Last Tuesday, November 12, Canada Post’s largest union CUPW delivered 72 hours notice of job action. On early morning Friday, November 15, it went ahead with its warned strike action, shutting down mail delivery and unionized post offices country wide.
There had been some hope that strikes may be rotating as they have in the past, but that was ultimately not the case Unexpectedly, Canada Post countered Friday morning announcing that no mail would be processed at all during the strike, even rurally in non-CUPW post offices.
This was a departure from what Caribou Publishing had been told in the weeks leading up to the strike by regional post office officials, most of whom are non-CUPW employees and were expecting to be able to process local mail only.
Continued on Page 3
Canada Post CUPW employees in Tofield were out picketing on Monday.
Pictured here (L-R): Tammy Nelson, Angela Fuller, Nicole Brindza. KARI JANZEN PHOTO
Pull Out
Schedule of Events Winterfest Tofield 2024
Friday, November 29th
• 4-H TURKEYBINGO – 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
–Tofield Community Hall
• U13 Hockey Tournament – Friday - Sunday –Tofield Arena Saturday, November 30th
• BREAKFAST WITH SANTA –8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
–Tofield Legion
• STUFF THE BUS – 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. –IGA Parking lot
Mail disruption an opportunity to support local businesses
Canada Post Union on Strike
Continued from Front
Through their own internal discussions, and from experience with past strikes, it was expected that much local mail as well as newspapers would still be put in local boxes, as long as the mail was dropped off at the specific post office of delivery.
The federal government has appointed a mediator between the two sides, but it was reported by Global News on Monday that the two parties were still "far apart" on several issues.
"We're trying our best to get back to the bargaining table to negotiate contracts so we can continue to service you and expand your services in your rural and remote communities,” said Jan Simpson, national president of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers.
A Canada Post representative said the corporation plans to resume operations if the union pivots to rotating strikes.
As for the local newspaper, this means drop-off locations have been established while mail delivery is interrupted.
In addition to the stores that regularly sell the
Tofield Mercury, subscription papers can be picked up at the following locations:
The Tofield Mercury office; Tofield Library (open until 8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday); Beaver County office in Ryley; Village of Holden office in Holden; and Spilstead Community Hall.
For any week impacted, e-editions of our newspaper will be available free of charge for viewing on Patreon and Issuu. Those will be embedded at the Mercury website starting Wednesday.
“We remain hopeful that only the November 20 edition will be interrupted,” said Eric Anderson, Associate Publisher of the Mercury.
“However, we feel the plans in place will ensure most local readers can grab their newspaper easily at many different locations, and if they are unable, will be able to read it easily online for free.
“We expect the free online editions will attract even curious lapsed readers during the strike, and fully expect to actually have more readers than usual during the November 20 edition and beyond. Advertisers can rest assured we’re doing everything we can to ensure as many readers as possible during this incredibly inconvenient mail interruption.”
With parcel and mail deliveries in question as the Christmas season approaches, shopping inperson locally may provide an easy solution.
“Local stores, many of whom are appearing in this week’s Mercury, offer the same great products and services that we find online,” Anderson said.
“Instead of searching for conveniences just a click away, and not knowing if they’ll ever even show up, I encourage our readers to reacquaint themselves with all the amazing local shops and businesses in our region. Turn a negative into a major positive this holiday season.”
Santa Clause is Coming to Tofield at the Winterfest Weekend
Kelsey Witham Staff Reporter
The 11th annual Winterfest Weekend is on its way!
Tofield’s 4-H Beef and Multi Club will be hosting the family friendly Bingo on Friday, November 29, at the Tofield Community Hall. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., the event is cash only with admission being $10, raffle tickets and a concession will also be available.
This is a major fundraising event for the club, it raises funds to allow for 4-H members to attend events, purchase attire, and organize events.
Saturday, November 30, will be packed full of festive fun. The day starts off at the Tofield Legion, breakfast with Santa and the bake sale happening from 8 a.m.11 a.m. The annual
Western Makers Market will be taking place at the Tofield Commu-
nity Hall from 10 a.m. –3 p.m., with over 35 vendors to shop from.
The Festival of Trees is back and scheduled to take place at Beaverhill Nature Centre and Museum from 11 a.m.4 p.m. Organizations
wishing to enter a decorated tree can call FCSS to obtain a registration form. A $20 entry free applies. All proceeds will be donated to the Tofield/Ryley and area food bank. A parade and home/business decorating contest will also be taking place. Holiday crafts, ornament making, treats and hot chocolate will also be offered at the Festival of Trees.
Continued on Page 26
for the Christmas Hamper Program! Saturday, Nov. 30th
10 am –6 pm at Hare Foods-IGA
Matching component from IGA & Sobeys for hamper purchases on this day!!
Tofield Christmas hamper program and other events underway
Cassandra Lundbek Staff Reporter
Tofield Christmas hamper program provides a holiday meal for around 100 local families every year. With the Tofield/Ryley food bank reporting higher than normal usage, they are preparing to assist even more families this holiday season.
Requests for food hampers are made by contacting Tofield/Beaver County West Family and Community Support Services (FCSS).
Over the next month local community members and businesses will collaborate to ensure families receive what they need for the holidays.
Starting this week on November 18 and running until November 24 Tim Hortons is running it’s Smile Cookie Campaign with all proceeds supporting the program. On the 30th the Tofield IGA, a consistent supporter of the initiative, will host the Stuff a Bus event. From 10am to 6pm customers can purchase $10 and $15 hampers, which will go directly to the Christmas hamper program. There will also be a bin for people to drop off donations throughout the month of December. You can donate anytime this season and receive a charitable receipt, by visiting the Tofield/Ryley food bank.
At the post office a tree has been decorated with paper angels containing the age, gender and gift suggestions for children supported by the Christmas Hamper program. Those wishing to provide a more personalized item can select an angel, purchase a gift
and return it unwrapped with the angel attached by December 6.
On December 18 volunteers will help assemble the hampers at the Tofield Community Hall and on December 19, delivery drivers will be needed. All volunteers must pre register by contacting FCSS. Older children are welcome to assist with packing the hampers, but to protect the privacy of recipients, it is requested that they are not present during delivery day.
Greg Litwin has been assisting with the hamper program since 2007 and expressed immense gratitude for the communities support. With so much community support there are many ways for individuals to contribute. Any surplus is given to the Tofield/Ryley food bank to continue to support local families.
2024 COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS HAMPER PROGRAM
The Community Christmas Hamper program aims to assist families in need in the Tofield, Ryley and Beaver County (west) area.
1. Hamper Requests
To request a Christmas Hamper, visit the FCSS Office in Tofield (5407-50 St.) (upstairs) or Call: 780-662-7067. Presentation of photo ID, and proof of physical address (eg. utility bill) will be requested to confirm that you are within our service area.
Referrals are confidential. Hamper request deadline is Friday, December 6th.
2. Angel Tree
Angel trees are set at both Tofield and Ryley Post Office locations.
1. Pick an angel from the tree.A child’s age, and their interests will help you select a gift.
2. Purchase a gift(s) for that child - suggested spending limit of $60.
3.Attach the angel to the unwrapped gift, and return it to the collection box at the Angel Tree. Angel gifts returned to the tree by Friday, December 13th.
