The Community Press
Jake’s Gift a touching, vivid portrayal of loss and love
BY TIM MATHESON
The Flagstaff Players welcomed playright and performer Julia Mackey and director Dirk Van Stralen to Sedgewick’s Community Hall on Monday, Oct. 13, and Tuesday, Oct. 14, for a performance of Jake’s Gift, a moving story of a WWII veteran’s first return to France since the war, 80 years past. Mackey plays four different characters in the play, seamlessly, and brings a tale of loss, and love, and hope. After the show, collections for the Killam and Lougheed Legion branches were made through sales of buttons and prints, with a special print donated to both Legions and to the Flagstaff Players by Mackey after the performance. Above, Mackey portrays ‘Jake’ a Canadian WWII veteran who has returned to Juno Beach for the 80th anniversary of the end of the war.
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
In its 2025, Flagstaff County Council established a Recreation Facilities Grant of $100,000, meant to assist the region’s major recreation facilities.
The grant could be applied to help with increased operational expenses, or used for repair and maintenance.
When the grant was created, Council intended the funds to target facilities serving a significant number of participants or spectators, which had a high impact on its community.
Flagstaff County opened up applications earlier in the year, with a deadline of May 31. The application process required information on participant/registrant numbers, number of days the facility is open, financial statements for the past three years, confirmation of non-for-profit status, and what the grant funding would be used for.
Thirteen regional organizations applied for the funding, including DaysArts, the Daysland Arena, Daysland Golf Club, Forestburg Ag. Society, Forestburg Arena Association, Forestburg Community Centre, Forestburg Curling Club, Forestburg Golf Club, Friends of
Flagstaff disperses $100k regionally in new rec facilities grant
Sedgewick Rec Centre, Heisler Ag Society, Lougheed Ag Society, the Strome Community Curling Club, and the Town of Killam.
Total grant funds requested through the applications were $585,283, leaving Council and administration to analyze all the applications received, with focus placed on user and registrant statistics to concentrate on facilitys with a high regional use and impact.
The top four major facilities from that analysis were the Daysland Arena, Forestburg Arena, Sedgewick Rec Centre, and Killam Arena/Agriplex.
In the analysis, it was determined that these four facilities could split the $100,000 grant funding approved in the budget, “to assist with increased utility, insurance, and unforeseen repair and maintenance costs.”
Council agreed with that assessment, and allotted $25,000 to each of the four regional facilities in Daysland, Forestburg, Sedgewick, and Killam.
Council then took that one step further, and passed a motion to include funding in its 2026 draft budget for $100,000 to be distributed equally among the four organizations next year as well.
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Canada Post welcoming CUPW workers back
Postal ser vice resumes but with rotating strikes
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
CUPW, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, announced last week that effective Saturday, Oct. 11, it would call off the general strike in favour of rotating strike action across the country.
That means, as Canada Post announced on Tuesday, that the corporation is resuming its operations across the country, but will expect ongoing disruptions. As of Tuesday, Oct. 13, rotating strikes are being held in Dawson Creek, BC, Fort St. John, BC, and St. Anthony, NL.
Visiting canadapost.ca/negotiations will provide an up-to-date picture of strike action on any given day.
Canada Post says, “Mail and parcels will not be delivered or picked up in locations where there are currently rotating strikes. Once the strike is over and operations resume in a given location, the delivery of mail and parcels will restart as quickly as possible.”
The Union met with Joël Lightbound, the Minister responsible for Canada
Post last Thursday, where it says it raised concerns about the government’s planned cutbacks, changes to delivery standards, and more. The union says,
“We believe that management has also been using Purolator to run Canada Post into the ground. By sending product to its subsidiary while postal workers are in a legal strike position, Canada Post is doing an end run around the new anti-scab laws.”
The union accuses Canada Post of undermining what it calls ‘free and fair collective bargaining,’ adding that the latest offer from Canada Post to workers were virtually identical to the one members rejected in a vote.
In a letter to Patty Hajdu, Minister of Labour, the Union says, “This is not bargaining. It is stalling. It is a deliberate attempt to frustrate and demoralize workers while misleading the public into blaming postal workers, all to shield the Corporation from accountability for its mismanagement and refusal to bargain in good faith.”
The union hopes to meet with Minister Lightbound again soon.
ECSHL hockey action begins
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
The East Central Senior Hockey League will be starting up this weekend, with 10 teams this year, including the Delburne Outlaws, Oyen Eagles, Forestburg Flyers, Provost Combines, Wainwright Rustlers, Sedgewick Sabres, Irma Aces, Hughenden Jets, Coronation Royals, and Stettler Im-
perials.
On Friday, Oct. 17, last year’s league champions, the Sedgewick Sabres, will open their season at home against the Wainwright Rustlers.
Hughenden doesn’t play in their home opener until Saturday, Oct. 25, and Forestburg won’t play at home until Saturday, Nov. 1.
Educated, Graduated and returned to work in Flagstaff County
father of three children with our youngest daughter in High School in Forestburg School
•A proven record in my first term of defending all BRSD Rural Schools, advocating for additional rural core and optional course offerings, and increasing rural bus routes, including two additional routes in
County
Parents urged to talk to kids about dangers of broadcasting location
Ethan Neufeld Student Reporter
With new apps teenagers use to communicate, new features are made available frequently. One of these features that has been around for years is location sharing.
On most apps, including Instagram and Snapchat, children and teenagers can share their location to anyone and in a lot of cases, they are even expected to share it with friends, partners, and followers.
Cybertip.ca is an information resource for parents and teens, and maintains a tip line for reporting online sexual exploitation in children.
Cybertip.ca is warning parents and care-givers that their children may be sharing their real-time location with others, making them vulnerable to coercive control, emotional distress, and sextortion threats.
Some young people like to view the whereabouts and monitoring of
others through location tracking or constant texting, labeling it as a sign they care about their partners. In reality, a lot of the time it is used as a coercive control tactic.
Partners may coerce teens into sharing their location by accusing them of being unfaithful, secretive, or dishonest if they refuse. It is extremely important to talk to teens about possible red flags and healthy boundaries in relationships.
Sharing their real-time location can create stress in other ways too, such as if a teenagers friend group has their location on, one may see that they are together and possibly feel left out or excluded.
Teenagers may also feel social pressure to appear as busy or popular, even if they want some personal time or simply do not feel like going out and being socially active.
Reports on Cybertip.ca also say that sextortion threats contain a user’s location frequently, as a means to scare someone
by making them believe they have access to their community, friends, family, and police department.
As previously mentioned, it is extremely important to talk to your teenagers about who they share they location with. You should make sure that the only people with access to that information is people they know and trust, and never an untrusted person or persons.
Asking if they feel pressured towards different things because of it or if they think it is practical or helpful can be beneficial too, as it can help them realize the importance of knowing who is the right and wrong person to share their location with.
It is possible to use the apps without location sharing, and it’s also possible to choose to share locations with just a small group of friends or family members.
Howard Shield for Division 4 Flagstaff County Council
With two terms of experience on council, I’ve had the honour of serving as Deputy Reeve, Chair of the Agricultural Service Board (ASB), Chair of F.R.E.S.S., and as a dedicated member of the Flagstaff Regional Housing Board, Veteran’s Memorial Highway Board, and the Battle River Watershed Advisory Committee.
