The Community
Press Telling your story
Volume 112, Issue 46
Wednesday, May 20, 2020
$1 Including GST
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The Battle River Pipes and Drums band took step two of their official Quarantine Tour in Flagstaff on Saturday, May 16. The tour started in Hardisty, where they stopped at Parkland Manor before moving on to the Hardisty Health Centre. They moved on after that to Sedgewick, with a stop at the Cenotaph on Main Street, then to the Triplex on 48th Street, moving on to Prairie Rose Place before hopping in their vehicles to Killam. In Killam, the group started at Killam Estates, then moved to Killam Long Term Care, and finished at Manitou Manor. They had great weather throughout, and everywhere they stopped, people came out to hear them play. Above, the band at Killam Long Term Care, where they played both sides of the building to make sure everyone got to see. The group got great feedback everywhere they went. The tour moves next to Lloydminster on May 30, before returning to Flagstaff June 13 and June 27, so if you missed them, or want to see them again, stay tuned!
Multiple assault charges, busy month for local RCMP Leslie Cholowsky Editor, with files from Cpl. Trent Cleveland
Killam RCMP members responded to 84 occurrences over the first two-week period in May. RCMP attended two 911 hangups. Revised protocol now means members must clear 911 calls in person. Members had calls about two abandoned motor vehicles. Police received a call to put down an injured deer. Members responded to four complaints of assault during this period: A 38-year-old female from Sedgewick was charged with assault. A 22-year-old male from Sedgewick was charged with two counts of assault. A 25-year-old male from Camrose was investigated for an assault. An Emergency Protection Order was put into place. A 38-year-old male from Lougheed and a 42-year-old male from Killam were involved in a physical altercation. RCMP attended and resolved the situation without charges.
One complaint of assault with a weapon was encountered as Killam members assisted Viking RCMP. Members assisted other provincial agencies with seven different requests, including emergency medical assists, fish and wildlife, other police services, and a landlord/tenant situation. RCMP had one complaint of a breach of release conditions. Members were called to two sudden death situations. Police received a complaint of criminal harassment. RCMP are investigating a failure to remain at a motor vehicle collision. A failure to comply with conditions complaint led to a 37-year-old female from Killam being charged. RCMP received three false alarm calls. In an instance of flight from a police officer, RCMP charged a male from Killam with flight from police officers, resisting arrest/obstructing police, and four provincial Motor Vehicle Act violations. RCMP are investigating complaints of one fraud under $5,000, and two fraud over $5,000.
RCMP received a complaint of harassing communications. Two found items were returned to RCMP to be reunited with owners. Members responded to three calls under the Mental Health Act, as a result two persons were apprehended and transported to the nearest facility on separate occasions. Four complaints of mischief were made. RCMP charged one person with impaired driving (over 0.08) and one impaired operation of a motor vehicle. Three provincial violation tickets and one liquor and gaming ticket were written during this period, along with two moving violation occurrences. Police provided assistance to members of the public over various disputes on five occasions. Six complaints of theft under $5,000 are being investigated. Four occurrences involving possession of property obtained by crime were also dealt with by Killam RCMP. Seven suspicious persons or vehicles were reported during this period. One complaint of theft of utilities was
made to police. RCMP had one truck theft reported to them in May. Ten motor vehicle collisions were reported to police. One complaint of trespass was made. Members dealt with two complaints of threats being uttered. RCMP were asked to perform three wellbeing checks. Corporal Trent Cleveland, Acting Commander in the Killam Detachment, says that mental health support is important to the RCMP, adding, “Public safety remains a top priority for the Alberta RCMP. “We do respond to suicide-related calls and assist how we can. “We acknowledge that our ability to keep people safe only goes so far, and we encourage all Albertans to reach out for help when they need it.” Confidential supports are available to help with mental health concerns. The Mental Health Help Line 1-877-303-2642 (toll free) and the Addiction Help Line 1-866-332-2322 are available 24-hours per day, seven days per week. See RCMP P14
Page 2 - The Community Press, Wednesday, May 20, 2020
Local mourning for lost Snowbird Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Over the past few weeks, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds have travelled the country in an initiative called “Operation Inspiration,” a tribute to front line workers battling COVID-19, and those suffering from the virus, giving thousands of people the opportunity to see them fly over their communities, from the east coast to BC. The reactions of people in the path of the tour were heartfelt and appreciative. One woman from Saskatchewan said, “That was awesome, you flew right over my house and I burst into tears.” Another person who saw the team in Ontario said, “Thank you for uplifting everyone from east to west and for helping cheer up the front line workers.” On Sunday, May 17, the unthinkable happened, when Snowbird 11, piloted by Captain Richard MacDougall and with Public Affairs Officer Captain Jenn Casey aboard, developed problems shortly after takeoff near Kamloops, forcing both occupants to eject from the cockpit. Captain MacDougall was seriously injured, and Captain Casey fatally injured in the incident. The Snowbirds are truly a national treasure, and it was an honour to host them in our region last July, to welcome them into our family, and to be included as a part of theirs. Not only did the Snowbirds perform in the skies over Flagstaff, one day earlier Snowbirds pilots and ground personnel took part in a meet and greet at the Flagstaff Regional Airport, where residents got an opportunity to interact with these outstanding young men and women in person. Captain MacDougal joined the team in August, after the Flagstaff event, but Captain Casey was one of the Snowbirds members who visited Flagstaff, and made a real impression on everyone
