FREE: December 11 Tofield Mercury by Caribou Publishing

Last chance to buy a gift for a child from the Angel Tree located in the Tofield and Ryley Post Offices! Story inside

Tofield RCMP detachment fire deemed arson

Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

“Tofield RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in relation to a fire that occurred at the Tofield RCMP detachment. That fire, which took place in the early morning hours of Dec. 2, has now been deemed an arson by investigators,” the RCMP release says.

“Police are looking to identify and speak with anyone who may have been in the area between the hours of 2:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. on Dec. 2, and observed suspicious activity. Anyone with information is asked to contact Tofield RCMP at 780-662-3352. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the ‘P3 Tips’ app.”

Tofield RCMP detachment members have been temporarily relocated to the Town of Tofield Council Chambers, and

the public is able to obtain their criminal record checks there, among other services.

“The temporary office will have support staff to conduct criminal record checks, collision statements, and take complaints on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m,,” the release says.

The Tofield detachment’s phone lines, 780-662-3353 for administration and 780-662-3352 for non-emergencies, remain active.

“Please be advised that our phone lines

have been forwarded and the numbers have not changed,” the release says.

In an update to Tofield Town Council during their regular meeting on Monday, Dec. 9, acting detachment commander Cpl. Stephen Cunningham said that the detachment may get an ATCO trailer to use in the interim.

“They're looking at an ATCO trailer, which sounds like the best option for the time being. They do have to upgrade it to RCMP specs for us to use and then we will be in touch with

(CAO) Cindy(Neufeld) and (Assistant CAO) Jeff (Edwards) about a possible location. From my understanding, it’s going to be about eight to 10 weeks for them to build it and have it ready to go,” he said.

Cpl. Cunningham also said he is going to work on getting a sign installed at the Tofield detachment so that if any members of the public go there in order to receive assistance, the Tofield RCMP’s temporary location, hours, and contact information will be listed.

Ryley annual turkey dinner fundraiser a hit

Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

The Beaver Heritage and Ag Society held their annual turkey dinner fundraiser for the Ryley Pool and Wellness Centre on Thursday, Dec. 5 at the Ryley Community Centre. They prepared for about 160 people and pool manager Susie Williams said the dinner was really well attended.

“I think we had a really good turnout. The food was great, and we’re thankful to everybody for coming,” she said.

Those who came out for the meal were treated to the works: salads, mixed vegetables, stuffing, buns, turkey, cranberry sauce, potatoes,

gravy, desserts, coffee, and tea.

This year Ryley School students helped out with the dinner, adding to the number of volunteers involved each year.

“We always have wonderful volunteers, and the school helped us out lots, with both clean up

and preparation. The students came and dished up the plates and things like that,” Williams said.

The funds raised from the dinner go towards the operation and maintenance of the pool. Most recently one of the three boilers was replaced, as it was nearing 48 years old.

“It is preventative maintenance. The pool is going to be 50 years old in 2026, and we've replaced the third boiler after 48 years. That's

quite a lot for each boiler, because they run continuously whenever we're open,” Williams said in an earlier interview.

“It’s all replaced, and up and working great. The water is nice and warm, so everybody should come for a swim,” she said.

The structure fire that Tofield and Holden fire departments attended on Monday, Dec. 2 at 5:34 a.m. located at the Tofield RCMP detachment was deemed an act of arson one week after the incident, on Monday, Dec. 9. Here fencing was set up, pictured two days after the fire on Wednesday, Dec. 4. LISA KUFLAY PHOTO

Nearly full house for Churchmice Players Christmas comedy

Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

The Churchmice Players have completed three of the six shows for their latest production at the Bailey Theatre in Camrose, entitled A Good Old-Fashioned Big Family Christmas, a comedy by Pat Cook.

“The opening show was fabulous. Beyond expectations,” said director Rayna Pohorelic.

“Camrose and community came out and supported the Churchmice players well. I think we were six seats from being full.

“I think it was one of the best opening nights I've ever seen. Thursday night is usually hard to fill, and it was packed,” she said.

Set in the 1980s, Judith Stewart, played by Erin Hammond, concerned by her parent’s constant bickering, jumps on the idea to host an old-fashioned family Christmas get-together, though her husband Hayden, played by Trevor McTavish, will tell you it was hardly his idea.

Judith’s sisters Carla and Beth, played by Tina Myles and Mellisa Prost, join in on the grand plans but their own husbands are none too pleased at what their involvement in the traditional Christmas experience might have to look like.

The show is a fun, family-friendly way to introduce the holiday season.

There are two more dinner shows this

weekend, Dec. 13 and 14, and a matinee on Sunday, Dec. 15. Tickets for the dinner and show cost $69, and show-only tickets are available for $30.

When asked how the cast was feeling on opening night, Thursday, Dec. 5, Pohorelic says everyone handles the anticipation uniquely.

“Everybody's a little bit different. Some of them pace, some put their music on, some chatter, but the energy was vibrant, and they were all excited about it. We had one theatre virgin on stage, the first time he's been on stage acting, and he, Patrick St. Dennis, did phenomenal,” Pohorelic said.

This is the third production Pohorelic has directed, but her first for

the Churchmice Players. When asked what she enjoyed most about directing this Christmas comedy, Pohorelic said every bit of it.

“It amazes me that I can give a book with words in it to these people, and they're from all different sorts of walks of life, all different ages, and they

come together, and they create magic on stage. Just seeing the camaraderie and the theatre family come together, it's just magical,” she said.

Wednesday, December 18: 9:30 am - Hamper packing day! Lunch provided for

Thursday, December 19: 1 pm - Hamper packing (perishable items) 3 pm - Hamper pick-up and delivery ** Drivers needed in Tofield. Please contact Tofield/Beaver County west FCSS at 780-662-7067

KARI JANZEN PHOTOS

The Churchmice Players have completed three of the six shows for their latest production at the Bailey Theatre in Camrose, entitled A Good Old-Fashioned Big Family Christmas, a comedy by Pat Cook.

The Churchmice Players have completed three of the six shows for their latest production at the Bailey Theatre in Camrose, entitled A Good Old-Fashioned Big Family Christmas, a comedy by Pat Cook. Centre, Judith Stewart, played by Churchmice Player Erin Hammond, speaks on the phone while the cord wraps around her husband Hayden's neck, played by Trevor McTavish. On the couch teenage daughter Phoebe, played by Khia Clayton, is upset that her skiing plans have not been approved.

Edmonton woman wins the $52K from Tofield Ag Society lottery

Kelsey Witham Staff Reporter

The winner of the Tofield Agricultural Society’s Take a Year Off Lottery winner was announced on November 30, during the Town of Tofield’s Winterfest weekend.

Shannon Yaremchuk was the lucky grand prize winner of $52,000.

“I never thought something like this could happen to me,” Yaremchuk said. “I am astonished, humbled, and grateful for this raffle win,” she said. Seven others were awarded with cash prizes, five of which were local to Tofield, and two winners reside in Sherwood Park. Tofield winners collecting between

$5,000 and $500 include Maxine Henriksen, Jessica Thom, Wes Lawson, Ronald Morgan, and Dalia Chakra.

