April 16 Tofield Mercury

Many enjoy Ukrainian dinner at Tofield Legion

Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

Nearly 100 tickets were sold for the Ukrainian Night held at the Tofield Legion on Saturday, April 12, where a hearty homemade meal was had, Alberta’s newest Ukrainian band, Neech, was featured, and Tofield’s own Ukrainian baba shared some wild stories.

Emcee Kevin Smook said that the event came to fruition when someone suggested a Ukrainian-themed evening, and Gloria Mitchell said she had the necessary perogy-making skills required.

“This was an idea that kind of came together last fall. We were sitting around on a Friday, and it was suggested maybe we should try a Ukrainian night. And so here we are. Thank you everybody for coming out to this. It's a great turnout,” Smook said.

Dishes included perogies, cabbage rolls (holuptsi), crepes, (nalysnyky), buns with dill sauce (perishky), among other favourites. There were also numerous Ukrainian desserts to be had. Following the dinner, Mama Marissa entertained those in attendance with stories that were prefaced as

mostly true.

“She was raised in a family of many, has raised four children, and she's raised one husband too,” Smook said for her introduction.

“This has given her the opportunity to gather many stories over the years and time to embellish them as well. She also offers the wisdom and advice of the aged, sometimes on topics that even you have forgotten about. Mama Marissa offers unwarranted advice and a few almost-true stories,” he said.

The character, played by Carol Lynn Babiuk, seeks to make people laugh. Babiuk says she always knows something about somebody.

“I started out doing some stage performances for Women's Day, and since that time I’ve been involved with the Babas and Borshch festival in Lamont County. I also entertain at seniors homes and facilities,” she said.

Lastly the band Neech, which is Ukrainian for Night, started with a few waltzes and encouraged people to find a partner to dance with. The band is described as a new, up and coming Ukrainian Polka Band dedicated to taking the Ukrainian community by storm.

Nearly 100 tickets were sold for the Ukrainian Night held at the Tofield Legion on Saturday, April 12, where a hearty homemade meal was had, Alberta’s newest Ukrainian band, Neech, was featured, and Tofield’s own Ukrainian baba, Mama Marissa, shared some wild stories. KARI JANZEN PHOTOS

Tofield curling rink installed with free Wi-Fi

Cassandra Lundbek Staff Reporter

The Tofield curling rink is the seventh location in Tofield to receive a free MCSnet Wi-Fi hotspot from the Alberta-based internet service provider, as of Thursday, April 3. The initiative is part of the company’s broader goal to support rural high-speed internet availability by equipping community spaces with reliable access.

“Our free public Wi-Fi Hotspots give high-speed internet access to people who visit community spaces such as arenas, community halls, seniors’ centres, and ag corrals,” said Rhonda Lafrance, Chief Marketing Officer at MCSnet.

“It also benefits the local non-profits by giving them free or dis-

counted internet,” she said.

MCSnet’s Community Connections program has expanded significantly in recent years, partnering with nearly 170 nonprofit organizations across the company’s service area. These partnerships provide essential service to facilities that serve as gathering points in rural communities.

The program also benefits MCSnet and all their clients, strengthening their GigAir network—a wireless service launched four years ago that delivers fibre-like speeds by creating a mesh system throughout communities.

“When we started our GigAir service just over four years ago, we were looking for reliable sites to install our internet,” Lafrance explained.

“The more sites with GigAir in a community, the stronger the network. It is a win-win for the non-profit and MCSnet.”

In addition to providing free and discounted internet, MCSnet donates one per cent of its net profits back to local nonprofits in the form of sponsorships and community support.

“As a family-owned and operated internet service provider rooted in rural Alberta, we invest in our local communities because we live and work in them,” Lafrance said.

This year also marks a milestone for the company, marking its 30th anniversary. To celebrate, MCSnet has launched a contest offering customers the chance to win a free year of internet, along with other anniver-

sary activities designed to thank the communities they serve.

CASSANDRA LUNDBEK PHOTO

The Tofield curling rink was installed with free Wi-Fi on Thursday, April 3. Pictured, MCSnet Infrastructure Technician Jorge Araniego prepared to run a speed test on the newly installed Wi-Fi.

Two new scholarships available for Tofield area students

Kelsey Witham Staff Reporter

The Tofield and Area Health Services Foundation (TAHF) and the Community Attraction and Retention Committee (CARC) have collaborated to offer a new scholarship program that has recently been launched and will accepting applications until May 31.

The scholarship intends to support students pursuing careers in health care and medical fields, with the goal of strengthening health services in rural communities. Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded annually to successful applicants.

The scholarship is open to high school students entering a healthcare-related study, adults returning to edu-

cation or changing careers, and current students in qualifying health care or medical programs.

Applicants must reside in Beaver County West, Holden, Ryley, or Tofield and provide proof of acceptance into an eligible program. Both online and in-person programs will be considered, ranging

from certificates and diplomas to full degrees. Successful applicants will be notified on or before June 30 each year.

