Zustreech Ukrainian Society hosts Mundare barbecue to raise money for Ukraine’s war effort
LANDON ZABEL
The Zustreech Ukrainian Society and members of the Sich Kolomea Orthodox Church held on Saturday, July 27 their second fundraiser barbecue, since the onset of the Russian invasion, in the Ukraina Park in Mundare with the intention of raising money for the war effort in Ukraine.
The event saw approximately 120 tickets sold, a decrease from last year’s 175, but regardless Mundare’s Ukraina Park was overflowing with conversation and gratitude.
The tickets, costing $50, are to be considered a donation to the Zustreech Ukrainian Society, who use the money to purchase and ship much-needed goods to the Ukrainian army.
Bohdan, a Ukrainian man who had immigrated to Canada long before the war broke out, and a member of the Zustreech Ukrainian Society, says that every weekend he, through the help of the society, sends 200 pounds worth of essential goods to Ukraine.
“Medical equipment such as tourniquets and blood stoppers, running shoes, backpacks, coffee, and canned goods,” Bohdan had explained the sorts of goods he meticulously packs into plastic bins and ships off to his home country.
“These supplies save lives,” he emphasised, as Bohdan had personally been to the frontlines, he knows very well that the men fighting for their country need more than the ammunition and weapons that many governments have been sending.
The Zustreech Ukrainian Society informed the Leader that they have shipped 12 tonnes of equipment to date, a figure that they ensured will only grow until the fighting ceases. The
shipping of these goods comes at a cost, as the Society estimates that they have spent nearly $400,000 to date on their mission.
The cost of their business necessitates fundraising events such as this yearly, as long as the war continues, –and if you could not make it, the Zustreech Ukrainian Society has an etransfer that anyone who wishes to donate to the cause is encouraged to utilise: Zustreech@Gmail.com
Bohdan himself works tirelessly to find ways to raise money; whether that be from the donation box he displays at farmers markets, or as Charlie Gargus recalled Bohdan labouring in the former mayor’s yard– only to refuse payment “make a donation to the army,” he requested.
The event was attended by families who escaped the war and found a new home here in Alberta.
Olena Adamchuk, a refugee and mother, told the Leader that “Vegreville is a very friendly community, the children love their teachers and the other children they met at school.”
Olena expressed her gratitude to be
able to make her family a home somewhere she knows her children will be safe – the mother was pregnant and two days away from her due date.
Olena’s young daughter who had bows of blue and yellow displayed proudly atop her hair was asked to share what her favourite part of her new home was, a question she answered simply – “playing.”
Ulyana Kipran, another Ukrainian mother who had fled the war, wishes to thank the Vegreville community for accepting her and her sons and providing the young family with a home.
“They hosted us with traditional Ukrainian food to help us feel at home. They helped with documentation, driving, healthcare, groceries, everything has been first class.” The mother also wished to express her gratitude for the teachers here who ensured her sons Valerly and Oleksiy received extra attention as they studied English.
The event was not only attended by the families who fled the war, but by the people who helped them settle here.
Sonia Shalewa, a member of the
Zustreech Ukrainian Society, and wife to John Shalewa, explained how her husband was the President of the Ukrainian Canadian Social Services in Edmonton at the outbreak of the war. Her husband’s small organization of two office staff and however many volunteers they could get their hands on, managed to play a role in the settling of 4,000 refugee families.
The Shalewa family were not the only attendees who were involved in settling the thousands of Ukrainian refugees that Alberta took in. Helen Tymoczko, a lawyer, who volunteered her time to serve as a notary for the steady flow of Ukrainians fleeing the war; greatly assisting folks who had greater worries than paperwork. Helen says “Everywhere I go I try to find the Ukrainians.”
It is not only native Albertans who have been working tirelessly to help bring those affected by the war to safety. Violetta-Viktoriia, a Ukrainian who fled the war in 2022 to settle in Alberta, turned her efforts towards helping her compatriots to safety. Through the Catholic Social Services organisation, which employs Violetta-Viktoriia as a Settlement Counsellor, the newcomer has spent her time trying to help others find a new life in Canada – just as she has.
Ross Demkiw, also present at the barbecue, was a member of the Canadian Embassy in Ukraine during the outbreak of the war. He recalled how his wife and daughter were evacuated back to Canada and how every Monday, like clockwork, Russian missiles would leave craters throughout the country.
Continued on Page 2
The Adamchuk family, with pregnant Olena on the far right just days away from her due date. Landon Zabel photo.
Ross expressed his support for the Zustreech Ukrainian Society’s mission, “It's good because people need to be reminded about the war now that it is not in the news.”
The Ukraina Park’s dining hall had been filled with remarkable people, all with stories worth sharing; some sang along to the music performed in Ukrainian, while others adorned tattoos of traditional Ukrainian embroidery, all of those who attended easily managed to find good company.
Folks selflessly helped to ensure the event was a success; Peggy Lobay and Vicky Chilibecki ensured that every table had a bouquet displayed on it, each created with the demeanour of a perfectionist, a dill flower proudly arranged in each. When folks began filling the once-empty space the ladies turned to the kitchen, continuously busy, to help pre-
pare the meal – one which left all patrons satisfied.
Everything done in preparation for the event was done with care; as children speaking Ukrainian between their bouts of laughter helped anywhere they could.
These children, who now call Alberta their home, fill our churches as Ray recalled “newcomers in the past two years we have invited to our church, and now we have six new families that attend regularly – it is so nice to hear the children in church and see them running around the church grounds.”
The same children who later in the evening congregated on the park's sports bleachers, which had been painted in the blue and yellow of the Ukrainian flag, reminding the children of the sprawling fields and vast skies of their home country – not too different from our own.
VIKING, ALBERTA VIKING, ALBERTA
Opinion
Hapless Harris a ho-hum, hopeless choice for Democrats
BY JOHN MATHER
So CNN and other mainstream news outlets in the U.S, finally got their way.
They forced the democratic machine to turf Sleepy Joe Biden from the U.S. presidential race and instead plopped his vice president Kamala Harris into the spotlight of carrying the Democratic presidential torch against Republican nominee Donald Trump.
But once again, they have two candidates who are not really good to run a country of 300 million people and be one of the leaders of the world.
Trump is a petty criminal, a liar, and a bombastic individual who often doesn’t curb his tongue before it escapes for a romp.
In Harris the Democrats have a well-trained lawyer, who has risen through the political ranks from a prosecutor in the San Francisco area, to the attorney general of California, to U.S. Senator, to failed presidential candidate against Biden... and then on to vice president.