3. Stuff the Bus
Saturday, November 30th from 10 am – 6 pmat Tofield IGA. Support the program by purchasing $10 or $15 paper ornaments that represent a food hamper. IGA Supports the Christmas Hamper Program as well.
Unreserved Real Estate Sale for Garth & Darlene Fleming Sale Starts December 6th & Closes on December 9th, 2024 Holden, Alberta
Directions: From Hwy 14 Go 3 1/2 Miles South On Rg Rd 163, West 1/2 Miles to Corner of Twp Rd 490 & Rg Rd 164
Selling A Beautiful Half Section Of Mixed Farm Land Located Just South of Holden Parcel #1 - Consisting Of the NW-33-48-16-W4M - Being 160 Acres
M/L - Beautiful, Mostly Open Land Currently Having 63 Acres Cultivated, 97 Acres being Pasture Land & Few Trees with a Creek Running Through The North East Corner. Surface Lease Road & Lease Site That Currently Has A Yearly Revenue of $3600.00/Year. With Some Work There Is An Opportunity For Many Of the Pasture Acres To Become Cultivated.
Parcel # 2 - Consisting Of The SW-33-48-16-W4M - Being 160 Acres M/L - Beautiful, Mostly Open land, Currently Having 50 Acres Cultivated, 110 Acres Being Pasture Land & A Few Trees, Dug Out, Also A Former Yard Site. Quarter Is Fenced & Cross Fenced, With Some Work There Is An Opportunity For Many Of The Pasture Acres to Become Cultivated.
Please Contact Garth @ 780-868-4181 For
JOHN’S RANT OPINION
As the Trudeau Liberals continue to do whatever they can to stifle Alberta’s oil and gas industry, Premier Danielle Smith is fighting back for her province.
The Feds under the hyper-foolish eco terrorist Stephen Guilbeault, announced its draft oil and gas emissions cap.
Guilbeault announced draft regulations for capping greenhouse gas emissions from oil and gas sectors – which is to say Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan and Newfoundland.
The regulations would require a 35 per cent reduction in emissions from oil and gas below 2019 levels by 2030.
“It is not an emissions cap, it is a production cap,” Smith said in a press conference, where she threatened to launch a constitutional challenge to the proposed caps.
She boldly stated she “was pissed off” by Guilbeault’s draft regulations.
While the Feds proudly stated the draft
would cap pollution, drive innovation and create jobs, many analysts refuse to drink that kool aid.
But in reality, while it may well cap pollution and drive some innovation, according to several recent analyses it won’t create jobs in the oil and gas industry and will, in fact, kill many jobs.
The Conference Board of Canada think-tank estimates that the cap would reduce Canada’s GDP by up to $1 trillion between 2030 and 2040, kill up to 151,300 jobs across Canada by 2030, and slow national economic growth from 2023 to 2030 from 15.3 per cent to 14.3 per cent.
Another study by Deloitte estimates that, due to the federal cap, Alberta will see 3.6 per cent less investment, almost 70,000 fewer jobs, and a 4.5 per cent decrease in the province’s economic output (i.e. GDP) by 2040.
With the election in the U.S. of Donald Trump as the president elect, he has threatened to put huge tariffs on all imports to the U.S, including oil and gas.
To counter this Smith was invited to join the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security.
Alberta will join 14 States in the coalition whose aim is to highlight the shared interest of all members in ensuring affordable, reliable and cleaner energy for their residents.
The coalition was founded by Louisiana Governors Jeff Landry and New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu.
“I am honoured to join the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security and would like to extend my sincere thanks to Governors Landry and Sununu for the invitation,” said Smith
“Alberta plays a vital role in North American energy security, serving as the largest supplier of crude oil and natural gas to the United States. Our contribution is set to grow even further as we look to work with the Trump Administration and other US partners to increase our pipeline capacity to the United States.
“We are proud to collaborate with this coali-
Smith fights for Alberta as Liberals fight against it
tion of allied States in advancing energy security, reliability, and affordability for Americans and Canadians,” she added.
She has also stated she plans to be in Washington during the same time as the inauguration of Trump as the new president in January.
Meanwhile Guilbeault is in Azerbaijan moaning about climate change at COP29 and pledging more Canadian tax dollars to help those poor third world counties affected by rising sea levels and damaging storms caused by “climate change.”
The Environment Minister said Canada will spend $160 million to launch a new fund called GAIA to finance projects that aim to reduce emissions in lower-income countries.
In fact the Environment Minister has floated the silly idea of the new fund will include direct grants as well as long-term loans with the goal of getting $2 billion from private sources as well as the government.
Among the strategies discussed, Guilbeault suggested creating a carbon tax on shipping emissions.
“We are very supportive of the discussions that are happening at the International Marine Organization to put in place some kind of levy on international marine transportation,” he said last week.
However, news of another carbon levy was met with swift criticism from the Conservative party, which has been adamant that it would remove the existing domestic carbon taxes, if elected.
“Canadians discovered that Justin Trudeau’s radical Environment Minister, Steven Guilbeault, wants to create a new global carbon tax on international shipping. This tax money would then be sent abroad to other countries,” read a statement from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s office.
The statement then called for Guilbeault to testify before a House of Commons Committee on the newly proposed carbon tax “that will
make everything more expensive.”
And of course we know the corrupt Liberals really don’t care how expensive things get for everyday Canadians, as long as they can settle in their plush easy chairs at the end of the day and chant “It’s a Wonderful World.”
Canada has already pledged to contribute $5 billion to developing countries trying to fight climate change from 2021 to 2026.
However, G20 countries are now being asked to increase their funding, with estimates claiming that USD $2.4 trillion is needed per year by 2030 for “emerging markets and developing countries” transition to clean energy, according to a G20 climate finance report.
Yet Canada isn’t close to keeping its commitment to fund NATO and that could lead to issues with the Trump government in short order.
The Liberal priorities moving forward are totally messed up.
Time for an election.
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
Jackie Lovely - Province offsets new municipal policing costs
Rising costs affect every Albertan, whether it’s the cost of food, electricity, or even policing.
The new RCMP collective agreement will result in a 39 per cent increase in policing costs for rural municipalities.
Those rising costs would be eaten by the local governments themselves, resulting in higher taxes, cut services, and less money in the pocket of our community members. This is a concern, which is why Alberta’s government is temporarily freezing the amount rural municipalities are responsible for paying for front-line policing services.
Twenty-seven million dollars that would have been downloaded on municipalities and members of the community will now be covered by the province.
Municipal engagement
remains paramount to Alberta’s government.
The freeze will allow us time to conduct this review and to seek municipalities’ feedback on the funding model.
We look forward to providing more details on the engagement in the future.
Our goal is to make decisions that reflect fairness, fiscal responsibility, and the unique needs of smaller communities.
The Police Funding Regulation took effect in 2020.
Before these regulations municipalities with populations of 5,000 or less, municipal districts and counties (i.e., those served by the RCMP) weren’t charged for their police services.
The regulation expires in March 2025, and it is standard practice for regulations to include an expiry date.
The funding regulation was designed to be updated in five years to reflect current policing costs instead of 2018 costs.
Rural municipalities should know their provincial government will always stand up for them, making them safer and keeping them from being overwhelmed by increasing costs.
All the while ensuring that effective and safe policing is delivered. The cost freeze also addresses the reality that rural Albertans face high crime rates.
These communities continue to be disproportionately impacted by property crime and organized criminal activity.
