Wild West town bans ‘Wyatt Earp’

Chris Clegg
South Peace News

One of High Prairie’s most colorful characters was told March 20 he is banned from public facilities for one calendar year. Henry Ward, better known as ‘Wyatt Earp’, says he doesn’t understand why he is being banned. “They never told me,” says Ward. “This is ridiculous. I don’t know why (I am banned). They just gave me the paper.” Ward was confronted by High Prairie Special Constables Alan Bloom and Mark Morrical March 20 near the High Prairie Friendship Centre while Ward was picking bottles. They presented Ward with an official letter from the Town of High Prairie. Ward is banned from entering or accessing the following buildings and property surrounding the town office, Civic Centre and museum, McIntyre Park, the Sports Palace Arena, Curling Rink, High Prairie and District Regional Aquatic Centre, Jaycee Park and the nearby walking trails, the High Prairie Municipal Library and the 4800 Block of 53-54 Avenues. “If you are caught or observed anywhere with in the above-mentioned areas, you will be charged with trespassing,” reads the constables’ letter. Bloom says Ward was explained the reason for the ban when presented with the letter. “He’s aware of what he’s been doing wrong,” insists Bloom. Bloom adds the ban was only issued as a last resort but did not state the reason citing confidentiality. “We like to educate through warnings,” says Bloom. But repeated warnings had no effect on Ward. The letter does not state specifically why Ward is being banned. Ward says the letter should state the reason why. Bloom says he will discuss the matter with Town CAO Larry Baran. While he is not promising future letters will include reasons for a ban, Bloom says it is something that will be discussed. “We’ll look at it and review it,” says Bloom.

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