Along with the application form, students must submit a 500–700 word essay that details their career plan and the type of work they will be able to find once their graduate from their area

of study, their commitment to working in a rural setting, and any volunteer or work experience they have which applies to or may have led them to pursue education in health care or the medical field.

We are closed: Friday, April 18th. We are open: Monday, April 21st.

CouncilCorner

The Town of Tofield contracts Peace Officer services through the Town of Vegreville. The current contract sees service provision at 16 hours per week. Through the Solicitor General, the Officer can enforce traffic act measures, and finable offences such as speeding tickets, seatbelt tickets, distracted driving (cell phone use) and other traffic violations such as lack of insurance and registration. The Officer also provides service to the community to deal with pieces such as loose and stray animals, noise complaints and property issues such as grass maintenance, snow maintenance and general unkept properties.

All the pieces previously mentioned are monitored and enforced through the Peace Officer to ensure Tofield is a safe, attractive and well-kept community for each of our residents. The educational approach is often the first step taken, as opposed to direct ticket enforcement. The feel is that providing feedback and awareness can often help to mitigate the situation. However, and unfortunately, there are in-

stances where this approach does not work, or can not work, such as extreme traffic violations, or where individuals have been spoken to on multiple occasions without change.

One area that has come of great concern is the passing of school buses when the “Stop Arm” is out and lights are flashing. Not only is this illegal, but it is also extremely dangerous. The fine for this offence is currently $567.00. The “Stop Arm” is activated to indicate that children are de-boarding, and potentially crossing the road in front of the bus. By a vehicle not stopping you are putting the children at extreme risk for injury or death. Because of this recurrence, there has been messaging provided through our social media page, on behalf of the Peace Officer and the RCMP. Bluntly, there is no excuse for this behaviour.

Also of concern is the continual recurrence of what is termed as a “J” turn. This means the crossing of centre in the wrong direction, either in a forward or reverse motion. This also is a

finable offence, and of a larger concern runs a high risk for either vehicle on vehicle collision, or the opportunity to strike a pedestrian. This offence is seen regularly not only in front of the Town Administration Office, but also regularly in the downtown core. The perception seems to be that this is normal, appropriate and acceptable, which is incorrect. The fine for this offence is currently$243.00.

Our contract for Peace Officer Services has been extremely successful, and a relationship we look to further as time continues. The Officer not only concentrates on enforcement matters but has also been extremely present in both of our schools, taking part in reading programs and taking time to communicate with our residents and provide positive feedback. We wish to thank our officer of current, and recognize those of years past, who have paved the way for success in Tofield.

Respectfully submitted, Mayor and Council

New local animal shelter very busy in this area

Main goal this year is to achieve non-profit status

Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

Ivan Won, owner of MapleLatte Animal Shelter in Beaver County, was one of the spotlights at the Wednesday, April 2 Tofield and District Chamber of Commerce meeting, and shared what his business looks like.

“I came to Beaver County a year ago from Leduc where I had lived for three years. Before that I was in Edmonton and I'm actually originally from B.C.

“The reason I moved here is because I needed a bigger yard. When I was in Leduc, I was in a duplex, which was really small, and I got complaints from my neighbour all the time. Now I have 10 acres, and my

dogs are really happy,” Won said.

Won said he moved to Beaver County looking to start a pet boarding business, but said he and his wife decided to operate as a shelter out of their love for animals.

“While I was in Leduc, I was part of a rescue crew called Through Your Pets Eyes. It's a really small group, but they're based in Edmonton, so it's far from here, but I've been fostering.

“I started MapleLatte home boarding and care and because I was part of the rescue, and because my wife and I love animals, we decided, you know what, let’s put our phone number on Google, and hear some people who need help,” he said.

Won said it was only

five months before he had to change his phone number because of the overwhelming amount of calls he was receiving daily.

“We opened our shelter in August, and I'm not even kidding, I got 10 calls per day. I had to put down my number in December because I just couldn’t handle that much,” he said.

One story Won shared was one where a farmer near Ryley called him because eight puppies had been abandoned on his property.

“In November I got a call from a farmer in Ryley who said that a car drove in, dropped off eight puppies and left, and the farmer said he needed help. So, I took all eight puppies, and now they have all been

adopted into really good homes,” Won said.

Another story Won shared was returning a lost cat to its blind owner.

“I got a call from a guy in Sherwood Park who said, there is a cat at this camping area that just showed up from nowhere. I have a microchip reader in my car, so I checked it, I called the owner, and he was missing the cat for two months.

“I actually brought the cat to him, and his friend came over to verify that it was the right cat, because Continued on Page 12

Ivan Won, owner of MapleLatte Animal Shelter in Beaver County, was one of the spotlights at the Wednesday, April 2 Tofield Chamber meeting, and shared what his business looks like.

