Time capsule planned for 65th anniversary of Chipman Lamont 1960 bus train accident
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Members of the memorial committee for the 1960 Chipman Lamont bus train accident gathered for their annual remembrance of the victims at the Russo-Greek Catholic Orthodox Church of St. John the Baptist in Chipman Nov. 24.
Chairman of the committee, Tom Hrehorets, thanked people for coming and spoke about plans for a time capsule to coincide with the accident’s 65th anniversary next year.
“What we're working on is a time capsule to commemorate that 65th anniversary,” Hrehorets told the crowd at the church. “We can have the time capsule put in next year on the 65th anniversary and that time capsule will be opened on the 100th year.”
On Nov. 29, 1960 a loaded school bus was struck by an oncoming freight train at 8:55 a.m. killing 17 high school students bound for Lamont High that morning and injuring 24 others. The 100th year of the accident will be Nov. 29, 2060.
Members of the memorial committee include survivor John Winnick and his wife Jeanette, survivor Tom Cossey and his wife Dianne, in addition to local caterer and committee chairman Tom Hrehorets and local historian and secretary treasurer, Trudy Harrold. Another survivor, Ellen Sledz, was also an active member of the group before she passed away in 2022.
Hrehorets was instrumental in spearheading the effort in 2021 to fundraise and erect two identical stone monuments honouring the 17 victims, 15 girls and two boys, who ranged in age from 15-18 years old.
While the accident happened in Lamont, all the victims were from Chipman. The memorial group eventu-
ally collected more than $95,000 in donations within seven months.
Hrehorets said the idea for the time capsule came from former Chipman resident Steven P. Eleniak, 93, who was also a member of the now dissolved Chipman historical society. Hrehorets said anyone wishing to contribute any items for the time capsule, such as photographs, letters or other paraphernalia, can reach any member of the memorial committee to make arrangements.
Hrehorets said the time capsule will be buried behind the accident victim’s monument in Lamont.
Time capsule expert burying his last capsule
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Former Chipman resident, Steven P. Eleniak, 93, will be assisting the Chipman Lamont Bus Train Memorial Committee in coordinating a time capsule, commemorating the 1960 tragedy, to be opened on the 100th anniversary of the crash on Nov. 29, 2060.
Eleniak has helped to bury 18 time capsules for various schools and organizations over the past 70 years and he said Lamont’s burial next year will be his last.
“I’m going to be retired, I’m not going to do it anymore,” he said.
Eleniak never set out to be the time capsule expert. He said it just happened.
“I have no competition,” he said laughing. “That’s why I’m the expert. There’s nobody else.”
Eleniak said he’s motivated by preserving history and, from the 18 time caspules he has so far helped to bury, been present for five of the openings. “It’s the preservation of a memory,
basically,” he said. “I get self satisfaction from seeing the people and families happy (about it).”
Eleniak first assisted with one for a small rural school in Peace River in the early 50s. He attended a school board meeting where the teacher proudly shared that she would have 38 graduating students that year and wanted to find a way to recognize the event.
“Apparently 38 was a pretty big number for Peace River and I said you should have the (students) write a letter to themselves, and we'll put it in a time capsule,” he said. “I said it more or less as a passing thought.”
The teacher thought it was a terrific idea.
After organizing the packing of a special box made by a local tin smith, with all the letters inside that the students wrote to their future selves, the box was buried in the North East corner of the school grounds, wrapped in tar paper. Twenty-four years later, Eleniak got a phone call from someone
in Peace River who was preparing to shred old school records.
“She said she was destroying old school records and found my calling card with ‘time capsule’ written on it,” he said.
After Eleniak told her the story, the woman became excited to find the capsule. Problem was, most of the school officials who were a part of the time capsule burial had since died and the school itself had been moved and was now being used as a granary. Eleniak offered to come and help her try to find it anyway.
“(The woman) was new to the area (and) didn’t know where it was. There is no sign of the school, there is no sign of the trees. There's no sign of anything (familiar),” said Eleniak.
Finally, after driving around, he thought he might have recognized the corner of the former school grounds and decided to call in some help; a friend with a magnetometer.
Continued on Page 6
Chipman Lamont Bus Train Memorial committee members stand in Chipman with one of two stone monuments commemorating the devastating accident in 1960 that took 17 young lives. L-R: Tom Hrehorets, John Winnick, Jeanette Winnick, Dianne Cossey and Tom Cossey. Photo: Trudy Smith
Tough questions flow around historic Bruderheim event
BY JANA SEMENIUK
Some residents in the town of Bruderheim wondered why they did not know ahead of time about the water reservoir ribbon cutting that took place on Nov. 15, with a get together afterwards at the fire station.
They did not get a cell phone alert from Voyant, a text message system alerting residents to town events, or see it in the Meteorite Monthly Town newsletter, or the Town’s social media, or the Lamont Leader.
Mayor Karl Hauch said it was a ‘historic event’ for the town and invited the Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen in addition to Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk to say a few words to the assembled guests and offer their congratulations.
The provincial government provided nearly $4 million in grant funding for the $4.9 million project that has been in the works since 2018.
One resident, Andrew Styles, said he found out about the event the day before from a Town staff member and called the Town office to see if it was true.
“The lady told me yes and that it was a public event,” he said.
Styles immediately put the word out on social media. The Lamont Leader was not notified by the Town beforehand.
Deputy Mayor George Campbell directed questions to the Chief Administrative Officer Phyllis Forsyth at the Nov. 20 council meeting on why there was no advertising during the planning of this major event and why people were asked at the gate if they were invited before being allowed in.
Homeniuk were present for the event. Photo: Jana Semeniuk
of Lamont Food Bank is accepting
Campbell for his question.
“Point taken, and we can move forward,” he said.
CAO Forsyth said council didn’t tell her to.
“I did not receive direction from council to have it as a public open house sir,” she said.
Deputy Mayor Campbell said she should have asked for clarity on the issue.
“Because there was also elected officials present and there was pre-planning done,” he said.
