February 12 Tofield Mercury by Caribou Publishing

$1 including gst

Your LOCAL Media since 1918! VOLUME 107: ISSUE 24

www.tofieldmerc.com

Local businesses say thank you to health care workers ~ inside Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Break-in causes damage to back door of Tofield Bottle Depot Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

Parveen Kalley said she didn’t realize she had been broken into until her first customer came in on Thursday, Jan. 23, when she discovered the trays from both her tills were missing. It wasn’t unusual that the drawers were open, as this is not the first time the Tofield Bottle Depot has been targeted. “I leave the drawers open on the till, because last time we were robbed, they took my whole till, and a whole till is expensive. Since then, I leave them open, and he took

both drawers. So, it was then I realized, but I was surprised, and wondered which door they came in. Once someone broke in through the front door, once from the side door, and now once from the back door,” Kalley said. Kalley said they installed a light on the building by the front door on the street, and now always leave their forklift in front of the side door, which could have impacted the decision of the burglar to enter from the back. Kalley said they submitted the video surveillance to police, but that the intruder was wearing

a mask and gloves. “He tried to cut the outside lock, but this one is a double lock, so then he used a hammer to hit the door, then the whole door frame, and started beating the cement block wall,” she said. The thief made off with petty cash, as Kalley said they don’t leave money in the bottle depot. “We don't leave money anymore, just a few nickels and quarters,” she said. Tofield RCMP was contacted for comment but said they are not permitted to provide updates on the incident at this time.

LISA KUFLAY PHOTOS

Highway 14 accident by Shonts An accident occurred on Highway 14 between Range Road 183 and 184 at Shonts on Monday morning, Feb. 10, involving a white Dodge pickup and another pickup hauling a horse trailer filled with 5-gallon bottled water jugs. The Dodge sustained front end damage, and the horse trailer sustained damage to the rear. Tofield RCMP detachment acting commander Cpl. Ken Sawyer said the cause of the collision was due to a mechanical issue. He reported no injuries, and confirmed that the trailer did not have livestock inside. The highway was sanded due to a water spill. KARI JANZEN PHOTOS

Page 2 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Tofield hosts 26th annual Quint School basketball tourney Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

During the 26th annual Quint School senior high basketball tournament held from Thursday, Jan. 30, to Saturday, Feb. 1, 68 games were played at the five host schools, Tofield, Bawlf, Hay Lakes, New Norway, and Our Lady of Mount Pleasant (OLMP) in Camrose. Organizer of the tournament and Holden Rural Academy (HRA) principal Brent Anderson said the tournament was the biggest it has been in its history. “We had 20 boys and girls teams this year, so it was the largest tournament we've ever hosted overall. “The tournament ran smoothly but weather forced one team to not be able to compete as their school did not have buses running, so the schedule had to be changed on the Thursday night of the tournament to accommodate,” he said. The winners of the tournament for both the boys and girls was Olds Koinonia Christian School. The boys beat Willow Creek from Claresholm 7471, and the girls beat Bawlf 57-36. “Olds is the second ranked 1A team presently. Bawlf is presently the number 5 ranked 1A team in the province,” Anderson said.

As for Tofield, the boys and girls teams each played three games. The boys faced OLMP on Thursday, and fell just short of a win, with a final score of 70-72. They beat Rosemary 86-45 on Friday, and lost to Gus Wetter School from

Tofield was one of the five host schools for the 26th annual Quint School senior high basketball tournament from Jan. 30 to Feb. 1. The Tofield senior high girls lost their first game to Daysland 18-52, and then faced Breton at home, but lost 32-45. Their third and final game they played St. Mary School from Westlock but lost 39-44.

Castor 54-74. The Tofield girls played in Bawlf on Thursday, and lost to Daysland 18-52. On Friday they faced Breton at home, but lost 32-45. On Saturday the girls faced St. Mary School from Westlock and lost 39-44. HRA boys played against Central High Sedgewick Public School in Hay Lakes for their first game of the tournament on Thursday, and lost 49-77. They faced St. Mary on Friday and lost 53-67. On Saturday they played in New Norway against Alix-MAC and lost 51-80. “The boys were 0-3 on the weekend but had some very competitive games throughout the weekend and are showing steady improvement throughout the year,” Anderson said about the HRA team.

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The Tofield senior high boys lost to OLMP with a final score of 70-72., then they beat Rosemary 86-45, and lost to Gus Wetter School from Castor 54-74.

( DAMIEN.KUREK@PARL.GC.CA 1.800.665.4358 Ŏ @DCKUREK WWW.DAMIENKUREK.CA

Take the time to appreciate the Family Day long weekend!

780-662-4623

Kevin Smook - REALTOR ®

Jessee Malica-Hare - REALTOR ®

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Celebrating 25 years of serving our Community!

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 - Page 3

Yvonne Brown honoured by MLA Jackie Lovely John Mather Staff Reporter

During a community reception for a variety of grant recipients hosted by Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely in Camrose Feb. 4, Tofield’s Yvonne Brown

was presented with plaque for her outstanding volunteer commitment to the community. In a biography read out by Lovely it was pointed out Brown had been volunteering in the community for more than 60

years. She has been involved with more than 32 organizations in the Tofield area. Brown’s daughter Amanda introduced her mother to a large crowd. “Yvonne Brown truly

deserves recognition and gratitude for helping the people of her hometown of Tofield and the surrounding area,” she stated. She said her mom was born and raised in Tofield and had raised her family

in the town as well. “Her generosity of her time and energy has been central to the community,” the daughter explained. “She has been involved with the Beaver Foundation Seniors

Housing, the Tofield Arts & Crafts Society, the Tofield Boy Scouts and Girl Guides among many others.” She is also a founding member of several Continued on Page 8

GARDEN BOXES FOR RENT! The Tofield & Area Food Bank is offering their garden boxes to Tofield individuals or organizations in the community for rent.

$10 per box per year. Water is available. Contact Brenda if interested 780-918-8858 or kbfried@mcsnet.ca

Tofield’s Yvonne Brown is surrounded by members of her family as she accepts a plaque recognizing her years of volunteerism in the community from Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely. Brown was recognized, along with several community grant recipients, at a reception in Camrose on Feb. 5.

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Page 4 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Fishing and swimming among free Family Day activities Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter

One of Alberta’s two Family Fishing Weekends occurs this weekend, Saturday, February 15, to Monday, February 17, and in honour of the holiday, there is also a free swim at Ryley Pool on Saturday, sponsored by Fortis Alberta. "During Family Fishing Weekends, Albertans and visitors are encouraged to give fishing a try on waterbodies with open fishing seasons without having to purchase a sportfishing licence," the My Wild Alberta (MWA) website says.

"Fishing is a fun way for friends and family to make memories while connecting with some of Alberta’s greatest natural resources - our lakes, rivers, streams, and the fish that live in them," MWA explains. Fishing regulations still apply on the family fishing weekends, and all regulations can be found on the Alberta guide to sports fishing. Know before you go, says MWA, in their provided pointers before you hit the ice this weekend. "Review the regulations of the waterbody you are visiting. For example, the season, rules for bait, and

catch limits including the number and sizes of fish you are allowed to keep. “Practice identifying sport fish for the waterbody you are fishing. Know how to identify sport fish and aquatic invasive species. If you don't know, let it go,” MWA says. MWA also recommends a brush up on your fish handling skills, to organize your fishing kit, and make sure you have everything you need. “Clean, drain and dry your gear properly to prevent spread of aquatic invasive species and diseases,” MWA says. Alberta has approxi-

mately 300 stocked waterbodies for anglers to enjoy. Local to Beaver County, Black Nugget Lake is stocked with rainbow and tiger trout. If you prefer the water to be in liquid form for your Family Day weekend activities, Fortis Alberta is sponsoring free Family Day swimming at aquatic facilities across Alberta. "This exciting initiative will take place through-

out the Family Day weekend and will be hosted at aquatic centers across our service territory," Fortis says. Throughout the weekend, February 15 to 17, there are many facilities hosting a free swim. Locally, Ryley Pool is hosting a free swim sponsored by Fortis on Saturday, February 15, from 1 to 4 p.m. "We are very thankful to Fortis Alberta to do this

for us. I am sure there will be lots of people attending the free swim,” Susie Williams, Ryley Pool manager said. "It's happening on the Family Day Saturday, when we don't usually have a free swim," Williams added, as sponsored free swims happen every second Sunday of the month. This makes for a secondary free swim in which all community members can attend.