While she has practical experience in prosecuting some criminals, and there’s much debate on how well she did that job, she has no military or business background.
A president to perform on the world stage needs these things.
Biden hasn’t fared well in this regard.
His failure to produce a good debate against Trump, which he wanted held early to boost his chances, failed miserably leading to his downfall.
But now Harris is the darling of CNN, the pro Democratic news outlet.
The talking heads who were trashing Biden just days ago, and giving grudging admiration to Trump’s performance, especially after the failed assassination attempt against him, are now fawning all over Harris.
“Oh Kamala, she’s so smart,” they gush.
“She’s so young, pretty and well spoken,” they enthuse.
But as one Republican said the other day, she was a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion appointment to Biden’s VP.
In early primaries leading up to the Democratic nomination in 2019, she was absolutely trashed in a debate by then Congressperson Tulsi Gabbard.
Gabbard was subsequently blackballed by none other than Hilary Clinton, and she wasn’t allowed to take part in any more Democratic Party debates.
CONTINUED
But Harris quickly dropped out of the presidential race and was lost in the face of the public.
Until Biden decided to have her as his running mate.
Now Trump is no real winner.
He is now the old guy, but at least his mind is still intact from what I can tell.
He’s picked a young Ohio senator J.D, Vance as his running mate. A strong team, with Trump being prepared to hand off the Republican reins to a 40-year-old in four years or earlier if he loses the presidential race.
Harris has spent a lot of time cheerleading unions and sorority houses as she seeks votes, while Trump has been criticized widely for saying, “fight, fight, fight” after he was shot. No one is saying squat as Harris says “when we’re angry we fight, when we fight we win.”
So both sides want to fight.
Harris says “(As women) we can move mountains.”
Well so can earthquakes and volcanoes and when that happens they are called natural disasters. And I do think Harris will be a natural disaster for the Democrats.
She has nothing but some political smarts. No business sense and no military
sense - which are the two main ingredients that made America.
Trump, like him or not, is a smart businessman. He inherited a development company from his father and built it into a multi billion dollar empire and redesigned the skyline of New York City in the process. He has had companies fail. He knows how; to quote the late Brian Mulroney “when to fish or cut bait.”
When he was president, the U.S. economy did move forward. Unfortunately, he had a finger that liked twitter and a tongue that likes to romp to his detriment.
But on the world stage if I was a dictator or even a narcissistic prime minister I would be more afraid of dealing with Trump than Harris.
Harris has no world presence. She bungled the U.S. southern border crisis. She, as much as Biden, is responsible for the tear down of the fabric of American society.
Right now there’s a pretty bloom on the Democrats. But after a debate or two, I wonder how long it will last.
The U.S, is a mess, but Harris won’t do anything to get the country out of that mess, but she will enable increasing crises in the middle east, Russia/Ukraine and in the turf war set to be waged in the South China sea.
Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter Jana Semeniuk Reporter Crystal Moren
BY HAZEL ANAKA
This week I’ll cover a couple of big mysteries so let’s get to it.
I have no idea what is going on in my little garden beds. The strawberry yield so far has been so poor that I think the cost per berry is about a dollar each. Last year they were great. Because I use only raised beds, they are essentially annuals that I replace every year. In ground, they would survive the winter and presumably spread and flourish and turn into a wonderful patch.
The cucumbers really caught this year and kind of overgrew their space. During one of those vicious windstorms, a 30-inch section of vine broke off and with it any promise of cucs. So far, the yield has been pathetic. Nothing quite beats the taste of a garden plucked cucumber but unless they buckle down and start pro-
FROM WHERE I SIT: Big questions continue
ducing, they won’t be making a return appearance next year. But most shocking of all are the peas. They germinated perfectly and grew like weeds; full, lush, green. Pods formed and are full but only about an inch long. What the hell? I haven’t eaten even one because it’s not worth the effort. And now they’re too old. Since their growing season is quite short, I thought I’d yank them up and reseed another variety but perhaps the clock is running out on that brainwave.
My tomatoes are fine. In case, you’re wonder-
ing why, I have a theory. For dietary reasons, I shouldn’t be eating tomatoes or other acidic foods so naturally they’re producing like crazy. It’s Murphy’s Law of Gardening I suppose. Of course, I can’t eat dairy either because of milk proteins so the bocconcini is also a no-no. Say goodbye to caprese salad. I euthanized my 10” indoor pot of basil. It was always wilting and taking up a lot of countertop real estate. What good is basil without tomatoes? Or bocconcini?
And who ever heard of not being able to grow
lettuce? Any day now, a leaf may be big enough to cover a slice of bread. I planted two different varieties and the leaves are the size of the micro greens you sometimes get in salads served by fancy restaurants.
So, while we’ve all been complaining loud and long about grocery store prices, for me, it’s increasingly looking like growing our own food--even for seasonal fresh eating alone---is also a losing proposition. Augmenting the soil costs money. Greenhouse plants and seed packets are expensive. Well water is free but the
labour of watering the beds costs precious time.
And in reality, a garden yield is as weatherdependent as a farmer’s field crops.
In a complete 180, can we talk about forgetting in general, or perhaps more specifically misplacing things? Because I/we have a lot of interests and all the bits and pieces that go with them, keeping track of all those individual items takes on a life of its own. Not having, at my fingertips, those things I need for my projects and my videos, is doubly annoying. It got so bad I actually made a Hazel’s Lost
From the files of The Lamont Leader
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list. It included items like a gross of drink parasols, a sadiron, vintage butter wrappers, and more. I can’t even tell you what else was on the list because I’ve misplaced the damn list. And can’t remember its contents. By the way, literally months later I found both the parasols and sadiron.
I realize that having a lot is a first world problem. If my entire life fit into a shopping cart and a back pack, it wouldn’t be an issue. Having many things is a privilege and I know I’m blessed. But losing things is frustrating and a huge waste of precious time. That’s why I continue to sort, organize, purge, donate, and sell. Oh, and look for things. It’s amazing what I find during these treasure hunts. Not what I’m looking for, mind you, but other stuff I forgot I had.
So, I will continue to search for those missing culprits and continue to set systems in place to make that less necessary, less often. And, I’ll rethink planting any veggies next year. In the meantime, these big questions continue, from where I sit.
January 19, 2010 edition of The Lamont Leader: Theresa Wells-Taylor wore her Olympic uniform to school last Friday and brought in the torch for students to look at in person. The Winter Olympic torchbearer ran along Highway 37 cheered on by locals. Centre: Cevat Alisiroglu, Town of Lamont Development Officer (left), and CAO Tom Miller wave the Town of Lamont flag to cheer on Wells Taylor.
