May 20 Lamont Leader by Caribou Publishing

led to church improvements - 3 Camping season opens in Mundare - 6 Don’t forget to congratulate your grad - 8/9 OPINION: Let democracy rule in vote - 4

Glider pilot killed near Chipman

BY JOHN MATHER

A pilot is dead after a glider crash near Chipman on Monday afternoon. Mounties from the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP detachment were called to respond to a glider crash in Lamont County at 3:10 p.m.

Police said the pilot was declared dead at the scene when officers arrived. They said there were no other victims.

Police are not releasing details about the pilot because Howell says next-ofkin had not yet been notified.

The Transportation Safety Board of

Canada

team of investigators to determine the cause of the accident.

Weather conditions, pilot or mechanical error are typical reasons for glider accidents which are as a whole fairly uncommon although two were killed in a crash with a tow plane near Black Diamond, Alberta in a 2019.

It is unknown if the pilot was a member of the Edmonton Soaring Club but the group operates out of Chipman “from Spring thaw to Winter freeze,” says its website which has no mention of the accident.

Bruderheim volunteers help solve gopher infestation problems

BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG

A recent act of community support is helping shine a spotlight on an ongoing issue affecting sports fields, playgrounds and green spaces in Bruderheim — a growing infestation of gophers.

This week, the Bruderheim Minor Sports Association raised concerns about the number of gopher holes scattered throughout local soccer and Tball fields, creating a potential safety hazard for children during games and practices.

“With kids running full speed during games and practices, the risk of injuries was very real,” the association shared.

Community businesses quickly stepped in to help address the issue. Deadbolt Storage Ltd. donated topsoil, while BM Services Outdoors volunteered to deliver it, allowing a team of volunteers to immediately begin filling holes and repairing damaged areas on the fields.

The association said the support highlights the importance of local businesses giving back to the community and investing in youth recreation.

“Your support helps create a safer

The field repairs come as Bruderheim experiences a noticeable increase in gopher activity this spring.

Bruderheim COO, Dennis Tomushcat stated at a recent council meeting, “More traps have been acquired by the Town, we now have 60 traps. The Town is actively trapping the rodents”.

He also added that a quote from an exterminator was over $50,000, just for the AG grounds, and there was no guarantee.

Despite the common name, Alberta “gophers” are actually most often Richardson’s ground squirrels — a native rodent species that lives in colonies throughout the Prairies.

While they serve as an important food source for predators, they are also considered a major agricultural pest due to the damage they can cause to crops, pastures, and recreational areas. Their populations are known to rise in cycles, with periodic population booms occurring across the province.

For local sports groups, the concern is less about nuisance and more about safety, as the holes left behind can create dangerous conditions for children participating in outdoor activities.

says in a statement that the accident involved a privately regis-

tered Schleicher ASW 20. The TSB says it is deploying a

Schleicher ASW 20

environment for every child who steps onto our fields,” the association stated.

“We are incredibly grateful for businesses that continue to invest back into our community and our youth.”

A Gopher infestation is causing major damage and safety concerns at Bruderheim playgrounds and sports fields. - Melissa MacIntosh-Young photo.

2 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Lamont County clears water stations after cyber attack scare

BY GRANT JOHNSON

A cyber attack scare that shut down card payments at two local water stations has been declared a false alarm.

After a full investigation, Lamont County offi-

cials say there is no evidence of a cyber breach and no customer information was compromised at the Heartland and Hilliard water fill stations.

Debit and credit pay-

ment options were shut off in March as a precaution amid concerns about a possible attack. County council also approved up to $25,000 to investigate the incident.

With the review now

Registration open for the Reeve’s 13th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

BY GRANT JOHNSON

Registration is now open for the Reeve’s 13th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, set to take place August 20 at Whitetail Crossing Golf Course at Mundare.

The popular annual event supports the County of Lamont Food Bank and its Christmas Hamper Program. This

year, organizers say proceeds will also help fund the Food Bank Building Fund as the organization works toward constructing a new facility.

The tournament continues to be a major fundraiser in the region, bringing in nearly $40,000 last year.

Beyond the dollars raised, it’s also seen as a

key community event, drawing residents together for a day of golf and giving back.

Registration is $165 plus GST and includes a full day package with golf, breakfast, dinner, prizes, and swag.

Golfers can sign up as individuals, pairs, or teams by visiting the County’s website.