Mayor Karl Hauch thanked Deputy Mayor
“(This) shuts people out, leads to speculation, and it also leads to mistrust in the community,” he said. “Why was this event not advertised as an event that was open to all people in the community?”
Additionally, the Lamont Leader contacted Bruderheim Chief Operating Officer Dennis Tomuschat a few days ahead of the ribbon cutting, requesting a follow up interview on the nowcompleted water reservoir expansion.
Tomuschat said he would be out of town until after Nov. 18, however was present at the Nov. 15 ribbon cutting.
Tomuschat declined to provide a comment regarding the contradiction.
November 30th, 2024 1:00 pm ~ 8:00 pm
10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. AG Society Christmas Craft Market 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Sleigh Rides 3 p.m.
- The Lamont Leader (Lamont,
Highway interchange to be discussed at Mundare meeting
BY
JOHN MATHER
There will be an open house at the Mundare Recreation Centre from 4 to 7 p.m. Dec. 4 to discuss the current planning for the Highway 16 and 855 interchange. More information may be obtained at Highway15&16@alberta.ca
The Highway 16 and Highway 15 /Highway 855 is a rural highway intersection south of the Town of Mundare, in Lamont County.
It has been the site of operational and safety concerns over the past decade, which has prompted multiple studies to address ongoing issues.
Despite recent intersection enhancements,
including median acceleration lanes, the intersection continues to experience constraints and safety issues.
The safety concerns, in combination with continued growth in the area and long-term plans for
highway upgrades, has caused the Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors Department to initiate functional planning for a future interchange at this location.
The interchange plan will define the right-ofway required, address access management, minimize and mitigate environmental impacts, utility crossings and provide for an efficient interchange design, with safety benefits.
Opinion
Public transparency suffers in some municipalities
BY JOHN MATHER
There’s a television commercial, being aired right now for the job site Indeed. It features a recording studio executive whose sound engineer is leaving the job.
The dialogue goes something like this, “Your sound engineer is leaving. You need indeed.” The recording executive replies, “Indeed I do.”
Some local municipal administrations really need to hire a sound engineer. In this lovely age of government transparency at all levels of government, some municipalities take it to a new level.
Some have installed video and sound systems so the public, many unable to attend the meeting in person, can sit in at home at their leisure and see what their municipality is doing.
This is a very good idea.
But when the sound quality is just terrible it defeats the purpose of the system.
And these systems cost taxpayer dollars!
The problem with these systems falls directly on the shoulders of the CAOs of their respective municipalities.
Council wants the systems operating well so municipal transparency is loud and clear.
Now that won’t stop ratepayers who would oppose just about anything, or maybe don’t have a great understanding of the Municipal Act or how the municipal processes work.
But, and this is a huge but, having a very solid broadcast system for the municipalities is essential.
The municipalities have plunged down the rabbit hole to install these systems therefore it is incumbent on them to make sure they serve the purpose by being clear in the audio and video departments.
How difficult is it for a staffer to sound check the systems prior to each meeting? They can quickly cross the street, log in from an adjacent facility, and do a sound check.
But for some reasons, CAOs aren’t directing this to be done - at least it doesn’t appear to be the case. There is a problem and it should be fixed.
CONTINUED
And if there is a major ongoing problem, which with some municipalities there seems to be, contact neighbouring communities and see what system they are using and why their systems work so well.
Don’t hire consultants, don’t spend more money on upgrades. First, just find out why one municipality can do something properly, when your municipality can’t.
On another transparency point, both Bruderheim and Lamont County wanted to modify codes of conduct to make reporters or the public (newspaper, radio or television reporters covering councils do represent the public) receive permission before recording a public meeting.
According to a legal site on the internet, while this can legally be done, “there are no federal, provincial or territorial laws preventing a person from making a public recording at a meeting. Therefore it is not against the law to make such a recording.
“As a public actor, a municipality is subject to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and its potential (procedure) bylaw preventing the use of recording devices could be scrutinized by a court within a constitutional framework.”
Last spring Bruderheim tried to pass such a restriction but it was narrowly defeated by a 4-3 vote. The mayor was in favour of banning recordings of a public meeting in person even though it would be live streamed where anybody could record it.
The CAO stated at the time she thought it would prevent scams that could involve voice manipulation.
I suppose that could happen, although why someone would manipulate the voice of a small municipal councillor or a CAO is beyond me.
Media records meetings for accuracy. It keeps both us (the reporters) and the councillors honest.
If a councillor argues he/she didn’t say what was recorded, the voice recording will offer up the truth.
The Bruderheim motion was defeated on first reading of the bylaw and Lamont County which recently tried to have permission of media obtained from the CAO before recording a meeting was also shot down by council.
As municipalities have the ability to record meetings to accurately put together minutes, so too should the media be able to.
In fact I don’t know anyone who actually transcribes in Pitman Shorthand anymore. Everything is recorded.
Also in Lamont County, the CAO wants the council to shut their cellphones off during meetings and not receive or respond to texts or emails. This is bad because members of the community are watching online and if they have a question of clarity for their councillor they can reach out during debate for an answer.
It doesn’t disturb the meeting but can provide clarification. It can even be a method to let a councillor know the municipal sound system isn’t working! And if councillors must close down their electronic communication, then so should the administration. The CAO in Lamont County often states he has received an email from a department official to help clarify or add input to a discussion council is having.
In that case what’s good for the goose should be good for the gander.
Local municipal council is the closest the public gets to their elected officials. These officials are more approachable than provincial or federal counterparts. They shouldn’t be blocked by unelected bureaucracy stifling those lines of communication
Kerry Anderson Publisher John Mather Reporter Jana Semeniuk Reporter Crystal Moren
BY HAZEL ANAKA
This week is a stream of consciousness flow of disparate ideas and topics of varying importance.
