September 28 Lamont Leader + 2022 Fall Section

This farmer East of Highway 45 near St. Michael, was helping his equipment along while harvesting in beautiful weather last week. Jana Semeniuk Photo.

EIPS Superintendent addresses parents at Andrew School town hall over roof repairs

BY JANA SEMENIUK

Approximately 60 Andrew residents and parents of Andrew School students came out to ask questions and hear the plan from Elk Island Public Schools

Superintendent Mark Liguori around possible repairs for the school roof during a public town hall held in the school gymnasium Sept. 20.

The metal roof, which not only covers Andrew School but also the village office and facilities, has sustained damage from ice over the past couple of years and leaks regularly.

Liguori opened the meeting with a history of the school, listing a number of additions to the original 1957 building that happened before it was handed over to EIPS during a forced amalgamation of school divisions in 1994.

He said the fire sup-

pression system, which is supposed to operate dry, was later found to be corroded.

“Prior to (the school) being handed over (to EIPS) by the order of Council, the (fire) system was charged with water. Having water in that system, although the water was drained out, at some point has caused corrosion in the system,” he said.

Liguori went on to explain that an examination of the fire suppression system uncovered issues with the roof as well, which experiences large amounts of icing on the west side entrance.

Liguori said that reports from engineers stated the roof was not properly constructed (being sloped incorrectly) nor was it properly insulated.

“It's primarily because the roof that you all see from the outside was simply installed over the

existing roof of the 1957 building,” he said.

Liguori said estimates for the fire suppression system have previously come in between three and $400,000, while a small portion of the roof was estimated at $900,000.

“But when we take a look at the whole (roof), in my humble opinion, it's going to be more than that,” he said.

Questions from the audience included; whether the school could possibly contain mold, whether EIPS will spend the money repairing the roof if they are planning on shutting the school down, and what the process would be moving forward.

Andrew School lost their high school and junior high school program over the past three years and currently sit as the most underutilized school in EIPS at 14 percent. Documents shared

with parents at the meeting showed current school enrollment at 63 as of Sept. 12.

Liguori insisted the school is safe and would not speculate on possible issues with mold, nor would he address parents’ concerns with a possible school closure over dwindling enrollment.

“I want this to steer clear of a conversation around school closure, because that's not what this is about. It's about

giving people a heads up that this is what we're going to do (repairs),” he said.

In an FAQ available for parents during the meeting, EIPS stated that ‘There has been no discussion at either the administrative or board level about closing Andrew School. As long as the building is viable, the community supports the elementary program and sufficient enrollment, the elementary program will remain

operational’.

In terms of moving forward, Liguori said he expects to have some solid information within 60 days.

“We will get the information; I would say within probably 60 days maximum. We'll have an estimate of costs, we will have met with council, we will have gone to the board, and the board will have the information required to make the best decision possible,” he said.

- The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, September 28, 2022

EIPS Superintendant Mark Liguori speaks to approximately 60 Andrew residents and School parents about roof repair issues at a town hall meeting in the school gymnasium Sept. 20. Photo: Jana Semeniuk

Beefing up 4-H

Chipman club takes on activities from motocross to cooking to increase membership

BY JANA SEMENIUK

The Chipman 4-H Club has beefed up its learning programs, hoping to increase membership and offer a better variety to the community.

During a Sept. 26 meet and greet at the Chipman National Hall, approximately 30 people came through the various displays to check out the new and old programs which include motocross, archery, photography, culinary and canine.

“People think that 4-H is primarily cows and goats,” said current member Crystal McCullough, whose

three children joined 4-H last year. “I had no idea my kids could do cooking through 4-H. They loved it.”

Current general leader Sharisse Rasmussen said the Chipman 4-H became a multi-club, offering different programs verses strictly a beef club, after several other local 4-H clubs have had to shut their doors.

“There used to be seven other clubs here at one time. Now Chipman is the only one left in the Lamont district,” she said, adding the Chipman 4-H Club is entering its 78th year.

Rasmussen explained that 4-H offers kids a chance to learn by doing, and the experience is positive for youth.

“It’s the experience (they get),” she said. “When I was a kid everybody thought 4-H was (just) agriculture, as you can see by our culinary, archery, motocross, that it has moved substantially from agriculture. And that is because we're looking to bring in more urban kids, because 4-H isn't just dwindling here, it is dwindling, everywhere.”

Rasmussen said there is still time to sign up online.

Approx. 30 parents and children attended the Chipman 4-H Meet and Greet Sept. 26 at the Chipman National Hall checking out the various displays showing old and new programming offered for children.

Photo: Jana Semeniuk

Opinion

Singh sings a sad song of ineptitude

BY JOHN MATHER

So Jagmeet Singh, our de facto deputy prime minister, has ruled out working with newly minted Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre claiming his priorities are “diametrically opposed” to the Conservative leader's.

Wow! What a surprise.

Jagmeet, the NDP leader, who has already thrown his party under the bus with his ill-conceived  love agreement with the Trudeau Liberals to prop up the lame, corrupt government until 2025, probably hasn’t been offered the right price to agree with Poilievre.

And he won’t be.

If there’s one thing Poilievre doesn’t need as he prepares to become the leader of the Government of Canada, it’s a fawning posseur clinging to his robes.

And that’s all Singh is!

“I don’t see a way to work together with someone who is so fundamentally opposed to making life better for people,” said Singh while fielding questions from reporters last week.

“It’s clear that his priorities are very different. He has sided with wealthy CEOs (and against) the idea of making them pay their fair share or pay what they owe. We believe that CEOs should pay what they owe.”

Well Jagmeet, tell that to your buddy, former CAW president Jerry Diaz, who was dumped for accepting a $50,000 payout from vaccine brokers.

And whisper it in the ear of your BMW dealer while you’re getting a wash and wax on your gas guzzler which shows your dedication to the green movement.

Or maybe you should tell the furniture dealer who gave you that nice $1,900 rocking chair when you child was born in exchange for some promotion on Instagram. In fairness, you did eventually pay for the chair when you were caught outright.

The NDP recently launched an attack ad aimed at Poilievre. The video asks, “Who is the real Pierre Poilievre?” and claims that he’s a “friend of big business and the corporate elite.”

But on the face of it, I’m pretty sure it’s obvious to anyone with an IQ of more than half a dozen, Poilievre and his Venezulean born wife Ana have more working class background than Singh - who grew up with a silver spoon inserted in his mouth or some other part of his body.

CONTINUED

Letter: Unsafe equestrian trail head needs upgrade

To the Editor:

This letter regards the unsafe conditions at the equestrian trail head at the Blackfoot Lake Staging Area.  For those not familiar with the area, it is south of Highway 16 on RR 195 in Lamont County.

My wife and I are just two of the many horse owners in the Capital Region that trailer our horses to that staging area.  We consider it a privilege to live close to, and be able to enjoy such a beautiful trail system.

Trail maintenance over the 15 years we have been riding there has been good.  To this day the trails there are in great shape.  However the equestrian trail head, which leads to a shared access trail, is currently and has been flooded for most of the past two summers, rendering it unsafe to travel thru on foot or on horseback.  This needs to be fixed!  If this request is

untenable, then how about removing the “No Horses Permitted” signs from the other trail head?  Most equestrian users are, for the lack of other safe access points, using this trail entrance now and have been for quite some time.  Most non-equestrian users are polite and understanding when they encounter horse and rider in areas prohibited for such use.  But it is only a matter of time before there is a conflict and or an injury to a person or horse.

Secondarily, RR 195 to the Blackfoot Lake Staging area was completely closed for over a year and currently displays a restriction sign limiting trailer weight to 50 per cent.  This made sense when the road sustained damage from flooding.  The road is now in the best condition it has been in years, and most equestrian users are ignoring this ongoing restriction.  Yes

it is still wrong to do so, but these taxpayers are fed up with the limited access and lack of maintenance.

In closing, let me repeat that I respect our government and the impossible task of trying to meet the varying needs of Albertans.  But equestrian users have run out of patience and ask you to please remove the weight restrictions and repair the staging area trail head.  These improvements will help us remain in compliance with the rules and avoid conflict with other users.

Alberta is beautiful.  Let’s access some of that $13 billion surplus and add another wooden bridge to the Blackfoot Lake trail system or at least a few loads of gravel!

Respectfully, Kelly and Laurie Gordon

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CONTINUED

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No, face it Jagmeet, look in the mirror… no matter how

Pierre knows one of the ways to stifle the inflation that’s hurting this country is to stop giving government money to those people who have no interest in working yet feel the world owes them a living wage. Jagmeet embraces these people and his inept performance in the House of Commons would seem to indicate he wants to be more like them.

many times you wax on about how you couldn’t work with Poilievre when he forms the next government, just keep in mind nobody is going to ask you to.