Notice of Election and Requirements for

Voter Identification Local Authorities Elections Act (Sections 12, 35, 46, 53)

LOCAL JURISDICTION: Town of Bruderheim, PROVINCE OF ALBERTA

Notice is hereby given that an election will be held for the filling of the following offices:

Office(s)

Number of Vacancies Ward or Electoral Division Number (if applicable)

Councillor1

Voting will take place on the 25 day of May, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Advance voting will take place on the 23 day of May, 2026, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Voting stations will be located at: Bruderheim Memorial Community Hall 5014 Queen Street, Bruderheim, AB T0B 0S0

In order to vote, you must produce for inspection one or more of the acceptable forms of identification required by section 53 of the Local Authorities Election Act.

To be an eligible voter in the Municipal By-Election, you must: Be 18 years of age or older

Be a Canadian Citizen Reside in the Municipality on election day ID requirements as per Section 53 of the Local Authorities Election Act: One piece of identification issued by the Canadian Federal, Provincial, or Local Government, containing your name and address of residence, that contains a photo, for example: Alberta Drivers License

Or one piece of identification authorized by the Chief Electoral Officer showing full name and current physical address, for example:

Bank Statement

Utility Bill

Property Tax Assessment

And either

Complete a statement to establish their eligibility to vote, or Be listed on the Permanent Electors Register.

DATED at the Town of Bruderheim, in the Province of Alberta, this 27th day of April, 2026.

complete, officials have restored card payment services at both locations.

The county has not indicated what triggered the initial concern but says the system is safe and fully operational.

TOWN OF LAMONT

2026 COMBINED ASSESSMENT/ TAX NOTICES

Notice is hereby given that the combined assessment/tax notices were mailed to all assessed persons in the Town of Lamont on May 14, 2026. All persons are deemed to have received their combined assessment/ tax notice as a result of this notice.

ASSESSMENT ROLL

Any person who objects to the assessment values placed upon a property must, within sixty (60) days from the notice of assessment, May 21, 2026, forward a complaint in writing together with a $50.00 fee per appeal to the Town of Lamont. The assessment roll can be viewed on the website. Alternatively, you can contact the Administration Office from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday for an appointment to view the roll.

PLEASE NOTE: Making a complaint against your assessment does not make you exempt from paying your taxes as a penalty will be applied if taxes are not paid in full by June 30, 2026.

TAX PAYMENTS

2026 Taxes are due and payable on or before June 30, 2026. Unpaid taxes are subject to a 12% penalty on July 1, 2026 and an 18% penalty on January 1, 2027.

Tyler Edworthy Chief Administrative Officer

Website: www.lamont.ca

Phone: 780-895-2010

Email: general@lamont.ca

New church roof result of parishioners’ devotion

BY JOHN MATHER

It sits well back from the road but the St. Michael Archangel Roman Catholic Church is testament to the caring and devotion that a small parish can receive for more than 100 years.

The church recently received a new roof but it is a visit inside the modest looking structure that really stands out.

“It’s the second roof that we have ever put on the church,” said parishioner Chris Klita. “Originally the church was built in 1915 and about 50 to 55 years ago it was re-roofed with cedar shakes.”

He said those had reached the end of life and the roof has now been replaced by a metal roof.

“We wanted the roof to last past our lives,” added Klita, whose uncle Father Peter Klita was ordained as a priest in 1935 and offered a service in the church. The brother of local resident Tom Adamyk, Father John Adamyk was ordained in 1964 and offered his

first mass at the church.

“The funny thing is we’re still here,” said Klita. “The Klita and Adamyk families are still here – members of the church.

“We want to keep the church for the next few generations.”

Klita said besides the roof, the parishioners would like to replace the eavestroughing, putting up a slightly larger system than currently exists.

“Beyond that we have a dream to paint it again,” added Klita. “It’s been painted three times during its life, the last being about 2000.”

“That was 26 years ago and we would love to do it again but we don’t know pricing,” he said. “If we could, we would probably re-side the church but that would be a phenomenal cost. Those are just dreams.”

He said he was very happy that people were so giving to the church. They had a fundraiser a few Saturdays ago

and “it’s just incredible what people will do when you ask for funds for a church.”

The fundraiser raised more than $20,000 towards the $50,000 roofing project. Klita added the price could increase by an additional $10,000 if the eavestroughing is included.

