Local News -

QDM comes to Vilna

admin — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 00:38:27 +0000

By Brandie Majeau
Who is Quick Dick McDick (QDM)? Quick Dick is a multifaceted Canadian
farmer, stand-up comedian, and YouTube content creator known for his unique blend of
humor that revolves around the nuances of Canadian politics, farming challenges,
energy issues, and the oil and gas industry. With a fearless approach to various topics,
he engages his audience with both wit and candor. Originally hailing from the small
community near Tuffnell, Saskatchewan, Quick Dick’s path took an interesting turn after
high school when he ventured into the oil patch in Brooks, Alberta.
In his early years, Quick Dick became deeply involved in the oil and gas sector.
He spent several years serving as the operations manager for an oilfield trucking
company, where he was responsible for coordinating and managing approximately 60
workers. During his time there, the company grew significantly, expanding its fleet from
a modest three trucks to an impressive 36. The company specializes in supporting
fracturing crews by supplying essential materials such as liquid CO2, nitrogen, and
various chemicals. However, the demanding nature of the industry took a toll on him, as
he often found himself in high-pressure situations and eventually frustrated by a
challenging economic landscape.
After nearly two decades in the oil patch, Quick Dick reached a turning point.
Feeling the weight of an intense lifestyle, he decided it was time for a change. He spent
an eye-opening summer on his Harley-Davidson, traversing over 25,000 kilometers and
visiting every province and territory in Canada that had accessible roads. This journey
allowed him to reflect on his life, and when he returned to his roots on the farm, he
discovered a profound sense of happiness and fulfillment almost instantly.
The Quick Dick McDick persona emerged humorously and unfiltered during his
initial forays into social media, starting with daily videos on Snapchat. However, since
those videos would only last a day, he evolved his content strategy and transitioned to
YouTube, where his candid and comedic style flourished. Today, his YouTube channel
boasts over 100,000 subscribers, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in
Canadian comedy.
Known for his coarse yet hilarious content, Quick Dick McDick has garnered a
loyal following. He will be performing live at the Vilna Cultural Centre on February 28,

Ticket availability can be found at the Vilna ATB or through the Town of Smoky
Lake.

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Radway Lions invest in some brain flakes

admin — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 00:35:50 +0000

By Brandie Majeau
The Radway Lions are kicking off 2025 with renewed enthusiasm as members
actively brainstorm innovative ways to create a positive impact on their community. One
of their recent initiatives included a visit to the Radway Library, where they presented
librarian Sandra Moschansky with a set of Brain Flakes.
Brain Flakes is a toy dedicated to its mission of nurturing the next generation of
engineers. It is centered around building confidence and promoting spatial learning
among children, perhaps paving the way for future innovators in the engineering field.
The Brain Flakes construction toy, characterized by its unique interlocking plastic
discs, is specifically designed to inspire creativity while enhancing cognitive
development. With these versatile discs, children can explore their imaginations and
construct a vast array of structures, ranging from simple geometric shapes to intricate,
complex designs. The experiential learning experience engages young minds and
serves as a fundamental stepping stone into the fascinating world of engineering and
design.
The Radway Lions felt that the high-quality STEM toy would be an excellent and
engaging addition to the library’s resources, aimed especially at enhancing youth
programming. It is a hands-on educational tool designed to spark curiosity and
encourage critical thinking among children and teenagers, just like a library does. The
Lions envisioned it as a catalyst for creative learning, helping to inspire young
innovators and problem-solvers in a fun and supportive environment.

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A HEARTwarming morning

admin — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 19:23:54 +0000

By Brandie Majeau
On February 4, the Thorhild Lodge warmly embraced a lively gathering of
children for a HEARTwarming morning dedicated to creativity and connection. This
delightful event artfully paired senior residents with young participants, cultivating an
engaging and enriching experience that bridged generations. Children and seniors
teamed up or worked independently to embellish uniquely designed Valentine’s hearts
using various colourful puzzle pieces. These pieces symbolized the beautiful
interconnection of their lives, intertwining stories and experiences in a tapestry of love.
As the crafting progressed, the air was filled with laughter and exuberant
conversations, as each heart evolved into a captivating canvas for personal tales and
shared memories. The results were creations that were not only visually stunning,
bursting with vibrant hues, but also rich in emotional depth and meaning. This
memorable endeavor was made possible through the generous support of H2H
Designs, who provided the hearts that served as the cherished foundation for this
special activity. This intergenerational gathering served as an ideal celebration of love,
kindness, and community spirit, effectively bridging the gap between young and old
while encouraging mutual understanding and respect.
Hosting intergenerational activities is crucial for promoting connections and
understanding between different age groups. These events can include collaborative art
projects, community gardening, storytelling sessions, or technology workshops where
younger participants are placed in teaching roles for an older generation. By engaging
individuals from various eras, it can promote the sharing of knowledge, skills, and life
experiences, which benefits society. Furthermore, these interactions can
help combat loneliness among seniors while providing younger generations with
valuable insights into history and tradition. Overall, creating opportunities for significant
dialogue and collaboration strengthens social bonds and cultivates a sense of belonging
among all ages and individuals.
Keep watch as the year unfolds for more opportunities for fun family activities
within the community of Thorhild and further opportunities to bring generations together.