VANESSA POITRAS PHOTO

Throughout the weekend, February 15 to 17, there are many facilities hosting a free swim. Locally, Ryley Pool is hosting a free swim sponsored by Fortis Alberta on Saturday, February 15, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Camrose County Ag Services Office 4238 - 37 St Camrose AB

you are invited to join in a fun evening at CCA for an

Auction & Supper Saturday March 1st, 2025 at Cornerstone Christian Academy Kingman, Alberta

Doors open @ 4:30 silent and live auction

Lasagne Supper (with a cash beverage concession)

$15.00 Adults/Students 11 and over $8.00 6-10 years Free - 5 years and under To reserve tickets please call (780) 672-7197

Tofield Hearing Clinic Tuesday, February 18, from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Donation items for the auction are welcome -

please have items delivered to school by February 24th (all proceeds from the auction benefit the operation of the school)

Tofield Medical Clinic

1-877-313-5582

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday,February 12, 2025 - Page 5

Launch of Ryley business grant fosters community involvement Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

The Village of Ryley’s business and commercial grant encourages local businesses to take an active role in the community through volunteerism. Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Glen HamiltonBrown said he began working on revamping the grant in 2019, but since his return as CAO, the changes have been completed to add incentives for local business owners. “The grant is a business and commercial property incentive that encourages businesses to improve a couple of things. The first one being to improve and update their facades, or their fronts, to keep them aesthetically pleasing. Secondly, to stimulate community interaction and business interaction with community events,” he said. “We are trying to bring economic development and business into all aspects of Ryley, to try and work together as a community,” Hamilton-Brown said. “When I first started as CAO in 2019, Ryley had a thing they called the business tax rebate, and while it had goals and objectives, it wasn't really tied to anything. It was just stated, so it really didn't have any, I'm going to say, teeth, to ensure that businesses followed through on them. The second thing was that the money didn't

go to the businesses, it went to the property, the landowners, because it was a tax rebate,” he said. “It was okay if it was a business where the business owner and the landowner were the same. But at the time, for example, the Chinese restaurant was one business owner with a different landowner, and so it didn't make sense to me that we would give all the money to the landowner only and not encourage the business. “The second thing I identified that I wanted to change was to tie it like a grant, where people had to earn it, actually do stuff to get the grant, instead of just gifting it and then not really enforcing the goals and objectives of the plan,” he said. “So, the grant is primarily for improving the facade of your building, but it's also for things like participating in Ryley events, getting involved in community groups, like committees and such,” he said. Businesses are able to apply for this grant annually, once their taxes have been paid in full. Home based businesses are not eligible, as only businesses in the commercial district are able to apply. “The grant can only be applied for by a business owner who will receive 60 per cent of the total monies granted. Commercial landowners will receive grant monies

automatically when a business owner on their property receives grant monies. A commercial landowner of a qualifying business will receive up to 40 per cent of the total monies granted, prorated to match the portion of 60 per cent granted to the business,” the policy says. “Funding for the program is to be done from the receipt of taxes generated. Grant shall not exceed 50 per cent of the total non-residential tax paid by the property owner of the location of the businesses applying. For example, a municipal tax of $2,000 on a central business district property receiving 50 per cent of the municipal tax amounts to $1,000 maximum grant possible,” the policy says. Qualifying grant application criteria for disbursement includes upgrades to the façade, up to 35 per cent, local participation by becoming a Ryley council board or committee member, up to 25 per cent, volunteering as the business in a municipal event, up to 10 per cent, other upgrades to the property or building, up to 10 per cent, and any two of the following up to 20 per cent: business owner is a signatory of the Ryley Business Guild

Grand opening for Tofield’s new youth drop-in centre Monday Kelsey Witham Staff Reporter

On Monday, Feb. 17, Tofield Beaver County Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) will be hosting the grand opening of Tofield’s new youth drop-in centre. Being family day and a day off from school, families with youth aged 10-18 are encouraged to stop by between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to help celebrate the grand open-

ing with pizza and games. The youth centre is located in the Tofield Arena, in the old North Star room. Going forward the centre will be open to the youth Monday through Thursday evenings. Local organizations have donated a pool table, games, and other supplies to create an enjoyable, safe environment for the town’s teens to spend their evenings.

through the Village of Ryley Community Resource Centre, a development permit application has been submitted for the property in which the business is located or development is currently taking place, proof of active advertising for the business, employment of four or more employees which can include the business owner, contribution to Ryley Welcome Packages for new residents, and offering student employment and or summer student opportunities. When asked what the benefits are for the Village and the business owners, Hamilton-Brown said it provides a mission and focus for moving the community forward.

“The benefits to the Village is that it brings the attention of the business and the landowners to get involved with community events and to be aware of the goals and objectives of the Village. Also, building

the aesthetic look of the village, and I would say the other part is that the Village now has a more focused effort in stimulating business and economic development,” he said.

2025 Outdoor Soccer

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Church Directory Bardo Lutheran Church Salem Mennonite Church Worship: Sundays at 10:30 AM 49232 Rge Rd 184 Tofield, AB Pastor Calvin Andringa Sunday Worship Services: In Person – 10:00 AM Streaming – 10:00 AM Livestream available at: tofieldalliancechurch.com

We find joy and hope when we are joined to and rooted in Christ!

Pr. Peter Beckman www.bardolutheranchurch.ca 780-662-2762 • 5907 - 49 Street 5609 48th St. - 780-662-3411 TOFIELD COMMUNITY CHURCH Sunday Worship Service 10:30am

Tofield United Church

www.tofieldchurch.com

4832 - 53 Ave, Tofield

4619 - 57 Ave

(780) 662-3 3166

Lead Pastor:

Jon Stewart Children/Youth Pastor:

Nathan Nichols

Sunday Worship Service @ 10 am in person or via zoom/phone

for more information call 780.662.3471 or email tofieldunited@gmail.com

Pastor Mark Loewen 780-662-2365 Sunday School for all ages at 9:45 am Sunday Worship 10:45 am

St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Parish Pastor: Fr. Jim Corrigan Sunday Mass @ 11 A.M. 5523 - 50 st. Tofield, Ab.

Coffee and snacks after Mass, everyone welcome! Contact Wendy @ 780-232-5300

Page 6 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday,February 12, 2025

OPINION

Want to have your say? Write a Letter: news.toﬁeld@gmail.com (all opinions must be signed to be published)

Team Canada is only a team in hockey, not U.S negotiations So we dodged a bullet last week, when the diplomacy skills of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau got U.S. President Donald Trump to hold off on his threat to impose tariffs on Canada for at least a month. Whew! But hold on. Do you really think Trump isn’t going to resurrect the threat of tariffs at the end of this new timeframe? Of course he is (In fact on Sunday he announced tariffs on steel and aluminum). He has a strong hand against what right now is probably one of the weakest opponents he’s ever faced in the moribund Liberal government. When the 30-days are

up, there will be two or three days before a new Liberal leader and prime minister will be installed. Will it be the man unelected to any seat in Parliament Mark Carney - an unelected Prime Minister of Canada! Just who would he be representing when facing off against Trump? Or maybe it will be squeaky, bobbing and weaving Chrystia Freeland. At least she has a seat in Parliament. But when it comes to dealing with Trump, she openly admits he doesn't like her. That really has to build up the confidence going into strategic negotiations. So since the 30-day reprieve was awarded, Premiers and even Justin

Trudeau have been touting the Team Canada approach. You know all for one, one for all. But Trudeau has basically stolen Danielle Smith’s playbook. That’s no problem because it was the best solution at the time. And now she's pushing for more pipelines running east and west across Canada to get oil and LNG to Canadian tidewater ports for markets overseas. You know, those markets that Trudeau says there is no market for. Meanwhile Alberta Energy minister Rebecca Schultz was in Japan last week letting that country know Alberta is open for business and we have an abundance of