“We do have a fund from the archdiocese that the church can also draw upon.”

The archdiocese in Edmonton covers a large area. The St, Michael parish is connected with the Our Lady of Angels Church in Fort Saskatchewan, and under them there are two priests who take care of Redwater, Gibbons, Skaro, Lamont, St. Michael and the surrounding area.

“We have services here every second and fourth Sunday,” Klita added.

He said that 20 years ago the church almost shut down but the work of the Klita and Adamyk families and others put together a group and a plan was developed to use the priests more effectively.

“We started sharing with Skaro and now we just go back and fourth.”

Inside the church is beautiful artwork done by Peter Lipinski, done in 1925. On the ceiling is a painting of the Holy Trinity: Good, the Father; Christ and the Holy Ghost.

Carved and painted representations of the 14 Stations of the Cross adorn the

side walls of the church inscribed in Polish.

Those pieces of artwork were donated by the members of the Wostok parish.

Klita said the paintings were first created on canvas in a garage in Edmonton and then later applied to the church’s ceiling.

On average there are about 50 to 60 attendees to the regular services although Klita points out they are not necessarily all parishioners of the church.

He said the parishioners are mostly elderly.

Klita admits the artwork inside the church has no value except for the parishioners who recognize not only its beauty but its religious value.

“Vandalism is always in the back of our mind,” he says.

Several rural churches in Lamont County have been struck by vandals in recent years.

“We were broken into a few years ago and a few items were taken,” said Klita.

“The thieves think they’re stealing gold but everything is just a plated item. One of the items came back to us and they did actually find one of the thieves a few years later.”

“We’re going to put cameras up eventually.” He said.

“I’ve been a part of this church since I was born, all our parishioners are very proud of it.”

The ceiling mural of the Holy Trinity: God, the Father; Christ and the Holy Ghost is seen behind the main altar of wooden sculptures depicting Jesus Christ and two kneeling angels inside the St. Michael Archangel Roman Catholic Church. The mural was painted by Peter Lipinski in 1925. The rural Lamont County church just had a new roof installed to preserve its beauty well into the future.

Opinion

Let democracy rule and put separation question to a provincial vote

BY JOHN MATHER

I never thought I’d say democracy is dead in Canada, but it seems like that more and more every day.

To begin, we have an unelected majority Liberal government. This isn’t a government elected by the people, it's a majority government formed by sly, backroom deals where unscrupulous MPs ignored the people that voted for them and crossed the floor to the Liberal backbenches for unknown reasons.

And then we have an Alberta Court of King's Bench Justice Shaina Leonard ruling that the first nations must be consulted on a hypothetical position; and the desire to have a vote on that position by more than 700,000 Albertans doesn’t count for squat.

Should Alberta separate and form a separate country or should it remain a province in Canada?

That is the question being advocated by both the Forever Canadian group headed by Thomas Lukaszuk and the Stay Free Alberta group headed by businessman Mitch Sylvestre and several other separatist offshoot organizations.

Both Sylvestre and the provincial government have announced they will appeal this decision.

I’m glad.

Justice Leonard probably did more to advance the cause of Alberta separation with her ruling than any other person or group involved in any of the various sides to the independence debate.

The judge threw out an Alberta separatist petition Wednesday, ruling the province had a duty to consult with First Nations -- a decision quickly declared “antidemocratic” by Premier Danielle Smith.

Justice Leonard also said Alberta’s chief electoral officer should never have issued the referendum petition.

My question would be why does the province have to consult with the indigenous groups when the whole situation is hypothetical until a referendum has been held.

Once a yes to separate vote was approved by more than 50 per cent of the voters, then negotiations would begin.

CONTINUED

If the no to separation side prevailed in the vote, the whole situation becomes dead in the water and there’s no need to negotiate with anyone.

Lukaszuk feels the Trudeau appointed judge was correct in her decision.

Of course he wanted a referendum on his petition to stay in Canada, but when he realized it could be voted down and that would be seen as approval to separate he decided he wanted to override a democratic vote of all Albertans and have the legislature decide the outcome.

If Alberta is to remain in Canada or separate I believe it should be up to every Albertans to cast a vote since they will be the ones affected by the outcome.

And that includes all indigenous peoples who do have the right to vote despite their chiefs trying to curtail that right through court rulings.