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Thorhild Bulldogs take home the cup

admin — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 03:15:32 +0000

By Brandie Majeau
The Thorhild Central School Senior Boys High School Basketball team, the
Bulldogs, has been making waves, carving out a distinguished reputation with each
thrilling game. This remarkable collection of young athletes is fueled by an unwavering
determination to sharpen their skills and elevate their performance on the court. As the
2024/25 school sports season unfolds, the Bulldogs showcase an inspiring mix of
experience, with several players stepping into the gymnasium for their first taste of
organized basketball. Yet, driven by passion and teamwork, they are steadily climbing
the ranks towards victory.
Their prowess was on full display at the WJ Kallal Memorial Cup Tournament,
which took place at the Spirit Center in Westlock, AB, on January 25-26. During this
intense tournament, the Bulldogs faced formidable opponents and triumphed over
Living Waters with an impressive score of 93-79, conquered St. Mary’s (Westlock) 73-
48, and secured a nail-biting victory against Gerard Redmond (Hinton) with a score of
94-88 after a gripping overtime showdown. Eric Barto etched his name in the school’s
history by scoring an astounding 67 points against Living Waters. This record will be
celebrated as a monumental feat for himself and Thorhild Central School. Similarly,
Liam Kinshella, a determined ninth grader, showcased his clutch performance by
sinking a crucial basket with just one second left on the clock in the finals, propelling the
Bulldogs into overtime, where they ultimately emerged victorious. This triumph marked
the first time Thorhild claimed the WJ Kallal Memorial Cup since 1998, making the win a
monumental achievement and a source of immense pride for the team and the school
alike.
Head Coach Alex Purin remarked, “Winning this tournament was a testament to
the many hours the guys have put into their skills. This team represented themselves
and their school with pride and integrity. I am incredibly proud of their achievement and
their dedication this season. We look forward to what lies ahead.”
Facing more challenges ahead, their team motto “Nobody works like we do”
resonates in their minds. The Thorhild Central School Senior Boys High School
Basketball team remains focused and driven. The Bulldogs have their sights set on
conquering the zones in March, with the ultimate goal of advancing to the provincials, as
they continue to write their remarkable story on the court.

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A Canadian favourite, maple treats

admin — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 02:28:42 +0000

By Brandie Majeau
The long-awaited Family Day Long Weekend is fast approaching, and
communities across Canada and within local communities are gearing up as they
prepare for a variety of fun-filled festivities. These celebrations center around families
coming together, embracing the spirit of happiness and togetherness. If one takes a
moment to sift through the announcements for upcoming Family Day events, many
communities are emphasizing a return to Canadian roots and traditions. Among the
activities, maple candy, made, of course, on fresh snow, stands out, enticing locals and
visitors, appealing to that deep-seated appreciation for heritage that lies at the core of
every Canadian’s identity.
But what makes maple candy so unique, and why does it hold such a revered
place in Canadian culture? The history of maple syrup production in Canada is rich and
profound, dating back to the Indigenous peoples who first discovered the sweet, viscous
sap that flows from maple trees. These early Indigenous groups ingeniously tapped into
the trees by inserting wooden spouts, allowing the sap to flow freely. They would collect
it and boil it down into a syrupy elixir or a granulated sugar form, which was
incorporated into their diets. But the sap wasn’t just a sweet treat; it was also valued for
its medicinal properties, believed to promote healing and wellness. With a deep respect
for nature, the Indigenous peoples considered the maple tree sacred, woven intrinsically
into their cultural and social practices.
As time passed, the methods of collecting and processing sap evolved, yet the
passion surrounding maple syrup has remained firmly rooted in Canadian history.
Markedly, historical figures such as Jacques Cartier have even been linked to this
connection of syrupy treats; historians mention Cartier recounting how he drank the sap
from a felled walnut tree and likened it to fine wine.
The Family Day Long Weekend is just around the corner, and the spirit of
individual communities comes alive, inviting everyone to partake in their unique
celebrations. A moment’s pause reveals several activities beyond the usual winter
pastimes, like ice skating and cozy bonfires. The enticing offers of maple candy and
toffee twirl through the air, calling out to something deep within—a connection that
resonates at the very heart of a Canadian’s essence. These treats, with their sweet, rich
flavours, evoke cherished memories and celebrate the warmth of community in the crisp
winter air.
It has become a tradition emerging over time. After a fresh snowfall, especially as
the trees begin to wake from their winter slumber, sap is collected, boiled, and poured