If you loved Ted Danson as bartender Sam Malone in Cheers or as the titular doctor in Becker, you’ll love him in the new Netflix series, Man on the Inside. Here
FROM WHERE I SIT: If You Can Wait…
is a guy who’s maintained a long, successful show biz career by playing ‘not the brightest bulb on the tree’ characters. If you’re as old as I am and/or as skilled at remembering useless tidbits of info, you’ll remember when his boyish good looks were in jeopardy as he began balding. It was shocking to have a guy in the public eye so openly do something about it. If I remember correctly, he got a hair transplant and today still sports a full head of silvery white hair. The show is pure entertainment and some days that’s all you really
need. Looks like we may save a few bucks on Christmas items if the House of Commons members can get their act together and act for the good of the people. Of course, like all government announcements labeled good news stories, the devil is buried deep in the details. If your shopping list focuses on healthy foods, you’re out of luck. The GST savings only applies to junk food categories. And booze and a Christmas tree and a … …. And it ends on Valentine’s Day. If you can afford to eat out in
Lamont and Area
restaurants or do take outs, it’ll help. Likewise, if you buy diapers.
Some analysts I’ve heard, say the GST forgiveness measures should have happened 2 years ago and should be permanent. Cleary, it takes time to grind out new legislation but having this (possibly) go into effect just 10 days before Christmas is cutting it close, especially for those people who space out their purchases to prevent shocks to their finances.
Of course, anyone who qualifies for the $250 cheque per employed person, will grab the money and run. Apparently the $6 Billion cost of the measures covers both the cheque rollout and the GST forgiveness. An estimated 18 million Canadians will get the moola. Critics point out that seniors, the unemployable, and the ~30% of young people who are unemployed will be out of luck. If you earn over $149,000 per year, you’re also out of luck. What isn’t clear is if self-employed people (like me, farmers, elected officials, and others in this huge category) will qualify when the fine print is revealed.
The hope of the government is that we’ll all be so darn grateful they noticed the financial suffering --took them long enough---that we’ll flock to the ballot boxes and chose accordingly. I wouldn’t bet on that personally. The anger and disgust with Trudeau’s Liberals are deeply entrenched and most of us can’t be bought with our own (borrowed) money. Because the government is not in a surplus position, these goodies will balloon the deficit to about $48 Billion. It’s gonna take a lot of bottle drives and bake sales for our great, great grandchildren to pay that sucker off.
Recently I spent several happy hours browsing at the Rocky Mountain Antique Mall in Edmonton. It was especially satisfying because I was armed with a gift certificate from last Christmas. If you’ve never been to a place like this, you’re missing a trip down memory lane. It’s definitely more fun spending someone else’s money. But, even if you never crack your wallet open, it’s the most fun you’ll ever have ‘just looking.’ It’s also instructive about what types of
items are on offer. Even among antiques there are fads and trends. For a while crockery, coal oil lamps, power pole insulators, tobacco cans and more were hot, hot, hot. Now, vintage wooden sewing boxes are very hot, very expensive. You may have had one; I know I did. They were the ones with the two halves that open up revealing three tiers of storage per side. For 60 bucks, you can one n 2024. Or, if you have $25,000 you can buy a gorgeous wooden fivesection wall-to-wall retail displayer, with glass-front drawers and showcase features. It never hurts to ask for the best price a vendor is willing to accept. Many vendors will consider an offer on sales over $100; I managed to get a 15% discount on five books from a vendor I’ve supported before. And $45 off a bigger, more expensive purchase from another booth. Or, if you can wait until after December 14th you could stay at home watching Netflix while consuming GSTfree beer and salty snacks while awaiting our government’s largesse, from where I sit.
Thursdays at 8:00 pm
From the files of the Lamont Leader
Dec. 13, 2005 edition of The Lamont Leader: Bruderheim residents took to the streets Dec. 10 to watch the Santa Claus Parade, followe by the skating party.
Time capsule expert
After two and a half hours of walking back and forth with the magnetometer across the grassy land, Eleniak was elated when they finally found what they were looking for.
“In 24 years, things have changed. But we did find the box,” he said.
The tar paper, wrapped around the tin box, was nearly all rotted away. But the contents inside were safe and sound, albeit slightly discoloured with age.
Some of the letters also cracked along their folded edges but were otherwise still readable.
They found 34 of the 38 graduates from that class who all came to read their letters. The students were now married with children of their own who were grown or nearly grown.
The former graduating students were anxious to read their letters.
“It was very emotional. Most of them were so nervous they could hardly open their letters,” said Eleniak, adding there were some tears when they did.
“They had a heck of a time reading them. Some of them cried. The nice thing was most of them wanted to remain farming, four became engineers and six became nurses,” he said. “They lived their dreams from high school. “
93-year-old former Chipman resident Steven P. Eleniak, time capsule expert, will be assisting with one final time capsule burial next Nov. in Lamont before retiring.
Photo: Jana Semeniuk
Meanwhile, Eleniak said he was happy to have attended five openings over the years, but felt his attendance at the events were not that important.
“The important thing
to me is, is the people participating, that's their big day. That, to me, is my reward,” he said.
“They're happy with it, and now they can bury it again for another 25 years. It's a continuous family venture type of thing, the way I look upon it.”
Killam Chamber of Commerce Presents
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
CHRISTMAS Crossroads at the MainStreetKillam
FREE KIDS MOVIE LIVING ROOM THEATRE 2 PM PICTURES WITH SANTA LIVING ROOM THEATRE 4-6:30 PM festival OF trees/gingerbread display
LIVING ROOM THEATRE 4-7PM, Vote for your favourite - proceeds to Food Bank PARADE OF LIGHTS 7PM COOKIE DECORATING FCAL 4-7 PM LETTERS TO SANTA & FOOD BANK DROP-OFF ATB 5-7PM
family christmas crafts KILLAM LIBRARY 4:30-6:30PM
BONFIRE HOSTED BY A2Z SAFETY BESIDE GUARDIAN DRUGS 5-8PM
faCE PAINTING BALL FAMILY DENTAL 5:30-7PM
CHRISTMAS GOODIES KILLAM SENIORS CENTRE 5-7PM hot chocolate THE COMMUNITY PRESS 5-7PM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
craft fair COMMUNITY HALL 10AM - 3PM festival OF trees/gingerbread display
LIVING ROOM THEATRE 10-3, Vote for your favourite - proceeds to Food Bank NAZARENE YOUTH CHRISTMAS CONCERT 6PM
LIVING ROOM THEATRE - OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - ADMISSION BY DONATION
2024 Winter Machinery & Feed Consignment Auction
BETWEEN THE BOARDS
BY MELISSA
MACINTOSH-YOUNG
It was a quite weekend, across the board, for minor hockey with only three games played.
