September 17 Lamont Leader

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Canada Post union bans delivery of Neighbourhood Mail

The ban means that as of this week we can not get our free-to-readers newspapers we pay Canada Post to deliver to rural boxes. This also applies to fliers that local businesses are attempting to get to their clients. Until CUPW sorts out its dispute please read the Leader online https://www.patreon.com/collection/1250234?view=expanded or pick up at your participating village or town offices and many community-minded businesses.

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Youth charged in Bruderheim stabbing

A 14-year-old male has been charged after he stabbed an older man in Bruderheim on Sept. 8.

RCMP Cpl. Troy Savinkoff con-

firmed the incident and said a 36-year old man received a single stab wound and was taken to hospital where he was expected to recover.

Savinkoff said the youth was charged with aggravated assault and taken before the justice of the peace. He was released and will be back in court on Sept. 24 in Fort Saskatchewan.

New short line railroad announced for AIHA

During a presentation by Liz Cornfield from the Genesee and Wyoming Railroad during the Alberta Industrial Heartland’s annual conference Sept. 11, the company announced it will be putting in a rail yard in the Heartland.

Cornfield gave a brief overview of the company stating it had been operating for 125 years.

Owned by Brookfield Properties it owns or leases more than 100 freight railroads across North America serving 2,000 customers with more than 13,000

track miles.

Originally headquartered in Rochester, New York, it is now headquartered in Darien, Connecticut.

“We’re a leader among our peers,” stated Cornfield.

She said the company works very hard to provide excellent customer services.

In their announcement, she said its subsidiary, Alberta Heartland Railway, had entered into an agreement with Gasia Energy Corp. including a longterm lease of more than 50 acres on which it intends to construct a multi

service rail terminal to serve Gasia and other AHR customers.

Located east of the North Saskatchewan River on Highway 830 between Highway 15 and Township Road 560, the proposed terminal boasts proximity to several of the largest industrial facilities within the Alberta Industrial Heartland and is contiguous to Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) and Canadian National (CN) rail lines.

Once fully built, the terminal will feature multiple loop tracks and provide customers with freight-rail trans-

portation, as well as a suite of other services, including storage for up to 1,200 railcars and railcar-to-truck transloading.

Gasia, itself, has acquired a site and completed engineering to build a 62,000 barrel per day processing plant near Bruderheim.

It has also received permitting from the Alberta Energy Regulator and construction is expected to start in the third quarter of this year with completion and start up expected in late 2027.

The Genesee and Wyoming Railroad used time allotted at the Alberta Industrial Heartland Association’s annual conference, Sept. 11, to announce they are building a new yard in the Heartland west of Bruderheim. The new railway yard will go by the name of Alberta Heartland Railway.

Lamont Community Awareness

At least six groups manned tables at the Town of Lamont’s Community Awareness event Sept. 10 at the local arena, showcasing groups both in and outside the town to local residents.

Participants included Bruderheim Minor Sports, Lamont Light Up Committee, Lamont Playschool, Lamont Alliance Church, Town of Lamont council, as well as the Chipman Players.

Keiron Willis, President of the Chipman Players, said the group is looking to re-start a youth section of the local acting troupe, which was shut down during the COVID pandemic.

“After COVID it was really hard to start (the youth Players group) back up,” said Willis. “I keep getting questions about it so I figured its obviously time to start again.”

Willis said children wanting to join should be able to read and can fill other roles such as sound production and stage set up if they aren’t comfortable acting on stage.

Additionally, members of the Lamont Light Up committee were also on hand dressed festively and spreading the word about the Light Up committee’s activities for the coming season.

Chairperson Dorothee Saleski said the group will be working to set up the holiday displays all through Oct and Nov to be ready for the big day Nov. 29.

“That's when Santa comes to turn (everything) on,” said Saleski.

“That's also the day we have all the fun activities going on throughout the morning to celebrate the kick off of the season.”

Meanwhile, Town of Lamont council members manned a table, speaking to residents

and helping promote the town at the Community Awareness event.

Normally a sevenmember council team, the group are short two members after the resignation of former mayor Kirk Perrin in 2024 and the resignation of former town councillor Dave Taylor in Jan. Both resignations met conditions according to the Municipal Government Act where a byelection was not required.

In terms of the upcoming Oct. 20 election, all five council members have filed their nominations according to the

Town’s website and returning officer Betty Malica, including two newcomers.

So far, candidates for Town Mayor are Paul Desrosiers and current Mayor Jody Foulds.

Candidates for the six

Once again, I have the privilege of running as a candidate in the upcoming election, as Councilor for the Town of Lamont.

I have provided leadership, support and several successful initiatives on the following committees:

Chair: Parks & Recreation Committee

Vice–Chair:Lamont County Housing Foundation

Vice–Chair: Economic DevelopmentCommittee

Vice–Chair: Lamont Rural Health Committee

council positions so far include newcomer Lynn Huxley and incumbents Linda Sieker, Colleen Holowaychuk, Perry Koroluk and Al Harvey. The deadline for nominations is Sept. 22 at noon.

In 2022 I was honored to receive the Queen Elizabeth 11 Platinum Jubilee Medal for community service. I have no empty campaign promises, only a pledge to continue hard work and dedication as we build our community. Linda Sieker

Chipman Players President Keiron Willis (L) and Cindy Lindemann (R) hold up a sign at the Lamont Community Awareness event Sept. 10, showing the resurrection of the Jr. Chipman Players acting group.
Lamont Town Council members at the town's Community Awareness event.  Back row: (L-R) Councillors Al Harvey, Colleen Holowaychuk and Perry Koroluk. Seated in front are Mayor Jody Foulds and Councillor Linda Sieker.