As a cattle and grain producer for nearly 30 years in Flagstaff County, I understand the challenges and opportunities our rural communities face. I firmly believe that landowners are best positioned to make environmental decisions on their own property, and I will continue to advocate for policies that respect and empower our agricultural community.
My commitment is to provide equitable levels of service for all county residents, while maintaining fiscal responsibility and control over taxes. I bring both experience and a deep-rooted passion for our region to the table.
It would be an honour to serve the residents of the newly created Division 4 in Flagstaff County. Together, let’s build a future that respects our land, supports our people, and strengthens our community.
Vote Howard Shield: Experience. Integrity. Commitment. Let’s keep Flagstaff strong, united, and thriving - for today, and for generations to come.
Ph: 780-781-0046
Email: hshield@flagstaff.ab.ca
VOTE
BRIAN HARRISON
I was born and raised in Hardisty, have been a county resident for the past 29 years, and I would like to represent Division 1.
My hobbies include golfing, camping, and spending time with family and friends.
I previously owned the Hardisty Home Hardware. Having sold it, I now work as a senior public works operator for the Town of Hardisty. With this, I understand the importance of communication, budgeting, and finance. As well as working with the public, and the everyday struggles of balancing work and family life.
My previous community involvement includes being a volunteer firefighter, president of the Hardisty & District Chamber of Commerce, and president of the Hardisty Lakeview Golf Club. I value hard work, being fair, honesty, and giving back to the community.
Based on my experience and values, I feel I will be a strong voice for the residents of Division 1.
WILLIAMS, Iris
Snapchat’s “Snap Map”, showing the active location of friends across the globe.
Alliance community finding its rhythm this October
Call or text:780-335-0832
October’s been a steady and heartwarming month so far - both for myself and for our little town of Alliance. The trees have turned to gold, the air has that crisp edge to it, and there’s a cozy feeling settling in before winter officially arrives.
The monthly Alliance Market was held last Thursday, and by all accounts, it was another great success. Vendors did very well, and the special meal was a real hit - a full Thanksgiving dinner with turkey and all the fixings.
Plates were piled high, and nobody left hungry. Pies were for dessert, and they were delicious. Congratulations to Dan Prins,
who won the 50/50 draw! The next market will take place on Nov. 13.
Speaking of Thanksgiving, I hope everyone enjoyed a nice long weekend with loved ones.
I spent some of mine at my hubby’s uncle’s home near Coronation. There was no shortage of food or laughter - and the cutest nine-month-old baby kept everyone smiling. Jesse and I are so grateful to our hosts, Danny and Lorene, for opening their home and making it such a fantastic time.
A warm welcome goes out to Keith and Jennifer Gray, who have moved into George Funk’s former home. Keith’s a longhaul truck driver, and Jennifer is hoping to make some Filipino friends.
At Alliance United
Church, Rev. Barbara Zimmerman recently ministered the sacrament of baptism for Garnet Horton, followed by the sacrament of Holy Communion for the congregation.
It’s been a beautiful reminder of faith and fellowship within our community, though many of the usual faces were away for the Thanksgiving weekend.
Three local ladies will be representing Alliance at the upcoming Women’s Institute Convention in Camrose at the start of November. They’ll be entering a group quilt they’ve been working on - a wonderful reflection of the time, talent, and teamwork of our local crafters.
The Alliance Legion held a meeting, where they announced a generous donation of over $4,000 to the town’s mu-
Larry Hiller Candidate for Division 4 Flagstaff County Council
I was born and raised in Flagstaff County, attending Sedgewick School up to Grade 9, then our family moved to Edmonton for work and education. I returned home to my Grandfather’s homestead in 2006 and continue to be active in the community.
While away from Flagstaff County, I completed my Registered Industrial Accountant Certificate. I have been involved in private business, charities, and consulting.
For 25+ years I worked in First Nations Government as an Auditor, Band Manager (CAO), Director of Finance, and Special Projects Manager. I have worked with around eight First Nations and Tribal Councils. I was the Executive Director of the Indian Association and Alberta Chiefs Organization, dealing with the Federal Crown on First Nations’ issues.
While working with First Nation Government, I oversaw water and sewer construction, road and bridge construction, house building, dealing with oil and gas companies working on and off reserve lands, forestry agreements between the First Nation and forest companies, and other issues as they applied to the Federal Crown, Alberta Government, Counties, and School Boards.
While working for First Nation Government, I believed in making life easier and better for the membership and residents.
I followed that principle in my first term as Councillor for Division 4. Let me do that again. Vote Larry Hiller. Approved and paid by Larry Hiller
seum to help replace the building’s roof. It’s always inspiring to see the Legion continue its support for local history and community spaces.
They’re already preparing for their Remembrance Day service on Nov. 11, and are looking for volunteers to help with decorations.
The community calendar will be going to print in the next few days. If you’d like to include birthdays, anniversaries, or other local events and milestones, please reach out to Diane Dammann immediately.
Line dancing is in full swing at the community hall. Around 20 people have joined the program, and each week brings more fun (and fewer missed steps) as we learn new dances and practice our routines.
Looking ahead to the holiday season, the Al-
liance Fire Department is excited to announce something new this year - a Christmas Supper and Dance! The event will take place in December, right after all the town’s annual Santa Daze festivities. It’ll be open to the public, and tickets will be available soon. All proceeds go directly to supporting the fire hall.
There are other meetings coming up, including one for the Ag Society, which is once again running its popular meat raffle.
As the month rolls on, I’m reminded that it’s the little things. Alliance may be tiny, but it’s full of heart, and that shines through in every season.
Deanna Maertz
BRSD Candidate for WARD 4 - Flagstaff County Your voice at the board table You b Visit my campaign page at: www.deanna4trustee.wordpress.com deanna4trustee@gmail.com Ph: 780-385-4326
Advocating for students, families & our future VOTE FOR YOUR LOCAL SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEE ON MONDAY, OCT. 20
Melvin Thompson
Flagstaff
County Council Division 3
I am Melvin Thompson, the incumbent Councilor in the newly formed District 3. I’ve been married to my wife Mabel for 45 years and we have a daughter Danica. We’ve operated a small grain farm and a cow-calf operation since 1986.
I have a Bachelor of Commerce degree and have been a Chartered Accountant, CA/CPA, for 50+ years.
I started an accounting practice in Killam in 1984 and served the people and businesses in Flagstaff and beyond as accountant for 32 years until my retirement in 2016.
My wife and I were active members of the Killam and District Chamber of Commerce and were also members of the committee to build the new community hall in Killam.
My involvement in the community, along with my wife, has been with FIRST since its inception by being the accountant and in later years as a board member. I’ve also served with FFCS as their accountant and after retirement became a board member.
I was the accountant for the Battle River Research Group until retirement and then became a board member. Since retirement, I have become involved with the Battle River Watershed and its programs to improve our environment.
As a Councilor, I have been on the FRESS board to improve fire protection in our County and to modernize the equipment in all the fire stations.
I would like to continue serving Flagstaff residents as their County Councilor in District 3 and to move Flagstaff County forward in meeting the challenges of the future.
My principals are simple: Honesty, Integrity, Common Sense; I’m always ready to listen and be open to new ideas.