United Conservatives will not abandon rural communities to rising crime or unsustainable costs.
By freezing policing costs, we are working to
ensure that all municipalities can retain the level of police protection they have budgeted for. Over the coming year, we will continue collaborating with municipalities to create a sustainable funding model that meets the unique needs of rural Albertans, while keeping safety and stability front and center.
On another note, Alberta’s government has tabled amendments to strengthen prompt payment for construction projects and improve governance in condominium communities.
If passed, the bill would make amendments to the Condominium Property Act to provide the framework for establishing the long-anticipated Condominium Dispute Resolution Tribunal.
The tribunal will make it easier and more affordable for condominium owners and corporations to resolve common disputes outside the court system.
The bill would also establish that chargebacks to owners for damage they have caused will be treated as contributions (condominium fees), which will better protect the overall financial health and well-being of the condominium community.
Other amendments include the provision of a simple form of voting for simple matters, such as approving a meeting agenda. Additionally, the bill will establish the basis for technical requirements for newly built condominiums to protect consumers against structural or other defects in the construction of condominiums.
Holden Rural Academy Grade 9 students visited the Alberta Legislature recently, and met with MLA Jackie Lovely.
Goalie Jacob Bigney makes 48 saves during weekend game
Kerry Anderson
Tofield’s Lane Dehid scored the only goal for his Strathcona U15 Tier 1 team in their 6-1 loss to SN601 on Saturday at Tofield Arena.
Kaylum Roberts got a
These are some of the results from Minor Hockey League games held recently. (Please note that scores and scoring is taken from the websites, and some game scores and scoring is dependent on proper league entries).
goal and an assist in his Strathcona U18 AA Warriors 6-1 win over Wolverines on Saturday at the Strathcona Olympiette. Ethan Turnbull got an assist. Jacob Bigney made 48 saves in the win, for a .980
winning percentage game.
Seth Sideroff has played 14 games with the second place Junior League Mountainview Colts. His team beat Sylvan Lake 4-1 on Saturday at Didsbury.
RCMP encourage prioritization of child seat safety
Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter
The Alberta RCMP have released a statement encouraging motorists to prioritize child seat safety.
Some key safety reminders for motorists are:
All child car seats and booster seats must be installed in the rear seat.
Ensure the car seat or booster seat has a Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) sticker on it, indicating it meets national safety regulations.
Purchasing used car seats is discouraged, as they may be damaged,
recalled, expired, or not meet current safety standards.
After installing the car seat, perform the “inch test” by trying to move the seat side-to-side and front-to-back at the base. The seat should not move more than an inch in any direction. If it does, the seat may not be installed tightly enough.
Recommendations for birth to two-year-olds or up to 22 pounds (10 kg) are, Infants are safest when placed in a rearfacing car seat from birth until they are at least two years of age or until they reach the maximum weight and
height limit specified by the car seat manufacturer.
Two-years-old to sixyears-old or 22-40 pounds (10-18 kg). Children who have outgrown their rear facing seat and weigh at least 22 pounds (10 kg) can ride facing forward in a secured child car seat, according to the release. Recommendations for six-year-olds and older or weighing more than 40 pounds (18 kg),
Booster seats are intended for children who have outgrown their forward-facing car seats and weigh at least 40 pounds (18 kg). A booster seat should elevate a child and allow
them to sit comfortably with their back against the seat and their knees bent naturally over the edge of the booster or vehicle seat.
“Always opt for a high-back booster seat to provide support for the child’s head and neck," The release said.
“As a driver, it’s your responsibility to ensure all passengers are properly secured,” says Sgt. Turnbull, Alberta RCMP Traffic.
“It’s important that all children are in the appropriate seat type for their size, and that it is correctly installed. This can make a huge difference in reducing the risk of injury during travel.”
Landon Van Engelen got a goal in his Red Lake Miners 4-3 win on Saturday over Ironwood in Superior International Junior Hockey League action from Ontario. Landon was chosen second star of the game. Emmytt Yurkowski scored two goals on Sunday in his Fort Saskatchewan U18 AAA Rangers 6-3 win over Storm at Dow Centennial Centre.
Our beloved father, Dennis Michael Fitzpatrick of Tofield, Alberta passed away on November 1, 2024 at the age of 91 years. He is survived by his daughters Cheryl (Bernie) von Tettenborn; Mona (Ron) Scholes; grandchildren Bernhard (Kalista), Dennis, Clayton (Paige), Robyn (Marc-Andre), and Alison (Anthony); great-grandchildren Bernsy, Avah, Myriam, Josianne, and Ary.
He is predeceased by his wife Margaret. Dennis was born and raised on a farm in Kleskin Hills in the Alberta Peace Country. He chose a career as an autobody technician, excelled, and moved into management in this field for many years. He returned to his farming roots in later years and helped out on the von Tettenborn farm. He thoroughly enjoyed being back on the farm and helping at harvest time. He was a man of faith who participated his entire life in the Catholic Church. He served in various capacities over the years to support this community.
While we lost our most beloved dad, many have lost a friend and a loved one. His family and many friends will miss him greatly. He was an honourable and caring man who always kept us laughing with his humour and wit. Dad is up in Heaven driving his beloved truck and keeping an eye on the Oilers.
We will miss you always. Thank you for being our dad.
A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to the Lung Association or to the charity of one's choice.
Weber Funeral Home
780-662-3959
www.weberfuneralhome.ca
Kelsey Witham Staff Reporter
The RAP (Registered Apprentice Program), Green Certificate, and Dual Credit Programs are being offered to Battle River School Division (BRSD) high school students to help improve the transition from school to the workplace and gain on-the-job training all while staying in school and earning an income.
Battle River School Division Offers Opportunities for High School Basket Raffle back again
Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter
The annual Christmas Bazaar is online this year and the basket raffle will be drawn on December 6.
Hosted by the Tofield Long Term Care Unit, this event is put together by all residents.
Pickling, canning, and baked goods are some items that can be purchased online.
A basket raffle is available to enter and win an abundance of prices as
RAP has 33 BRSD students enrolled this year, the students will be completing 1,000 hours of practical apprenticeship experience in a variety of trades, such as: Agriculture Equipment Technician, Auto Body Technician, Heavy Equipment Technician, Electrician. RAP is designed to support the Alberta economy while addressing the needs on the students and provid-
well as a new price this year of a community gift card tree.
To purchase raffle tickets email or call the long term care unit or you can purchase in person at the Tofield Community market on November 22.
"All proceeds from our fundraiser go directly towards enhancing the lives of our residents through activities, entertainment, transportation, and special events," said Nicole Kulba CTRS (Certified
ing them with future employment opportunities.
This program also helps with assisting in the shortage of skilled trades workers while minimizing the cost of training. The average hourly pay for a student working in the apprenticeship program is $31.11 an hour.
Fourteen BRSD students are enrolled in the Green Certificate pro-
Therapeutic Recreation Specialist).
"Last year’s Bazaar raised funds that allowed us to purchase outdoor courtyard tables, garden flowers, a new hearing support device to help during programming and musical enjoyment, a memorial board to honour those we have lost, and new bingo cards," Kulba said.
"The resident council has a say in what the funds are used for yearly.”
gram this year. This is an industry driven training program that teaches agricultural skills.