The

Volunteers needed for upcoming Snow Goose Festival

Kelsey Witham Staff Reporter

The Snow Goose Festival is set to return on the weekend of April 26 and 27, celebrating the spring migration through the Beaverhill Lake area.

Organizers are actively in search of passionate individuals who have birding knowledge or are familiar with the birding

areas around Tofield and Beaverhill Lake and would be able to volunteer their time to the event.

Available volunteer positions include two and three-hour bus

The return of the snow geese has begun and the festival celebrating their arrival is just around the corner.

BATTLE RIVER SCHOOL DIVISION

SALE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY

Subject to Ministerial approval, where required, the following school properties are being offered for sale: Description

Beaver County Undeveloped Land

Overleigh School DistrictNW 11-46-12-W4 2.0 acres

tour guides and threehour field hike tour guides. Volunteers will depart on their tours from the Snow Goose Festival headquarters, the Tofield curling rink this year.

The opportunity to be a tour guide assistant is also available for individuals who have a passion for wildlife but do not have a vast knowledge of birds.

“We are thankful for those who dedicate

themselves during the festival and we provide our volunteers with a complimentary ticket to the Snow Goose banquet on Saturday evening,”

Beaverhill Head Biologist Jana Teefy stated.

A more in-depth description of the volunteer positions can be found on their website snowgoosefestival.ca or if interested individuals have questions, they can email

biologist@beaverhill bird.com.

The 2025 Snow Goose trade show will also be set up in the curling rink, free of charge and open to the public. The curling rink will be open both days from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., filled with booths occupied by festival partners, vendors, and offer children’s activities and informative speaker sessions.

FARMLAND FOR SALE BY TENDER

Tenders for the purchase of land in Beaver County as described below are invited. Land will be sold subject to all existing reservations and exceptions stated on Certificates of Title.

LINC: 0023 562 631

MERIDIAN 4 RANGE 14 TOWNSHIP 49

SECTION 20

QUARTER NORTH EAST

EXCEPTING THEREOUT ALL MINES AND MINERALS AREA: 64.7 HECTARES (160 ACRES) MORE OR LESS

Maple Lodge School District NW 20-48-11-W4 0.16 acres

Lake Vernon School DistrictSW 4-46-11-W4 2.86 acres

Lornedale School District NE 29-49-12-W4 0.94 acres

Poplar Hill School District NW 14-48-12-W4 1.0 acres

Lornedale School District SE 32-49-12-W4 0.94 acres

Lakeford School District SE 1-46-13-W4 3.0 acres

Jubilee/Bruce 1 SE 13-49-15-W4 2.64 acres

Flagstaff County Undeveloped Land

Doupe School District SW 13-39-12-W4 4.0 acres

Bedford School District NW 11-41-13-W4 2.0 acres

Sunrise School District NE 26-45-14-W4 1.0 acres

Village of Holden (empty lot 1) 4558HW;6;16 (Ref NW 14-49-16-W4) 0.16 acres

Village of Holden (empty lot 2) 4558HW;6;17 (Ref NW 14-49-16-W4) 0.16 acres

Any bid and all bids may be rejected. The deadline for accepting offers will be 4:00 p.m., Monday, April 28, 2025. The offers shall be in writing and shall indicate the bidder's full legal name, address, telephone number and email address (if applicable).

The successful bidder, if any, will be required to enter into an Offer to Purchase on terms and conditions satisfactory to Battle River School Division. The foregoing terms and conditions are mandatory, and failure to fully meet any one of them wholly or in part may result in its rejection at Battle River School Division’s entire discretion.

All legal costs are to be assumed by the purchaser.

Inquiries are to be directed to Imogene Walsh at iwalsh@brsd.ab.ca, 780-672-6131 Ext. 5235.

Offers are to be mailed to the attention of Imogene Walsh, Secretary-Treasurer, Battle River School Division, 4302 38 St., Camrose, AB T4V 4B2. (more or less)

The land is located approximately 5 miles north and 1.5 miles east of Bruce, Alberta. The property consists of approximately 50 cultivated acres and approximately 110 acres of pasture which is fenced and cross-fenced for cattle. There is a dugout with a water system. The land has had no fertilizer or chemicals for 10 years.

The Vermilion River runs through the land.

Tenders are to be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “COLLISON Tender”, to Scott Farnham at Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP, Barristers and Solicitors, 5016 - 52nd Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1V7, on or before 12:00 noon, APRIL 29, 2025, and shall be accompanied with GST number and a certified cheque or bank draft payable to Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP in trust for 5% of the tender price.

No conditional tenders will be accepted and the highest, or any tender, will not necessarily be accepted.

Tenders will not be opened in public. The deposits of all unsuccessful tenderers will be returned to them by regular mail.