A total of $113,000 in tickets were purchased through the lottery, held to raise money for phase 2 of the Tofield Arena upgrades.

“I am so appreciative and grateful for the support that we’ve gotten,

not only from locals but from people all over Alberta,” Town of Tofield Recreation and Facilities coordinator Vanita Eglauer said.

“Strathcona Minor Hockey was a huge help with this fundraiser; they got us across the finish line, so we are very grateful for them,” Eglauer said.

“The Tofield Arena is a huge asset to the community, and we are excited to be on track for the needed upgrades to help improve the amenities that Tofield has to offer. There will be more fundraising for the facility in the future, and the lottery seems to be one that people enjoy, so it is possible that we will bring it back again,” said Eglauer.

More teenage gifts among angel tree donations needed this year

Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

Greg Litwin of the Tofield Community Christmas Hamper program says this year there are more teenage angel tree gift requests than usual, and that the trees are still available despite the postal strike.

“I think we're seeing a bigger need this year for older kids, teenage kids,” Litwin said. “If the angels are picked up within the next little while, they must be brought back by Friday, December 13.

Right now, we've seen that quite a few angels have gone out, but we haven’t seen all of them come back yet.”

Litwin said even if there are no angels left on

the tree, they also accept family gifts like games and puzzles that can be added to hampers as well.

“Gift cards also work, if necessary, and some of the angels even have designated items like cosmetics that say a specific store, so that would be awesome, too” he said.

Litwin said all of the hampers will be delivered on Friday, Dec. 19, with all the packing happening at the Tofield Community Hall on Thursday, Dec. 18.

“If anybody wants to come help, we’ll be starting at 10 a.m., and going until we’re finished. Last year we did 100 hampers, and I think we're going to be at an increase from last year,” he said.

Shannon Yaremchuk was the grand prize winner of the Tofield Agricultural Society’s Take a Year Off Lottery, winning $52,000, presented by Cindy Neufeld, Ag Society Secretary/Treasurer.

Young families meeting weekly for playgroup in Tofield

Kelsey Witham Staff Reporter

Every week Tofield Beaver County West Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) organizes a parent and tot playgroup for local families to enjoy.

The group is named ‘Kid Spot,’ and they meet for two hours on Wednesday mornings at the Tofield Community Hall.

A snack, which usually

includes fruit, crackers, juice, and coffee, are provided free of charge. Event weeks such as Christmas, Halloween, and Valentine’s Day have themed crafts and treats to suit the holiday.

A table of crafts and a gym full of toys are provided every week for the children. The new coordinator of the program, August Ross, shared that she loves "seeing and meeting new families in the community.”

“I am currently taking my master’s in psychology and counselling, so seeing how kids interact, grow, and develop, is very interesting to me,” she said.

Ross has spent most of her life living in Tofield and has volunteered and contributed to the community in various ways, now welcoming and interacting with the families who attend the playgroup program.

“We usually see around

five to eight families each week, depending on the weather,” Ross explained.

The program caters to children ages 0-6, but all children are welcome to attend with a caregiver.

• Friday, Dec. 6- Noon Deadline to ORDER New Printing for 2024 pickup (still working on existing orders in this time, new orders may not be ready until January due to print shop holidays)

• ***Friday, Dec. 13 - 5PM Deadline to book Ads or Submit News for Wednesday, Dec. 18 edition (production day moved up due to print restrictions)

• ***Tuesday, Dec. 17 - 3PM Deadline to Book Regular Ad or Christmas Greetings Ad in FINAL paper of 2024

• Wednesday, Dec. 18 - NEW PAPER comes out at regular locations

• Wednesday, Dec. 18 - Noon Deadline to come in and Donate to Fill the Tree campaign for Christmas Sharing Program

*any names that come in after Wednesday will be acknowledged in the New Year’s edition*

• Friday, Dec. 20 - MERCURY OFFICE CLOSED

• Monday, Dec. 23 - FINAL PAPER OF 2024 HITS STORES & PICK-UP BOXES! May be available early in Tofield starting Friday afternoon with pick up available at Mercury office in front foyer. If Canada Post strike persists, which seems likely, papers will be left out at current pick-up locations for entirety of Christmas break.

• Tuesday, Dec. 24 - Wednesday, Jan. 1 - OFFICE CLOSED

There will be no response to any messages during this time due to staff holidays. We will still be receiving payments and submissions via mail (hopefully) and email & subscriptions can be renewed online or by e-transfer - adsmercury@gmail.com - use secret answer ‘mercury’

• Thursday, Jan. 2 & Friday, Jan. 3 - OFFICE OPEN

Some staff may still be away and unavailable for contact due to holidays

• Monday, Jan. 6 - OFFICE OPEN Normal hours & operations resume

• Wednesday, Jan. 8 - First Edition of 2025 - normal deadlines

KELSEY WITHAM PHOTO

A little girl enjoys her time spent at Kids Spot, a weekly parent and tot playgroup organized by Tofield FCSS and held in the Tofield Community Hall.

The Alberta Legislature wrapped up its fall session on Dec. 4 and during the time MLAs were sitting, 13 bills were passed into law. These included an update to the Alberta Bill of Rights, three bills affecting transgender and non-binary people pertaining to pronoun use in schools, genderaffirming health care for youth, and participation in women’s sports; a bill allowing creation of all season resorts on Crown land and a Sovereignty Act motion against the federal government’s proposed emissions cap on oil and gas.

And just to show, besides there being a visitors gallery at the Legislature, where school children and guests of MLAs can watch the proceedings, there is also a peanut gallery.

That is currently the home of provincial NDP leader Naheed (No Seat Nenshi).

True to his party's subservience to the federal party led by Justin Trudeau’s greatest cheerleader Jagmeet Singh, Nenshi has done nothing constructive since being chosen

Nenshi gets failing grade after session wraps up JOHN’S RANT OPINION

leader of the provincial wing of the party.

He stayed true to form Dec. 5 during a press conference when he joked, “There is some good news. Danielle Smith got on Fox News. I think she fulfilled her life goal.

“The only things they had to say on health care and education were, ‘Let’s make sure vulnerable kids are more vulnerable in schools and in the doctor’s office’,” said Nenshi.

When asked when he would seek a seat in the Legislature, he declined to give a direct answer. It’s obvious he likes sitting in the peanut gallery.

Meanwhile the NDP house leader Christina Gray said over the last five weeks of the session, the Province has not prioritized issues of education or health care and has failed to make Alberta more affordable.

“Danielle Smith’s agenda this session was all about helping Danielle Smith,” Gray said.

When asked, Gray said the NDP had tabled 26 amendments to the bills during the session, but all had been

defeated.

Nenshi said the majority of the work MLAs do happens “outside of the dome” and they plan to continue their work on behalf of Albertans.