LNG to send to that country. Justin held a meeting to discuss setting an agenda for a meeting. That’s the Liberals' style. Spend money on meetings dithering around while accomplishing nothing but taking more money from Canadians pockets books. And when it comes to Team Canada, suddenly Team Quebec roared back to life. Pipelines are socially unacceptable so there will be none going across his province, Premier Francois Legault thundered. And then, out of the blue, up piped NDP leader Jagmeet Singh like a critter in a whack a mole game agreeing with Que-

bec’s position. What a Team Canadaplayer Singh is. Just two more weeks until he gets his undeserved pension, which he has propped the Liberals up for more than a year to achieve. And Bloc Quebecois leader Yves-Francois Blanchet has also agreed with this position. So let’s get real. There’s no Team Canada. That is a farce propagated by the Liberals in order to hold another meeting. Meanwhile, Smith and several of her cabinet colleagues are again in Washington, and several U.S states, meeting with legislators making the case of not imposing any tariffs after the 30-day grace pe-

riod is up. So one province is working for its residents and Canada. Another province is holding an election taking all the steam out of its negotiating position. And yet another is blowing up any unity in Canada by stubbornly refusing to allow a pipeline across its territory. That is a pipeline that would definitely strengthen this country’s economy. What a mess this country is. Smith has been accused of being a traitor to Canada when in reality she is the only one working aggressively to help the country. JOHN MATHER

Canadians want federal government to Letter: Unbiased advertise with Canadian news media reporting

Nearly two-thirds of Canadians (65 per cent) want the federal government to commit a percentage of its advertising budget to Canadian news media, according to a new survey conducted by Totum Research. “The Government of Canada’s decision to resume advertising with Meta is a real kick in the shins to independent publishers across Canada,” said Dave Adsett, publisher of the Wellington Advertiser and chair of News Media Canada. “Disinformation travels faster than the truth, and it sends the wrong signal to local

advertisers when the government is rewarding a company that is unwilling to fact check information on its own platforms.” Almost two thirds (63 per cent) of Canadians trust advertising in newspapers/news sites, while just 28 per cent trust ads they see on Facebook/Instagram. “News publishers call on the federal government to follow the Government of Ontario’s lead to and support the home team by earmarking 25 per cent of their advertising budget to trusted news sources,” said Paul Deegan, president and CEO of News Media

Canada. “Last year, just two per cent of all federal advertising dollars went to all print publications in the country combined.” When it comes to their preferred medium to receive information about federal government programs and initiatives, more than half (58 per cent) of respondents cited newspapers/news sites, while only 17 per cent chose Facebook/Instagram. Totum Research conducted an online survey, on behalf of News Media Canada, of 2,418 adult Canadians between December 9-22, 2024 / January 6-20, 2025, with a

maximum margin of error of ±2.0% at the 95% confidence level. About News Media Canada News Media Canada is the voice of the print and digital news media industry in Canada and represents hundreds of trusted titles in every province and territory. News Media Canada is an advocate in public policy for daily and community media outlets and contributes to the ongoing evolution of the news media industry by raising awareness and promoting the benefits of news media across all platforms. For more information, visit www.newsmediacanada.ca.

Dear Editor, I recently completed your Mercury Reader Survey, where I commended the newspaper for its fine and unbiased reporting. However, my opinion was challenged after reading the January 29 edition, which included the article titled "Alberta Medical Association Speaks Out Against Alberta Covid-19 Report." Typically, your coverage provides a report followed by opposing viewpoints to ensure balanced journalism. Unfortunately, the ar-

ticle in question predominantly focuses on condemning the Alberta Covid-19 Report, relegating the report's findings to a brief mention at the end. This approach does not meet the standard of fair and unbiased journalism that I have come to expect from The Mercury. I trust this deviation from your usual balanced reporting is not indicative of a new direction for the newspaper. Sincerely, Paul McKinstry

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 - Page 7

RCMP Report Tofield RCMP looking for information regarding attempted Ryley ATM break-in Tofield RCMP reported an attempt to break into the ATM in Ryley late Saturday night, Feb. 8 The ATM was damaged in the process but not breached.

RCMP arrived quickly and the subjects had fled. “It’s very early in the investigation but we are wishing to speak with anyone who saw unusual activity or

vehicles in that area overnight Saturday, Feb. 8, and into the early hours of Sunday, Feb. 9,” Tofield RCMP detachment acting commander Cpl. Ken Sawyer said.

A reminder that any ‘anonymous’ information MUST be submitted via Crimestoppers and may be eligible for a reward.

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

KARI JANZEN PHOTO

Elder abuse cases continue to rise Cassandra Lundbek Staff Reporter

One year after reporting a significant increase in elder abuse cases, Loretta Kroeker, case manager for the Rural Elder Abuse Prevention Coalition (REAP), says the troubling trend has continued. In February 2024, she noted a sharp rise in cases, with one new case reported every week since September 2023. This pattern not only persisted but has also seen previous cases resurface every one to two months. Financial abuse remains the leading concern. Kroeker estimates

that over 90 per cent of her cases involve adult children moving back home, often under the pretense of helping their aging parents. “Many seniors are living on a single pension,” she said. “Their finances are overextended, and they are getting older. Their adult children step in and suggest they give them power of attorney. It’s happening very, very frequently.” “Once it’s in place, it’s very difficult to reverse, and most seniors can’t afford a family lawyer to fight it,” she said. Adding to the challenge, power of attorney disputes must be han-

dled by a family lawyer rather than a criminal lawyer, and there are few in the area. Accessing legal help often requires travel to places like Camrose or Vegreville. This is made even more difficult by the fact that the very person appearing to assist them is often the one abusing them and is unlikely to help them reach a lawyer. Kroeker is attempting to address this gap by compiling a comprehensive list of family lawyers in the region who can assist. “Right now, I only have three on my list, but I’m constantly searching for more,” she said. Continued on Page 8

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Page 8 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Yvonne Brown honoured Continued from Page 3

Elder Abuse on the rise Continued from Page 7

While financial exploitation continues to be an issue, Kroeker has seen a troubling increase in more aggressive emotional and psychological abuse. “Abusers are getting meaner. They remove electronics and take steps to socially isolate their parents. They are just plain mean to their parents,” she said. To ensure her own safety, Kroeker asks several questions prior to making a home visit. “Are there guns in the house? Do you live alone? Does the person abusing you live with you or visit under the pretense of being a caregiver?” When necessary, she has the RCMP or bylaw officers escort her. She noted that many bylaw officers go above and beyond to ensure she is not unescorted when it might be necessary. Legal action remains difficult, as many seniors hesitate to take steps like

organizations. Brown received a standing ovation as she made her way to the stage. “Some might say it is so easy to work in the community,” she said

after taking the gage. “Bu it’s so much easier when you have all this help. One person alone does not and should not do everything. It takes all of us to get the work done.” She said the friends in

the crowd had all worked very hard to benefit the c o m m u n i t y . She pointed out the good work done by the Tofield Golden Seniors Club. “It was close to closing

filing restraining orders or pressing charges. “It’s very hard to convince parents to take legal action against their own children,” Kroeker said. Over the past year, Kroeker has continued to focus on education and prevention, particularly through a course called ‘Neighbours, Friends, and Families: It’s Not Right’, which originated in Ottawa. “It teaches people how to help a neighbor who might be in trouble. “Seniors today were raised with the mindset that you don’t interfere in other people’s business, so this course helps them understand how to offer support,” she explained. She primarily presents the workshops in community centres, seniors' clubs, and independent living facilities like the Sunshine Villa and the Tofield Seniors Lodge. “I adjust the presentation depending on their living situation,” she said. Kroeker admits that she would be unable to present these workshops the way she does with-

out the crucial help of local Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), who often allow her to photocopy materials and help find businesses to provide lunch or cover location expenses. Despite the increased awareness, underreporting of elder abuse remains a challenge. “It’s still going unreported,” Kroeker acknowledged. “It’s a very slow process. Pamphlets in doctor’s offices no longer work. The advertising has to change with the climate,” A new program, ‘safe houses,’ is being introduced in other municipalities to provide short-term housing for seniors making the decision to leave an abusive situation. This program was developed in recognition that seniors have unique needs that are not met in traditional abuse shelters due to the diversity of the clientele. However, municipalities must find appropriate locations and staffing for these safe houses. “We haven’t opted to join them at this time because we don’t have the

personnel resources to implement it in our area,” Kroeker said. She remains hopeful that, one day, a senior-specific safe house can be established in the area. Kroeker stresses the importance of proactive financial and legal planning to prevent abuse. “One of the most important things seniors need to know is that they should find someone they trust—long before they need that person’s signature for power of attorney. Don’t wait until you’re 75 to put your paperwork in order,” she advised. Kroeker encourages open conversations within families. “Speak to your children early, so no one is surprised, and plans are already in place. If you wait until they’re in your house demanding things, it’s much harder to protect yourself.” Kroeker also warns against a common mistake: “Don’t give your debit or credit card to anybody!” For referrals or more information, contact your local Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) office.