Captain Jenn Casey was part of the Snowbird team to visit Flagstaff last July (above, right) and made a positive impression on everyone she met and worked with in the region. who met her. We join our fellow Canadians in mourning the loss of Jenn Casey, who not only helped at the show, but helped from behind the scenes in setting up an interview with a pilot prior to their visit to the area. Casey was a journalist prior to joining the Royal Canadian Air Force, and those who knew her well described her as “warm and outgoing with a terrific sense of humour.” Iron Creek Flying Club member Gary Steadman says, “I want to express my personal condolences as well as heartfelt grief on behalf of the Iron Creek Flying Club for the passing of Capt. Jenn Casey, Public Affairs Officer of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds Team.” He also expressed on behalf of himself and the club their best wishes for Captain MacDougall’s full recovery. Steadman added, “We met Capt. Casey only very briefly at the most extraordinary event of the Snowbirds over Flagstaff last summer but her contagious optimism and her community spirit will stay with us forever. “She truly enjoyed her job as an integral part of the Snowbirds Team and went out of her way to meet and work with our clubs, organizations, and community to make the event truly memorable. “She especially seemed to enjoy meeting and talking with the young people that were attracted to her presence, and she both described
and demonstrated the tremendous teamwork and professionalism that make the Snowbirds a proud symbol of Canada. “She will be greatly missed by all of Canada, but no less so from our small community that met her only briefly. “Thank you, Capt. Casey, for a job well done.”
The Community Press, Wednesday, May 20, 2020 - Page 3
Long weekend sun leads to impromptu garden Ally Anderson Killam News
Howdy my fellow Killamites! I am proud to say I am now an auntie now to TWO boys. My sister was well overdue this last week, and finally had her baby this weekend. She also took her time deciding on a name, and chose Calvin. You can rest easy knowing I’m about to purchase a tiger plushie to send to them with the nametag “Hobbes.” He was a big boy, coming it at almost 10 pounds exactly. Much bigger than his older brother Tucker, who has been hounding my sister and brother-inlaw for months about when the baby is coming to play. She was able to take Calvin home today (Tuesday, May 19), so I have yet to hear how Tucker dealt with it. I’m just sad she lives all the way on Vancouver Island, so we can’t just pack up and go visit immedi-
ately. But, with the whole COVID-19 situation still happening, that may not be such a bad thing. Did you get a lot done this may long weekend? I saw a lot of campers driving out of town, and what a beautiful weekend to be out camping for once! Eric and I just had minor plans to plant flowers and clean the yard, but our neighbour Roger had bigger and better plans. He popped his head over the fence Saturday early evening, and chatted about if we ever wanted a garden in our yard. Next thing you know, the tiller was roaring in the back corner and Eric was hauling dirt over from nextdoor. By the next evening, the garden was completely planted. From boring corner of grass to functional garden in 24 hours! I can’t thank our wonderful neighbours enough for all of their help. We definitely lucked out when they moved in.
Hopefully we have a decent crop on our first attempt. My dad won’t be able to put his garden in this year as their new house will be completed around August and they will be moving out of the family home into their forever home. I’m hoping this year we at least grow enough to share with him, since he’s been very generous sharing with us in the past. I have misplaced my Killam Community Calendar here at home, so I unfortunately do not have access to the birthdays and anniversaries this week for this Killam News! My apologies! Next week, I’ll post them all in a megacelebration. If you’ve been itching to renew your paper or place an ad and prefer to do these things in person, after two months we’re going to do a soft re-open of our CP office here in Killam. Starting Friday, we’ll be open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Social distancing rules will be
in effect, but we’re happy to help with whatever you need. We’ll be open again next Wednesday and pickup subscribers can once again start grabbing their papers. From there, we should have a better idea of what our “new normal” hours look like. It won’t be five days to start, but likely three. The safety and comfort of our staff is still our main priority so that we can keep putting out papers every week with no risk of interruption due to illness. The COVID infection numbers are looking good now, but we’re not out of the woods yet. As things slowly ease back to normal, there’s bound to be some bumps in the road. Especially if US-Canada border restrictions are lifted. But for now, we want to start seeing our customers again and find that happy balance. Anyway, feel free to stop in on Friday and I hope we’ll see you then.
