February 1 Lamont Leader

Bruderheim Interim CAO ready to begin Feb. 6

BY JANA SEMENIUK

Interim Chief Administrative Officer,

Bruderheim’s

Robert Stephenson, will be starting his first CAO position in Bruderheim Feb. 6.

While attending the going-away gathering for former Bruderheim CAO Patty Podoborozny on Jan. 27, he said it was obvious that Podoborozny had done a great job for Bruderheim.

“Everybody talks about it (so) it's pretty clear how good of a job she's done. So it's an exciting opportunity,” he said. “Great place, great community and really strong ties to Strathcona County.”

Stephenson said he has been with Strathcona County for four years as a strategist in Intergovernmental Affairs.

Meanwhile, Bruderhiem Mayor Karl Hauch said he expects Stephenson to be in Bruderheim for three to four months while the process to hire a permanent CAO continues.

“Because of the contract that we have with Strathcona County, they will look for applicants from within their organization and then they'll come up with a couple to shortlist and then we'll have the opportunity have input and then a CAO will be selected and maybe it'll be Robert,” he said.

Hauch added that although Stephenson has not had experience as a CAO, his governmental background and help from Podoborozny will support his success.

“He’s very intelligent (and) professionally trained. I think he will be good coming in and the great thing is, Patty is so accommodating, she's going to make sure that he's well set up for the future,” he said.

“As she's departing, she's going to ensure that the help for him remains. Strathcona has been great throughout the process of supporting our communities.”

A sad goodbye for Bruderhiem’s CAO Patty Podoborozny

BY JANA SEMENIUK Bruderheim Chief Administrative

Officer Patty Podoborozny was honoured by co-workers, residents, friends and neighbouring municipal councillors with a get-together at the Bruderheim Community Hall, Jan. 27.

At least 50 people came to wish her well before she embarks on her new position as CAO for the County of Minburn starting on Feb. 6. Guests grazed on a table of snacks and mingled while a slideshow of photos showing Podoborozny’s various moments over the years in Bruderheim

played on a wall in a continuous loop.

Podoborozny was emotional as she looked at the crowd, reflecting on nearly nine years with the Town of Bruderheim.

“It’s really special. Just the different people that are here, people that you just connect with (and) people that have helped me move some of my visions ahead, and I've helped them in their visions, non-profits, people from the education community, farmers, it's just amazing.

“They all came to say goodbye and thank you,” she said. “(I’ve been get-

ting) beautiful emails and cards and flowers (sent to) my home even in Vegreville.”

Bruderheim Mayor Karl Hauch said Patty was a huge asset to Bruderheim and the town was lucky to have her for as long as they did.

“Pat started with Bruderheim in August of 2014. (She’s) very strong with a Pubic Works background and quickly became a powerhouse in our community,” said Hauch. “She's a tireless worker, great motivator, good team player, does a lot of great things for our community (and she’s) super good at applying for grants. I don't know how many millions of dollars of grants we got for our community for fixing things in our town. It's just amazing work that she's done for our community. We'll miss her.”

Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong Homeniuk had nothing but praise for Podoborozny.

“Patty's a great representative for the area. She's always championed Bruderheim and worked with all levels of government. She's very well known and very well admired. It's quite a sad day for Bruderheim,” she said. “I wish Patty all the best in her in her new venture.”

Former Strathcona County Councillor and former MLA, Jacquie

Fenske, remembered working with Podoborozny at the County of Strathcona.

“I’ve known Patty for many years since she worked with Strathcona County in Public Works, and she has just taken on task after task and has set the bar high for anyone who follows her. I know that the people in Bruderheim will miss her,” she said.

Bruderheim Director of Legislative Services, Sherry Cote, has worked alongside Podoborozny for the past nine years and said she was amazed when thinking about all they have accomplished over the years.

“Patty was here for a few months before I came in to help out at the office, so we've worked together for a long time,” she said. “I was kind of reflecting on some of the things that she's done. We started writing them down, and we had two 12x12 pages and we still weren't done all the things that we've accomplished since she's been here. It's just amazing.”

Others who attended included former Strathcona County Councillor Paul Smith, Lamont Councillor Linda Sieker, Chipman Councillor Trudy Smith, Regional Fire Chief Shayne Miliken and Canadian Rockies Hemp Corporation Chief Executive Officer Aaron Barr.

Bruderheim's new Interim CAO Robert Stephenson.

Photo: Jana Semeniuk

L-R: Bruderheim Mayor Karl Hauch, Former Bruderheim CAO Patty Podoborozny and Director of Legislative Services Sherry Cote. Podoborozny was honoured Jan. 27 at a gathering in the Bruderhiem Community Hall where friends and colleagues wished her well before she begins her new position as CAO in the County of Minburn Feb. 6.

Photo: Jana Semeniuk

New vertical farming business looks to reinvent Andrew

BY JANA SEMENIUK

A new Vertical Farming business is setting up in the Village of Andrew, with a future vision that exceeds simply growing vegetables.

Andrew Mayor Merwin Haight, introduced the new operation with a brief mention during his report on economic development during the Jan. 25 regular council meeting.

“For economic development, the Mallard Food Mart is in transition to becoming a vertical grow operation for vegetables. And there will be more information coming forward on that, and tourism facilities will take place, and we’ll get to meet with them,” he said. “Today, they're in the process of getting ownership and having things set up.”

Although no additional information was provided during the council meeting, the organizer of the Vertical Farming business, Mary Robinson, gave an interview on Youtube discussing the latest venture with Life Force Canada, an organization whose movement seeks to ‘empower our towns and communities by demonstrating a new model of living.’

