would be consistent across the province and would apply to public, separate, francophone, public charter and independent schools.

Volunteers needed for Sedgewick’s Canada Day festivities

Richard and Elaine DeBock are recently back from spending a week in Germany. They walked many miles each day exploring Frankfurt, Heidelberg, and Mainz, particularly the riversides and historical sections of each city.

Some highlights included climbing the 328 steps to the top of the St. Bartholomew Cathedral tower in Frankfurt where they enjoyed spectacular views of the city and taking a boat tour on the Main River to see the city from a dif-

ferent perspective.

In Heidelberg, they toured the castle ruins overlooking the city and discovered a tiny stretch of sandy beach beside the Neckar River, a perfect place to relax after all that walking.

In Mainz, they visited the Gutenberg Museum to see two of the surviving 49 Gutenberg Bibles that were printed in that city in the mid 1400s and also visited several beautiful old churches. They wrapped up their final day in Germany by sipping wine beside the Rhine River.

If you are interested in more details and see photos, you can check out Elaine’s blog at edebock.blog. Thank you for sharing about your recent adventures in Ger-

many. I’m so glad you enjoyed your experience!

Exciting news for Strome and area residents. The Hotel has reopened and held a big opening event on June 20 with pizza, ice cream, and more.

The Sedgewick Ag Society is trying to fill a couple more shifts for the Canada Day and weekend festivities. If you can help, please reach out to Christie Rose. Be sure to check

out all that Sedgewick and area have to offer on Canada Day! See their flyer in this issue. Happy Canada Day! Apparently 16 billion passwords have been stolen in a recent cyber attack. Please consider changing yours! Don’t use the same one for multiple sites.

Julie Matthews shared some more details regarding this. While I’m not eager to change my passwords, I feel like I will regret it more if I

don’t and turn out to be one of the 16 billion that will lose access to my accounts. The time spent changing passwords will be considerably less than trying to recover a compromised account, I’m sure of that!

And just like that we have made it to the last week of school! That sure happened quickly. Wishing everyone a great summer! Please be mindful as kids may be playing or biking in the

streets starting this Friday.

Lynx soccer hosted its last practice and wind up on Monday. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the season! Last call for registrations for Hardisty Lake United Church Camp. Registration ends June 30. Be sure to register and provide your kids with a memorable week of camp! They offer archery, canoeing, and much more!

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

KILLAM DENTURE CLINIC

Hardisty Elks Hall vibrates

Well hello all you wonderful folks. Summer has officially started, let the holidays begin. School is out shortly and high school students are writing their final exams. Now you will have two months of reprieve from classes and hurting your brain with all that new information, yippee!

My neighbour, Marion MacDonald, popped over the other day to bring me some exciting news. Her grandson, Wyatt Wianko, is a 16year-old student who attends Gus Wetter High School in Castor. He was a steer rider till he became of age to ride bulls. This has to be such a frightening sport but this young man loves it. Watching this sport gives me shivers. You have to be so quick, smart and strong.

Wyatt will be representing Alberta, Canada, as a bull rider at a July 13 rodeo that is being held in Wyoming.

Boy, What an honour! His grandma Marion will stay home to tend the farm while her man Carl Andersen will accompany Wyatt and his mom Megan to the States. They will support and cheer on this young cowboy as he represents his country. We are so very proud of you

young man. Best of luck to you.

Hardisty hosted the honourable Pierre Poilievre and Damien Kurek a few nights ago, in Hardisty. I was told the men toured the tank farm in Hardisty. It is a mass of structures that provide the movements of oil so it can be transported all over Canada and beyond.

The news article stated, ”Workers here run the largest export terminal in the country. They move more than $90 billion dollars of oil that flows right through their terminals per year.”

This Hardisty site is nationally so important and so impressive and yet our local male and female employees just say, “Yeah, I just work at the Tank Farm.” Be proud employees, you are so necessary and vitally important to Canada.

The Morrison and Miller families gathered on June 22 at Red Deer, Bower Ponds to “Walk for ALS” (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) in memory of Janice Morrison.

This year they raised over $6,000, thanks to family and friends donations. That is awe inspiring and the hope is a cure will be discovered very soon.

I spoke to Mary Ann and John Pioker regarding their “Hardisty Jam Session” this weekend. It was a roaring success. John and Mary Ann both love music and have

been instrumental in organizing the gathering of numerous, very talented musicians to the Elk’s Hall for wonderful jam sessions.

The Elk’s hall vibrated with fabulous music and song and the dance floor was filled people of all ages trying old time waltzes, polkas, line dancing and the new dance steps.

People even asked John if the Elks’ hard-

wood floor had horse hair laid underneath it like that famous dance hall in Saskatchewan. The answer is “no’ but think how happy these folks were if they danced so divinely to the music that they felt they were dancing on horse hair.

What a compliment to the talented music makers and maybe a bit of liquid refreshment too? HaHa.

John said the youngest visiter was a little threeyear-old boy dressed in a western outfit. He was adorable but so was the oldest gentleman there. He was non other than the musician, our one and only Bill Whitelock, accompanied by his musical wife Bev. It was a magical weekend.

The Pot Luck meal on Saturday night was scrumptious, too, and monetary donations will

be donated to the Elks’ Hall. What a wonderful weekend and a resounding success. Thank you again,John and MaryAnn for organizing this event.

I hope all your gardens are growing well and your flowers are blooming. It was so cold Tuesday morning, hopefully nothing got hit by frost.

Have a wonderful week and please call me!

Last Wednesday in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan

Premier Scott Moe and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, plus MLAs from both provinces met ‘to make a unified call for national change.’ The meeting comes two weeks after a First Ministers meeting in Saskatoon, which included Prime Minister Mark Carney and 13 premiers from across Canada.

In a joint statement from Premiers Smith and Moe, six key points rose from the June 18 meeting and will proceed to the government of Canada.

“Together, we call for an end to all federal interference in the development of provincial resources.

MLA Kevin Weedmark was present at the meeting in Lloydminster.

“It was a very productive exercise,” he said. “It was a very productive day, to be able to have those conversations and find out just how much we do have in common with our neighbours in Alberta.”