into the snow (watch that it’s clean snow) and eaten as maple candy pieces or rolled
onto sticks and enjoyed as maple lollies. Watch carefully for upcoming events that may
feature this tasty Canadian heritage treat, or (at one’s own discretion) give it a try.

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Windows in Redwater come to life

admin — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 02:19:45 +0000

By Brandie Majeau
In a spirited embrace of the new year, a passionate group of Redwater locals
braved the brisk winter chill to breathe vibrant life into a block of Redwater. Clad in
warm layers, this dedicated crew gathered an exciting palette of chalk markers and
acrylic paints, each artist eager to transform the clear glass windows of several local
businesses: the Redwater Art Gallery, the Redwater Museum, and Redwater Home
Hardware.
Their mission was clear and expressive: to craft visually stunning images that
would not only catch the eye of those passing by but also uplift their spirits. The team
was a delightful blend of talent and creativity, featuring Ty Reid, Addison Reid, Olivia
Reid, Zack Hruschak and Malik Hruschak, Lea Cook, Kevin Bigelow, Terry Hannah, and
Jeannie Hare. United in their goal, they embarked on the ambitious endeavor of
enhancing their town’s charm—each stroke of their brushes contributing splashes of
emotive color and artistic expression.
As the artists poured their creativity onto the glass, the once-blank windows
began to shimmer with life, showcasing a mesmerizing array of designs that captured
the very essence of their community. Swirls of color, enchanting scenes, and playful
motifs took shape, transforming the streetscapes into a gallery of joy and inspiration.
The end result was nothing short of spectacular, breathing new life into the area and
sparking a renewed sense of local pride.
A heartfelt thank you is extended to each person who wielded a paintbrush and
who weathered the brisk morning, displaying their unwavering commitment to nurturing
the community and bringing a delightful splash of color to life on every window!

Photos courtesy of Redwater Art Society

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Municipal politicians in the making

admin — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 02:15:34 +0000

By Brandie Majeau
The Grade 6 class at H.A. Kostash School recently embarked on an exciting
educational adventure that took them beyond the traditional classroom walls. This
unique opportunity allowed the students to attend a Smoky Lake County Council
meeting, where they gained invaluable insights into the workings of local government.
During the meeting, all the councillors, along with Reeve Serben, graciously
dedicated their time to engage with the students. They patiently answered a wide range
of questions, enabling a deeper understanding of community governance and civic
responsibility. The students were particularly intrigued by the various discussions
surrounding local issues, which illuminated the significant role that councillors play in
shaping their community.
In addition to observing the council in action, the Grade 6 class participated in a
spirited practice debate centered around a bylaw pertaining to cats. This firsthand
experience allowed them to flex their own political skills, advocating for their viewpoints
and considering the perspectives of others in a democratic setting. The combination of
observation and participation made for an enriching experience, enlightening the
students about the intricacies of local politics and encouraging their interest in civic
engagement.
Kevin Lucas, Smoky Lake County CAO, remarked on the attendance and
discussions of the H.A.Kostash grade 6 class, “They all debated the conversation
respectfully and meaningfully, respecting each others’ opinions and points of view,
building from what seemed simple to needing more information. We (Administration)
were taken by their maturity and demeanour. In fact, three election cycles from now and
we could see any of their names on a municipal ballot!”

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Kinette Club of Smoky Lake celebrates 10 years

admin — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 02:14:00 +0000

By Brandie Majeau
In November, the Kinette Club of Smoky Lake proudly commemorated a
significant milestone: its 10th anniversary. This special occasion was not only a
celebration of a decade of service and dedication but also an opportunity to reflect on
the numerous achievements the club has made within the community over the years.
The anniversary event was graced by esteemed Kin Dignitaries, who joined the
club members in recognizing the impact of their local initiatives and programs.
Throughout its ten-year journey, the Kinette Club has worked tirelessly to support
various community projects, uplift those in need, and create a spirit of collaboration
among residents.
Looking forward, the Kinette Club of Smoky Lake is filled with optimism and
excitement as they set their sights on the next ten years. Their commitment to
addressing the evolving needs of the Town of Smoky Lake remains unwavering, and
they are eager to continue their mission of serving the community in meaningful ways.
The club extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported their
fundraising efforts over the past decade. Their successes would not have been possible
without the generous contributions from numerous sponsors, whose support helped
make the 10-year anniversary celebration a truly memorable event that honored the
club’s rich history. As they embark on this new chapter, the Kinette Club is more
determined than ever to make a positive difference in the lives of those in their
community and invites others to join in their mission.