The successful tenderer will be obligated to complete the purchase on or before MAY 26, 2025. The 5% deposit shall constitute a deposit towards the purchase price. Taxes will be adjusted on closing date. There will be no other adjustments. If the successful tenderer fails to complete the transaction by the closing date, the deposit will be forfeited.

Vendor makes no warranties or representations about the property’s size, condition or environmental state.

The purchase and sale shall proceed utilizing title insurance including “GAP” coverage. The cost of title insurance shall be borne by the Purchaser.

Tenders are irrevocable and shall remain open until dealt with by the offices of Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP.

For further information or to view the property, please contact Dale Collison at 1-780-688-2471. For further information about the tender process, please call Scott Farnham at 780-679-0444.

This Tender may also be viewed on the Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP website: www.fwsllp.ca

KARI JANZEN PHOTO

JOHN’S RANT OPINION

So as we approach the April 28 election date, does size matter? This is interesting because we see large crowds attending Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre rallies across the country.

Yet, the national polls of electors put the Liberals in the lead to form a slim majority government with two weeks to go before the national vote.

Which begs the question which is more representative of voter intent? In Edmonton, Poilievre had roughly 15,000 fill a warehouse just north of Nisku April 7.

And while I’m sure there are naysayers out there who would dispute the crowd size, I can say my friend and I attempted to attend the rally. We arrived in Nisku a good hour before doors were scheduled to open and we couldn’t park closer than several kilometres away. I’m awaiting knee surgery and certainly couldn’t walk from where we could park to the venue which we never did get close too. So attendance was out of the question.

But this sort of crowd size is nothing new for Poilievre in Alberta.  I have attended a couple of rallies for him, one when he was seeking the leadership of the Conservatives and another last spring where he easily packed in 10,000 people in both instances.

And according to reports this election campaign he has 5,000 in Surrey, B.C.; 6,500 in Oshawa and 3,000 in Kingston, both in Ontario.

In Prince Edward Island 1,700 packed a room in Charlottetown to listen to Poilievre, and crowds were of a similar size across Atlantic Canada.

But the question remains, will these people attending the rallies vote Conservative or even show up to vote?

Back in December, poll numbers showed the Conservatives on their way to a super majority government because Canadians were so fed up with Justin Trudeau as the prime minister.

In pops Mark Carney to be anointed the new Liberal leader after former finance minister Chrystia Freeland pretty much forced Trudeau to the ditch and ultimate resignation.

Suddenly polls were closing the spread and then after US President Donald Trump unleashed his financial acumen on Canada and the world and the world economy, the polls became much closer in fact giving the Liberals a slight lead.

Now of late these national pollsters haven’t had a great record.

In the US with the backing of mainstream media, they so wanted Kamala Harris to win the presidential

Does size or national polls

election. They wanted the democrats to win so badly they, mainstream media, initially ignored the fact former president Joe Biden was suffering some serious memory deficiencies.

Once he was forced to step aside in the presidential race, Harris and her squad bullied their way into the

It was nip and tuck through the

MLA Lovely - Government moves towards modernizing healthcare

Our government is making meaningful progress in delivering a stronger, more integrated health care system that ensures better care for every Albertan, regardless of where they live. As your MLA, I am proud to support our government’s work to refocus our health care system and ensure that key services are properly supported through specialized, effective oversight.

The creation and rollout of the new provincial health agencies, Primary Care Alberta, Acute Care Alberta, and Recovery Alberta, represent a significant step toward modernizing and strengthening our province’s health care delivery.

These agencies are now operational and already beginning to improve how services are delivered across Alberta.

We can also look forward to the launch of Assisted Living Alberta later this year, which will further enhance support for seniors and others in need of long-term care solutions.

As part of this transformation, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is transitioning to focus primarily on hospitalbased care under the leadership of Acute Care Alberta. This shift allows for greater specialization and improved delivery of services that are vital to the health and wellbeing of our communities. This includes transferring responsibility for emergency health services from AHS to Acute Care Alberta, ensuring that Albertans receive prompt, efficient, and well-coordinated emergency care.

Importantly, our government is also taking bold steps to improve cancer care and organ and tissue donation services.

Later this year, oversight and policy for both of these critical areas will move from AHS to Acute Care Alberta.

This move reflects a commitment to providing the best possible care in areas that are essential to a high-func-

tioning health care system.

Cancer Care Alberta, under Acute Care Alberta’s oversight, will be empowered to focus exclusively on providing timely, cutting-edge treatments and services for those battling cancer.

It will also have greater responsibility for managing its workforce, along with capital and operational funding.

This focus will help ensure that patients receive the care they need when they need it, with greater responsiveness and accountability, including a dedicated process to address concerns and complaints.

The same level of focus is being applied to organ and tissue donation and transplantation.

Hundreds of Albertans benefit from these life-saving procedures every year, and with oversight transferred to Acute Care Alberta, we will see streamlined processes, more targeted program development, and a clear vision to improve outcomes for patients and their families.