The two provinces are on the same page in many areas—especially natural resources as “Saskatchewan was blessed with all the potash and the all the uranium, and Alberta was blessed with a lot of the hydrocarbons,” as Weedmark noted.

“Another thing that we talked about a lot yesterday was port-to-port infrastructure,” he said. “Talking about a way of having better access to Prince Rupert, which is a very important port and to Churchill, or some other spot along the coast of Hudson Bay, having basically a corridor right across, and having oil exports, other exports, able to take that path and get to tidewater.”

Being the country’s only Arctic seaport serviced by rail, the Polar Bear Capital of the World might be on the cusp of boom times once again. The Federal government recently announced a $175 million commitment over the next five years to support and maintain the Hudson Bay Railway.

“Some of the discussion was on twinning the rail line out to Prince Rupert, adding some pipeline capacity to Prince Rupert because there’s more potential for hydrocarbon exports from there,” Weedmark explained. “Prince Rupert is very close to the Asian markets, just the way it’s situated. It’s a good spot to ship from, and then basically, having a port-to-port corridor, or having that come right across from the prairies to that, and then also access up to either Churchill or another spot along Hudson Bay, just so that you’ve got your export options. It would be a nation-building exercise. It would solve a problem—helping get our products to tidewater—and it would help build this nation. The Prime Minister now says he wants Canada to be an energy superpower, so it would be great to see this proceed.”

After the First Minister’s conference during the first week of June, attendees left optimistic that their concerns were heard—hopeful that action on their concerns brought forward will come next. When asked if he thinks that mood of optimism continues to prevail, Weedmark noted a ‘wait and see’ approach.

“Everything the federal government is saying, a lot of things Mark Carney is saying about things like pipelines, it sounds good,” he said. “Now we need to see some action that backs up those words. Part of this exercise yesterday was trying to come up with a common approach from Alberta and Saskatchewan. Together, we are a very significant driver of the Canadian economy. We’re a very significant source of Canada’s export revenues—from energy, from other resources, and from agriculture. We’re an important part of this country, and it’s important that we work together to amplify our voice and make sure that

we’re heard in Ottawa.

“What the Prime Minister is saying sounds good, but we thought we would get together and make sure that we’re speaking as clearly and in as united a way as possible to make sure that our voices are heard, and we’ll see what the Prime Minister does moving forward.”

“It’s great to be there and see these ideas being formulated and being crystallized,” Weedmark said of last Wednesday’s meeting. “It was a great experience, and I was very happy to meet so many of my colleagues from Alberta and realize just how much we have in common.”

Weedmark is also confident that future meetings will occur between the two caucuses.

“There was a lot of lot of good discussion, a lot of progress made, quite a few friendships made yesterday,” he said. “I think everyone’s interested in meeting again and forging our future together.

“We want to move our provinces forward, and we’d like to move them forward within a strong and united Canada,” Weedmark continued. “We’re not waiting for leadership at the federal level to lead us in the right direction, we’re taking the leadership, moving in the right direction, and hopefully the federal government is there to support us.”

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

The Community Press

Poilievre pays Hardisty a visit

Around 150 people attended a community town hall in Hardisty Saturday night, with Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre and former Battle River-Crowfoot MP Damien Kurek.

Kurek took the stage to enthusiastic applause, thanking everyone for coming, calling it, “A fantastic end to a very good day.” Kurek said he and Poilievre had taken an opportunity over the past few days to meet with many in the Battle River Crowfoot area, including a meeting and detailed tour of the Hardisty Terminal earlier that day.

Kurek said, “There are moments in one’s life, including that of a politician, where you talk lots about what needs to be done.

“In the aftermath of the election, it certainly wasn’t the result that Danielle and I hoped for.” He said he and his wife talked, and decided, “that it was fundamentally important to ensure that this man had a path back to Parliament. So we made the offer; we had some questions about rural representation and what that would look like, then we made the offer [to resign].”

Kurek added that he has now put in his resignation. “Hopefully a by-election will be called soon so that we can get this man back into parliament, and he can keep fighting as leader of the Conservative Party, as leader of the official Opposition, and run again in the next election to be Canada’s Prime Minister.”

Kurek thanked the Hardisty and District Development Group for hosting Poilievre and himself that day, and “showing what truly is the best of rural Alberta.”

Poilievre entered then, to a standing ovation. “Thank you very much, Hardisty,” he said, “It’s great to be here today to celebrate what is literally the beating heart that pumps $90 billion dollars of power right

across this continent, through these steel veins that we call pipelines, something that I got a chance to witness today. I think pound for pound this has got to be the most important place in Canada,” he told the local crowd.

Poilievre then gave a “heartfelt thank you to Danielle and Damien, for the incredible selfless act that you’ve undertaken to allow me to lead our party in Parliament if, God willing, the people of this region decide to elect me in the forthcoming byelection. To give a voice to the 8.3 million people who voted for us in the last election and gave us a very strong mandate to speak for change.

“Damien, I will never be able to thank you enough.”

Poilievre also extended a warm welcome to former Member of Parliament Kevin Sorenson, saying he had many fond memories of working with Sorenson in Parliament as seatmates. “Thank you very much,Kevin, for all the leadership you provided.”

Poilievre reminisced about being back in Alberta, saying he was born and raised in Calgary. He talked about Battle RiverCrowfoot, saying, “If I had to sum up the region, I would say this region feeds, powers, and protects all of Canada. You feed the people with the farmers and ranches, you power it with the energy, and of course you protect it with the Wainwright CFB base. All three of those things which we could not exist without as a country are right here in this community.

“I would consider it a sacred trust to earn the support of the people here and to speak on their behalf across this country.”

He talked about the necessity of getting the resources in the area to the world market. He talked about the loss of Energy East and the Keystone XL pipelines. “It was a travesty that those two projects were killed. To get those projects going, we need to remove the laws and rules that Ottawa has imposed.”

Poilievre touched on many of his campaign promises, including removing barriers for development and new projects, changing capital gains taxation, introducing incentives to Canadian investment. “That would be like rocket fuel for our economy. Think about all the retired farmers who could invest in new businesses for their family, that would bring an incredible amount of wealth, and in fact reward people for their life’s work.”