“We are dispersing across the province now to continue to talk to Albertans about the real challenges they’re facing,” Nenshi said.

Now I’m sure Nenshi and some of his socialist sycophants are hoping to win over lots of support in such locations as Marwayne, Bawlf, Oyen, or Bellis.

I really just can’t see that happening.

However he might have some fun meeting with himself in the local coffee shop.

Can Nenshi really think he’s going to have an impact in Fort McMurray after his group in the Legislature at his bidding voted against the UCP motion to invoke the Sovereignty Act opposing the Liberal move to cap oil and gas production.

If this draconian measure were to move ahead

I can’t see those workers who have suddenly lost their jobs in Fort McMurray, or any other oil and gas producing jurisdiction in Alberta, would be racing to the polls to put an X next to Nenshi’s name.

More like they would put the X right through it.

As Alberta Government Whip Shane Getson stated, “No wonder Nenshi is Trudeau’s choice for Alberta. He does his work with not even a second thought of the drastic impact it

has on everyday Albertans.”

By failing to oppose the emissions cap, Getson said the NDP has “put the political interests of their friends in Ottawa ahead of Albertans’ prosperity.”

He added it is a disgrace and an attack on the economy and future.

One has to wonder why the NDP, the workers’ party, won’t fight for the livelihoods of Albertan workers.

JOHN MATHER

Kerry Anderson Publisher Lisa Kuflay Manager

John Mather Reporter Jana Semeniuk Reporter

Kate Priestley Office Assistant Michelle Anderson Payroll Administrator Crystal Moren Production Kari Janzen Reporter

RCMP Report

On November 25, Tofield RCMP received a complaint of a fraudulent paychecks totalling 33 thousand dollars. Investigation is in its early stages.

On November 26, RCMP received a complaint from ATCO that one of their work sites on Range Road 154 in Beaver County was hit by thieves who stole a large amount of copper wire.

Police are working with ATCO security team and awaiting security footage from the area.

On December 1 at 3

a.m., Tofield RCMP were dispatched to a travel trailer on fire at a residence on Range Road 192 in Beaver County. Members attended along with the fire department and learned the fire was non suspicious.

However, police learned the travel trailer was stolen out of Bonnyville.

The occupant who was residing in the travel trailer was arrested for possession of stolen property and charged accordingly.

This past week, Tofield

members started their dayshift earlier to make patrols along the bus routes and school zones in our communities.

Member attended the Tofield Winterfest parade and handed out candies to kids along the parade route. Even though it was freezing out, it was nice to see everybody having a fun time.

On December 2 at 3:30 a.m., Tofield responded to a sudden death near Holden. A 72 year old male was located deceased in his residence. The death is believed to be from natural causes and not suspicious in nature.

On December 2 at 5:30 a.m., Members were advised of a fire at the RCMP Detachment. The fire is suspicious in nature and the investigation has been taken over by the EAD General Investigation Team.

On December 3 at 10 a.m., Members were dispatched to a male in the Town of Tofield who r eported to family he was going to kill himself by jumping in front of a vehicle.

Members were able to locate the male who was

having a mental health crisis and was apprehended and transported to the Ponoka Hospital.

Members quick response to this incident prevented a tragedy from occurring.

On December 4, members received a complaint from a Beaver County resident who was a victim of a Crypto currency investment scheme where he believed he was investing 2.1 million to make 7.1 million, however now cant withdraw any of his money.

This is a large complex investigation and is being assisted by the RCMP Financial Crimes.

On December 8 at 8 p.m., members were dispatched to a complaint of an abandoned trailer and side/side on Range Road 191 in Beaver County.

Members attended and learned that the trailer and side/side was reported stolen out of Edmonton.

Large Crypto scam targeting Beaver County residents

Members are attempting to find CCTV in the area to identify the vehicle hauling the stolen property.

Also reported and attended to by Tofield RCMP were:

2 - Assistance to Canadian Police Non RCMP

1 - Assistance to Provincial Agency 2 - Breach of Peace

- Child Welfare

- Crime Prevention

- Dog Act 1 - False Pretences over 5000

Mischief obstruct enjoyment of property

- Mischief damage to property

- Impaired operation of a motor vehicle 5 - Other Moving Traffic Violations

- Theft over 5000 3 - Possession of property obtained by crime 5 - Suspicious person/vehicle

- Shoplifting

- Traffic Collision

Sunshine Villa brings out the competition for a board game night

Cassandra Lundbek Staff Reporter

Residents of the Sunshine Villa in Tofield and their guests gathered to enjoy the Villa’s first-ever Christmas Board Game Night on Friday, December 6.

The dining room was a welcoming space, complete with sweet treats and a hot chocolate bar stocked with marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles, to add a cozy holiday touch.

Residents were encouraged to invite family and friends to join in the fun, either by choosing from the wide variety of games provided by the Villa or bringing their own favourites to share.

More than 20 people attended, spending the evening visiting and playing games such as Phase 10 and Tile Rummy. While there were many games to choose from, card games seemed to be the crowd favourite. Activity Coordinator

Bethany Dupuis noted that this was the first event of its kind since the onset of COVID-19. Before the pandemic, the Villa used to host a Christmas dinner where families were invited, and she was thrilled to see a turnout higher than expected for this new event.

Dupuis also shared that she is always on the lookout for seniorfriendly games to include in future events or to add to the residents’ collection. The Villa welcomes game donations to keep their selection diverse and engaging.

Make sure they know you want your vehicle brought to

You can choose where your vehicle is taken for repair unless:

Your vehicle is impounded

You’re unable to express your wishes or

You don’t have written emergency instructions

Due to the postal strike:

Subscribers can pick up their paper at the:

-Tofield Mercury office (open M-F 8:30am to 5pm)

-Tofield Municipal Library (open M-F 9:30am to 5pm, Sat. 9:30am to 2pm, & until 8pm on Wed. & Thurs.)

-Beaver County office in Ryley (M-F 8:30am to 4:30pm)

-Village of Holden office (M-F 8:30am to 4:30pm but closed during the noonhour for lunch)

Please donʼt hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Call or text 780-662-4046, email adsmercury@gmail.com, or visit us 5312 50 St. Tofield. Congratulations to Theresa Manderson & Robert Cameron the December 11 winners of the Free Subscription Draw!

-Spilstead Hall

AND, until the strike is over, the weekly edition will be available for free viewing online on patreon.com (search Caribou Publishing) or issuu.com (search Tofield Mercury).

Papers also continue to be available for sale at local stores.

Lynda, Joan, Caroline, and Betty play a game of Phase 10.

CASSANDRA LUNDBEK PHOTO

Deana Nelson selects a game for her table at the Sunshine Villa's Board Game Night, held on Friday, Dec. 6.

BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP

For Sale: Common Seed Oats, Pony Oats and Barley

Closed Dec. 20th - Jan. 2nd

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB

September & October Open by appointment only

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB November

Serving all the farms, ranches, acreages and towns in Beaver County Bruce, Holden, Kinsella Ryley, Tofield, Viking

The Beaver County Chronicle

A Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County

Wednesday, December 11, 2024, Volume 17, Issue 50

Wednesday, November , 2023, Volume 16, Issue 46

WednesdayFebruary162022Volume15Issue7

Council to vote on interim operating budget Dec. 18

Patricia Harcourt

After talks at Beaver County Council’s November 20 regular meeting when the Chief Administrative Officer Kayleena Spiess gave the CAO report on the budget overview, budget sessions were scheduled for November 27-29, and December 4-6.

Reeve Kevin Smook announced that the December 5 and 6 meetings concerning the budget were cancelled.

“Council was able to address all agenda items by the end of the Special Meeting on December 4, 2024, so no additional meetings are required,” he said. With decisions made and consensus reached, the matter will now go to the December 18 regular meeting for ratification. This doesn’t mean that changes aren’t possible into the spring when mill rates will be finalized prior to sending out tax notices.

The budget overview under consideration shows a proposed tax levy increase of $392,828 based on the budget rising from $16,129,641 in 2024 to $16,522,369 in 2025.

The county had four options to consider to deal with the rise in budget.

Administration stated that the preferred option

Funding request

Patricia Harcourt

Tofield 4-H Beef and Multi Club was granted $2,500 as operational funding to come out of Beaver County council’s Community Support Request program.

“Tofield 4-H is requesting funds for help to cover the costs of providing rubber mats for the Club Show and the 4-H District Show,” stated the report to council November 20. The mats are used to cover the concrete in the Tofield Arena where the show is usually held.

Ryan Arndt, general manager of corporate services, blamed “insufficient postage” for the request letter not making the application deadline.

“This application was mailed before the deadline in September; however, it was returned to the applicant by the post office after the deadline had passed due to insufficient postage,” stated Arndt. “The applicant did not have time to resubmit before the grant applications were considered by council.”

“How is it possible to have insufficient funds between Tofield and Ryley,” asked Councillor Lionel Williams (Division 2), before making the motion that was passed to provide the requested funding.

was to increase the mill rate by 2%.

Option 2 was to put a 1.5% mill rate increase plus take $90.000 from reserves.

Option 3 was to raise the mill rate 1% and take $160,000 from reserves.

Option 4 was to not increase the mill rate but reduce services as directed by council.

These options do not include increases to Beaver Emergency Services Commission (BESC) and Provincial Policing which are calculated on top of the municipal portion, and to which the county does not have control.

Ryan Arndt, General Manager of Corporate Services, told council Nov. 20 that costs are up and will not stop due to inflationary trends.

“We budget for the worst case scenario so we are not at risk,” he said, noting that a budget shortfall indicates the need to increase taxes. He indicated there were major purchase increases in capital equipment like graders, utility and fuel costs, wages and salaries, plus an increase in the BESC requisition and a drop in interest rate revenue.

“Half the tax bill is from Beaver County..The other half are requisitions that are not under our control,” he said. He said a 2% tax increase had been prepared

for 2025, noting that farmland “would remain status quo.”

He said the 2% increase was “on top of the assessment increase.”

Several motions were passed at the budget meetings regarding councilor initiatives. They Include:

A motion by Cr. Pederson (Division 5) that Council budget $265,000 for the Kinsella Community Center roof repairs, to be funded from the Clean Harbors Grant.

A motion by Cr. Smook that council budget $50,000 for the Tofield Golden Club expansion project, to be funded from the Clean Harbors Grant.

And then a motion on increasing scholarships and awards was carried, including the following: ASB Farm Family Award - $1,000; ASB Scholarship - $2,000; Ag for Life Grant - $2,000; Stelmach Scholarship - $4,000; Youth Education - $4,000; Youth Outstanding Achievement grants - $5,000.

The motion to approve an interim operating budget and the capital budget will be considered by Council on December 18. The mill rate bylaw will be presented and considered by Council in the Spring.

Beaver County increases grants to watershed organizations

Patricia Harcourt

After discussions noting the importance of keeping watersheds protected for the future, Beaver County Council agreed to increase its grants to two organizations that perform that function.

The previous amount of $.050 per capita was increased at council’s November 20 regular meeting to $0.60 per capita starting in 2025.

The funds will be shared based on per capita population between the North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance (80 per cent) and the Battle River Watershed Alliance (20 per cent).

This means a total of $2,816.64 for the NSWA based on the 2021 census population of 5,868; and $704.16 to the BRWA based on 2021 census figures.

The request for an increase was given for several reasons including the fact there had been no increase in the amount since 2006, while inflation has increased “dramatically.”

And in-kind support increased from $34,500 in 2006 to over $500,000 for the past eight years, an indication “It costs significantly more to operate the alliances.”

Members of county council sit on both boards of these organizations.

In his presentation to council, Ryan Arndt, general

manager of corporate services, noted that: “It costs significantly more to run these organizations,” than when they were originally formed.

Councillor Barry Bruce (Division 4) spoke of how conditions upstream to the county can cause flooding in Beaver County, even though the area is not located within its boundaries. Bruce sits on a watershed board and gave the example to emphasize the importance of the organizations and how the watersheds can affect the local area.

“It should be treated as a whole and not just (what lies) within the county,” he said, concerning the waterways that run through Beaver County.

Councillor Lionel Williams (Division 2) asked how the watershed groups facilitate Beaver County, saying “I don’t see it.” Agriculture field man Jonathan Culbert gave the example of how the county can access a large amount of information regarding the watersheds based on being a member of each organizations.

And councillor Dale Pederson (Division 5) pointed out that the Town of Viking’s new non potable water service project was given help from BRWA as the project’s water source of Iron Creek is a tributary of the Battle River. With that, a motion by Bruce to raise the grant funding as per administration’s recommendation was passed.

Beaver County Council is considering the lease of the following municipal reserve lots:

BeaverCountyCouncilisconsideringtheleaseofthefollowing municipalreservelots:

Plan 762 0125, Block 1, Lot R5 in SE 26-50-20-W4 (Willow Lake Estates) (28 34 acres)

Plan7620125,Block1,LotR5inSE26-50-20-W4(WillowLake Estates)(28.34acres)

IMPORTANT TAX NOTICE

Plan 762 1641, Block 1, Lot R1 in SE 9-50-20-W4(15 37 acres)

Plan7621641,Block1,LotR1inSE9-50-20-W4(15.37acres)

Plan 1670 TR, Lot R1 in SE 16 50 20 W4 (13 35 acres)

Plan1670TR,LotR1inSE16-50-20-W4(13.35acres)

Plan 752 0263, Lot R3 in SE 31-51-19-W4(13 08 acres)

Plan7520263,LotR3inSE31-51-19-W4(13.08acres)

Plan 1972 TR, Lot R2 in NW 26-51-20-W4

Plan1972TR,LotR2inNW26-51-20-W4

Further information can be obtained at the Beaver County Office (5120

50 Street, Ryley) or on the County’s website at www beaver ab ca

Beaver County will be holding a public hearing to give residents an opportunity to provide input on the proposed leases Details of the public hearing are as follows:

FurtherinformationcanbeobtainedattheBeaverCountyOffice(5120 –50Street,Ryley)orontheCounty’swebsiteat www.beaver.ab.ca BeaverCountywillbeholdingapublichearingtogiveresidentsan opportunitytoprovideinputontheproposedleases.Detailsofthe publichearingareasfollows:

Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Date: Wednesday,December18,2024

1:00 P M

Time: 1:00P.M.