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BY HAZEL ANAKA

Combining means staying ever vigilant. Don’t plug the combine. Be careful how you approach a wind scattered swath; turn the pickup speed way down and creep into it. Keep an eye on the gauges and don’t let the combine overheat. Use all your senses to smell a belt that’s burning, hear a change in noise level, or see something not looking right.

`Our John Deere combines are old; but I get to operate the better, hydrostatic one. But it’s squishy in the cab. Even in the lowest seat position my feet don’t comfortably touch the floor. There’s almost no space for the lunch kit and water bottles. I wish the wiper blades were longer so they covered more of the windshield when I

turn them on to remove some dust. I wish the radio picked up more stations but after some years of only static, I’m not really complaining.

It takes a conscious effort to try to work in a ‘body neutral’ position. Don’t cross my feet at the ankles. Remember to lower those shoulders when they creep up near my ears. I try to give my neck a break by looking off to the horizon rather than staring down at the header for hours. I do neck stretches to relieve the boredom. I move the steering column as close as I can get it so I’m not having to lean forward to reach for the steering wheel. I loosen my grip on the steering ball. I bunch up my sweater to create some lumbar support for a back that always aches.

Some years, I remember combining so long under less-than-ideal conditions, I started to see things. That’s when you know it’s time to go home. Usually, the blast of cold air when you step outside the cab and stumble in the dark on

wobbly legs to the pickup helps clear your mind. Driving home, the truck seems so much quieter; agile and responsive compared to the lumbering behemoth I’ve been trapped in for hours.

A couple of weeks ago, after combining for perhaps eight straight hours, I drove the combine home. Not the longest combining day I’d ever done for sure. As always, I gathered up my stuff and began the trek down the combine steps. I’m aware of the buildup of grain dust on the deck that make slipping a distinct possibility despite my runners. I’ve got my grippy work gloves on and despite having a lunch kit in one hand, I can still make threepoint contact going down the steps. I back down the steps, clutching the grab bars on each side of me. I go slowly because I’ve been sitting so long, my legs are wobbly.

Then my right foot misses the bottom step. Oh, crap. But at least, I didn’t fall back on the

ground and smack the back of my head. My left foot didn’t get tangled up and leave me dangling, though I did feel some immediate pain in the toes of my left foot. Because I’m so short, I expected a pulled groin at the very least.. .one foot on the second last step, the other on the ground… not good, not pretty. All in all, this could have been so much worse.

So, tell me why, a week or so later, my toes and left foot are swollen each day and hurt like hell whether I’m walking, sitting, or lying down. My

icing regime has been half-hearted at best but still shouldn’t I be past this by now. It hurts more now that when it happened. Today, as I dressed for the Citadel and what would be hours away from home; sitting first in the car, then in the theatre, I tried the spray form of Biofreeze. These types of products are supposed to be the next best thing to ‘real’ icing. I suppose I should Google whether wearing a tensor bandage is a good idea or not. Maybe, it’s also time to pull out the old Dr. Ho’s foot therapy machine

and try that too. When I get seized with a challenging project like a massive reorganization of my studio/office, I work non-stop. I make miles and carry items that are too heavy. I forget to drink water. In the last few days, I’ve overdone it and not taken time to elevate and ice that foot.

With more combining to go and my annual Canmore retreat around the corner, I’ve got to get serious about getting better. I can’t afford to be a gimp in pain, from where I sit.

I wish you a safe, injury-free harvest.

Lamont Alliance Church

Lamont 780-895-2879

Sunday

Pastor Darren Anderson

www.lamontalliance.com

ROMANCATHOLICCHURCH

The Lamont Leader (Lamont, Alberta), Wednesday, September 28,

BY JANA SEMENIUK

A local centenarian, Polly Pewarchuk, was honoured Sept. 25 with a party in St. Michael celebrating her 100th birthday with nearly 200 of her family and friends.

Attendees included former Lamont Hospital Chief Administrative Officer Harold James and his wife Josie, current hospital CAO Shahad Bharmal and his wife Sara, former Alberta Premier Ed Stelmach, and Lamont County Reeve David Diduck.

Diduck, who is also a childhood friend of Pewarchuk’s daughter Mae Adamyk, spoke during the celebration to give greetings from Lamont County.

“On behalf of Lamont County and our residents, it is an extreme honour and pleasure to wish Polly a 100th birthday. That is quite a milestone,” he said. “Over 100 years, the number of changes that Polly has seen in her lifetime is just absolutely remarkable.”

Pewarchuk’s daughter Mae Adamyk emceed the celebration, sharing joys and tragedies experienced by her mom over the last 100 years.

Pewarchuk was born in 1922 in Smoky Lake at the end of the Spanish Flu epidemic that not only claimed many lives in the Lamont area, but also all her siblings.

“She actually lost all her sisters and brothers throughout the Spanish

Flu (epidemic). There was four of them,” said Adamyk. “They are buried (near) the church across the river, and my mom is the sole survivor.”

Pewarchuk and her husband Walter were married in 1943 and two years later welcomed their first of three daughters, Barbara-Ann, followed by Mae and Paulette.

Tragically, BarbaraAnn lost her life at the age of 15 on Nov. 29, 1960, when the school bus she was in along with 40 other classmates, was hit by an oncoming freight train a few blocks from her high school in Lamont. Seventeen children died in the accident and 24 others were injured. Today Polly is the only surviving parent of the tragedy that still haunts the community.

Adamyk shared that a ceremony commemorating their lives will take place Nov. 27 at a memorial near the accident site in Lamont. In addition, Pewarchuk’s husband Walter passed away from a heart attack in 1982 at the age of 68.

Meanwhile, Adamyk said her mom shares her Sept. 27 birthday with Judy Garland, Billy Graham and Betty Ford.

“And guess where they are? They're all upstairs shining silverware and mom’s still here,” she said with a laugh.

Pewarchuk’s longtime friend Reverend Debby Brill also spoke to congratulate her on the momentous occasion, noting her virility in not only withstanding a bout of COVID, but also healing from a recent fall.

“Polly, I cannot congratulate you enough (on your birthday), and it’s so wonderful that you're here with us,” she said. “I remember when you fell, because we visited in the nursing home and had a good visit that day. And I shared with you how very grateful I was that (you were) healing on demand. And (still) here with us

today.”

A group of family and friends rose to sing happy birthday in both English and Ukrainian, bringing a smile to Pewarchuk as she listened.

“Thank you for your blessings,” Pewarchuk said to the crowd. “And may the good Lord bless you all with good health and happiness. Thank you everybody.”

Adamyk also shared a heartfelt message for her mother.

“Thank you very much for being so stubborn,” she said. “And persevering to live this long.”

Lamont resident Polly Pewarchuk smiles big after hearing a group of family and friends sing Happy Birthday to her in English and Ukrainian during a Sept. 25 celebration honouring her 100th birthday on Sept. 27. Photo: Jana Semeniuk

Indigenous storyteller Elder Gary Gairdner told stories of his family during Cultural Day Sept. 25 at Bruderheim's community hall.

Photo: Jana Semeniuk

Police update residents on actions in community

BY JOHN MATHER

Lamont was the site for a town hall meeting between Fort Saskatchewan RCMP and the community, Sept. 21, yet only about 20 members of the public bothered to show to discuss concerns or issues they might have.

Inspector Barry Larocque said they would provide an overview of the detachment’s operations. He was joined at the meeting by Sergeant James Skeough. Brenda Burns and Malcolm Callinou were additional support staff accompanying the police to the town hall.

“We’re only going to make changes based on hearing people,” he said.

“We have big shoulders so please let us know your concerns. If we can’t answer your questions right now we will take it back to the detachment get an answer and get back to you.”

He began by giving a background on himself and then launched into the meat of his presentation.

He used a chart to show there are currently 43 positions based in the Fort Saskatchewan detachment with eight of those and two public servants allocated for rural or provincial policing. The others are paid by Fort Saskatchewan for municipal policing.

He did add there was no rural school resource officers paid for by the provincial policing budgets, but the detachment did have officers

who maintained regular connections with staff at the rural schools.

“We’ve had a tough summer with our resourcing,” he said. “We’ve been down on staff, but we have four new people coming on staff and that should help us greatly.”

He explained the priorities of the detachment as they are decided after meeting with local municipalities through the year. He said when the members were on shift they weren’t designated as either provincial or urban members, but rather responded to incidents as they arose.

The first priority is traffic safety, followed by community relations/ enhanced police visibility, crime reduction and property crime, domestic violence and employee wellness.

He did admit that during the pandemic the police conducted some virtual town hall meetings, but couldn’t come and meet in person and he apologized for that.

