The Flagstaff County Podcast

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In this episode of the Flagstaff County Podcast, host Cary Castagna sits down with Lougheed Agricultural Society president John Snethun to explore the history behind the Lougheed Agricultural Fair.
John shares how the fair has evolved over the decades. He also discusses the volunteers who have kept it going, the role agriculture continues to play and why the event remains an important gathering for Lougheed and the surrounding region.
The 103rd Lougheed Agricultural Fair takes place Saturday, August 8, 2026. Visitors can look forward to a pancake breakfast, parade, livestock shows, family slow pitch, bench exhibits, children’s activities, market vendors, museum activities, a Show ’n Shine, a roast beef supper and much more.

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In this episode of the Flagstaff County Podcast, host Cary Castagna sits down with Chelsea Eshpeter to share the story behind Swinging for the STARS, an annual charity slow-pitch tournament held in Strome in support of STARS Air Ambulance.
Chelsea reflects on how the event began in memory of her father, Grant Eshpeter, who tragically passed away from an esophageal bleed, and how a family's loss grew into a community tradition that continues to bring people together for a life-saving cause.
The conversation explores the importance of STARS to rural Alberta, the incredible volunteer and community support behind the event, and what it means to honour Grant's legacy through a weekend of baseball, fundraising and giving back.
The 2026 tournament raised an incredible $31,028.50 for STARS Air Ambulance, and plans are already underway for next year's event on May 29–30, 2027.
Congratulations to Chelsea Eshpeter, who was recently nominated for a National Philanthropy Day Award in recognition of her dedication and leadership through Swinging for the STARS.
Watch Flagstaff County Podcast episodes:
 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa1ovI8UBoIhZF98RmhZ4-KZKpz2_W5l5
Learn more about Flagstaff County:
 https://www.flagstaff.ca

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In this episode of the Flagstaff County Podcast, host Cary Castagna sits down with Sarah Gibbard to discuss the inaugural Pioneer Day, taking place June 13 at Beacon Farms near Daysland.
Sarah shares the story behind the event, the inspiration for bringing people together through hands-on experiences, and how Pioneer Day aims to celebrate community, family, and the values that helped shape rural life.
From workshops and activities to food, vendors, and an evening concert featuring award-winning country artist Jarrid Lee, Pioneer Day offers an opportunity to rediscover the pioneer spirit while creating new memories with family and friends.
For more information and tickets, visit: 
 www.pioneerday.ca

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From a rural airstrip in Flagstaff County to the cockpit of a commercial airliner, this episode explores what it takes to turn a dream into a career in aviation.
Host Cary Castagna sits down with Aaron Forster, who grew up just outside Sedgewick, Alberta, learned to fly at Flagstaff Regional Airport, and now flies commercially with WestJet.
Aaron reflects on the early spark that drew him to aviation, the realities of flight training, and the path that led him to the flight deck. He also shares what life is like as a commercial pilot and offers advice for anyone considering a similar path.
The conversation also touches on growing up in Flagstaff County, the role of local opportunity, and the mindset required to pursue something bigger.

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Host Cary Castagna, Flagstaff County Communications Coordinator, sits down with Sgt. Andy Wetzstein, Commanding Officer of the Killam RCMP Detachment, to talk about the rollout of body-worn cameras in the region. 
Together, they explore how the program works, when cameras are used, and what the public can expect to see. 
Sgt. Andy also shares insight into digital evidence management, privacy safeguards, and how officers are adapting to this new technology in the field.