cowboy 2nd in Calgary Stampede - 3
strikes family - help needed - 10
Concrete dialogue needed - 4
Downpours drown out Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo
BY JOHN MATHER
All systems were go!
The Lamont Summer Sizzler rodeo organizers and volunteers checked out the grounds Friday afternoon. Everything was in pristine condition.
And then an evening storm blew through, dumping an inch of rain and saturating the grounds.
Organizers quickly moved to bring in some additional sand. The grounds were packed and by Saturday morning all systems were go.
But a Saturday afternoon downpour stopped everything in its tracks.
“It was disappointing for sure and we ended up having to cancel the event,” said Lisa Hardy, rodeo chair.
“We postponed it while the torrential downpour occurred, but combined with the rain we had received the night before the rodeo arena just wasn’t safe for the animals or the competitors.
“And that is always our priority as the organizer,” she added.
She said one to two inches of rain came down during the Saturday storm which while short lived, did cause a lot of damage.
The decision to cancel came following a meeting of the Rodeo committee, the contestants, and the stock contractors, Hardy added.
“We looked at the options and everyone agreed there was really no option but to cancel the event.”
Continued on Page 6
Mud... Mayhem... Madness. Not all heroes land on their feet, as noted by this bareback rider. All Photos by Crystal Moren. MORE PHOTOS ON PAGE 7
Cowboy Clearance; it is just a little shower.
Better bring your rubber boots - grounds after the storm.
GRAND OPENING
Peaceful Meadow Monuments owners Tom and Gail Hrehorets celebrated their grand opening in Lamont, on Friday. A ribbon cutting, blessing of the building, and a BBQ was enjoyed by family and friends, customers, council members and residents. Crystal Moren photo
BY MELISSA
MACINTOSH-YOUNG
Residents of Bruderheim are being reminded to tidy up their properties as the Town begins its annual unsightly yard inspections which began on Monday.
The inspections are
part of the Town’s ongoing efforts to maintain clean, safe and attractive neighbourhoods throughout the community.
According to a notice issued by the Town, inspections will focus on a variety of common property maintenance
concerns, including overgrown grass, fallen or damaged fences and the accumulation of unsightly items in yards.
Town officials say the program is intended to encourage property owners to keep their yards in good condition, helping preserve
Horseshoes for Hope exceeds goal, raises $1,105 for McDonald
BY MELISSA MACINTOSH- YOUNG
Follow up to a heartfelt fundraising campaign led by 10-year-old Kate Bork has exceeded its goal, raising $1,105 for the McDonald family of Lamont as their son, Julian, continues his fight against leukemia.
With help from her mother, Janin, who cleaned and spraypainted the horseshoes, Kate created unique designs that quickly captured the attention of supporters throughout the community.
After the fundraiser was shared on social
media, donations also came in from across Canada, the United States and even Germany. Kate reached and surpassed her original fundraising goal of $1,000 after selling her remaining horseshoes at the Lamont Farmers’ Market, bringing the final total to $1,105.
family
Kate Bork dropped off a cheque for the McDonald family for $1,105 raised through her Horseshoes for Hope campaign.
Bruderheim cracking down on unsightly yards
community pride while contributing to the overall appearance and safety of Bruderheim.
Residents who receive a notice following an inspection will be expected to address any identified concerns within the timeframe outlined by the Town.
Failure to comply with property maintenance requirements could result in further enforcement action under the Town’s bylaws.
The Town encourages homeowners to take the opportunity to mow lawns, remove debris
and ensure fences and other structures are in good repair as inspections begin.
Residents with questions about the inspection program or property maintenance requirements can contact the Bruderheim Town Office.
CALGARY STAMPEDE RUNNER UP
Mundare cowboy, 18-year-old Cooper McNiven, rides a bronc at the Calgary Stampede.
Mundare’s Cooper McNiven rides to 2nd in novice saddle bronc at Stampede
BY GRANT JOHNSON
Eighteen-year-old
Cooper McNiven is making a name for himself on one of rodeo’s biggest stages after finishing second in the novice saddle bronc division at the Calgary Stampede.
For the young rider, competing at the world-famous event was as thrilling as it was challenging.
“It was awesome, a really cool experience,” said McNiven. “It’s tough to not let the nerves get to you.”
Riding in front of a packed Stampede crowd marked one of the biggest moments of his career so far. It was a goal he had been working toward for more than a year.