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but a group of us said that’s not going to happen and we now have a very massive building project going on. “What a job this group has done at renewing the Golden Club,” she said.

“Thank you, you're awesome.” She said positivity was the way to go. She added her family had provided great support and allowed her to “be who I am.”

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 - Page 9

TRIBUTE TO HEALTH CARE WORKERS

Saluting those in

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Thank you, health care workers, for your commitment and dedication.

You are all heroes!

The Mayor, Councillors and Staff at the Town of Tofield would like to thank all of the hard working health care workers! We appreciate you and are grateful for your hard work.

Page 10 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday,February 12, 2025

TRIBUTE TO HEALTH CARE WORKERS Thank you to our health care workers!

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BEAVER EAVERC COUNTY OUNTYSS SEED EEDC CLEANING LEANINGC C B ---OP B COO O -OP OP BEAVER EAVER C COUNTY OUNTY SEED EED C CLEANING LEANING C O OP Sale: For September Sale:For Common Seed Oats, OPEN &BY October November APPOINTMENT ONLY Common Seed Oats Pony and Barley Open byOats appointment only

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Wednesday,February November4, , 2023, Volume 16, Issue 46 Wednesday, 2024, 17, 49 Wednesday December February12, 16 2025, 2022 Volume Volume18, 15 Issue Issue06 7

Claystone Waste makes top 80 employers list once again Kelsey Witham For the seventh time, Claystone Waste Ltd. has made the Top 80 employers list and has been recognized for providing an exceptional workplace environment. Alberta’s Top Employers is an annual competition that evaluates eight different categories. These include workplace culture, benefits, training, community involvement, career development opportunities, and commitment to sustainability. Claystone Waste is responsible for providing 62 full-time jobs, ultimately having a significant role in the local economy. The company was recognized specif-

ically for the health benefits, pension plans and the option to apply for a paid education leave of absence (to 30 weeks) along with full tuition subsidies for job-related courses. “We’re one of the largest employers in the county,” says Jeanie DeGrande, human resources and payroll manager. “As part of the community, we do things a little differently to benefit our rural employees. We cover 100 per cent of health and dental for employees and their families. Beyond insurable benefits, the company provides $500 per year for wellness pursuits, from a gym membership to fees for a child’s skating lessons,” DeGrande said. The company has plans to celebrate this achievement with the staff at an upcoming general meeting.

Beaver County accepts water report Councillors at Ag Societies convention Patricia Harcourt Beaver County Council accepted the county Water Assessment Report at its January 15 regular meeting. The report had been vetted that morning at the Governance and Priorities Committee (GPC) meeting by committee members, who are the same persons to sit on county council in a different capacity. After a discussion held in closed session with no accompanying public documents included, GPC made a recommendation that council accept the report. With that done, Chief Administrative Officer Kayleena Spiess said she would be “moving the report down the line,” to the local municipalities for information adding that “the group needs to be involved.” Four motions were then passed, including Councillor Lionel Williams’ (Division 2) motion to release the water assessment report,”to the towns and villages for their councils to review.” A motion by Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) to provide an updated summary report was passed. The third motion by Councillor Barry Bruce (Division 4) was passed for Beaver County to provide an updated

summary of the water report as discussed to the meeting of joint council on February 13. A fourth motion by Williams was also passed for the Beaver Regional Partnership to be contacted about the attendance of the Beaver Emergency Services Commission and the Highway 14 Regional Water Commission at the April 17 BRP meeting to discuss the water study report. Beaver County Council held a special virtual meeting on Monday, December 23, that was also held in closed session regarding the water report. At that time council passed a motion in open session by Hrabec “that council release the November 2024 Water Assessment Report prepared by Bearisto and Associates in confidence to the Highway 14 Regional Water Services Commission.” The motion also directed administration to invite commission representatives to a closed session meeting to discuss the report with them. Although it has now bee released to the urban municipalities in the county region, the report has ot been made available to the public for viewing at this time.

There was local representation at the 78th annual convention of the Alberta Association of Agriculture societies. Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely was there along with Beaver County Councilors (from left) Barry Bruce (Division 4), and Lionel Williams (Division 2), and Deputy Reeve Eugene Hrabec (Division 3). Over 100 agriculture societies participated from all over Alberta. Lovely explained that “the objective is to keep communities vibrant through agriculture societies. Networking, education sessions and shared ideas of best practices and opportuPHOTO COURTESY MLA LOVELY nities are freely given at this annual gathering.”

2 - Beaver County Chronicle, February 12, 2025

FARMERS PESTICIDE CERTIFICATE CERTIFICAT A E COURSE Attention Farmers: Are you certified? Certification Course!

Join the Farmer Pesticide

When: March 12, 2025 - 9:00 AM Where: Daysland Community Hall, 5029 51 Ave, Daysland Dayssland Why attend: Minimize risks and enhance safety. Access restricted pesticides Recertify f for 5 years - no exam required! This one-day course led by certified experts Dr. Bill Hamman and Erin McIlwrath, covers essential topics like pesticide safety, legislation, and pest management to keep you compliant and up-to-date with industry standards. Early bird fee: $150 Seats are limited - book today!

GREEN ACREAGES WORKSHOP SERIES Green Acreages has expanded its program to include virtual webinars to any acreage, hobby farm, or recreational property owner across Alberta! February 19, 2025 - Planting Native Trees and Shrubs with Agroforestry and Woodlot Extension Society March 18, 2025 - Mitigating the Risk of Wildfire with FireSmart Alberta March 25, 2025 - Working with Beavers with Cows and Fish Riparian Management Society Register today by visiting www.landstewardship.org or scan the QR code!

IMPORTANT IMPORTA T NT DATES DAT A ES February 17 Office Off f ice Closed - Family Day February 19 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. - Regular Council Meeting March 4 9:30 am - 4:30 pm - Governance and Priorities Committee ee Meeting

WHATS WHAT A S HAPPENING IN OUR COMMUNITY T Book Club Location: Ross Creek Community Hall, 531041 Rge Rd 191 Rural book club that meets the first Tuesday of each month. Meetings run from 7PM - 8PM, all ages welcome! Tofield AA A - Thursdays, 8 - 9 PM Basement of Bardo Lutheran Church, 4737 57 Ave, Tofield. Viking AA A - Wednesdays, 8 PM, Zoom option also available. Golden Valley Lutheran Church, 5327 56 Ave, Viking. https://area78aa.org/meetings/147-3 https:// / area78aa.org/meetings/1 / 47-3 Submit i yo y your ur eve event/s, v nt/ t/s, meetin meetings i gs g and/ and/or d/or gatheri gatherings rings g to t the events eve v nts t ca c calendar l nda le d r on the w we b it bs ite! Just Jus u t head to t the we w b it bs ite, unde d r the Ex E xplo l re r menu cl c lick on Co C unty t Reg e io i n website! website, under Explore click County Region E Ev vents t Ca C l nda le d r. r We W have v part r nere r d wi w ith Go Ea E ast to t share r lo llocal c l eve ca v nts t on our Events Calendar. partnered with East events w we b it bs ite! website!

COMMUNITY T SUPPORT GRANT DEADLINE Beaver County values the incredible work of community organizations! Through the Community Support Grant program, we provide funding and in-kind support to help bring impactful projects proj o ects to life. Thinking about applying? Here’s what you’ll need: A completed application form, A detailed project proj o ect budget, The organization’s most recent financial statements, Evidence of financial need or quotes for the project. proj o ect.

Deadline: February 28, 2025 For more details and to find the application form scan the QR code or email communications@beaver.ab.ca

RESIDENTIAL SNOW CLEARING With winter in full swing, we want to remind residents about residential snow clearing as per the County’s Snow Clearing and Ice Control Policy. If you are a county resident needing your driveway plowed this winter, here’s what you need to know: Signed Agreement Required - A signed agreement with the County must be in place before any snow removal can be done. Prepayment Required - Dependent on service type, prepayment may be required as per county policy. Request Service - Driveways are only plowed when requested. Timing and Av A ailability - Snow removal varies based on a Availability number of factors - we cannot guarantee a set timeframe. To learn more about the County’s snow removal process, or to fill out an agreement, scan the QR code.