6 - The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, August 7, 2024
Lamont wrestles with fire billing policy during committee session
BY JOHN MATHER
During the Lamont County Committee of the Whole sessions, July 9, fire billing queries were discussed by council.
Chief Administrative Officer Peter Tarnawsky said there had been inquiries initiated by Division two Councillor Aaron Wick.
He said that doing some research, administration had discovered that almost no two jurisdictions administered fire billings the same way.
“Some are entirely taxbased and some are entirely fee-based,” he said.
He then let Lamont Regional Fire Chief Bo Moore lead the discussion.
Council had originally asked for further information on billing in late May.
Moore said no one was doing billing the same way.
“If you look at our historical billings, you’ll see in 2022 we had non tax revenues of $175,421 and ratepayer billings of $29,990 or 17 per cent.”
In 2023, he added, non tax revenues were $334,105 with ratepayer billings accounting for $79,835 or 24 per cent.
In 2024 to date non tax revenues were $207,273 with ratepayer billings being $98,647 or 48 per cent.
Moore explained further that for 2024 there was a single bill of $83,093.
If that bill was removed, ratepayer billing would have been at eight per cent.
He said the non tax revenue also included funds received from Alberta Transportation Recoveries and the revenues from the Fire Training Centre.
He said in 2024 approximately 7.4 per cent of County taxes were used to support the fire service.
Moore pointed out the unpredictability of fires have a major impact on revenues and also costs
for the fire services.
He then gave council the data that was pursued from multiple counties, some larger, some smaller, that had been received.
In all Moore reached out to Lac Ste. Anne County, Leduc County, Bonnyville Regional Fire Services, County of Minburn, Sturgeon County, Strathcona County among others to find out how they billed for fire services and reported finding a wide variety of policies.
Moore told council it is difficult to estimate the impact of fires on taxes.
“Should council wish to move in this direction, it is recommended that a Fire Services Reserve be built to capture surpluses in light years and to enable heavy years.
Moore also told council there were now fire services bylaws with three of the five municipalities which allows Lamont County Fire Services to bill for fires within those jurisdictions.
He said if the County was to move to adding all fire fighting costs to the tax bills, then this could lead to inconsistencies within the towns and villages and could create confusion and be perceived as unfair.
At the end of his presentation, Wick said there had been concerns between what Lamont was charging and what Two Hills was charging.
He said in some ways Lamont was cheaper than Two Hills depending on what units responded.
Moore said Lamont used three tenders when attending rural structure fires.
He added Alberta Transportation had a rate charged of $750 per hour per apparatus and Vegreville used this rate.
Division Four Councillor Roy Anaka asked how they could differentiate between the urban and rurals when it came to billing.
Tarnawsky offered a few suggestions but said
it would be very challenging.
He further pointed out it was tough to differentiate between who pays and who actually uses the services, adding he didn’t want to seem insensitive to anyone who may have lost a home in a fire.
Council continued to wrestle with different ways to bill and included those who carried fire insurance and those who didn’t.
Council did feel for those who don’t have insurance and suddenly
receive a massive bill if they suffer a structure fire.
Tarnawsky said that may have been why there had been a cap on the amount of billing on a previous bylaw.
Diduck wondered about fairness when it came to having a straight billing model versus charging per fire call out for those who might have insurance and those who didn’t.
Council wrestled with this idea and were told if total billings were added to the tax bill it could be
half a percentage increase per farm and residential tax bill.
After some length of time and much discussion, council wondered if they had made any progress.
Wick argued many of the jurisdictions queried had tax controlled fire billing unless the fire was intentionally started.
The agreements with the municipalities and how billings could be charged did pose a dilemma for council.
Council decided to
accept the discussion as information until they could gather more information.
They agreed they didn’t have enough information to make any policy decisions yet.
Tarnawsky said the County had to be able to recover the costs but how this was built into a policy would take much more discussion and research.
Council moved to accept it as information with further information to be obtained for future discussions.
Lougheed FAIR 101st Annual
Saturday, August 10
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Bruderheim resident
Grant Northcott, 68, has plenty to be grateful for. Last Aug., Grant survived kidney cancer after having his left kidney, and the attached tumour, removed at the Royal Alex Hospital.
The life-changing condition forced Northcott into retirement from his security job. Today, Grant said he is, so far, cancer free and enjoying life with a new biking partner; his wife of nine years, Alice.
ahead for biking senior Bruderheim couple
“I have to watch what I eat. But otherwise, I'm doing great,” he said. “(Alice) is doing really well (on her bike). I’m very impressed. (She) is a great passenger, and she's a great partner and I couldn't ask for anything else. God has been good to us.”
Alice, 66, passed her motorcycle learners’ license on July 30 and is getting in as much practice as she can on her 2008 Suzuki Boulevard.
Grant said the threewheeled bike is as ‘stable
as a car’ and great for travel.
“You can’t go wrong on a three-wheeled machine,” he said. “You hear so many stories about guys having their bikes slip out from under them. These things are as stable as a car.”
Alice agrees. She smiled big, grasping the handlebars and zipping around Brookside Park in Bruderheim recently.
While Grant has been riding for the past six years, Alice has so far only been a passenger.
“Mostly my husband wants me to ride with him,” she said. “That’s how come I got a bike. I love it. Being a bike with training wheels, it feels very secure.”
While Grant’s bike is the same model and one year newer than Alice’s, he previously owned a
replica Ural with a side car where his dog Trooper used to sit.
Trooper donned goggles as he rode along with Grant and became a familiar site cruising around town. Grant said the Ural needed constant repairs and he finally gave it up in favour of
his new model. In terms of the future, Grant said a road trip is in the plans.
“The big thing is to get her licensed and get her some more experience on the road,” he said. “Then we'll probably go down to Calgary or something like that.”
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Bruderheim senior couple Alice, 66, and Grant Northcott, 68, are gearing up for some highway adventures after Alice recently passed her motorcycle learners’ test. Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Thrift Store coming to Bruderheim
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Bruderheim resident Somy Thomas, 63, said she saw a need in the community and decided to take action.
Over the past few weeks, Thomas has been collecting donations of gently used items to stock her new local
Thrift Store, set to open at the Moravian Church compound on Aug. 10.
“I realized there is not much shopping (here). People have to go to Fort Saskatchewan for everything. Nowadays, everybody is going to a thrift store and buying, because economically,
that is more affordable,” she said.
Thomas said she spoke to town office employee Sherry Cote, who helped connect her with the Moravian Church who could provide a place for her to operate the nonprofit business.