“We’re in constant communication with your community leaders,” he said, adding the priorities were pretty standard across the region.

Showing a small map outlining the detachment’s area, he explained it ran from Chipman down to Highway 16 over to Bruderheim and north to the river.

Showing where  calls come from, he noted there are many along Highway 16 which are

mostly traffic accidents.

In the urban areas of Lamont, Chipman and Bruderheim he said there are crime nodes along Highway 15.

From January to August of this year in Lamont County there were 1,901 occurrences, including all traffic, crime and personal callouts such as domestic violence or missing persons. Of those almost 50 per cent were traffic offences.

He added speeding was the highest occurrences in the traffic offences.

Larocque did admit his staff weren’t as good in reporting back to people as they should be.

“I will commit to you we’ll do better at this,” he said. “I know it’s frustrating if you call in a complaint and never hear back about it from the police.”

Showing a crime map of Lamont, it showed there was not one area of concentrated crime, but the incidents were reported in all areas of the town.

In Lamont, there were 264 calls for service this year through the end of August, with the majority of those being false alarms. He said there were 13 mischief damage calls, other moving traffic violations, assistance to general public mental health act, and municipal bylaw calls made up most of the rest.

He emphasized all calls received at the detachment did have to be documented which cut into officers’ time.

Larocque said he had heard from meeting with various municipalities that young people weren’t calling in to report crime because “nothing was being done.”

“To me that is a disconnect between the police and public we must try to fix,” he said. “How are we going to know something’s happened and how are we going to deal with it if we don’t know?

“Social media comes with lights and thumbs up buttons and other gimmicks to grab attention,” he said. “We aren’t social media. We need to be told something has happened so we can respond. We don’t respond to social media.”

One resident said he felt the disconnect went back to the people handling the calls at the detachment.

“They don’t seem to understand what we’re telling them, or they don’t seem to care,” said the resident. “The dispatch wants to know so much information and the way they come across doesn’t usually bring about confidence for the caller.”

Larocque replied there was a turnover in the dispatch area, but all the dispatchers are well trained. He did say they would go back and try to build up the message to dispatch that they should be proactive with the callers.

Residents further stated often the dispatchers don’t know where the complaint is located when it is called in.

“We can say we’re calling from Lamont or Chipman,” said one resident. “And the dispatcher has no idea what I’m talking about. They don’t know the rural area.”

Larocque admitted this could be a problem and it would be brought back to the detachment for further discussion.

He added that with eight rural members, if there is a larger volume of incidents being reported, then the police can argue for additional members in their budgets.

“If people aren’t calling it in, but rather putting it on Facebook, that’s not addressing the issue and it won’t add any more officers in the detachment.”

When it comes to publishing information on criminal activities in the community, Larocque said they had to be careful of violating people’s privacy.

The resident pointed out Vegreville published a crime sheet appearing in the paper every week.

Continued on Page 15

Local nine-year old girl pleads with town council for street painting in Bruderheim for Every Child Matters

Presentation made to Bruderheim Town Council

BY JANA SEMENIUK

A presentation to Bruderheim’s Sept. 21 town council meeting by a local nine-year old girl has resulted in a sidewalk painting project to reflect ‘Every Child Matters’, a movement bringing awareness to Canada’s history with residential schools.

A volunteer group of children and parents painted the symbols in orange on the road between the Community Hall and the Karol Maschmeyer Arena, Sept. 25.

Nine-year-old McKenna Bonner, whose father belongs to the Alexander First Nations, sat with her mother, who belongs to Fort McMurray 468 First Nations, in front of the town council to give her presentation last week.

“I do not know if any of my father's families attended residential schools. I know my mother's great aunts and uncles did. They live with a dark past and don't like to talk about the time there,” she said.

“I know that residential schools are now

closed down, but the effect it still has on my generation is huge. I want people to be aware that this problem is still going on and all children matter. I'm asking you to please consider designing and painting a sidewalk in orange. You represent me and every child to share that we matter.”

Councillor Wayne OIechow, who chaired the meeting in place of Mayor Karl Hauch who joined online due to illness, asked if council had any questions for Bonner.

“You did an awesome job,” said Councillor Ashley Carter. “Is this something that you want to be part of to help paint the sidewalk? I think that sounds like a great idea.”

Councillor George Campbell also remarked on Bonner’s courage to come forward with her message, while Councillor Olechow asked her if she had a particular sidewalk in mind for the painting project.

Chief Administrative Officer Patty Podoborozny said it was already

figured out.

“Mr. Chair, I actually had some discussions with McKenna and her mother over the last week, and we've kind of settled on from the Community Hall to the Gazebo. We'll be painting that one,” she said. “And then the entrance sidewalk (to the Gazebo). We settled on a beautiful logo that we like for Every Child Matters, and so I think we're going to put the logo on the sidewalk entrance to the Gazebo sidewalk and then we'll paint the crosswalk.”

Mayor Hauch then read the motion to approve the sidewalk painting which was approved unanimously.

Meanwhile, on Sept. 25, the painting project attracted approximately 20 people and children volunteering to help paint the symbols on the street. Podoborozny said that official street paint in all colours was in short supply, so cement paint was used in its place. She added the entire project cost approximately $250.

Bruderheim resident Bella Vincent, nine, volunteered to help with a street painting project for 'Every Child Matters' on Sept. 25. Approximately 20 parents and children came out to help after nine-year-old McKenna Bonner made the request to the town council last week.

Photo: Jana Semeniuk

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Mundare names street after world renowned psychologist

BY JOHN MATHER

When Albert Bandura, the Mundare born world renowned psychologist, died  more than a year ago, town officials knew they had to do something to remember him.

Bandura was born in Mundare to immigrant farmers and went on to revolutionize social psychology.

Eventually it was decided to rename 50 Ave. west of 50 St. after Bandura.

The naming ceremony was held Sept. 24 and Bandura’s daughter Carol Crowley, her husband John and twin sons Andrew and Tim attended the ceremony coming from their home near Boulder, Colorado.

Afterward there was a dinner for the Crowleys hosted by her Mundare relatives.

Bandura’s formal education began in the oneroom schoolhouse in Mundare. After working in the carpentry trade in Edmonton and then on the Alaska Highway, Bandura found himself at the University of British Columbia where he fell into the field of psychology and graduated in 1949.

He joined the Stanford University faculty in 1953.

Bandura became an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2014 and two

years later received the National Medal of Science from President Barack Obama.

For Carol, it was her third time visiting Mundare. Bandura still  has family in the area including Councillor Irene Talaga, who’s husband is Bandura’s nephew.

“I came here when my Aunt Rose was near the end of her life, and I also came when they had the museum exhibit for dad,” she said.

“What that family and the other immigrants did as homesteaders… Oh my God,” she stated. “To clear the land and build and build and with no running water.”

She said the stark contrast between what her parents did, and what she had growing up with, to what her sons have today is amazing.

“And to think it’s only about 140 years from dad’s family homesteading to where we are today,” she said.

“The difference between the life that they built, the perseverance. His mom had 13 kids… I simply can’t wrap my head around it.”

She said having Mundare name a street after her father was a great thing.

“He never forgot where he came from,” she explained. “He

always told his friends he was from Mundare. He had all these stories he told about growing up.”

She said his growing up and how people persevered in the face of adversity and  their hardships formed the basis of his psychology work.

“He often said his experiences, how he lived, and what he saw, influenced his later life.”

She said it was amazing how he got from a one-room school to the University of British Columbia and then on to Iowa University and then to Stanford.

“His parents weren’t well educated, yet he had this determination to succeed.

“I think his parents wanted him to succeed,” she added. “He spoke of the nuns who influenced him and wanted to see him succeed.”

She said she wanted to meet another side of his family while she was in Mundare, but they were busy with harvest at the start of the meal.

She said it was the first trip to Mundare for her sons and she knows they would like to come back.

“They’ve met distant cousins who enjoy the outdoors and hiking and I’m sure they’d like to come back and do that.”

Carol Crowley, daughter of world renowned psychologist Albert Bandura, and her husband John work through the buffet during a family dinner at the Mundare Recreation Centre, Sept. 24. Crowley came from near Boulder, Colorado to help Mundare rename part of 50 Ave after Bandura who passed away more than a year ago.

Andrew Rainbow Club sold out of perogy dinners in 45 minutes

BY JANA SEMENIUK

The Andrew Rainbow Club not only sold out of their monthly perogy dinner in 45 minutes on Sept. 20, they finally had to close the doors after turning several people away.

“I'm not sure how many we turned away, we had to shut the door,” said club member Laura Zabrick. “I think by a quarter after six we were sold out of 65 dinners.”

While Zabrick acknowledged the enormity of 65 dinners, she said the most the club has ever sold was 86 in the fall of 2020.