I ask for your support in the upcoming election on October 20,2025.
Vote Melvin Thompson
Maggy McIntyre
Forestburg student enjoys unforgettable trip to Pittsburgh
Ethan Neufeld Student Reporter
Around the middle of September this year, I got word that a life-long favourite NHL goalie of mine, Marc-André Fleury, was returning to his home team for his retirement game in Pittsburgh.
Seeing this goalie has been a dream of mine for countless years, as I had been following him since Grade 1 when I got into hockey. In fact, I started playing as a goaltender because of him, and stuck with it for roughly nine years.
Although in 2017 he was traded from the Pittsburgh Penguins to the Vegas Golden Knights, so I followed that team and continued to cheer for him when he was traded to other teams.
After getting word that he signed a one-game contract with the Penguins and would be suiting up on September 27, I immediately asked if I could fly out to watch the game. My plan was to go alone but could not because of certain laws in the United States, and so I had to think of another plan.
After talking with my mother, she remembered that the rig that my father ran was only three hours from Pittsburgh, and so we talked to some of the guys down there and got permission to come down and get a personal tour of the rig.
After we learnt that, we knew it would be worth it to go on the trip. We left less than two weeks later.
The hockey game was electric, with
fans from all over the world coming to celebrate Fleury’s last game before retirement back with his old team.
To see him play with the Penguins has been a dream of mine since I was a child, as well as even just seeing a game on the Penguins’ home ice. All around the game was an unforgettable experience.
The best part of the trip was yet to come though, as I then got to drive out to my late father’s rig and get a personal tour with my mother.
There, e-meeting the people I have heard countless stories about my whole life was astounding, as they knew so much about me when I hadn’t seen any of them since I was five years old.
Getting to see my father’s home away from home was unreal and I hope to see it again in the future. It was a very heartwarming day and both my mother and I were treated extremely well by everyone there.
NOTICE OF ELECTION
AND REQUIREMENTS FOR VOTER IDENTIFICATION
LOCAL JURISDICTION: FLAGSTAFF COUNTY, PROVINCE OF ALBERTA
Notice is hereby given that an election will be held for the filling of the following offices:
Office Number of Vacancies Ward Number or Electoral Division
Councillor One One
Councillor One Three
Councillor One Four
Voting will take place on the 20th day of October 2025, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Voting stations will be located at: Division One: Poll #1 – Hardisty Community Hall 4807 49 Street Hardisty, Alberta Poll #2 – Bellshill Hall 41545 RGE RD113 Flagstaff County, Alberta North off Hwy 608 on Rge Rd 113
Division Three: Poll #3 – Friends of Battle River Railway Station 5009 50 Avenue Forestburg, Alberta Poll #4 – Killam Senior Centre 4929 50 Street Killam, Alberta
Division Four: Poll #5 – Strome Senior Citizen’s Club 5120 50 Street, Strome, Alberta Poll #6 – Flagstaff County Office, Sedgewick 12435 Twp Rd 442 Sedgewick, Alberta
To vote, you must produce identification for inspection. For a full list of acceptable identifications contact the Flagstaff County office or view the list on Flagstaff County’s website at www.flagstaff.ca
DATED at Flagstaff County in the Province of Alberta, this 23rd day of September 2025. Charlene Sutter-Returning Officer
Vote Leslie Cholowsky for Killam Town Council
I moved to Killam in 1986 and immediately felt like I was home. Through working at the Bank of Montreal, then S. James Agencies, and now at The Community Press, I have met a lot of great people here over the years as well.
I have served on the Rec Board, Ag. Society, Community Hall Board, have been on the Flagstaff Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB) and (former Killam) SDAB boards for 10+ years, and now serve on Flagstaff Rural Crime Watch, and Building Bridges.
I am running for Council but not with an agenda or goal other than I feel I have an obligation to serve my community, and I have a skill set that might be useful.
Rural municipalities like Killam rely on volunteer groups to help maintain the facilities and activities that make life in a small town so rewarding. I would like to continue to work with those groups to enhance and strengthen their ability to build a strong volunteer base and function in the town.
Rural areas are constantly challenged to maintain services equal to those in bigger centres, but don’t have the corresponding tax base, so must balance taxation with services and make the most of every dollar received. I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility balanced against growth.
I believe I’ll bring a broad, regional view to the table. I value honesty, integrity, and if elected, promise to do my best to keep Killam on the path of growth and prosperity, through local and regional partnerships.
Approved and paid by Leslie Cholowsky
‘Press student reporter Ethan Neufeld’s recent trip to the US to see a Pittsburgh Penguins game included a side trip to visit his late father’s rig.
Legendary NHL goalie Marc-Andre Fleury played his final game on September 27 in a pre-season contest with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
OPINION
Hidden Stresses, Visible Strength
Out here, strength often looks like showing up no matter what. We carry on through storms, long hours, and hard news. But sometimes, the heaviest loads are the ones no one can see.
Recent Alberta Health data shows that emergency visits in Flagstaff related to mood and anxiety disorders are 64 percent higher than the provincial average.
These numbers remind us that many people in our community are struggling - often in silence, finding ways to cope that never make it into the statistics.
Behind those numbers are stories of teachers, farmers, oilfield workers, parents, and volunteers doing their best to hold everything together. When isolation sets in or life starts to feel overwhelming, it can be hard to know where to turn. In small towns, reaching out for help can also feel risky.
But there’s strength in what this region has always done best: looking out for one another.
The neighbour who drops off a meal. The coach who checks in on a kid who seems off. The friend who listens without judgment. These small acts of care are what keep communities like ours strong.
That’s what Empowering Minds: First Identifier is all about. It equips everyday people with the tools and confidence to notice when someone is struggling, start a caring conversation, and connect them to help before things spiral. You don’t have to be an expert to make a difference, you just have to care enough to see.
Join us Nov. 4 in Hardisty or Nov. 5 in Killam.
Free supper. Free tools. Lifelong impact.
Together, we can build a community where reaching out is seen as strength, not weakness.
Register to become a First Identifier at: www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/empowering-minds-with-ian-hill
If reading this brings up difficult feelings for you, please know you’re not alone. Help is available. Call the Mental Health Helpline at 1-877-3032642 for free, confidential support, 24/7. If you are in immediate danger, call 9-8-8.
Local supports are also available through Flagstaff Family and Community Services at 780-385-3976.
Acknowledgement: Empowering Minds is being brought to the Flagstaff Region through the partnership of Flagstaff Family and Community Services (FFCS), FIRST, Flagstaff County, The Community Press, Gibson Energy, and South Bow. Its success is made possible through the time, energy, and commitment of local businesses, organizations, and community members who believe in building a healthier, more connected community.
& Distributed every week at Killam, Alberta P.O. Box 99, Sedgewick, Alberta T0B 4C0 Phone 780-385-6693
E-mail: (Advertising): production.cp@gmail.com, (News): newsroom.cp@gmail.com
News from the Legislature Jackie Lovely MLA for Camrose Constituency
Family supportsduring strike
Families across Alberta are facing a lot of uncertainty right now. When classrooms close, parents are often left scrambling, students risk falling behind, and households shoulder extra costs they didn’t plan for. That’s why United Conservatives are stepping up with direct support to help parents and students get through this challenging time.