It’s a powerful reminder of the impact a single donor can have on saving or improving up to 75 lives.

These changes, supported by proposed legislation and additional regulations to be introduced this spring, represent a thoughtful and strategic shift in how health care is managed in Alberta. By enabling specialized agencies with clearer mandates, our government is ensuring the long-term sustainability and excellence of our health system.

Our province is moving forward with purpose and clarity. Albertans can be confident that the care they receive, whether in a hospital, community clinic, or through life-saving transplant services, is backed by a system built to deliver results as we put patients first in Alberta.

presidential nomination without a proper Democratic convention.

fall

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 LOVELYCAMROSE MLA

RCMP Report

Tofield RCMP received 66 calls for service – seventeen complaints were related to traffic offences. Four included collisions of which two were related to animal collisions. One violation ticket was issued and one road side suspension was given. Several complaints of licence plates being stolen were made throughout this time frame.

Twenty-four calls were related to Wellbeing checks, suspicious persons complaints, Mental Health calls or assistance general public in someway.

On April 2, a complaint was made regarding on line scams. One included the Stars Lottery. Police remind everyone that to take precautions when dealing with individuals over the internet and never give out personal information.

On April 7, a complaint of a stolen 2001 Dodge Ram was re-

ported. The vehicle was taken from the area of 54 Avenue and 52 Street in Tofield. It’s possible the window was broken to gain access. No witnesses or suspects at this time.

On April 7, a F350 stolen out of Edmonton was recovered near Rge Rd 192 and Twp Rd 504 in Beaver County. No one around vehicle at time of recovery. April 7 the Holden Rural Academy was broken into. Two

youths were found on the property. Both the parents and the principal were notified. Nothing was taken and no damage found.

On April 8 a report of a purchase via facebook was made. The seller was provided a link to have the money deposited into his account. The seller realized this was a scam and notified the bank immediately.

On April 10 a complaint was made from a company near Rge Rd

Teresa Gratrix County Administrator

RCMP reports Holden Academy B&E, theft of copper wire in county

161 and Twp Rd 500. Someone had cut the copper wire around the perimeter. No video surveillance of the area was available. Unknown when exactly it occurred.

To report emergencies or serious crimes in progress call 911. To report incidents that require Tofield RCMP to investigate or assist call the 24 hour complaint line 780-662-3352

Tofield RCMP

Annual Meeting Wednesday, April 23rd @ 7 pm

NOTICE is hereby given that a meeting of the electors of Camrose County will be held at the Camrose County Administration Office at 3755-43 Avenue at 7:00 pm on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 for the discussion of the affairs of Camrose County.

CWRS

-Wheat Midge tolerant - Very good lodging resistance

CWSWS - AC Andrew - Great silage option

-In demand by milling and ethanol industries

Yellow Peas:

CDC Canary - Improved standability

-Early maturity

-Higher Yielding

Faba Beans:

CDC 219-16 - Zero Tannin

- Seed is smaller than Snowbird, larger than CDC Snowdrop

6-Row Feed Barley:

AB Advantage - Improved plump and bushel weight

- Smooth awned

-High grain and forage yield

2-Row Malt Barley:

CDC Copeland - Strong demand by malting companies

Round Hill Farm to School program teaching important life skills

Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter

Round Hill School students in Grades 6 to 9 have been getting their hands dirty participating in the Farm to School program which Battle River School Division (BRSD) says enriches student learning through handson experiences in agriculture, sustainability, and healthy eating.

"Supported by a Farm to School Canada Grant and Farm to Cafeteria Canada, the initiative features a school garden where students grow, harvest, and prepare fresh produce, promoting nutrition and environmental stewardship," a BRSD media release stated.

Round Hill School principal Brian Horbay says the program has transformed learning by connecting students to the land, the food, and the community.

"This program is made possible because of true community support. Students are wholly involved with the meal from initial planning, phoning local suppliers for donations of product, as well as planting and harvesting the produce in the spring and fall, to the time it is served and right up until the cleanup at the end of the day,” he said.

The program began after the school was a successful recipient of the Farm to Cafeteria grant in the 2022 grant cycle.

“The program began in the 2022-23 school year and has continued to expand and grow each subsequent year,” Round Hill teacher Taren Lindstrand said.

“We are feeding more people, up to 200, more complex meals and we are more integrated into our school. All grant money was used within two years. Now we are donation based, from our school community and local organizations like the Round Hill Elks, Round Hill Women's Institute, and Round Hill Renaissance Agricultural Foundation," Lindstrand

said.

Meal prep, cleaning, finding recipes, sourcing ingredients from local farmers and businesses, writing information to send home, cooking, and serving are all tasks com-

pleted by students.

"This year junior high students chose different countries to base our meals on each month. They researched culturally important food items and included this infor-

mation in the letters that went home to families prior to the meal. Each meal includes different food preparation, cooking and presentation skills,” Lindstrand said.