NDP leader Naheed Nenshi, for what it’s worth, has declared the judge was correct in her ruling and he doesn’t want to see Albertans, which would include many union workers who usually support the NDP, have the right to exercise their own vote.

“This is a decision by one judge,” said Smith. “We think that this decision is incorrect in law and anti-democratic, and we will be appealing it as a result.”

“As a matter of logic and common sense,

there can be no doubt that Alberta’s secession from Canada will have an impact on Treaties 7 and 8,” the judge wrote.

I can agree with that, but what are they consulting on?

Nothing!

Without a vote nothing has been decided. Inadvertently, or possibly not, this judge and her decision has put the hypothetical situation on the national station.

Social media has erupted with people offering their opinions, some valid, some not and some that don’t even rate consideration; they are so far fetched, something which social media regulations seem to thrive on.

Suddenly the eastern columnists are writing about the possibility of Alberta separation. Like the judge, they are putting the proverbial cart before the horse.

The issue has not been voted on so there is nothing to worry about.

Right now it’s all talk. And no action. When a vote is held, and I still believe that will happen in the fall, then based on the outcome of negotiations, not only with the indigenous groups and their treaty rights, but with the Federal government on how a separation could be achieved and what would be at stake.

Meanwhile the more ranting and more ink the situation is given the more credibility, for better or worse, the possibility of Alberta leaving Canada receives.

Just put the damn question to a vote!

Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter Melissa Young Reporter Grant Johnson

BY HAZEL ANAKA

Anyone who knows me has heard me say that if last year was my last year running a combine, I’m totally okay with that. Guess what? One day Roy comes into my office to tell me he’s renting out the land. Tells me. Done deal. No discussion, no back and forth, no give and take, no opinion being sought.

After the shock subsided, I did a fist pump. Or maybe I imagined doing a fist pump. Either way I was happy and relieved. In recent years I’d brought up the subject but you can imagine how that went over. I was glad there wasn’t any fighting over the issue. I was glad he was making a proactive decision not when a guy’s back is up against the wall. Or when a health emergency has forced one’s hand. He had a preferred renter in

FROM WHERE I SIT: Good News, Bad News

mind and that day reached out to him.

I’ve long been a believer in the truth of this statement: it’s not what happens to us but how we react to what happens to us that matters. It is not an exaggeration to say that this is an emotional, life-altering decision. After more than 50 consecutive years of having the life cycle of crops and livestock defining and giving structure to your life, quitting cold turkey is a shock to the system. At Provody, I told someone now I can go to a corn maze or jump into a pile of leaves this fall because I’m not on call to combine. In case you’re tempted to hold me to my word, back off….it’s the simple knowledge I could if I wanted to, more than the actual doing that is so freeing. So, back to that truth. Roy and/or I could look at this new situation as a loss, a step closer to death, the end of an era, a sad and tragic turn. Or, or, or we could choose to believe it was a good life that served us and our two kids well but it’s high time to slow down, take things easier, live a little without the stress of a weather-dependent career. It could be a time for

Lamont

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travel or doing those jobs that always took the back seat to farming. It could be a time for road trips, hanging out. It is time freedom that retirement offers and isn’t that something we’ve always wanted; more hours in a day.

He still has his county councillor duties to keep the mind sharp and the engagement with others vibrant. And of course, the winding down of a lifelong business doesn’t happen on its own. We’ll be making an appointment with our accountant to do some estate planning. During our tax appointment we heard about a client who had a farm dispersal sale that yielded $4million. The family now has a $2million tax bill. That’s not how most of us want to see our life’s work end. All those very legal and useful tax laws that eased the farm tax burden may now be coming home to roost. Income deferral, inventory, capital cost allowance, rollovers, and capital gains all take on a new importance at the point of retirement. We’ll opt for a phased in, systematic dispersal of assets to cushion the tax blow.

I have always urged

Roy to develop some interests, hobbies, pastimes, for this very phase of his life. Most of us don’t have to look far or think long about some man who dropped dead within months of retiring. Those with plans and projects and interests live on.

The idea of loving and respecting the land doesn’t end with a rental agreement. We will continue to care about the

weather, the rainfall, the harvest even if we have no skin in the game. Because that’s what being a lifelong farmer and a landowner is all about.

Wanting the land to produce without exploiting or ruining it. Wanting hardworking farmers to earn a decent living.

Wanting to ensure food security for Canada and beyond.