In the interview, which was taped early last week, Robinson describes the new model of living as creating a self-governing society free of money. She described the vertical garden business as one small step toward the goal of purchasing the entire village through the selling of Private Member Associations.

“We want to have a Private Member Association, so this is really two projects. The first project, which is important for us to get started, is to grow the food in this facility and get it distributed and get it going, and there’s a lot of interest in that.” she said.

“Beyond that, we would like to buy the whole town, the whole town is for sale for around $6 million.”

During a questionand-answer session, Robinson said the cost of a Private Member Association fee had not

yet been decided. She said selling the Private Membership Associations would enable them to purchase the buildings and residences in the village while also providing food to those who donate their time to work.

“Whatever (food) we produce, one third of that will go to the people free. So you won't need money to buy the food that we're producing, it will be yours free. And then two thirds of what our produce is we will sell or we will export that to other people.”

Robinson said she already has three letters of intent to supply food for restaurants and indigenous people.

“We have three letters of intent to supply 200 restaurants in Edmonton, and to supply as much food as we can produce for the native people. One of our major concerns is that we get fresh food to the native people,” she said.

Robinson added that people have responded favourably when she talks to them about her vision for the future.

“When I present this to people, they get all excited because it hits their heart,” she said.

“What a man said yesterday when I delivered this to his family, he said, ‘I've been thinking about this for 20 years’. He said, ‘Give me the package’.”

Robinson compared the self-governing style of living to Hutterites and Mennonites.

“Other people have done this for years, the Hutterites and the Mennonites. And now this will be a community that isn't based on religion and is based on people conscientiously coming together and intending to grow great food to have a great life to enjoy a safe community for their children,” she said.

Mayor Merwin Haight said he attended a short presentation Robinson gave at the Andrew Lions Club last week, but said he was unaware of the video interview.

“No comment at this time as we are still learning about this group and how they might fit into our community,” said Haight.

Lamont Farmers Market

If you are someone who makes it, bakes it, or grows it, this will interest you!

There will be an information meeting for all public/farmer market vendors and customers seeking interest in a regular market being held in the Town of Lamont. We would love to have your input so please attend this meeting on Monday February 13 at the Lamont Recreation Centre Meeting Room at 7 pm.

Happy February!!

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS

Estate of:

HARVEY ALLEN TYE who died on October 25, 2022.

If you have a claim against this Estate, you must file your claim by March 8, 2023

With: MATTHEW E. KAUP OF: KAUP LAW OFFICE 200, 39 ST THOMAS STREET ST. ALBERT, ALBERTA T8N 6Z1 and provide details of your claim.

If you do not file by the date above, the Estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.

- The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, February 1, 2023

Vertical Farming business organizer Mary Robinson, is interviewed by Life Force Canada online about her vision for Andrew's future.

French Immersion

•École Parc Élémentaire

Ukrainian Language and Culture

•A.L. Horton Elementary

Christian Programs

•Fort Saskatchewan Christian School

When they muzzle elected officials we all lose

BY JOHN MATHER

“You can’t handle the truth.”

That is a line from the movie, “A Few Good Men” starring Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson.

But suddenly it seems to be happening more and more as journalists seek information which affects the readers and residents of the communities they serve.

Now let me be clear here, our publications are community papers.

We, as journalists, don’t go out of our way to seek out scandal or report maliciously on any administrative or elected officials.

If they say something in an open meeting which may prove controversial we will report on it.

But more and more the elected officials are not allowed to speak to us without going through the dreaded Communications or Information Officer.

These people are hired by organizations to paint everything the organization does, whether it’s a public company, private company, or any level of government, in a very positive light. When there is a problem, they “spin” the story to make sure the organization looks good and reflects its positive image across the community.

We’ve seen this in environmental matters, some deadly explosions or accidents, and other situations where the organization could be shown in a bad light.

The spin doctors quickly try to paint the situation in the best light for the organization that pays their salary.

The truth doesn’t really enter into it. Generally there is a smidgen of the truth but is it the full truth … I doubt it.

As a journalist it does pay to have a certain amount of cynicism.

If we look at the last provincial election, some local candidates couldn’t answer questions directly relating to their constituencies. They had massive briefing/policy binders which during candidate forums, allowed them to refer to policies on education, hospitals, climate change or whatever the issue was from a provincial perspective but not a local perspective. These binders were prepared by the backroom minders to present a sanitized message which is not necessarily 100 per cent honest.

Now this has reached into the municipal arena.

The Elk Island School Division has a policy whereby principals and school trustees are not allowed to provide their thoughts and views on issues affecting their schools until they are first vetted through the division’s Communications Director.

Caribou Publishing reporter Jana Semeniuk, our education writer, has questions and when she asks the principal or the local Lamont area trustee she is redirected to the Communications Officer.

CONTINUED

CONTINUED

Now I don’t know if the communication officer lives in the Lamont area, but I do know the local principals and the local trustee are the most knowledgable of happenings in their communities and as such should be able to answer questions without vetting through a third party.

In the same vein, local councillors should be able to answer questions in their divisions which they are totally familiar with rather than having their answers sanitized by a communication officer.

This format may not hide truthful answers but it certainly poses roadblocks and delays to journalists doing their job.

Journalists live by very specific deadlines. Each step of putting the paper together including posting articles online in a timely manner require tight deadlines.

It makes more sense then to speak directly with elected officials, or administration officials directly connected to the issues at hand, rather than go through a third party communication officer.