This month, eligible parents and guardians of students aged 12 and under will receive $30 per child, per day, for each day of the teachers’ strike. Payments are retroactive to Oct. 6 and will be delivered by e-transfer beginning Oct. 31. To apply, families will need a verified Alberta.ca account and can register in the parent portal once it opens on Oct. 13.
To create a verified Alberta.ca account, please visit account.alberta.ca, click “Create account”, select “For personal use”, and follow the instructions.
To help parents with childcare during the strike, out-of-school care programs can run all day, and qualified families with kids in Grades 1-6 can get a temporary increase to their childcare subsidy after five full days of the strike. Families can call Child Care Connect at 1-844-644-5165 or use the Child Care Lookup tool online at humanservices.alberta.ca/oldfusion/childcarelookup for help finding a spot.
We’re also making sure kids can keep learning at home. A free, optional parent toolkit aligned with Alberta’s K-12 curriculum is available in English and French. Parents can go to alberta.ca/parent-supports-duringschool-closure to access these optional resources.
And because so much of a student’s learning and discovery happens beyond the classroom, select provincial museums and historic sites are offering free admission to Albertans 18 and under for the duration of the strike. Minors 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
United Conservatives are focused on supporting parents, keeping kids learning, and providing stability for families while negotiations continue. Our goal is always to reach a fair agreement that supports teachers and students alike. For now, these supports will help families manage added costs and pressures until students are back in school.
Jackie Lovely, MLA - Camrose Constituency #104, 4870 51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1 Tel: 780-672-0000 Email: camrose@assembly.ab.ca
Boxelder bugs, often called maple bugs, have become an unwelcome nuisance across Flagstaff County this fall. They are covering sunny walls, gathering around doors and windows, and entering into buildings.
These small black-and-orange insects are not dangerous, but their numbers have reached levels not seen in several years. Many residents have asked why they are so bad this year, how long they will last, and what can be done to control them.
Maple bugs are native to North America and a familiar part of prairie life. They feed mainly on the seeds and leaves of boxelder and other maple trees.
In most years, they remain in low, manageable numbers. The insects overwinter as adults, sheltering under tree bark, in organic matter, or inside buildings.
In spring, they emerge to lay eggs on young leaves and developing seeds. During hot, dry summers, they can complete multiple generations, leading to the large late-summer and fall populations we are currently experiencing.
This year’s outbreak can be traced to
favourable weather and growing conditions. The warm, dry summer allowed more eggs and nymphs to survive, while last winter’s mild temperatures helped adults overwinter successfully.
At the same time, boxelder and maple trees produced a heavy seed crop, providing abundant food. With high survival rates, plentiful food, and hot weather, populations can increase rapidly.
As fall progresses, maple bugs instinctively search for warm, sheltered places to spend the winter. They often gather in greatest numbers on sunny south or west sides of buildings.
From there, they look for any small opening to squeeze into wall cracks, attics, or basements.
While they do not bite, chew wood, or damage structures, they can stain walls and fabrics and can make an even bigger mess when crushed. For this reason, residents should avoid crushing them indoors. Instead, use a vacuum or sweep them gently into a container for disposal.
The sheer number of bugs this year has made them a major nuisance across Flagstaff County and surrounding
Battling the Boxelder (Maple Bug)
areas. Fortunately, the problem is temporary.
Once the first hard frosts arrive, the insects become sluggish and die off in exposed areas.
I have already started to see them become docile with the cooler nights. Only a portion of the population will successfully find overwintering shelter, and by late fall, outdoor activity drops sharply.
During the winter, some may reappear indoors during warm spells, but they do not reproduce inside homes and will eventually die off without access to food.
Whether next year will be as bad depends on several factors. A cold, harsh winter would reduce survival, and a cooler, wetter summer in 2026 would limit population growth.
However, if Alberta experiences another hot, dry year and boxelder trees again produce abundant seeds, another heavy infestation could occur next fall.
Residents can take several practical steps to reduce infestations.
Prevention is the most effective control. Sealing cracks and gaps around windows, doors, vents, and siding will keep bugs from entering buildings.
Replacing damaged window screens, installing door sweeps, and caulking around utility openings all help.
Outdoors, using a strong jet of water or a light soap-and-water spray can dislodge clusters from walls without harsh chemicals.
Spray Nine is also effective for cleaning and removing maple bugs and stains. It rinses off more easily than soap solutions and removes the dark fluid they release which is a defensive mechanism and fecal matter.
Keeping yards free of leaves and organic debris will also help reduce next year’s populations be removing areas for them to overwinter.
Chemical insecticides can be used as a last resort but should always be applied according to label directions. Spraying foundations and lower walls in late summer before bugs begin to cluster can provide short-term relief, but benefits are temporary and overuse can harm beneficial insects, pets, and yourself.
Indoors, vacuuming remains safer and more effective than spraying.
Maple bugs are primarily a nuisance rather than a threat. With some preparation and patience, their numbers will decline as the weather cools.
Residents who take time now to seal entry points, clean up potential habitats, and avoid crushing the bugs will be better prepared to prevent future infestations.
Rural Healthcare Heroes nominations open
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
The Rural Health Professions Action Plan’s (RhPAP) nominations for the Rhapsody 2026 awards has opened earlier this year, and has also been made simpler to submit.
“The 2026 Rhapsody Awards honour exceptional healthcare professionals and teams who are making a difference in rural Alberta. This year the nomination period opens earlier than ever, giving communities more time to celebrate their local healthcare champions. The process has also been simplified: only one letter of support is required,” RhPAP’s Sept. 8 new release said.
Usually open from Jan. 1 to Feb. 28 each year, the nomination period for the two categories of Rhapsody awards, which are the rural physician award and the healthcare heroes award, opened in September.
The Rhapsody Rural Physician Award is described as “celebrating rural physicians who go above and beyond through outstanding medical care and meaningful community involvement. The Rhapsody Healthcare Heroes Award honours individuals or teams (including nurses, allied health professionals, and others) who show exceptional commitment to rural health and wellness,” RhPAP’s website says.
The rural physician award has been awarded annually since 2002, and the healthcare heroes award was established in 2018. Locally, one of the 2025 physician award nominees included Dr. Hermanus Potgieter of Viking.
Nominations are open until Friday, Feb. 27 online at RhPAP.ca/Rhapsody and the recipients will be announced in April 2026. Evaluation forms are available to reference online in order to build a strong nomination.
Recipients are selected by an awards committee
representing Alberta’s rural North, Central, and South zones. Tofield, Viking, Daysland, and Killam Health Centres are in the Central zone.
Tofield CARC Chair Cyndy Heslin says, “RhPAP is our biggest supporter and has been alongside the Tofield Community Attraction Retention Committee every step of the way.
“We wish all the nominees the best of luck in their endeavours to help Rural Health be the best it can be in Alberta!”
Alberta government taking action on truck safety
Ethan Neufeld Student Reporter
Alberta’s government has decided to take action on trucker safety by putting vigilant oversight on driver training schools and carriers through inspections, audits and targeted investigation.
In addition to 39 disciplinary letters and over $100,000 in administrative fines recently announced, the government has shut down five drivers training schools, issued six corrective action plans, revoked 12 instructor licenses, and sent four warning letters to driver examiners.