“It was harvest time, and we had a lot of take outs,” said Zabrick.

Zabrick explained the perogy dinners are the club’s main fundraiser and happen the third Tuesday of every month from Sept. to Nov., and Jan. to June.

“Dec. is our potluck for members only,” she said. Zabrick added that the

monthly perogy dinners usually consist of perogies, cabbage rolls, Nachynka (cornmeal), a different meat each month plus salad and desert.

“You can’t buy a dinner for $15 that’s a Ukrainian meal (anywhere else),” she said.

Although the Sept. perogy dinner is done, Zabrick said the sevenmember senior’s club have another project already on the go.

“We are gathering to make perogies for the Andrew Garlic Festival,” she said.

OF TRUTH AND

NATIONAL

Andrew's Rainbow Club was packed Sept 20 for their monthly perogy dinner and sold out in 45 minutes.

Photo: Jana Semeniuk

Workers were out late August, painting fresh traffic lines along Lamont’s main street. Using a wooden stencil, the workers carefully sprayed the lines to guide traffic through town. Photo by Crystal Moren

Recent roof repairs at Lamont High School.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Office and paper supplies for sale at The Tofield Mercury, Weekly Review, Lamont Leader offices. If we don't have it, we can probably order it for you. Don't forget to ask about custom printing - we can do almost anything either inhouse or working with our print shop.

Chokecherries are ready! Garden Vegetable are here! Pickling Cucumbers, Beets, Potatoes, Carrots, Order your fall Potatoes now!

Off Highway 13 Turn North on RR 122 go North for 3 Miles. Helen Tanton 780-888-6800

Mopsy Tucks has a great selection of costumes to rent for Halloween or all occasions. Hours Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays and evenings by appointment only. 780-386-2353 Lougheed, AB

AUCTIONS

MEIER UNRESERVED GUN & SPORTSMAN AUCTION. Saturday, Oct 1 - 10AM, Located 4740 57 St Wetaskiwin, AB Consign Now. Phone 780-4464360. Visit www.meierauction.com For More Details.

CARD OF THANKS

We want to express our sincere appreciation to everyone who helped our family in anyway as we journeyed with Gerard through his illness and his passing.

Thank you to the entire Viking medical team and a special thank you to Dr. Hagen, Dr. Niemand and the nursing staff for their professional and compassionate care. We are very grateful for the cards, gifts, flowers and donations made in Gerard’s memory. Thank you for all of your prayers and to Fr. Robert and our parish family. We feel blessed with the support from all of you.

Colleen Durand and Family

CARD OF THANKS

Thank you to my family for the surprise 80th birthday party. It wouldn’t have been a party without all of my friends who came. Thank you for the gifts, cards, and just being there. I hope I said hi to everyone and I’m sorry if I missed you!

Frances Gotobed

COMING EVENTS

Come and Go 80th Birthday Party for Irene Arndt at the Viking Legion Oct 8 2-5 No Gifts Please

FEED AND SEED

WE BUY DAMAGED GRAINHeated, Mixed, Tough, Light, Bugs, Spring Thrashed....Barley, Wheat, Oats, Peas, Flax, Canola. "On Farm Pickup". Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252.

ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.

FOR RENT

Large, quiet, non-smoking 2 bedroom apartment in Killam. For viewing, call Chuck at 780-2637290

Viking: One bedroom basement suite for rent available October 1st. $650 utilities included. Call or text 780-717-6783.

FOR SALE

Brian’s Greenhouse U-Pick Berries and Fruits Farm has some Goji Berries for sale. Just been planted on September 15. If anybody is interested, come to the site by September 30 to book them and preserve them for next spring. 1/2 paid Down payment required to hold. There are 63 bushes in total$30/each. We are located 4 miles East of Bawlf off of Highway 13 on RR 172 1/4 mile North. Second place on the East side of the road. Contact Brian for appointments from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Saturday. 780-678-0053

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Brian’s Greenhouse U-Pick Berries and Fruits Farm has Potatoes for sale. $15 for 50 lb potato sack. $2 for baby potatoes in a bread bag. They have just been dug up. If interested, contact Brian at 780678-0053 for pick up. Open from 10 a.m. to 3p.m. Monday to Saturday.

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FOR SALE

WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 20. One-time fuel charge: $125-175. Crystal Springs. 403820-0961. Quality guaranteed.

Hunters 2 - double wide ladder tree stands. 1 new and 1 used once. $75 each firm. Call 780.662.4515.

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2010 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4X4, 207,000 miles in excellent condition; $8,500.00. 780-3852474.

Fresh roasting chickens – range in weight from 6-10 lbs. Home grown-farm fresh. Call or text Val Quattek 587-256-5402. Available September 19.

GARAGE SALE

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Large garage/estate sale. Many items for sale! Craft supplies, tools, household and garden items. Location: #43 Lindbrook Estates. Sale dates: Sat., Oct. 1 & Sun., Oct. 2 from 9:00 am - 6:00 pm. Call: 780-913-2126 for any inquiries.

Thursday - Saturday Sept 29 - Oct 1st from 10 am - 8 pm. Tools, household, gun reloading kit, large sale. Located 50518 Rge Rd 195.

LAND FOR SALE

3 QUARTERS OF CROPLAND South of Weyburn, SK. Distressed sale. Priced below market at 1.27 x assessment, with a 4% return with lease. $594,800.00. Call Doug at 306-716-2671.

HEALTH

GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you or someone you know have any of these conditions: ADHD, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Cancer, COPD, Depression, Diabetes, Difficulty Walking, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowels, Overweight, Trouble Dressing...and Hundreds more. ALL Ages & Medical Conditions qualify. CALL THE BENEFITS PROGRAM 1-800-211-3550 or send a text message with Name and Mailing Address to 403-980-3605 for your FREE benefits package. 39p

HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-453-5372.

HELP WANTED

Hardisty Curling Club is seeking icemaker/cleaner for the 2022/23 season. Please send applications to Hardisty Curling Club, Hardisty, AB, T0B 1V0

REAL ESTATE

FARMLAND AND PASTURE LAND BY SASKATCHEWAN RIVER. 160 acres. Best hunting in Saskatchewan. Excellent fishing. Thick pine & poplar bluffs, by water coulee. Old yard site with power and water. Revenue Potential. East of Prince Albert, SK. $248,000. Call Doug 306-7162671.

SERVICES

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 780-385-1251.

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.

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. 1-877-987-1420. www.pioneerwest.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.

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 Painting Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749 or 780-688-3564

SERVICES

Town & Country Guardian Drugs - Killam

We have: •a Kodak picture maker. •a colour/b&w photocopier. •cold pop and fresh snacks.

•a great selection of candles, giftware, and fragrances. toys, games,and plush animals.

•a huge selection of Hallmark cards.

•plastic gift cards

•vitamins, minerals, and herbals.

•free gift wrapping.

•prescription service

Open 6 days a week.

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

Carpet and Upholstery cleaningresidential 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

Need to re-order:

•Company Forms?

•Invoices? •Envelopes?

•Business Cards?

•Bookmarks?

•Score Cards?

•Certificates? •Receipts?

•Posters? •Menus? •Invitations?

•Calendars? •Letterhead? Call your local paper with your print order today!

WEEKLY REVIEW Ph. 780-336-3422

Email: vikingreview @gmail.com

TOFIELD MERCURY Ph. 780-662-4046

Email: adsmercury @gmail.com

LAMONT LEADER Ph. 780-895-2780

Email: lmtleader @gmail.com

GOLD, SILVER & PLATINUM BUYERS purchasing all gold & silver bullion, jewelry, coins, nuggets, dust, scrap, pre-1968 coins, bulk silver, sterling +++ Numismatist purchasing entire coin collections & accumulations, Royal Canadian Mint coins, world collections, old $$$. +++ 250-864-3521.

Police update

from Page 7

Larocque agreed it could be done, but privacy concerns would have to be addressed.

He did admit that having a property crime solve rate of only around nine per cent in the County was unacceptable, but he added with the two highways running through the County much of the property crime was transient in nature and therefore harder to solve.

He further added that with staff members on leave to attend courses or on pregnancy leave, there were no replacements for them.

“Our resources are down across the country,” he said. “There’s not that many people wanting to get into policing these days. Our soft vacancies for the most part sit vacant for a long period of time.”

Burns added that the attrition rate in the RCMP is high.

“We try to bolster the numbers where and when we can,” she stated. “But you have to be able to accommodate the

members who are on leave when they come back to work. You can have several members of a detachment away at one time.”

The last thing Larocque addressed was patrols.

“They aren’t the magic pill that will fix everything,” he said. “We can patrol an area and then leave and something will happen.”

He did admit seeing a patrol did boost police confidence in the community. He added targeted patrols, which the police do use, were much more effective.