Thomas said she has
Bruderheim Minor Sports to host Taekwondo camps
BY JOHN MATHER Bruderheim Minor
Sports Association will be hosting some Taekwondo classes for youth later this month.
If the classes do well, said BMSA representative Brooklyn Torresan, then the organization will host a much more comprehensive program in the fall.
The summer camps will be held the week of Aug. 19 to 25. They will be held at the former Moravian Church.
According to Torresan
the classes will offer kids the opportunity to learn self defense, improve their fitness and flexibility, build confidence and discipline and the chance to make some new friends.
“The classes will be hosted by Top Taekwondo out of Fort Saskatchewan.”
The cost for the camps is $75.00 for kids and $85 for teens.
The younger group will begin the earlier classes which start at 10:30 a.m. while teen
LOCATION: 51263 - RG RD 225 Strathcona County
DIRECTIONS: Being from the Junction of Highways
14 to Rg. Rd. 225, then
TWP Rd. 512, then 1
Tractor: JD 5020 Diesel Tractor c/w cab, dual hyd., 1000 PTO, good rubber, 1107 hrs. showing, S/N T313R-027032R
Haying Equipment: NH Super 1049 SP Bale Wagon, cab, 4-sp trans, V-8 eng, 160 bales, 187 hrs. showing S/N 4619; NH 320 Hayliner Square Bale c/w hyd. tension & 1/4 turn chute, like new; NH 495 12-ft Haybine c/w Crazy Reels, rubber rolls & trans; NH 260 & 258 Bar V-Rakes c/w tandem hitch; HN 851 Auto Wrap Round Bale; Farm Hand 4W Hay Rake; 10 Bale Stooker 3-Point Hitch Equipment: MF 8-ft 3-ph Dyna Balance Hay Mower; MF 10-ft 3-ph DT Cultivator; MF 3-ph 4-Bottom Plow; 3ph 8-ft Disc; 3-ph Post Pounder; Douglas 72-inch 3-ph Rototiller Truck: 1979 Chev C60 3-Ton Truck, 5x2 trans, V-8, c/w 16-ft wooden box & hoist, S/N C160B9V114375
Field Equipment: Degalman 4-ft Rock Picker c/w PTO drive; Riteway 12-ft Hyd. Drive Rock Rake c/w hyd. lift; AC 2300 -
not yet decided on recipients for the store’s profits, but said she is considering her church in Fort Saskatchewan, Bridge
Church, or possibly STARS air ambulance.
“I can give it to anyone (who is a) registered charity receiver,” said
classes begin at 11:30.
The cutoff or registration is Aug. 16. Torresan said four children are currently registered but she is expecting the classes to fill up.
“It’s something we thought we would offer on a trial basis,” she said. “So far it seems to be filling up.”
People are asked to register their children on the RAMP site which the Association uses for registering its Minor Soccer programs.
16-ft Tandem Disc c/w flip-up wings; MM 24 Run 12-ft DD Seed Drill c/w fert. attach, hyd. lift on rubber; IHC 18-ft VS Cult c/w 3ft Flip-up wings; JD 4x16-ft Bottom Plow; MF 10-ft Tandem Disc c/w hyd. lift; IHC 10ft DT Cultivator c/w hyd. lift; 20-ft Land Roller c/w 32-inch Drum; Hyd. Harrow Drawbar c/w 12 harrow; MF 15 Mixmill c/w extra screens, 540 PTO & hyd. intake auger; IHC 530 Manure Spreader; 2W Swather Mover; Field Sprayer c/w 250-gal. tank & 30-ft booms
Harvest Equipment: JD 800 14-ft SP Swather c/w bat. reel, good canvases & hay conditioner; MF 300 SP Combine c/w chopper; UFA Grain Cleaner c/w 5 screens; Westfield J206-41 Grain Auger c/w Kohler ES engine; Robin 6-inch x 24-ft Grain Auger; Two 4-inch x 16-ft Grain Augers c/w E motors Miscellaneous: Jiffy Truck Mount Bale Mover & unroller; 800-gal. Water Tank; Threshing Machine; Assort. Old Farm Equipment; 23 Beatty Cow Stanchions
Thomas. The Grand Opening for the Bruderheim Thrift Store will happen on Aug. 10 at 10:30 a.m.
Land for sale by tender (pasture / hay)
Ducks Unlimited Canada hereby offers the following land for sale by tender:
Z Camrose County: NE1-47-18-W4 (142.28 acres)
Z Beaver County: NW14-48-14-W4 (141.29 acres)
Z Lamont County: NW7-55-17-W4 (148 95 acres), SW25-55-18-W4 (158.28 acres), SE35-55-18-W4 (160 acres), SE36-53-18-W4 (160 acres)
For more information on the parcels or tender process, contact James Olson:
Z 780-678-0404 Z james olson@ducks.ca
Submissions are due by 1PM (MST) on Aug. 30, 2024.
Local bottle depot raises nearly $1,800 for Jasper fire victims
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Bruderheim’s bottle depot is one of approximately 250 bottle depots across the province which took part in an effort to raise funds supporting victims of the Jasper National Park fires called ‘Alberta Day of Caring for Jasper’.
While the intention was to collect donations on the same day, July 31, Bruderheim Bottle Depot
owner/ operator Harrison Park, who also owns and operates the local Vintage Liquor store, said they were asked to extend the deadline.
“They said only one day, but (I got) an email saying if possible, try more days. But the deadline is today (Aug. 5),” said Park, adding that Shell Scotford donated $1,200 while Park’s customers donated an additional $591 and wrote encouraging messages beside their donations.
Messages of encouragement for the Jasper National Park fire victims are written by generous donors at the Bruderheim Bottle Depot.
Park posted his gratefulness to social media for the community’s support.
“Your kindness not only provides crucial financial assistance but
also offers hope and encouragement to those affected by this disaster,” he said.
“It’s truly inspiring to see our community come together in times of need.”
Meanwhile, according to reports by Jasper National Park, the Jasper Wildfire Complex now spans more than 34,000 hectares after burning for the past two weeks.
The town of Jasper was evacuated on July 23. On Aug. 3, a 24-year-old firefighter was killed after being struck by a falling tree while fighting a section of the complex.
According to reports, RCMP said the man was part of the Rocky Mountain House Fire Base and one of 700 firefighters currently in Jasper battling the wildfire.
Photo: Jana Semeniuk
BY JOHN MATHER
It’s a three year program which, when complete, will offer help for researchers around the world interested in learning about the mushroom/fungi development in Alberta.
Rick Watts heads up the mushroom identification program for the Elk Island National Park/ Beaver Hills Biosphere program because he is both a director of the Friends of Elk Island and the Alberta Mycological Society, which is the group that studies and encourages people to forage for mushrooms across the province.