Cando introduces lithium-ion powered switcher

Rail & Terminals which operates a massive storage yard just north of Fort Saskatchewan in Surgeon County, has unveiled its new battery powered locomotive.

The switching locomotive was unveiled to the public for the first time at Cando’s Southlands Terminal, on

Sept. 10.

Our new locomotive, retrofitted from a traditional diesel unit, is fully electric and zero-emission. Purpose-built for industrial and closedloop switching operations, it eliminates harmful emissions, reduces noise, cuts energy costs, and supports Canada’s net-zero climate goals.

The company says it’s

a groundbreaking innovation in Canadian rail.

This project reflects our continued commitment to safety, innovation, and environmental leadership,” said Paul Duncan, Chief Operating Officer for Cando.

“By investing in battery-powered technology, we will be reducing emissions in our operations while creating a

scalable solution for cold weather climates that can transform industrial rail switching operations across our network.”

“Lithium-ion locomotives are truly for inside of a yard operation because you don’t have access to continuous electricity as we transport across Canada,” added Cornick.

Cando Rail and Terminals currently has 110 diesel-electric locomotives in its fleet but over the next few decades said the plan is to swap them out for lithium-ion locomotives.

The range of the locomotive is dependent on the load.

The company says charging the battery is no different than an electric vehicle.

“Same thing here,” stated Cornick. “The guys go on a lunch break, they’ll just charge

it up, so it’ll constantly be going,”

Cornick is also not worried about Alberta’s cold winters.

“I feel really confident that we’re good here in Alberta,” he added. The locomotive was opera-

tionalized in Manitoba to withstand minus-40 C weather.

Cando hopes to have a manufacturing plant in Alberta to help develop a fleet of battery-operated locomotives in the next five to 10 years.

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Cando Rail and Terminals showed off their new battery powered switcher locomotive on Sept. 10. The new unit repurposed from a diesel unit is designed to operate in industrial and closed loop switching operations.

Opinion

Province moves to alleviate youth unemployment

When Alberta Premier Danielle Smith spoke at the Alberta Industrial Heartland Annual Conference held at Edmonton’s Shaw Convention Centre Sept. 11, one area she spoke about was youth unemployment.

She spoke in a panel session with Alberta Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration Joseph Schow and AIHA executive director Mark Plamondon.

She began her comments by stating she wasn’t disappointed in the announcement of the primary favoured construction projects identified that day by Prime Minister Mark Carney.

“This government is very pro-development and I look at some of the projects in the Heartland. It is just a massive development in the area and it just shows that both the private sector and the Provincial government can work well together.”

She mentioned some of the government programs that would help gas and energy projects move ahead.

Schow also spoke about employment in the region.

“We have brought help for jobs and skills training and further announcements would be made shortly in this area."

Schow said if the Heartland was going to have the projects it had planned, it then needed to have the workforce to staff them.

“Jobs’ skills training is a large program for us,” he said. “We’re doing a tremendous job with our post secondaries and they are doing a tremendous job to ensure students are prepared to enter the workforce.”

He acknowledged there is a wide gap between the knowledge students are getting right now and the knowledge they will need moving forward, because technology is changing so rapidly.

“We’re staying on top of it, however, and we’re able to train Canadians where possible and fill the gaps with foreign workers when necessary.”

He said the province needed more control over its immigration system so they could bring in workers with the types of skills needed right now.

“We have a very serious youth unemployment crisis,” said Smith and she added it had gotten worse over the years. She said it had been at 14 per cent when her government won election and it now stood at 17 per cent.

“For young males in the 17 to 25 age bracket … you have to look at that and say what if they don’t get that first job at a McDonald’s or other entry level position.”

He then might not get a second job or a third job and then what happens.

“We have to make sure our young people have opportunities,” Smith said.

“We need the business sector to give these kids a chance,” stated Smith. Give them their first jobs. “

She said she knew the youth came with special demands now such as wanting weekends off to go camping or other activities, but they had been given a chance.

“As government we’re doing our part with supports... we need business to do your part.”

Under it, $8 million will be earmarked to help youth aged 15 to 24 find meaningful work and build skills for the future.

Through the initiative employers will receive direct funding to offset the costs of hiring, training, and employing youth with $4,000 available for hiring one to two workers for a combined minimum of 400 hours or $7,500 for hiring three to five young workers for  a combined minimum of 750 hours.

The program is expected to support around 1,000 businesses and create opportunities for 2,500 young people.

The incentive will be administered by CAREERS: The Next Generation Foundation, a trusted not-for-profit connecting youth with employment since 1997. Eligible employers include Alberta-based for-profit businesses, non-profits, and First Nations or Métis Settlements.

Hopefully local chambers of commerce will also work with Careers The Next Generation Foundation to further promote the programs in their communities.

“Who knows better what the Alberta workforce needs than those Albertans doing the hiring.” Schow stated.

Shortly after the session ended the government announced the Alberta Youth Employment Incentive.

In addition, the province is rolling out a new digital badge for workers who complete 200 hours and pass a skills assessment, giving employers a way to identify candidates with verified on-the-job training.

Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter
Jana Semeniuk Reporter Crystal Moren

As we cool our heels waiting for the canola to ripen, I’ve managed to tackle some cleaning, decluttering, and organizing projects at home. I’ve suspended my Live YouTube sales. Most of my buyers are Americans and thanks to Trump’s economic policies, continuing is untenable. What I will be doing after harvest is what’s known as a Drop Sale. It will be offered to Canadians only. I can only imagine the relief I’ll feel and the time, money, and effort I’ll save. It’s requiring a rethinking of my approach plus careful lotting and pricing of products. The latest information I have says that both Canada and the US are at risk of a recession as the impact of Trump’s policies filter down to businesses and families. Way to go, fool. A lot of thinking and

FROM WHERE I SIT: On My Mind

very simple activities take place at the fringes of one’s attention and awareness. Have you noticed this phenomenon in your life? You may be waiting for some big thing to start and/or end like harvest, a family wedding, an elective surgery, a big project at work, a municipal election. Until the event is successfully completed, our focus and attention are splintered and our energy is left idling. That’s how I’m feeling right now. I’m doing busy work that is advancing projects without demanding too much of me in the process. I find myself snatching a few minutes or a few hours here and there between the time spent in the combine. I’ve had to literally drop what’s in my hands to go on a parts run. So, speaking of thinking, here’s a sampling… I’m glad the political shows have restarted again for the fall. I still think Vassy Kapelos, the host of Power Play and Question Period is the best interviewer of her type anywhere around.

I’m surprised she hasn’t been headhunted away to a US network. If you

want a more thorough BS-free understanding of Canadian politics do yourself a favour and tune in to her shows.

There continues to be reasons to be alarmed at every level of power. I think it’s foolhardy that in Alberta critical vaccines will now be a feefor-service item. Uptake on flu, Covid, pneumonia, RSV vaccines have been historically low and there are the deaths to prove it. Now, when most people are suffering some financial hardship is not the time to erect another obstacle to wider vaccine coverage among seniors. I wonder which bean-counter decided this was a great way to save some moola. I’m no genius but I suspect extended hospital stays treating flu, pneumonia, Covid and other serious diseases is going to cost more than doses of vaccine. If they are concerned about vaccine waste using the pharmacy delivery system, then go back to public health clinics instead of throwing the baby out with the bathwater.

Putin’s drones ‘accidentally’ wandering into Poland’s air space nineteen, yes nineteen times

Lamont and Area

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is a classic Russian move and should alarm any thinking person. It is an egregious act that must be dealt with by world powers. Every day since Russia invaded Ukraine has made the world a more dangerous place and the final ending to this nightmare has yet to be written.

The assassination of Charlie Kirk by someone who disagreed with his views is the latest example of the degradation of societal behaviour. When did killing someone with

an opposing view become the answer? Are these the depths to which we’ve dropped? Unintentionally turning your target into a martyr may not be the result you wanted.

And finally, very soon we need to turn our attention to local municipal elections. Years ago, when the provincial government was surveying Albertans about the timing of these elections, I weighed in opposing fall elections. For rural municipalities, you

couldn’t pick a worse time. Farmers are busy, preoccupied, and distracted until the crop is in. And that’s on a good year. Only those with a deep, abiding belief in democracy and the preciousness of having the freedom to vote will actually drop everything to cast a ballot. I’ve worked provincial and federal elections where many young people were showing up to vote for their first time. That gave me hope. All this and more has been on my mind lately, from where I sit.

From the files of the Lamont Leader

Bruderheim Community Church 4904 Queen Street 780-796-3775

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June 3, 2014 issue of the Lamont Leader: Lamont Mayor Bill Skinner (left) along with his family participated in the Chipman motorcycle rally to support the Chipman Fire Department. The event was well attended.

- The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Bruderheim partners with Rocket Doctor to bridge healthcare gap

Residents of Bruderheim will soon have easier access to healthcare, thanks to a new collaboration between the Town and Rocket Doctor, a Canadian virtual medical service.

The partnership aims to address long-standing challenges in rural healthcare, where limited access to family physicians and long wait times have often left residents struggling to get timely care.

Through Rocket Doctor, Bruderheim residents will be able to connect with licensed Alberta physicians by phone, video call, or secure messaging—all from the comfort of their own homes.

The service is covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), meaning patients with a valid health card can access most appointments at no cost.

Since launching in the province, Rocket Doctor has already connected with over 71,000 Alberta patients, supported by

approximately 70 licensed physicians working virtually through the platform.

Its expansion into Bruderheim is expected to ease pressure on nearby emergency rooms and reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for basic medical needs.

Bruderheim

the challenges of visiting a doctor's office when you are ill or potentially contagious. The service allows for initial appointments to be conducted from home for

they can provide their information. They'll then receive appointment times via text or email.”

Legisltive clerk, Natalie Nichols, shared “Getting a doctor or a nurse practitioner to practice in a rural setting is challenging. We have developed a new initiative aimed at providing essential services to residents in a medical setting, with a particular focus on the senior community.

“Recognizing that many seniors lack access to these options and often face transportation challenges, we have applied for a grant to bridge this gap. Our program will offer assistance with digital services, ensuring that those most in need can easily access the support they require.

“In our new program, we are also addressing

those with technology, which not only helps prevent the spread of illness, but also allows healthcare providers to be potentially better prepared for a patient's inperson visit, if one is necessary.

“Since starting this initiative in 2024, we've successfully secured grant funding a few months ago. Our longterm vision is to expand our offerings to the community as needs arise, ensuring we can provide flexible, lasting support.

“We are making it easier for residents to book appointments from anywhere and at any time. A simple link on the Bruderheim website will direct them to the Rocket Doctor platform where

Residents can log on 10 minutes before their scheduled time to meet with a doctor virtually. The doctor will address their needs, advise on any further tests, and even send prescriptions directly to their chosen pharmacy. This streamlined process not only prevents the spread of potential viruses but also allows residents to have appointments from the comfort of their own homes.

“To ensure everyone has access to our services, we're launching a virtual clinic to help bridge the digital divide. This in-person support will be available every Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m., and it's open to anyone who needs help with the internet or technology to use our virtual care program.”

While Rocket Doctor can’t provide emergency services or prescriptions for controlled medications, it does offer a wide

range of care options, including diagnosis and treatment for common illnesses, chronic condition management, prescription renewals, lab requisitions, and referrals to specialists.