U18 Wild beat Mannville/Irma 8-6 on Friday night. Will Furey had a hat trick, Rowan Young had 1g and 1a, Kayden Winslow 3a, Xavier Storr 1g and 1a, Nicklas Mehlenbacher 2a, Logan Jesso 1g, Gage Brenton 1g, Shay Gushue 1a, Camo Olechow 1a, Ashton Strickland 1a and Matthew Iverson 1a.
Goalie Sandy McDonald had 78 shots fired on his net in the win.
U13 Wild played two games against Thorhild Titans. First game, on Saturday, was a 4-1 loss.
The only goal was scored by Mary Sobkow. Tyson Jonker had one assist. Their second game, on Sunday, resulted in a 6-3 win. Jonas Wytrykush scored 2g and 1a, Sawyer Hanson netted 2g, Denton Holowach had 1g and 1a, Mary Sobkow 1g, Desiree Storr 1a, Quinn Dickinson 1a and Jace Zanatta 1a. This week’s “Player of the Week” shout out goes to U9B Wild player Kolt Dowhaniuk. Kolt has been trying out being a goalie. He has been doing an excellent job and gives it his all. He can pop up and down into a defensive position and stop a goal like no other. Great job Kolt!
As the holiday season approaches, many communities are searching for ways to celebrate while minimizing their environmental impact.
The Bruderheim AG Society hosted a Christmas Reduce, Reuse Recycle market at the Community Hall on Saturday, Nov. 16 giving residents a chance to sell, trade or give away Christmas items they no longer needed.
A Reduce, Reuse,
Recycle Christmas Market is a perfect opportunity to bring festive cheer and sustainability together. By focusing on eco-conscious practices, such markets can encourage thoughtful consumption and inspire greener holiday traditions. A Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Christmas Market doesn’t just celebrate the holidays; it fosters a sense of community, creativity, and care for the environment.
Gerry & Carol Palichuk; Johnny & Wendie; Grant & Hazel Hackett; Anonymous; Richard & Sharon Johnston; John & Doreen Homeniuk; In Memory of Daniel, John & Jonathan Patan & Thomas Kowal; Steve & Stella Stodola; Bob & Brenda Melnyk; Barb Tessier, Robert & Debbie Tessier; Laurie & Julian Woldanski; Marshal & Zenia Maydanski; Anonymous; The Little Things - Deanna Ruether; Zennia Trollope; In Loving Memory of Louise Moren; Dave Fedun; Oscar OS Pederson; Oscar BJ Pederson; Tom & Mae Adamyk; Jim Antoniuk; Nickie Antoniuk; Wayne Antoniuk; Gale Antoniuk; Adeline Antoniuk; Wayne & Lorraine Field; David & Mary Boyko; Peter & Emily Kostiuk; Lamont River Rats Snowmobile Club; Mary-ann & Milton Holowach; Ron & Debbie Tresham;
Player of the week, U9B goalie Kolt Dowhaniuk.
AIHA signs agreement with South Korean equivalent
BY JOHN MATHER
Alberta’s Industrial Heartland Association has signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea’s Ulsan Free Economic Zone Authority to foster economic growth. `The agreement was signed in Fort Saskatchewan, Nov. 25.
The MOU establishes a Kyungsik Lee framework for: joint research and development initiatives; knowledge sharing and technical expertise exchange; and collaboration on low-carbon industrial development and hydrogen economy.
Ulsan Free Economic
Zone is a key industrial hub in South Korea, specialized in automotive, shipbuilding, petrochemicals, and emerging green industries.
The zone offers strategic advantages for international businesses seeking to establish operations in Northeast Asia.
“This partnership between Alberta’s Industrial Heartland and Ulsan Free Economic Zone Authority represents a milestone in international industrial cooperation,” said Mark Plamondon, executive director of Alberta's Industrial Heartland Association. “By com-
Lamont County Reeve and chair of the Alberta Industrial Heartland Association David Diduck, right, poses with Kyungsik Lee, Commissioner of Ulsan Free Economic Zone Authority in South Korea Nov. 25.
Parcel #1 - Consisting of the SE 36-53-18 W4M
Being 160 Acres M/L
Pasture Land Fence with Page Wire, Single Strand Barb Wire & A Dug Out.
Located North of Hwy #16 on Rge Rd
180 for 5 Kms. West Side of the Road
bining our strengths in energy, petrochemicals, and sustainability tech-
nology, we're creating new opportunities for investment and innova-
tion in both regions.”
His comments were echoed by Kyungsik Lee,
Real Estate Auction for Ducks Unlimited
Parcel #2 - Consisting of the NW 7-55-17 W4M
Being 148.95 Acres M/L
Currently Seeded to Alfalfa, New 4 Strand Barb Wire Fence Around the Perimeter of the Property.
Beautiful Mostly Open Quarter that does have a Subdivision out the NW Corner, a Good Shelter Belt, Ample Wildlife, Does Have a Few Sloughs That Would Work as a Water Sources, on the SE Corner of TWP Rd 552 & Rge Rd 180
Located 8.7 Kms North of Hwy #15, 20 Kms North of Hwy #16, East Side of the Road.
Parcel #3 - Consisting of the SW 25-55-18 W4M
Being 160 Acres M/L
Seeded to Alfalfa/Grass, Can be Hay/Pasture Land, Old Yard Site, One Flat Bottom Grainary, New 4 Strand Barb Wire.