“Our families’ safety won’t be put at risk by reckless operators who ignore the rules. Anyone cutting corners or operating unsafe trucks will be removed from our roads,” says Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors.
“Alberta truckers have earned a reputation as some of the most trusted drivers in the country, and we will not allow a few bad actors to undermine that trust.”
Because of poor onroad performance, unsafe equipment, or failure to meet mandatory safety standards, 13 different commercial trucking companies have been taken off of the roads of Alberta.
Seven of those companies turned out to be “chameleon carriers,” which are companies who will try to avoid oversight by changing names, relocating, or creating new identities.
Alberta’s government is working with federal and provincial partners to help enforce the law against these chameleon carriers.
Work is also being done with the Canadian Council of Motor Trans-
port Administrators to create a national database system that can get rid of this loophole.
“Elevating driver training standards to align with the established benchmarks of a designated trade with the ultimate goal of achieving Red Seal designation for the transportation industry represents a significant and positive step forward.
“This initiative is supported by the Professional Truck Training Alliance of Canada (PTTAC) and will not only contribute to safer roadways but also foster greater professionalism and integrity across all sectors of the industry,” says Don MacDon-
ald, operations manager, CCA Truck Driver Training Ltd. and interim chairman of the Professional Truck Training Alliance of Canada.
Alberta’s government is also targeting another scheme known as “Drivers Inc.” which is when a company avoids payroll and taxes
by hiring drivers as independent contractors.
These drivers are often unqualified and lack proper training and knowledge to be driving trucks on the highway.
In July, 20 per cent of 195 drivers that were stopped were suspected of being misclassified.
The Alberta govern-
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ment is continuing to work towards fixing these issues, making sure the roads are safer with properly qualified and respectful drivers.
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Wheat Kings hitting rough patch with weekend losses
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
The Killam Jr. B Wheat Kings suffered a pair of losses on the weekend.
On Friday, Oct. 10, they hosted the Wainwright Bisons, last year’s league champions, and came away with a 3-0 loss.
Wainwright scored midway through the first period, putting the score at 1-0. A few minutes later the two teams got into it, coming away with a misconduct on each side.
There was no scoring in the second period, despite Wainwright taking two penalties, the Wheat Kings just couldn’t capitalize on.
In the third, the Bisons scored another to go up by two, then scored on a power play to make it 30 which was the final score.
This was a physical game, with the Wheat Kings showing that they can give as good as they take.
Shots on goal were 3138, Ethan Edwards took the loss in goal for the Wheat Kings.
The next night the team travelled to Lloydminster to take on the Bandits.
The Bandits got on the scoreboard first, with two unanswered goals in the first period.
The second period saw Lloydminster score three more, including one short-handed goal, with the Wheat Kings getting on the board late in the period with a goal from Ethan Allan, assisted by Cade Schatschneider, to make it 5-1 heading into the final period of play.
Dylan Kruchten scored a short-handed goal from Jordan Gagnon ust minutes into the period to make it 5-2, but the Bandits scored twice more to expand their lead to 7-2 before Kruchten scored his second of the night, again from Gagnon, for a 7-3 final.
Shots on goal were 3534 for the Bandits, with
The Harvest moon of Oct. 6 and 7 was the first of three ‘super moons’ expected this fall, with the second coming on Wednesday, Nov. 5, called the “Beaver Moon,” and the third, called a “Cold Moon,” expected on Thursday, Dec. 4. A so-called super moon happens when the moon is at its closest point to Earth in a month. The moons can even look slightly larger than regular full moons as a result.
Wheat King’s newcomer Valentino Harson taking the loss in goal.
This weekend will see the Wheaties on the road for Friday, Oct. 17, against the Vegreville Rangers, then on to Cold Lake the next night to take on the Ice.
The Wheat Kings are back at home Saturday, Oct. 25, when they will host the St. Paul Jr. Canadiens.
Hunter/Landowner Permission Form
Entry Permission granted to:
County residents have a persistent new visitor
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Ron and Rosemary Weeks live between Killam and Sedgewick, and over the years have become used to visitors of the four-legged kind, but this fall has brought a new species to their place; a pronghorn has moved right in.
Rosemary says, “This handsome young animal has been making our yard its home for about a month and a half now.”
She says it comes every single morning, and walks around the yard before laying up close to the garage or the house. “It doesn’t seem to be afraid like a deer would be.”
She says the puzzling thing is where the animal came from, as the couple have never seen one of these animals nearby. “We are unsure how he got here, because he’s always by himself.”
As cute as it is, she says, she’d rather
prune her rosebushes and other foliage herself, the pronghorn’s help isn’t entirely welcome on that front.
Pronghorns are common in grasslands, and are often mistaken for antelope, but they are actually more closely related to giraffes than antelopes, according to the Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation.
Pronghorns are the fastest animals on land in North America, and can reach speeds up to 90 km/h. Oddly however, they lack the ability to jump, especially over fences, and will generally try to go through, or under, but the barbs will rip their skin, leaving them exposed to winter, or causing them to get caught in the wires.
They are generally found in southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, and all the way to northern Mexico.
Pronghorn can be hunted in Alberta, but only in specific WMUs and with a special licence.
Ron and Rosemary Weeks have had a persistent visitor the past six weeks or so, as a young pronghorn seems to have decided it’s home in their yard in Flagstaff County between Killam and Sedgewick. These curious animals aren’t very timid as a rule and will come and check out new things in their environment.
Flagstaff County cancels $2.4 million in outstanding property taxes due to backruptcy of company
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
Flagstaff County administration advised Council during its Aug. 13 meeting that the county has been working with Brownlee LLP in the recovering of outstanding taxes for Sequoia Resources Corporation since 2018 with no success.
The company filed for bankruptcy in 2018, with the bankruptcy trustee then trying to see its assets.
Administration advised Council that, “The courts have approved the sale of some of the assets; the assets not being sold will be going to Orphan Well Association (OWA) for abandonment.”
Administration further says that none of the assets being sold are within Flagstaff County, with all assets within the region appearing on the abandonment list for OWA.
Administration advised Council that the bankruptcy trustee advised Brownlee LLP that Flagstaff County should expect no further payment towards outstanding taxes “in light of the significant abandonment and reclamation obligations of assets.”
As a result, administration brought the issue to Council with a recommendation that all outstanding taxes and penalties for Sequoia Resources Corp be cancelled.
That total, to date, represents
$808,636.62 in outstanding taxes, and $1,620,207.94 in outstanding penalties, for a total of $2.43 million.
Flagstaff County includes in its annual budget, and has done for the past several years, a Tax Bad Debt expense, to deal with situations just such as this, where there is no chance of recouping taxes, either by virtue of bankruptcy or a lack of avenues to recover taxes from oil and gas companies.
In 2025, $3,300,000 was allocated to tax bad debt, according to the 2025 Business Plan and Budget published by Flagstaff County.
Unpaid oil and gas taxes also affect Flagstaff County’s performance indicators, where the province uses unpaid
taxes as one benchmark measure for long-term viability.
