By Brandie Majeau
The Lions Club of Smoky Lake has been an essential part of community service
since 1947 and is making a renewed call for new members as it faces the challenge of
filling the shoes of its aging membership. With decades of contributions to local,
regional, and international initiatives, the club is at a crossroads, looking to inspire a
new generation to carry its legacy forward.
Founded and sponsored by the Andrews Lions Club, the Smoky Lake chapter
has been a driving force for positive change in the area. From providing a para-transit
bus and supporting Memorial Park to organizing pancake breakfasts and donating to
the food bank, the club’s impact is felt across every corner of the community. Other local
projects include funding public skating, swimming lessons, medical equipment,
playgrounds, and scholarships, as well as offering volunteer security at public events
and maintaining drop-off bins for clothes and toys.
But the Lions’ reach extends well beyond Smoky Lake. Internationally, the club
supports major initiatives such as the CNIB, Lions Eye Bank, Guide Dogs programs,
disaster relief, World Site Programs, and diabetes awareness through the Cavalcade.
“Lions Clubs are unique,” reads a recent brochure. “Lions clubs support sight programs,
assist the disabled, feed the hungry, and provide disaster relief,” but each club also
“Choose their own projects and activities,” based on the needs and interests of its
members and community.
Membership in the Lions Club is about more than volunteering. Members gain
valuable skills, develop leadership abilities, and forge connections with community
members and Lions around the world. The club highlights the personal and professional
growth that comes with service, as well as the satisfaction of making a real difference. 
With its motto “We Serve,” the Smoky Lake Lions Club is inviting community-

minded individuals to join their ranks. “Help us—help you!” they urge. As the club looks
to the future, it hopes to ensure that its tradition of service continues for generations to
come. The Lions Club of Smoky Lake is actively seeking new members. Like many
organizations, as members age and step back from duty there are often times when
there are not enough members of a younger generation stepping in to fill these spaces.
They are actively campaigning to increase awareness of who they are and what it
means to be a Lion. For anyone interested in more information about becoming a Lion
please find them on their social media pages or phone 780-777-2709.

By Brandie Majeau
The town of Thorhild wasn’t quite quiet on June 13 as its annual trade show
returned for another successful year, drawing families and visitors from everywhere for
a Saturday packed with entertainment, local flavour, and small-town fun. The event,
which has become a staple of the town’s social calendar, was made possible through
the dedicated efforts of volunteers and the collaboration of the Feledichuk Memorial Ball
Tournament and the Thorhild Community Association and the generosity of
sponsorships.
This year’s trade show featured over 40 vendor tables, showcasing a huge span
of local businesses, artisans, and community organizations. Attendees browsed
everything from handcrafted goods to home services.
Children were treated to an unforgettable experience in the Little Dipper
Daycare’s Kid’s Fun Zone, which transformed the arena into a wonderland of giant
games, a petting zoo, face painting, and prizes. The laughter of young visitors echoed
throughout the venue as they tried their hand at carnival games and enjoyed creative
activities. For aspiring cowboys and cowgirls, Little Rodeo Pro provided a thrilling
opportunity to compete in barrel racing, calf roping, and even bull riding, with kids eager
to outdo each other’s times.
The fun didn’t stop there, an indoor snow cone truck ensured that energetic
children could cool off after bouncing in the inflatable castles, or families could go on a
search to find the local lemonade stands and their unique lemonade blends set up for
Lemonade Day on June 13.
Throughout the weekend, the Thorhild Agricultural Society also organized a
town-wide garage sale, giving residents the chance to hunt for treasures and connect
with their neighbours. Meanwhile, the Thorhild Community Association hosted a perogy
dinner featuring mouth-watering Ukrainian delights from Zena’s Catering. Plates piled
high with hot, fresh perogies quickly sold out as crowds poured in.
As the sun set, those looking for the day to last a little longer gathered for a
family dance featuring acclaimed musician Travis Dolter, who is soon to perform at the
Big Valley Jamboree. Dolter’s energetic set, supported by his band and a guitarist who
proudly hails from Thorhild, kept the dance floor filled with two-stepping locals and
visitors.
The festivities concluded with a breathtaking fireworks display, a fitting finale that
lit up the night sky and was a reflection that celebrated the teamwork and volunteerism
that brought the weekend to life. This years trade show brought in record numbers and
a hope that it continues to grow.