Students select a specialization and work towards mastering the skills within their training program. Some of the specializations that students can choose are Beekeeping, Greenhouse management, equine, cow calf beef, poultry, swine, and sheep.
Three students from
BRSD’s 2023-24 Green Certificate program received their Alberta Agriculture Technician Green Certificate this year. Two of those students chose to specialize in equine while one in cow calf beef.
The Dual Credit program is career-based high school programing, assisting students in making meaningful transitions to post-secondary education or to
the workplace. This allows the students to personalize their high school experience and span their knowledge into professions such as health care, trades, agriculture, and business administration. One of the BRSD students who completed their Equine Green Certificate last year has now registered for the Dual Credit Veterinary Assistant Certificate Program at Olds College.
Public skating at arena, lottery underway for the phase 2 addition
Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter
Public skating is offered at the Tofield Arena on Sundays from 1:30-2:45pm. Helmets are required while skating on the rink.
Parent and Tot skating hours are offered 10-11 a.m. on Wednesdays.
Shinny hockey for 10 years and under is of-
fered Tuesdays 3:45-5 p.m.
For 11 years and older Thursdays 3:45-5 p.m.
For Shinny hockey both helmets and gloves are required for all participants.
"Take a Year Off Lottery is a lottery to raise funds for Phase 2 Addition to the Tofield Arena.
“The addition will be out the east side of the
existing facility, and will consist of a new Zamboni room, Referee changing room and storage,” said Tofield Chief Administrative Officer Cindy Neufeld.
"The draw will be made on November 30, with the grand prize of $52,000 plus seven additional prizes.
“The lottery is selling out fast and the draw is near."
Are you tired of your
Do you want to work in a
If you possess leadership qualities, are full of energy, very well organized, a highly motivated individual, represent excellent communication skills, enthusiasm, and love helping customers and thrive on solving mechanical problems, WE NEED TO TALK!
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
WE’RE HIRING at The James Insurance Group
We are a progressive, dynamic business providing general insurance and other services at 4 locations in East Central Alberta.
We are accepting applications for a Full Time General Insurance Broker starting immediately. This position includes competitive salary & benefits.
The successful candidate will –Possess strong organizational & communication skills. rn quickly. the ability to work with various computer applications. ronment. the desire to deliver excellence in customer service every day.
Insurance experience is preferred, but not essential. Candidate must be eligible to be licensed by AB Insurance Council.
Would you like to join our team?
Please submit your resume toPO Box 100, Killam, AB T0B 2L0 marcy@tjig.ca or deliver to
Town of Tofield public works employees were up and down main street recently, affixing Christmas lights to the trees in preparation for the upcoming holiday season.
Recent huge vessel moves part of carbon capture project
John Mather Staff Reporter
Three huge vessels that are being moved along local roads from Dacro Industries in Tofield to Shell Scotford’s plant site in northern Strathcona County are [part of the Polaris carbon capture project.
The first vessel, a CO2 absorber column, was 234 long 25 feet wide and weighed an impressive 358 tonnes. It was moved Oct. 7.
The second vessel moved last Tuesday, Nov. 12. It was an amine stripper and was 145 feet long, 21 feet wide and weighed 173 tonnes.
The third vessel for the project will be moved Nov 25 and it will be a boiler amine absorber and quench.
The Atlas Carbon Storage Hub from Shell and ATCO EnPower intends to store CO2 emissions generated in the Alberta Industrial Heartland region. The first phase of Atlas will store CO2 emissions captured by Shell’s Polaris carbon capture project. CO2 emissions captured by Polaris will be sent to the Atlas Carbon Storage Hub via an approximately 22-kilometre pipeline to two storage wells located in Strath-
cona County. CO2 will be stored there approximately two kilometres underground in the Basal Cambrian Sands, the same formation used to successfully store CO2 from the Quest CCS facility currently operating at Shell Scotford.
On June 26, 2024, Shell announced the Final Investment Decision (FID) for Polaris, a carbon capture project at the Shell Energy and Chemicals Park, Scotford in Alberta, Canada. Polaris is designed to capture approximately 650,000 tonnes of CO2 annually from the Shell-owned Scotford refinery and chemicals complex.
Polaris will have the potential to reduce Scope 1 CO2 emissions at Shell’s Scotford refinery by capturing and storing up to 40 per cent and by up to 22 per cent at the chemicals complex.
In addition to the Polaris FID, Shell also announced the final investment decision to proceed with the Atlas Carbon Storage Hub in partnership with ATCO EnPower.
Shell is a 50/50 partner with ATCO EnPower in the Atlas Carbon Storage Hub. The first phase of Atlas will provide permanent underground storage for CO2 captured by the Polaris project.
Ryley Legion president pins poppy on mayor
$3,905.60
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;
The second oversized load gets transported from Tofield’s Dacro Industries to the Shell Scotford Complex on Nov. 12. This photo was taken by Crystal Moren as the load moved up Highway 834 north of Highway 14. It was the second oversized load moved to the site in the past month. A third vessel is scheduled to move on Nov. 25.
Ryley Legion president Gordon Pope attended the Village of Ryley's committee of the whole meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 5 to officially pin a poppy onto Mayor Stephanie Dennis. KARI JANZEN PHOTO
Tofield Library Chocolate Fundraiser
Cassandra Lundbek Staff Reporter
The Tofield Library is holding a Purdy’s chocolate fundraiser to help improve their facility and fund their programs.
This is the first year they have run this particular fundraiser and staff says it has been very successful.
Not knowing what to expect they set a modest
goal, expecting to sell approximately $1000 worth of chocolate and as of Monday November 18 they had already sold over $3200 with $850 going to the library.
Patrons can choose from a variety of options, starting around $10 for hot chocolate and ranging up to $175 for the Festive Delights Gift Basket. Orders can be placed through the Tofield Li-
brary or online at fundraising.purdys.com/joi n.aspx/1974865-119550
The fundraiser will remain open until November 24, with pickups scheduled between December 5-11.
All proceeds from the fundraiser will directly benefit the Tofield Library, funding new office chairs, shelves and support for the children’s summer programs.
For most businesses, the Christmas Season is so important that it can make or break the kind of year you have. That's why it's so important to
The Tofield Mercury is once again selling special 'Shop Local' advertising pages this year, running from November 20 to December 11
Priced to be affordable for any size of business, you get 4 weeks of exposure in the top-read paper in our area *PLUS* A FREE FIFTH WEEK December 18!! What do you have to lose? 780-662-4046 • adsmercury@gmail.com
A Message from the Tofield and District Chamber of Commerce:
The Tofield and District Chamber of Commerce extends holiday greetings to everyone in our area. Your local Chamber of Commerce is unique in that we have members from local, home-based and start up business as well as community and non-profit organizations. All groups are welcome to be part of the Chamber of Commerce. To find out more information please visit us at www.tofieldchamber.com
Shopping local means, we are nurturing locally owned businesses, which employ local workers, and use local resources. Local shopping leaves your money in the community and we have all seen how local businesses willingly give back to sports groups and not for profit organizations. We all want to see our local businesses thrive.
Sincere wishes for health and happiness.