Beaver County | 5120 - 50th Street, Box 140, Ryley AB, T0B 4A0 | 780-663-3730 | beaver.ab.ca

Beaver County Chronicle, February 12, 2025 - 3

DID YOU KNOW? Altering wetlands or natural streams without permission from Alberta Environment and Protected Areas (AEPA) is actually illegal. It’s all about keeping our ecosystems thriving and preventing those pesky k flooding issues. Apart from environmental love, illegal drainage can wreak havoc on our roads. Pooling water weakens road integrity, turning a minor puddle problem into a full-blown road repair headache. That’s why if drainage doovers aff f ect our roads, we’re on it affect reporting to AEPA and giving a friendly heads -up to landowners to fix the flow.

SUNDAY FEBR FEBRUARY 16, 1 PM HOLDEN H OL LDEN COMMUNITY CO HALL 4919 HOLDEN, AB 49 919 - 49 Ave. A

Let’s work together to preserve these natural areas and keep our roads safe. After Aft f er all. good neighbours and land stewards make Beaver County shine brighter!

Admission Admission - $ 5 per person Musicians/Participants Musicia Musi icians ns/Part rticiipants pants - No No Charge Charge Come Dance & Listen to the Music! For more info: F Dave Da ave 780-720-5839 7 orr beaverhillplayers17@gmail.com o beaverhillplayers17@gmail.c com

For more information, scan the QR code!

DEVELOPMENT PERMITS The following Development Applications have been APPROVED (except (exc cept where otherwise noted) by the Development Authority under the provisions provissions of Land Use Bylaw No. 98-801, subject subj b ect to the right of appeal to the relevant vant appeal body - Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB) or Land and Property Rights Tribunal (LPRT). APPEAL DEADLINE Appeal Body Application No. Applicant Landowner Location Development

FEBRUARY R 20, 2025 ISDAB 020020-25-D0001 BROCK MASCHMEYER MARILY L N & PETER HRITZUK MARILYN NE-34-50-19-W4 Discretionary r Use with 121.52 ft f Variance from Minimum Front Yard Setback & 26 ft2 f 2 Variance from Maximum Site ft 96 ft2 f 2 Sign ft

Any person wishing to appeal an application may do so by serving written notice on the prescribed form f rm (stating fo reasons for f r the appeal) to the relevant appeal body. For fo information info f rmation on how to appeal can be fo ffound und our our website under Services > Planning & Development > Appealing Planning Decisions information Further info f rmation regarding the above decisions may be obtained from the County t Office, Off f ice, Ryley, Alberta.

Riders are reminded to respect landowners by avoiding private fields, as operating snowmobiles and other off f -highway vehicles off-highway without permission is considered trespassing. As per Bylaw No.05893, off f -highway vehicles must off-highway travel single file on the far right side of the road, following traffic traff f ic flow. Riding in ditches is not permitted.

Atte Attention A ention outdoor enthusiasts! Bookings fforr Black Nugget and Camp Lake Park fo ope en on Saturday, March 1st at 9:00 am! e open

Beaver County is currently accepting submissions for the following:

Acc cess the online booking c Access too ol on our website under o tool the e Explore menu or visit lets sscamp.ca. letscamp.ca.

RFQ2025-08INFR Septic Services Closes: February 24, 2025 @ 9 a.m. Local time Please find complete information for all requests on our website > Business > RFPs, Tenders, Leases & Sales

NOMINATIONS NOMINAT A IONS OPEN FOR MUNICIPAL ELECTION Nominations are now open for the 2025 Municipal Election. Thinking of running for Council?

We’re looking for dynamic, motivated superheroes superherroes to join our team! What’s your superpower?!

Visit our website under: Government > Municipal Election 2025 or scan the QR code to view all Election information including key dates, the candidate information package, and nomination forms.

Stay S tay iin n the loop! loop! the

Seasonal Crew Members - Agriculturall Services For more information, and details on how to to apply, visit our website > Government Govern nment > Careers

Mailing list Get news, meeting highlights, the road construction schedule, the Chronicle, and more - direct to your inbox!

Social media

Website

Find us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Information on County programs and services can be found on our website, along with the latest news.

Beaver County | 5120 - 50th Street, Box 140, Ryley AB, T0B 4A0 | 780-663-3730 | beaver.ab.ca

4 - Beaver County Chronicle, February 12, 2025

Beaver County congratulates County considers industrial the Beaver Hills Biosphere park near Tofield Region on recent award Patricia Harcourt

Patricia Harcourt Beaver County officially recognized the Beaver Hills Biosphere Region Association’s Alberta Heritage Awareness Award at the county’s recent meeting of council. The county has been a member of the Beaver Hills organization since its inception, and Reeve Kevin Smook (Division 1) a strong supporter of its evolving nature up to being proclaimed a Biosphere site of the United Nations. Council passed a motion by Councillor Lionel Williams (Division 2) recognizing the Beaver Hills Biosphere Region Association’s selection for the Alberta Heritage Award. This means sending a letter of congratulations signed by Reeve Smook. The county will also establish a virtual “recognition of the Biosphere and its award on the county’s website,” which will include social media posts. Plus, the county will proclaim this award officially at a future council meeting. Margaret Jones, the county’s Manager of Legislative Services, explained the role of the Biosphere organization, of which part of the county lies within its borders. A sign on Highway 14 near Range Road 200 marks the entry into the Biosphere.

“With Alberta Transportation’s approval the sign would be enlarged to recognize the Biosphere as the recipient of this latest award,” said Jones, as one of the county’s options. In 2016, the county proclaimed September 9 as “Beaver Hills Biosphere Day” in Beaver County. This was prompted by UNESCO’s proclaiming the Beaver Hills as a Biosphere, giving it world-wide status as an international heritage site. The county’s website already recognizes the Beaver Hills Biosphere at www.beaver.ab.ca/tourism/nature-hotspots and will be updated with this latest award. The county is encouraging the public to find out more about the Biosphere, which Jones described as “an association that stewards the Biosphere and supports partners working together for a sustainable region through shared initiatives and collaborative action. “Their work is founded on the guiding principles open collaboration, inclusive engagement and shared knowledge,” she said. Brian Illnicki, executive director of the Beaver Hills Biosphere Region Association, will be invited to participate in the proclamation ceremony that the county plans to initiate at an upcoming meeting.

Claystone Waste offers volunteer opportunity to interested locals Kelsey Witham Claystone Waste is searching for a dedicated volunteers to join their team on the Public Advisory Committee (PAC). The PAC is a committee of the Claystone Board of Directors, and their mandate is to bring issues and concerns from residents to the Claystone Board of Directors. “This is an excellent opportunity for an individual to learn more about Claystone operations, learn about waste management and the environment, and share the perspective of the community to our Board of Directors,” Communications and Public Relations

Advisor Jackie Sargent said. When taking on this volunteer position, individuals can expect to meet four to five times per year, usually a couple of weeks before the regular Board Meetings. The meetings take place in the Ryley Office at 5 p.m. Dinner is provided, along with a reimbursement of vehicle mileage to get to the office. The position is flexible; if a volunteer is unable to attend in person, they can attend remotely via online, whichever is most convenient. Opportunities to represent Claystone at events, such as the annual open house, are also an option as a volunteer.

ADVERTISE IN YOUR LOCAL PAPER!

A third industrial park for the western end of the county is under preliminary study. Beaver County Council put an emergent item on the agenda of their January 15 meeting. Listed under the Inter-Municipal Development Plan, the issue has been discussed in closed session by the Governance and Priorities Committee (GPC) last year. It was brought forward from the GPC meeting that morning of January 15 after GPC recommended it for council to make a decision regarding establishing another industrial park. The county already has two industrial parks including Equity Industrial Park (EIP) near Ryley and Viking/Beaver industrial park at

Viking. Now an industrial park for the west end is under consideration. “We’re looking at the possibility of a third industrial park (with Tofield),” said Chief Administrative Officer Kayleena Spiess. A motion by Reeve Kevin Smook, who represents Division 1 where the development would be located, was passed for council to pursue the idea of establishing a business park with the Town of Tofield. As this is a preliminary stage in the pursuit of a development, there would still be opportunities to settle questions such as how far from the town the industrial park should be located. Following the motion, council immediately went into closed session for further discussion.