: Beaver County Council Chambers, 5120 - 50 Street, Ryley

Location:BeaverCountyCouncilChambers,5120-50Street,Ryley

Margaret Jones at 780-663-3730 ext 1016 or mjones@beaver ab ca

Contact: MargaretJonesat780-663-3730ext.1016or mjones@beaver.ab.ca

If you wish to provide feedback at, or prior to, the public hearing, you may register to speak in person or submit written comments no later than 4:30 p m , Wednesday, December 11, 2024

To register, contact Meagan Walsh, Executive Assistant, at or 780-663-3730 ext 1023

Ifyouwishtoprovidefeedbackat,orpriorto,thepublichearing,you mayregistertospeakinpersonorsubmitwrittencommentsnolater than4:30p.m.,Wednesday,December11,2024. Toregister,contactMeaganWalsh,ExecutiveAssistant,at mwalsh@beaver.ab.ca or780-663-3730ext1023.

WrittencommentsmaybedeliveredinpersontotheBeaverCounty Officeat5120–50thStreet,Ryley,betweenthehoursof8:30a.m.and 4:30p.m.,MondaytoFriday,orbye-mailto mwalsh@beaver.ab.ca.

Written comments may be delivered in person to the Beaver County Office at 5120 – 50th Street, Ryley, between the hours of 8:30 a m and 4:30 p m , Monday to Friday, or by e-mail to mwalsh@beaver ab ca

Note that written submissions will not be accepted during the public hearing and that any information you provide may be made public subject to the provisions of the of Information and Protection of Privacy Act

All information is available at

Notethatwrittensubmissionswillnotbeacceptedduringthepublic hearingandthatanyinformationyouprovidemaybe madepublicsubjecttotheprovisionsofthe Freedom ofInformationandProtectionofPrivacyAct. Allinformationisavailableat www.beaver.ab.ca/government/meeting-schedule

Due to the Canada Post strike, we are unable to send out tax statements If you're unsure whether you owe taxes, please call our office at 780-663-3730 for assistance

DuetotheCanadaPoststrike,weareunabletosendouttax statements.Ifyou'reunsurewhetheryouowetaxes,pleasecall ourofficeat780-663-3730forassistance.

Reminder: The next penalty on outstanding taxes will be applied on January 16, 2025

Thank you for your understanding!

Reminder:Thenextpenaltyonoutstandingtaxeswillbe appliedonJanuary16,2025. Thankyouforyourunderstanding!

It’s back! Lets light up our County! Full details can be found on our website under the Community menu

IMPORTANTDATES

IMPORTANT DATES

December18

9:30AM-12PM-GovernanceandPrioritiesCommitteeMeeting 1-4:30PM-RegularCouncilMeeting December25-27,andJanuary1 OfficeClosedforChristmas,andNewYearsDay

December 18 9:30 AM - 12 PM - Governance and Priorities Committee Meeting 1 - 4:30 PM - Regular Council Meeting December 25 - 27, and January 1 Office Closed for Christmas, and New Years Day

WHATSHAPPENINGINOURCOMMUNITY

BookClub

WHATS HAPPENING IN OUR COMMUNITY Book Club

Location: Ross Creek Community Hall, 531041 Rge Rd 19

Rural book club that meets the first Tuesday of each month Meetings run from 7PM - 8PM, all ages welcome!

Location:RossCreekCommunityHall,531041RgeRd19 RuralbookclubthatmeetsthefirstTuesdayofeachmonth.Meetings runfrom7PM-8PM,allageswelcome!

Tofield AA - Thursdays, 8 - 9 PM

Basement of Bardo Lutheran Church, 4737 57 Ave, Tofield

Viking AA - Wednesdays, 8 PM, Zoom option also available

Golden Valley Lutheran Church, 5327 56 Ave, Viking https://area78aa org/meetings/147-3

TofieldAA -Thursdays,8-9PM BasementofBardoLutheranChurch,473757Ave,Tofield. VikingAA -Wednesdays,8PM,Zoomoptionalsoavailable. GoldenValleyLutheranChurch,532756Ave,Viking. https://area78aa.org/meetings/147-3

Submit your event/s, meetings and/or

Submityourevent/s,meetingsand/orgatheringstotheeventscalendaronthe website!Justheadtothewebsite,undertheExploremenuclickonCountyRegion EventsCalendar.WehavepartneredwithGoEasttosharelocaleventsonour website!

When plowing your driveway, please avoid pushing snow across the road and creating a large pile

Whenplowingyour driveway,pleaseavoid pushingsnowacross theroadandcreatinga largepile.

Highlightswerealittlelateoverthelast coupleofmonths,andforthatwe apologize!However,pleasefindthemnow onourwebsiteunderCountyNews!

Thesepilescancompact intosolidice,andifa snowplowhitsone,itcan causetheplowtojoltoff course,posinga serious safetyrisk totheoperator andothervehicles.

BUDGET SEASON IS HERE

ForCountyNews andother updates: BUDGETSEASONISHERE...

2025 Proposed Budget is now available for review! This budget outlines plans to support community priorities, enhance services, and maintain infrastructure while balancing fiscal responsibility Council will be voting on the proposed budget at the next Council meeting

2025ProposedBudgetisnow availableforreview!Thisbudget outlinesplanstosupport communitypriorities,enhance services,andmaintain infrastructurewhilebalancing fiscalresponsibility.Councilwillbe votingontheproposedbudgetat thenextCouncilmeeting.

Find the document on the website under the menu

Findthedocumentonthe websiteunderthe Government menu> Financials

Admission-$5perperson Musicians/Participants-NoCharge ComeDancetotheMusic!

SUNDAY DECEMBER15,1PM

HOLDENCOMMUNITYHALL 4919-49Ave.HOLDEN,AB

HOLD 4919

Ad Musicians/Participants - No Charge Come Dance to the Music! For more info: Dave 780-720-5839 players17@gmail com

Mailinglist Getnews,meetinghighlights,theroadconstruction schedule,theChronicle,andmore-directtoyourinbox!

Website InformationonCountyprogramsandservicescan befoundonourwebsite,alongwiththelatestnews.

orbeaverhillplayers17@gmail.com

Little movement as Canada Post strike enters week 4

Leslie Cholowsky

With the Postal strike now entering a fourth week, and millions of potential revenue over the busiest time of the year lost to the company, Canada Post reports that it has received the latest offers from the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) and is reviewing them.

