By Shelley Winger
Even in 2026, small businesses remain the heartbeat of towns like Redwater, Alberta. While
big-box stores and online shopping dominate larger cities, it’s the local shops, restaurants,
and services that keep Redwater running smoothly and give the community its unique
character.
Redwater Home Hardware is more than just a place to buy tools and supplies. Locals rely on
it for advice on home repairs and gardening, as well as for practical solutions to everyday
problems. The personal relationships built between staff and customers help make the town
feel welcoming and connected.
IGA Redwater plays a similar role, providing fresh food and household essentials while also
supporting local producers. By stocking products from nearby farms and suppliers, the
store strengthens ties within the community. Its friendly service and convenient offerings
make it an important part of daily life for residents.
Other small businesses, like Sue’s Teas & Treasures, contribute to Redwater’s unique
character by offering gifts, specialty teas, and artisan products not found in larger chain
stores. These shops create experiences that encourage residents to explore the town and
support its economy.
Kicks Saloon Bar & Restaurant adds another layer to Redwater’s community life. As a local
gathering spot, it not only serves food and drinks but also acts as a place where residents
connect, celebrate, and share experiences. Businesses like Kicks demonstrate that small-
town establishments often serve multiple roles, blending commerce with social and cultural
life.
Small businesses in Redwater are also adapting to the modern world. Many use social media
to promote events and sales, while some offer flexible hours, curbside pickup, or
collaboration with neighboring businesses for community events. These strategies help
keep them relevant and accessible to residents.
Supporting Redwater’s small businesses isn’t just about shopping locally—it’s about
sustaining the town itself. Each purchase helps owners thrive, creates jobs, and encourages

entrepreneurship in the community. Even in a digital era, the personal touch of these
businesses remain irreplaceable.
By choosing to support them, residents ensure that Redwater stays more than just a place to
live—it remains a vibrant, connected community with a strong sense of home.

By Shelley Winger

On a bend of the Redwater River, tucked among trees and rustic barns, sits a one-room

schoolhouse that’s no longer filled with students—but with stories. Den of Antiquity isn’t just an

antique shop. It’s a living patchwork of Alberta history, quirky charm, and offbeat treasures,

curated by Sophie and Rob Swiderski, a couple whose shared love of craftsmanship and design

quietly infuses every inch of the property.

Seventeen years ago, Sophie and Rob acquired the old Amelia schoolhouse, which had stood

along Highway 38 near Victoria Trail. They had it moved to their riverfront property,

where—almost like fate—it settled perfectly on an existing concrete pad. The size of the

building, along with its vintage character, helped shape what the shop would become.

Before launching their antique venture, the Swiderskis owned and operated Down to Earth

Landscaping Ltd. in Edmonton for over 30 years. Their work spanned outdoor design and

interior carpentry. “Landscaping often included interior work too,” Sophie explained. “And I’d

always had an interest in interior design. Eventually, everything started to fall into place.”

What followed was never meant to be a conventional antique store. Den of Antiquity is rooted in

the unexpected. Rather than specializing in rare or pristine collectibles, Sophie and Rob chose to

highlight the decorative, the functional, and the downright unusual pieces with a sense of

humour, history, or personality.

“We didn’t want anything too precious,” Sophie said. “Just quirky, useful, decorative items that

spark conversation.”

As interest grew, the couple expanded beyond the schoolhouse, adding barns across the property

to house furniture and larger items. Visitors are encouraged to take their time, stroll between

buildings, and even pause to visit the donkeys and horses that share the land. Many stay for a

riverside picnic or wander the grounds with friends and family.

“We really wanted it to be a place where people could slow down,” Sophie said. “To wander, to

explore, to enjoy the setting—not just shop and leave.”

Inside the barns and schoolhouse, the offerings range from the rustic to the refined. Primitive

farm furnishings, retro 1950s fabrics, granite curling rocks, split cane fishing rods, sleighs,

crocks, fine china, artwork—there’s no telling what you might find on a given day. “It’s diverse,”

Sophie said. “That’s what keeps people coming back. They know it’s never quite the same

twice.”

The couple sources many items from nearby residents who are downsizing or moving into care

homes. “We’re so lucky to have Redwater close by,” Sophie said. “People are generous with

what they pass on. And it’s lovely bumping into them at the Post Office or around town, hearing

the stories behind the pieces.”