Located On the Corner of Rge Rd 181 & Hwy 29 with 1/2 a Mile of Hwy. Frontage
Parcel #4 - Consisting of the SE 35-55-18 W4M Being 160 Acres M/L A Very Nice Open Quarter with Dugouts, Brand New 4 Strand Barb Wire Fence, Seeded to Alfalfa/Grass, Excellent Hay or Pasture Land.
Located 1.7 Kms North of Hyw #29 on Rge Rd 181
Commissioner of Ulsan Free Economic Zone Authority.
Lamont set to become Winter Wonderland
BY JOHN MATHER
Lamont turns into a Christmas Wonderland this Saturday as it hosts its annual Christmas Light Up.
The Lamont Christmas Light Up starts Nov. 30 with a holiday market at the high school gym which will begins at 11 a.m. and run until 4 p.m.
Numerous activities get underway beginning at noon with most concluding between 3 and 5 p.m.
The North Pole at Beaverhill Pioneer Lodge will feature a silent Santa and then from 1:30 until 4:30 there will be pictures taken with Santa Claus.
A Dog Biscuit decorating and cat toy workshop will take place from 12 until 4 at the Price Automotive Building and there will be an animal rescue event as well.
An Afternoon of Music will accompany the Festival of Trees displays at the Lamont Hall from noon until 4:45. People are encouraged to drop by, have some coffee and a cookie and vote for their favourite tree while listening to festive music, choirs and bands.
The County of Lamont Food Bank will be the beneficiary of the Fill-ABus event at the Lamont Foods parking lot from noon until 4 p.m. This event will also be the site of a mitten tree at the store from noon until 5 p.m
Hungry yet? Well there is a perogy and sausage lunch at Lamont United Church from noon until 2 p.m. and there will also be a Kid’s Christmas Craft at the same site.
The Lamont Ladies Auxiliary will hold a
bake sale at the Lamont Hall lobby.
Lamont Fish and Game will have a meal of hot dogs and hot chocolate at the Lions Den from noon until 4 p.m. and there will be cookie decorating at the Robert Mitchell Fire Hall in the meeting room from 1 until 3. People can also catch a ride on a fire truck from noon until 4:30 p.m.
The Lamont Curling Club will be the site of some fun curling action from 12 until 4:30 p.m. Kids under 18 must wear helmets to participate.
At the Lamont County building in the foyer there will be Christmas card crafts sponsored by Lamont County FCSS and FRN from 2:30 until 4:30.
The Just for Kids Christmas store will be in the Lamont Hall meet-
ing room from noon until 3 p.m with gifts ranging in price from $1.00 to $10.00.
And then head to the parking lot between the town office and county building where you can sing carols and have a free kubie burger around the outdoor fire pits.
Enjoy the fireworks and watch as Santa lights up the Winter Wonderlights at 5 p.m.
The Lamont Lions Club will be hosting hayrides through the streets of Lamont from noon until 4 p.m. and after the Light Up event and Santa has left on a fire truck, Tom Hrehorets will act as MC as a bus does an “Aventour” around Lamont to view the abundance of home and business decorations.
Unreserved Real Estate Sale for Garth & Darlene Fleming Sale Starts December 6th & Closes on December 9th, 2024 Holden, Alberta
Directions: From Hwy 14 Go 3 1/2 Miles South On Rg Rd 163, West 1/2 Miles to Corner of Twp Rd 490 & Rg Rd 164
Selling A Beautiful Half Section Of Mixed Farm Land Located Just South of Holden Parcel #1 - Consisting Of the NW-33-48-16-W4M - Being 160 Acres
M/L - Beautiful, Mostly Open Land Currently Having 63 Acres Cultivated, 97 Acres being Pasture Land & Few Trees with a Creek Running Through The North East Corner. Surface Lease Road & Lease Site That Currently Has A Yearly Revenue of $3600.00/Year. With Some Work There Is An Opportunity For Many Of the Pasture Acres To Become Cultivated.
Parcel # 2 - Consisting Of The SW-33-48-16-W4M - Being 160 Acres M/L - Beautiful, Mostly Open land, Currently Having 50 Acres Cultivated, 110 Acres Being Pasture Land & A Few Trees, Dug Out, Also A Former Yard Site. Quarter Is Fenced & Cross Fenced, With Some Work There Is An Opportunity For Many Of The Pasture Acres to Become Cultivated.
Please Contact Garth @ 780-868-4181 For
On Wednesday, November 13th, Christmas light decor was being raised in the Town of Lamont in preparation for the holiday season. In the bucket is Bob Starko with his bucket truck, and on the ground is Rick Malowany, Town of Lamont employee.
Crystal Moren photo.
Coyote Christmas held at Chipman
BY TRUDY SMITH
Saturday had a lot of events going on in the Village of Chipman.
The long running
Coyote Christmas dinner and craft show was a busy place like it has been for over 10 years. Craft sale during the
day with hot dogs and hamburgers available during the day, and turkey with all the trimmings in the evening.
Lisa, Pat, Scott, Bruce, Diann and Tom were busy working on the Turkey.
The Golden Senior
Christmas season begins throughout region
Bruderheim and Lamont celebrate this weekend
BY JOHN MATHER
Christmas activities begin in earnest around the Lamont County region this weekend and all the following weekends, as it moves toward December and then towards Dec. 25. In Bruderheim on Saturday, Nov, 30 the Starlight Wonderfest will go all day.
Activities begin with a Christmas Craft Market form 10 a.m. until 3:30. Sleigh rides will be held around the town from 1 p.m.until 3 p.m.
There will be a Santa’s Holiday Hunt from 3 until 4 p.m. and then a Family Bingo from 4 p.m until 5:30 p.m.