“It’s probably one of the biggest stages I’ve ever rode in front of,” he said. “I had a goal to make it last year and fell short, but I came firing this year and made it.”
After his ride, McNiven said the atmosphere was unforgettable.
“Getting off after my ride, it was an electric feeling to hear the crowd cheering for you.”
McNiven began riding saddle bronc at just 15 years old, quickly committing himself to the sport. He trained at bronc riding schools in the southern United States, including the well-known Wright School, taking every opportunity he could to improve.
His dedication has already opened doors, earning him a full-ride scholarship to the University of Montana, where he will continue to develop his rodeo career.
Reflecting on his Stampede performance, McNiven kept it simple.
“I’m happy about the experience,” he said.
With a strong showing at the Calgary Stampede and a growing list of accomplishments, the Mundare rider is clearly one to watch in the years ahead.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Heavy Duty Mechanic / Apprentice Mechanic
Quest Disposal & Recycling Inc. is a locally owned and operated waste management company serving Vegreville and the surrounding area. We are currently seeking a motivated and dependable Heavy Duty Mechanic to join our Vegreville location.
The successful candidate will be responsible for diagnosing, troubleshooting, maintaining, and repairing a wide variety of trucks and heavy equipment in a fast-paced environment. We are also open to considering Apprentice Mechanics and Automotive Mechanics who possess strong mechanical aptitude, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. Training and mentorship will be provided.
Why join Quest? Year-round, stable employment, competitive wages, civerse and challenging work environment, supportive and team-oriented workplace, opportunities for training and career development.
Please submit your resume to: jen@questdisposal.ca
Concrete dialogue needed before Oct. 19 referendum
BY JOHN MATHER
Well we’re into the summer season and round one of the rodeo experience is done. The Calgary Stampede is over.
Next comes the exhibition in Edmonton. It used to be called K-Days, but to be honest, I have no idea what they call it anymore. It’s been through too many name changes.
But the premise remains the same.
Crowds gather so politicians will come out to promote their good intentions.
And this summer Stay in Canada or Separate Alberta will be at the front of the schedule.
Both sides have spent the past ten days in Calgary wooing the Stampede crowd.
But what are they saying?
There was a debate last week between Western Standard publisher Derek Fildebrandt and political scientist Duane Bratt. It was moderated by former provincial Tory MLA Donna Kennedy Glans.
Now I happen to know Donna, and I respect the opinions of both Bratt and Fildebrandt, so I watched the debate on You Tube with great interest.
But in many ways I found it was just more theatre than actual information on whether to stay in Canada or separate.
Both sides, Fildebrandt for the Separation side and Bratt for Stay in Canada groups, hauled out the cliches and lost leaders that are being promoted in many circles.
There is currently no plan for the structure of a future government; there is no plan for how to negotiate with the indigenous groups over Treaty issues, with the federal parks and military bases.
Immigration was brought up.
Well, no matter how the vote on October 19 goes, there will still be immigration to Alberta.
It is one of the ways of the world.
People have been immigrating or migrating to new lands based on food availability, climate or displacement due to warfare since man started walking the earth.
It won’t stop on Oct. 20.
The Stay in Canada groups are arguing there will be significant job losses in Alberta and the economy will go in the tank because that's what happened in Quebec.
CONTINUED
Both Bratt and Fildebrandt hit on this theme during their debate.
The Calgary Chamber of Commerce has said there will be job losses.
Yet, Economic Development Calgary, just last September reported, “CBRE’s new 2025 Scoring Tech Talent report ranked Calgary 17th overall among the continent’s top 50 markets, moving up three spots from last year. Between 2021 and 2024, Calgary’s tech workforce expanded by 61.1 per cent, adding 24,500 jobs to reach 64,600 workers.”
Calgary, it was further reported, is one of North America’s youngest large markets, with double-digit growth in residents in their 20s and 30s since 2018, and one of its most diverse tech hubs – 16 per cent of local tech workers are from under-represented groups and over 25 per cent are women.
And then last week, Premier Danielle Smith announced Meta has reached a deal to build a $13-billion data centre in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland in Sturgeon County, just north of Fort Saskatchewan.
Those facts seem to contradict the Chamber of Commerce’s doom and gloom outlook.
And then there’s the announcement of new pipelines penned by Premier Smith.