I consider this a good news story, the natural

progression in a life welllived, and the way things are supposed to play out. The bad news is denying the reality of one’s age and situation. Refusing to make decisions is a decision. Far better to be proactive when a person’s mind and body allow for more clearheaded decisions and have the time and opportunity to enjoy the fruits of one’s labour. Anything else is bad news, from where I sit.

From the files of the Lamont Leader

From the March 15, 2016 issue of the Lamont Leader: Thieves pulverized Lamont’s Servus Credit Union on Monday morning when a stolen Massey Ferguson 1085 tractor with a front end loader went through the wall while a stolen truck with chains attempted to remove the ATM. Police were looking for five suspects.

Lamont County schools set to benefit as Province boosts classroom funding and hires more teachers

BY GRANT JOHNSON

Students in Lamont County schools under the Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) division are expected to see the impact of a new Provincial funding boost aimed at reduc-

ing class sizes and easing classroom pressures.

The Government of Alberta announced additional funding for school divisions across the province, with EIPS receiving approximately $6 million.

That funding is expected to support the hiring of about 45 new teachers for kindergarten to Grade 9 classrooms where enrollment numbers are pushing class size limits.

Mundare’s Ukraina Park Campground officially opens for summer season

BY GRANT JOHNSON

The gates are open once again at Ukraina Park Campground, as they officially welcomed campers for the season over the weekend.

Operated by the Town of Mundare and located next to the Basilian Fa-

thers Museum grounds, the campground opened in time for the May long weekend, marking the unofficial start of summer for residents and visitors.

The campground offers a mix of powered and unserviced sites along with

amenities such as showers, playground space, and access to nearby ball diamonds.

The campground is expected to remain open through the season, typically closing around the September long weekend.

Provincial thresholds guiding the funding set class size targets at 30 students or more for kindergarten to Grade 3, 33 or more for Grades 4 to 6, and 36 or more for Grades 7 to 9. When those limits are reached or exceeded, divisions become eligible for additional staffing support.

EIPS says it is already moving ahead with hir-

ing plans and working with school administrators to review updated enrolment and classroom data ahead of the 2026–27 school year.

The goal is to place new teachers where they are needed most and avoid classes exceeding the provincial thresholds.

Division officials say the funding will help reduce pressure in busy

classrooms and provide students with more individualized attention once the new teachers are in place.

For Lamont County families, the changes are expected to roll into local schools ahead of the next school year as staffing decisions are finalized over the coming months.

Beaver Creek Co-op

Appreciation Day

Moving Ahead by Giving Back Friday June 5th, 2026 11 am - 2 pm

WHERE HORSEPOWER MEETS HEARTBEAT

Showers are among the facilities available at Ukraina Park Campground.

Wet weather, water station updates highlight

BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG

Lamont Council met on May 12th and spent a considerable amount of time discussing the impact of the unusually wet spring and ongoing drainage concerns across the county.

Councillors reviewed road conditions and identified areas that may require maintenance or repair due to significant moisture levels from spring runoff.

Residents were reminded that the best way to report damaged roads or drainage issues is by submitting a service request through the county

website.

Council also addressed concerns surrounding payment services at the Hilliard and Heartland Water Stations. Following an investigation into a suspected cyber attack, administration confirmed there was no evidence of a cyber security breach. As a result, council directed administration to re-open credit and debit card payment options at both stations.

During the meeting, council received an annual presentation and funding request from the Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service (STARS). STARS requested Lamont

County consider increasing its annual support to $2 per capita, consistent with many other municipalities that contribute to the emergency air ambulance service. Council directed administration to include the request in upcoming budget discussions later this year.

Council also passed all three readings of the County’s updated Fees and Charges Bylaw (903.26), as well as the Intermunicipal Subdivision Appeal Board Bylaw (902.26). An updated Public Participation Policy was also approved following previous discussions at Committee of

the Whole meetings.

Several reports were accepted for information, including updates on Range Road 184 chip sealing and gravel work, the county’s 2025 Offsite Levy Reporting, followup action items, and updates from various boards and committees attended by councillors.

Council also set Nov. 16-18 for upcoming budget committee discussions.

In recognition of older residents throughout the region, council officially proclaimed June 1-7 as Seniors’ Week in Lamont County.