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Killam, Alberta 780-385-3598 Serving Town & Country since 1962
Temporary Hours: 9-5 Mon thru Fri, 9-4 Saturday & Closed Sunday. Closed Noon - 1pm EVERY DAY!
Highlighted Businesses: Killam Home Hardware Building Centre Open 9am - 5:30pm Monday - Saturday Hardware, Lumber, Paint, Housewares, Plumbing, Automotive, Gardening and Outdoor Living 780-385-2364 killam@homehardware.ca
Shelcraft Woodwork Open 8am - 4pm Cabinets & Countertops 780-385-2344 shelcraf@telusplanet.net
Killam Plumbing & Heating (5517 - 51 Ave.) Office Hours 8am – 1pm Plumbing, heating, gas fitting, and 5 gallon water refills or delivery within Killam 780-385-3562
Flagstaff Community Adult Learning Tuesday - Friday, 9am - 5pm Online tutoring, resume coaching, job board, fax & printing 780-385-3712 director@fcal.net
Campbell-McLennan Chrysler Monday - Thursday 8:30am – 5:30pm and Fridays 8am – 5pm Sales/Service/Parts 780-385-2121 campbellmclennan.com
Budding Ideas Flowers And Gifts / Paw Prints Custom Framing Tuesday - Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday 10am - 2pm, Closed noon hour (12 - 1) We will be offering CURBSIDE and DELIVERY service only for the foreseeable future. 780-385-3014
Jam Tarts Mon - Fri, 7am - 11am until May 30; 7am to 2pm in June. Breakfast and coffee 780-385-2222
Crafty Creations Tuesday - Friday, 10:30am - 2pm and by appointment Also delivery to Killam and Sedgewick 780-385-2153
The Community Press Office Re-Opening to the public Friday, May 22 9am - 1pm & Wednesday, May 27 9am - 3pm. Weekly Newspaper, Commercial Printing, Stamps, Design, Pom Poms. Don’t forget to advertise! 780-385-6693 ads@thecommunitypress.com
Vision Credit Union 9:30am – 5pm Full banking services. 780-385-4074
Page 12 - The Community Press, Wednesday, May 20, 2020
Feds expand business loans program Leslie Cholowsky Editor The Government of Canada announced Tuesday that it has expanded the Canada Emergency Business Account to owner-operated small businesses, including sole proprietors and familyowned corporations.
For businesses whose payroll is less than $20,000, eligibility requirements include a business operating bank account, a Canada Revenue Agency business number, with a 2018 or 2019 tax return on file, and eligible expenses between $40,000 and $1.5 million; including rent,
May 2020 Meetings
Council Meetings Cancelled/Rescheduled Meeting
Flagstaff County Council Meetings are conducted the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month commencing at 9 a.m. unless otherwise planned. Council and Committee meeting agendas are available at the County’s website at: flagstaff.ab.ca/council/meetings-andminutes
780-384-4100 1-877-387-4100 Email: Stay Connected with Us:
Monday to Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed Noon - 1 p.m.)
Address:
12435 Township Road 442 P.O. Box 358 Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0
property taxes, utilities, and insurance. Expenses will be subject to verification and audit by the federal government. The launch date for applications is to be announced at a later date. To date, more than 600,000 small businesses across the country have
accesses the program in its original form. The government says it will work on potential solutions to help business owners and entrepreneurs who operate through their personal bank accounts, as opposed to a business account, or who have yet to file a tax return, such as newly created businesses.
Sedgewick Legion makes donations Leslie Cholowsky Editor
The Sedgewick Legion Branch #55 recently made some local donations through their casino funds.In all, the group gave out $15,500 to local groups. Unlike previous years, no official cheque presentations were made due to social distancing rules.
The Legion gave funds to the Sedgewick Rec Centre, Sedgewick Community Hall, Sedgewick Public Library, Sedgewick Memorial Cemetery, Sedgewick Minor Ball, CHSPS Breakfast Program, Hardisty Lake United Church Camp, Battle River Knights Minor Hockey, Flagstaff Christmas Sharing, and Sedgewick Playschool.