For Bruderheim residents, this means fewer trips out of town for routine medical needs and quicker access to care in non-urgent situations.

The Town hopes this partnership will also help ease the strain on nearby clinics and hospitals, while giving residents greater peace of mind.

More information on how to access Rocket Doctor will be available through the town’s website and community bulletin boards.

Eighth-Mile Racing at Forestburg (Old Airport) 1km west

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Spectators Welcome! Gate entry is by cash donation

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The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, September 17, 2025 -7

Lamont County council hands out over $66,000 in four cheque presentations

Lamont County Council proudly handed out over $66,000 in four separate cheque presentations during their Sept. 9 County council meeting, including a record amount raised for the County of Lamont Food Bank from the 12th annual Reeve’s Golf

Tournament held Aug. 21 at the Mundare Whitetail Golf Course.

Food Bank treasurer Chris Mintenko was on hand to receive the check for $39,668.08, which will be used for the food bank’s new building fund and Christmas hamper program. Lamont County’s

Economic Development Officer Shane Olsen said the golf tournament was successful.

“We had 144 golfers in attendance that day and overall, it was very successful,” he said. “(We collected) over $39,000 for the food bank which is a new record.”

Two Centennial schol-

Left: County of Lamont Food Bank receives a record donation of over $39,000 from the Reeve's annual Golf Tournament during a cheque presentation Sept. 9. L-R: Deputy Reeve Daniel Warawa, Councillor Roy Anaka, Reeve David Diduck, Food Bank Treasurer Chris Mintenko, Councillor Neil Woitas and Councillor Aaron Wick.Right: Centennial Scholarship winner Gabrielle Wendorff (Wendorff's mother Angel accepted on her behalf) receives $1,000. L-R: Woitas, Anaka, Diduck, Angel Wendorff, Deputy Reeve Warawa and Councillor Wick

Left: Second Centennial Scholarship Winner Christian Nimchuk receives a cheque for $1,000. L-R: Councillor Neil Woitas, Councillor Roy Anaka, Reeve David Diduck, Christian Nimchuk, Deputy Reeve Daniel Warawa and Councillor Aaron Wick. Right: The Lamont Curling Club accepts a donation of $25,000 from the County to help fund the club's new ice plant. L-R: Woitas, Anaka, Warawa, Diduck, Curling Club President Aaron Gieger, Club members Bob Starko, Gerald Maschmeyer and Councillor Wick.

arship awards were handed out next, each for $1,000. Winners were Gabrielle Wendorff, whose mother Angel accepted on her behalf, and Christian Nimchuk.

The final recipients

were the Lamont Curling Club which received a check for $25,000 to help fund the club’s new ice plant being installed next month.

Club member Gerald Maschmeyer said the group is very appreciative of the donation.

“On behalf of the curling club I’d like to thank Lamont County for their support,” he said. “Thank you very much for helping us out.”

Male bodied athletes not welcome in female competitions

A new bill, passed by the provincial government, has eliminated the ability for a transgender female to play on a female-only sports team.

Alberta’s bill 29, the Fairness and Safety in Sport Act, came in to effect Sept. 1 and stipulates only biological females are allowed to compete in female-only sports for ages 12 and over, including school teams.

According to the province’s website, the bill doesn’t apply to intramurals or recreational sports, but female-only leagues, classes or divisions in amateur competitive sport.

Although athletes are not required to prove their sex at registration, they are required to fill out a form declaring it.

Elk Island Public Schools have introduced a Female Sports Eligibility Declaration where parents confirm their child meets the eligibility requirements including their sex at birth.

According to EIPS’ Welcoming, Caring, Respectful and Safe Learning policy, a team member’s eligibility in terms of their sex can be challenged by a submis-

sion in writing to the division’s Executive Director of Division Supports who will decide whether reasonable grounds exist to proceed with the challenge.

At the point it proceeds, the student in question’s parent must submit a valid birth registration document. Additionally, the division must notify the minister within three days of any challenge submitted as well as the division’s final decision within 30 days.

Egale Canada, an organization which wants to ‘improve the lives of 2SLGBTQI people in Canada’, condemn the bill as unfair on their website.

“This legislation is rooted in disinformation about trans athletes –particularly trans women in sport,” stated the website. “Denying trans youth access to inclusive sport isolates them from their peers and deepens the harms they already face.”

The Alberta Parents’ Union Executive

Director Jeff Park, however, said the bill is a step in the right direction in protecting girls in sports.

“Parents, particularly parents of girls who play sports, are pleased that the Province requires these policies by a board that must include female sex at birth as an eligibility requirement to participate in girls' sports,” said Park.

“We hope the Executive Director of Division Supports takes that responsibility seriously and would never consider dismissing a meritorious challenge.”

Minister of Tourism and Sport, Andrew Boitchenko, was quoted on the province’s website saying girls should be allowed to compete on an even playing field.

“When Albertans participate in the sports they love, they should be able to do so on a level playing field. No athlete should have an unfair advantage, and no athlete should have to put themselves at risk of harm to participate. The Fairness and Safety in Sport Act and regulation

NOTICE OF NOMINATION DAY

Local Authorities Election Act

(Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: Town of Mundare

Notice is hereby given that Nomination day is Monday, September 22, 2025, and that nominations for the election of candidates for the following offices will be received at the Town of Mundare office ending at 12:00 noon on Nomination Day.

Office(s)

Number of Vacancies Mayor1 Councilor4

Location (Address) of Local Jurisdiction Office:

Town of Mundare, 5128-50 Street Mundare, AB T0B 3H0

DATED at the Town of Mundare, in the Province of Alberta this 3 Day of September 2025

Lisa Euchuk Returning Officer

are critical to making this vision a reality in our province,” said Boitchenko.