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY OPPORTUNITY

Executive Director Executive Director EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

www.flagwaste.ca Ph: 780-384-3950 www.flagwaste.ca Ph: 780-384-3950

Flagstaff Waste is currently seeking a motivated individual to lead staff and oversee all company activities including waste bin rentals/collections operations, curbside waste collection, multi-stream recycle collection, processing, sorting and marketing, transfer site operations and all activities related to operating a Class II landfill for 10 municipalities within Flagstaff County. Duties: •Business planning, budgeting and financial controls with a view to long-term strategic goals. •Develop, maintain and ensure compliance with internal Human Resources, Audit & Finance, and Health & Safety Policies with focus on staff retention in a safe workplace culture. •Coordinate direct reporting and feedback with a Board of Directors representing 10 partner municipalities making up this not-for-profit Society. •Ensure legislative compliance for all regulated matters related to environment, WCB, Solid Waste Association regulated requirements, maintain registrations and Code of practices related to Landfill operations, trucking, OH&S and Alberta Employment standards. •Lead a multi-disciplinary team employing HR goal setting and performance review processes that ensure high productivity and safety with end goal of optimized efficiency. Negotiate high-value health benefits, pension plans and insurance products for staff and the company. •Manage heavy equipment and trucking fleets with maintenance programs, and right-sized replacement plans. Enable GPS systems to manage routes and for driver safety. •Continually grow customer base through marketing, relationships and service. •Annual reporting as required to Alberta Environmental Protection, Canada Composting Council, WCB, CRA, GST, Annual Financial Audit, Federal Green House Gas, etc.

Qualifications: •Progression in employment history, demonstrating leadership and management skills. •Strong social skills with track record demonstrating positive work relationships with staff, vendors and customers. Demonstrate ability to develop long term solutions that work favorably for all parties. •Proven understanding of business principles and communicating progress using standard business reporting. •Organized, computer literate and ability to make highly productive use of time. •Applicants with work history within the waste industry and/or previous landfill operations experience are preferred. Applicants willing to relocate to Flagstaff County preferred. •Manager of Landfill Operations (MOLO) certification required within 1 year of hire.

Flagstaff Waste offers a dynamic workplace with a culture of strong customer service. We provide a competitive salary and a full benefit package including enrollment in a ‘defined benefits’ pension plan. If you wish to join our exciting team, submit resume to Murray Hampshire at murray@flagwaste.ca or mail to Box 309, Sedgewick, AB, T0B 4C0.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 - Page 11

TRIBUTE TO HEALTH CARE WORKERS 780-662-4842 5020-50 Ave. Tofield

Health Care Volunteers are always welcome!

Busy B Bargains North store 780-662-4116 South store 780-662-4325

780-663-3653 www.ryley.ca

The Village of Ryley Council & Staff would like to thank the Health Care workers for their commitment and dedication in helping people!

Thank you Health Care Heroes! From:

A huge THANK YOU to all the Health Care Workers!

John Daoust Shingle Co.

Tofield, AB (780) 662-4901

THANK YOU TO ALL HEALTH CARE WORKERS FOR KEEPING OUR COMMUNITY SAFE!

RYALTA INDUSTRIES LTD. Ryley, Alberta (780) 663-3759

From Tom & Staff at NAPA Tofield: 780-662-3212

Tofield Bottle Depot Located at 5304 - 56 St. • 780-662-3936 Tues. - Sat. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

We sort your bottles!

Thank you to the Health Care workers for your service to our community!

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Tofield Car, RV & Truck Wash 780-913-5318 Health Care Heroes

Thank you to health care workers! Your compassion and kindness do not go unnoticed.

Thank you to our local Health Care Workers! We appreciate all that you do! Beaver County Seed Cleaning CO-OP Phone: (780) 688-3917

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Healthcare Workers

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WE APPRECIATE ALL OUR HEALTH CARE WORKERS!

To the Health Care Workers! 5028 53 Ave. Tofield • 780-662-4400

Richard, Dylan, Dave, Kyle, and Christine

Thank you to all our Health Care Heroes!

Page 12 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025

CARC and Health Foundation update Tofield Chamber Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

Representatives from the Tofield Community Attraction and Retention Committee (CARC) as well as the Tofield and Area Health Services Foundation attended the Tofield and District Chamber of Commerce regular monthly meeting at the Beaverhill Lake Nature Centre on Wednesday, Feb. 5. CARC Chair Cyndy Heslin and Anya Langkow, rural community consultant with Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP), spoke on what the committee has been doing and will continue to do, highlighting the upcoming post secondary skills weekend. “In collaboration with the newly formed CARC in Viking, and with RhPAP, we will welcome medical and nursing students from the University of Calgary to Beaver County from March 14 to 16. There will be events in both Viking and Tofield throughout the weekend, including a tour of Tofield Health Centre and our incredible long term care wing, followed by a lunch at Moonshine Cafe on the Sunday,” Heslin said. Langkow said providing opportunities for students to experience rural practice is a proven strategy for attracting health care providers to rural communities. “We collaborate with rural communities like yourself and schools to organize various high school and post secondary events across rural Alberta. We expose students to various professions in rural health, helping them to understand the scope of rural practice and hear stories directly from those rural care providers, highlighting your community gems, the available amenities, and the rural lifestyle,” Langkow said. “These events plant the seed for students to consider returning to the community they grew up in, or any rural community, to pursue a career in health care. The students do love these events, and many have ended up living and working in rural communities as a result of their participation,” she said. The 30 students who are coming to visit have indicated interest in a health care career in a rural setting. “Our post secondary weekend events offer health care students from a university, college, or technical school, who have expressed an interest in rural practice, the opportunity to both learn and experience work and lifestyle in a rural Alberta community for one to two days. With a focus on community engagement and highlighting your local amenities and lifestyle, your community can show the benefits of how their medical career can flourish in a rural

setting,” Langkow said. “Our committee’s purpose is to build a sustainable system for health professions, attraction and retention, in collaboration with local health care providers, which will ensure ongoing health care service provision to the community,” Heslin said. Heslin said some confuse CARC with the Health Foundation, or think they do the same things, but Heslin said CARC focuses on attracting and retaining health care professionals, while the Health Foundation purchases health care tools and equipment beyond what AHS provides. “Our unique partnerships with Tofield and Area Health Services Foundation is often confused with what the difference is between our two committees. The simplest and best way that we know to describe it is that the Health Foundation buys the things and the equipment that the Health Centre has on their wish list, that is not provided by AHS. “CARC’s objectives are to coordinate attraction of needed health care professionals with a focus on retaining them as long as possible, with efforts focused on settling in and integration of the health care provider, ensuring the family is fully supported, to ensure their quality of life interests are being met, as well as student outreach opportunities to facilitate community engagement in the attraction retention process, ensuring a collaborative approach to these efforts,” Heslin said. Heslin said CARC’s main focus in regards to retention is helping health care providers feel welcome and appreciated, encouraging them to stay and build their lives in the community. Some of these efforts are seen through giving welcome cards to all the new hires every month and Christmas cards to all staff at the Tofield Health Centre, as well as those who work at the Kalyna Country Primary Care Network, Tofield pharmacies, AHS home care and public health, and EMS. “During Rural Health Week in 2023 we partnered with Tofield Burger Barons to give 20 per cent off any ice cream for health care professionals to show our appreciation, and during international nursing week in 2023 we made thank you cards with packets of flower seeds inside. And it’s not just the health care professionals, we have so much support staff in our community that we like to acknowledge as well. We hosted a health care professionals barbeque in partnership with the Health Foundation during Rural Health Week in 2024,” Heslin said. Brenda Chehade, Vice Chair of the Health Foundation said the Foundation has a focus on preven-

OBITUARIES

DAVID REGINALD FAIRBROTHER Mar. 17, 1942 to Feb. 2, 2025 CARC Chair Cyndy Heslin provided updates on what the committee is up to, and highlighted the upcoming post-secondary skills weekend. KARI JANZEN PHOTOS

Tofield Health Foundation Vice Chair Brenda Chehade spoke with Chamber members on the Foundation's recent projects. tative health as well. “We try to do a lot of work on preventative health, for instance, we sponsor a free swim once a month in Ryley, to help get people out there and get some exercise year-round. “In contrast with CARC, we work more with the ‘stuff.’ For example, a recent thing that we did is, when children come into Emergency, they’re very stressed, they’re typically sick or hurt, and trying to get blood out of those poor little guys, the nurses really struggle with that. And it’s really hard on the kids, but AHS does not provide a vein finder. It’s a small thing, but it’s a huge thing. So, we purchased a vein finder for Emerg., for the kids, so that it’s less stressful for them when they’re there,” Chehade said. While the Health Foundation has a full board, Heslin said CARC is currently looking for members, and all are welcome to attend their monthly meetings. Chamber president Greg Litwin asked how the Chamber can help, and Heslin said by providing small items to include in gift baskets or donating thank you cards. Langkow added to that, and said monetary donations are always welcome. “The committee needs funds. They receive some funding from the municipalities, they apply successfully for an Attraction and Retention grant from RhPAP annually, but all of these efforts that they do continuously take funding. There are many ways as a business to contribute to supporting the health care in your community, because obviously having a robust health care system and their family here feeds the businesses,” Langkow said.