Canada Post says their initial review of the latest CUPW offering finds the company,

Avoid driving high

Patricia Harcourt

The stigma surrounding drinking and driving is a reality even though there are still too many people, especially during the holiday season, who end up behind the wheel of a car after having “a few drinks.”

However, the concern is now growing about driving while high ever since cannabis was legalized for recreational use in Canada.

This is what the National Safe Driving Week is focusing on this year with the theme: “Head in the Clouds? Don’t drive high.”

“The misconception that cannabis impairs driving less than alcohol can lead to dangerous and even fatal consequences on the road,” is the warning going out from the Canada Safety Council campaign, and backed by the Insurance Brokers Association of Canada. They are highlighting the risks that come with driving under the influence of cannabis.

“Driving under the influence of cannabis is a serious risk to road safety,” says Gareth Jones, president and CEO of the Canada Safety Council. “It impairs your ability to react and make sound decisions, and the consequences can be devastating.

“Impairment, whether from alcohol or drugs, has no place behind the wheel.”

Statistics reveal that “cannabis impaired driving remains a leading contributor to road accidents,” according to a report from Public Safety Canada.

In fact, last year it was determined that 23.3 per cent of cannabis users nationwide admitted to driving within two hours of consuming cannabis.

Between 2018 and 2020, half of the almost 5,000 injured drivers in 15 trauma centres had at least one impairing substance in their system (Trauma Injury Research Foundation). Cannabis (THC) was detected in almost 20 per cent of drivers involved in those traumatic injuries.

Cannabis affects motor skills, reaction time and decision making, all of which are crucial to safe driving. It can also impair cognitive functioning necessary for driving coordination and perception.

The psychoactive compound THC in cannabis alters how the brain processes information, affecting the ability to focus, make quick decisions and react to changes on the road.

But the most dangerous issue is that it reduces reaction times, so the driver doesn’t respond to sudden hazards such as. a car braking suddenly or a pedestrian stepping out on the road.

And in situations requiring split second decisions, this can make avoiding a collision or adjusting to rapidly changing traffic conditions much less likely.

Cannabis impairs motor coordination which can cause a driver to swerve or lose control of the vehicle.

“One of the dangers of driving under the influence of cannabis is that users often do not realize how impaired they are,” states the report, which is different from someone intoxicated by alcohol.

“Studies have shown that even small amounts of cannabis can significantly impact driving performance,” affecting memory, attention and the ability to multitask.

“extremely disappointed that their intent appears to be to widen the gap in negotiations, rather than close it.

“We are conducting a full review of the offers for the Urban and RSMC (Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers) bargaining units and will share more information as soon as possible.

“However, we don’t want to provide false hope to impacted employees, small businesses, charities, and northern communities that were hoping for a speedy resolution.

“In the last few weeks, Canada Post has made several important moves to close the gap and reach negotiated agreements, but the union has reverted to their previous positions or increased their demands.”

Canada Post says that while the specifics of its offer must remain confidential, that the focus has been:

“Changes to our mail-based delivery model that would allow for affordable and reliable weekend delivery and other improvements.

“Maintaining our largely full-time delivery workforce while creating weekend part-time positions – providing benefits, guaranteed hours and opportunities for temporary employees.

“Focused on providing good jobs for our people, building on what they already have: Wage increases above our previous offers.

Approximately 70 per cent of current employees are at the maximum current salary range, making more than $30 per hour, plus overtime and cost-of-living allowance payments.

“Providing good pensions for retirement.

“Maintaining up to seven weeks of vacation and 13 personal days.

“Maintaining stringent job security provisions.”

CUPW says the Urban and Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers Negotiations Committees met Monday, Dec. 9 with Canada Post to present revised proposals in response to the Corporation’s latest proposals.

The Union finalized a counter proposal and response to Canada Posts “comprehensive framework,” last week, delivering new proposals to the special mediator on Wednesday, Dec. 4. On Dec. 6, CUPW received Canada Post’s response to its counter proposals, and reviewed those prior to presenting the revised proposals Monday.

The Union said last Thursday, Dec. 5 that it is committed to delivering pension and social assistance cheques, saying, “We do not want pensioners and people who rely on government assistance to suffer during the current work disruption. The most vulnerable members of our society should not be caught in the crosshairs of our contract dispute with Canada Post.”

MLA Lovely receives medal from Premier Smith

Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely stated in a recent press release: “I am humbled and honoured to be presented the King Charles III Coronation Medal from Premier Danielle Smith. This metal is given in recognition of serving the people of Canada. It is a privilege for me to serve and represent the residents of the Camrose Constituency.” In the presentation photo, Premier Smith (right) presents the MLA with her medal.

The 56 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Nootka celebrate many achievements

Coxswain W. Hill's birthday was celebrated at the last regular meeting of the Tofield sea cadets, presented with a card by Civilian Instructor Cappella.

The 56 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Nootka in Tofield named Master Cadet B. Allen as cadet of the month at their last weekly meeting, presented by Civilian Instructor Cappella on Thursday, Nov. 30 at the Tofield Community Hall.

Tofield sea cadet Hall was also promoted to PO2, presented by Lt. (N) Braim.

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

Employment. Events. Thank Yous. Memorials. Services & More!

CLASSIFIED AD RATES

$20 minimum for first 35 words, 45¢ per word thereafter (G.S.T. not included)

PICTURE BOLD

$10 $5

ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PREPAID BEFORE INSERTION unless customer has an account in good standing. All advertising subject to the approval of the Publisher.

THE COMMUNITY PRESS

780-385-6693

production.cp@gmail.com WEEKLY REVIEW 780-336-3422

vikingreview@gmail.com

TOFIELD MERCURY 780-662-4046

adsmercury@gmail.com

LAMONT LEADER 780-895-2780

lmtleader@gmail.com

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Bless a Grandparent Make the holidays special for Tofield seniors' homes by providing a gift this season! Every $15 donation provides two senior gifts. These snowman wrapped gifts each include a Mary Kay Mint Bliss foot lotion, socks, and a holiday card. Etransfer rsmarten@telus.net Call Rick or Sonya at 780-240-4605 for more information.

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AUCTIONS

MEIER GUN AUCTION, Saturday, December 21 - 10 am, WetaskiwinSelling over 200 Rifles, Shot Guns, Antique Firearms, Ammunition, Scopes. Consign now. Free Pick-up. Call 780-440-1860; www.meierauction.com.

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Does your club have an event planned? Advertise in the Classifieds

SUDOKU

CARD OF THANKS

The Basterash Families would like to give a heartfelt thank you to everyone for their support after Mom’s passing. The cards, food, phone calls, and memorial donations are all greatly appreciated. Special thank you to the staff at the Long Term Care who took wonderful care of Mom. Also to the staff on the Acute side. She Loved You All!

We would also like to thank the following people: Doctors Hanton, Rami, and Stanislav who took care of Mom over the years. Katherine and Dan at Budding Ideas for all the flowers you put together for us. They were all so beautiful.