By Brandie Majeau
Thorhild Library’s annual Spring Plant Exchange and Bake Sale once again
blossomed into much anticipated spring event and brought with it gardening enthusiasts
and locals who just like to browse and see what kind of horticultural treasures they can
find. True to its motto “bring a plant, exchange a plant, buy a plant” always provides a
perfect opportunity for residents to trade their surplus houseplants and perennials, while
hunting for new botanicals to add to their homes and gardens.
Throughout the day, guests dropped off their gardening extras and browsed the
tables of lush greenery, several people excitedly comandeering trays of tomatoes and
one couple on the hunt for purple irises. Many attendees relished the chance to swap
gardening tips, share stories and advide, and connect over a shared love of flowers and
gardening. The event, as always, also included a tempting bake sale offering sweet
treats, making it easy to reward oneself after a day of yard work in the spring sun.
The steady stream of patrons accentuated the event’s popularity, as people came
and went, filling the front lawn of the library grounds. The sense “spring is in the air” was
palpable, with local volunteers playing a crucial role in organizing and keeping the event
running smoothly. Their efforts became especially vital as the sky grew ominous and
dark clouds began to gather.
As the dark skies continued to move closer and build in its intensity, volunteers
sprang into action, quickly gathering up the remaining plants and securing them inside
the library just as a ferocious wind whipped out of nowhere and brought with it a cloud
of dust obscuring the town and eventually brought with it hail and torrential rain. The
event’s abrupt end didn’t dampen spirits, instead, it brought with it laughter and disbelief
over the sudden storm and gratitude that the day was so well attended that most baking
and plants had already been sold. For those who missed out, the library had made the
leftover plants available for purchase in the following days.
As the storm passed and the library settled into a quiet evening, organizers
reflected on another successful fundraiser. The proceeds of this annual event supports
library initiatives and proves that Thorhild Library (and the love of plants) continues to
grow.

By Brandie Majeau
Thorhild Minor Ball’s 2026 season is well underway, bringing with it a spirit of
camaraderie, sportsmanship, and innovation to the local baseball scene. As the crack of
the bat and the cheers of the crowd echo across the fields, parents and supporters rally
behind its young athletes, many of whom are already making a name for themselves.
The Thorhild Thunder U13 team, which has shown remarkable form early in the
season. In their most recent match-up against the Barrhead Royals, the Thunder played
with determination and skill. To date, the U13 squad boasts an impressive record,
tallying two wins and suffering just a single loss. The game against Barrhead brought
them a win of 24 to 19…at least player Brinell thinks that was the final score. The end
numbers were seemingly not really as important as the fun and excitement that built
throughout the game and evening. Brinell excitedly stated, “We won by 3! Or something
like that!” Coaches and parents alike credit the team’s success this year to their own
hard work, and the unity and supportive environment built by Thorhild Minor Ball.
This year, the association is introducing a fresh approach for its youngest
players. For the first time, the U7 division is combining girls and boys for practices,
though games remain separated. The experiment is off to a promising start, with 24
eager youngsters, equally split between girls and boys, taking to the diamond together.
According to coaches, the children have embraced the mixed practices wholeheartedly,
focusing on teamwork and skill development. “Even though they are playing mixed
teams, it doesn’t faze them…so proud of them!” said one proud coach.
Thorhild Minor Ball continues to encourage community engagement by inviting
baseball fans to attend games and support the teams. Looking ahead, the association
has announced plans to host a free drop-in event for aspiring players. The drop-in is to
give newcomers a taste of the game and possibly inspire them to join the league next
season.
With a season that promises excitement and so much opportunity for growth and
personal development, Thorhild Minor Ball is proving itself to be an ongoing contender
for youth sports in Thorhild County.

By Brandie Majeau
With recent heat wave bringing the arrival of (much) warmer weather, Lemonade
Day is fast approaching, and young entrepreneurs across the region are preparing to
showcase their business skills and refreshing recipes. In Thorhild, siblings Myles and
Maisy are leading the charge with their M&M Lemonade stand, set to serve up
delicious, cold drinks at the Thorhild Ball diamonds on June 13.
Lemonade Day is an annual event designed to teach children the fundamentals
of business ownership, from budgeting to marketing, all while having fun and engaging
with their communities. This year, as of the end of May, Myles and Maisy’s M&;M
Lemonade is the only officially registered stand in Thorhild. The siblings have been hard
at work perfecting their “secret thirst-quenching recipe,” and they are eager to welcome
customers during the upcoming ball tournament.
They are so excited to be back! The pair last hosted a lemonade stand two years
ago and have spent this spring preparing for this year’s event. Their stand will be
located at 302-7 Avenue, situated for both local residents and visitors attending the
games at the ball diamonds.
Organizers of Lemonade Day encourage everyone to support young business
owners by visiting local stands, whether in Thorhild or neighbouring communities. While
M&M Lemonade is currently the only stand in town, event coordinators remind would-be
customers to consult the Lemonade Day map online to discover other participating
stands in the area or in other local communities.
For Myles and Maisy, Lemonade Day is a little bit more than selling drinks. It’s a
lot of fun and this brother and sister duo also get to learn a lot about running a business
and working together. The siblings have divided up responsibilities, from designing eye-
catching signage to managing their finances and mixing and serving up their signature
citrusy beverage. This year they will be donating 75% of their proceeds to the Thorhild
Field of Dreams project with the other 25% going toward themselves to buy something

special after all their hard work.
With their enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit, Myles and Maisy are an
inspiration for other kids in Thorhild to participate in Lemonade Day in the future. As the
community gears up for one of Thorhild’s first big summer event, all thirsty taste buds
will be welcome at M&M Lemonade.
Be sure to stop by the Thorhild Ball diamonds on June 13 to sample what may
just be the best lemonade in town and support the next generation of local business
leaders.