In 2024, outstanding oil and gas taxes from non-compliant companies resulted in the oil and gas portion being $3,466,174, representing 92.69 per cent of the total unpaid taxes, which would sit at the $273,545 range if not for the oil and gas portion, well within the Province’s guidelines.
The county advised the Province, “As long as there is taxable assessment on non-operating facilities and bad acting companies are allowed to continue operating without paying taxes, we will continue to have a higher uncollectable tax ratio,” a message that was approved by Council.
Food Bank reverse advent calendar returns
Leslie Cholowsky Editor
The Flagstaff Food Bank is hosting their reverse advent calendar once again, gathering a month’s worth of donations a day at a time.
Each day has one item commonly found on the food bank shelves, which doesn’t seem like a big deal, but when a whole month’s worth of items is gathered, it is a big deal to the local organization.
The calendar isn’t expensive to fill, and ensures that the Food Bank receives the items they need to fill their standard hampers, as they gear up for one of the busiest times of year.
As the season gets colder, and furnaces fire up more often, utility costs increase, and what’s left over for food can sometimes mean that a hamper from the food bank becomes a necessity for some people in the region.
The reverse advent calendar is not only a great guide to giving year-round to the food bank, but it’s also a fun way to go about it.
Make it a challenge, or go in with friends and family, assigning each a week or even a day or
days of the month.
It’s something that local businesses can do as well as individuals, and having full shelves going into the winter season is a huge hand up for the food bank.
Food Bank co-chair Jan Bergseth says, “It’s Christmas in October for the food bank with the annual ‘Foodvent’ calendar.
“We so appreciate the support we’ve received so far from everyone who has purchased the items on the list.
“The Killam and Sedgewick Co-ops are doing an excellent job promoting the daily items by having them at the checkouts for easy purchase.”
For those who wish to participate, you can buy the items individually and then put them all together for delivery at the end to the food bank (by Monday, Nov. 3) or you can drop the items individually in donation boxes in your community (if you have them.)
If you want to participate, but are unable to deliver the goods yourself, call 780-385-0810 to make other arrangements.
Bjorn & Allison see support for a small business & big family.
This is Bjorn and Allison, owners of Bear Butchering. Thanks to killer jerky and loyal regulars, they’re busy year-round, processing domestic meats and wild game.
The Vision profit shares are a help, though. With five kids at home, says Bjorn, every dollar keeps the wolf from the door. Good thing it doesn’t have the same effect on the rest of the game. whatsyourshare.ca
Celebrate International Credit Union Day with us at your local Vision Credit Union branch! Bring along a non-perishable food bank donation and you’ll receive a limited edition Vision 2026 calendar featuring photos taken by fellow community members. We’ll have snacks, refreshments and friendly faces waiting for you.
WHAT International Credit Union Day
WHEN Thursday, Oct. 16 from 10 am – 2 pm
WHERE Your Vision Credit Union branch Real people. Real results.
7. T413 – 2013 Ford F250, Super Cab, 4x4 – 300,571 km
8. ASB115 & ASB216 – 2015 Schulte XH1500 S3 Rotary Batwing Mower with a 2016 Schulte FLX-1510 Flex Arm
9. 11-foot-wide by 10-foot-high Overhead Door with/Rails and Spring
• This equipment can be viewed on our website at www.flagstaff.ab.ca or at the County Shop in Sedgewick and will be sold on an “as is basis”. Kilometres may vary slightly depending on time of sale.
• Download a tender form from our website at www.flagstaff.ab.ca or contact our Administration Office at 780-384-4123 to receive a tender form.
• Please drop off or courier the form in a sealed envelope marked “USED VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT TENDER” to Flagstaff County Administration Office, Box 358, 12435 Twp Rd 442, Sedgewick, AB. Due to the postal strike, we will also accept emailed tender forms at: kkinzer@flagstaff.ab.ca.
• Closing date for bidding on items is Monday, October 20th, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. MDT. The highest or any bid not necessarily accepted.
• The winning bid recommendations will go to the next Council meeting for approval. Once approved, items may be picked up.
For further information, please contact: Kevin
Name of new provincial conservative alternative in ‘limbo’
Pearl Lorentzen Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Scott Sinclair, MLA for Lesser Slave Lake, is starting a new conservative party with fellow ousted UCP MLA Peter Gutherie.
Sinclair says that the name of the new party is in “limbo.”
The goal is to have a party named the Progressive Conservatives, harkening back to the days before the Wild Rose and United Conservative Party (UCP).
Sinclair’s vision is for a
“centre-right-middle” party and says the party is “trying to appeal to everyday people. We think there’s an appetite for this.”
The two joined the Alberta Party in the summer. On August 27, the Alberta Party voted to change the name. On Aug. 29, the party applied to Elections Alberta for the name to be recognized.
“There’s no exact timeline for this,” says Sinclair.
However, he thinks it will take around four
weeks, since that was how long it took last year for the Buffalo Party to change its name to the Republican Party of Alberta.
Sinclair figures they should hear within the next few weeks. Once that is done, the renamed party will have a launch party, push for more membership, launch a formal leadership race, and set a convention date all in the first few months.
Asked about membership, Sinclair says “it’s pretty low, I think.”
The Flagstaff Region Presents
EMPOWERING MINDS
Challenge the way you think about Mental Health and be inspired to act.
What to Expect:
•Inspiring stories of resilience and hope
•Practical tools to support mental well-being
•Be part of a community movement for change
Community Supper Event
Tuesday, November 4
Hardisty Community Hall 6-8 p.m.
Wednesday, November 5
Killam Community Hall 6-8 p.m.
At the special assembly for the name change, the membership was around 400, he adds.
It’s probably higher now, as both Sinclair and Gutherie have sold memberships, but the big push will be after the name change.
Although having joined an existing party, as far as the Alberta Legislature is concerned Sinclair and Gutherie are still listed as independents, as a party being rec-
ognized by the legislature is another step in the process.
Asked if there is precedence for what they are doing, Sinclair says, that in recent years parties in both BC and Saskatchewan parties have done something similar. The Saskatchewan Party has formed several majority governments and the informally united BC conservatives and liberals almost got enough seats
to form a government.
“It can happen quite quickly,” he says, “if you’re able to capture the momentum … We do believe that there’s an opportunity for us to form government.”
Alberta Legislature goes back into session on October 23. Sinclair plans to host an open house sometime before then in Slave Lake. He would like to visit any schools in the riding, who are interested in having him.
Let’s create a world where no one suffers in silence. For more information, call 780-385-3976
Because this is a fund-raising event, the Alberta Charitable Fund-raising Act requires that we provide you with an estimate of gross income and expenditures. At this event, we expect to raise $20,000 at an anticipated cost of $10,000.
With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Doris Audrey Johnson (nee Weeks) on September 29, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on May 30, 1949, in Killam, Alberta, Doris was the fourth of eleven children born to James and Leonora Weeks. Growing up in a large family gave Doris the foundation that shaped the strength, resilience,
and love
With love and respect, we remember Lis Vibeke Brodie, who passed away peacefully at her home in Killam, Alberta, on September 30, 2025, at the age of 81.
Lis was born on December 17, 1943, in Copenhagen, Denmark, to Else and Henry Kobbero.
In 1956, she moved with her family to Edmonton, Alberta, where she grew up learning the value of hard work, independence, and perseverance - qualities that would define her throughout her life.
she carried throughout her life.