Tofield and District Chamber of Commerce Box 967, Tofield AB, T0B 4J0 tofieldchamber@gmail.com
Madi Hillyer Library Assistant talking about the success of their Purdy's Chocolate fundraiser.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM)
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP
For Sale: Common Seed Oats, Pony Oats and Barley
September & October Open by appointment only
Held @ 7 p.m. on Monday, November 25th @ the Holden Complex COFFEE & DONUTS WILL BE PROVIDED
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
ryalta@digitalweb.net 5108 - 50th St. Ryley, AB., T0B 4A0
Wednesday, November , 2023, Volume 16, Issue 46
Wednesday, November 20, 2024, Volume 17, Issue 47
WednesdayFebruary162022Volume15Issue7
Municipal elections in fall 2025 require decisions now
Patricia Harcourt
Beaver County is positioning itself almost a year in advance to be prepared for the general municipal elections in 2025.
That includes appointing of returning officers, and possible bylaws requiring candidate criminal record checks and orientation ad training for newly elected officials.
Chief Administrative Officer Kayleena Spiess is recommending that Margaret Jones, general manager of legislative services, and Meagan Walsh, executive assistant for legislative services, take on the roles of returning officer and substitute returning officer respectively.
If nobody else is appointed the CAO
would automatically take over the role of returning officer.
But Spiess stated she preferred others be chosen.
“Administration recommends that staff members be appointed to both positions,” she stated, noting that “Margaret Jones has acted as the returning officer for previous general elections and is knowledgeable of the process.”
“Meagan Walsh has expressed an interest in learning more about legislative services,” said Spiess, adding that “hands-on experience with the municipal elections process is crucial to her professional development.”
Spiess also explained that “a third party returning officer and/or
substitute returning officer may be difficult to find,” due to the fact that the federal election is also slated to tale place on the same day as the municipal elections in Alberta.”
Once appointed, both Jones and Walsh would take an oath of office to begin the preparations for the municipal elections.
Councillors get a fouryear term in office which means the last time they were elected was in October 2021.
Local school boards have historically requested that th county manage their elections as well.
Spiess stated that, “the municipal election is a very important function and staff workloads will be adjusted to accommodate the requirements of
Budget preparation time at Beaver County
Patricia Harcourt
Beaver County Council has started to prepare for its upcoming budget sessions to pave the way for 2025’s work year.
Chief Administrative Officer Kayleena Spiess and General Manager of Corporate Services Ryan Arndt will provide council with an overview of next year’s budget.
Binders will be presented to the coun-
cillors on the day of council Wednesday, November 20.
“The overview and binders are provided for council’s information only,” stated administration’s report to council.
“Administration requests that council review the information and come prepared to ask questions at the council budget meetings on November 27-29.”
Council’s questions would be answered at these budget meetings or
following them.
Special council meetings on December 4-5 are scheduled so councillors can discuss or debate the 2025 budget. The interim 2025 budget is expected to be approved at the final meeting of council on December 18.
Council is expected to set mill rates for next year’s taxes to provide the finances for the budget following a period of discussion and debate.
these positions.”
Along those lines, the county will be looking at the hiring of an assistant for legislative services.
Also, the Governance and Priorities Committee met Movember 13 and discussed a proposal to ask that administration draft a bylaw that would require candidates in the 2025 municipal election to obtain a criminal record check.
The Local Authorities Election Act was recently amended to provide council with the option to pass a bylaw to require that a person who is seeking nomination as a candidate for the election produce a criminal record check along with their nomination form.
This bylaw would have to pass by the end of this year to be valid
for the election next year.
GPC was presented with four different types of criminal record checks from which to choose, including basic criminal background checks using names and dates of birth, fingerprints to identify a person’s identity, a police information check and vulnerable sector check.
Fees could be attached to these criminal checks and the check must be presented along with the nomination form for public viewing.
The GPC can forego this requirement in favour of a sworn statement by the candidate or by using the disqualification provisions in the Local Authorities Election Act.
GPC is also looking at a policy for Councillor Orientation and Training
to apply to newly elected councillors. A corporate governance review in 2021 recommended a policy regarding councillor orientation be developed.
The GPC followed up August 14 with a review of a draft Councillor Orientation and Training Policy.
The province has passed Bill 20 which changed some election procedures and rules.
“It is Municipal Affairs’ interpretation that the orientation is only applicable to newly elected councillors after a general election or a by-election,” stated Jones in her report to GPC. Administration recommended that the GPC review the proposed bylaw and approved it for council’s upcoming consideration.
Alberta government activates contingency mail delivery plan
Starting Tuesday, Nov. 19, the province says mail can be accepted from Albertans at designated Alberta government offices across the province to ensure it reaches the proper destination.
According to a government release, Albertans who receive mail from the provincial government will receive a notification by email or phone indicating where and when they can pick-up/drop-off their mail.
While there were no
locations announced between Ryley and Irma at press time, nearby pick-up/drop-off locations are listed as follows on the government website. These are subject to change and new locations may be added:
In Camrose, at the AFSC building on 52nd street.
In Tofield at the Provincial building (5024 - 51 Ave.).
In Vegreville at the Haverhill building (512149 St. E).
In Wainwright at the Provincial building (#4, 810 - 14 Ave.).
In Lamont at the AFSC building (5014 - 50 Ave.).
In Sherwood Park at the Centre Plaza (190 Chippewa Road).
In Fort Saskatchewan at the Correctional Centre (7802 - 101 St.).
Alberta’s government will never ask for personal information over the phone or for anyone to click on a link in an email.
Non-critical mail will be held by the originating department until Canada Post mail service resumes.
Council establishes guidelines for letters of support
Patricia Harcourt
Beaver County has established a letters of support policy spearheaded by the new economic development officer Bob MacMullen.
The policy will provide guidelines for the county to provide letters to help promote local initiatives, be they of a business, tourist or other type of venture.
“Council often receives requests to provide letters of support for various projects within the county,” says MacMullen.
“The letters of support policy establishes a clear framework and guidelines for issuing such letters, ensures
consistency and fairness in council’s approach to supporting local initiatives.”
The county has established an advisory committee for economic development and its promotion within its boundaries.
The new policy states that council may or will issue a letter of support for projects or initiatives that align with the county’s economic development and strategic vision within the Beaver Region.
This region encapsulates the towns of Tofield and Viking, the villages of Ryley and Holden, and hamlets under the county’s jurisdiction of Kinsella and Bruce.
To be eligible, a
party wanting such a letter must provide a statement indicating how the project or initiative would align with the county’s economic development or strategic goals.
There must also be proof provided of compliance for the applicable municipality’s zoning and land use bylaws.
The applicant also needs to provide a verifiable estimate of property assessment and tax valuation at each defined phase of development or at the project’s completion, depending on the particular circumstances.
The county would also need an outline of the benefits that residents within Beaver
Region would receive from the project or initiative being proposed.
Letters of support can be signed by the county’s Chief Administrative Officer, in this case Kayleena Spiess.
A decision on an application that doesn’t fit the guidelines or considered controversial in nature would go to county council for a decision on whether or not a letter would be issued.
The requests for letters of support will be reviewed by the economic development officer “to determine the nature of the project or initiative, alignment with policy guidelines and to assess the impacts on the Beaver
Region,” states the procedural guidelines in the policy.
The officer will also ask other county departments for feedback .
County council will be also informed “to enable the opportunity to identify potentially controversial situations,” states the policy.
Five days notification or less will be given to give this feedback to the economic development officer in time sensitive situations.
Council would be notified once any letters of support are issued to qualified candidates.