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I spy…a great grey owl

admin — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 02:12:53 +0000

By Brandie Majeau
Great Grey Owls, with their striking features and haunting presence, are one of
Nature’s most captivating birds. Known for their extraordinary size and unique
appearance, they often evoke a sense of awe. Many individuals may hear them calling
from a thicket of trees or catch a fleeting glimpse of the Great Grey as it dives from its
perch, however, the reality is that most people will go their entire lives
without ever encountering this bird in the wild. This rarity can be attributed to their
tendency to inhabit remote areas and the limited data available regarding their actual
population numbers, as indicated by federal wildlife agencies.
Great Grey Owls are not known for their communal behaviors; they do not flock
and generally do not migrate long distances. Instead, they typically remain in the same
geographical region throughout the year, breeding and wintering within the same areas.
The population of these owls is known to fluctuate significantly, largely influenced by the
cyclical changes in the populations of their primary prey.
In Canada, the preferred habitat of Great Grey Owls consists of dense, wet
evergreen forests, located in the farther northern regions. These owls are adept
hunters, often found foraging in meadows, fields and predominantly open spaces.
Human activities, particularly forest harvesting, pose the greatest threat to their
populations. The removal of crucial perch and nesting trees diminishes the quality of
their breeding habitat, making it increasingly difficult for them to thrive.
Despite their elusive nature, there has been a noticeable increase in sightings of
Great Grey Owls this year. For instance, a recent drive along a 40-kilometer stretch of
highway yielded an astonishing twelve owls perched in treetops, on fence lines and
upon power poles. This upsurge in visibility can largely be explained by the owls
irruptive behavior. Irruptive species, such as the Great Grey Owl, experience occasional
years where their numbers exceed the norm, prompting them to wander further afield
than usual.
The underlying causes of these irruption years remain somewhat elusive and are
not yet fully understood. However, several theories have emerged. One prominent
explanation revolves around food availability during the breeding season. In years when
prey populations are significantly abundant, Great Grey Owls may lay a greater number
of eggs, leading to higher survival rates among the hatchlings. This population boom
can result in increased competition for territory, forcing some owls to migrate south in
search of new winter habitats. Alternatively, irruption years may also occur due to a
shortage of food within their typical winter range, compelling them to journey further
south to hunt for sustenance.

Conducting thorough research on Great Grey Owls poses challenges due to their
preference for remote, hard to access habitats. Nevertheless, despite the difficulties in
understanding the precise dynamics of their population fluctuations, bird enthusiasts are
fortunate to enjoy the breathtaking sight of these magnificent creatures during irruption
years.

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Town of Redwater announces the Re-Imagine Redwater Grant Program

admin — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 03:34:40 +0000

By Brandie Majeau
The Town of Redwater is excited to announce the launch of the Re-Imagine
Redwater Grant Program, designed to provide financial incentives to storefront business
owners who hold a valid business license within the community. This initiative aims to
enhance the visual appeal and overall safety of the town through targeted beautification
efforts.
The Re-Imagine Redwater Grant Program offers an exciting opportunity for
eligible businesses to enhance their properties with financial support. Through this
program, businesses can apply for a grant that matches 50% of their project costs, for
projects up to $5,000. This funding is specifically aimed at supporting a wide range of
exterior improvements, which may include beautifying storefronts, integrating upgraded
accessibility features, and implementing safety enhancements that adhere to the
program’s established guidelines.
Business owners are strongly encouraged to seize this chance to refresh their
storefronts, thereby elevating the overall aesthetic and inviting atmosphere of Redwater.
Not only will these improvements benefit individual businesses, but they will also
contribute to the community’s charm and appeal.
For detailed information regarding the application process, eligibility criteria, and
specific guidelines of the grant program, please visit the official website of the Town of
Redwater.
If businesses have completed application forms or any questions, they can reach
out via email at devofficer@redwater.ca, or contact their office directly at 780-942-3519
ext. 330. It’s truly exciting to anticipate the positive transformations that these ambitions
will bring to the Town of Redwater!

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