Poilievre also said that no interest group or person should have veto power on any major project.

He said in meeting with local municipal representatives he was inspired by pre-permitting and shovel-ready zones and implementing that in all levels of government. “This is our vision, to make this country a place where there are bigger pensions and paychecks for people, and that those dollars go further.”

He advocates for smaller government, less bureaucracy, and getting tougher on crime, repealing the present ‘catch and release’ laws.

“We are going to bring in a law that says three strikes and you’re out. Three repeat violent offences, or serious offences, you’re no longer eligible for bail, parole, probation, or house arrest; it’s going to be jail, not bail. And once we lock these guys up, the crime rate will go down.”

Poilievre said that he wants to make changes to reward those people who work hard, pay their taxes, and play by the rules. “We are going to stand up for farming families and for rural life. That also means reversing the gun grab,” he added, to great applause.

“Our mission is about, and Damien will agree, it’s about standing up for the freedoms and the rights of law-abiding people and folks that carry the nation on their shoulders.

“That’s why we’re in this, that’s our purpose, and it will be a privilege, should you so choose, for me to have the

chance to fight for you and to carry on these values, in order to move towards a new future for our country. One that puts you back in charge of your life.”

Kurek and Poilievre then opened the floor to questions from the audience.

Question period ranged from sharing viewpoints to asking specific questions. Poilievre was asked about strengthening ethics and accountability rules for politicians, and said he agreed it was necessary. He was asked about fighting for the residents of Battle RiverCrowfoot, specifically, and said that he wants to follow in the footsteps of Sorenson and Kurek, adding that Kurek has committed to running again as the Battle River-Crowfoot can-

The Community Press office will be CLOSED Monday, August 5 for the Civic Holiday. We will reopen Tuesday, Aug. 6 at 9 a.m. and our next edition will still be published Wedneday. Aug. 7 Ad deadlines will be noon Tuesday, Aug. 6

didate in the next federal election. “And in the interim period, to helping me stay on top of what’s happening in the region, every single week, and probably more than that. It’s my intention to raise the voice of the people of Battle River Crowfoot as your local member of parliament, should you give me that honour, and to do so with the guidance and direction of the best local champion that this region has.”

Kurek added his comments then, saying, “Pierre was used to hearing from me before about local issues, and in fact Hardisty and the tank farm was a common theme. Pierre being a champion for this region doesn’t simply start if he Continued on Page B15

LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTO
Canadian Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre was in Hardisty on Saturday, June 21, where he met with local managers and representatives from Hardisty Terminal, received a detailed tour of the Terminal, and then met with locals at a community town hall.

January 27, 1932 –June 13, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Cecil (dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, brother-in-law and friend).

It is with great joy that we describe his life to all that knew him.

Born January 27, 1932, in the Galahad Hospital into the expanding family of Jake and Josephine Lewis. Ten siblings made for a cozy farmhouse.

Cecil was raised on the farm south of Killam that was the turn-of-the-century homestead of Jake. Times were hard, as Dad often recounted the generosity of apples sent from BC and salted cod from the Maritimes, yet still reminisced how

much fun they had competing with each other as they did their chores. Little did they know they were just trying to survive the dirty thirties.

Dad and Mom (Elizabeth (Betty) Pearl Rancier) were married on November 7, 1958. They bought the Roy Meeks farm and so the story began as they continued to add to their land base.

Dad took great pride in the knowledge that the Lewis homestead received Century Farm status, and the fact that generations of the Lewis’ have continued to farm the land that his dad had broken and improved on a $10 bet.

Brent (1960), Randy (1962), and Denise (1965) all joined the workforce enthusiastically.

After Mom’s passing in August of 2014, Dad continued to farm. Right up to and including the Spring of 2025 where he seeded over 2,000 acres.

Dad’s second passion was his love of sports.

Watching the Blue Jays would often ignite stories of the Merna ball team

Cecil William Lewis

and the rowdy games that occurred between other districts. Following local sports played by his grand and greatgrandkids brought sparks to his eyes and gave him great delight.

Dad will be missed by all. He leaves his three children, brother Dan (Gert), sister Shirley (Keith), 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, countless nieces, nephews, and their children.

The Lewis and Marquart family wish to extend their appreciation to the Sorenson family and local community for the outpouring of support.

Any donations to Killam and District Health Care foundation c/o Palliative Care Unit, whose staff went above and beyond in Dad’s final days, are welcomed.

Arrangements by Fee and Sons Funeral Home and Crematorium Killam Helping families and their Communities for over 100 years feeandsonsfuneralhome.com

Veronica Probst

the age of 100 years.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters Margaret Ann (Len), Sharon (Gary), Janet (Doug) and Valda (Bob); 13 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Veronica was predeceased by her husband Harold Probst.

If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in Veronica’s memory may be made to The Iron Creek Museum (Log Hall Restoration) or

a charity of one’s choice.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, June 27, 2025, at Burgar Memorial Chapel, 481751 Avenue Camrose.

To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com.

Burgar Funeral Home

Camrose & Daysland (4817 51 Ave, Camrose, Alberta T4V 0V4) in care of arrangements. 780-672-2121.

“Dedicated service since 1906”

June 15, 1932June 22, 2025

Doris Joan Swanson

Hardisty where she resided in Long Term Care.

Doris Joan Swanson was born on June 15, 1932, in Hardisty Alberta. She passed away peacefully in the Hardisty Hospital at the age of 93.

She was predeceased by her husbands, Kenneth Sutter and Louis Swanson, as well as her daughter-in-law, Connie Sutter. Also predeceased were her parents, Ernest and Vera Creasy, her brothers Martin (Esther), Brian (Bessie), Alan (Irene), Donald and David, and her sisters Phyllis (Les Evans) and Iris (Kenny Drever).

Doris spent most of her life in the Hardisty area.

After many years on the farm, Doris and Louis moved to Providence Place in Daysland. In 2021, Doris returned to

She was a dedicated member of the Hazelwood Good Deed Club and served faithfully in the Nazarene Church, especially as a Sunday School teacher. Faith and community were deeply important to her.