The motion to pass the policy as per the recommendation was made by Councillor Dale Pederson (Division 5).
“This is a good move to show support. There are guidelines with eligibility requirements so it’s not all open season.” he said.
The motion was passed without further comment as the policy had been discussed and honed at previous Governance and Priorities Committee meetings.
The officer will recommend if a letter should or should not be provided, including any decisions made by council on more controversial applications. Any applications that are rejected would be sent a letter outlining the reasons it was rejected.
Beaver Regional Water Capacity Operating Committee to help with water suppy issues
The county and other regional partners are forming the Beaver Regional Water Capacity Operating Committee.
This is one of several ventures the local municipalities are working on together.
The water capacity operating committee is composed of the chief administrative officers (CAOs) of all municipalities in the Beaver Region as well as the Interim CAO of the Highway 14 Regional Water Services Commission and the Regional Manager of the Beaver Emergency Services Commission (BESC).
This new committee has been discussing,
“the issue of long-term water supply needs and regional waterline operational issues,” explained Beaver County CAO Kayleena Spiess.
She continued: “All municipalities have expressed a need for an adequate water supply to enable residential growth and economic development in the region.
“The issue of capacity is a complicated one and the regional CAO group recognizes the benefits of working together.”
She said the committee, “will assess the water supply infrastructure, determine current and future needs, and prepare strategies, business
cases and grant applications to access funding for expansion.”
The CAOs would work together to provide mutual support for operational issues like water restrictions and line breaks as they arise.
However, this committee is strictly an operational one and makes no decisions or binds any council.
Acting on consensus only, the committee can make recommendations to the Beaver Regional Partnership (BRP), BESC or water commission.
County council along with all other councils in the region are being asked to approval the CAO’s signing of the Terms of Reference, which
Spiess said “would signify support and the spirit of cooperation for this initiative.”
At the December 20 meeting of Beaver County Council administration is asking that the council pass first reading of the bylaw called Beaver Regional Partnership (BRP).
On Oct. 10, BRP asked that each council in the partnership pass a bylaw to establish the inter-rmunicipal committee and its terms of reference.
Some of the proposed changes in this bylaw include making decision by resolution instead of consensus based decision making.
And BRP approval would no longer be
required if a minority of municipalities wish to proceed with a project, and do so outside the BRP scope.
Also, “municipal representatives may not be removed or excluded from participation in meetings, and municipal representatives may attend meetings virtually.
This proposed bylaw also states that BRP meetings wpuld be held in closed session.
BRP reps can share what is discussed in these meetings with their municipal councils but it must be done in closed session as well.
Other water related decisions occurred at the October 16 meeting of regular council when a motion by
Councillor Lionel Williams (Division 2) was passed to support the Town of Tofield in its submission of an Alberta Community Partnership grant application. The project is to develop a storm water management plan with the town being the managing partner and no financial obligation on the part of the county.
A motion by Dale Pederson (Division 5) was also passed for county council to support a grant application to the ACP for a feasibility study on building a fresh water holding pond in Viking and re-locatng the water inlet line at the Viking water tower.
Patricia Harcourt
Tofield School collects 163 pounds of food for Food Bank
On October 31st, Tofield School collected food for the local food bank while holding a haunted house. Though students did not need to bring items, they collected 163.6 lbs of food which was brought to the bank earlier in November by Ms. M. Korpan. Kate Priestley photo.
Protecting Your Bones for a Healthier Future
Kelsey Witham Staff Reporter
November is Osteoporosis month in Canada.
Osteoporosis is a disease that affects over 2.3 million Canadians, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will be diagnosed in their lifetime.
It causes bones to become brittle and weak, creating a higher chance for a break or fracture to occur.
The disease can go undetected for years, it cannot be cured but can be treated effectively.
“Human bones are constantly being broken down and rebuilding themselves, as we age, we start to lose more bone than we make, in Osteoporosis bone loss occurs more rapidly than normal,” an online source stated.
The disease can be caused by several factors, some of the main factors are age, hormones, diet, use of certain long-term medications.
Limiting caffeine, alcohol, sodium and tobacco use are steps you can take to help prevent against Osteoporosis.
Adults who smoke are 30-40 percent more likely to break a bone.
Consuming a healthy eating pattern and assuring you are getting
enough calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese and yogurt each day.
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in our body, and it plays a major role in bone density.
Eating foods high in Vitamin D like eggs and salmon can also have significant effects on your bone health.
Finding safe and
enjoyable exercises can help lessen pain, increase strength and decrease the risk of broken bones.
Some appropriate exercises may include flexibility training such as yoga and stretching, weight-bearing impact and muscle strengthening exercises, walking, swimming, and aerobics.
Friday, November 29 7-9pm
Tofield School Grade 5 class go on annual trip to Royal Alberta Museum
On Thursday, November 7, the Grade 5 Tofield School students went on their annual trip to visit the Royal Alberta Museum to learn about Canadian History on the prairies, as well as visit the bug room and gem room.
As the student’s Social Studies curriculum has a large Canadian History component, the trip to the Museum was perfect as they were able to see artifacts in person, and learn information about them.
On behalf of the Good as New Shop, we want to express our deep appreciation for everyone who makes the store happen. We are so grateful for our volunteers - who sort, sell, fix, clean, recycle, mow, shovel, load and haul, and so much more. And we couldn't serve our community without all the generous donors and of course our customers! Thank you, everyone.
47c
The family of Craig Allan would like to thank family, friends and community members for their caring and support following Craig's death. The flowers, food, cards, visits, phone calls, thoughts and prayers were greatly appreciated. Thank you also for the donations in Craig's memory to the Tofield Library, Dolly Parton Imagination Program, and to the Food Bank. Special thanks to Weber Funeral Home and to Kevin and Lynn Langager. We commend the medical staff in Tofield, Camrose, Misericordia Hospital and the Intensive Care Unit at the University Hospital for their expertise, treatment, kindness and caring. We are grateful to all of you.
Jim and Yvonne Allan and Family TM47P
CARD OF THANKS
We would like to sincerely thank everyone for attending our 50th Anniversary. A special thanks for all the lowers and squares brought, making it a very memorable afternoon.
COMING EVENTS
The Lougheed Agricultural Society invites you to supper at 6 pm on December 2 at the Fieldhouse in appreciation for volunteering at our events, may your contribution be large or small it is greatly valued. Without volunteers the board would be unable to hold events. Please let us know if you can attend call 780-385-0752. Following at 7 pm we will be holding our Annual General Meeting, please stay if you wish to see our plans for 2025 and provide some insight to what you may like to see happen.
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas A Christmas Pagent & Concert at the Sedgewick SDA Church December 7 at 6 p.m. Luncheon to Follow Everyone Welcome!
SUDOKU
COMING EVENTS
Killam/Forestburg Baptist Church Christmas Banquet Sunday, December 8 at the Killam Community Hall Doors open at 5 p.m. Supper at 5:30 p.m Concert at 6:30 p.m. with Daddy-Daughter roots duo Ben and Jessica Crane For tickets please call 780-385-3607 Adults $25, ages 12-17 years $20, under 12 years FREE
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.