"We also have a big in-

tergenerational focus with our meals. We have local parents and grandparents volunteer and share their skills with us.

We invite school and local families and community members to share the meal with us," she said.

BRSD Superintendent Rhae-Ann Holoien says the program demonstrates experiential and cultural learning that is

necessary for meaningful educational experiences.

“Our students and their learning journeys are guided by our 202427 Education Plan, which encourages collaborative hands-on learning, integrating Indigenous knowledge into the experiences of each student to offer the opportunity for every student to be successful,” she said.

LOCATION: 232057 Township Rd. 460, Wetaskiwin County

DIRECTIONS: Being from the Wetaskiwin Co-op,

Secondary

Tractors: 2000 NH TM135 F.W.A. Tractor, CAH, 3pth, dual PTO, Dual Hyd., 18-sp trans, c/w Quicke ALO Q980 F.E.L. c/w Quick Attach Bucket & Bale Fork, Joy Stick controll, 1701 hrs., like new, S/N 82006827; JD 4430 Tractor, CAH, Quad Range Trans, dual PTO, dual hyd, 20.8x38 duals, 9500 hrs. showing, 500 hrs, on new eng, S/N 4430H 039558R Harvest Equipment: JD Turbo 8820 SP Hydro Combine, CAH, chopper & pick-up, 3700 hrs, S/N HO8820X565064; JD 22222-ft Straight Cut Header c/w pick-up reels & transport; Case International 4000 19-ft SP Hydro Swather c/w rubberized canvases, pick-up reels, C.A., S/N 191C0830009776; Brandt 842 Super Charger Grain Auger c/w hyd transport, hyd lift, 27-hp ES motor; Westfield W80-41 PTO Grain Auger; Kongskilde Cushion Air 500 Grain Vac c/w hoses, 540 PTO; Westfield Endgate Mount Hyd. Drill Fill Truck: 1981 International Tandem Truck, 446 V-8 eng, 5x4 trans, c/w 18-ft. x 7ft. x 57-inch wooden box, roll tarp, drill fill plumbed, Nordeg Hoist, 90,021 km, S/N

HTAF19B7BCA15142

Equipment: JD 9350 - 20 ft Hoe Drill Press c/w fert. attach; JD 530 Round Baler c/w hyd., pick-up, 540 PTO, S/N E00530X699124; JD 220-20-ft. Tandem Disc. c/w single wing; Morris Challenger L320-30-ft. VS Cult c/w mounted harrows & new shovels; Flexi-Coil 60-ft. Auto Fold Harrow Drawbar c/w tine harrows; 45-ft. Coil Packers c/w hyd fold; Hyd Trailer VDitcher; Leon 10-ft Undermount Hyd Lift Blade Van: 2005 Chev Montana Van, 6-cyl, power window, A., seats 6, 227,000 km, S/N 1GMDVD3E75D111859

Miscellaneous: 3pth 1-bottom Plow; 100gal. Tidy Tank c/w 12V pump; 3pth Hyd. Wood Splitter; Caldwell 1-hp Aeration Fan; Auger Hoppers; IHC Antique Pump Engine; Quad Mount Grass Seeder; Hay Tester; Grain Tester; Assort. Wrenches; Crescent Wrenches; 30-ft. Alum. Ext. Ladder; Assort. Chains; 16 Crop Lifters; Older Cattle Squeeze; (2) 16ft. Gates

Round Hill School students stand alongside the garden during a stage of harvest.

Tofield Hotel sees change in hands

Cassandra Lundbek Staff Reporter

After nearly two decades running the Tofield Hotel, Vince Galea is handing over the keys to a new owner. The sale of the iconic hotel marks more than just a change in ownership; new owner Manny Himansoo is committed to preserving this key piece of the town’s history.

“He’s coming in with both feet,” Galea said. “He's going to restore the building to the historical site. They'll be going back to brick, rebuilding the vintage bar, redoing the rooms, creating more rooms. He's got a lot of expectations,” Galea said.

Drawn in by former owners Lawrence Usak and Ken Allen, Galea left his career as a superintendent at Sealy Mattress to invest in the hotel. Over his 18 years operating and 14 years as owner, the hotel Galea has made countless memories.

“There’s so many I can’t even think of just one to share,” he said.

“We've had some of the biggest bands in North America play. My highlight is to have the best blues guitarist, Jack De

Keyzer. He comes here whenever he's travelling through from Ontario. A Juno Award winning musician playing in a small town, I'm going to say that's huge,” said Galea.

The hotel, which has stood in the community since 1912, has been a gathering place for travelers, storytellers, and explorers offering warm hospitality, rich heritage, and a vintage bar. It has seen its share of ups and downs including the crushing impacts of COVID-19.

“It really kicked us in the butt,” Galea said. “That was really hard to recover from. In the last year or so I'd say it has come back; customers have come back. Unfortunately, two years later.”