LAMONT COUNTY

• Modern 15,000 sq ftIndustrial Shop built on 42.8 acres in Lamont County adjacent to town of Lamont.

There is an approximately 15 acres of gravelled yard with partial chain link fencing located at 195043 HWY 29 Lamont County. Price: $3,175,000

• W4-18-54-18-NW, 2 parcel farm 158.48 acres 130 ± acres of grain cultivation 3 bedroom house. Property has gas, power, well, septic with aerial discharge, Dug out and a shop. Price: $850,000

• Range Road 203 between Highway 15 and TWP Rd 552, 6.77 acre lot near Bruderheim. Good building site. Price: $160,000

• Office Building 5015 - 50 Street Chipman. 946 sq ft building with reception area, office area and washrooms. Price: $125,000

• W4-18-53-24-SW Plan 0826481 Block 2 Lot 1 5.02 acres yard site in Lamont County. Utilities at the property line. Price $49,000

• W4-18-53-26-SE N ½ Lamont County 80 acres property with a 60‘ by 40’ shop and the remainder of the land currently in hay. Price: $235,000

• 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: $4,400,000

TWO HILLS COUNTY RECREATION LAND

• W4-12-55-27 NW 146 acres with 1/2-mile frontage on the North Saskatchewan River. HWY 29 and RR 123 50± acres of cultivation power at property Nicely treed lot for a building site. Price: $325,000

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 HWY 21 and Lakeland Drive 63.62 acres of development land with HWY 21 exposure. The property is within the Bremner and local Employment Area ACP with expected future use of industrial. Price: $6,000,000

• 0.82 acre Lot located in Griffin Industrial Park in Sherwood Park. Land use designation in medium industrial Price: $399,000

TERRY FOXSTILLINSPIRINGCHILDREN

A group of Chipman children ages five to 12, were inspired by their school's recent Terry Fox Run to do their own fundraiser in front of their home for cancer research. The kids pooled together their talents for painting nails, making paper fans to sell, and even included some of their own items to sell in order to aid in their fundraiser Sept. 26. Total amount raised was not available by press time.

Lauren HillSteven HillNorman Hill

Construction equipment and haul trucks line Range Road 203 as it is being reconstructed from Highway 15 to the CN tracks past the Cenovus industrial site. Wider turnout lanes are being constructed at the Highway 15 intersection to accommodate larger vehicles.

Photo: Jana Semeniuk

Cleanfarms offers a collection program every three years for unwanted/obsolete pesticide and livestock medications. The next collection is scheduled for the Northern half of the province (north of Red Deer) & Peace region fall 2022.

• Alberta – North: October 3 to 7, with 20 single-day events.

• The next collection is scheduled for the Southern half of the province (south of Red Deer) fall 2024.

See: https://cleanfarms.ca/materials/unwanted-pesticides-animal-meds/#albertabritish-columbia

Feral Pigs

Why is there concern over wild pigs in Alberta? These pigs are invasive, notoriously difficult to catch and can uproot entire ecosystems. Invasive species can cause unbalanced competition on the landscape(see a recent CBC article: https://t.co/KiKPkwTe86). Sighting should be reported and managed (take pictures, note the location and notify Lamont County Agricultural Services). More information about the ‘at large’ species is at: https://www.alberta.ca/wild-boar-in-alberta.aspx

International Day of Older Persons –October 1 October1

Lamont County recognizes & celebrates the International Day of Older Persons on October 1, to recognize the significant contributions and responsibility older persons play in the world. Senior citizens are society leaders.

As a reminder, Agriculture Service Board has its annual photo contest starting in October. Keep (in early Oct.) an eye on lamontcounty.ca for submission information.

Fire Prevention and Safety Week

Fire Prevention Week is October 9-15. See lamontcounty.ca in Oct. for prevention tips, etc.

Harvest Season Safety y

It's still harvest season in Lamont County! Watch for larger (& slow-moving) vehicles/equipment and wildlife crossing during dusk on roadways during your travels. Some vehicles are wider than normal and need more space on the road.

Council and Committee of the Whole Meetings

The next Regular Council Meeting is on Tuesday, October 11, starting at 9 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. Mask wearing is at personal discretion.

If you would like to speak or present at a meeting, please contact Legislative Services

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)

ASB Photo Contest –coming soon!

Unwanted Pesticide and Livestock Medication Collection

Hockey players to be followed by newspapers, but parents’ help needed

With minor hockey season fast approaching and youngsters getting seeded into their skill-level tiers, it’s time to consider sending us a quick email so we can report on how your local minor league player is doing.

If you live in Lamont County, Beaver County, or Flagstaff County, this is open to you; and we’ve been told it is such a thrill for young hockey players to see their names in print when they score or assist on a goal.

But we need your help. Either The Lamont Leader, Tofield Mercury, Weekly Review, or Community Press will report scores and scorers from minor hockey games - but we have to know your youngster’s name, what team he/she is on, what league he/she

plays in, and the web address.

Please send your email to: kamcjm@gmail.com

Sometimes people send the wrong web information, or improper instructions as to find players’ teams and scores. So if your child is missed. Please double check and send another email.

If your youngster is playing outside of our counties in higher levels, please let us know what team, league and the web address for score sheets from games.

We will be collecting all the players names, teams, leagues, and web addresses from now until all the leagues begin, and then looking up and reporting the scores each week during the hockey season.

Let’s drop the puck and have a great hockey season.

Tickets $100 ea.

also be purchased by

BRCF office at 780-679-0449

Each ticket is eligible for a tax receipt for $50

Kerry Anderson

Perfect late summer and fall weather has allowed for an efficient harvest for farmers this year.

LISA KUFLAY PHOTO

Dry weather a boost as farmers get crops picked up

A warm dry September means the fall harvest in the region is nearly complete.

“I think most of the farmers are pretty much done with the harvest in these parts,” said Jonathon Culbert, Agricultural Fieldman for Beaver County. “I don’t have the numbers yet on what the yields might have been.”

He said the final crop to be picked up by the harvesters is canola, which did get a later start this spring because of some wet weather.

Other cereal crops like wheat, barley, and peas are all pretty much off the fields.

“I’ve been busy do club root surveys recently,” he said. “So I can’t comment  on what  sort of prices the farmers are getting for this year’s crop.”

He said it was a good growing season for the farmers. There was lots of moisture in the ground at the start of seeding, and although

it did rain in June, the summer was dry which provided good yields.

He said the dryness in September may have impacted some of the yields, but the dryness was also good for ripening and harvest.

“Hopefully we’ll have happy farmers this year,” he added.

Beaver County has an area of about 3,000 square kilometres and Culbert said more than half of it is

cultivated land.

Rather than a north-south oriented harvest, Culbert feels the harvest is uniform across the County, with the farmers in the centre of Beaver getting the harvest in early while the farmers harvesting in both far east of the County and west portions of the County are running a little later in getting the crops off the fields.

John Mather

A farmer drives his combine through the crops on his fields near Bruderheim, Sept. 25. Warm, dry weather has produced near perfect conditions for farmers getting their crops harvested. JOHN MATHER PHOTO

Now that fall is here, it’s time to start thinking about getting your home ready for the colder months to come.

Proper maintenance will not only ensure that your home is better protected from damage, but also make sure that it provides your family with a warm and safe indoor environment when it’s freezing outside. Here are four steps experts recommend:

1. Check your furnace

Have your furnace serviced by a professional to confirm its working efficiently and help extend its lifespan.

It’s a good idea to replace the furnace filter at the beginning of the heating season, and every one to three months afterwards.

Finally, inspect the external exhaust to ensure it’s not clogged with debris – a blocked furnace exhaust can lead to poorer performance and dangerous carbon monoxide buildup in your home.

2. Inspect your roof and eavestroughs

A roof and exterior drainage system

in good working order keeps water out of your home when rooftop snow melts. Have a professional roofing company take a look to ensure that shingles and flashing are all in place and properly sealed.

Inspect eavestroughs for damage and remove leaves and other debris that may cause blockages.

At ground level, check your downspouts to ensure they direct water away from foundation walls.

3. Clean and inspect your chimney

If you have a fireplace or wood burning stove, make sure it’s ready for winter before you start using it.

It is highly recommended that you have your chimney cleaned annually to remove soot and other debris that can ignite and lead to fires.

You should also check for cracks, loose bricks or other kinds of deterioration. Keep in mind that if you own a newly built home, your warranty may cover some of these issues.

4. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

While they are a critical part of

home safety all year round, your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are even more important during winter when windows are shut and

the heating is on, since there’s less air circulating. Take a few minutes to test them and, if necessary, replace their batteries.