Many have spoken out around the ‘uneven’ playing field of allowing males to compete on girls’ teams as transgender. Linda Blade, Ph.D., Sport Performance Coach and author of Breaking the silence: Female athletes speak about safe and fair sport in Canada, said in a 2023 online post that males have enormous advantages over females.

“The scientific evidence is clear that malebodied athletes – especially those who have gone through puberty –enjoy insurmountable

physical advantages over female competitors, independently of the level of testosterone in their body,” she said in her post.

“And since it is bodies that compete in sport, and not subjective gender identities, the result is that the very existence of a separate female category in sport is threatened.”

While only girls will be able to participate on female-only teams, the province will also support the expansion of coed teams to ensure transgender athletes can still participate in sports. In addition, a female will still be able to participate in a male-only sport.

Cases where females have been injured by trans athletes, include an incident in 2022, where North Carolina high school junior Payton McNabb suffered severe injuries after a male team member spiked a ball in her face during a volleyball game. McNabb suffered a concussion, brain bleed and permanent whiplash, later suffering partial paralysis and vision problems. In 2024, a trans athlete playing basketball for the KIPP Academy collegiate charter school in Massachusetts, injured several players during a game and eventually forced the team to forfeit. Videos of the game, and the previous incident in North Carolina, are currently widely circulating online.

Notice of Nomination Day

Local Authorities Election Act (Section 26)

Local Jurisdiction: Elk Island Public Schools, Province of Alberta

NOTICE is hereby given that NOMINATION DAY is Monday, Sept. 22, 2025

12 p.m. (noon) on Nomination Day.

CANDIDATE INFORMATION GUIDE eips.ca

Lamont receives second grant instalment for water intake

In an uptake on the North Saskatchewan process water intake and line project, Lamont County council was told Sept. 9 that the second instalment of grant funding for the project had been received.

The county, which will receive $16.67 million for the engineering, planning and construction of the water intake, received $5,833,333. as its second instalment.

When completed the line will take raw water from the river to primarily serve industrial purposes in the Lamont County section of Alberta’s Industrial Heartland between the towns of Bruderheim and Lamont.

“We have room to grow and strong ties to the energy sector, access to rail and airports, and significant transportation networks,” said Lamont County’s Economic Development Manager, Shane Olson.

The land for the intake was donated by Inter Pipeline allowing the county easy access to the river.

Suspects sought in attempted Lamont Burger Baron break-in

Police are searching for two suspects who were captured on video surveillance trying to break in to the Lamont Burger Baron restaurant on Sept. 13.

RCMP Cpl. Troy Savinkoff confirmed that police received a report of the attempted break in after midnight on Sept. 13.

Security video footage showed one suspect using an angle grinder, producing a large amount of sparks, trying to gain access to the rear of the restaurant while the second suspect stood nearby. Their attempt ultimately failed and the suspects left.

One suspect is described as having a fair complexion, wearing black pants, white shirt,

two toned black jacket with a black bag across their body with white socks and red shoes.

The other suspect is described as having a fair complexion, wearing dark pants, black and white shoes, black jacket, teal hoodie and carrying a black backpack.

If you have any information on these sus-

pects, please call the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP detachment at 780-9926100. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 (TIPS), online at www. P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

A screenshot of security footage captured during the early hours of Sept. 13 shows two suspects trying to break into the Lamont Burger Baron using an angle grinder.
Lamont town councillor Dave Taylor leads a group of participants in the Lamont Terry Fox Run to loosen up their muscles prior to embarking on their run or walk around the town Sept. 14. Curt Malica of the Star Knights of Columbus Our Lady of Lourdes Council said his organization has organized the Lamont run for the past 37 years. John Mather photo.
Lamont High School students strain as they pull with all their might in the Clash of the Classes Finale during a break in classes Sept. 12. John Mather Photo

Final night of pickleball caps off successful season in Lamont Curling Club

A partnership between the Town of Lamont and the Lamont Curling Club helped ensure a very successful pickleball season this year.

The Town’s pickleball program allowed anyone interested in playing to join the fun for free from June 18 to their final night of the year Sept. 10.

Pickleball in Lamont wound up attracting dozens of players, including whole families where kids had just as much fun as their parents.

“Anyone can do it from little kids to older adults. It’s kind of a cross between ping pong and tennis,” said Taylor. “I’ve seen grandparents, parents and grandkids all come to play.”

Taylor said three courts have been permanently painted onto the concrete surface in the

Lamont’s Community Development Coordinator, Dave Taylor, said it was the first year the town held their pickleball season inside the Lamont Curling Club, verses the town’s arena, and the arrangement was perfect.

curling club, which will not interfere with the curling ice being laid down next month. The Pickleball program will use the curling club during the off months after the ice has been removed.

“It just worked out perfectly to put three courts in here. We bought the nets last year for the pilot program and invested in the paint (to paint the court lines),” he said.

Taylor said a group of three pickleball enthusiasts, Barb Burger, Jean Stacey and Ed Medynski,

have volunteered to help pickleball nights run smoothly while offering tips and advice for new players.

Taylor said he anticipates the program increasing in popularity and is excited for the next season.

“The Town is 100% committed to working with our volunteer group again, and offering the facility to use for pickleball all summer,” he said adding he hopes to start earlier next year.

“We should be able to start up maybe in May.”

2025 FALL SECTION

Lamont volunteer Jean Stacey gives pointers to a young pickleball player during the program's last pickleball night of the year Sept. 10.
Photo: Jana Semeniuk

Town of Lamont cracking down on derelict properties and animal control

The Town of Lamont council passed one new bylaw and amended another during their Sept. 9 regular council meeting, addressing the problems of both derelict properties and increasing incidents of nondomestic animals in town.