Despite the hard times Galea reflects

fondly on his time at the hotel and the many friends he’s met during his years there. He also showed pride in helping people through rough times by giving them a place to stay when they were unable to find or afford other accommodations.

While cleaning up, preparing for the sale, they found several relics from before Galea’s time, including lanterns, money, old newspapers, “a bunch of different things.”

While he will cherish his memories at the hotel, he is enthusiastic about its future and the man who will be taking his place as owner.

Galea describes the moment when Himansoo, a modernized man with businesses all over the world, saw the hotel: “He just looked at it and loved it.”

“I hope the best for the man; he is a great guy. He has lots of great ideas and I don't think he'll have a problem getting it done,” Galea said.

Tofield School hosts career fair

Cassandra Lundbek Staff Reporter

Tofield School partnered with the Education Liaison Association of Alberta (ELAA) on Tuesday, April 8 to welcome representatives from 20 postsecondary institutions across Alberta to Tofield for a career fair.

Held from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., the event was directed toward students in Grades 9 through 12, with parents also invited

to attend. Soren Skaret, a student recruiter with the University of Alberta, said the career fair “helps kids realize what’s out there.”

“They can learn about other programs and the classes that they need to take in high school to get there. It especially helps the students who are not yet in their Grade 11 and 12 years, to plan out their future courses to make sure they get into the program they are interested

in,” he said.

The event featured representatives from a wide range of post-secondary institutions, including the University of Alberta, SAIT, NAIT, MacEwan University, NorQuest, Olds College, Northern Lakes College, among others. Whether students were considering trades, diplomas, university degrees, or online learning pathways, there was something for everyone.

“ELAA events are di-

rectly applicable to the general outcomes in Alberta’s CALM (Career and Life Management) curriculum,” Tofield School principal Zenovia Lazaruik said.

With such a wide variety of options spread out across the province, Lazaruik said these faceto-face conversations can open up many possible future paths for students.

“We strive to ensure that our students in rural Alberta are aware of the opportunities available to them at trade schools, colleges, and universities to support their career paths,” stated Lazaruik.

Diane Bellerose, Recruitment Officer for Northern Lakes College, spoke highly of their flexible delivery methods.

“We are really a multifaceted institute. We're actually a supported dis-

tance learning institute, one of the only ones in Alberta, so all of our programs are available through supported online learning. It's synchronous or asynchronous delivery, which is super unique—the most flexible post-secondary education in the province,” she said.

The ELAA career fair offered a glimpse into what’s possible in the province for local youth. Whether students are interested in trades, traditional university degrees, or unique, flexible programs, the event provided them the opportunity to picture the possibilities.

Diane Bellerose, Recruitment Officer with Northern Lakes College, was ready to connect with students and showcase flexible learning options.

BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP For Sale: Common Seed Oats

BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP September & October Open by appointment only

BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP For Sale: Common Seed Oats, Pony Oats and Barley

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

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB November

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB

The Beaver County Chronicle

A Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County

Wednesday, December 4, 2024, Volume 17, Issue 49

Wednesday, April 16, 2025, Volume 18, Issue 15

Wednesday, November , 2023, Volume 16, Issue 46

WednesdayFebruary162022Volume15Issue7

Code of conduct policy for councillors passed, conflict of interest disclosures now voluntary

Patricia Harcourt

Beaver County Council gave second and third readings to Bylaw 25-1165 Council Code of Conduct at the March 26 regular meeting. The matter was brought forward by Margaret Jones, general manager of legislative services, to bring the county in line with Bill 20, the Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act of October 31 last year. Also, several sections of the Municipal Government Act (MGA) were amended.

“The Council Code of Conduct Bylaw requires the following amendments to align with the new Act,” she stated.

One amendment was to add “conflict of interest” to Section 11.1. “The MGA now allows councillors to disclose and abstain from voting on matters of a conflict of interest or perceived conflict of interest,” she said.

The second amendment is to adjust the time frame for councillor orientation in Section 14.1.

“The MGA outlines specific orientation training that must be provided after a general election,” said Jones.

“And this training must be conducted within specific time lines.”

The third amendment clarifies the limitations of the complaint process for matters of conflict of interest in Sections 18.1 and 19.1.

“Disclosures of conflict of interest are voluntary and the MGA protects such disclosure or non-disclosure from being considered in any hearings regarding potential disqualification or the process to determine the validity of a complaint of a breach of the Code of Conduct,” states Jones.

She noted that “the Code of Conduct is subject to all limitations in the MGA; however, to make clear to any reader of the Code of Conduct Bylaw this limitation is referred to in general terms in the Bylaw.”

Council passed first reading on the bylaw at the February council meeting.

Beaver and Strathcona counties to meet on water supply issues

Patricia Harcourt

Beaver County will send officials to meet with Strathcona County Council to discuss waterrelated issues between these adjacent jurisdictions.