Doris was predeceased by her parents James and Leonora, and was a loving sister to Carol, Arlene, Ron, Valerie and Bill, as well as to her siblings Bernard, Lois, Margaret, Perry, and Norman who preceded her in death.
Doris lived a life filled with purpose, faith, and deep devotion to those around her. She was the beloved wife of Ken Johnson, and devoted mother to Corey (Jennifer), Pamela (Fitz), Kevin (Lorna), and Kristen (Jeremy).
She had a natural ability
On November 14, 1965, Lis married Stanley George Brodie, beginning a partnership that would be filled with both joy and challenge, love and determination.
Together, they raised a family and built a legacy through their business, Brodie’s Bakery, which they opened in Killam on January 9, 1978. The bakery became a cornerstone of the community, a place where Lis’s skill and dedication were known by all.
Lis made history as the first woman in Canada to earn a baking certificate from NAIT, paving the way for other women in her trade. Her career was a reflection of her grit and capability - she achieved what few others dared to attempt.
Life brought Lis moments of deep loss and
Doris Audrey Johnson (Weeks)
to make others feel seen, heard and cared for.
Doris served the community of Hughenden as the school secretary, where she greatly influenced the lives of countless students and was deeply respected by faculty members.
She later opened Leonora Place Bed and Breakfast in Sedgewick, offering hospitality, comfort and kindness to guests from near and far.
Her creative spirit shone through in her photography, quilting and journalling – each offering a reflection of her appreciation for beauty, memory,
and storytelling.
Above all, Doris was passionately devoted to her family, finding her greatest joy in her role as “Grandma” to her cherished grandchildren: Maddie, Sophie, Naomi, Gabe, Teague, LeVander, Teryll, Kieran, Kayde, Kayne, Kohen, Grace and Josiah. She loved every minute she spent with them – baking cookies, cheering at many sporting events (football, baseball, basketball, volleyball, and hockey), watching dance recitals and choir performances, and even attending many 4-H Beef shows.
As a woman of unwa-
Lis Vibeke Brodie
hardship, and those experiences shaped her later years. Yet through it all, she remained strongwilled, independent, and unafraid to stand her ground.
She lived life on her own terms - honest, determined, and proud of all she accomplished.
Lis was predeceased by her husband, Stanley George Brodie, her daughter Tanya Jody Brodie, her eldest son Lee Hugh Brodie, her parents Else and Henry Kobbero, and her brother Bent Kobbero.
She is lovingly remembered by her sons Stanley David Brodie and Jim Stacy Brodie, extended family, and those who admired her strength and resilience.
Lis’s story is one of courage, determination, and hard-earned wisdom
- the legacy of a woman who carved her own path and left a lasting mark on those who knew her.
Please join the family to honour Lis’s life at the Killam Cemetery at 1 p.m. on Friday, October 24, 2025. Please Join the family following the graveside service at Eggs & Co. for-
vering faith, Doris was actively involved in her ministry groups, where she served with humility, strength and a heart full of grace. Her life was a testament to the values she lived by: love, compassion, resourcefulness, selflessness, and kindness.
We know that Doris was welcomed into heaven with much rejoicing by family and friends.
A celebration of Doris’ Legacy of Love will be held on October 18, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the Killam Community Hall, where all who knew and loved her are welcome to gather in remembrance.
merly known as Brodie's Bakery.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations can be made to the Killam Cemetery, STARS, Alberta Cancer Foundation, or a Charity of Donor’s Choice.
If anyone wants to assist with funeral costs, Please
Doris leaves behind a legacy that will echo through generations – a life beautifully lived, a heart forever remembered.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Doris’ memory to Pleasington Historical Society, Dulcina Hospice Care or charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements by Fee and Sons Funeral Home and Crematorium Killam
Helping families and their Communities for over 100 years feeandsonsfuneralhome.com
send an etransfer to stanleydbrodie@gmail.com
Arrangements by Fee and Sons Funeral Home and Crematorium Killam
Helping families and their Communities for over 100 years feeandsonsfuneralhome.com
Killam & Forestburg Baptist Church Killam: 780 385-3607 Service Times: Killam: Worship – 10:55
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$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers 16,000 readers
ANNOUNCEMENTS
To Give Away:
Bus seats available for free (out of a school bus-legs on one side only)
Call 780-914-7861
CARD OF THANKS
The family of the late Carl Baumgartner wish to express our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible care and support provided during his final months and after his passing. Our sincere appreciation goes to the dedicated doctors, nurses, and staff at Viking Hospital for their compassionate and professional care. As a family, we are ever grateful that Carl had a lovely place of rest and that we were able to stay with him in the beautiful and well provisioned palliative suite at the hospital. We also wish to thank the palliative home care team for the telephone consultations and in person care for Carl that allowed him to spend all but the last week of his life at home in comfort and dignity, and to ensure that mom was well supported as she cared for dad. To our many family members, friends, neighbours and ladies from the Hospital Auxiliary, we are deeply touched by your kindness. Your prayers, visits to the house and hospital, comforting phone calls, generous gifts of food and donations to the Gas Line Interpretive Centre, and shared memories have been a source of immense strength during this difficult time. We will always remember your thoughtfulness and support.
God bless and keep all of you.
The Baumgartner Family
COMING EVENTS
Innisfree Community Garage Sales
Saturday, October18. 9 to 4.
Several sales around town. Many new items . Maps available. At the library concessions, books and bake sale.
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Round Hill Halloween Market
Monday, October 27 5-7pm
Jack-o'-lantern and costume parade
For a table call or text Terry 780-678-6131 TM41-42 ————————————————
Walter Jahns Singers will resume practices for the 2025-26 season on Monday, Oct. 20 at 7 p.m. at the Forestburg Community Hall. All are welcome.
CLASSIFIEDS
COMING EVENTS
New Musician Open House at Battle River Pipes and Drums Band Camp. Introductory lessons for pipe chanter, and snare, tenor, or bass drums.
Oct. 14 from 2 to 3 p.m. or call Ian for more info at 780-390-0096.
39/41c
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Sunshine Villa
Annual Autumn Pie Social 5834 51 St. Tofield
Saturday, October 18th 2pm-4pm
$10 admission for adults, $5 for ages 5-15, Under 5 is FREE! Accepting food items for Tofield & Area Food Bank. Funds raised go towards resident recreation.
TM40-41C
Garage Sale: Round Hill
Friday, October 17th only. 9 am - 5 pm.
Straight East of Round Hill, 5.5 miles on South side.
Golf Clubs, tents, tools, 5 gallon water tank, sleeper for Chev truck, garden tractor trailer, miscellaneous items. TM41P
FOR RENT
Storage Unit For Rent in Killam Inside private warehouse building behind Community Press office. Security cameras on site, building heated in winter. Upstairs units available, approx 8’ x 12’. Back alley access only. $99/mo. with $100 damage deposit. Or pre-pay for 6 months for $495 (1 month free) or pre-pay for 1 year for $990 (2 months free).
Rental contract required. First month due at signing. Call/Leave Voicemail for Ally 780-385-6693 or stop by The Community Press office on Main Street in Killam.
FOR SALE
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.