The Community Press, Wednesday, May 20, 2020 - Page 13
Killam woman warns of convincing credit card scam Leslie Cholowsky Editor Liz DeAbreu of Killam answered a phone call this week that set off a series of events she’d rather not repeat. “The caller said she was from Mastercard Security,” DeAbreu says. “She was calling to tell me that a charge from Germany had been made to Amazon for $900 using my card.” DeAbreu initially scoffed at the statement. “I know I’ve been home for weeks, I haven’t even used my card during that period. I was thinking ‘how could someone have got my number?’” She says she kept denying it to the caller, who was insistent that her card was in danger. “She gave me her code name and her phone number then,” says DeAbreu, adding, “this woman had a beautiful voice, and she was so friendly, and so concerned about me, I was very nearly convinced.” Then came the clincher; the caller told DeAbreu: “I have the first four numbers of your Mastercard, now I need you to give me the next numbers so I can make sure it’s you.”
The caller went so far as to tell her that they needed her voice on record to confirm the number. That’s where DeAbreu really took a step back. “She was so, so convincing, and I was already upset to think that someone else had my card, but something about what she said made me reluctant to take that next step.” Instead, DeAbreu told the caller she wanted to call her back. “I asked if I could have her call back number; she agreed readily, and gave me her code name again, her real name, and a phone number.” DeAbreu hung up and immediately called her bank. They assured her that there was no unusual activity in her bank account. Next, with husband Mike’s help finding a number independently from the caller, she called the credit card company. “They told me it was such a good thing that I had called them.” They, too, confirmed that there had been absolutely no unusual activity on her card, and no $900 charge to Amazon. They even went one step further and told her they would send out a new card
right away, even though they were certain the old card had not been compromised. DeAbreu asked how the caller knew the first four numbers of her card, and was told that these numbers are common to many cards, “They called it a guessed number.” Mastercard assured her that it was the remaining numbers, the ones she didn’t give, that are the important ones. DeAbreu was very shaken after the call. “She was a real pro. She almost convinced me that I’d been defrauded. She kept me talking, and I was nearly convinced.” Some instinct kept her from giving out her full card number, and she’s very thankful she didn’t fall for it. She’s also worried that others might not be as lucky. Scams work because scammers know that the more upset you are, the less likely you are to be able to think things through clearly before acting, and the more likely you are to follow their instructions. DeAbreu was very unsettled after the incident. “I can’t believe that there are
people out there who would do this to someone.” She wants to share her story, because if someone else receives a call like this, she wants them to know about the scam, and to keep themselves from being de-
frauded. “I told a few friends, and my children. I think it is a good idea for more people to know, and to talk about it with their family members.” She understands that the
chief tool against being scammed is knowledge, and hopes that by sharing her experience, she can give someone else the tools to recognize when someone has targeted them for a similar scam.
Benchmark
Public Works Updates Please refer to www.flagstaff.ab.ca for up-to-date road work happening throughout the County.
Dust Suppressant
Gravel
Crews have been spraying strategic locations with MG 30 dust suppressant and will continue to do so throughout the upcoming week. All MG 30 dust suppressant application is dependent on weather conditions.
Gravel is available for sale to a maximum of 150 tonnes/year per residential/farm/acreage site. Gravel is not available for sale to commercial users. Anyone wishing to purchase gravel must contact the Public Works Department to obtain a “Permission for Purchase of Gravel” form. Gravel will not be loaded out of a pit without this form. Gravel sales will be limited to the following dates in 2020: •May 20th •June 3rd and 17th •July 8th and 22nd •August 5th and 19th •September 9th and 23rd •October 7th and 21st
Road Construction Road Closures The following roads will be closed for approximately three weeks starting May 4th, 2020 for road construction: • Range Road 114, for 1.0 mile from Twp Rd 435 to Twp Rd 434 • Township Road 402, for approximately 1.5 miles from Hwy 872 to Twp Rd 402A
Road Recovery Crews will begin working on the following shoulder pulling project the week of May 25th: • Northeast of Daysland on Township Road 454, west from Range Road 160 for 0.5 miles.
Gravel sales are limited to the following gravel pits: Mazure Pit (NE 16-43-09 W4); Skori Pit #2 (N 1/2 09-46-11 W4); Barber Stockpile (NE 17-44-09 W4); and Daysland Stockpile (SE 13-45-17 W4), providing a loader is available at that gravel pit on that particular day. Please call John Guhle, Field Coordinator - Gravel, at 780-390-0321 to make arrangements or to obtain information regarding a list of available aggregate products and pricing. Flagstaff County does not haul gravel for ratepayers. Hauling arrangements must be made by the ratepayer.
Please keep in mind that our seasonal crews will be out working on our roadways and to use extreme caution while travelling on these roads while they are being maintained in any way. We thank you in advance for your cooperation during this season.