If I have a question speaking directly to the official or elected representative gives me a direct answer which

may well lead, and in most cases does, to another question.

If we rely on a communication officer to do this work for us, the delays generally mean we miss deadlines and therefore are unable to present important information to the community in a timely manner.

Not to say communication officers don’t have a role to play. They do inform media of events and courses going on in the community which is good, but they shouldn’t be put in charge of speaking on behalf of the elected officials, or administrative officials who have much more knowledge of the issues than the communication officer.

Trustee and council candidates ask for your vote by telling you what they will do in your region… and then once elected they are muzzled? How does that either make sense or make them effective?

It’s funny how in this age of news transparency, administrations of all sorts state they are totally transparent, as long as it’s vetted through the communication officer. The degree to how this happens varies widely. It seems the closer to urban areas the demand to use Communication Officers is

strongest. In the more rural areas, access to public buildings and people are more open.

In Beaver County there is a school that asks us to participate in their events, because they know it is good for the community. No communication people from outside the school involved! Why then in Lamont are rural schools forced to relay queries to Sherwood Park, many miles removed from the site in question, and then provide sanitized answers?

This system seems to smack of having more to hide than providing good open transparency for the local community.

Losing sight of the general population that provides the taxes that pay for the local governments and boards of education is a sad commentary on the direction our society is moving and the general population should stand up, be heard, and complain loudly about this type of system.

Speak up and demand answers from your elected officials. After all you elected them, they are answerable to you. The administrations didn’t elect them and shouldn’t have control over what they say.

BY HAZEL ANAKA

Too often these days, a person can get totally bogged down and bummed out and outright discouraged about the state of (economic and other) affairs. The prime interest rate has gone up yet again which in turn is making borrowing money or carrying debt a very expensive proposition. We’re back in a cold snap which should not be totally surprising given the time of year. I need to keep reminding myself I enjoy living in a place with four distinct seasons; and winter will be winter!

The cost of everything is up. Restaurant takeout containers are shallower. Boxes, jars, and bags of food stuffs are all smaller than they used to be. Lengths, whether it’s ribbon or rope have gotten shorter. All that plus the prices have all gone up. If sizes stayed the same, that’s one thing, but to charge more for less is a real slap in the face.

That’s partly why I’m bound and determined to use up what we’ve already bought and paid for. I was going to add a refill-sized container of liquid soap to my shopping list but decided

FROM WHERE I SIT: Bigger, bolder, proactive changes

instead to use up the multiple smaller bottles first. Maybe it’s time to use up all the fancy bar soap, too. And hand and body lotions. It’ll also serve to free up some space in drawers, closets, and cupboards. I think the consistency of travelsized toothpaste changes over time. What’s the point in stockpiling products? Use ‘em up. Likewise with shampoo and other toiletries. I probably have six started bottles of hair conditioner because it always lasts longer than shampoo. Why hasn’t some marketing whiz kid figured out that a half-sized bottle of conditioner is about the right ratio to a full-sized shampoo? I just have the very basics in makeup with a little surplus inventory and that’s good because these products really do have a shelf life.

And what about another category of consumption that is costing us money and probably complicating our lives in the process? Here, I’m talking about subscriptions. We spend a lot of money on our satellite TV package...money that disappears into thin air, month after month, year after year. Yes, it has entertainment value; yes, proportionally, it’s cheaper than a ninetyminute theatre movie and popcorn. Magazine subscriptions are another thing households can and should look at. I’m down to one magazine subscription and can’t remember the last time I actually opened an issue. It’s one of those “oh, so convenient” self-renewing things. So far, logging in to cancel it hasn’t made it onto my to do list.

Another way to

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reclaim some space and peace of mind plus bring in some bucks, is to sell off surplus goods. We’re several months away from garage sale season but there are plenty of online options including Facebook Marketplace and various Community Buy and Sell sites. I’ve never really gotten into them myself and frankly, am more likely to buy something than try selling something, but some people have huge success.

Other times, we just want things gone. Those

lousy houseplants that aren’t really thriving but refuse to die, once and for all. Or things that were gifts and we never really liked but felt guilty about chucking out. Regifting or donating items to a second-hand store are a couple of ways of freeing up the energy drain on us. Sometimes there is guilt associated with things. Who among us, doesn’t have clothes with the price tags still attached hanging in our closets? If returning them for a refund or store credit is out of the

question, it may be good enough (brand name, right season) to sell through a consignment shop.

I write about these ideas in part to remind myself that there’s always something we can do to improve a situation. I share them with you hoping that something will resonate and help you. We all know that taking action, even if it’s a teeny-weeny baby step, is powerful and can lead to bigger, bolder, more proactive changes. Whining and hand wringing isn’t cutting it anymore, from where I sit.

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The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, February 1, 2023 - 5

11:15 AM

Hunting and fishing a family affair for young award winners

BY JOHN MATHER

A brother and sister act took home the lion's share of youth trophies during the Lamont Fish and Game Association’s annual banquet Jan. 28.

Taylor Iverson, 15,

won five individual awards while her brother Matthew, 13, won four. Both also won youth participation awards.

The two live at home in Lamont County and both attend Lamont

High School.

The pair admit they started fishing when they could just walk when they were two, and then started hunting birds at 11 and big game when they were 12.

They both say that their parents got them involved in the sport because both like to fish and their dad also hunts.

In fact for the Iversons it’s not only a family affair, but an extended family affair.

Every fall they meet up with aunts and uncles for a hunting excursion in the Grande Cache/Peace River area along the Little Smokey River.