Doris cherished her family. For 50 years she hosted Thanksgiving reunions at the farm. These moments meant the world to her.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Garry (Sheila) and their children: Clint (Shawna), Derek (Char) and Bryce (Morwenna); Kathy (Tony Ellis) and their children: Kelly, Theresa and Lee (Daniela); Allan (Margaret) and his children: Carrie (Todd Carriere) and Curtis (Anjuli).

She also leaves behind 21 great-grandchildren, sisters-in-law Eileen Swindells, Carol Younker, and Lavera Goodeye, and many nieces and nephews.

Doris will be remembered for her kind and loving spirit, her strength, and the warmth she shared with everyone she met. She will be deeply missed.

A Funeral Service for Doris will be held Friday June 27, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the Church of Nazarene 4605 51 Ave, Sedgewick, Alberta.

Please join the family for fellowship and refreshments in the lower hall of the church following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Hardisty Auxiliary; Sedgewick Nazarene Church; Battle River Community Foundation (Creasy Fund); or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Fee and Sons Funeral Home and Crematorium Killam Helping families and their Communities for over 100 years feeandsonsfuneralhome.com

1925 - 2025
Veronica Probst of Camrose, Alberta, formerly of Lougheed, Alberta, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2025, at

Providence Place in Daysland celebrates 25th anniversary with residents, board, and staff

Providence Place residents, staff, and the board celebrated the facility’s 25th anniversary on Sunday, June 22. Acting as master of ceremonies for the afternoon celebration was Lynne Jenkinson, who introduced various speakers throughout the event.

Jenkinson said, “Our visionaries and our builders had a dream. Eugene and others got together to build a community that would keep our older generation at home, for most of their lives or close to it.

She introduced the present board, consisting of: Joe Rau, Denise Zimmel, Denise Miller, Leslie Heck, Jeannie Fisher, Gordie Blatz, and Daysland Mayor Wayne Button, asking those present to give them a round of applause and a thank you.

She then welcomed Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely to kick things off.

Lovely made a presentation to Providence Place Manager Jay Adams of a special plaque, reading, “Jackie Lovely, MLA for Camrose Constituency, congratulations to Providence Place for 25 years of serving Daysland and area. Wishing you continued success.”

Daysland Mayor Wayne Button then spoke, saying, “It is my pleasure on behalf of Daysland Council and residents, to bring greetings on this monumental day and recognition of 25 years of Providence Place.”

He said that the Mayor of that

time, Eugene [Waldorf] and his wife Martha were “instrumental in kicking off what we now have and are appreciative of in this town - it’s a real honour.

“The relationship that the Town has with Providence Place is founded on that. Providence Place is a very important point in the town. I just want to recognize it as a major employer in the town, in terms of keeping in viability, it brings in people to our community. It provides wonderful services to the residents, and we are very pleased to be able to partner and have a relationship with Providence Place.”

Jenkinson then introduced long-time employee and ‘keeper of memories,’ Joanne Whittleton.”

Whittleton gave a history of Providence Place that included her personal experience there.

“In 1997, Martha and Gene Waldorf stood up. They looked around at our community; they saw our elders, they saw our parents, they saw our neighbours, and they refused to accept that couples who had shared a lifetime together would spend their final days apart.

“Martha and Gino didn’t stand alone - beside them stood Sherry Zimmel and Kay Reist, and with them stood Joe Rau, Maureen Schreiber, and Mariane Wolbeck. Together they approached East Central Health Authority, together they secured $2.4 million, together they claimed land near our hospital, and together they built a promise.”

She said the story began long

before, in 1907 with the coming of the Sisters of Providence, from Kingston, to establish healthcare in “this windswept Alberta town.” She says 90 years later, “We follow in their example. We remember Sept. 15, 1999, the ceremonial turning of soil; a strong horse pulling a plow across what would become our home. By August 2000, we opened our doors. Twenty-four apartments, 12 assisted living suites, and 38 residents moved in two weeks later. Numbers on paper but lives transformed.

“We didn’t stop there. In 2006, four additional assisted living suites, our sunroom plus 13 apartments rise from the earth. In 2010, our own kitchen preparing all our own meals. In 2012, 27 more homes for our elders, with underground

heated parking.

“When I walked through these doors in 2001 I couldn’t have known. I couldn’t have known I would remember every single person who has called these rooms home. Within these walls we’ve celebrated life in all its fullness.

“Each celebration, each gathering, is a thread in the tapestry of our shared lives. This hasn’t been a job, it’s been a calling and it’s been a privilege, and honestly, it’s been my life’s greatest work.

“I know, with absolute certainty, that what began with Martha and Gino’s vision will continue offering our seniors dignity, respect, choice, and above all, the right to age together in place.”

George Rath from Connecting Care, also an original partner

from “way back,” spoke a few words, saying, “I’m just here now to say a heartfelt welcome and thank you to all our dignitaries, residents, families, and all our care partners in putting today together.

“I joined this illustrious crew in 2005,” he said, saying that the community should be very proud of the facility, with so much that residents of Providence Place are able to do.

“You have something here you should be very, very proud of.”

Jenkinson ended her presentation by referring to Wayne Button’s mention of AI building the future, saying, “Community builds the future. Community builds community.”

After the cake cutting Randy Howell entertained the gathered crowd from the gazebo.

Daysland Pharmacy celebrates 10-year anniversary

LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTOS

Daysland Pharmacy owners Mark and MJ Badry celebrated their 10-year anniversary of ownership on Wednesday, June 18, with a free lunch, including cake, and great deals on a giant sidewalk sale. The event attracted a great crowd of people out to help celebrate.

LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTOS
Two members of the original Providence Place board were on hand Sunday, June 22 to officially cut the cake marking the facility’s 25 anniversary of the opening date, Martha Waldorf and Joe Rau. Above, helping, were, from left: Phyllis Kroetsch, Helen Hetzner, Martha Waldorf, Joe Rau, and Alma Dalueg.

Faith: Congratulations to our Graduates

Congratulations to all the Graduates!

This time of year often has us thinking to the future, to new journeys and adventures, or perhaps reminiscing about the times we were on the cusp of something new and felt like we had the world by the tail.