Face painting will occur from 5 to 7 p.m and people can get pictures with Santa from 5:30 to 7 p.m. or photos with the family pet from 5 p.m. to 5:30. There will be a craft
and a Santa letter writing event from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.and then sit down and enjoy a Mac and Cheese dinner with bun from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. As dinner is served, the Fort Saskatchewan Community Band will play.
There will be an ice cream and candy table following dinner from 7 to 7:45 followed by a family dance from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Meanwhile in Mundare, December 7 is the day of the Christmas Extravaganza in the community.
Taking place at the Mundare Recreation Centre the day will feature a huge bake sale, a Christmas Market and Concession.
These events run from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.
From noon until 3 p.m there will be bonfires in front of the town office along with sleigh rides.
Step inside and you can get a Christmas ornament picture with Santa Claus.
Also taking place on Dec. 7 there will be a Christmas in the Country market at the St. Michael Recreation Centre from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
This event will be a fundraiser for the St. Michael Agricultural Society and the Chipman 4-H Beef and Multi club. It will also be a site for collecting donations for the County of Lamont Food Bank.
Vendors wishing to take part should contact Crystal McCullough at 780-231-7180 or chipman4H@gmail.com
On Saturday, Lamont turns into a Christmas Wonderland hosting its annual Christmas Light Up. See page 9 for all the details on a fun filled day.
Centre was the place to find exceptionally nice Christmas decorations.
Kristal needed a large area to hold her estate sale, and the Senior Centre worked perfectly,
This event was on for Saturday and Sunday. Sunday was also the annual Memorial Service for the Train crash victims.
Are you tired of your current environment and looking for a change?
Do you want to work in a tight-knit rural community for an honest, prosperous Company?
If you possess leadership qualities, are full of energy, very well organized, a highly motivated individual, represent excellent communication skills, enthusiasm, and love helping customers and thrive on solving mechanical problems, WE NEED TO TALK!
We offer a clean, fun, safe, and warm environment to work in. Competitive pay plan. Benefits package. Apply by resume Attention Wes, in person at Campbell McLennan Chrysler in Killam or by fax 780-385-3803 or email wcampbell@cmchrysler.ca or Gerry Keyzer Service Manager at service@cmchrysler.ca
Elves attend to the turkey at the Coyote Christmas in Chipman. Trudy Smith photo.
CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS
COMING EVENTS
Kingman Community Fundraiser
Lutefisk Supper
Kingman Hall
December 6, 2024
Noon seating by reservation: 12 noon - 1:30pm (780) 662-3829
Evening Seating 4:30 - 7:30 pm
Adults $40 each, Children under 12, $15 each.
Lutefisk, Swedish Meatballs, Lefse, Flatbread, Desserts.
Round Hill Christmas Market. Monday, December 9th from 5-7 pm. For a free table, text or call Terry 780678-6131
The Lougheed Agricultural Society invites you to supper at 6 pm on December 2 at the Fieldhouse in appreciation for volunteering at our events, may your contribution be large or small it is greatly valued. Without volunteers the board would be unable to hold events. Please let us know if you can attend call 780-385-0752. Following at 7 pm we will be holding our Annual General Meeting, please stay if you wish to see our plans for 2025 and provide some insight to what you may like to see happen.
Celebrate the New Year at the Alliance Community Hall. Dec 31 . Fun, Food and Favors for the 3whole family. $40 each, $75 couple, $100 family (one household)
Music by The River Jacks, Call 780 385-1483 or 780 879 2158 for tickets.
Sedgewick Farmers Bonspiel Dec 10-13th. Late afternoon/evening draws with meals provided. Mens/Ladies/Mixed welcome!
Call (780)385-4501
Viking Seniors Centre Christmas Dinner Sunday, December 1 $25 per person. RSVP before Nov. 28 to Audrey at 780-336-2678.
Entertainment by Bob Williams Doors open 5pm. Supper 6pm. Entertainment 7pm.
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas A Christmas Pagent & Concert at the Sedgewick SDA Church December 7 at 6 p.m.
Luncheon to Follow Everyone Welcome! 48c
COMING EVENTS
Killam/Forestburg Baptist Church Christmas Banquet
Sunday, December 8 at the Killam Community Hall
Doors open at 5 p.m. Supper at 5:30 p.m Concert at 6:30 p.m. with Daddy-Daughter roots duo Ben and Jessica Crane For tickets please call 780-385-3607
Adults $25, ages 12-17 years $20, under 12 years FREE
FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2024 AUCTION PROGRAM: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Toll-Free 1-800-694-2609, Email Us at sales@switzersauction.com or Visit Us @ www.switzersauction.com.
Order of the Eastern Star Forestburg Chapter is hosting a Soup/Chilli Luncheon
Monday, November 25 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Masonic Hall Basement in Forestburg. $10/Lunch
VIKING
HEALTH CENTRE AUXILIARY
CHRISTMAS MARKET
Thursday, December 5 11 am to 5 pm
Viking Community Hall Lunch available for purchase Great Christmas ideas, Crafts, Baking, Gifts, Décor & more To reserve table, call Kim 780-385-0902
Viking United Church Candlelight Service
December 1, 7:00 pm
Donation to Christmas Hamper Program (toys, food, money) Coffee & Dessert following service Everyone Welcome
Christmas is Coming!!
Viking Grad Class of 2025 is selling Christmas Greenery Red or White 6.5" Poinsettia $13 24" Wreath $38 Outdoor Arrangement $50 Contact your local graduate for more information OR contact Donna at 780-385-4809 or Erin Hollar at 780-336-6377
Pick-up is scheduled for December 5 & 6th at the Viking Carena or discuss possible delivery with your seller Hurry! Selling until November 18!
FOR RENT
Large, non-smoking 2 Bedroom Apartment in Killam. Call Chuck 780-263-7290
2 Bedroom House For Rent Near Hardisty. Small older home 2 kms out of town. Includes fridge, stove, microwave, washer & dryer. Recent reno’s. Very reasonable rate for the right person or couple. Call or text (780) 699-3449 for details
HARDISTY: 2 BR furnished house for rent available now. $1200 plus electricity. Call or text 780-717-6783
SEED FOR SALE
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.