“We go for about two weeks,” said Matthew.

Taylor adds, “It’s an annual trip with my dad, my uncles, my grandpa and my aunts. And now our younger cousins are starting to come along as well.”

They stay in a pair of wall tents while they’re out in the bush.

“I love hunting,” said Taylor. “It’s such a thrill  when you encounter an animal even if you don’t end up taking it down.

“And it’s a great fami-

ly bonding time. We spend lots of time with our aunts, uncles and grandparents hunting.”

Matthew loves the thrill of when you get some animals.

“It’s also nice to be out there in the wild totally away from other people,” he said. “It’s very peaceful.”

The pair don’t always hunt together but always go out with their parents. Taylor said she wasn’t totally surprised by the number of trophies she collected during the awards night.

“I won quite a few two years ago,” she added. “I had a trophy for an elk that year. Usually I also enter some fish.”

Taylor won an award for trap shooting and she says she started that sport a few years ago with her Uncle Scott helping her.

“I try to enter a couple of competitions every year,” she added.

Matthew also com-

petes in trap shooting but trophies eluded him last year.

Matthew knew he would win some awards because during the set up for the banquet, he saw there weren’t a lot of entries in some categories.

“When I saw the limited entries I thought I might win one or two but I was surprised when I won four trophies.”

Both the Iversons give back to the association through their volunteering with the youth activities.

Dad, Dale, is the Association’s Youth Coordinator.

“We spend a lot of time with the club,” said Taylor. “We spend a lot of time planting trees or working with other kids during the Kids Can Catch fishing program.”

Both have been members of the Association for about six years.

Taylor Iverson, 15, and her brother Matthew, 13, won several awards at the Lamont Fish and Game Association annual banquet and awards nights Jan. 29. The pair have been hunting for several years beginning with fowl and then moving on to hunt big game. They enjoy hunting with their family and the thrill that encountering nature brings to them.

New Andrew CAO lodges complaint against councillor 22 days in

BY JANA SEMENIUK

The Village of Andrew’s new Chief Administrative Officer, Tim Melnyk, gave a report to the Village Council during their regular meeting Jan. 25, highlighting a complaint he wrote personally and submitted against an unnamed councillor.

Melnyk, who has been in his position for 22 days, said the number of items broken in the council’s code of conduct by the unnamed councillor is extensive.

“I do have a complaint that has to go forward to council,” said Melnyk. “I have only been here 22 days (and) I want to make sure that this (job) is going to be done right and done the proper way without having any of the bickering and bantering. So, I would prefer not to have step-over, but

if it's going to continue, I won't be here.”

Although Melnyk cited FOIP (freedom of information and privacy) as a reason he could not name the offending councillor, he did list the offences which included exercising power designated to the CAO, not adhering to all Village policies, discussing municipal business with staff members without the CAO present, discrimination, and interfering with the role of the CAO.

“I’ve had two councillors that made me feel good about being here. This is the first council I’ve been in that’s actually sat and talked with me,” he said. “(But) I'm not the fella that's going to take the crap, not even a little bit.”

Melnyk said he has had his written com-

plaint notarized to make it official.

Meanwhile, in a later interview, Melnyk said that since he presented his written complaint to council at the Jan. 25 meeting, Alberta Ministries has contacted him to inform him of two other complaints they have received.

Melnyk said he has not seen the complaints yet and does not know who made them or what the complaints are.

“Alberta Ministries took the complaints, and what they've done is to direct them to our office because they're within our municipality,” he said.

Melnyk said the Village Council will need to have a special meeting to address all the complaints. The next regular council meeting is Feb. 8 at 7 p.m.

Lamont sets small amount aside to look into Highway 28 upgrade consultations

BY JOHN MATHER

At its regular council meeting Jan. 24, Lamont Council received a request from the Northeast Regional Mayors, Reeves, Indigenous Leaders Caucus for support for its Highway 28 initiative.

The body, which includes representation from Lamont, Bruderheim, Chipman, Andrew, Mundare, and Lamont County among others, wants the Province to make the twinning of Highway 28 a priority from Edmonton up to the Old Lake Region.

If not complete twinning they would like to see passing lanes and better turning lanes at intersections.

The group will argue with the government that the corridor receives heavy vacation traffic during the summer months which can back up for several miles creating unsafe conditions.

“If we can get the Province to upgrade Highway 28 then it will make our region in Lamont County in a very enviable position for future development,” said Lamont Mayor Kirk Perrin.

He will head up a steering committee which along with a consultant will have meetings with the provincial transportation department to discuss possible upgrades.

The Northeast Caucus has argued that Highway 28 is suffering from deterioration and lack of passing lanes and collisions along the route are becoming more frequent.

First opened in 1961, there were no passing lanes on the two lane corridor between Edmonton and Cold Lake. As the military base at Cold Lake undergoes expansion officials feel the highway is only going to get busier.

The caucus further argues that 30 per cent of Alberta’s oil and gas royalties are generated from activity located along the corridor.

Some stats for the region show it is home to 133,141 residents; with a median income of $99,151. Agriculture is a major industry in the area with more than 600,000 head of cattle located in the area and 3.3 million acres of cropland under production. There are 718 active oil

wells in the region and 19.7 cubic metres of natural gas reserves with more than 2.5 cubic metres produced annually.

Lamont CAO Rick Bastow provided the update on the group’s activities for council.

“I accepted an appointment to the steering committee,” said Perrin following Bastow’s update. “It is invested with the power to hire a strategic consultant to assist in lobbying the government.”