To Joe and Les at Fee and Sons for your caring and compassion, there were many phonecalls back and forth. Carol Arntzen and the Catholic Church for a most delicious lunch that you prepared.

On behalf of the Basterash Families, in lieu of Thank You cards, a Memorial Donation will be given to the Killam Cemetery Fund.

Gerald, Jack, Denis, Ginette, Garret, Elaine, Dan, and Families

COMING EVENTS

LUTEFISK SUPPER

Golden Valley Lutheran Church Friday, Jan 10th , 2025, at 6:30pm Tickets are $35.00 each ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY

Contact Muriel at 336-2444

Old Fashioned Christmas at Pleasington Historical Church Sunday, December 22 at 2 p.m.

Carol Singing, Impromptu Program, and Sharing of Christmas Goodies. Everyone Welcome!

Family Movie Night at the Viking Seniors Centre December 13 at 7 p.m. Suitable for Young Children Christmas Treats for Children Coffee, Tea for Parents Free Admission Everyone Welcome!

FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2024 AUCTION PROGRAM: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Toll-Free 1-800-694-2609, Email Us at sales@switzersauction.com or Visit Us @ www.switzersauction.com for Auction Dates & Details.

Celebrate the New Year at the Alliance Community Hall. Dec 31 . Fun, Food and Favors for the 3whole family. $40 each, $75 couple, $100 family (one household) Music by The River Jacks, Call 780 385-1483 or 780 879 2158 for tickets.

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FOR RENT

Large, non-smoking 2 Bedroom Apartment in Killam. Call Chuck 780-263-7290

2 Bedroom House For Rent Near Hardisty. Small older home 2 kms out of town. Includes fridge, stove, microwave, washer & dryer. Recent reno’s. Very reasonable rate for the right person or couple. Call or text (780) 699-3449 for details

48/49p

HARDISTY: 2 BR furnished house for rent available now. $1200 plus electricity. Call or text 780-717-6783

2019 GM Fuel Pump. Part #13516865. LIke new, asking $300 OBO. Phone 780-895-2408.

Portable, maintenance-free 12’x12’ deck with attached ramp and two steps. (Buyers responsibility to movemust be gone by the spring). Call Brian at 780-678-0053

Tame Round Bales for Sale. Camrose Area. Call 780-678-7094

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CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

BUILDINGS FOR SALE

INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-9747678 www.integritybuilt.com.

SEED FOR SALE

ABFeed Grain: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.

HELP WANTED

Part time support/ respite worker for adult male in wheelchair. Home is in the Round Hill area. Valid drivers license, will train, wages to be discussed. Send resume to: broblin.br@gmail.com or text 604793-3756.

SERVICES

PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1866-405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.

Roy's Handyman Services. Flooring, trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work. Call 780-232-3097

Drywall Taping/Ceiling Texturing

40 years experience on the job, from commercial buildings to new homes to home renovations. No job too small. Experienced Killam drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job, big or small. Don't want to do it yourself?Give me a call!

Flagstaff Taping & Texturing

Murray Cholowsky Call or text at 780-385-1251

Personal Taxi Service to Edmonton and Back -$175

•Office Hours Mon-Fri 9-5

•Absolutely NO Hidden Fees

•Escort to Reception/Waiting Room

•Pick up and Drop off at your door

•Top Notch Service!

•Includes up to 4 Hour Wait

•Locally Owned and Operated 587-987-7810

CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss?

Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com. 50p

CASH FOR COIN COLLECTIONS & COIN ACCUMULATION'S! Also buying all Gold, Silver, Old Jewelry, Nuggets, Sterling,

CLUES ACROSS 1. This regulates cortisol production (abbr.)

People of northern Vietnam

Employee stock ownership plan

Regions

The center of a city

Hindu serpentine deity

Muckraker Tarbell

One of Babe Ruth’s nick-

Groups in organic chem-

31. More pleasant-tasting 32. Spring forward

33. Noted writer

CLUES DOWN

1. Partner to “oohs"

2. Scaly water dweller

3. Pueblo people of New Mexico

4. Music producer Teo

5. Greek mythological goddess

6. Got together to discuss

7. Acquires

8. Involve

9. Some are tomato-based

10. Old Irish alphabets

11. A sheet of glass in a win-

dow or door

13. Blood poisoning

17. A moon of Saturn

24. Neither

25. Sums

26. They follow “A”

27. Satisfaction 28. People of southeastern Burma

34. Building occupied by monks

39. “The world’s most famous arena”

42. Colorless liquid hydrocarbon

44. Long or fast speech

46. Things you can eat

47. Substance in which magnetic moments are not aligned

49. Actor Idris

50. I (German)

51. Taxes

56. Indonesian island

57. Nuisance (slang)

58. Shawl

59. Digits

60. Moved on foot quickly

61. "For goodness __”

62. Facial body part

63. Russian river

64. Urinates

29. Small amount

35. Guy (slang)

36. Sound unit

37. Midway between northeast and east

38. Affirmative

40. Almost at the top

41. Extremely slow

42. Pearl Jam’s debut album

43. Influential mid-century playwright 44. Martens 45. Approval 47. Dallas-adjacent Texas city 48. African nation 49. Dark brown or black 52. A place to get caught

Large-headed, elongated fish 54. Type of sword

Scottish tax or levy

Cassandra Lundbek Staff Reporter

A local woman is helping families keep holiday traditions alive despite the postal strike this year. Alysia Van Sickle, like many parents, has written letters to Santa every year since her daughter was born.

“It’s been a fun tradition that I cherish every year,” Van Sickle said.

“With the Canada Post strike this year, I knew my daughter wouldn’t be able to send or receive a Santa letter,

so I decided I would make my own!”

Initially, Van Sickle planned to create letters just for her daughter, nieces, and nephews.

However, she enjoyed the process so much that she decided to extend the offer to her community.

“I remember being a little girl, receiving my letter from Santa and feeling so special that Santa took time out of his busy schedule to write just to me.

“Every child deserves to feel as special as I did all those years ago,” Van

LOVE TO COOK?

Sickle explained.

Van Sickle has received requests for around 50 letters. Each child will receive a personalized typed letter from Santa, and an Official Nice List Certificate in a handwritten envelope.

“I definitely wasn’t expecting as many as I’ve received so far, but I’m so happy to see so many parents wanting to make their kids’ Christmas so special,” Van Sickle said.

Apply with resume to: Wanda Lefsrud, Manager, Vialta Lodge vialta@telusplanet.net or call 780-336-3353 Local

Vialta Lodge in Viking is currently hiring for a 2nd Cook

Approximately 13 shifts a month. Opportunity for more hours in other areas if interested. RCMP Security Clearance Check required upon hire.

We oﬀer a clean, fun, safe, and warm environment to work in. Competitive pay plan. Beneﬁts package.