Thanks to the pandemic, many of us have had a lot of practice backyarding. This is the act of doing indoor things –think dining, working, entertaining, exercising and even vacationing – outdoors, like in our own backyards. According to the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care and use of all green space, many have taken their backyarding practices up a notch.

“We really appreciate time outdoors –not only in the great expanses of nature, but also in our own backyards,” says Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation.

“If you’re doing things like planting for pollinators, getting outside no matter the weather, and putting the right plant in the right place, pat yourself on the back. You’re a master backyarder.”

He adds that the more time we spend in our yards, the better it is for our health and well-being, as well as the health of the planet.

Here are 10 things Master Backyarders do that all of us should emulate:

Help the environment on a micro-level. Having a living landscape, over artificial grass, pavement and rocks, supports the environment. Green, growing plants, shrubs, trees and grass, captures and filters rainwater, and produces oxygen.

Don’t let lack of space deter backyard-

ing. Master Backyarders maximize every inch of their outdoor space, whether that means planting a container garden on a balcony, outfitting a small urban yard with shrubs and flower pots, or creating a backyard oasis in a large neighborhood lawn.

Creatively utilize outdoor space. Master Backyarders set up their yards for purpose with patio furniture, a fire pit, yard games, plenty of outdoor seating, string lights, and maybe even an outdoor kitchen or office space. And they use their backyards for everything – from working and exercising to vacationing and entertaining.

Put the right plants in the right place. Master Backyarders know their climate zone and consider location, maintenance, sunlight and watering requirements before they plant.

Plant for pollinators and wildlife. Master Backyarders cultivate a living landscape that supports a rich biodiversity with butterfly bushes, flowering plants, water sources, and trees and shrubs with nooks for nesting and food.

Get outside year-round. No fair weather backyarding here. Master Backyarders are outside during all four seasons. They understand advance planning and work in and use their green space year round. They plant in the fall for a glo-

rious spring, remove snow to create useable areas, prune trees before bad weather hits and more.

Utilize community parks and public green space. Master Backyarders recognize the importance of managed landscapes throughout the community to create eco-corridors that are part of the worldwide ecosystem. They also appreciate and use these community gathering spots.

Teach kids the importance of green space. Master Backyarders are mentors to the next generation, teaching kids to explore, play in and enjoy the nature right outside their backdoor.

Keep the family dog in mind. Master

Backyarders understand that they aren’t the only ones who rely on their outdoor space, so they purpose their backyard with pets in mind. Sturdy turfgrass that stands up to pet play, soft foliage to create a natural barricade between off limits areas and the rest of the lawn, and trees and shrubs strategically planted for shade are all part of their master plan.

Embrace the hidden benefits of the backyard. Master Backyarders know they are getting a health boost when they spend time working in their yards. Other hidden benefits of the yard Master Backyarders appreciate? Increased energy, lower stress, improved mood, and exercise just to name a few.

Tofield area’s K3 Corn Maze is a family affair

Jana Semeniuk

When Marcy Kallal’s husband Kalin came to her with his idea for a corn maze to put on their farm near Tofield, she had no idea it would turn into their family business, K3 Corn Maze and Family Farm.

“It was his idea. We had gone to another corn maze a couple years ago and he said this is such a cool idea. It was so much fun. We have three little kids and they had so much fun,” she said. “He (said), Tofield needs more of this. We need something, you know, for families in surrounding areas. He’s the idea guy and I couldn't see it. It was just a hay field, and I couldn’t picture this corn maze.”

K3 Corn Maze opened on July 17, 2021, after only a couple of months of preparation. Marcy said it was a very successful first year with up to 600 people a day coming through by fall.

She explained that the corn is planted on five acres and allowed to grow approximately one to two feet before Kalin mows in

the design with help from his family. Marcy said this year, the design held some advertising for a radio station.

“This year he contacted 840 CFCW, seeing if they wanted to, in exchange for advertising for us on the radio, we would put 840 CFCW in the corn maze. They wanted to (and) they were super excited,” she said.

In addition to the corn maze, Marcy said they have added other elements for families to enjoy.

“A lot of people think that we are just a corn maze and not realizing we have zip lines, pedal carts, bale piles, playground, a food truck, animal pens, walking trails, wildlife shoot out, and we’ve got tent rentals,” she said.

Marcy said it wasn’t long before Kalin came to her with another idea, this time for Halloween.

“He wanted to do a Field of Screams, like a Halloween idea. So we did. We did three weekends last October

and it was a huge success,” she said.

Marcy explained that Kalin dressed up and acted as a ‘scarer’ hiding out in the corn to scare visitors as they made their way through the maze. An arrangement with the graduating class from a local school gave them even more scarers.

“We donated $2000 to their grad class, and in return they came and gave us scarers every night from the grad class to help in the cornfield,” she said. “So, we are going to run it again this October just for two weekends though, because we tape off a certain trail in the corn maze and we set out props. We decided to do two weekends instead of three this year.”

Marcy added that they have an open invitation for people who want to volunteer as a scarer to earn a season pass for the following year.

Meanwhile, Marcy said sometimes people legitimately get lost within the maze and resort to calling her on her cell for rescue.

“But usually by the time someone gets down there, they've found their way out,” she said.

In terms of the future, Marcy said the ideas have not stopped and more is in store for K3 Corn maze.

“We eventually want to do winter activities like hayrides and skating because the creek runs along the property there,” she said. “But that'll have to wait a little bit.”

Busy B

North store 780-662-4116

South store 780-662-4325

Wishing all the farmers a successful harvest!

Volunteers are welcome!

MARCY KALLAL PHOTO

Farmers have the most important job; tips for making it a little safer

Tractor accidents, grain entrapment, and injuries from ornery livestock are just some of the dangers agricultural workers face every day.

In 2016, the agricultural industry had a rate of 21.4 deaths per 100,000 workers, and each day agricultural workers experienced 100 non-fatal, lost-worktime injuries.

Agricultural dangers are not limited to North America. In Ireland, farm accidents have increased by 13 per cent in the last five years and by 31 percent in the last decade, according to a national survey of farm accidents conducted by the Teagasc National Farm Survey. Furthermore, 97 per cent of all farm accident victims required medical treatment.

Farms are dangerous places, and while carelessness can and does contribute to incidents, accidents also take place

during routine, seemingly safe activities. These farm safety guidelines can help lower the risk of injuries.

• Know farm equipment. Read and follow all instructions in the equipment operation manuals.

In addition, attend local farm safety workshops to learn more about specific equipment and products.

• Conduct routine safety checks. Look around buildings and grounds for obvious hazards, such as fire hazards and hazardous materials, including farm chemicals that are not stored correctly.

• Practice cleanliness.

Maintain clean and neat work areas with tools stored properly and out of the way after use.

• Be mindful of your clothing and hair. Many accidents involve a power take-off system, or PTO, which is a common component of large rotary mowers, tractors and forage choppers. Clothing can easily get caught in an engaged but unguarded PTO stub.

It’s easy for laces or coveralls to become wrapped around a spinning stub shaft. The PTO driveline and other protrusion points also can be dangerous if people do not pay

attention.

• Use rollover protection structures. ROPS can be used on tractors and other equipment to prevent injuries. In addition, wear seat belts and employ other safety equipment as advised.

• Avoid extra passengers. It can be tempting to take the kids for a spin, but do not allow additional passengers to ride on agricultural equipment.

• Exercise caution when handling chemicals. Take extra precautions when handling any chemicals, including pesticides.

• Wear protective gear. Wear appropriate gear and equipment. Make sure the skin, feet, ears, eyes, and hands are protected at all times.

• Employ lock out/tag out control. This is a process where one can work on equipment only after every energy source

has been controlled, such as hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical, according to Rural Mutual Insurance Company.

Turning off equipment and using certain controls or locks on devices can prevent equipment from restarting before it is safe to do so.

Farm safety should be a priority for owners, their families and employees so that agricultural injuries can be reduced.

#1 20332 Township Road 512 - Sherwood Park, Alberta T8G 1E8 780-662-2227 www.hastingslakevet.com

Hours: Mon. –Fri. 8:30 am –5:30 pm Sat. 8:30 am –1:30 pm.

It is a pleasure to serve our farming families by taking care of your farm pets. Thank you so much for your support and referrals, we greatly appreciate it!

We take great pride in ensuring veterinary visits for our patients, even those that rarely leave the farm, are as stress free as possible. Many of our staff are Fear Free certified practitioners and we can help you make that trip to the vet clinic much easier!

Our community event to look forward to in 2022: •Farm Cat Spay/Neuter Clinic is running through the month of October. Call the clinic for more information 780-662-2227 or check out our website www.hastingslakevet.com

We care for cats, dogs, caged pets and farm pets including poultry, goats, sheep, pot bellied pigs and alpacas.