He added a funding formula had been prepared for distribution to the members of the caucus and the contribution for the Town of Lamont would be $800.

He added the funds wouldn’t be used yet, but it would show the Town would be partaking in the ongoing discussions.

Councillor Colleen Holowaychuk made a motion for council to commit $800 in support of the Highway 28 regional initiative.

It was carried unanimously .

The caucus update was also accepted as information by the council.

New Andrew CAO Tim Melnyk addresses the village council during the regular council meeting Jan. 25 to give his CAO report which included a written complaint he has lodged against an unnamed council member. Council members shown sitting left to right are Benny Dubitz, Barry Goertz, and Mayor Merwin Haight. Photo: Jana Semeniuk

Seven year old’s ‘Art For Diabetes’ campaign donates $1,369

BY JANA SEMENIUK

Lamont resident and type-1 diabetic sevenyear-old Olivia Able, presented the Alberta Diabetes Foundation with a check last week for $1,369 with her mom Haley.

The donation was the result of Olivia’s ‘Art for Diabetes’ campaign she began last Oct. where she

has sold over 100 of her drawings to raise money for the foundation in hopes of a cure one day.

“I'm really proud of her,” said Haley. “People gave whatever they wanted. One anonymous donor gave $200.”

Haley said Olivia was diagnosed in 2020 at the age of five after many misdiagnoses. Her type of diabetes is so severe Haley had to take the first year off work to learn how to manage Olivia’s symptoms and her treatment.

She has since taken a job working from home to be available for Olivia.

Although it’s been challenging for the

family to manage Olivia’s condition, there is light at the end of the tunnel in terms of a device called the Omnipod Dash; a small wearable, waterproof pod that can deliver up to three days worth of insulin automatically.

Olivia was fitted for the device last week and Haley said the results have been life changing.

“She has not had any (needles) since Tuesday night (Jan.24) for the first time since June 26 of 2020. And we're talking 11 needles a day usually,” said Haley.

“This little machine that you fill with insulin is attached to her and we put a new one on every three days. I just put the amount of carbs into it that she wants to eat and it's preprogrammed with everything it needs to be in it knows how much insulin to give her.”

Chipman man arrested after disturbance

JANA SEMENIUK & JOHN MATHER

A Chipman man has been charged with several offenses after Fort Saskatchewan RCMP responded to a disturbance complaint at a residence in Lamont County Jan. 23.

Mackenzie Thorton, 30, a rural resident of

Chipman, fled in a stolen vehicle before police arrived.

Several surrounding police detachments, including police dog services were used and resulted in Thorton’s arrest. He is charged with failing to comply with release conditions, flight from police, driv-

ing while prohibited, mischief under $5,000 and theft of a vehicle.

Thorton was taken before a Justice of the Peace before being remanded in custody awaiting his next court appearance set for Feb. 8 at the Fort Saskatchewan Provincial Court.

Olivia said she is happy with the new device.

“It's fun, because now I

can actually run around, and I don't have to stop and get insulin. I can still run around and swim. It will go with me,” she said.

Meanwile, Haley said the family hopes to revive the fundraiser for Diabetes Awareness Month in Nov.

Dana Boivin from the Alberta Diabetes Foundation accepts a cheque on Jan. 25 for $1,369 from seven-year-old Olivia Able. Haley Able photo

Fish and Game Banquet a resounding success

BY JOHN MATHER

It was an amazing crowd that turned out to celebrate the year’s achievements of members of the Lamont Fish and Game Association on Jan. 28.

A total of 230 tickets were sold for the event which saw participants enjoy appetizers of assorted sausage, smoked bear ham, smoked whitefish and deer jerky.

The main course was a buffet of roast beef, venison balls in BBQ sauce, pulled bear in BBQ

sauce, elk roast, moose mushroom bites, wild ribs, deer stir fry with pepper and onions, waterfowl in tomato sauce, baked rabbit, baked fish, salad, mashed potatoes, vegetables, buns and gravy. Dessert followed the main course.

Lamont mayor Kirk Perrin welcomed the guests to the event.

“It’s important to take care of the environment and in Alberta we are blessed with an amazing landscape,” he said.

“The Lamont Fish and

Game Association is a wonderful contributor to the success of our region’s natural landscapes. Your efforts to protect our fish and wildlife habitats are to be commended.”

He added they ensured many more generations would benefit because of the contributions of the association.

“Truly it is groups like this that make the town of Lamont a place people want to call home.”

A letter of support from local MLA Jackie Armstrong Homeniuk

Jonas Wytrykush gets hat trick in U11 Wild loss

KERRY ANDERSON

These are some of the results from Minor Hockey League games held recently.

(Please note that scores and scoring is taken from the websites, and some game scores and scoring is dependent on proper league entries).

Elk Island U11 Wild (37-2) dropped a 10-5 game

at Smoky Lake on Sunday. SL had a 4-0 lead before Wild got on the scoreboard nearly midway through the game.

Jonas Wytrykush got a hat trick for Elk Island.

Tyson Jonker and Jace Zanatta added the other goals. Sawyer Hanson and Austin Klita added assists.

Elk Island U15 (8-4-2) won a 7-1 game at Westlock on Sunday but no scoresheet was posted at deadline, Monday.

Emerson Hauch picked up a goal and an assist in his Fort Sask. U16 AA Rangers 8-4 win over Braves on Friday.