David Reginald Fairbrother passed away at his home on February 2, 2025 at the age of 82 years. Reg was born on the family farm near Spilstead Hall on March 17, 1942; he was the 9th of 11 children born to David and Marion Fairbrother. On November 30, 1963 Reg met Grace Grundberg while attending a post wedding dance at Spilstead Hall and their future was set. The two were married on July 18, 1964, at the Lutheran Church in Kingman. They shared a life together filled with more love and memories than one could ever dream to have. Theirs is a story that is truly one for the ages. They welcomed three children, Dwayne, Trevor and Colleen, many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Reg and Grace created a home that became a second home for so many, filled with conversation, stories told and memories made; coffee that was always on, laughter and warmth. Reg enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, feeding the birds & deer and mountain trips with his eldest son Dwayne, son-in-law Kaare and nephew Darrell. He was a jack of all trades, a man you could call when you needed a hand, an ear to bend or a shoulder to lean on and without hesitation, Reg would be there. Reg led a life to be admired and aspired to. He loved and is loved by so many; words cannot express how much he will be missed. Reg leaves behind his cherished wife of 60 years Grace; their two children, Trevor (Val), Colleen (Kaare); grandchildren, Kevin (Morgan), Jesse, Payton, Paisley, Stephanie (William), Ashley (Austin), and Ryan; his great-grandchildren, Elizaveta, Bryzen and Bryxton as well as his brothers, Mark (Veronica), Mann (Maureen) and sisters, Jewel, Diana (Ervin) and Darlene. Reg is predeceased by his parents, David and Marion, eldest son Dwayne, siblings, Lenora, Ila, baby brother Anson, and baby twin sisters Margret and Jane; brothers-inlaw, Earl Tally, Ole Rafet, Mike Marchuk and sister-in-law, Sylvia Fairbrother. A memorial service has taken place . Inurnment will take place at a later date at Tofield Cemetery. Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to a charity of one's choice. Weber Funeral Home 780-662-3959 www.weberfuneralhome.ca

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 - Page 13

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Page 14 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025

REMEMBER WHEN Youthful Scientists Donald McGaughey and Luella Lauber work on an experiment during a grade four science class at Ryley School as they attempt to discover what properties are contained in powders that look similar. Who said that school wasnʼt fun? This photo appeared in the Tofield Mercury on February 2, 1978.

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Plumbing & Heating

Real Estate Kevin Smook

Roofing John Daoust Shingle Co. Box 576, Tofield

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Journeyman Outdoor Power Equipment Technician N.E. Beaver County General repairs on lawn tractors, lawn mowers, snowblowers, chain saws, water pumps, quads, etc. Contact: Shawn 780-932-0131

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 - Page 15

CLASSIFIEDS

NOW ONLINE AT cariboupublishing.ca

All Classified Ads booked in our paper will also be posted online at the new online Classifieds Section at no additional cost. THOUSANDS of page views online every month in addition to our THOUSANDS of weekly readers. Plus our site is Employment. Employment. Events. Events. Thank Thank Yous. Yous. Memorials. Memorials. Services Services & & More! More! Google SEO optimized. IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE WITH US!

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COMING EVENTS COMING EVENTS

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

Sedgewick Lake Park Association Annual General Meeting Tuesday, February 18 at the Sedgewick Fire Hall Meeting at 7 pm New Members Welcome!

PICTURE $10

BOLD $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 ANNOUNCEMENTS

AUCTIONS AUCTIONS

COMING EVENTS COMING EVENTS Round Hill District Ag Society is hosting a hall expansion fundraiser Saturday, February 22 @ the Round Hill Community Centre. Supper @ 6:00 pm, followed by live entertainment as well as live and silent auctions. Limited tickets at the door. For advanced tickets call Dianna 780-6080215 06p

Happy Birthday Greg Ruzicka! Join us to celebrate 80 years of hard work, heart, and true grit at the Prague Hall on February 16th from 3-5 pm. Enjoy a coffee and dessert, no formalities, just an afternoon of shared memories. Tofield Golden Club Valentine's Day Tea: Friday, February 14, 2025 $5.00 at the door 5004 - 54 Ave, Tofield 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Enjoy a tea & dessert, and musical entertainment by Jenn Durrant beginning at 1:30pm.

The rolling stream of life rolls on, But still the vacant chair, Recalls you, the voice, the smile, Of the one who once sat there. In Quietness, In Confidence, and In Our Faith, We Remember You, Louie, Dad, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa ~The Family Stewart William Law December 3, 1941 February 17, 2018

Come Enjoy an Evening of Country Music February 15 at 7 p.m. Viking Senior Centre 5024-53 Ave Viking $20 per person Performed by: Darlene Thibault, Deb Hill, Loretta Neubuhr, Randy Kereliuk, Will Ryan, Dalte Lotsberg,. Lead Guitar by Ray Gathercole, Bass Guitar by Tim Rukaruck. Drums by Rob Hughes Enter to Win Mary Kay Valentines Jackpot $200 Memory-Making Package Earn multiple draw entries: attend a FREE virtual event or in-person facial, for every $50 after discounts at marykay.ca/smartens, or discover Mary Kay facts and insider info. Sonya Martens 780.240.4605

WIN 1 OF 12 $2500 DREAM VACATIONS. 48 draws of $120 plus many early bird prizes. Tickets at airdriedreamvacation.ca. Only 600 tickets printed.

MEMORIAL MEMORIAL In Loving Memory of LOUIS SUTTER who passed away on February 10, 2005

Family Day Celebration Killam Agriplex Sunday, February 16 After Sunday Mass SWIMMING 12:30 - 2 pm FAMILY MEAL in the Multipurpose Room 1 - 3 pm FREE! Bring Your Family and Invite Another Family to Join You! For More Information Call Liza 780-385-3503 or Geri 780-385-8311

Family and Friends are Invited to Join us for Coffee and Cake in Celebration of Marcella Schulte’s 99th Birthday Sunday, February 16 2 to 4 p.m. at the Strome Seniors Centre

BOWDEN REDDI-MART STORE AUCTION - Online February 14-19. Selling Ice Cream Machines, W/I Cooler, Shelving, Meat Equip & More. www.montgomeryauctions.com 403885-5149.

COMING EVENTS COMING EVENTS

Round Hill District Ag Society is hosting a hall expansion fundraiser Saturday, February 22 @ the Round Hill Community Centre. Supper @ 6:00 pm, followed by live entertainment as well as live and silent auctions. Limited tickets at the door. For advanced tickets call Dianna 780-6080215 TM05-07C

Does your club have an event planned?

Advertise in the Classifieds

Loved Ones May leave this world But they never Leave our Hearts In Loving Memory of a Wonderful Husband, Father, and Grandpa 06p FOR SALE SALE FOR Two-Horse Drawn Cutter. 2 Seater. phone 780-914-7861 Here are the prices for Strawberry Plants at Brian’s Greenhouse for 2025. All are Everlasting and are chemical free. $2 for 1 gallon pots. $1.75 for 2 inch pots. Bare roots $1 each. Contact 780-678-0053

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE MONDAYS AT 5 P.M.

Page 16 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025

CLASSIFIEDS

NOW ONLINE AT cariboupublishing.ca

HELP HELP WANTED WANTED

HELP WANTED

SERVICES

JP’s Country Daycare in Daysland is hiring for part time, ECE workers. We are a busy and growing daycare with a positive work environment. Email resume's to jpcountrydaycare@gmail.com

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.

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SERVICES SERVICES Sedgewick Lake Park is seeking applications for Park Manager for the 2025 season. May 1 to Sept. 30. Duties include guest registration, weekly deposits, maintenance and upkeep of the grounds, buildings and equipment, as well as supervision of summer students. Salary based on $6,000 per month. Resume to be submitted to sedgewicklakepark@gmail.com, or mailed to PO Box 536 Sedgewick, AB T0B 4C0. Deadline for applications is March 15, 2025. For further information, please email sedgewicklakepark@gmail.com 06/09c

Metal Installations Siding, roofing, soffit & fascia. Booking Now, Par-alta 780-485-7175

Flagstaff Taping & Texturing Murray Cholowsky Call or text at 780-385-1251

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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.