The town itself has been essential to keeping things running smoothly. From hardware and

refinishing supplies to banking and tech support, the couple relies on Redwater businesses.

“Home Hardware has everything we could ever need for our projects,” Sophie said. “And CIBC

helps me sort out all the non-techie problems I tend to run into.”

Den of Antiquity’s roadside sign—marked by a vintage bicycle aloft—often draws in first-time

visitors who stop out of curiosity. Some come to browse, while others arrive with very specific

requests. One older gentleman once came in hoping to find a 1932 calendar with April missing.

Others, inspired by Pinterest, come hunting for unique wedding décor or pieces to transform for

personal projects.

“We love when people come in with a vision,” Sophie said. “They find something old, refinish it,

and give it new life. It becomes part of their story now.”

At its heart, Den of Antiquity is a creative space as much as it is a retail one. Sophie and Rob

have turned their shared eye for design into a destination that’s as much about experience as it is

about what’s for sale.

“It’s not about antiques, really,” Sophie said. “It’s about giving things a second life—and maybe

offering people a bit of an escape while they’re at it.”

For anyone with an appreciation for the unusual, the useful, or the beautifully imperfect, Den of

Antiquity offers more than just a place to shop. It offers the chance to slow down, wander a little,

and discover something with a story—just waiting for its next chapter.

By Brandie Majeau
The Community Dance Collective proudly opened its doors to aspiring dancers in
June 2024, marking an exciting new chapter in the little town of Waskatenau. Since
then, the studio has enjoyed a dynamic and fulfilling first dance season, culminating in a
remarkable performance at the Showcase Dance Festival held in Sherwood Park this
past weekend. The competitive team, comprising 47 talented dancers, displayed their
extraordinary skills across various dance disciplines and returned home with an
impressive collection of overall awards.
Among their accolades was the Overall Highest Mark for competitive ballet,
which highlighted the dancers’ technical precision and artistic expression. They also
earned the Runner-Up Highest Mark for their competitive lyrical/contemporary group
performance, demonstrating their versatility and creativity. In hip hop, the team was also
recognized as the Most Promising Competitive Group. Individual performances were
equally praiseworthy, with awards for Overall Highest Mark in both ballet and
lyrical/contemporary solos, and commendations for the Runner-Up Highest Marks in
lyrical/contemporary solos as well as Variety/Song and Dance/Tap solos. The
Community Dance Collective takes great pride in these achievements, which reflect
their dedication to high standards in both performance quality and choreography.
Currently, the studio welcomes students from Waskatenau as well as neighboring
communities including Lamont, Smoky Lake, and Thorhild. The collective is enthusiastic
about future growth and is eager to expand its classes and numbers. Interested
participants are encouraged to stay updated by following their Facebook page or
reaching out directly to the Community Dance Collective for exciting upcoming
information on summer camps, summer classes, and fall registration. As the Community
Dance Collective stated, “We have a really great club and some great instructors,” they
are filled with a passion to inspire the next season of dancers!

By Brandie Majeau
Winter is often perceived as a season of rest and renewal, inviting us into a world
of stillness, contemplation, and tranquility. However, it’s crucial to maintain an active
lifestyle during this chilly period, and even a simple walk can make a significant
difference. Engaging in recreational activities such as cross-country skiing, hiking, and
snowshoeing not only keeps us physically active but also offers a unique chance to
discover serene landscapes and hidden recreational spots that may be unfamiliar to
many.
Recently, the Smoky Lake County Heritage Board has encouraged community
members to explore a new nature trail located northwest of the Smoky Lake Golf
Course. To access this trail, residents are advised to head west along the golf course
road. After reaching the first right turn—just beyond the acreages—participants should
turn north. Continuing along this road, they will encounter the water treatment building,
which serves as a landmark indicating a path that leads to the scenic creek, perfect for
skiing. For those wishing to venture further, keeping to the north will lead to another
road that also connects to the nature trail. It’s important to note that individuals skiing or
hiking on this trail, as well as along White Earth Creek, do so at their own risk.
The Town of Smoky Lake had granted the Smoky Lake County Regional
Heritage Board permission to utilize a bobcat mulcher in October 2024. This equipment
facilitated the cutting of the trail, helping to create the defined and enjoyable outdoor
path. While the nature trail currently remains unnamed, there is a plan in place for public
input later this season, allowing community members to propose names. Once a name
is established, official trail name signs will be installed.
There are also plans underway for educational signage along the trail, providing
visitors with valuable ecological information about the surrounding environment. This
will enrich the outdoor experience, informing guests not only about the natural beauty
they are exploring but also about the ecosystem’s significance and the importance of
preserving it for future generations.