S-70 Bobcat For Sale 89 hours w/sweeper $31,000 Call Rick at 780-385-4054. 39/41p
2008 VT Honda Shadow
Rebuilt Carburetor, Ruby Red and Chrome. Runs & Rides great! 23,000km. Included is 2XL Helmet, 4XL Leather Jacket, bluetooth, Cardo Freecom. $5,400 Call Jason at 780-374-2484. 41/42p
Dobro Guitar For Sale
Custom made by Paul Beard of Beard Guitar in Hagerstown, Maryland. Comes with custom Fibreglass Carrying Case, Guitar High Chair, Bracket to support the guitar when standing, table mount on back of chair to lay guitar down to tune/play standing up, books, tabs, cds. Asking $6,200. Call Darrell at 780-916-2318 39/41p
FOR SALE
Multiple Items For Sale GREAT PRICES!!!!!!
Located in Viking, AB Chop Saw & Stand $300 Electric Mower $250 Scroll Saw $120
Air Tools $200
Golf Clubs $500 Plus many more toolssome never even used! Call Victor at 587-306-3806
37/41p ————————————————
Steel Seacan Storage 10ft x 40ft
3 Double Doors
White Year 2024 No Rust nor Damage Original Owner Seacan condition will compliment all Yardsites Located: Lamont / Bruderheim
$9,800 Ph: 780 940 2984 39/51p
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WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzymes injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 250. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. albertasprucetrees.com.
Hjordis Anne Armitage March 4, 1938 - September 3, 2025
Join us as we honour and celebrate the life of Hjordis Armitage Saturday, October 18, 2025 12:30 pm Kinsella Community Centre Kinsella, Alberta 40/41c
PRICING
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers
16,000 readers
½ Section Pastureland
NE 35 & NW 36-41-10-W4 located south of Hardisty in the Battle River valley at RR 101 & TWP RD 420. Fenced, cross-fenced, mix of seeded and tame grass with large dug-out, pumping system, full power on site with gravel revenue. Call Mike Golka REMAX River City 780-914-9889 MLS#’s E4447511 & E4447499 tfnc
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
Call or text at 780-385-1251 SERVICES
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.
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. 403-543-0927; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS with Caribou Publishing (owner of your local paper) From Business Cards to Books and everything in between! production.cp@gmail.com
Be prepared for winter power outages.
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Help keeping hunting safe by following rules
Ethan Neufeld Student Reporter
With rifle hunting season approaching, it is important for everybody to be made familiar with the rules and laws that come with it.
The Killam RCMP has released some valuable hunting tips that hunters should follow to ensure a successful and safe hunting season.
One important rule that many forget to follow is to make sure you have permission to be hunting on the land you are using.
Killam Detachment Sargeant, Andy Wetzstein, says “We, and the government, recommend seeking about two weeks worth of notice to the land owner if at all possible and written permission is best we have found historically.
“This just helps us a little more with the ‘he said, she said’ angle that can arise if there’s a disagreement.”
Although written proof is the best option by far, enforcement agencies report it’s obtained in few instances.
Flagstaff Rural Crime Watch has a permission form on their Facebook page, which consists of information like vehicle description, license plate number, land location, conditions of use, and most importantly both parties signatures. This form this is also available this week in the paper in its entirety.
A land owner can revoke their permission at any point, but must give reasonable efforts into telling the hunters on their land.
Hunting without permission can get you charged with trespassing along with poaching, depending on what wildlife is being sought.
If you shoot, retrieve, or harvest an animal on land that you do not have permission to hunt on, your tags are considered invalid and you will be charged with unlawful possession of wildlife and poaching.
If you legally shoot an animal but it
dies on private property that you do not have permission to hunt on, you may not trespass to retrieve the animal.
You must talk to the landowner first, and if you do not come to an agreement or are not able to get in contact, fish and wildlife must be called and they will handle the retrieval and disposal of the animal.
“In most cases for charges to be laid there is no need for the land to be posted with No Trespassing/No Hunting” signs, there are a few cases outside of recreational hunting where this is necessary,” says Sergeant Erik Graf von Platen, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services Sheriffs branch.
“If landowners have issues with signs being ripped off we always recommend taking photos of the signs when they are put up, so they are date and time stamped.”
As important as it is to have permission to be on the land you are using to hunt, it is much more important to take the proper safety measures.
Each year some rules change, that’s especially true this year, so ensure that you review the Alberta Hunting Guide before starting out.
RCMP have compiled a checklist for hunters to follow to ensure they enjoy a safe hunting season.
Always do your research on exact laws and review safety measures for hunting, some of these include making sure your firearms are always secured, both in transit and in the field.
Police report that hunters must secure their guns in transit and storage, storing them unloaded in locked cases with trigger locks, and recommend that ammunition is stored separately from weapons.
RCMP warn hunters to ensure their firearms are never left unattended at any time, even momentarily. Make sure they are properly secured to avoid any chance of theft.
Police say it is best to avoid any high-
traffic areas when hunting as well, taking care to keep to correct hunting areas and wear high visibility gear, such as orange or other bright colors to avoid hunting accidents.
RCMP say it’s a good idea to make sure you have the necessary licences, tags, and permits with you at all times while hunting. Hunters need to respect designated zones and protected wildlife areas, and follow hunting season start and end dates.
Always inform someone about where you are hunting in case of an emergency.
Police say other ways to be prepared for an emergency is to have a fully charged phone with you and a first aid kit as well.
One extremely important rule is to always treat a firearm as if it is loaded and to never aim it at something you don’t plan to shoot under any circumstances. Following these guidelines can help ensure a safe and successful hunting trip, avoid accidents, and ensure you that the land and animals are being treated correctly. For any more information or inquiries, visit albertaregulations.ca
Notice of application to be filed for approval to amend franchise fee for Village of Lougheed and FortisAlberta Inc.
Application summary
FortisAlberta Inc. will file an application with the Alberta Utilities Commission, requesting acknowledgement of the new franchise fee of 9 per cent for the Village of Lougheed.
The current franchise fee of 8 per cent will change to 9 per cent, effective January 1, 2026. The franchise fee percentage is applied to the distribution tariff, typically consisting of both distribution and transmission charges. Based on the typical monthly consumption of 625 kilowatt hours, the average monthly franchise fee paid by an average residential customer is expected to increase by $0.85.
The franchise fee is charged in accordance with the franchise agreement between the Village of Lougheed and FortisAlberta Inc., approved by the Commission in Decision 20550-D01-2015.
You may send your objections, concerns about, or support for the application in writing to FortisAlberta or the Village of Lougheed on or before October 21, 2025, at:
FortisAlberta Inc.
Mr. Ralph Leriger, Manager, Stakeholder Engagement
100 Chippewa Road, Sherwood Park, Alberta, T8A 4H4 email: stakeholderrelations@fortisalberta.com
Village of Lougheed Richard Lavoie
5004 - 50th Street Lougheed, AB T0B 2V0 Email: cao@lougheed.ca
Except for information designated confidential by the Commission, any information or materials, including personal information, that are provided as part of a Commission proceeding will become part of the public record.
If no submissions are received, or if submissions are received from a party not directly affected, or if submissions are frivolous, vexatious or of little merit, the Commission may render a decision on the application without further notice or without a public hearing.
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