Chief Administrative Officer Tyler Edworthy said the Residential Assessment Sub-Class bylaw will give council a new assessment class for derelict properties allowing for an increase to their annual tax rate.

Residential properties will now be classed as residential or derelict residential in the 2026 tax year assessments.

“Derelict properties will be identified by administration based on eight qualifying criteria and then further con-

firmed in consultation with Tanmar consulting,” said Edworthy. “If a property is deemed as derelict, the residential assessment subclass bylaw will allow for the property to be taxed at a different municipal tax rate set by council annually.”

According to the new bylaw, a derelict property is defined as ‘a building or land that has been abandoned, neglected, is in a state of significant disrepair and deteriorated to the point where it is no longer habitable or usable.” The definition included eight criteria such as structural damage, graffiti, and pet infestations.

Edworthy said property owners will be given opportunities to correct the issues.

Meanwhile, in terms of the current animal con-

Parcel #1 - Selling the NE 13-47-18 W4M

Being 160 Acres M/L - Camrose County

Parcel #2 - Selling the NW 14-54-15 W4M

Being 160 Acres M/L - County of Two Hills

Parcel #3 - Selling the NE 11-54-15 W4M

Being 159 Acres M/L - County of Minburn

Parcel #4 - Selling the SE 11-54-15 W4M

Being 159 Acres M/L - County of Minburn

Unreserved Real Estate Auction for Dave & Brenda Stokes

For More Information Call: 780-905-8045

Street Address: 5302 46th Ave, Two Hills, AB

Legal: Plain 6104NY, Blk 15

Being 2.17 Acres M/L

Real Estate Transactions are being Handled by Morrison Realty Kim Hughes (403) 704-3141 & Allen Olson (403) 783-0556

trol bylaw, Edworthy said horses in town have become an issue for residents thus prompting the need to amend the bylaw. He proposed adding two additional penalties including a $200 fine for harbouring a non-domestic animal or livestock as well as a $100 fine for permitting them within the town limits.

“The issues that have recently come forward are in relation to horses within town, creating some safety concerns,” he said. “That's the most common one that we've received.”

Domestic animals are defined in the bylaw as animals which are normally kept inside a dwelling but does not include livestock or poultry.

VILLAGE OF ANDREW

$20/wk

ANNOUNCEMENTS

With deep sorrow we announce the death of Helene Page, who passed away peacefully in Airdrie on August 12, 2025 at the age of 85.

Her ashes will be scattered at Forestburg Cemetery at noon on October 4, 2025 in a small ceremony attended by family. All are welcome to attend.

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Brian's Market will not be beside the Drug Store in Daysland unless there are orders for raspberries or tomatoes, when they are ready, or strawberries if they get ready. It will only be for pickup orders, so you must call Brian for an appointment to get a time and day for pickup, at 780-678-0053. Brian's Market Garden would like to thank Mark and M.J. Badry for letting me use the empty lot by the Drug Store. I also would like to thank Flagstaff County for letting me take part in the Market, and I also want to thank all the customers who came out to support me in 2025.

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COMING EVENTS

Variety Vendor Markets in Hardisty and Killam. Discover local businesses, crafters, and hot/cold food.

Hardisty Elk’s Hall, Saturday, September 27, Noon to 8 p.m.

Killam United Church Tuesday, October 7, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Apply with Tiffany 780-280-0690

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Annual General Meeting for Friends of Hardisty and District Public Library Society Tues Sept 23, 2025 at 7:30 pm at Town of Hardisty's Library Looking for new members! 36/37c

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Order Fall Potatoes and Carrots!!! East of Sedgewick, off Highway 13, turn north on RR122, then go north 3 miles. Helen Tanton - 780-888-6800 28tfnc

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CLASSIFIEDS

COMING EVENTS

The family of Gwen Uhlick Schmidt invites you to join in a Celebration of Life on Sunday, Sept. 21/25 at 11 a.m. at the Community Centre in Calling Lake, AB. Light lunch to follow.

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Join us for a Free Movie Night. Build your awareness and understanding for Truth and Reconciliation.

Flagstaff Community Adult Learning and DKR United Churches are inviting you to a viewing of the award winning documentary "The Pass System" on Thursday, Sept 24th at 7 pm at the Killam Theatre (The Living Room) on Main Street. Refreshments to follow. Ages 12+.

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SAVE THE DATE

Tofield & Area Welcome Committee presents Alberta Culture Days Friday, September 19, 2025 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Tofield Community Hall

Join us for a celebration of arts, culture, heritage, diversity, and community spirit of Tofield and Area!

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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

Pyrenees Puppies, 7 months old. Female and male. Asking $100. Call Garth at 780-688-3514. 36/38c

FOR SALE

Great Pyrenees about 1.5 years old. 2 females and 1 male, in the Holden area. Asking $200 per dog. Call 780-688-3514

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Multiple Items For Sale

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

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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 - 225. Crystal Springs.  403-820-0961. Quality guaranteed.

Equipment For Sale

• Zero Turn Cub Cadet Lawnmower 54" with approximately 250 hours 2 years old

• Kubota Side by Side with Dump Box

• Massey Ferguson model 255 with approximately 3,000 hours with ease-on front end loader.

• Restored W30 International. New paint, runs good. Call Norman at 780-385-8814.

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Lamont Vision Centre is hiring!