Upcoming Auction Sales

Nick’s Oilfield Welding Killiam, AB

Real Estate & Retirement

March 31st to April 4th

Hwy #16/Rge Rd 185

Spring Consignment Sale

April 7th to 11th

Rimbey

Spring Consignment Sale

April 21st to 25th

Ron Fiveland of Westerose, AB

April 28th to May 2nd

Joe & Maria Beckman of Yellowhead County, AB

Real Estate

June 22nd to 26th

& Operated

Gary Bagstad of Rocky Mountain House, AB

June 23rd to 27th

Nick’s Oilfield Welding

was also read out.

Following the dinner a total of 76 awards were handed out to both youth and adults for their hunting and fishing prowess during the past year.

In the youth awards Ryan Carstairs won the award for the largest Walleye, White Tailed Deer and won the award for the Jerritt Zayac Memorial Trapshoot Award.

Aiden Chopping won a trophy for the boys largest Northern Pike,

while Anastazia Engman won in the girls category.

Matthew Iverson won a trophy for the largest Perch in the boys category while there was no entry for the girls.

Matthew’s sister, Taylor Iverson won the girls trophy for largest Canada Goose, while both Taylor and Matthew took home trophies for the largest Snow Goose, White Fronted Goose, and Mallard Duck in their respective categories.

Aiden Chopping won

the trophy for Ruffed Grouse while Ryan Carstairs took home the trophy for the largest White Tailed Deer.

Aiden Chopping also won the boy’s trophies for largest Mule Deer and Black Bear, while Devon Theissen won the boy’s trophy for the largest Shed Antler for a Mule Deer.

Hayden Childs won the girl’s Shed Antler category for her White Tailed Deer.

Continued on Page 14

Affordable Advertising with L

TheClassifieds

CLASSIFIED AD RATES

$14 minimum for first 25 words, 45¢ per word thereafter (G.S.T. not included)

PICTURE BOLD $10 $5

Go into The Community Press for an extra $5

ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PREPAID BEFORE INSERTION unless customer has an account in good standing.

LAMONT LEADER

Ph. 780-895-2780

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FEED AND SEED

FEED

AND

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. 1-888483-8789. 05p

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FOR RENT

Large, quiet, non-smoking 2 bedroom apartment in Killam. For viewing, call Chuck at 780-263-7290

4 bedroom suite close to Tofield. Call 780-662-2595

FOR SALE

ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR

After 2023, Brian’s Greenhouse will only accept special orders on trees, shrubs, and perennials in person with a deposit required. Call 780678-0053 to book an appointment for special orders.

COMING EVENTS

Viking United Church Shrove Tuesday

Pancake Supper February 21 from 5-7 p.m.

cost: $ Donation

Ash Wednesday Service February 22 at 7 p.m.

Everyone Welcome

You're Invited to Listen to the Gospel Story told simply and without obligation

Starting Thursday, January 12, 19, 26, and February 2. 7:30 p.m. at the Viking Legion Hall call 403-815-9045 for more info 05p

3 papers for the price of 1!

HELP WANTED

ROCKY MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT HIRING: AG Equipment Techs, Heavy Equipment TechsJourneyman, Apprentices, and CVIP/Truck Techs. View Open Roles www.rockymtn.com/car eers. Relocation and Signing Bonus Offered.

Brian’s Greenhouse U-Pick Fruits and Berries Farm is looking to hire 2 people for seasonal for 2023. Must be able and capable working weekends and shift work, as well as be able to lift and have their own transportation or valid driver’s license. Will train at the site by March 15, work can start April 1. For more information, contact Brian at 780-678-0053 for more information, appointments, and directions.

HEALTH

Lamont: For Sale 1700 sq. ft. bungalow, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, double attached garage, large greenbelt - facing lot. $355,000.00. Call Rick @ 780-908-2243

For sale by owner, 2000 sq. ft. home, 3 full bathrooms, 4 bedrooms on 80 acres, fenced & cross-fenced. Double attached garage. Phone; 780-363-3939

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

APIARIES OF ALBERTA are looking for Five Apiary Technicians $17-$20/hr depending on experience for full time (40+hrs/wk) employment March thru October 2023. Must have a min of 3 years (seasons) working fulltime on Canadian style commercial apiary in the minimum capacity of Apiary Assistant. Also required, two positions for Apiary Worker (NOC8431) $15-$17/hr, experience required. Work includes assisting Apiary Technician with all duties in the bees and honey harvesting. Gerard 780-6624449 RR4 Tofield, AB. gsieben@mcsnet.ca

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. 1844-453-5372.

SERVICES

SERVICES

Criminal Record? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.

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.

Painting

Quality Residential and Commercial Painting Betty Tkaczyk

780-632-8749 or 780-688-3564

SERVICES

GET BACK ON TRACK!

Bad credit? Bills?

Unemployed? Need Money?

We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp.

Member BBB. 1-877-9871420. www.pioneerwest.com.

Drywall Taping/Texturing

35+ Years. No Job too small

Experienced drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job big or small. Don't want to do it yourself, give me a call! Based in Killam but willing to travel.

Hand taper by trade but have experience with boxes, roller/flusher, taping tube. No bazooka exp. Have own tools (10-12" boxes, pump, angle box, roller, flusher, hand tools, etc.) Also do ceiling texture. Non- drinker, just want to work. Willing to work with existing taping crew. Call 780-385- 2106 or 780-3851251.