Order of the Eastern Star Forestburg Chapter is hosting a Soup/Chilli Luncheon Monday, November 25 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Masonic Hall Basement in Forestburg. $10/Lunch
VIKING
HEALTH CENTRE AUXILIARY CHRISTMAS MARKET Thursday, December 5 11 am to 5 pm Viking Community Hall Lunch available for purchase Great Christmas ideas, Crafts, Baking, Gifts, Décor & more To reserve table, call Kim 780-385-0902
Viking United Church Candlelight Service December 1, 7:00 pm
Donation to Christmas Hamper Program (toys, food, money) Coffee & Dessert following service Everyone Welcome
Viking Grad Class of 2025 is selling Christmas Greenery Red or White 6.5" Poinsettia $13 24" Wreath $38
Outdoor Arrangement $50
Contact your local graduate for more information OR contact Donna at 780-385-4809 or Erin Hollar at 780-336-6377 Pick-up is scheduled for December 5 & 6th at the Viking Carena or discuss possible delivery with your seller Hurry! Selling until November 18!
FOR RENT
55+ adult bungalow in Belvedere Gardens with a single attached garage. Two bedrooms, in-floor heating, vaulted ceilings, open concept. Available December 1st, 2024. $1400/ month includes utilities, except power. 4527 55 Ave, Tofield, AB. Contact Dan 780970-7908
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
HARDISTY: 2 BR furnished house for rent available now. $1200 plus electricity. Call or text 780-717-6783
SEED FOR SALE
ALBERTA FEED 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. 1-888483-8789
Does your club have an event planned? Advertise in the Classifieds
Jim & Fay Bronson
CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS
FOR SALE
Christmas is Coming! Anybody in need of Christmas Lights, Brian has some for sale. They are mixed colours, some are flashing/blinkers. Will sell by length which would be $10 each. There are two strands that need bulb replacements. There is one that has a package with it. If interested, please call Brian at 780-678-0053.
Affordable, 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
If anybody is looking for Pepper Seeds in different varieties (mostly sweet), Brian has some. As well, if you are looking for Flower Pots, Hanging Baskets, or Window Boxes, Brian has many different sizes available. All Washed and Disinfected. Call 780678-0053 47/48c
FOR SALE
Single electric bed (head and feet adjustable). Like New. For more information call 780-385-2362
SERVICES
Roy's Handyman Services. Flooring, trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work. Call 780-232-3097
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
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. 47p
SERVICES
Medical Taxi Service
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
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. SERVICES
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
WANTED
CASH FOR COIN COLLECTIONS & COIN ACCUMULATION'S! Also buying all Gold, Silver, Old Jewelry, Nuggets, Sterling, Bullion, Ingots, Royal Canadian Mint Coins, Rare Coins +, Todd 780-504-7995.
Uttered in an impassioned
Outfits
“Westworld” actor Harris
Stewed game casserole
Indignities inflicted on others
Blood type
Says beneath one’s breath
Taxis
27. Transmits genetic information from DNA to the cytoplasm
28. NFL great Randy
29. Where college students
live
30. Brief Yankees sensation Kevin
31. Condiment
CLUES DOWN
1. Open-roofed entrance
2. Japanese religion
3. Dancer’s garments
4. Distributes 5. Yemeni port
6. Spanish doctors
7. It cools your house
8. Engine variant
9. Makes more manageable 10. Days (Spanish)
13. Milliliter
14. Spread out from 15. With two replaceable hydrogen atoms
20. Respectful title for a man
21. Equally 22. Scarlett’s home 23. Big Blue 27. Subway dwellers 29. One-tenth of a liter 30. Central European river
Distress signal
Expression of sympathy
33. -frutti
34. Polish city
38. Astronomy unit of distance
39. Romanian village
40. Bears first overall pick Williams
43. Irritated
44. Clothing for sale has them
45. One-time world power
49. When you anticipate arriving
50. Farm building
51. Organize thoughtfully
53. Detective
54. One who reduces
56. Nursemaids
58. Partner to “Pa”
59. World’s longest river
60. Commemorates
63. Compound
64. The Lannisters and Starks fought for one
65. Email function
33. Bar bill
34. Football equipment
35. Dance music
36. Russian river
37. Mary __, cosmetics
Defeats (abbr.)
Form of humor
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Go over again
‘Spread the Love’ trees
Leslie Cholowsky Staff Reporter
If you walk in to your nearest Wild Rose Co-op location, you’ll likely run into a Christmas tree decorated with some very special ornaments.
For the last few years, Wild Rose Co-op has partnered with local seniors for a project they call “Spread a Little Love.”
Each ornament represents a different senior, whether they are male or female, and also has a gift idea.
For those who want to participate, they can just remove the tag, purchase a gift that matches the information on the tag, and then return it to the same location.
There is a limit of $20 for each gift, and those participating are asked to place the gift in a gift bag rather than a wrapped present so it may be inspected.
The tag actually turns into a sticker that can be affixed to the bag.
Participating locations include Wild Rose Co-op Food Stores, Gas Bars, Home Centre, Killam
Bulk Fuel, and Tofield Agro.
Tags and gifts must be returned by Wednesday, Dec. 4 to be delivered to the seniors.
Wild Rose Co-op
launched the Spread a Little Love campaign originally in 2019, skipped 2020 due to Covid, then resumed in 2021 and forward.
you can fi nally have all of the soothing benefits of a relaxing warm bath, or enjoy a convenient refreshing shower while seated or standing with Safe Step Walk-In Tub’s FREE Shower Package!
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Now you can have the best of both worlds–there isn’t a better, more aff ordable walk-in tub!
LISA KUFLAY PHOTO
The world’s first governments arose to keep people safe —
so let’s do more of that, rural MLA tells
George Lee Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Countryside crime statistics point to a need for governments to seek guidance from deep within their collective core, the Alberta legislature heard recently from the UCP side of the chamber.
Grant Hunter, the member for TaberWarner in southeastern Alberta, said protecting people and their property is a foundational role of governments everywhere.
“When civilizations first made their collective decisions to forgo a portion of their individualistic tendencies and band together, it was with the intent to add a measure of protection to their families and
societies as a whole,” Hunter said.
“Today, governments across the globe have expanded their scope and practice. Working together for a common goal has on the whole benefited humanity and has enriched a civilized society,” he told the legislature Oct. 31.
“But we should never forget the primary reason why we first formed governments, and that was and still is to protect its people.”
Crime is proportionally higher in rural Canada than it is in urban Canada, statistics show.
In 2021, the most recent year that Statistics Canada crime data is available, police with jurisdictions that were mostly rural served 15 per cent of provincial
Parcel #1 - Consisting of the SE 36-53-18 W4M
Being 160 Acres M/L
Pasture Land Fence with Page Wire, Single Strand Barb Wire & A Dug Out.
Located North of Hwy #16 on Rge Rd 180 for 5 Kms. West Side of the Road
populations. Yet they reported 24 per cent of violent crimes, 18 per cent of property crimes, 30 per cent of Criminal Code traffic offences and 23 per cent of other Criminal Code violations.
The rural-urban gap is also pronounced using another StatsCan measure, the Crime Severity Index. The CSI aims to make overall, violent and non-violent crime more widely comparable by meshing seriousness and volume.
The higher the number, the more of a problem crime is, using a baseline of 100 from 2006 data. The overall CSI number in rural areas was 91.9 in 2021, compared with 69.3 in urban areas.