While fools (and yes I will use that term), such as the Alberta NDP and Labour leader Gil McGowan continue to call her a separatist (even though she is campaigning to remain in Canada), Smith has been working with Prime Minister Carney and Ontario Premier Doug Ford to attempt to strengthen our economic base by creating pipelines through Canada to Ontario, no longer dependent on Line five and nine, through Michigan.
And a pipeline to the west coast to open our energy exports to Asian markets.
And, by the way, expect McGowan to be
handing out his silly pamphlets at the Leg grounds tomorrow, July 16, when the Premier holds her annual Edmonton pancake breakfast. And I expect he’ll grab a full portion of breakfast as well.
But what worries me, and still no one is talking about, is the October 19 referendum question.
It is not to separate, but rather to open dialogue for the province to explore the possibilities of separation if the referendum passes with a majority vote.
My concern is the Liberal government, who have been known to outright lie to Canadians in the past, will rip those MOUs up as fast as they can if Albertans vote to explore separation.
But the pro-Canada side never says anything about negotiating and locking in a better deal for Alberta prior to Oct. 19.
This has to happen.
The Liberals and Carney don’t mention it. The smattering of Alberta Liberal MPs don’t talk about.
Our Conservative MPs are pretty mum on the topic. And the province isn’t really putting this discussion out in the open.
To me this is what the separation issue is all about.
Alberta wants a better deal!
Much like in the past when the “West wants In” was a rallying cry.
Nothing happened when Alberta asked for Senate reform. Alberta voted for elected Senators but they were never appointed. The will of the people was ignored by the Ottawa Liberals.
Alberta asked for some constitutional changes but that never happened.
Albertans are rightly frustrated and tired of being ignored
It is the major sticking point to this whole separation issue. But it seems no one wants to talk about it.
BY HAZEL ANAKA
The other day Roy and I attended a surprise birthday party for my sister. The idea was hatched by her daughter a couple months ago and wonder of wonder, not a whiff of it leaked out. It’s not often secrets are kept and surprises are genuine so it was fun to see it unfold. Naturally, there had to be an explanation of this elaborate plan to Sherry. This led to a prolonged dissection of who knew what when. Who suggested the guest list? Who almost blew the surprise? How did the granddaughters not spill the beans?
The guest list included four school classmates and spouses plus a few relatives. Even though there was an age spread of several years among the group, when you grow up in a small community and attend a small school, everyone essentially knows everyone else, both younger and older
FROM WHERE I SIT: Time Spent Together
than themselves. It was honestly so much fun. Everyone in the group seems to have come to terms with their ages and infirmities. I never actually counted the number of knee and hip replacements in the crowd but should have.
The cover of the card we gave her included the image of a walker with “Hip Hip Hip Replacement” as the front sentiment. I consulted a friend on how she treats her sciatica and we gushed over how much we love our local pharmacist so Asif if your ears were burning on Saturday afternoon, now you know why.
The noise level in this new home was at times uncomfortable. Some of it could be chalked up to lack of sound absorbing materials. The larger issue was the number of hard-ofhearing guests talking too loudly and repeating things too many times. But really, can the sound of people laughing ever be truly too loud?
It became a running joke as one person after another shared the names of people who’ve recently died. Not that death is funny but that it takes real effort and some intel to keep track of who’s
gone. I took it as a sign of well-adjusted, pragmatic people who accept that there’s no getting out of here alive.
Teachers and school memories are always hot topics when old timers get together and Saturday was no exception. I find it funny that it often takes two or three or more people contributing a fuzzy tidbit to recreate a story with the right names, time frames, and details. Remembering all those elementary teachers’ names in the right order was just such a
brain teaser.
Old muscle cars, flooded out crops, a wet summer, mosquitoes, long ago parties at our childhood farm, weddings, funerals, landscaping and deck plans, summer camps, kids and grandkids were some of the overheard conversations. There were one-on-one conversations and many that included the entire crowd.
The meal was a summer BBQ type menu with potluck contributions from some of us. Naturally, we stayed inside because there were
several downpours we could only shake our heads at in dismay.
Before too long, people began the lingering goodbye process. You know, when one spouse looks at the other and says we should get going. When someone starts the process, other couples usually follow soon after. It was a bit comical because it was still broad daylight; but you know how old people hate driving after dark. I’m sure no one had anything pressing to hurry home to but clearly the stamina and staying power of our
youth evaporated years ago. I’m glad we were invited, glad we attended, and glad that Sherry got her day. Usually, she’s the one spearheading get-togethers. This time she got to be the guest of honour; though how she got roped into making a pot of nachinka I'm not sure.