FOR SALE
Affordable, maintenance-free 12’x12’ deck with attached ramp and two steps. (Buyers responsibility to move - must be gone by the spring). Call Brian at 780-678-0053
If anybody is looking for Pepper Seeds in different varieties (mostly sweet), Brian has some. As well, if you are looking for Flower Pots, Hanging Baskets, or Window Boxes, Brian has many different sizes available. All Washed and Disinfected. 780-6780053
BUILDINGS FOR SALE
INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-9747678 www.integritybuilt.com.
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. 1-800347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.
Roy's Handyman Services. Flooring, trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work. Call 780-232-3097
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
Medical Taxi Service
Personal Taxi Service to Edmonton and Back -$175
•Office Hours Mon-Fri 9-5
•Absolutely NO Hidden Fees
•Escort to Reception/Waiting Room
•Pick up and Drop off at your door
•Top Notch Service!
•Includes up to 4 Hour Wait
•Locally Owned and Operated 587-987-7810
Drywall Taping/Ceiling Texturing 40 years experience on the job, from commercial buildings to new homes to home renovations. No job too small. Experienced Killam drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job, big or small. Don't want to do it yourself?Give me a call!
Flagstaff Taping & Texturing Murray Cholowsky Call or text at 780-385-1251
WANTED
CASH FOR COIN COLLECTIONS & COIN ACCUMULATION'S! Also buying all Gold, Silver, Old Jewelry, Nuggets, Sterling, Bullion, Ingots, Royal Canadian Mint Coins, Rare Coins +, Todd 780-504-7995.
Need to re-order:
•Company Forms? •Invoices?
•Envelopes? •Business Cards?
•Posters? •Bookmarks?
•Calendars?•Magnets? •Score Cards? •Stamps?
•Certificates?•Menus?
•Receipts?
•Letterheads? •Invitations?
LAMONT
lmtleader@gmail.com
Children hit the snow after 15 cm plus snowfall in Lamont County
Bruderheim residents enjoying the fun of playing pickleball
BY MELISSA MACINTOSH-YOUNG
The town of Bruderheim is offering free pickleball sessions to residents, to promote physical activity and foster community connections.
The initiative aims to provide a fun and inclusive environment for people of all ages and skill levels to learn and enjoy the rapidly growing sport.
Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the country due to its simplicity, accessibility, and social nature.
Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball is played on a smaller court than tennis, making it ideal for players of all ages and physical abilities.
Pickleball will be held on Thursday evenings at Bruderheim elementary school from 6:00 to 7:30pm.
The program will run on November 21, 28, January 9, 16, 23, 30, and February 13, 20, 27. Indoor footwear is required.
PICKLEBALL FUN
OPEN HOUSE
HIGHWAY 16 & HIGHWAY 15/855 Functional Planning Study
Alberta Transportation has retained McElhanney Ltd. to complete a functional planning study for the ultimate interchange configuration of Highway 16 and Highway 15/855near the Town of Mundare.
You are invited toview preliminary concepts and provide input onthe planning study at an open house on:
December 4, 2024 4 - 7 p.m.
Mundare Recreation Centre 5116– 50Avenue Mundare, Alberta
McElhanney representatives will be in attendance tooutline the project and answer questions.
For more information on the planning study, pleasecontact Ryan Betker at McElhanney Ltd. at (780) 809-3299or emailrbetker@mcelhanney.com
Luis Diaz and his three-year-old daughter Lucy ready for tobogganing. Jana Semeniuk photo.
Four year old Oliviane. Jana Semeniuk photo.
Seven year old Eliana. Jana Semeniuk photo.
Facilitator Councillor Arlie Young, Dana Akey, Barb Burger and Patti Grichen having friendly game of pickleball. Melissa MacIntosh-Young photo
BY MELISSA
MACINTOSH-YOUNG
The recent cribbage tournament fundraiser organized by Janice Bisch, for the Bruderheim Seniors Citizens Club, has been declared a resounding success, both in participation and in funds raised.
The event, held on November 16th, brought together cribbage enthusiasts for a day of friendly competition and community spirit.
Over 52 participants joined the tournament, which took place at the Bruderheim Senior Citizens Club. The cozy atmosphere was filled with laughter as players competed for bragging rights.
The event also featured a light lunch as well as door prizes. Bruderheim councillor, Len Falardeau generously donated two $50 cash door prizes, adding to the fun and fundraising efforts.
The tournament’s proceeds will go toward supporting the Seniors’ Club’s activities and programs.
Winners of the tournament were Phyllis Forsyth and Sherry Cote, who took home the grand prize of $210.
TOWN OF LAMONT
• 4712 51 St Lamont 5,800 sq ft shop with office and sales space. Shop was used for agricultural machinery repair. Price: $450,000
LAMONT COUNTY
• W4-20-55-27-SE Plan 1023701 Block 1 Lot 1A Lamont County. 138.09 acres in the Lamont Heartland for industrial use. Located North of Highway 15 on Range Road 202. Price: $2,990,00
• HWY 834 between HWY 16 and TWP RD 530 Lamont County 19.48 acres with power and a holding tank. Nice building site. Price: $215,000.00
VILLAGE OF ANDREW
• 5317-50 Ave Andrew. An 18,000 sq. ft. manufacturing shop with office and storage space on 2.3 acres of land Price: $1,700,000
VILLAGE OF CHIPMAN
• P E N D I N G W4-18-54-29-NE N 54466 A RR184 Village of Chipman 38.75 acres 25± acres in hay. Double car garage, power, septic, and well nice building site. Price: $289,900
STRATHCONA COUNTY
• SW Part of NW–23 –53 –23 –W4 40.55 acres North of Highway 16 on Range Road 232 in proposed medium industrial zoning with CP rail line at the border of the property. Price: $7,200,000
• Parts of SW and SE-7-53-22-W4 located at Highway 21 and Lakeland drive 63.62 acres of development land with Highway 21 exposure. The property is within the Bremner and local Employment Area ACP with expected future use of industrial. Price: $5,100,000
THORHILD COUNTY
• NW 1/4 -14-58-22-W4 and NE ¼ -14-58-22-W4 Plan 172-0793 Block 3 Lot 222 acres game farm with page wire 100 acres could be cultivated. 4 mile North of Redwater. Good HWY 28 access. Price: $690,000
Lauren Hill Steven Hill
Norman Hill
Above: Crib partners Allison Diaz and Jana Semeniuk wearing matching t-shirts, specially made for the tournament. Below: Tournament 1st Place winners, Phyllis Forsyth and Sherry Cote, took home $210.