Sometimes I wonder if that is what it might have felt like for the early followers of Jesus. So full of excitement. Seeing the potential of the world Jesus imagined; the Kingdom of God where all are loved and justice (not greed) reigns.

It can be challenging to not let the hardships of life end up making us cynical. It can be difficult to hold onto that hope of something better when everything around us is changing.

But that is the gift of our faith.

We are a resurrection people. Which means that we know (or at least ought to know) that new life can come from the most unlikely places, even from death. The ending of one part of our life’s journey is the beginning of another.

When we hold onto hope, when we lean in and get curious about what opportunities for new life are coming, instead of clinging to what was, we are more resilient. We are more open. We have more love and light to share with others; others who might be needing a beacon of hope as much as we do.

“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” (Ecc 3:1)

In all the seasons of our lives, may we be a beacon of hope for others.

UNRESERVED FARM AUCTION SALE D. TESKE ENTERPRISES LTD

SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2025 AT 10:00 A.M.

LOCATION: 51513 Rg. Rd. 191 Tofield, Alberta

DIRECTIONS: Being from Tofield Co-op Cardlock go 6 miles north. (Creamery Rd.) (Rg. Rd. 191)

Tractors: Deutz Allis 7085 F.W.A. Tractor, CAH, 3-point hitch, dual hyd., dual PTO, 15sp trans, 5742 hrs., S/N 74357019; Massey Ferguson 210-4 F.W.A. diesel tractor, 3-point hitch, PTO, c/w MF F.E.L. c/w bucket, 1579 hrs., S/N 01685

Truck: 1981 Ford F600 Single Axle Grain Truck c/w 16-ft, wooden box, Renn hoist, roll tarp, V-8 eng., 4x2 sp trans, 37654 km, S/N 1FDNF60H1BVA00510

Combine: AC Gleaner F2 SP Combine c/w C. Cab Cooler, Melroe Pick-Up chopper, S/N F-37888-77

Grain Handling: Walinga 510 Grain VAC c/w hoses, 1000 PTO; Westfield W70-36 Grain Auger c/w Kohler ES motor; Farm King 16-ft. x4-inch Auger c/w E motor; Farm King 12-ft. x 4-inch Auger c/w hyd. motor; Gjesdaz Five in One Rotary Seed Cleaner c/w Intake Auger; Auger Hoppers; Assort. Grain Bin Rings

Tillage Equipment: Co-op 179 22-ft. VS Cult c/w mounted harrows & 1620 Valmar Applicator; Ezee-On 16-ft. HD Tandem Disc c/w hyd lift; Renn Vertec 60ft Hyd. Harrow Drawbar c/w 5-ft. HD harrows; Laurier 25-ft. Auto Fold Packer Drawbar; International 14ft. CP Cult c/w hyd. lif; Melroe 160 Harrow Drawbar c/w 5-4-ft. harrows; MF 43 - 13-ft. DD Seed Drill c/w hyd. lift; Flexo-Coil 650gal. Sprayer Tank c/w PTO pump; Assort

Harrows; JD 843 4W Wagon

3-Point Hitch Equipment: Inland D.A. 92 8ft. 3-ph Snowblower c/w hyd. spout; 3ph 8-ft. Blade; Agri-Ease 3ph 5-ft. Rough Cut Mower; Farm King 755 6-ft. 3ph Finishing Mower; 3ph Estate Sprayer c/w 25-gal tank, 12V pump, 8-ft. booms; 3ph 8-ft. Flail Mower Lawn Mower: Cub Cadet XT2 Hydro. Riding Lawn Mower c/w LX 54-inch deck, 279 hrs. Miscellaneous & Tools: 130-gal. Tidy Tank c/w 12V pump; 75-gal. Tidy Tank; Water Master 6-inch Slough Pump c/w large assort. hose; Propane Wildlife Cannon; 4-cyl. Wisconsin Motor; Power Pro 3500 Watt 6.5hp Gen; Honda Pressure Washer; Mastercraft E. Welder; Acetylene Torch c/w bottles & cart; (2) Push Mowers; (2) Lawn Sweeps; Plastic Water Tank; Husky 5.5-hp Air Compressor; Tool Box & cabinet; Diesel Herman Nelson; Bolt & Parts Bins; Large Assort. Nails; Bolts, Screws, Wrenches; Power Shop Tools; Bench Drill Press Makita Grinder; 3/4-inch Socket Sets; Jerry Cans; Assort. HD Cords; Air Impacts; Stihl Chainsaw; Assort. Motorcycle Helmets, Gloves; Assort. Shop Equip; 1T Chain Hoist; Assort. Scrap Iron; Old Farm Equip; Fargo