“The Friends of Elk Island supports projects at Elk Island National Park through citizen science projects,” he said.
Watts lives just west of the Blackfoot Grazing Reserve in Strathcona County.
The project aims to identify and trace the DNA of mushroom and fungi in the Elk Island region and the Beaver Hills Biosphere area.
“Every year the Mycological Society travels to different areas of the province to spend the September long weekend cataloguing mushrooms which is a really cool thing to do.”
He said he got involved in 2012 when the society was doing a project in Elk Island National Park and he has been helping out since then.
Last year, he said the society was approached by an ecologist in Elk Island because they had some mushroom and fungus data but it was from the 2012 project.
“They don’t historically include fungi in their environmental planning cycle,” said Watts. “And the main reason for that is because mushrooms are difficult… they’re cryptic. It’s a poorly understood discipline.”
He said the fungi are in the ground all around us but “you don’t know they’re there until they fruit.”
“It became the perfect
opportunity to start a new project but it was felt we should include the entire Beaver Hills Biosphere area but with the emphasis on Elk Island National Park.
“What we’re doing is a three-year project collecting mushrooms, identifying them, cataloguing and examining its DNA if there’s a need for that,” explained Watts.
“Over the course of the next three summers we’ll build on the catalogue of 2021 information and get the public involved in assisting in searching for the mushrooms and identifying them.”
He explained tracking the DNA of the fungi is important because it allows which mushrooms are related to one another.”
He said there is a database of DNA for mushrooms across North America. Watts said if they find a mushroom which through its DNA indicates it might be part of one family or group of mushrooms, they can compare it with other DNA in the database and find out either how widespread it might be or how unique.
“We can do a DNA blueprint and then put it into a global database.”
He said it would help out with the naming of mushrooms as opposed to telling how the mushroom may have come to be located in this area.
He said it would help discover new species, but that is fairly rare.
“It’s not uncommon to find new species which haven’t been found in Alberta before.”
He said in the past ten
years while he’s been with the Mycological Society he’s aware of one totally unique new species of mushroom being discovered.
“Mushroom spores are all around us,” he said. “Now the spores are transplanted by mud on the soles of boots among other methods, but then again a new species might have been there all along, but the conditions weren’t favourable for it to fruit.”
“Some species only fruit every 20 or 30 years.”
Watts said most mushroom spores move through the air, but they can be transported on animal hies or by birds.
“Some of the spores can be sticky so they cling to things or others might have hooks to grab on to something. It’s a very very diverse group of organisms.”
Watts said without fungi there would also be no decay in nature.
“They break down organisms in the natural systems,” he said.
He said he has a friend in Montana who examines the use of Oyster mushrooms to assist in cleaning up oil spills in South America.
The Oyster mushrooms help decay the aromatic compounds within the oil compounds.
Mushrooms also help the soil and trees collect moisture.
He said he hadn’t read anything on climate change affecting mushroom production but he wouldn’t be surprised. “Mushrooms in many ways are like icebergs,”
he said. “You see the fruiting part of the mushroom but you don’t see the long underground root structures.”
He said the roots structures of some mushrooms can stretch for miles and miles and some scientists say mushrooms are some of the world’s most extensive organisms.
He adds they require moisture, but when its dry they don’t fruit so you don’t see them.
Watts added some mushrooms will thrive after a wildfire.
Continued on Page 14
KOTTKE, Patricia
December 23, 1940 ~ July 24, 2024
Patricia Kottke of Bruderheim, Alberta passed away at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton. She leaves to mourn her loss, her son Robert; daughters Joanne (Rob) and Susan (Renee); five grandchildren and one great grand daughter; sister Bernice (Fred) and sister in law Wilma, Elsie (Marvin); also many nieces, nephews and friends.
At Patricia’s request, there will be no funeral service.
Cremation has taken place and a private family graveside service will be held. In lieu of flower donations can be made to Bruderheim Community Church Building Fund or Lamont Hospital Patient Care Fund.
9914 - 103 St. Fort Saskatchewan, AB Phone: 780-998-1422
Fax: 780-998-1423
Email: ortsask@serenity.ca Website: www.serenity.ca
Spasa Moskalyk
100th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, August 17, 2pm – 5pm
Join us for Ukrainian Lunch & Entertainment! 535058 Rge Rd 160
$10 for Adults, Children (16 and under) are FREE Follow us on Facebook – Spasa Moskalyk Ukrainian Catholic Church
Rising Crime Severity Index for the Two Hills RCMP detachment is good news
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Every year, Statistics Canada releases their ‘Police reported crime statistics in Canada’ which contain a CSI (Crime Severity Index) score for each of the 118 detachments in Alberta.
This score, according to the report, tracks how much crime the police are paying attention to in addition to how serious the crimes are.
The Two Hills RCMP detachment, for 2023, scored 131 on their CSI which is up 6.2 percent from 2022, which Sgt. David Henry said is a good thing.
“It’s going up because of the work we are doing. We are actually catching the guys,” he said.
Sgt. Henry explained that due to increased apprehension of criminals and the property they stole, their CSI will increase as these crimes and captures get tallied. He added that the community has been instru-
mental in the apprehension of criminals.
“Community members have been calling in suspicious vehicles and suspicious people. And with that, we've been actually getting these guys instead of them disappearing and taking another vehicle and taking off,” he said.
While Sgt. Henry said the number of vehicle thefts in the area has not increased, he is concerned with the number of mental health calls that he said have ‘gone through the roof’.
“We take them in to get help. We do a lot of that and my team is extremely busy,” he said.
“Our mental health calls are up over 200 percent.”
Sgt. Henry said he attributes the increase in mental health calls to drug addiction in addition to residual effects from the COVID lockdowns from 2020-2022.
“(The lockdowns) did a lot of mental health damage when people
had to stay home and they lost a lot of life skills. It did more damage than anyone will care to recognize,” he said, adding that social media has also played a part in deteriorating the mental health of young people.
“Our younger generation has (social media) where people only show the best of their life and don’t hear when (these people) are struggling. They don’t see when they are down and out, when they are sick and can’t pay rent” he said.
“They don’t post that. Only beautiful perfect pictures. There’s a need for approval.”
Sgt. Henry said one thing that can help people who are struggling with mental health is to get rid of social media.
“Talk to your friends. The ones you really trust. Have a discussion face to face,” he said. “We’re losing that human connection.”
CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS
AUCTIONS
Meier Unreserved Live Auction Sale for Ronwood Enterprises Ltd. Saturday August 17 10am. Consort. Kenworth C500B Tri/Axel Hot Oil Truck. 2017 Gerry's Tri/Axel Double Drop. 1984 Kenworth Winch Truck. Lazer Tridem Tanker Trailer. Lazer Triden Pup Tank Trailer. 2001 Mack Winch Truck. John Deere Skid Steer, Liquid Storage Tanks, Fuel Tanks, Shop Equipment. Visit www.meierauction.com for more details.
MCDOUGALL AUCTIONEERS. Online Equipment Auction. POLUS COMMUNICATIONS DISPERSAL -Aug. 15. Bid on a Fleet of Hydrovac Trucks, Directional Drills & more. Emerald Park, SK MCDOUGALLAUCTION.COM. 1-800263-4193.
AUTOS
SELLING 3 COLLECTOR VEHICLES.
1999 Pontiac GTP Nascar Pace Car. Rare model with sunroof. 1998 Cadillac Eldorado. Last series of the Eldorado. 1928 International Truck. All run and drive great. All Car Show ready. 403-944-2609.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Celebration of Life for Duane Stauffer, who passed away on September 8, 2023, will be held at the Tofield Golden Club at 2pm, on Monday, August 26th. A lunch will be served, anyone who knew him is welcome.
Raspberries are Ready! **No Saskatoons** Beans, Beets, Carrots, and Potatoes ready! Taking orders for Pickling Cucumbers. Off Highway 13 Turn North on RR 122 go North 3 Miles Helen Tanton 780-888-6800
Bruderheim Community Thrift Store. Opening Soon, 5 Days a Week! Located in the Moravian Church Community Hall, Bruderheim, Alberta. For donations & inquiries, contact 780-707-0810
BIBLE STUDY
I would like to Bible study with other Christians based on the Doctrine of Christ's atonement rather than on the present day deceitful denominational teaching of theological dispensationalism. Call Wilbur 780-245-1316
COMING EVENTS
Alliance Bench Fair
Wednesday, August 21 at the Alliance Community Hall in conjunction with the Farmer's Market. Entry books at the Post office and library. No entry fee. Entries in at 9:30 pick up at 3.
BUILDINGS FOR SALE
FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR
2024 AUCTION PROGRAM: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Toll-Free 1800-694-2609, Email Us at sales@switzersauction.com or Visit Us @ www.switzersauction.com.
FOR SALE
Brian’s U-Pick Fruits, Berries, and Veggies has Strawberry Runners for sale. Available now.
•Goji Berries Suckers - 2 months old - plotted and ready to be picked up and planted. Buyers responsibility to pick up immediately after payment.
•Summer Raspberry plants for sale. until August 15.
•Fall berries ready August 15.
•Dwarf Cherry and Plum trees available. Buyers responsibility to dig up trees purchased. Payment required before digging.
All sales are final. No refunds or returns. Cash only. Everything must go! Call Brian at 780-678-0053
Firman Generator For Sale
4550 watt gas in excellent condition. $850. If interested, text Paul 780-218-9029.
SEED FOR SALE
WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN - Heated, Mixed, Tough, Light, Bugs, Spring Thrashed....Barley, Wheat, Oats, Peas, Flax, Canola. "On Farm Pickup". Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252.
ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.
PUPPIES FOR SALE
Standard Cockapoo puppies ready for furever homes. Excellent family and Companion dogs! Hypoallergenic/ Non-shedding Expected to be 35-45lbs fully mature. Veterinarian checked with first shots. 1200$ OBO. Call or Text 780982-8411
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.
HEALTH
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-453-5372.
FOR RENT
Non-smoking, 1 bedroom apartment for rent in Killam. Available September 1. Text Chuck 780-263-7290
For Rent in Viking. 3 bedroom townhouse. Comes with fridge, stove, washer, dryer. Includes all utilities except internet. Available August 1. Call 780-336- 6089 or 780-336-6088
Clean, non-smoking 2 bedroom house for rent. Partially finished basement. Detached garage. Close to Main Street Sedgewick. Reasonable rate. Available September 1, 2024. Call Liz at 780-385-1600.
REAL ESTATE
SELLING MY RETIREMENT HOUSE with river and mountain views on 3.93 acres along the Red Deer River and adjoining 200+ acres of environmental reserve. Buy 4 acres and enjoy the use of 204 acres. For more information and pictures, see MLS listing #A2148481.
Belvedere Gardens #7 in Tofield. 891 Sq. Ft. end unit, front & back door (patio), infloor heating & garage, 2 bedroom, full bathroom. Condo fee includes yard maintenance/water/gas. All appliances included (laundry room), one floor, no stairs, backs onto arena across the road. Asking $190,000. No renters. Pictures available through email. Contact Darlene Martin 780-910-3587, darmkjos@yahoo.ca.
SERVICES
Medical Taxi Service
Personal Taxi Service to Edmonton and Back
$175
•Absolutely NO Hidden Fees
•Escort to Reception/Waiting Room
•Pick up and Drop off at your door
•Top Notch Service!
•Retired Medic
•Locally Owned and Operated 587-987-7810
Hawkeye Ag Inc. Custom Corral Cleaning. Excavator, Bulldozer, Grader, Skid Steer, Compactor, Manure Spreader. Serving Lamont County and Areas, custom corral cleaning, earth works, aggregate and excavation. Call Clayton @ 780.718.7479, or email at hawkeyeagservices@outlook.com.
Specializing in Hail Damage
Metal Roofing, Vinyl Siding, All Farm Structures, Metal and Building Restructuring. Call Clint at 780-226-9693. AA Affordable Contracting. Serving local area for 30 years. CWB Covered and Fully Insured.
Mike & Dave Rv Inc. Service, Storage, Parts. Call us today! 780-415-5015 or visit our website: www.mdrv.ca **Located just 11 kms North of Tofield on Highway 834**
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
RJM Electrical. Ron Malowany, Mundare. ronmalowany@yahoo.com. 780-888-1130
Clay-Con Construction Clayton Rauser38+ year Journeyman Carpenter 780-385-5448
All Types of Renovations •Additions •Decks •Roofing •Concrete •Windows •Framing •5” Continuous Eavestroughs •Siding •and More!
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
WANTED
COLLECTOR/ ENTREPRENEUR PURCHASING COINS & COLLECTIONS! CASH PAID! ROYAL CANADIAN MINT COINS, collections, rare & old coins, silver & gold coins, jewelry, nuggets, bullion, sterling, gold & silver! 306-774-2420. TRAVEL
and an abundance of activities! Hotel suites starting from just $750/month. Learn more at www.osoyoossnowbirds.com;
Rick Watts, who lives in Strathcona County, stands by a display outlining the Friends of Elk Island/ Beaver Hills Biosphere project to catalogue mushrooms in the region to assist forming a North American database. He was part of the Wild Mushroom Expo held in Devon Aug.4 put on by the Alberta Mycological Society.