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 - Page 17

Five of 10 shows left of FEATURED PROPERTIES TOWN OF LAMONT Churchmice’s production of Grease Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

Kate Down of Tofield has performed three of five shows as co-star Sandy in the Churchmice Player's live production of Grease, a 1978 musical comedy. The production is double cast and has five of 10 shows left at the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre in Camrose. Churchmice Players board member Janine Carroll said about 170 people attended the show on opening night, Thursday, Feb. 6. Down said after her first set of shows, she is ready for a break to give her voice a rest, but looks for-

ward to her two remaining performances. “I'm ready for a little break so I can recharge my voice a little bit, but the energy is just incredible. Opening night was absolutely phenomenal. Every opening night has a couple of little hiccups, but they were so minor and so smooth that it was like it went off without a hitch,” she said. The premise of the story is that high school boy and leader of the T-Birds greaser gang Danny Zuko spends the summer having ditched his bad boy persona, and experiences a summertime romance with good-girl Sandy. Sandy’s family’s plans change and she ends up

attending the same school as Danny, Rydell High. But boys like Danny don’t go for girls like Sandy. Until Sandy is welcomed into the Pink Ladies’ clique, and eventually exchanges her flowery dresses and books for leather pants and cigarettes, winning Danny over once more. Down said her favourite scene to perform is the turning point for Sandy. “I think the scene with Rizzo and I, when she sings, There Are Worse Things I Could Do. Then I come on, stuff my bra and things, and I just love how the audience responds to that. It's wonderful,” she said. Continued on Page 19

PLANNING A SPRING AUCTION? Upcoming Farm & Real Estate Auction Sales Schut Farms (Real Estate) March 28th to April 1st

Take Advantage of our 60 Years in the Auction Business, conducting Annual Machinery Consignment Auctions held 5 times per year for the past 45 years.

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Dale & Donna Gartner March 28th to April 2nd Kelvin & Debbie Riley April 18th to 21st Neat Stuff Antiques April 25th to 28th JC Drilling, Welding & Fabrication May 1st to 5th Harold & Alice Stumpf May 2nd to 6th Realignment Auction May 9th to 12th Larry & Leanne Walton Real Estate & Farm May 9th to 13th Estate of Denis Mercier & Laureen Morck May 16th to 20th

We are Now Accepting Listing for Our Spring Machinery Consignment Auctions

Rimbey, Alberta - April 18th to 22nd Hwy #16/Rge Rd 185 - April 4th to 8th Whether you have one piece or a complete line of machinery give Aaron a call at (403) 913-9644 to discuss the best option for you to realize top dollars.

• 4712 51 St Lamont 5,800 sq ft shop with office and sales space. Shop was used for agricultural machinery repair. Price: $450,000

LAMONT COUNTY • W4-20-55-27-SE Plan 1023701 Block 1 Lot 1A Lamont County. 138.09 acres in the Lamont Heartland for industrial use. Located North of Highway 15 on Range Road 202. Price: $2,990,00 • HWY 834 between HWY 16 and TWP RD 530 Lamont County 19.48 acres with power and a holding tank. Nice building site. Price: $215,000.00

VILLAGE OF ANDREW

• 5317-50 Ave Andrew. An 18,000 sq. ft. manufacturing shop with office and storage space on 2.3 acres of land Price: $1,700,000

VILLAGE OF CHIPMAN

SOLD

• W4-18-54-29-NE N 54466 A RR184 Village of Chipman 38.75 acres 25± acres in hay. Double car garage, power, septic, and well nice building site. Price: $289,900

STRATHCONA COUNTY • SW Part of NW–23 –53 –23 –W4 40.55 acres North of Highway 16 on Range Road 232 in proposed medium industrial zoning with CP rail line at the border of the property. Price: $7,200,000 • Parts of SW and SE-7-53-22-W4 located at Highway 21 and Lakeland drive 63.62 acres of development land with Highway 21 exposure. The property is within the Bremner and local Employment Area ACP with expected future use of industrial. Price: $5,100,000

SOLD

THORHILD COUNTY • NW 1/4 -14-58-22-W4 and NE ¼ -14-58-22-W4 Plan 172-0793 Block 3 Lot 222 acres game farm with page wire 100 acres could be cultivated. 4 mile North of Redwater. Good HWY 28 access. Price:

SOLD

$690,000

SOLD

Dan Hart (Dan’s Trucking) May 23rd to 27th Estate of Lewis Andrew June 6th to 9th Estate of Ernie Glasel July 11th to 15th

Norman Hill

Allen B. Olson Auction Service Ltd. Rimbey Office - 403-843-2747 - Toll Free - 1-855-783-0556 Hwy #16 East/Rge Rd 185 Office - 780-208-2508 (License #165690) Email: abolson@telusplanet.net - Website: www.allenolsonauction.com

780-449-5622 | nhill01@telus.net www.hillrealty.ca

Steven Hill

Lauren Hill

Page 18 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025

STARTING BIDS $450K - $490K

STARTING BID $260,000

LEARN MORE

Two Hills Double-Up

Cash Cow

Selling February 25, 2025

Selling March 26, 2025

Two Hills, AB • 2 Parcels, 316 Acres

Vegreville, AB • 1 Parcel, 119 Acres, SLR $10,800

STARTING BID $590,000

STARTING BIDS $325K - $590K ‘En Bloc’: At the conclusion of the auction, Parcels 1 – 3 will be offered for sale ‘En Bloc’. Requirements:

LEARN MORE

Larson Legacy Selling March 27, 2025 Wainwright, AB • 1 Parcel, 156 Acres

• bid at least once on all Parcels AND • have been the high bidder on any 1 Parcel AND • have been the high or second highest bidder on a second Parcel. Starting Bid: $75,000

STARTING BIDS $220K - $590K ‘En Bloc A’: At the conclusion of the auction, Parcels 1 – 3 will be offered for sale ‘En Bloc’. Requirements: LEARN MORE

• bid at least once on all Parcels AND • have been high bidder on either Parcel 1 or Parcel 2.

Triple Horsepower

Starting Bid: $70,000

Toﬁeld, AB • 3 Parcels, ‘En Bloc,’ 478 Acres

Selling April 1, 2025

‘En Bloc B’: At the conclusion of the auction, Parcels 6 – 11 will be offered for sale ‘En Bloc’. Requirements:

STARTING BID $310,000

• bid at least once on all Parcels AND • have been high bidder on at least 3 of the Parcels. Starting Bid: $125,000

LEARN MORE

Lamont Top Grade

Bullish On Beef

Selling April 2, 2025

Selling April 16, 2025

Lamont, AB • 11 Parcels, 2 ‘En Blocs,’ 1,018 Acres

Innisfree, AB • 1 Parcel, 160 Acres

STARTING BID $310,000

STARTING BID $490,000

LEARN MORE

Lamont County Gem

Vermilion Vista

Selling July 22, 2025

Selling November 4, 2025

Lamont, AB • 1 Parcel, 160 Acres, SLR $6,500

Vermilion, AB • 1 Parcel, 80 Acres

+1 (866) 263-7480 info@clhbid.com

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 - Page 19

Musical Comedy Grease Continued from Page 2 In a previous interview with The Tofield Mercury, Down describes Sandy as having a quiet tenacity,

and that she has had fun bringing that into her role. “On paper Sandy is a very soft character and, at first, it's difficult to see much beyond her demurity, but she has a fierce heart and it's been fun to bring that out whenever I can,” she said. Down said Grease was a movie she loved from the

first time she watched it, even before she was old enough to understand everything that was going on. “I loved the movie, far before I could comprehend the nuance of it. The music was captivating and even if I was too young to wrap my mind around the issues the

characters were dealing with, I was hooked! “When I heard that Churchmice would be putting on Grease, I was surprised and excited. I knew I wanted to dive deeper into the story that makes these characters what they are. I had no

rather than scrutinize through a modern-day lens it was never designed for,” she said. “Playing Sandy and being part of this production has been such a great experience, and I love being able to share it with everyone,” Down said.

2 K’s Welding & Mulching Ltd. No Tree Too Big or Small!

Congratulations to the Winning Baby of 2024!

idea what to expect when the production began, and I'm glad that I didn't let myself form too many opinions right off the bat. Grease is classic and iconic in its own right, and while it's clearly reminiscent of a different time, I believe its story is one to preserve,

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