2T Truck C&C (restorable); International

Tractor, for parts; Many more

To the graduates, and all starting a new journey, be bold! Step into the future

DIRECTIONS: 55117R.Rd.263beingwestofMorinvilleon642toR.R.d263&5MilesSouthor 1MileEastofTrafficCircleonHighway44to37andNorth1MileonR.Rd.263or Highway44&642,2MilesEasttoR.Rd.163&5MilesSouth. Plantoattendthisretirementsalewithqualitygoods. MajorItemsSellApprox.1:00pm,Viewing:SaleDayOnlyfrom8:00am 3pt.Tractor&3pt.Equipment(Nice&1Owner):* KubotaB2150Hydro4WDTractorw/FactF.E.L.&Bucket, 1058Hrs.,SN55489*4’KubotaModelB48CARototillerSN1005*5’RoughCutMower*7’AlliedDozerBlade w/Extension*8’2SectionHarrowDrawbar&Harrows*4’RedQuadivatorModelHill&PotatoDiggerSN977 *7’A.C.Cultivator MajorItems: *2008WhiteHaulmark8’X16’CarHaulerTrailer*54”HydroOTurnKubota ZD18DieselMowerw/524Hrs.,SN42229*TrifoldT.AxleTrailerw/7’X16’Deck,3500Ib.Axles,ST22575 R15Rubber,2-7’FoldingRamps,notonTrailerSN129MD1654MT093139*(2)40’SeaCans Yard(Brief& PartialListing): *LogganChains*Pullers*ChainBoomers*SocketSets*Ext.Cords*V.G.SelectionofPower &HandTools*300GalPolyWaterTankon2WheelTrailer&Spare,NoVIN*NiceBlue2PieceCraftsmanTool Box*Simoniz1750P.Washer*PrincessAuto1.5GasW.Pump*SmallBlueSandBlaster*Earthquake43cc Generator*PowerForce3000WattGenSet*VariousTires&Rims*LotsofLadders*VariousGardenTools *NewCraftsmanGrinders*48”J.D.GrassCatcherw/Dump*OlderFourneyWelder*AgriFabGrassSeeder *GerryCans*StihlModelM.S.170ChainSaw*StihlGasWeedEater*StihlBG55LeafBlower*BoltBins* Orange2TonEngineHoist*AriensST622WasheronRubber*StihlBG55SnowBlower*Approx.20Bundles ofGreyAsphaltShingles*Craftsman190cc.S.P.LawnMower*12EarthquakeRototiller*PoulanRototiller* 48BlackAeratorw/Hitch*Various45GalPlastic&GasDrums*CraftsmanSnowBlower*New28Model 920403SnowTecSnowblowerw/Cab&E.Start*NewYellowPoulanRototiller*2WheelPickupTruckBox Trailer;NoVIN*Scaffolding*48”12VoltViconL.S.11TYardSprayer*NewHyperTouch1800P.S.I.PWasher *PlusNumerousOtherGoods Antiques(Brief&PartialListing): *A.C.ModelW.F.TractorCompletew/Extra Parts,ShouldRun,HasManual*A.C.Tractor,Parts*CreamSeparators*WalkingPlow*SmallChildrensWagon *VariousOldTins*MeatGrinders*CoalOilLamps*Crocks*(2)5GalCreamCans*(2)WringerWashers* OldFurniture*SewingMachine Households: *LotsofVariousItemssuchasFurniture,Ornaments,Freezer, KnickknacksEtc. Viewpicturesatwww.andruchowauctions.com.

Terms&Conditions: Fullsettlementdayofsalebycashorchequewithbankreferenceifunknowntostaff.No creditordebitcards,noMCchequesaccepted.Nobuyerspremium,justbidpriceplusgstifapplicable.Please inspectallitemspriortobiddingasallitemssoldasis.

Rev. Deanna Cox DKR United Churches

RCMP Report: Suspicious male reported in Amisk

Killam RCMP Detachment Report for the period of Friday, June 13 to Thursday, June 19

Friday, June 13

A report of a suspicious person on a bike snooping around a residence in Hardisty. The occurrence happened earlier in the week. Member advised the complainant of the 310RCMP complaint line to call when the occurrence was happening.

Saturday, June 14

Harassing communications was reported in Strome. Members attended and the Complainant has asked the Subject to stop texting. Members located the Subject and warned them to stop any contact with the Complainant or criminal harassment charges would be laid. Subject agreed to stop the contact.

Sunday, June 15

A report was made of an older male walking west bound from Daysland going to Camrose. Members patrolled and unable to locate the Subject.

Hardisty Lake staff requesting assistance with evicting someone. Members advised they can move ahead with the eviction and police can assist if needed.

Monday, June 16

Members were called out to a stolen licence plate and a vehicle that was also keyed. Members attended the scene. Statement and photos taken. No witnesses or suspects at this time.

A suspicious male was reported standing very close to the road just past Amisk. Subject was located near Hardisty and said he was walking from Saskatoon to Camrose. A ride was arranged for the subject.

An abandoned vehicle was reported in some bushes off of Range Road 121. Members located the vehicle which was stolen from Camrose County. Registered Owner was notified and the vehicle towed.

A suspicious male was reported at the Amisk gas station. The Subject was trying to sell jewelry for cash as his credit card wasn’t working. Complainant did not agree and Subject left. Members unable to attend due to priority calls

but are aware of this scam historically.

A report was made for disturbing the peace in one of the local campgrounds. The Subject jumped out in front of the Complainant’s car holding a can of bear spray. Members located the Subject and educated him on safe practices/usage for wildlife.

Tuesday, June 17

An abandoned vehicle was reported on Township Road 450. Members located the vehicle. Contacted the Registered owner and arrangements made for pick up.

Thursday, June 18

A complaint was made of a vehicle driving 50 km\hr on the Highway. Members spoke with the

Registered Owner who stated everything was ok, just driving slowly in windy/rainy conditions.

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 important tool that helps streamline the reporting process, ease pressure on 911 services, and support more efficient police re-

sponses to non-urgent incidents.

Also reported and attended to by Killam RCMP were:

2 – 911 Act – Other Activities

2 – Assault

1 - Assistance to Canadian Provincial/Territorial Dept/Agency

1 - Child, Youth and Family Services ActOther Activities

1 – Coroner’s Act – Sudden Death/Other Activities

1 – Criminal Harassment

2 – Failure to Comply with Order

1 - False Alarm

2 – Harassing Communications

2 - Mental Health Act

TOWN OF HARDISTY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Proposed Land Use Bylaw 1284-25

Municipal Development Plan Amendment Bylaw 1283-25

Pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, being Chapter M-26 of the Statutes of Alberta, notice is hereby given that the Council of the Town of Hardisty will hold a public hearing prior to the second reading of the proposed new Land Use Bylaw 1284-25 and the Municipal Development Plan Amendment Bylaw 1283-25.

The Land Use Bylaw (LUB) serves as the “rule book” for the development within the Town of Hardisty. The LUB regulates the development of land and buildings on a site-specific basis, based on the policy directions set by the Municipal Development Plan (MDP). The LUB regulates how land can be used, including what uses are appropriate and where they can be located. The LUB aims to balance landowner’s rights with the interests of the community.

Some of the key provisions in the proposed Land Use Bylaw 1284-25 include:

• extensive revisions to the definitions, including deleting terms that are not used in the bylaw and ensuring every use in the bylaw is defined;

• clarification of the roles and responsibilities and powers of the development authority;

• clarification of what development does not require a development permit;

• updating the development permit processing requirement to meet the Municipal Government Act, such as the types of notices issued and gaining consent for email communications;

• revisions to the general and specific regulations;

• updating the permitted and discretionary uses in each land use district, such as increasing the uses that are in the permitted uses category;

• updating the regulations in each district;

• ensuring the bylaw is clear and well-organized.