Agricultural societies unsung heroes

Patricia Harcourt

Fall is the time when most ag producers are busy getting off the harvest from their fields and gardens.

This is a time for thanksgiving that the crops and other produce that were seeded in the spring have grown, ripened and matured so the harvest is bountiful and a future for agriculture secured for yet another year.

Producers are very busy in the spring and fall all throughout the province with this very important work. But in the summer and winter, they often spend time contributing to their communities in the old-fashioned spirit of get-togethers and events that bring people in the rural areas together.

It has been a tradition

since the pioneers settled this country, to come together and build strong roots in their communities.

The same can be said for people living in Lamon County, Beaver County, Flagstaff County, and Irma village in the M.D. of Wainwright. The people in these places all benefit greatly from their local agricultural societies, which have taken on the work of putting on events that help forge the ties that bind in many communities every year.

And rural areas need all the help they can get as the forces of centralizing populations into larger centres keeps sending young people to the cities and away from their roots to live and raise their families.

The province considered it important enough to declare September 21

as Agriculture Societies Day in Alberta.

The declaration was made “to recognize and promote the significant contributions agriculture societies make enhancing the quality of life in communities across the province.”

Ag societies, as they are usually called, are run by volunteers whose goal is not to make money but to hold community events and promote the spirit of those individual communities.

“Ag societies work to enhance quality of life by developing programs and services, and providing facilities that meet the needs of their communities,” says the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies. With more than 700 such facilities in the province, they include ice arenas, community halls, curling rinks, barns and

campgrounds that are owned and/or operated by ag societies in Alberta.

Ag societies in the local region love to put on rodeos, markets and fairs in the summer, and curling, hockey and Christmas and holiday events in winter.

The first of what are now 291 ag societies in Alberta were formed in 1879 and 1880. These include 20 that are more than 100 years old and 34 that celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2022.

One example is the Holden Agricultural Society which operates the Holden Complex. A Harvest Dance will be held on Saturday, November 12, hosted by the Holden Ag Society at the Holden Complex to celebrate the society’s 50th anniversary this year.

And, like many ag society events, there will be something for the whole family to enjoy including

free skating, a crib tournament, steak supper, and children’s meal. A live and silent auction will be held, followed by the dance.

Many other celebrations are being held this year to honour the work

of local ag societies, and it is well deserved as the volunteers care greatly about their communities and their continued ability to “inspire vibrancy in Alberta communities,” as the ag society website proclaims.

To those who work in hectares, not hours We thank you!

From Flagstaff County Council and Staff

LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTO

Gathering geese are delighted to land in freshly combined fields so they can enjoy any loose seeds that didnʼt get caught. These are just a very few of the many geese that gather nightly around the slough intersecting the Town of Killam, both on the western and eastern sides of town.

When can kids trick-ortreat without an adult?

Jack-o'-lanterns on front porches and crisp air are signs that Halloween is right around the corner. Costumes have likely been chosen and bags of candy are undoubtedly hidden in the back of pantries ready to delight trickor-treaters.

Trick-or-treating is one of the most anticipated components of celebrating Halloween, and scores of kids venture door-to-door seeking the best chocolate bars and other candies. Children typically are chaperoned by their parents or other adults on trick-or-treating ventures. But some day kids will inevitably ask if they can go out alone with their friends. How can parents know when kids are mature enough to go it alone on Halloween?

There are no firm rules regarding when a child can go out trick-or-treating unsupervised. Each child is different, so there's no uniform answer as to when kids can trick-or-treat without mom and dad in tow. But parents on the fence can consider the following guidance as they try to determine when it's alright for kids to trick-or-treat alone.

• Find out who is going trick-or-treating. Parents may feel more comfortable letting their children wander if they are reassured a group of friends is going en masse rather than the child going solo. There is safety in numbers, so trick-or treating in large groups is a good sign.

•Judge the neighbourhood critically. Neighbourhoods also can be a factor to consider. What may be a safe environment during the day may no longer be so safe when darkness descends and children are unchaperoned. If parents recognize the neighbourhood tows the line between being safe and dangerous, they may want to push off trick-or-treating alone until their children are older. But even the neighbourhoods parents would characterize as "safe" are not invulnerable to safety issues. It pays to check where registered child predators live nearby, and that information is available to the public in most areas.

•How responsible is the child? Some kids mature faster than others. Parents need to factor in their children's dispositions when they consider if kids should be allowed out to trick-or-treat without adults.

•Check in about the game plan. When children get older, trick-or-treating may be less about grabbing candy and more about spending time with friends, potentially causing mischief. Parents should recognize that kids left to their own devices may be more inclined to act foolishly. It helps to have an idea of what the group of kids will be doing when they go trick-or-treating and how long they plan to be out.

There's no magic age or situation that tells parents when their children are ready to trick-or-treat without supervision. It's an individual decision best made after careful consideration.

Dylan Hogstead, Jodi Kimball, Cameron Kosolowsky

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Efforts to educate women about breast cancer have helped raise awareness of the disease and just how treatable it is when detected early.

Despite that, a diagnosis can still be difficult for women and their families. When someone close to you is affected by breast cancer, priorities suddenly change. You may be wondering what you can do to provide the support needed to help this person navigate any ups and downs that could be on the horizon.

A breast cancer diagnosis does not produce a uniform response. While one loved one may embrace others wanting to help, another may feel she is a burden and exhibit an unwillingness to accept help. In the latter instance, being a sup-

portive bystander may require walking on eggshells. Even still, there are some universal ways to lend support when a friend or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer.

• Offer practical support. Cancer affects the body in a number of ways. Energy levels may wane and certain symptoms may arise. Side effects from treatments also can make it difficult to continue with daily tasks. An offer to help with tasks associated with daily living, such as cooking meals, gardening, washing clothes, or cleaning up around the house, can be practical and much appreciated. Approach the individual and ask questions in pointed ways. Rather than, “What can I do to help?”, which may result in an answer of, “Nothing,” figure out a way to pitch in and then ask if that would be

acceptable.

• Offer emotional support. Someone with breast cancer may just need a person who can be there and listen. A hug, a nod of understanding or even a companion who can chat and take the person’s mind off the cancer can be immensely helpful. Keep in mind that emotions may change on a dime, and some emotions may be directed at support systems. While it can feel hurtful, remember the real reason for any outburst is the disease. Patience is needed at all times.

• Learn what you can about breast cancer. Re-

search the type of cancer your loved one has, which may make it easier to understand what to expect. If the person is amenable, you may consider accompanying her to appointments to hear firsthand about the next steps in her treatment and recovery.

• Maintain a positive attitude. It’s never easy knowing someone you love is sick. They are going through their own emotional roller coaster, and support systems can lift their spirits by maintaining positive attitudes.

• Find a support group. Professional support groups are great resources

for coping with a cancer journey. Supporting a person with cancer takes its own unique toll, particularly when caring for a spouse, child or mother with breast cancer. Support groups for support net-

works can be helpful.

Individuals diagnosed with breast cancer may need a little extra love and support. It’s up to caregivers and friends to step up and provide what is needed.

Meme

Cats are beloved pets across the globe. In 2020, there were roughly 53 million cats owned as pets in North America.

Cats are admired for their can-do attitudes. They're independent, quirky and often clever. While some people may describe cats as aloof, plenty of pet cats desire daily affection and cuddle sessions with their pet parents.

It's important for cat owners to familiarize themselves with common feline behaviors and personality traits. That familiarity can help cat owners recognize when something may be "off" with their cats. While cats are good at self-care, there are times when owners must step in and offer assistance.

Here's a look at common

conditions that can affect pet cats.

• Tick-borne diseases: Cats may not spend as much time outdoors as dogs, but they still can pick up ticks if they are let out from time to time or cohabitate in homes with dogs. Ticks can carry various illnesses, but bobcat fever (cytauxzoonosis) is one to be concerned about. It's quite serious and often fatal.

• Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV): This slow-acting virus may not be noticeable until the disease makes the cat ill years after initial infection. A weakened immune system can open the cat up to a number of other illnesses and secondary infections. With good care, a cat could live months or years before the chronic stages of FIV.

• Vomiting: Cats groom themselves and can get fur stuck in their throats and digestive tracts, producing hairballs that are ultimately spit up. However, cats may vomit for other reasons, including ingesting something poisonous or dangerous, like string. Cats that are vomiting often can become dehydrated, which could lead to a medical emergency.

• Feline urinary tract diseases (FLUTD): The pets division of WebMD

indicates roughly 3 percent of cats visiting vets are diagnosed with FLUTD. Cats can develop it for a variety of reasons, including stress in a household, eating dry food, and being overweight. It's always an emergency if a cat can't urinate or has pain doing so.