Photos courtesy of Smoky Lake County Regional Heritage Board

By Brandie Majeau

The Smoky Lake Registry Office, which had closed its doors in 2022, is now back

in operation. This is a welcome relief for the community, as the nearest location for

registry services was approximately an hour away. After a hiatus of nearly two years,

registry services are once again available within the Town of Smoky Lake.

The Registries at Smoky Lake launched with a soft opening at the end of July

2024, offering basic services as they received official government training. On

September 14, they were proud to hold their official grand opening. The grand opening

was met with many congratulations from the community members who took the time to

stop in and meet the staff and see the new office. The staff has been hard at work and

is looking forward to serving the Town of Smoky Lake. They will be open Tuesdays

through Fridays from 9 am to 5 pm and from 9 am until noon on the last Saturday of

every month.

The Registries at Smoky Lake extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who came

by for their grand opening. The overwhelming support and warm welcome from the

community has been truly inspiring. The support of the residents is what makes the

work meaningful, and the staff look forward to becoming an integral part of the

community.

By Brandie Majeau

The Radway Lions Club took great pride in bestowing the Dr. Patti Hill Fellowship

upon one of its distinguished members. This prestigious award is an honor, with one

member remarking that such opportunities to recognize their fellow members are few

and far between.

The Dr. Patti Hill Fellowship is an esteemed designation linked to the Lions Eye

Research Fund, which operates at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta.

Named in tribute to Dr. Patti Hill, a revered figure within Lions Clubs International, this

Fellowship serves as a symbol of recognition for commitment to the ideals of Lions

Clubs International. The funds generated through the fellowship play a vital role in

supporting the Lions Eye Research Fund, providing essential equipment and funding to

the Royal Alexandra Hospital Eye Institute of Alberta.

The Radway Lions Club not only had the privilege of nominating but also the

honor of presenting Lion Maurice Kruk for the prestigious Patti Hill Fellowship. During

the presentation, it was emphasized that Lion Maurice has demonstrated an unwavering

commitment to serving the community, both as a dedicated Lion and through his

involvement on various boards. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the

community, making him a truly deserving recipient of this fellowship.

The Radway Lions Club expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to

bestow the Dr. Patti Hill Fellowship upon Lion Maurice, who has been an integral part of

the club for 25 years. His leadership and dedication played a crucial role in ensuring the

club’s survival during a challenging period in 1998 when it faced the threat of folding due

to dwindling membership. It was through Lion Maurice’s unwavering commitment that

the club not only persevered but also thrived, and for that, he is held in high esteem by

his fellow club members.

Megan Suitor 

Redwater emergency crews responded to a grass fire on the evening of May 4. The fire was reported noth-east of the Redwater Transfer Station, and Redwater Fire Department crews were dispatched. The extremely hot, dry and windy conditions created difficult conditions, and the fire continued to spread in a northerly direction, with additional crews being called in to help control and contain the fire. The Town of Redwater also provided aid in creating a fire line with heavy equipment. 

Concerned residents were kept updated by the town throughout the evening with posts on Facebook and on the town website. The Emergency Coordination Centre was activated at 8:45 p.m. as a precaution. An update at 10:01 p.m. announced that the fire status had been changed to “held”, with the fire within a contained perimeter. 

Friday morning saw an outpouring of gratitude and support on Facebook for the crews that worked diligently to contain the fire in difficult conditions. 

Diane Pysmeny with the Town of Redwater passed on an update from the Fire Chief that the perimeter is contained. She added her praise to those who fought the fires. 

“We didn’t have to evacuate any residents, and there was no damage to structures. The crews did an amazing job,” she said. 

As of Friday, May 5, Range Road 215 remained closed for emergency crews to continue to monitor the fire, and residents were asked to avoid the area. The Redwater Transfer Station was also reported to remain closed for the week. 

Residents were reminded that a fire ban for both Redwater and Sturgeon County remained in effect. 

The first day of school is always an exciting time, and this year was no different at Redwater School. Buses lined up to drop off students and parents arrived to help their children get settled in for the new year.

There was a lot of excitement in the air as everyone anticipated the start of another great year at Redwater School.