The purpose of the Municipal Development Plan Amendment Bylaw 1283-25 is to ensure consistency between the Town’s MDP and LUB, including removing barriers for home occupations, removing parking and landscaping regulations.

Should you wish to address council in person, a public hearing for Bylaws 128425 and 1283-25 will be held in the Town of Hardisty office at 4807 49 Street, Hardisty, on July 8, 2025 commencing at 7:00 p.m. Council will hear from any person claiming to be affected by the proposed bylaws.

Additionally, written comments may be delivered to 4807 49 Street, Hardisty, Alberta, T0B 1V0 or emailed to bobbi@hardisty.ca; submissions will be received up to July 7, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.

The proposed Bylaws 1284-25 and 1283-25 can be reviewed online at hardisty.ca, or copies may be picked up Monday through Friday at 4807 49 Street, Hardisty from 9:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

2 - Moving Traffic –Speeding Violations

1 – Municipal Bylaws –Other 4 - Other Non-Moving Traffic

4 - Other Provincial/Territorial Statutes (not otherwise specified) - Other Activities 3 - Traffic Collisions 4 - Wellbeing Check Provided by Killam RCMP Detachment

STEFAN CLOUTIER MANAGER

CWRS - AAC Brandon - Improved Rated MR for FHB resistance

- Most widely grown CWRS variety in Western Canada for 5 years

CWRS - AAC Wheatland VB

-Wheat Midge tolerant

- Very good lodging resistance

CWSWS - AC Andrew - Great silage option

-In demand by milling and ethanol industries

Yellow Peas:

CDC Canary - Improved standability

-Early maturity

-Higher Yielding

Faba Beans:

CDC 219-16 - Zero Tannin

- Seed is smaller than Snowbird, larger than CDC Snowdrop

6-Row Feed Barley:

AB Advantage - Improved plump and bushel weight - Smooth awned

-High grain and forage yield

2-Row Malt Barley:

CDC Copeland - Strong demand by malting companies GREAT NORTHERN GRAIN Terminals Ltd.

CHSPS Graduates celebrate successes over weekend

Jaxyn Johnson
Ayden Gillis Emily Goodrich Adison Grove
Keaton Johnson
Allie Kelndorfer
Aleah Klatt
George Rosiechuk
Landon Rosiechuk Payten Schmutz Yuen Stanyer Taylor Turcotte
Brody Wallner Tony Yellowbird

PRICING

$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers 16,000 readers

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Celebration of Life for Darren James Young

Please join us as we gather to honor and remember the life of Darren James Young.

A Celebration of Life will be held on:

Saturday, July 12th, 2025 2:00 PM

Royal Canadian Legion, Killam 5117 51 Ave, Killam, Alberta

This will be a time to share stories, memories, and reflect on his life. All are welcome to attend. Light refreshments will be served. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider a donation to a charity of your choice in Darren’s memory.

25/26p

COMING EVENTS

Viking Municipal Library

Summer Hours starting July 2, 2025

Tues: 1 pm - 7 pm

Wed: 10 am - 6 pm

Thurs: 10 am - 6 pm 25/26c

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

COMING EVENTS

Toonie Clothing Sale

Thursday, June 26 1 p.m to 6 p.m.

Friday, June 27 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 28 9 a.m. to Noon Daysland United Church - Celebrating 30 Years! -

CLASSIFIEDS

FOR SALE

St. Peter's Mass and Blessing of Graves Sunday, June 29/25 at 2 p.m. Everyone Welcome. 23/24p

FOR RENT

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.) FOR SALE

MUST SELL

2016 Dodge Grand Caravan Great Shape. $6,200. Located in Viking. 250-777-8868

Used tires; one 215/65 R16 with rim. One P215/70 R15 with rim. Two 215/55 R16 no rims. One 235/65 R16 with rim. One 195/70 R14. Two 215/55 R16 no rims. One P195/65 no rim. One 235/65 R16 rim only. Tent trailer, stove, fridge, sink, furnace, etc needs work. Phone 1-780-603-8812 with offers. TMP25-26

WORD SEARCH

INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678 www.integritybuilt.com

2015 25ft bumper pull Coachman Freedom Express trailer, Model 233 RBS. Two slides, sleeps four. Call 780-336-6585 for details. 21/22p

Registered Red & Black Angus bulls for sale. Call 780-986-9088

LL24/27

WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 225. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. Quality guaranteed.

HELP WANTED

Live-in caregiver for male in a wheelchair. Living in Round Hill area. Wages etc to be discussed. Email resume to: broblin.br@gmail.com or phone 604-793-3756 TM24-25P

HELP WANTED

——————

Senior Citizen living north of Tofield needs a person to mow lawn once per month May - Sept. Self-propelled lawn mower available. Call 780-662-4977 TMP25

————————————————

THE LAKESIDE LEADER is hiring a reporter/photographer for an ongoing, full-time position in Slave Lake. Must have own car and camera. Email resume to: joemc@lakesideleader.com.

————————————————

DID YOU KNOW? YOU CAN GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ALL ACROSS ALBERTA FOR 1 AFFORDABLE PRICE! The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads Network both reach over 500,000 Alberta readers weekly and are also published online. Three options starting at $269, $299 or $599 to get your message out! KEEP people in the loop with over 75 Weekly Community Newspapers. Email: producton.cp@gmail.com

SERVICES

————————————Elderly Care. Not ready to let go of your freedom (but needing support)? Cooking. Baking. Cleaning. Yard Work. Gardening. Serving Viking-Sedgewick-KillamBruce-Hardisty-Irma. Call Jackie (780) 385-1019 25/28c

———————————————— Viking Colony We Repair and Service Old Farm Equipment! Call 780-385-6424 to Make Arrangements 25/28p

————————————————

HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. 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.

————————————————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.