Real people who are comfortable in their own skins and who can laugh at their current age and stage of health are a treat. The lesson to enjoy each other’s company and time spent together was not lost on me, from where I sit.
From the files of the Lamont Leader
From the April 19, 2016 issue of the Lamont Leader: Each month the Lamont Red Hatters celebrate the birthdays of members. February birthdays of 2016 included (l to r) Pearl Letwin, Eileen Letwin, Andrea Varga, and Christine Wright. Photo taken while celebrating at the Highway 45 Restaurant in Bruderheim.
Continued from Front
“And unfortunately, the rules for the Lakeland Rodeo Association stipulate that if you cancel one day you have to cancel the whole thing which is why there was no performance on Sunday.”
She added the same issue happened with the Combine Crunch, run separately but in conjunction, with the Summer Sizzler rodeo.
“The field was just too muddy and it wouldn’t have been too entertaining watching the combines drive in and get stuck.”
Hardy said anyone who had purchased tickets for the Sunday event would be getting refunds but those who purchased tickets for Saturday would not because the ticket was all inclusive for the kids fun zone, the kids rodeo and the fact the saddle bronc round was finished before the event was cancelled.
Hardy added the steak dinner and dance featuring B.C.s Hillside Outlaws both continued and were very well attended.
“It got really crowded in the barns when the rain came because people either came there or made their way to their vehicles to wait it out,” she said.
She estimated about 200 attended the steak dinner and the band for the dance did an awesome job entertaining the crowd.
She said attendance at the gate was very good but she didn’t have final attendance figures.
“The Kids Zone sponsored by Richardson Pioneer was very busy throughout the morning,” Hardy added, with pony rides, a petting zoo, facepainting, and the Fish and Game Association hosting their birdhouse building booth.
The Kids Rodeo, sponsored by Wolf Midstream also was completed, although Hardy adds the 40 kids who competed in rop-
15, 2026
ing, and other stations and then 25 kids who took part in the mutton busting didn't come out clean.
“The kids looked like they had fun but they were sure muddy when they were done,” chuckled Hardy. “It was pretty entertaining.”
Hardy said Trevor Schinkinger Trucking provided great help to the organizers, not only hauling in dirt for the arena, but by being available to pull both competitors’ heavy trucks and spectators who may have been stuck in the rodeo parking areas.
In addition, DDC provided some heavy equipment to help haul the heavy contestant rigs from the saturated rodeo grounds.
She added organizers had already cancelled the trick riding from the event because of the potential danger even before the main rodeo began.
Hardy said the rodeo had been cancelled during COVID, but she wasn’t sure if it had
ever been rained out.
She did say one of the judges said he had been in many rodeos but had never seen the rain come down like it did on Saturday.
Plans are moving ahead to re-schedule the Combine Crunch and organizers are planning on what that could look like as a stand alone event.
“We’re just trying to find a date that works for both the contestants and the volunteers right now,” Hardy said.
The rodeo itself may also be scheduled and that conversation has started among the board.
“The rodeo is far more complex,” she said. “We’ve looked at what dates might be available even if it were to become a one day event.”
Hardy added even though organizers had tried a variety of social media platforms and other ways to get the
message out that the rodeo was cancelled for Sunday, many people still showed up at the gates only to be turned away.
She added the volunteers working for the rodeo committee did an outstanding job during terrible conditions.
Local branches celebrate the Legion’s centennial
BY GRANT JOHNSON
Legion branches across Canada are celebrating a major milestone in 2026 as the Royal Canadian Legion marks its 100th anniversary.
Founded in 1926, the Legion has played a vital role in supporting veterans, their families, and communities nationwide. To commemorate the centennial, branches are hosting events and sharing their history, bringing communities together to recognize a century of service.
Meanwhile, the Smoky Lake Legion will host an open house on Friday, July 17 from 2 to 4 p.m.
As part of the centennial celebrations, the Royal Canadian Legion is also offering free memberships for new members who join in 2026.
Local branches encourage anyone interested to take advantage of the opportunity and learn more about the organization’s work.
In Vegreville, the Legion branch is planning a Celebration Gala on Friday, July 17. The event will highlight the organization’s longstanding contributions while offering an opportunity for members and residents to gather and celebrate the milestone.
Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo weekend
Crystal Moren photos
When the muddy arena fights back; horse and bareback rider down. Mutton Buster loves Mudd’n Busting.