Council also approved

Prairie poet celebrated with free Mundare event

BY GRANT JOHNSON

The Basilian Fathers Museum will come alive with words, music, and

Prairie spirit on Saturday, May 30, as it hosts a festival honouring Canadian poet and visual

Polls open May 25 for Bruderheim by-election

BY JOHN MATHER

Bruderheim voters will head to the polls on Monday, May 25 in a byelection to replace Lester Quijano Acosta, whom surprised the council by submitting his resignation during a closed session on March 18.

In a resignation provided to council, Acosta said he was resigning effective immediately because of his health and some personal problems.

He added, in his letter, his thanks to the residents who had supported him in the fall election last October.

Two residents, former Councillor and former mayoral candidate George Campbell, and newcomer Ryan Mcivor will be running for election in his place.

While the election for the new councillor will be held May 25, if necessary, advance voting will take place May 23 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Memorial Community Hall.

On election day polls will be open at the Memorial Community Hall from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m.

several community donations, including $500 contributions to the Lamont High School Grad Banquet Committee and the Andrew Minor Ball Association, along with a $250 donation to the Fort Saskatchewan Brain Tumour Foundation Walk.

Two closed-session dis-

cussions were also held regarding enforcement and legal matters, along with an update from WSP Canada related to the Process Water Line Project. Upon returning to open session, council accepted the discussions as information.

artist Andrew Suknaski.

Organized by the Kalyna Country Ecomuseum Trust Society the event celebrates a writer known for capturing the voice and character of the Prairies.

“Over the course of his poetic career, he wrote

numerous books and performed as well,” said founder and curator Jars Balan. “He really captured the feeling of the Prairies by creating characters who spoke in a language that anyone who knows this landscape will recognize right away.”

The free, public event will feature readings of Suknaski’s work, live music, and refreshments, offering attendees a chance to experience the region’s culture through one of its most distinctive literary voices.

class 1 driver

BRB Service and Battle Bend Acres are looking for a Class 1 Driver.

Looking for an individual with experience in grain and fertilizer hauling; oilﬁeld experience would be an asset.

Opportunity to experience a wide variety of roles hauling within AB, running Super B dry and liquid trailers, equipment hauling, end dump trailers.

This role will also play a part in the day-to-day operations of a grain farming and custom operation; farming experience would also be an asset.

Competitive wages and beneﬁts, ﬂexible hours please apply to: Colin Hudson @780-806-0501 or Quinton Hudson @ 780-888-1158

CelebratingGRADUATESOur

Congratulate the 2026 Graduating Class of

Lamont High School

We invite Town & Village offices, businesses and community members to place an ad of congratulations and best wishes to the graduating class of 2026; these ads will run in the same keepsake edition of The Lamont Leader as the Lamont Highschool Grad Tribute on June 3, 2026.

Please show your support and book your ad in now!

Starting @ only $49!

Deadline to book is Friday, May 29 @ 5pm!

Email: lmtleader@gmail.com

Call: 780.895.2780

Registration opens for 2026 Summer Camps in Lamont County

BY GRANT JOHNSON

Families in Lamont County can now register for the 2026 FCSS summer camp program, offering day camps, field trips, crafts, outdoor activities, and overnight camps for youth of all ages.

Programs include Early Years Camp for ages 4-6, day camps in Lamont,

Graduated funds may increase for STARS

BY JOHN MATHER STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Services)

representative Glenda Farnden appeared before Lamont County Council May 12 to provide council with an update on the services operations.

In addition she put in a request that Lamont County update its annual donation to STARS to $2 per capita to bring the County in line with other municipalities in the area.

In a powerpoint presentation she showed council the costs of the operation were $36.6 million in fiscal year 2025/26 and $15 million of the amount came from the Provincial government.

The remaining amount was supplied by donations, fundraising and lotteries.

She added 80 per cent of the missions STARS went on were cardiac, vehicle incidents, medical or trauma cases.

The H145 intensive care unit had increased the blood on board to four units. It could handle massive hemorrhage control, thrombolytics, and featured highly specialized equipment.

“It’s very much an airborne intensive care unit,” she said.

Farnden told council that there had been 37

Bruderheim, and Chipman for ages 7-12, and three sleepover camps, including a two-night trip to Hanmore Lake.

“Personally, I’ll never stop loving Assassin Ball or the energy of a full camp Capture the Flag showdown at Hanmore,”

said Lamont County Lead Youth Facilitator Dayna Jacobs. “Beyond the fun, these camps play an important role in

STARS missions in the County in the last five years.