The violent crime CSI
shows an even bigger disparity, widening significantly between 2011 and 2021. The index number for violent crime was 124.1 in rural areas and 85.2 in urban areas in 2021. In 2011, there was virtually no gap — 84.8 rural, 84.9 urban.
So, what’s going on?
Hunter has some theories. He singled out federal bail legislation and liberalized drug policies as empowering factors for criminals in Alberta. But he mentioned his own government’s focus on recovery for drug addicts as a sound health care approach that could help.
“It is not compassionate nor humane to facilitate or prolong another’s drug addiction,” he said.
colleagues
Hunter continued: “I have lived in rural Alberta for most of my life, Mr. Speaker. It is a peaceful and serene life. It’s a great place to raise a family, but the criminal element has learned how to operate in rural Alberta, and that is of great concern to me.”
His comments come as crime and policing continue to be hot topics in Alberta, with much of the controversy tied to an expansion of the role of the Alberta Sheriffs.
Earlier this year the legislature passed the Public Safety Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, enabling the government to create an independent agency. The agency would place the police-like functions of the Alberta Sheriffs under the same kind of legislative framework
and civilian oversight that exists for other police services, the province’s website says.
The opposition NDP says that the province is working to undermine and replace the RCMP, which faces challenges across the country filling positions in the communities it services.
But the UCP says that the legislation is about augmenting and supporting the RCMP, not replacing it.
Hunter, meanwhile, said much remains to be done on the crime-fighting front.
“If we fail to help our people feel safe, to live and work and enjoy their property, then our primary reason for forming governments has been lost. I believe we can and must do better for our people.”
Real Estate Auction for Ducks Unlimited
Parcel #2 - Consisting of the NW 7-55-17 W4M
Being 148.95 Acres M/L
Currently Seeded to Alfalfa, New 4 Strand Barb Wire Fence Around the Perimeter of the Property.
Beautiful Mostly Open Quarter that does have a Subdivision out the NW Corner, a Good Shelter Belt, Ample Wildlife, Does Have a Few Sloughs That Would Work as a Water Sources, on the SE Corner of TWP Rd 552 & Rge Rd 180
Located 8.7 Kms North of Hwy #15, 20 Kms North of Hwy #16, East Side of the Road.
Parcel #3 - Consisting of the SW 25-55-18 W4M Being 160 Acres M/L
Seeded to Alfalfa/Grass, Can be Hay/Pasture Land, Old Yard Site, One Flat Bottom Grainary, New 4 Strand Barb Wire.
Located On the Corner of Rge Rd 181 & Hwy 29 with 1/2 a Mile of Hwy. Frontage
Parcel #4 - Consisting of the SE 35-55-18 W4M Being 160 Acres M/L
A Very Nice Open Quarter with Dugouts, Brand New 4 Strand Barb Wire Fence, Seeded to Alfalfa/Grass, Excellent Hay or Pasture Land.
Located 1.7 Kms North of Hyw #29 on Rge Rd 181
iGaming and ads led to more problem gambling in Ontario. Should Alberta expect the same?
Brett McKay Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
There is a clear association between the expansion of online gambling, gambling advertising, and the number of people seeking help for problem gambling in Ontario, according to a new study.
As Alberta looks to the Ontario model to create its own legal iGaming markets, should the province expect the same outcome?
For a study now published in the Journal of Gambling Studies, researchers compared the number of calls received by Ontario’s problem gambling helpline in the months before and after the province expanded its online gaming market in April 2022.
Dr. Nigel Turner, a scientist with the Institute for Mental Health Policy Research at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, said that during the pandemic, calls to the helpline initially dropped off when casinos were closed. As more people moved their gaming online, and public health measures were relaxed, the number of people looking for help with gambling addiction rebounded –and then kept rising.
“The primary increase was in people calling
Winterfest Weekend
Continued from Page 4
The evening of the 30th starts off with the Winterfest parade, scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m., the parade will make its way down Mainstreet. Immediately following, will be the tree lighting
related to online gambling,” Turner said.
In the ten months before Ontario legalized online gambling, an average of 84 people per month called the problem gambling hotline, compared to 184 in the ten months after legalization.
Along with the rising volume, Turner said there has also been a clear demographic shift in who is reaching out for help.
“There was a shift towards younger players, younger people are more comfortable gambling online, and more males gambling,” he said. Men are more likely to play table games and bet on sports than women.
Prior to the pandemic, online gambling and sports betting were a fairly small niche, Turner said. Though grey markets existed, “a surprisingly small percentage of people went to bookies.” After legalization, half of the people who called the helpline complained about problems with online gambling.
The amount of people who gamble that develop a problem is small, “but they also do make up disproportionately high percentage of the revenue,” he said.
Turner said there is no jurisdiction that has done a particularly good job of developing legal
happening outside the Town Office/ Library.
The Family dance will be at the Tofield Community Hall from 6 - 8 p.m. where hotdogs, cake, and hot chocolate with be available. Ending the evening off with a fireworks display, the fireworks are scheduled for 8:30 p.m. happening at the Tofield Sports
iGaming markets, but there are lessons that can be learned from other regions to minimize negative social impacts.
At the same time Ontario was expanding its gaming market, Britain, where online gambling has existed for years, started tightening regulations.
“They have actually put more regulations on iGaming to try to keep it safer. They've banned celebrities (from gambling ads), for example, they've cut back on when the ads for the gaming can be shown, to reduce the impact and reduce the amount of exposure to youth to these gaming ads, and they've banned credit cards from gaming,” Turner said.
Currently, the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) operated website Play Alberta offers the only legal options for online gambling in the province. In May, Alberta's government introduced legislation that allows the province to regulate iGaming.
At the Canadian Gaming Summit in June, Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Minister Dale Nally said the government is following the Ontario model for an “open and free” market, but gave no indication of when Albertans could expect the open online market to be introduced.
Grounds.
Tofield’s Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, Jeff Edwards wanted to acknowledge the hard work that has gone in to organizing this event.
“I want to thank Mayor Dueck, and the organizing committee for their hard work, dedication and desire to give back to the community,” Edwards said.
TOWN OF LAMONT
• 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
• P E N D I N G 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
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: $690,000
Lauren Hill Steven Hill
Norman Hill
Country Quilters donating quilts for charity
Cassandra Lundbek Staff Reporter
The ladies of The Country Quilters have completed another year of creating beautiful quilts for charitable causes. On Friday, November 15 the club met at the Bardo Lutheran Church, to package the 28 quilts they have created throughout the year, which will be donated to Ronald McDonald House and the Zebra Child and Youth Advocacy Centre.
This popular club has a full membership and community support. As a thank you to the church for allowing them to use space in the building for their regular meetups, they presented Simon, a representative of the church, with a beautiful quilt. This quilt will be sent to Guatemala, where various teams from Bardo have served since 2007.
Quilters shown L-R: Nicole, Cindy, Carol, Natalie, Emily, Liz, Paulette, Yvonne A., Chantal, Judy, Yvonne T., and Deb display several of the quilts that will be going to Ronald McDonald House and the Zebra Child and Youth Advocacy Centre.
CASSANDRA LUNDBEK PHOTO
L-R: Cyndi, Nicole, Simon, Yvonne P., Paulette, Emily, Yvonne A., Natalie (President), Judy. Kneeling in front: Chantal. Simon received the donated quilt on behalf of Bardo Lutheran Church.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Nicole works on her next project now that the charity quilts are packed.