No grip, no mercy.
Tie Down Roping.
Wild ride, dirty ending.
Ladies Breakaway Roping; Her aim is true.
Pickup Men lead out the last saddle bronc; Ironically named "Think It Over"
Mutton Bustin "Mud Bustin"
jULY 17-19, 2026
HARDISTY, ALBERTA
stock contractor - duffy rodeo
ADMISSION
Weekend Pass - $50
Friday - $10
Saturday - $20
Sunday - $20
12 & Under - Free
Power Camping - $60
GATE OPENS
THURS AT 12 PM
NO DOGS ON THE GROUNDS
Wild Pony Race &
Mutton Busting -
Enter Weekend of at the Rodeo Office
Wild Horse Racing
Bareback
Novice Bronc
Tiedown Roping
Junior Steer Riding
Ladies Breakaway
WEEKEND LINEUP
FRIDAY, JULY 17
• Pancake Breakfast 7:00-10:00 AM
• Street Fair 10:00 AM-3:00 PM
• Slack 5:00 PM
• Chariots & Wagons to Follow
• Wheelbarrow Races 9:00 PM
• Beer Gardens Dance 9:00 PM-2:00 AM
SATURDAY, JULY 18
• Parade 10:30 AM
• Rodeo 1:00 PM
• Chariots & Wagons to Follow
• Beer Gardens Dance 9:00 PM-2:00 AM NO MINORS NO MINORS
SUNDAY, JULY 19
NEW TIMES
• Rodeo 12:00 PM
• Chucks & Chariots to Follow
• Combine Crunch Approx. After the Wagons
RODEO EVENTS
Steer Wrestling
Wild Pony Racing
Mutton Bustin'
Wild Cow Milking
Ladies Barrel Racing
Junior Barrel Racing
Saddle Bronc
Team Roping
Bull Riding
Chariots
Chuck Wagons
Combine Crunch
This may not be the order of events
Due to limited space on the poster, all sponsors will be recognized in the rodeo program and announced throughout rodeo weekend.
Thank you for your support and sponsorship.
For any questions or Wild Cow and Wild Horse racing entries contact Camillia at 780-888-5458
For Combine Crunch questions contact Alvin at 780-806-1258
For Rainout contact Clayton at 780-888-1441
SATURDAY, JULY 25
•BEER
Hogstead Welding
Infield Sponsors
840 CFCW Ward TireCraft Field Harvesting & Transport
Bruce Shell
Stockyards Veterinary
Community rallies behind O’Connell family following serious accident
BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG
The Bruderheim community is once again showing the power of neighbours helping neighbours as support continues to grow for the O’Connell family following a devastating accident that has left husband and father Karl O’Connell with life-altering burn injuries.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist Karl, his wife Kennedy, and their five children as they navigate the months ahead.
According to the fundraiser, Karl was seriously injured in an accident at the family’s home on Thursday evening.
Bruderheim Fire Services were the first to respond, and due to the severity of his injuries, STARS Air Ambulance transported him to the University of Alberta Hospital, where he is receiving
specialized treatment in the burn unit.
Doctors expect Karl’s recovery to be a lengthy one. While some of his injuries are anticipated to heal over the coming weeks, severe burns to his legs will require extensive treatment, including skin graft surgery. He is expected to remain hospitalized for an extended period while his medical team determines the best course of treatment.
Karl, a heavy-duty equipment operator in his 30s, has always worked hard to provide for his family. Although disability benefits and other supports are being arranged, the family is already facing significant financial challenges as Karl is unable to work.
Kennedy has remained by her husband’s side while also caring for their five children and managing the responsibilities of everyday family life.
Funds raised through
Meta data centre coming to Industrial Heartland
BY GRANT JOHNSON
A massive new investment is coming to Alberta, as Meta has announced plans to build its first Canadian data centre just north of Edmonton in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland.
The $13 billion onegigawatt project will be located in Sturgeon County and is expected to create more than 3,000 construction jobs during the build.
Once operational, the facility is projected to generate approximately $250 million annually in economic benefits for Albertans.
Premier Danielle Smith welcomed the announcement, saying Alberta has created the right conditions to attract major global investments. She added that projects like this position the province to become a leader in artificial intelligence development in Canada.
An AI data centre is a
the GoFundMe campaign will help cover household expenses while Karl recovers, travel and fuel costs, hospital parking, meals during long days at the hospital, school-related expenses, and the cost of bringing Karl’s mother from Nova Scotia to Alberta to support the family during this difficult time.