Mushroom project
Continued from Page 10
He said Morels are one type that will fruit extensively about a year after a wildfire.
The Mycological Society has a permit to allow them to pick in National Parks, but the general public isn’t allowed to.
He said in Alberta mushrooms are more extensive towards the Rocky Mountains as opposed to eastern Alberta where it is drier.
He added along the river valley of the North Saskatchewan River would probably be a fertile ground for mushroom growth because of its moisture.
The information gathered through the research to develop the database of mushroom types will be able to be accessed by mushroom foragers.
They will be able to access what sort of mushrooms might be in areas where they plan to do their foraging.
“The real objective is it’s part of a broader project across North America where we can catalogue all the mushrooms that grow across North America.”
He added there are many mushrooms that grow in North America that are similar to mushrooms which grow in Europe.
“When settlers first came to North America they discovered these mushrooms and gave them the same names, but we now know through the DNA that they are similar but totally different species.”
“It’s all very complicated,” he said. “You can find a mushroom with the same name in North America and while the European mushroom might be quite edible, the North American variety is poisonous.”
Two Hills sergeant shares RCMP history at Haying in the 30s
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Two Hills RCMP Sgt. David Henry spent the weekend dressed in red surge manning a vintage RCMP detachment from the early 1900s at the 26th annual Haying in the 30s event in Mallaig Aug. 34.
The event recreates an old farming town in the depression era complete with a one-room school house, general store, dentist office, doctor’s office and saloon among many other buildings.
Additionally, several parcels of land are nearby where vintage farming techniques, using real horse power, are demonstrated. The event is completely free, although donations are accepted at the ‘bank’ with 100 percent of the proceeds given directly to those affected by cancer.
Sgt. Henry said it’s an event he looks forward to every year because he gets to do what he loves most; connecting with people.
“For me, it’s everything,” said Henry. “This is where people come to actually go back in time, to where things were, I feel a little simpler. And things weren't as complicated. It's just a time where you can enjoy people.”
Sgt. Henry proudly showed visitors around the little detachment
where fur coats hung on the log walls and a vintage fingerprinting machine was tucked beneath photos depicting the harsh conditions RCMP endured to do their jobs in the early 1900s.
“To me, this is what policing was when we were (part of the) community. When we could sit on our deck and watch the community and be part of them,” he said. “To me, there's a lot of history that we were part of (in) the community to begin with. They picked us out of the community to work together. And when we're on horseback going all that distance (we were) dependent on people and (the) community.”
Meanwhile, Real Corbiere is in his early 60s and still gets emotional when he talks about the Haying in the 30s event. His father, Edgar Corbiere, began the event in 1999 as a way to pay back the community for the support they gave to his family as Real was going through
his own cancer treatment in 1986.
“My dad started this because of what I went through,” Corbiere said.
Corbiere was 25 when he was diagnosed with a potentially fatal cancer requiring treatments in Vancouver.
“It was a form of leukemia. I had it in my liver, my lungs and my lymph nodes,” he said.
Corbiere said after taking chemotherapy and radiation the doctors were not hopeful. Then, one doctor told him he may qualify for a bone marrow transplant and it was discovered Corbiere’s 16-year-old sister Carol was a perfect match. Carol said the transplant day has become a special day for the family and is recognized every year.
“It’s like a birthday,” she said. “January 14, 1987.”
Meanwhile, the bills were piling up for the family and the community pitched in with muchneeded financial help. Edgar Corbiere never forgot the gesture. As
documented on the event’s website, Edgar got a vision for the event after meeting a convoy of six beautiful covered wagons while driving to St. Paul in 1999.
“I approached the wagoneers thinking we could have a fun weekend, making hay like in the 30s,” he is quoted on the website. “But after reconsidering, I thought why not do it for cancer victims undergoing treatment.”
Since then, the event has grown to include over 50 displayed buildings and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Since it’s inception, at least 7,500 cancer victims have been helped with over $6 million. This year the event attracted more than 3,500 people and raised more than $340,000.
The St. Michael Agriculture Society began an annual fundraiser in 2006 with all proceeds donated to Haying in the 30s. The event encompasses a dinner and auction at the St. Michael Hall raising thousands every year.
This year, board of director member Bernie Flrokow presented a cheque to Corbiere on Aug. 3 for $34,475.50. The event’s founder, Edgar Corbiere, passed away in 2018 at the age of 87.
Saturday, August 24 24
Two Hills Sgt. David Henry kneels to chat with young visitors at his RCMP display. (Right) St. Michael Ag. Society member Bernie Florkow presents a $34,475.50 cheque to Real Corbiere.
Reeve’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament – Golf spaces sold out! Hole Sponsors (opportunity)
Thank you to all registered & our sponsors—we still have a few hole sponsorships available. Contact us ASAP at: economicdevelopment@lamontcounty.ca
See: lamontcounty.ca/ public-tenders
Proceeds this year, go to Lamont County’s Food Bank for the purposes of its building fund and food hamper program.
A shout out to our Gold Sponsors: Cenovus, CLH Group Inc., Edge Equipment, GraymontLamont Co., Sameng, SIL Industrial Minerals, Western Asphalt Products & Wolf Midstream.
Coffee
Talks (with a Councillor)
Coffee with a Councillor continues in August, September and October. Dates and locations will be announced soon. See lamontcounty.ca/ coffeetalks for schedule and summaries. This is further opportunity for the public to ask questions and receive updates in an informal and smaller setting in each Division.
Community Services:
August 12 at 10 a.m. Lamont County Administration Building
Serving Lamont County, Lamont, Bruderheim, Mundare, Andrew & Chipman
(VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming for full posters and locations, or call 780-895-2233 for info./registration). Some of the current CALC, FCSS & KFRN include:
1. Summer Fun Programs – Messy Art, Science Fun, Nature Nuts – for families with children ages 0-6. (Andrew, Bruderheim, Chipman, Lamont, & Mundare) For more info. Contact: erin.b@lamontcounty.ca or use the QR code below.
2. Mindful Meet Ups (crafts and activities for families of all ages). For info. contact erin.b@lamontcounty.ca or 780-895-2233 x244.