• Fleas: Cat owners may lament fleas, as they can be a problem and spread fast. A cat is at risk of developing anemia if it be-

comes infested with fleas. Topical treatments and oral medications can help prevent or eradicate fleas.

• Heartworm: The ASPCA warns that, like dogs, cats can get heartworm from the bites of mosquitoes. Despite its name, heartworm primarily causes lung disease in cats.

• High-rise syndrome: Cats that reside in urban areas in multistory homes may be susceptible to falls. Windows without screens

or where screens are not well-secured can pose risks to curious cats who want to take in the sun and fresh air. Falls can cause serious injuries, even death. The problem has become so prevalent that vets gave the condition the name "high-rise syndrome."

Cats are susceptible to various illnesses and injuries. Awareness of these conditions can help cat owners protect their cats more effectively.

As with many celebrations, Halloween is steeped in traditionsmany of which can be traced back quite some time. Since Halloween is believed to have originated from Celtic pagan, ancient Roman and early Christian events, its traditions are varied. The following is a deep look at some old traditions associated with Halloween.

Bonfires

Historians trace many traditions of Halloween to a Celtic holiday known as Samhain (pronounced sow-in). The Celts lived 2,000 years ago in parts of what is now Northern France, Great Britain and Ireland.

During Samhain, people believed that the door between the worlds of the living and the dead was blurred. On Samhain, Celts believed the ghosts of the dead returned. Also, Druids made predictions about the future at this time of year. It was customary to build large, sacred bonfires and burn crops and other sacrifices to the Celtic deities.

While large bonfires are not typically part of Halloween celebrations today, revelers can light fire pits in their yards that are reminiscent of ancient celebrations.

Trick-or-treating

Christianity spread throughout Celtic regions and blended with other rituals. Pope Gregory III expanded on a holiday Pope Boniface IV established to honor Christian martyrs to include all saints and martyrs. All Saints Day on November 1 commemorates the venerable saints, and All Souls Day on November 2 celebrates loved ones who went on to eternal rest. All-Hallows Eve (Halloween) was a time to pay homage to the dead. Poor children would go door to door in more affluent neighborhoods offering to say prayers for residents' deceased loved ones in exchange for some food or money. This was known as "souling," which became the basis for trickor-treating. Later the

tradition became known as "guising" in areas of Scotland, where children would go around in costumes.

Witches

Images of witches riding broomsticks are everywhere come Halloween, and witch costumes remain a standard.

Almanac.com indicates that, during the Middle Ages, women who practiced divination were dubbed "witches," from the Anglo-Saxon word "wicce," or "wise one." It was believed the witches could go into a trancelike

state, and would do so in front of their fireplaces.

Superstitious people believed the witches could fly out of their chimneys on broomsticks and terrorize others with magical deeds.

Bobbing for apples

Bobbing for apples is not quite as popular as it once was, as more people have become concerned about spreading germs.

During the Roman festival for Pomona, which occurred around November 1, Pomona, the goddess of fruit and orchards, was celebrated.

Romans believed the first person to catch a bobbing apple with his or her teeth would be the first to marry. It also was believed apple peels contained the secrets to true love.

Carving pumpkins

Removing the insides of pumpkins and carving them into funny or fearsome faces may be messy work, but it's tradition on Halloween. Turnips were the material of choice in ancient Ireland, but were replaced by pumpkins when immigrants came to America.

The "lanterns" were made with scary faces and lit to frighten away spirits.

Halloween is full of traditions, many of which have lengthy histories.

Volunteerism in crisis? Pandemic made profound dent

Leslie Cholowsky

One of the things hit hard by two years of shutdowns and restrictions caused by COVID-19 was volunteerism.

As some volunteers took the break as an opportunity to retire permanently, now that things are up and running, some organizations are desperately trying not only to replace those in key positions, but to attract new volunteers overall.

Volunteer Alberta says a lack of bodies directly affects an organization’s ability to host events, hold fundraisers, and having those volunteers who remained be spread too thin.

A 2022 Volunteer Management Progress Report says that available volunteer opportunities, numbers of volunteers engaged, and total volunteer hours per month have all declined significantly over pre-pandemic levels.

Many of us are creatures of habit, and a two-year pandemic situation provided few opportunities to volunteer. So while there may be no lack of desire to volunteer now, it’s something that needs to be built back in to routines that saw big changes during the pandemic for many.

Recruitment of new volunteers and re-engaging lapsed volunteers remains a top priority for many organizations in

2022.

There is a positive note, as organizations who wished to remain active were forced to engage with volunteers in a different way, often digitally, new opportunities arose where volunteers could spend less of their valuable time ‘meeting’ and more of it ‘doing.’

Before COVID few groups had or would have considered remote roles. As that became a necessity to move forward during restrictions, it now represents a unique opportunity for those with a particular expertise to volunteer their time and participate in a new way.

Many volunteer groups felt that communication improved through their use of technology through the pandemic years.

For some lucky organizations, improved communication, whether through digital meeting platforms or social media, also provided an opportunity to but issues like scheduling before a broader audience, and also aided in recruitment.

For other groups, digital communications became an obstacle. One response describing an organization’s digital maturity rating was: “Most of the volunteers I work with do not use technology other than a cell phone, and some don’t even have that.

“Some don’t even know how to text;

less than one-quarter have email. I would love to use more technology, but most don’t have the resources or knowledge to use it.”

While managing volunteers with differing digital skills levels can be a challenge, if done well it’s a way to allow a variety of skill sets to come together. An inability to text or ‘zoom’ doesn’t make any volunteer less important or vital to an organization.

Developing a strategic plan to expand the use of technology to assist with volunteer engagement was identified as a priority for most volunteer groups who responded to the Progress Report.

One responder said, “We want to offer more remote volunteering opportunities, and more training for our volunteers to increase confidence and ability to use technology.”

2021 and 2022 brought in a new issue for many volunteer organizations; a change in top management.

The departures of more experienced members of some organizations left existing volunteers holding the ropes, or has put new volunteers into managing positions where they may not feel comfortable, secure, or even supported in their new role at the top of the chain.

Having new faces at the head of an organization can often bring new ideas and procedures, but may also run the

danger of alienating or dividing moreexperienced volunteers.

The one thing every volunteer organization will need to survive and rebuild is resilience, and a willingness to change, and try new things, while respecting the underlying traditions the group may hold dear.

According to the Volunteer Management Progress Report, the past two years not only provided fewer opportunities to volunteer, but also fewer volunteers contributing time, with those active volunteers contributing fewer hours.

For those groups looking to expand their digital footprint, or recruitment strategies, Volunteer Alberta (volunteer alberta.ab.ca) has a number of resources available that may help.

Its mission is to strengthen and create pathways for volunteerism and civic engagement in Alberta.

As we know from the history of nearly every community in Alberta, strong groups of volunteers can accomplish amazing things that enrich and enhance our region.

Whether you are a member of a group that’s struggling, or is looking to plan for succession; or a volunteer looking for opportunities, Volunteer Alberta has great information and resources available.

Movember remains a proud fall tradition to raise awareness

If you spot more moustaches lingering over mens' upper lips this coming November, chances are your eyes are not deceiving you. November has long been synonymous with the start of the holiday season, but it's also taken on a whole new persona in recent years, and moustaches are a significant part of that new identity.

Arguably as popular as ever, Movember is a public health-focused effort designed to raise awareness of and support research into men's health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and suicide.

Men who participate in Movember typically begin growing moustaches on November 1 and keep them throughout the month.

The origins of Movember can be traced to 2003, when two men in Australia, Travis Garone and Luke Slattery, met for a beer in Melbourne. At that point in time,

the popularity of moustaches had waned, but Garone and Slattery joked about restoring the stache to its once-lofty status. At the time, a friend's mother was fundraising for breast cancer, and Garone and Slattery were inspired to combine their efforts to bring back the moustache with efforts to raise awareness about men's health and prostate cancer. In a testament to the two friends' skills in the art of persuasion, they were able to find 30 men willing to take up the challenge to grow a moustache. Those who accepted the challenge agreed to follow the rules of Movember, which included paying $10 to grow a moustache.

That initial campaign generated significant enthusiasm among the initial participants, so the following year a decision was made to formalize their efforts and officially support a worthy cause related to men's health. After some research,

prostate cancer was chosen as the issue to formally support. The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, though not an official men's health partner of Movember, agreed to accept any funds generated by the 2004 campaign. By that time, 450 men, including some in Spain and the United Kingdom, had agreed to take part, ultimately raising more than AUD

$50,000.

Nearly 20 years later, the moustachioed movement to raise awareness about various men's health issues is still going strong, having funded more than 1,250 men's health projects since its inception. Individuals interested in learning more about Movember can visit movember.com.