As of Monday morning, the fundraiser had raised $2,125 toward its $12,000 goal.
Organizers say every donation, message of encouragement, and prayer helps remind the O’Connell family that they are surrounded by a caring community as Karl begins the long journey toward healing and recovery.
large-scale facility that houses powerful computer systems used to process and store massive amounts of data.
These centres support technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and machine learning by running complex calculations and managing digital services used by businesses and individuals every day.
As part of the project, Meta says it will fully fund new electricity generation and grid infrastructure required to support the data centre.
The company notes that these upgrades are expected to improve overall reliability of the power grid in the region.
Construction timelines have not yet been finalized, but the announcement marks one of the largest tech investments in Alberta’s history.
Bruderheim’s O’Connell family: (Children L to R) Landen, Raiden, Liam, Chloe, and Carter with parents Karl and Kennedy.
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers 16,000 readers
COMING EVENTS
Don't miss "Those Folk"
Australian folk duo
Sunday, July 26 at 7 PM
St Andrews Lougheed Alongside "Moranz and Fremlin" Alberta/BC based Bluegrass duo $25 tickets at the door
An unforgettable night of music!
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SASKATOONS U-PICK
Kalf's Berry Farm
Open 8 - 8 Daily
$10.00 per gallon pail 15217 - Township Road 492 (Holden) 780-893-5490 Call or text
Alliance United Church Women's Annual Rummage/Garage Sale
July 16 - 5-8 pm, July 17 - 10am-8 pm July 18 - 10am-2.pm United Church Basement, Alliance, Alberta.
Emerald VBS is coming to Killam Baptist Church, August 10-14 from 9AM-11:45AM
Children ages 5-12 years are invited to join us for bible stories, crafts, games, snacks and singing. To register call 780-385-3607
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The Funeral Mass for Pres Winter will take place on August 1, at 11am at Holy Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Viking. If you wish to make a donation in Pres’ memory please consider local Viking organizations.
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A Celebration of Life for Daniel Zimmer will be held Friday, July 17 at the Strome Community Hall. Come and go, from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Please join us for a time of remembering, sharing memories, and fellowship.
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COMING EVENTS
103rd Annual Lougheed Fair
Saturday, August 8
Pancake Breakfast 8-10am Parade 10:30am
Slow Pitch / Ladies Fastball Museum Open All Day
Market Vendors & Activities
Entertainment for Kids
Bench Exhibits til 4pm
Cattle Show / Horse Show Meals, Snacks, Beer Gardens Roast Beef Supper at Community Hall 5-7pm Plus Annual Show ‘N Shine 1-4pm by the Arena Multiple trophies.
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WANT PEOPLE TO SHOW UP? REMEMBER TO ADVERTISE. IN YOUR LOCAL PAPER!
Village Picnic August 23rd
Holden Community Hall
Potluck at noon
Musical performances by the Western Thistles and Jed and the Valentine
Check them out on youtube and you will be impressed Tickets $20 including fees on villagepicnic.com
Read the book Fartknocker! Dunbar goes to Vegreville by BM Kalf available on amazon
You can book Blanket Classified Ads and Value Ads through your local paper! Appear in over 65 different newspapers and over 300,000 homes in Alberta. Prices $299 to $699. Contact Caribou Publishing today!
FOR RENT
Large One Bedroom Suites in KILLAM. Clean and Quiet Building. Excellent Area. Available August 1st. Email: management.parkviewmanor @gmail.com Phone: 403-605-5180
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For Rent in Killam
Half duplex - 3 bedroom, 1 bath. Laundry hookups in basement. Tenant pays all utilities. Available August 1. Rent $700/month. Call 780-226-8598. 27tfnc
FOR SALE
2000 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 (2nd Gen) 5.2litre Magnum V8 (318). Regular Cab. Mileage at 270,717. Black with grey interior. 8 foot box with matching canopy (lockable, with keys). New tires all the way around and new spare tire. Recently installed new water pump, newer battery, heater core, and A/C evaporator core replaced a few years ago. Like-new interior. AM/FM CD player, factory radio. New fog lights (uninstalled) thrown in. Some passenger side damage to windshield, AC has a slow leak. Minimal rust; dent in rear passenger-side bed panel. Asking $5,000 OBO, will entertain offers. Vehicle sold as iswhere is. Located in Killam, call or text for viewing 780-385-1251.