3. Youth Coalition: for more info contact Erin.B@lamontcounty.ca
4. Meals in Motion: AUGUST Menu. Call Chrissy to order at 780-975-9592.
Access current monthly services & programs information scan the QR code or for FCSS, CALC and KFRN on each of the services’ Facebook pages: | FCSS: FCSSlamontcountyregion | KFRN: groups/1922602184662497 | CALC: LamontCountyAdultLearns |
5. SUMMER CAMPS – Specific information is available (posters) at lamontcounty.ca/communityprogramming and the registration form is also available to download there. Limited spaces remain. ntcountyca
For more info, scan the QR code or lamontcounty.ca/community-programming | Contact
Fire Restriction and Rural Crime Tips for Safety/Prevention
Please note: Lamont County is currently under a Fire Restriction. Learn more at: lamontcounty.ca/news/post/fire-restriction-in-effect-july-23 & see tips for emergency preparedness including reducing your fire risk in the field: lamontcounty.ca/departments/emergency-services/be-prepared Additional tips and safety around rural crime: lamontcounty.ca/departments/enforcementservices/fraud-prevention. And if you have questions: see lamontcounty.ca/FAQs REPORT, REPORT, REPORT! all suspicious activity to the RCMP (even if you think they are unable to respond…all information is tracked into a database and trends will be followed up on)! The Government of Alberta has also implemented surveillance teams led by the Alberta Sheriffs to further focus on rural crime.
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village – UCC-APC UKRAINIAN DAY
Join the Ukrainian-Canadian Congress – Alberta Provincial Council, for Ukrainian Day: Strength in Unity on Sunday, August 25 at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. See: uccab.ca/programs/Ukrainian-day/ There will be food, drinks, performances, concerts, displays and a lot of entertainment.
lamontcounty.ca/ community-programming
AUGUST MENU NOW AVAILABLE
#Students - Reminder of the Centennial Scholarship program (and a few of the local scholarships available to graduates). Check out https://lamontcounty.ca/scholarships for details and deadlines. The #LamontCounty Centennial Scholarship has a deadline of Aug. 31.
Please Note – inFocus is also available for viewing online at: www.lamontcounty.ca/communications (for those wanting to view the weekly submission as full-sized PDF and to access hyperlinks).
ISDAB Appeal Hearing (August 12)
Annual Service Level and Public Engagement Survey
Thank you to everyone who completed Lamont County Council’s annual public engagement survey (from June 15 to July 31). This is an important way the public provides feedback to Council related to service level and budget planning. Results from the survey will be presented in Council and shared on social media and lamontcounty.ca once these are compiled and analyzed. Lamont County Council values your input and feedback.
Registration Renewal Reminder
If your last name or company begins with the letters E, Gr, and R; remember to get your registration renewed before the end of August!
See a monthly reminder list at: alberta.ca/vehicle-registration-expiry-date-chart.aspx. This message is brought to you by the Elk Island Traffic Safety Partners.
Reduce the Risk – Farmer Mental Health Support
Canada is facing a mental health crisis; many people are struggling with mental health and addiction issues across the country. Help is out there!
Farmers typically don’t seek out help when they are struggling with their mental health, but help is available for those who:
- may feel like they should be able to handle any situation on their own, including emotional distress or personal struggles.
- may be worried that mental health professionals would not understand their needs due to the nature of their work as farmers (lack of Ag Culture competency).
- are production-focused and often don’t recognize the impact that prioritizing mental health can have on their farm & family.
This is an Alberta approach to farm mental health: https://www.agknow.ca/ (as part of the Alberta Farm Mental Health Network and resources).
REMINDER: Lamont County summer roadside work continues. Please exercise caution when passing equipment, including private farm and industrial equipment on our roads.
Beaver Control Reminder and SQUEAL ON PIGS
The next ASB meeting is scheduled for August 14, at 9:00 a.m. The public is welcome to attend at the Lamont County Administration Building or virtually through Microsoft Teams (link): lamontcounty.ca/departments/agriculturalservices/agendas-minutes-asb.
To present or speak at a meeting, please contact Agricultural Services.
This Week’s Featured
in Lamont County
Happy #WeedAwarenessWednesday Lamont County. Each week, from AprilSeptember we feature prohibited noxious weeds for awareness and recognition. If you find it, report it!
See our social media accounts & QR Code. For a list of noxious weeds visit: lamontcounty.ca/weeds
Weed inspectors inspect/identify weeds each year as required in the Alberta Weed Control Act.
Beaver trapping commences in problem areas to reduce damage to infrastructure, water bodies & to open up flow on moving water, some dams will remain as assistance for drought prevention. Keep pets on leash for safety. Note: it is a criminal offense to damage or remove traps. If additional information is needed, contact Agricultural Services at 780-895-2585. For feral pigs/wild boar sightings, learn more: abinvasives.ca/squeal-on-pigs
Cutting Hay along Lamont County Right-of-Way
CuttingHayalongLamontCountyRight of Way
REMINDER: Anyone with intent to cut hay along any Lamont County Right-of-Way must first apply (in June each year) and be approved for an annual permit. See Policy 6054.22. Areas may be cut without notification if not permitted or those approved have not utilized the permit. NOTE: Agricultural Services has completed its first pass of grass mowing, and has commenced the second pass as of July 30.
Ag./Producer Surveys
Important surveys related to producers and agriculture are posted at lamontcounty.ca/departments/agricultural-services, including a Government of Alberta questionnaire related to renewable energy options of agricultural land, and the Adoption of Winter Wheat (U of Alberta). Producers are encouraged to provide their feedback related to this and other surveys as posted so their input is provided to the correct sources.
Road Advisory: Please be advised due to the adverse weather earlier last week, travel was not recommended on gravel roads north of HWY 45 in #LamontCounty. There are many downed trees and branches blocking travel inc. RR193 N of HWY45 to TWP580 and RR185 N of TWP572. Work is still in progress to clear this up as soon as possible. Complete a Service Request (lamontcounty.ca/servicerequests, servicerequests@lamontcounty.ca or 780-895-2892) if you encounter any road issues.
Planning Commission (MPC)
– August 7
MPC meetings are scheduled as needed, the next one is August 7, at 9:00 a.m. The public is welcome to attend at the Lamont County Administration Building or virtually through Microsoft Teams (when a link is available): lamontcounty.ca/governance/boards-committees/mpc
To present or speak at a meeting, please contact Legislative Services.
The next Regular Council Meeting is on Tuesday, August 13, starting at 9:00 a.m. The public is welcome to attend at the Lamont County Administration Building or virtually through Microsoft Teams (link): lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes.
Community Programming
Next Lamont County Council Meeting (August 13)
Noxious Weed: Noxious Weeds
Next Agricultural Service Board (ASB) Meeting (August 14)
Municipal
Meetings
Summer Wind and Storms