Melissa MacIntosh-Young
Community Services: Serving Lamont County, Lamont, Bruderheim, Mundare, Andrew & Chipman
(VISIT: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming for full posters & locations, or call 780-895-2233 for info./registration). Current CALC, FCSS & KFRN and seniors activities:
1. KFRN: Grace In Progress: self-care program. Registration required by Dec. 5 at noon via signup.com/go/SSbUorV.
2. KFRN: Cooking With Your Littles: Join us to make a holiday treat! Registration is required by Dec. 5 at noon via signup.com/go/TXqevpz. Space is limited.
3. KFRN: Family Activity Night: Free program for ALL FAMILIES! No registration required for this program.
4. KFRN: Connecting Generations: Join us for crafts, singing Christmas carols, and a snack with our friends at Beaverhill Pioneer Lodge in Lamont. Registration is required by Dec. 16 at noon via signup.com/go/EmayFTL.
5. Youth Centres in Bruderheim (Tuesdays), Chipman (Mondays), and Mundare (Thursdays TEMPORARILY CLOSED) – contact Dayna.J@lamontcounty.ca for more info. Parents and Tots: Bruderheim (Thursdays from 10-11 a.m. at Karol Maschmeyer Arena) and Mundare (Tuesdays from 9:15-10:15 a.m. at the Mundare Admin. Building) - contact Melissa.S@lamontcounty.ca for more info. (Note: programs follow the school calendar.)
6. Fitness Fun for Older Adults: $10 per session. At Mundare Seniors Centre. Contact
7. Yoga for Older Adults: $12 per session. At Lamont Arena Mtg. Room. Contact Michelle.A@lamontcounty.ca for information.
8. CALC: My Journey…Who Am I? (register at 780-895-2233 x233/241 or Cheryl.B@lamontcounty.ca | Cody.O@lamontcounty.ca)
9. CALC: English Language Learning (register with Cheryl/Cody). 10. CALC: Kitchens Program (register with Cheryl/Cody).
11. CALC: Digital Skills for Seniors: Thurs. fr.10-11 a.m. (Mundare & Andrew).
12. Snow Angels Program (volunteers needed): contact Michelle.A@lamontcounty.ca or 780-895-2233x223, (honorarium for volunteers).
13. Lamont Light Up! 2024 – Join us on November 30, 2:30-4:30 p.m., at the Lamont County Admin. Building, for paper crafting. We will be making Christmas cards and gift tags. No registration req.
14. Seniors’ Coffee: (Wed.) 10-11 a.m. at Andrew Lions Club, & (Thurs.) 10-11 a.m. at Mundare Sr. Centre. Join FCSS for coffee, conversation, snacks, & assistance with senior-related forms/programming. FCSS also offers Seniors Supports from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Mundare (Thurs.) –for more information contact Michelle.A@lamontcounty.ca
15. Seniors Bus trips: $15 per person per round trip – Dec. 12. Call Helen at 780-895-7539 to reserve a spot (departs from Lamont Rec. Centre).
Access current monthly services & programs information scan the QR code or for FCSS, CALC and KFRN on each of the services’ Facebook pages. For more info, scan the QR code: lamontcounty.ca/community-programming | FCSSlamontcountyregion | KFRN: groups/1922602184662497 & kalynafrn.ca | CALC: LamontCountyAdultLearns | |
Tax Installment Payment Plan Reminder: Lamont County offers taxpayers the ability to pay property taxes in monthly installments by pre-authorized withdrawals rather than one single payment. Sign up before December 31. Sign up for regional (emergency) notifications by email/text/phone: lamontcounty.ca/alerts (Everbridge alerts/not the AB Emergency Alert system that interrupts your phone; rather, it is updates for significant local events/activities such as major traffic/water/fire incidents, etc.).
Managing fusarium in cereals: Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a fungal disease of wheat (including durum), barley, oats, other small cereals grains and corn. When FHB infects cereal crops, it can produce mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON), commonly known as vomitoxin. as most importing countries have strict maximum limits of DON in grain, the presence of DON restricts the grain's end uses and marketing potential. To help keep marketing options open for your harvested grain Keep it Clean recommends the following practices to manage FHB. Best practices: (keepitclean.ca/5-tips/disease/fusarium-cereals).
Reminder: you can report road conditions or service needs with a Service Request at lamontcounty.ca/servicerequests (all phone, email and online submissions are entered into the same queue, online submissions may addressed faster during peak events and when phone lines are limited/extremely busy).
The County of Lamont Food Bank is accepting application for Christmas Hampers from Nov. 12 to Dec. 12. Please call 780-619-6955 to register or for more information. Pick up/delivery is Dec. 22.
The next scheduled ASB meeting is (Wednesday) December 11, 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.
Next Lamont County Council (Regular Council Meeting)
The next Regular Council Meeting is planned for Tuesday, December 10, starting at 9:00 a.m. The public is welcome to attend at the Lamont County Admin. Building or virtually through Microsoft Teams (link). A link to meetings, agendas and minutes can be found at: lamontcounty.ca/governance/agendas-minutes.
Please Note – inFocus is also available for viewing online at: www.lamontcounty.ca/communications (for those wanting to view the weekly submission as fullsized PDF and to access hyperlinks)