FORAGE SEED FOR SALE:
Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Free Delivery! Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.
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Brian has some potted Raspberry suckers available, free, but must be picked up at the farm. Also, U-Pick for raspberries, before August. New Customers Welcome. No limit on picking, prices are: $15 for 1 gallon pail; $5 for a half-pail; and $20 for everbearing full gallon; $5 half-pail. No drop-ins, must register before picking. Bring own pails and bring mosquito repellant (Muskol preferred). Call 780-678-0053 for a time and day. Brian's is located six miles west of Daysland off Highway 13, then North on Range Road 172 one and a quarter miles. East side of road, blue sign #45529172. ———————————————
WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 300. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. Quality guaranteed. albertasprucetrees.com.
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For $10 extra dollars per week, add a picture, logo, or graphic!
FOR SALE
LINO TYPE FONT SETS for sale. Several full sets of fonts available. Contact amanda@claresholmlocalpress.ca for more information.
HELP WANTED
WE ARE HIRING!
Dill’s Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is looking for a Journeyman Plumber Must reliably commute to or reside in Sedgewick, AB Please submit a resume to dillsplumbingandheating @gmail.com or call 780-384-3535 for more information
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JP's Country Daycare located in Daysland is hiring for a Level 2 ECE to join our daycare. This is currently a part time position. This position requires the dedication and experience of someone who has worked with children. Working with another Level 1 ECE in the room, but also working independently when ratio allows. This position requires taking the lead role working with 19 months - 3 year olds. Hours are 8:30am - 5:30pmW, Th, F weekly with the opportunity to pick up more shifts. Please email: jpcountrydaycare@gmail.com with your resume. This position will be open till a suitable candidate is hired.
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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!
Murray Cholowsky Flagstaff Taping & Texturing Call or text at 780-385-1251
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
Thrift Store built on compassion and community
BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG
For Somy Thomas, opening the Bruderheim Community Thrift Store was never about selling secondhand items. It was about creating a place where neighbours could help neighbours and where everyone, regardless of their financial situation, could find what they needed with dignity.
Thomas moved to Bruderheim from Ontario in 2016 after her son accepted a position with Edmonton Corrections. After spending 26 years working in Dubai, she was ready for a quieter life and wanted to give back to the community she now calls home.
Having previously volunteered with seniors at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, Thomas has always had
a passion for helping others, particularly older adults. Before opening the store in 2024, she conducted a market study and discovered there was a clear need for a thrift store in the area.
The result was the Bruderheim Community Thrift Store, built around a unique philosophy: customers take what they need and pay what they can.
“There is a real need in the area,” Thomas said. “I believe in people helping people. That is how I live my life.”
Unlike most thrift stores, the shop initially operated without price tags, allowing shoppers to contribute whatever they felt they could afford. While the concept has been embraced by many, Thomas said she has decided to introduce a simple pricing
guide, largely because a small number of people began taking advantage of the honour-based system. She hopes the change will help ensure the store can continue serving those who genuinely need assistance while remaining fair to everyone.
The store has become much more than a place to shop. Over the years, Thomas has developed close friendships with many local seniors and regularly provides donated items to seniors in both Bruderheim and Lamont.
Her generosity extends beyond the walls of the thrift store. Any extra monetary donations collected throughout the year are donated through her church to help individuals and families facing difficult circumstances. Thomas’s guiding philosophy is simple. “Small drops make an ocean,” she said.
Today, the Bruderheim Community Thrift Store continues to provide affordable clothing, household goods and other essentials while fostering a spirit of kindness and generosity that Thomas hopes will continue to grow throughout the community.
STARS responds to Bruderheim emergency
BY MELISSA
MACINTOSH-YOUNG
Residents of Bruderheim witnessed the unmistakable sight and sound of a STARS Air Ambulance helicopter landing at the elementary school on Thursday evening as emergency crews responded to a medical incident.
The helicopter touched down on the school’s athletic field, where local first re-
sponders had secured a safe landing zone. Firefighters and EMS personnel were on scene to assist the STARS medical crew before the patient was transferred to the aircraft for transport to hospital.
The dramatic arrival of the helicopter drew the attention of nearby residents, many of whom paused to watch the highly coordinated response.
STARS helicopters
BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG
Crowds lined the streets of Lamont Saturday morning as the annual Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo Parade officially kicked off a weekend of community celebrations.