- Optician (licensed or student)

- Receptionist

Flexible hours for both positions. Please email resume to bailee.cvc@gmail.com to apply. 34/37P

JP’s Country Daycare located in Daysland, Alberta is looking for full-time and part-time Early Childhood Educators - ECEs. Willing to train, Government Top Up, Wage to be discussed based on experience. Resumes can be sent to jpcountrydaycare@gmail.com 36/39c

In Memory of Sylvia Wold. Nothing can ever take away, The love a heart holds dear, Fond memories linger every day, Remembrance keeps her near. With love, Dale and family.

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

WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678 www.integritybuilt.com.

SEPT/ OCT SENIORS SPECIAL! 10% MORE ON ALL CASH PAYOUTS. SILVER Coins, Canadian Coins, GOLD coins, chains, rings...We buy them ALL! Silver flatware, tea sets, all things silver, Canadian Mint sets. We come to the privacy of your home, no fees! Call Joy or Ted 1-825-966-4373.

Dealership signs, service station, gas pumps, globes, oil cans, Red Indian, White Rose, Buffalo, Husky, Ford, GM, Dodge, Tire signs, Coke, Pepsi, etc. Call 306-221-5908.

CUPW to refuse Neighbourhood Mail and flyers indefinitely: how it will affect your copy of the Lamont Leader

Canadian Union of Postal Workers has announced that as of Monday, Sept. 15 at 12:01 a.m. local time, its members will stop delivering flyers and products, including newspapers,

back in November, 2024. Starting with the September 17th papers, the Lamont Leader will be available at the following locations during their regular business hours:

Newspaper clients remain among Canada Post’s highest spending and most reliable clients, and it’s never been more clear that our business is not valued.

sent under a Neighbourhood Mail agreement.

The Lamont Leader is mailed under the “Neighbourhood Mail” agreement and as a result, will be forced to use alternate means once again, as was the case during the mail strike

• Town of Lamont office

• Town of Mundare office

• Town of Bruderheim office

• Village of Andrew office

As well, Leader staff will provide more copies for pick up at some of

our regular distribution places throughout the County of Lamont.

As always, there will also be extras available at the Lamont Leader office.

You can view the paper online anytime at the below website. Or follow our Patreon for free (no need to pay to subscribe – the Leader is always free) and receive a digital copy in your email inbox every single week!

https://www.patreon.co m/cw/cariboupublishing/home

News Media Canada

president and CEO Paul Deegan has escalated this critical issue with the office of the minister responsible (Patty Hajdu) and is awaiting a response.

Said Canada Post in a

statement: “We are disappointed in CUPW’s decision to ban the delivery of Neighbourhood Mail, which we only learned about through their news conference.

This decision will impact the thousands of Canadian businesses that reach their customers with information and offers through the mail. It will also impact CUPW-represented

employees who are paid to deliver flyers on top of their wages.”

Eric Anderson, Sr. VP of Caribou Publishing and Associate Publisher of the Lamont Leader, commented: “Once again, community newspapers in Canada are caught in the crossfire of this endless Canada Post/CUPW dispute.

“Neither side is willing to bend, yet both sides seem hellbent on accelerating the entire corporation past the point of no return.

“Newspaper clients remain among Canada Post’s highest spending and most reliable clients, and it’s never been more clear that our business is not valued; whether it’s by the corporation itself or those tasked with delivering our product.”

COUNCIL UPDATE – September 9 Meeting and Election Reminder

Council has directed that Administration publish a summary of decisions from the past two Council meetings each month. Meeting highlights are also summarized on the Lamont County website, and social media after each Council meeting. Once approved at the next Council meeting, all directions, approvals, and items discussed are in the approved minutes posted at lamontcounty.ca.

The following are updates from the past two Council Meetings, including important initiatives and activities that were discussed, debated, reviewed, and what Council has directed Administration to complete and implement.

September 9 Regular Council meeting (minutes approved at the next Council meeting). This is the last planned meeting before the 2025 Municipal Election. Highlights from this meeting include: Grants and Scholarships (lamontcounty.ca/news)

Council presented its two Centennial Scholarship Awards to Gabrielle Wendorf (accepted by her mother Angel) and Christian Nimchuk.

Council also presented a $25,000 grant to the Lamont Curling Club to assist with ice machine repairs.

The Reeve’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament saw $39,668.08 raised for the County of Lamont Food Bank new building fund and Christmas Hamper program –

RCMP Delegations

Council received delegations from all three RCMP detachments, –and have seen some positive trends around crime prevention.

Council Business

- Council received update on its second tri-annual report, related to the 2025 Business Plan initiatives. As of July 31, 31 of 42 initiatives are on track or complete, which is a good indication of strong progress towards completion by year end.

- Council approved sale of 22 properties acquired through tax recovery.

Election Reminders and Important Dates (lamontcounty.ca/municipal-election)

Vote!

On October 20, exercise your right to vote in the 2025 Municipal Election. Voting commences at Polling Stations in your Division from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on election day.

Residents can also vote on the day of the election or at the advance polls. You can only vote in one Division.

o or provincial or local government, containing your name and address of residence, that contains a photo, for example, Alberta Driver’s License; or

o O showing full name and full current physical address - for example, a Bank Statement, Utility Bill or Property Tax Assessment. AND

o Complete a statement to establish their eligibility to vote, or

o Be listed on the Permanent Electors Register. You can make sure you are registered to vote at voterlink.ab.ca

Advance Voting Dates and Location (Oct. 10-11)

Vote in advance if you cannot vote on Election Day:

o The Advance Polling Station is located at Lamont Hall, 4844 - 49 Street, Lamont, Alberta to vote on: Friday, October 10 (2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.) and, Saturday, October 11 (10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.).

Nomination Deadline (to run as Councillor)

Other Information

- Rural Municipalities of Alberta/Alberta Municipalities videos:

o Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) -

o - Municipal Elections Overview

o -

- Council approved drainage improvements on TWP560 for water and - Council was provided summary of its 2025 Gravel Program.