Carpet and Upholstery

cleaning - residential and commercial. Truck mount unit, sewer backup, and flood cleaning. Auto and RV Cleaning. Call John and Sheri at Fancy Shine Auto and Carpet Care at 780-384-3087 tfn

Roy's Handyman Services. Flooring, Trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work. Call 780232-3097

Shane’s Stucco & Drywall Service Shane Hollar Stucco (Traditional & Acrylic), Drywall, Stone, Textured Ceilings, Tile and Spray Painting 780-336-4832 shanes.stucco@gmail.com

Stop Relying on Facebook and Word of Mouth.

Advertise your Events in Three Papers for the price of one!

SERVICES

Need to re-order:

•Company Forms?

•Invoices?

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•Letterheads?

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And more!

Call your local paper with your print order today!

LAMONT LEADER

780-895-2780 lmtleader@gmail.com

WEEKLY REVIEW

780-336-3422 vikingreview@gmail.com

TOFILED

MERCURY

780-662-4046 adsmercury@gmail.com

WANTED

WANTED

To rent, prime farm land in Andrew, Mundare, Wostok area. Different rental options available, call or text 780-9754615

WANTED SASQUATCH SKULL - Also purchasing SILVER & GOLD coins, bars, jewelry, scrap, nuggets, sterling, 999+ BULLION, maple leafs, bulk silver, pre-1969 coins. Coin collector BUYING ENTIRE COIN COLLECTIONS, old $ & Royal Canadian Mint coins. TODD 250-864-3521.

CLASSIFIED ADS ARE 3 FOR THE PRICE OF 1!

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F & G banquet

Continued from Page 10

In the Youth photography category Anastazia Engman won a trophy for the Scenery class while Emma Engman won for the Wildlife category. Aiden Chopping won two photography awards in the Trophy category and Trail Camera category.

Youth Participation

Awards were presented to Ryan Carstairs, Wyatt Carstairs, Hayden Childs, Aiden Chopping, Emma Engman, Anastazia Engman, Tucker Hanes, Taylor Iverson, Matthew Iverson and Devon Thiessen.

Tationna Pichota was the recipient of the Don Block Memorial Scholarship Award.

In the adult awards the trophies for largest Walleye were won by Jason Carstairs in the men’s category while Kristine Carstairs won for the women.

Rob Hanes won the men’s largest Northern Pike while Kristine Carstairs won for the women.

Jason Carstairs won the men’s largest Perch and there were no entries for the women in that

category.

Rob Hanes won for the men’s largest Rainbow Trout while Robyn Butler won for the women.

The largest Tiger Trout for the men was won by Doug Butler and Robyn Butler captured the women's trophy.

The largest Brown Trout trophy was presented to Rob Hanes.

Jason Carstairs captured trophies for the largest Canada Goose, Snow Goose, and White Fronted Goose. He also picked  up a trophy for the largest Moose.

Rob Hanes won for largest Mallard Duck and for the largest Ruffed Grouse. Two women were awarded trophies for the women's Ruffed Grouse category with Courtney Chopping and Robyn Butler each having taken a Grouse weighing one pound and five ounces.

Cliff Chopping won the men’s Sharp Tailed Grouse, while Craig Ward won the Vic Berube Memorial White Tailed Deer Award.

The largest White Tailed Deer shot by a woman went to Christine Hoefling.

Jason Carstairs won the trophy for the largest Mule Deer.

Stacy Nice won the ladies trophy for the largest Moose. In the

archery category Rob Hanes won for both Moose and Elk.

Cliff Chopping won for largest Elk shot.

For Black Bear, Jay Gordon won for the men, while Christine Hoefling won for the women.

Mike Horton won the trophy for the largest Antelope.

In the archery category, Mike Krim won for the largest Antelope.

Rob Hanes won the men’s black powder White Tailed Deer and Christine Hoefling won for the largest Non-current Big Game for her Mule Deer.

Craig Ward the trophy for Shed Antler for men for his White Tailed Deer.

In the photography category, Rob Hanes won for both Wildlife and Trophy, while Joan Dey won for Scenery and Christine Hoefling won for Trail Camera.

In the most prestigious awards of the evening, Jason Carstairs won the George Kuzyk Memorial Master Trophy and Doug Butler won the Paul Nychka Memorial Service and Dedication Award.

During the evening there were 15 silent auction items up for grabs along with 143 items that were live auctioned by MC Curtis Childs.

Lamont Fish and Game Association member Jason Carstairs accepts the George Kuzyk Memorial Master Trophy Award from association member Dale Iverson at the association’s annual banquet and awards night Jan. 28.

Long time Lamont Fish and Game Association member Doug Butler was awarded the Paul Nychka Memorial Service and Dedication Award at the annual Fish and Game Banquet and Awards dinner Jan. 28. Here Butler, left, accepts the award from Association Youth Coordinator Dale Iverson.

Youth form an integral part of the Lamont Fish and Game Association. Throughout the year they take part in a variety of activities from learning archery skills, birdhouse building, planting trees to making gardening stakes. At the annual Association Banquet and Awards night Jan. 28, several received Youth Participation Awards for their participation. Presented by Al Biro the medal winners were Ryan Carstairs, Wyatt Carstairs, Hayden Childs, Aiden Chopping, Emma Engman, Anastazia Engman, Tucker Hanes, Taylor Iverson, Matthew Iverson and Devon Theissen.

Walk-In Tub

Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), Kalyna Family Resource Network Programs and CALC

CALC Kitchens and Creating Family Connections: to register for either program and to learn more, email Cheryl.b@lamontcounty.ca or lamontcountyadultlearns.com

As we continue the winter season, a valuable tool for road safety is now available at 511.alberta.ca. Click “Message Signs” and “Cameras” on the map to view live updates and weather conditions on major roads across the region.