————————————————-

PRICING

$20/wk for the

first 35 words

45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers

16,000 readers

SERVICES

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

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

answers

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

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.

Crossword

Man charged in 2019 Homicide of Wetaskiwin resident

Twyla Evans

After an extensive sixyear investigation, the Alberta RCMP Historical Homicide Unit has made an arrest in connection with the 2019 disappearance and homicide of Twyla Evans, a vulnerable woman whose body has not been recovered to date.

The victim, who was 39-years-old at the time of her disappearance, was reported missing in September of 2019. She was a resident of the City of Wetaskiwin, which is where investigators have confirmed she was last seen alive.

Despite exhaustive search efforts, her remains have not been located.

Investigators, however, continued to pursue all available leads, and recent developments led to the arrest of Stan Cross, a 49-year-old male, who is now charged with 1st Degree Murder in Twyla’s death.

“This was a particularly heartbreaking case due to the significant vulnerabilities the victim faced in her daily life,” said Insp. John Spaans, Officer in Charge of the Wetaskiwin RCMP Detachment.

“From the onset of the investigation our Wetaskiwin RCMP officers worked closely with the Serious Crimes Branch and are grateful to see the investigation has progressed to the point where charges have been laid.”

Stan Cross was arrested without incident on June 20, and was remanded into custody.

The matter is now before the courts and no further details will be released to protect the integrity of the judicial process. His first appearance was scheduled for Tuesday, June 24 at the Court of Kings Bench in Wetaskiwin.

Rambling about Wellness

“You don’t have to let your past define your future.” -

Tanya Muzinda

At just nine months old, Tanya Muzinda was diagnosed as immunodeficient. To protect her fragile health, her family moved her out of Harare, Zimbabwe, and into seclusion for four years - away from playgrounds, birthday parties, even public clinics. Those early years of isolation cast her into deep loneliness, a fate all too familiar for many African children without consistent medical care.

By age five, treatment and home-based nurturing had strengthened her immunity enough to return to the city.

Yet after years of confinement, fear can become comfort - and many remain hidden rather than rejoin the world.

Tanya chose a different path. She vowed to emerge from the shadows, showing other children that illness need not become life’s defining story.

A family friend invited the Muzindas to Donnybrook Raceway in Harareand Tanya’s life changed forever. Straddling her first motocross bike, she felt something she’d never known in isolation: exhila-

ration. Her natural aptitude was unmistakable. In her very first tournament, she placed second; soon after, she became Zimbabwe’s first female motocross champion.

Word of Tanya’s grit quickly spread. By December 2015, at just 11 years old, she was chosen as the face of a major children’s hospital in Zimbabwe. Her vibrant determination became a beacon of hope for children confined by their own diagnoses. Hospitals hung her image in waiting rooms, reminding every young patient that “change and achievement require effort and endurance - but they are possible.”

Inspiring a Generation Today, Tanya travels the globe, competing in international motocross events and using her voice to uplift others through causes like the Day of the African

Child and the International Day of the Girl Child. In a recent speech, she urged adults everywhere:

“Children are the future of this world… Let us dream big and help them explore the world.” Her message transcends borders and backgrounds. Whether you face illness, injury, fear, or doubt, you don’t have to spend your life in hiding.

A Moment of Reflection

Are you still living in the shadows?

Do you still fear that public space?

Do you feel judged when you step outside? What would it take for you to feel free?

Tanya’s story is not just about racing. It’s about reclaiming life. About stepping out - even tremblingand saying: I am here. I deserve joy, freedom, and a future.

Poilievre

Continued from B-Front

becomes your MP on by-election day. He has been fighting for the values that we all stand for as the leader of this party since I got to know him when I was first elected in 2019.”

Poilievre was asked if he was planning to live in the region, and he replied, “I’m not, I actually live in a hotel room. I live in hotel rooms in Sault Ste. Marie, in BC, and across the country. The Leader of the Opposition resides, typically, in the Capitol.

“But I do plan to be in community, in the region, and the communities in the region as often as possible to maintain the connection.”

Poilievre said his government would continue to fight the Chinese tariffs, and introduce consequences to continued agricultural tariffs, especially against the Chinese, a “massively export-driven economy.” He said regarding the USA, he’s hoping the president will reverse his “protectionist agenda,” allowing Canada to resume being, ‘the greatest trading partner the United States has ever

had.’ He said, “America does have problems with foreign trading partners; but Canada’s not one of them.”

He talked about increasing spending on the military and continental defence of our shared interests, about slowing down immigration to let housing, jobs, and healthcare catch up. He talked about removing barriers for immigrant nurses and doctors, as well as other professionals.

Kurek said the evening was about having local people having an opportunity to speak with Poilievre. He reiterated that it is up to the Prime

Minister to call the by-election, which they are hoping will happen in the next few weeks, putting voting in August.

“Obviously, you need to make sure to vote for Poilievre. Even though it’s a by-election, your vote matters, and it matters that you make the time to vote when that time comes.”

People were then given an opportunity to talk with and have photos taken with Poilievre, who stayed until the line was done.

The Hardisty Fire Department acted as security for the evening.

NW 23-50-17 W4M

Being 160 Acres M/L

Starting Price: $200,000.00

This quarter has 40 cultivated acres seeded back to grass using the Duelmaster blend from Nutrien. A new fence has been installed and there is a 5-acre non-habitat area on the quarter that can be used as a potential development site in the future.

Real Estate Auction for Ducks Unlimited

NW 19-48-17 W5M Being 158.97 Acres M/L

Starting Price: $320,000.00

This quarter is pastureland and fully fenced. There is a 5-acre non-habitat area on the quarter that can be used as a development site in the future

Parcel #3

Selling as a 1/2 Section

SW 25-55-15 W4M Being 157.99 Acres M/L & the NW 25-55-15 W4M Being 154.09 Acres M/L

Starting Price: $500,000.00

This half section had approximately 160 cultivated acres that were seeded down to Grass (Meadow Bromegrass, Alfalfa, Tall Fescue, Slender Wheat Grass, Greenleaf Pubescent Wheatgrass).

There is a 5-acre non-habitat area on both quarters that can be developed in the future

Parcel #1
Parcel #2

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.