The parade featured colourful floats, horseback riders, decorated vehicles, local businesses and community organizations, with children eagerly collecting plenty of candy along the parade route.
Following the parade, attendees enjoyed a filling pancake breakfast before taking in the day’s Summer Sizzler activities.
pointment, the annual steak supper and live band went ahead as planned, with residents and visitors gathering to enjoy an evening of great food, music and community fellowship.
There has been no word yet, if the Rodeo events will be rescheduled at a later date.
While the weather forced changes to the weekend’s schedule, the parade, pancake breakfast, steak supper and live entertainment ensured the Summer Sizzler remained a celebration of Lamont’s community spirit and western tradition.
are dispatched to some of Alberta’s most critical medical emergencies.
While details surrounding the patient’s condition have not been released out of respect for privacy, the response highlights the vital role STARS plays in supporting rural communities such as Bruderheim, where access to specialized emergency care can require air transport.
Unfortunately, the weekend’s Rodeo events and the popular Columbine Crunch, were cancelled after thunderstorms and heavy rainfall left the rodeo grounds too wet and unsafe for competition.
Despite the disap-
Bruderheim Community Thrift Store owner, Somy Thomas. Photo by Melissa MacIntosh-Young
STARS and EMS in Bruderheim, Thursday. Melissa MacIntosh-Young photo.
Lamont dancers compete in Dance World Cup at Dublin
BY MELISSA
MACINTOSH-YOUNG
Autumn Hopkins and Shaye Walters, who both train at Xpressions Dance in Bruderheim, proudly represented Team Canada at one of the world’s largest and most prestigious dance competitions.
Competing against talented dancers from around the globe, the pair delivered impressive performances across multiple disciplines.
Their biggest achievement came as members of Team Canada’s jazz showstopper group, which captured the bronze medal with a thirdplace finish. The performance earned Canada its fourth medal of the competition, marking a significant accomplishment on the international stage.
When asked what the best thing about the experience was, Autumn said “My favourite thing about our trip to Ireland was trading pins with 60 different counties. I got to meet dancers from all over the world, including dancing with girls from all across Canada. I just love dancing so much.
“I made so many new friends and I feel so blessed that I was given such an amazing opportunity. I’m also so grateful for my dance teachers at Xpressions
and the encouragement they kept giving me over FaceTime even though I’m across the world. So, we dance with “world performers” at the “Dance World Cup” which is the second biggest event after Olympics. There are 60 counties here!”
Shaye replied, “My favourite thing was getting to meet dancers from all over the world, while performing in Dublin on a world stage.”
Both dancers also earned Top 10 finishes in their solo events.
Shaye Walters placed 10th in the Acro category, while Autumn Hopkins finished 10th in Hip Hop, showcasing their versatility and dedication in highly competitive fields.
Representing Canada at the Dance World Cup is an achievement in itself, requiring months of training, commitment and qualification.
For Autumn and Shaye, their success reflects not only their hard work, but also the strength of the dance program at Xpressions Dance Studio.
Racquel Strickland is an instructor at Xpressions Dance Studio, “Xpressions is incredibly proud that four of our dancers were invited to perform in Ireland this year. Their dedication, hard work, and leadership both in and out of the studio make them outstanding ambassadors for our team.
“Shaye and Autumn, who attended, represented Xpressions with excellence, and we couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishments.”
Their accomplishments have made their families, coaches and the Lamont community proud, proving that small-town talent can compete with the very best in the world
MINBURN COUNTY
• W4-14-51-10-SW County of Minburn 158.97 acres with 1500 sq ft bungalow, a 50’ by 140’ half heated shop and second yard with house. # 2 soil with 100 acres cultivated and 35 cultivatable acres in hay. Second yard rented for $1,000 per month. Price: $2,300,000
LAMONT COUNTY
• W4-19-54-26-NW 191073 TWP RD 545 Lamont County 158.9 acres with 140± cultivated and 10± grass with a 1960 3 bedroom 1 bath bungalow with 40’x 80’ pole shed. Price: $850,000
• W4-19-57-15-NW East Half Lamont County 78.01 acres with 45 acres ± in hay. Nice building site. Price: $265,000
• SOLD W4-19-53-12 NW North ½, W4-19-53-12 NW South ½ Lamont County 136 acres with a house and shop Price: 1,500,000
Lamont’s own, Shaye Walters and Autumn Hopkins proudly show their bronze medals.