Round 2 Farmer Funding

https://www.grazingschool4women.com/

See all current monthly Community Services programs using the QR code below or visit: lamontcounty.ca/ community-programming (Current programs include: Snow Angels, Income Tax Program, Parents and Tots, Family Fun Night, Digital Skills workshops, Yoga for Older Adults, February programs, as well as CALC kitchens/connections, and the latest KFRN newsletter.)

Posters and signup links are added once the events are finalized.

Alberta Healthy Living Program Free Workshops and Sessions (AHS)

The Agricultural Climate Solutions On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) is an initiative to help farmers tackle climate change. Funding for this program has been provided by Agriculture and AgriFood Canada through the Agricultural Climate Solutions –On-Farm Climate Action Fund. Read the Agriculture and AgriFood Canada OFCAF news release on the Government of Canada website. Or see https://rdar.ca/ofcaf/ for program details

The 2023 funding program opens February 13, 2023

Alberta Health Services offers free workshops for the public. Check out the current program Class Schedule: albertahealthservices.ca/assets/programs/ps-cdm-central-ahlp-program-guide-current.pdf and the current Education for Your Health Workshop Guide: albertahealthservices.ca/assets/programs/ps-cdm-central-catalogue.pdf

Mental Health Support for Ag./Farmers and Families

#BellLetsTalk day (letstalk.bell.ca) was January 25 and recognized the importance of creating positive change – allowing access to mental health care and 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).

Registration Renewal Reminder

If your last name or company begins with the letters Q and M; remember to get your registration renewed before the end of February! alberta.ca/vehicle-registration-expiry-date-chart.aspx

This message is brought to you by the Elk Island Traffic Safety Partners.

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).

)

As part of consultations on a Sustainable Agriculture Sector, a Sustainable Agriculture Strategy: Discussion Document is now available for comment until March 31, 2023. Access the survey via: lamontcounty.ca/agservices

Sustainable Agriculture Strategy (Government of Canada Consultation) w

Alberta 511 Weather Cameras

Next Agricultural Service Board (ASB) Meeting

The next ASB meeting is on February 15, 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/departments/agricultural-services/agendas-minutes-asb. If you would like to present or speak at a meeting, please contact Lamont County Agricultural Services.

The easiest way to report a road concern or request service from Lamont County Public Works, is to submit a Service Request directly on the Lamont County website.

If you have a road concern or request for service, please SUBMIT a service request online at lamontcounty.ca/service-requests. This is the easiest way to submit a request 24 hours a day and all submissions are tracked in the order received and addressed on a priority basis.

When completing your request, make sure to clearly identify the location/area/segment of the road/etc. If possible, attach a photo of your service need for further clarity. More details means we can action the request efficiently.

Keep Kids Away from Snowbanks on Sides of Roads!

Lamont County Public Works would like to remind you, please don’t allow your children to bury themselves in snow, make tunnels, or play in snowbanks along the roadside.

If children are playing in the drifts or windrows, them may not be seen. And that means there is a risk of being swept up by a snowplow! Please help us keep your little-ones safe!

Random field inspections will be conducted by the inspectors appointed by the Agriculture Service Board. Annually, a minimum of 25 fields are inspected where Canola, Mustard and Cole crops are currently being grown.

Testing methods will exactly follow standard protocols provided by the Alberta Clubroot Management Committee. Landowners are notified in writing if their land tests positive for Clubroot. To learn where Clubroot was found in Lamont County in the past year, download the Official Clubroot Map (lamontcounty.ca/departments/ agricultural-programs/pest-control-programs)

Producers require an EFP to be eligible for new funding under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership Program (CAP). See lamontcounty.ca/agservices for more details.

What are some of the benefits of an Environmental Farm Plan (EFP)?

• Creates awareness and assesses environmental risks in your operation;

• Is essential to the sustainable production of crops and livestock;

• Increases efficiency and reduces production costs;

• Allows farmers to be eligible for funding (new funding is launching April 1, 2023); and

• Is key for marketing and sustainable sourcing requirements and programs.

Interested in learning more, contact Agricultural Services at 780-895-2585 or agservices@lamontcounty.ca

Next Council Meeting

Snow Reminders/Safety

During the winter months, residents are reminded when plowing snow out of your driveway, please do not push the snow onto the public road or across the road into the ditch. Pushing snow across the road creates packed areas and slippery patches that are difficult to remove. Push snow to the right side of your driveway to ensure it does not get pushed back when the local road is plowed. Also, as a reminder, please keep kids off snow piles near roadways for additional safety.

Senior Supports

During cold weather and snow events, it may be difficult for seniors and others with fragile needs to get around. There are opportunities such as seniors programming and the Lamont County snow angels’ program.

Learn more by visiting the Family and Community Support Services page at lamontcounty.ca to see additional options for senior support. Community Services can also assist with guiding you through applications to the Affordability Action Plan and income support payments/MyAlberta Digital ID set up. Contact us at 780-895-2233 if you need assistance.

Reminder – Roadside Mulching

Lamont County Agricultural Services is working on roadside mulching from now until the end of March.

Signs are posted to enforce temporary road closures while they work. If you enter a closed area, the County will NOT be at fault for any damage to vehicles.

Please obey the signs!

The Lamont County Peace Officer is enforcing these road closures.

The next Regular Council Meeting is on Tuesday, February 14, 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 (accessible via the Lamont County website—or sign up for meeting notifications and to receive the meeting agendas) If you would like to present or speak at a meeting, please contact Legislative Services.

Clubroot Management

Clubroot Management