Residents gathered at the Redwater RCMP detachment earlier this month as Citizens on
Patrol and local RCMP members hosted a community barbecue in celebration of National
Police Week.
Held May 13 at the detachment parking lot, the family-friendly event welcomed residents
for an afternoon of food, conversation and community engagement. Guests were invited to
enjoy free hot dogs, pop and chips while learning more about policing initiatives, crime
prevention and local volunteer programs operating within the community.
Visitors had the opportunity to meet local RCMP officers and speak with members of
Redwater Citizens on Patrol during the afternoon event. A Citizens on Patrol information
display was set up onsite, and promotional material for the barbecue noted that police
demonstrations and displays would also be part of the celebration.
One of the highlights for many families was the appearance of RCMP Safety Bear, who posed
for photos with officers and guests during the barbecue.
Members of Redwater Citizens on Patrol were present throughout the event, sharing
information about the volunteer-based crime prevention program and its role within the
community. Citizens on Patrol works in partnership with local RCMP detachments to
promote community awareness and assist with public safety initiatives.
The organization plays an active role in Redwater and surrounding area through patrols,
public awareness efforts and participation in local events. Volunteers help serve as
additional “eyes and ears” within the community while encouraging residents to remain
informed and involved in neighbourhood safety.
National Police Week is observed annually across Canada and is designed to strengthen
relationships between police services and the communities they serve. The week recognizes
the work of police officers, civilian staff and volunteers while also highlighting the
importance of crime prevention, education and community partnerships.
Communities across the country mark the week through open houses, school visits,

educational demonstrations, barbecues and family-oriented events aimed at encouraging
positive interaction between residents and law enforcement agencies.
Events such as the Redwater barbecue help create opportunities for residents to connect
with officers outside of emergency situations and everyday policing duties. Organizers say
those informal conversations and community interactions are an important part of building
trust, communication and public awareness.

The event also showcased the strong partnership between local RCMP members and
community volunteers, emphasizing the role collaboration plays in maintaining safe and
connected communities.
Judging by the turnout and positive response shared online following the event, this year’s
Police Week barbecue was a successful celebration of community spirit and local
engagement.

Pedgerachny contacted his insurance company soon after discovering the damage. An adjuster
later inspected the property.
“He told me they were fresh cracks from the earthquake,” he said.
According to Pedgerachny, the estimated repair costs are around $130,000, although that figure
could increase depending on engineering assessments and possible asbestos removal.
He later learned his insurance policy does not include earthquake coverage.
The earthquakes in the area were reported as induced seismic events connected to industrial
activity, something Pedgerachny says has been difficult to accept while dealing with the
aftermath.
“I’m wondering how many other people out there have damage like this,” he said. “This is
something that’s happening and causing a lot of damage to people.”
He described the experience as frightening and unlike anything he has ever experienced before.
“I’ve never gone through something like this in my life,” he said. “Just the noise alone was
scary.”
Two of Pedgerachny’s neighbours also felt the tremors. One initially believed a vehicle had
crashed into his home because of the force and noise of the shaking, although neither neighbour
reported any visible damage.
For Pedgerachny, however, the aftermath has brought ongoing uncertainty about the condition of
his home and what steps come next.
“My insurance company told me if I think the house isn’t safe, I should find somewhere else to
stay,” he said. “But how do you just get up and leave your home?”
He said the experience has also made him realize how important it is for homeowners to fully
understand their insurance coverage before a disaster occurs.
Pedgerachny is encouraging residents throughout the area to review their insurance policies
carefully and confirm whether earthquake-related damage is included in their coverage.
He also hopes others who may have experienced cracks, shifting, or other damage following the
earthquakes will come forward and share their experiences.
Residents wishing to contact Pedgerachny can reach him at 7802978341.

County release. “But we know we’re more prepared, better informed and stronger because
of the steps we’re taking together.”

watched her work tirelessly, push through challenges, and pour her heart into every step.”
“She is becoming such an amazing young girl, and seeing her achieve this is very special.”

The community will have an opportunity to support Emma’s journey during Redwater’s
town-wide garage sale on May 23, where the family will be hosting a fundraiser featuring
hot dogs, popcorn and lemonade from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 4628 49 Avenue in Redwater.
Funds raised will help cover travel and competition expenses for the trip to Ireland.
Amanda said the encouragement Emma has already received from the community has
meant a great deal to their family.
“It not only helps make Emma’s dream of competing at Worlds possible, but also shows her
that her hard work and dedication are recognized and celebrated by the community,” she
said.
“Your encouragement means the world to us and gives Emma extra motivation to shine.”