- Council Procedure Bylaw (lamontcounty.civicweb.net/document/17838).

- Lamont County Council Boards, Committees, and Commissions (lamontcounty.ca/governance/boards-committees).

- New Council Organizational Meeting – October 28 at 9 a.m. (lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes).

Eric Anderson

Liberals tour Alberta Industrial Heartland

While the federal Liberal caucus met in Edmonton last week, several members took the opportunity to tour Alberta’s Industrial Heartland on Sept. 10.

The visit highlighted the Heartland’s worldscale industrial projects, including leading carbon capture and storage (CCS) facilities, advanced manufacturing operations, and new low-carbon initiatives, reported a Heartland press release.

Delegates saw how the region is not only advancing Canada’s netzero goals but also creating jobs, attracting investment, and getting major projects built on the ground.

The tour included a stop at Dow’s new, stateof-the-art facility—part of one of the largest pri-

vate sector investments in Alberta’s history— showcasing the scale of innovation, economic growth, and long-term opportunity taking shape in the Heartland.

“These site visits are an important opportunity to show the federal government how Alberta’s Industrial Heartland is competing and winning in global markets,” said Fort Saskatchewan Mayor Gale Katchur, chair of Alberta’s Industrial Heartland Association (AIHA).

“Our region is not only Canada’s largest hydrocarbon processing hub but also a place where world-scale projects are getting built, creating thousands of jobs and driving long-term economic opportunity for the country.”

Thank You

Dear Lamont Council and Organizers of the Reeve's Golf Tournament,

On behalf of the County of Lamont Food Bank, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude for your generous support through the annual Reeve's Golf Tournament. Your commitment to directing the proceeds of this event to our building fund shows not only your investment in the future of our food bank, but also your care for the families and individuals in our community who rely on us.

We are especially thankful for your ongoing partnership over the years. The contributions from past tournaments have made a meaningful difference, and your continued support affirms the value that the food bank brings to our county. Together, we are building more than a

Please know that your generosity is helping us take a critical step forward as we work toward a new building that will allow us to meet the growing demand for our services. We are proud to have the county standing beside us in this effort.

$38,108.08 will go toward our building fund. The proceeds from the 50-50 in the amount of $1,075.00, the amount donated back to us from the winner of $575.00, and a $5.00 donation for a total of $1,655.00 will go towards our grocery expenses.

With sincere appreciation,

Gracious Volunteers of the County of Lamont Food Bank

Phone: 780-895-2233 | Toll

Thank you to the sponsors, supporters, players, and all of those who worked behind the scenes to make this event happen.

Also, a huge thank you to ALL of our supporters. Your donations, fund raisers, and volunteering have helped us get to where we are. We wouldn't be here without you.

Reminders and Other Items of Interest

2025 Municipal Election: Candidate Nomination Deadline - Sept. 22 (NOON). Vote in your Division on Oct. 20 (or advance polls) voterlink.ab.ca

September 15-21 is Rail Safety Week in Lamont County (operationlifesaver.ca/initiatives/campaigns/rail-safety-week-2025).

Community Connect & Learn – FCSS EVENT: Oct. 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Manville. The 2025 Non-Profit Conference. To attend this FREE event, register with FCSS by Oct. 10. Learn more at lamontcounty.ca/community-programming It's harvest season! Lamont County wishes all producers a safe and prosperous harvest. Watch for larger (& slow-moving) vehicles/equipment that may be on roadways during your travels. Some of these vehicles are wider than normal & need more space on the road. Keep your distance and proceed/pass with caution when safe—usually vehicles will pull to the side of the road periodically to allow you to pass. Be patient and safe!

Recent News Releases:

o NEWS RELEASE - Process Water Intake Second Installment Grant Funding Received (Sept. 10)

o NEWS RELEASE - Reeve’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament Sets Another Record Year – Raising Over $39,000 for the Food Bank! (Sept. 9)

o NEWS RELEASE – Needed Replacement and Community Support Garners a Curling Club Grant (Sept. 9)

o NEWS RELEASE - 2025 Centennial Scholarship Awards Two Recipients (Sept. 9)

o Temporary Road Closures (Sept. 4)

Community Services: Serving Lamont County, Lamont, Bruderheim, Mundare, Andrew & Chipman

(VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming or scan the QR code above for full posters, dates, contact information & registration info. or call 780-895-2233 for info./registration). Current CALC, FCSS & KFRN and seniors’ activities include:

1. KFRN: Park Play & Parenting: September 23-24 in Bruderheim, Mundare and Lamont (signup.com/ho/GSFrnWD).

2. KFRN: Cooking with Your Littles: Sept. 17 & 18 in Chipman and Lamont (signup.com/go/YWQZJna).

3. FCSS: Parents and Tots: Contact Community Services for more information or to sign up to assist. Programs in Lamont and Mundare.

4. Seniors’ Coffee: 10-11 a.m. (Wed.) in Andrew, & (Thurs.) and in Mundare. Join FCSS for coffee, conversation, snacks, & assistance with senior-related supports. Seniors Coffee is in St. Michael (Thurs.) from 10 a.m. to noon.

See Lamont County’s calendar for local community events, public meetings & other important dates lamontcounty.ca/eventscalendar

Next Regular Council Meeting: Tuesday, Oct. 28 (Org. Mtg.) | Next ASB meeting: Wednesday Oct. 8 | Meetings start at 9 a.m. in Council lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes (8:30 a.m.) | lamontcounty.ca/agendas-minutes-asb | Chambers (unless otherwise noted)

NOTE: inFocus can also be viewed online: lamontcounty.ca/communications (for a wanting to view larger posters or to access hyperlinks).

Community Programming

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