Apply by resume Attention Wes, in person at Campbell McLennan Chrysler in Killam or by fax 780-385-3803 or email wcampbell@cmchrysler.ca or Gerry Keyzer Service Manager at service@cmchrysler.ca

Tofield Mercury; Kerry, Michelle, Brennan, & Garrett Anderson; Eric & Ally Anderson; Lisa, Derick, Kylie, Cody, Keifer, & Colton Kuflay; John Mather; Jana Semeniuk & family; Crystal & Hunter Inverarity; Kari Janzen & family; Kate Priestley & family; Mr. & Mrs. Anonymous; Anita Domoslai; Gilbert & Dorothy Suchy; D. King; Harold & Barbara Conquest; Lillian Grinde; Gerald Upton; Kelly Phillips; Beaverhill Bird Observatory; Geoff Holroyd; Rose & Joe Yurkowski; Brenda Williams; KC Insurance; Bruce & Bernice Peters; Ed & Vi Gara; Sylvia Race; Raymond Peterson; Darlene Williams; Leonard Nearing; Richard & Dana Koss; Ken & Marilyn Bruha; Stewart Ferguson; Sandy & Shirley Suchy; Linda Lyons; Dave & Treva Schultz; Mr. Handsom; Walt & Betty Neufeld; Ron & Shirley Goeglein; Ken & Eva Dodds; Wayne & Marilyn Lysons; Ron & Barb Romaniuk; Theresa Manderson; Sue & Aurel Perry; Joanne & Armand Goubault; Gloria Knudslien; Colaine Chapman;

Brolly;

Spilstead Community Hall annual Christmas Market

On Saturday, Dec. 7 people from the Spilstead community and surrounding area gathered for the annual Spilstead Hall Christmas Market and live auction. Seen here (L-R) Callie, Dwaine, and Hailey Van Sickle are ready to auction off the items donated by local businesses, hall and community members. LISA KUFLAY PHOTOS

light

were

Because

The Mercury covers Beaver County. These are my friends and neighbours and we support one another.

I try to buy all my printing from The Mercury, or at least get a quote. They are honest and good to deal with. When I have a problem they look after it for me - from printing to advertising.

I budget a portion of my revenue for advertising with The Mercury. It’s smart business to re-invest in promoting my business.

I see other successful businesses advertising in The Mercury. Great minds think alike!

lunch, desserts, and refreshments

provided during the intermission. Seen here (L-R) is hall member Amber Harrington with Hailey Van Sickle.

Hall members Doug Coleman, Dwaine and Mike Van Sickle auction off the items to the crowd.

Jessy and her daughter Azlynn stand at their table Mother Pluckers with all their dehydrated candies and dog treats.

Ryley Carol Festival showcases local talent

Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

This year the annual Carol Festival held at the Ryley Good News Community Church (GNCC) drew in about 60 people who enjoyed local talent and joined in on some carol singing on Sunday afternoon, Dec. 8.

Josh and Tilly Wipf led

the eight congregational songs and featured numbers included Janaya Tensen on her ukelele, the Salem Mennonite Church Choir who sang Beautiful Star of Bethlehem, and Josh Wipf and his son James who performed Make Room.

From the Ryley SeventhDay Adventist Church, Wayne Tetz performed

Mary Did You Know on his accordion, and accompanied Glen and Grace McAfee on the violin and piano to play another Christmas carol. The McAfees and Karla Janzen with her violin performed O Little Town of Bethlehem.

Hannah Wiebe performed a violin solo, playing Go Tell It on the Mountain. Al Baerg and his grandson Logan Daley sang eight numbers together, including All Because of Christmas, Wise Men Follow Him, Christmas Means Heaven to Me, and It’s Still the Greatest Story Ever Told.

Pastor Jon Stewart of the Tofield Community Church, Pastor Mark Loewen of the Salem Mennonite Church, and Josh Wipf each read passages from the books of Matthew and Luke.

Emcee and GNCC

Pastor Mark Bueckert said the Carol Festival has been held for many years, and attendance often depends on the weather.

“The Carol Festival is a good opportunity for the community to come together to remember the true meaning of Christmas. It seems like we've had bad weather for quite a few years in a row now, but we usually have a crowd about 50, and today we were about 60,” he said.

KARI JANZEN PHOTOS

The annual Carol Festival held at the Ryley Good News Community Church drew in about 60 people who enjoyed local talent and joined in on some carol singing on Sunday afternoon, Dec. 8. Here the Salem Mennonite Church Choir sings Beautiful Star of Bethlehem

Al Baerg and his grandson Logan Daley sang eight numbers together, including All Because of Christmas, Wise Men Follow Him, Christmas Means Heaven to Me, and It’s Still the Greatest Story Ever Told.

Holden holds Winter Wonderland Celebration

Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

This year Viking Beaver Family and Community Support Services (VBFCSS) partnered with the Holden Ag Society and Holden Rural Academy (HRA) to host a Winter Wonderland Celebration on Saturday, Dec. 7.

This included a festival of trees, a local craft sale, a taco bar fundraiser, free refreshments and goodies

baked by foods students at HRA, free public skating, kids crafts, and a Christmas tree silent auction.

“It’s a good opportunity for our community to get together,” said VBFCSS Director Dawn Chrystian.

Last year a similar event was hosted by FCSS at the Holden Community Hall, and with the introduction of the Holden Ag Society as partners, they used the rec room in the

Holden Complex for the event this year.

“There is a little bit more space here, and we wanted to expand to a market, too.

“We've added the auction, market, the free cookies, and the dinner,” Chrystian said.

The wooden trees for the auction were made sizes and colours, and there were also gnome decorations that were created by local crafter Shannon Harte, who is also the VBFCSS

KARI JANZEN PHOTO

iking Beaver FCSS partnered with the Holden Ag Society and HRA to host a Winter Wonderland Celebration on Saturday, Dec. 7, which included a festival of trees, a local craft sale, a taco bar fundraiser, free refreshments and goodies baked by foods students at HRA, free public skating, kids crafts, and a Christmas tree silent auction. Colton Pyzik, 3, and Izzy Hill, 9, decorate Christmas cookies.

KELSEY WITHAM PHOTO Gracie (4) and Ellie (5) had the ice to themselves for Parent & Tot public skate on Wednesday morning, Dec. 4 at the Tofield Arena. Parent & Tot skate is held weekly from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Holden Community Support Programmer.

Over a dozen businesses, groups, and individuals decorated trees that were voted on by those who attended the celebration and the winner received bragging rights and Holden Green Bucks.

“I'm so grateful to all the people who came and helped, like the Edmonton Female Hockey Alliance. Those ladies helped me so much, and they aren’t even from here. I'm really happy with the local craft people that came, and it was just a really good event,” Harte said.

Longest Night Service

evening of worship, reflection, and comfort for those who have experienced loss and for those struggling to celebrate this season.

7:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Hosted at the Tofield United Church All are welcome.

OFFICE HOURS

MONDAY (NODENTIST) 10 AM - 2 PM TUESDAY 9 AM - 6 PM

9 AM - 6 PM