“Also included are responses to Lamont Hospital and there have been 15 of these in the past five years,” she added. Those cases could also involve ground ambulances that had responded and taken the patient to the nearest hospital, in this case Lamont, and then STARS was called to transport the patient to a larger facility.

She showed council a map of where every incident in the County had occurred.

The County has provided STAR $1.50 per capita which was a standing motion. This amounted to $5,631 in the past year.

Farnden asked council if this could be increased in a graduated increase

starting with $1.70 in 2027, $1.85 in 2028 and $2.00 by 2029.

That would amount to a total of $7,508 based on a population of 3,754.

“I want to thank Lamont County for being a partner with us,” she said. “We have had the pleasure of this partnership for 34 years.”

Reeve Aaron Wick said STARS was a great benefit for the county. He appreciated seeing the map where every incident in the county was highlighted.

Division four councillor Roy Anaka suggested council consider the graduated request when the next round of budget discussions took place.

After Farnden left the meeting, Anaka made a motion suggesting the funding request be for-

3D archery at Fish Pond Saturday

BY JOHN MATHER

Aspiring archers can go to the Lamont Fish Pond May 23, when the Lamont Fish and Game Association hosts a fun 3D Archery Shot.

The event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

There will be a minimum of 15 targets but no broadheads are allowed. A small area will be set aside for those who want to try archery for the first time, but those competing in the meet must supply their own equipment. Cost for the event is $10 per adult and $5 for youth.

youth development.”

Jacobs noted that camp experiences often leave a lasting impact, helping youth build teamwork skills, independence, and friendships that extend well beyond the summer.

“At FCSS, we believe every child should have the opportunity to experience camp, regardless

of financial barriers,” added Community Support Services Manager Sara Rindero. Subsidy options are available to support families in need.

Organizers say the goal is to ensure no child misses out on the opportunity to participate in enriching summer experiences.

warded to administration at the next budget meeting and it was carried.

Sean Quijano Acosta made the most of the holiday weekend sunshine, taking his remote-control plane for a spin over the open skies at Bruderheim’s Cosmic Skatepark. Melissa MacIntosh-Young photo.

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CARD OF THANKS

We wish to thank all of our family, relatives, friends, and neighbours — a few of whom travelled long distances — for being with us as we grieve the loss of Marshal Maydanski.

Thank you to Father Jim Corrigan from OLPH Church for officiating the lovely service. As well thank you Mike Barter for the music at the service.

We are deeply grateful to Gordon, Patricia and Victoria from Autumn Rose Funeral Home for their compassion and care in assisting us with the funeral arrangements and the service.

A special thank you to Tom Hrehorets, Heather Ruzycki, Joyce Anderson, and all of the members of the Chipman Seniors for preparing the delicious luncheon. We would also like to thank the Chipman Lions Club for setting up the hall and helping with the cleanup.

Thank you to the Town of Chipman for providing the hall.

Thank you to Dr.Alam and Staff at the Lamont hospital for their excellent care as well a thank you to the Sturgeon hospital staff in St. Albert for their compassionate care.

Thank you to everyone who sent flowers, cards of condolence and donations to the Lamont Health Care Center

Thank you all from the Maydanski Family

COMING EVENTS

Friends of Forestburg Fire Department

25th Annual Breakfast @ Forestburg Fire Hall 8-11am Saturday, May 23

Community Wide Garage Sales –All Day

ANNUAL SPRING CEMETERY AND HALL CLEAN UP ST. JOHN NEPOMUCENE CEMETERY - PRAGUE PRAGUE COMMUNITY HALL

Thursday, June 11 at 6:30 PM Beverages and snack to follow 20/22c

CLASSIFIEDS

NOTICES.

COMING EVENTS

BLESSING OF THE GRAVES PRAGUE CATHOLIC CEMETERY

Saturday, June 13 at 11 AM 20/22c

Killam Legion

Show & Shine

Saturday, May 23

Burgers, ice cream, live band, fire pit raffle, chili cook off. Free registration. Cars, trucks, motorcycles, heavy trucks, army vehicles, tractors. Contact Lee 780-842-8834.

HELP! Because we did not have enough people for a quorum, the Viking Historical Society has rescheduled its Annual General Meeting for May 20, 2026 at 7 p.m. at St. Matthew's Hall. All members please attend. New members needed!

FUNDRAISER

Chemo Care Hydration Packages. $55 buys one and Sonya donates one. Includes: Night Cream, Lip Balm and Foot Lotion. The goal is 300 pkgs by June 30. See Sonya Martens at the Tofield Market Friday May 22nd. www.MaryKay.ca/smartens or call 780-240-4605. TM14P

Viking Healthcare Auxiliary is holding 4th ANNUAL SPRING STRAWBERRY TEA Thursday, May 28, 2026 From 2 to 5 pm At Viking Legion Hall

$5.00 tea, cake, Strawberries

Beaverhill Players presents Sadie Flynn Comes to Big Oak by Norm Foster Mad Platter Catering $55 supper and show $25 show only Friday, May 29 7pm -show onlySaturday, May 30 at 7pm Sunday, May 31 at 2pm Holden Community Hall Dave 780-720-5839

Round Hill Spring Market Monday, May 25 from 5-7 p.m. For a table call or text Terry @ 780-678-6131 TMC19-20

COMING EVENTS

You can book Blanket Classified Ads and Value Ads through your local paper! Appear in over 65 different newspapers and over 300,000 homes in Alberta. Prices $299 to $999. Contact a Caribou Publishing paper today!

Garage Sale May 21 to 30 from 9 am - 6 pm. Located 1 mile west of Ryley on Range Road 175 and 1.5 miles north to Twp. Rd 504. Items include plastic tanks, barrels, pails, wheelbarrows, welders, household, tools, garden, motors, hunting, fishing and farming.

TM20P ————————————————

Spilstead Community Garage Sale Saturday, May 30, 10 am to 3 pm. 20502 Twp Rd. 502 Book a table, sell your stuff! Lindsey - 780.608.6223 TM20-21P

We welcome you to join us for Dying to Know Day, a compassionate community event featuring presentations and conversations about grief, caregiving, palliative care, advance care planning, and MAID. Join us Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Viking Community Hall. Registration is $40 and includes lunch and a sound bath session. Pre-registration is required through Viking/Beaver FCSS by May 29 @ 780.336.4024. TM20-21C

Flagstaff County presents Seniors Conference 2026 Thursday, June 4

Providence Place in Daysland 10am - 2pm.

Planting Workshop, Digital Safety presentation, Programs & supports for healthy againg and featuring Keynote speaker Jessica Janzen. To register, call Kerri at 780-384-4150.

See more details in the Flagstaff County ad in this week’s edition of The Community Press.

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FIREARMS AUCTION: June 27th: Ward's and Bud Haynes Auctions in Edmonton. Consign Now! Firearms, Ammo, Optics, Accessories, etc. Call Brad Ward, 780-940-8378. FirearmsAuctions.ca

FOR SALE

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2015 Freedom Express 25-foot, bumper pull trailer. Excellent shape, clean and ready for its next adventure. Call 780-336-6413 for more info.

20/22p

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Last Reminder for trees and raspberry plants. Buyers' responsibility to dig them out by June 5. If interested call Brian at 780-678-0053 for arrangements.

20/21c

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Tomato plants in Flagstaff County/Daysland and surrounding area. Order by the Daysland Pharmacy May 19 or after, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Brian's outdoor stand. Need to know what variety and how many - will have order forms to complete.

20/21c

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BOAD BEES has Farm Eggs and Honey For Sale - Viking, AB Area. Call or Text Darrin at 587-256-0214

19/20p

FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Free Delivery! Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.

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BARLEY – *NEW-AB Standswell* Smooth AWN, High Yielding, Grain and Forage Great Lodging Resistance. 1st NITROGEN USE EFFICIENT CEREAL IN CANADA.OTHER BARLEY: Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Durango, CDC Maverick, Esma, Sundre. WHEAT – Pintail, Forage or Grain. OATS – AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, CDC S01 Super Oat. PEAS – Very Early Yellow Peas, Forage Peas. ALSO AVAILABLE: Polish Canola & Spring Triticale. Special pricing on truckloads. www.mastinseeds.com; 403-556-2609.

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Downsizing Sale!

5 beds, 1 chesterfield, 1 canoe, 1 run radial arm saw, 1 desk, 2 antique church pews, 1 Christmas tree, and tools. Also holiday trailer Nomad 26 ft. new tires, new undercoat, with stove, barbecue and dishes. John Dickau, 780-374-3532 ————————————————