The issues include west end fire protection, water supply to the regional waterline, and other water-related supply issues.

Beaver County discussed the Strathcona/Beaver Inter-municipal

Development Plan at the March regular meeting of the Governance and Priorities Committee (GPC).

“The committee recommended that council authorize two councillors to meet with Strathcona County councillors to discuss fire protection in the west end of the county and water supply-related issues,” stated Chief Administrative Officer Kayleena Spiess.

A motion was passed to authorize the two west end councillors, Reeve Kevin Smook

(Division 1) and Councillor Lionel Williams (Division 2), to attend the meeting with Strathcona.

Also included would be the county CAO, Beaver Emergency Services Commission (BESC) Regional Emergency Manager (REM), and Highway 14 Regional Water Services Commission Acting CAO, to attend a meeting with Strathcona County councillors regarding the outlined water related issues..

New risk management policy put into place

Patricia Harcourt

A new risk management policy has been put in place by Beaver County Council, replacing the former risk control policy.

“Beaver County is committed to delivering cost-effective services that best meet the needs of its taxpayers and community,” said Ryan Arndt, general manager of corporate services, to council at the regular March 26 meeting.

“Being fiscally responsible includes ensuring

that the county is covered in all aspects by managing risk,” he explained.

“Administration is responsible for limiting loss and making sure that municipal operations are uninterrupted if losses do occur,” he said. “As a municipal entity Beaver County has a low risk tolerance approach in order to safeguard public funds.”

He also explained why the policy’s name was changed to risk management from the original risk control name. “No single organization can completely control risk,” he said.

“Administration strives to mitigate risk to an acceptable level,” which he defined as “low” in nature.

The February 2025 meeting of the Governance and Priorities Committee meeting recommended the approval of the new policy. At the March 26 meeting, council approved the new policy and passed a motion as well by Councillor Barry Bruce (Division 4) to rescind the old policy.

May7

May 7

IMPORTANT DATES

IMPORTANTDATES

9:30 AM - 4:00 PM - Governance and Priorities Committee Meeting May 21

9:30AM-4:00PM-GovernanceandPrioritiesCommitteeMeeting May21

9:30 AM - 4:00 PM - Regular Council Meeting

9:30AM-4:00PM-RegularCouncilMeeting

WHATS HAPPENING IN OUR COMMUNITY

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!

BookClub Location:RossCreekCommunityHall,531041RgeRd191 RuralbookclubthatmeetsthefirstTuesdayofeachmonth.Meetings runfrom7PM-8PM,allageswelcome!

Tofield AA - Thursdays, 8 - 9 PM

Basement of Bardo Lutheran Church, 4737 57 Ave, Tofield Viking AA - Wednesdays, 8 PM, Zoom option also available Golden Valley Lutheran Church, 5327 56 Ave, Viking https://area78aa org/meetings/147-3

Holden Steak Night - Friday April 25 from 5-7:30 PM at the Holden Complex Steak - $30 or Steak and Shrimp - $35 (Children’s meals available) Call or Text Lucy for more information at 780-781-6014

TofieldAA -Thursdays,8-9PM BasementofBardoLutheranChurch,473757Ave,Tofield. VikingAA -Wednesdays,8PM,Zoomoptionalsoavailable. GoldenValleyLutheranChurch,532756Ave,Viking. https://area78aa.org/meetings/147-3 HoldenSteakNight -FridayApril25from5-7:30PMattheHolden Complex.Steak-$30orSteakandShrimp-$35.(Children’smeals available)CallorTextLucyformoreinformationat780-781-6014

Submit your event/s, meetings and/or gatherings to the events calendar on the website! Just head to the website, under the Explore menu click on County Region Events Calendar We have partnered with Go East to share local events on our website!

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

DEVELOPMENTPERMITS

DEVELOPMENT PERMITS

ThefollowingDevelopmentApplicationshavebeenAPPROVED(except whereotherwisenoted)bytheDevelopmentAuthorityundertheprovisions ofLandUseBylawNo.98-801,subjecttotherightofappealtotherelevant appealbody-SubdivisionandDevelopmentAppealBoard(SDAB)orLand andPropertyRightsTribunal(LPRT).

The following Development Applications have been APPROVED (except where otherwise noted) by the Development Authority under the provisions of Land Use Bylaw No 98-801, subject to the right of appeal to the relevant appeal body - Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB) or Land and Property Rights Tribunal (LPRT)

APPEALDEADLINE

APPEAL DEADLINE Appeal Body Application No APRIL 30, 2025

, celebrating the return of our feathered friends as they migrate through the Beaver County region

HeatherWheeliker

Heather Wheeliker

AppealBody ApplicationNo. Applicant Landowner Location Development APRIL30,2025 SDAB 020020-24-D0009

Lot 21, Block 2 Plan 190 TR in NE 35-51-20-W4 Discretionary Use – 288 ft2 Cabin (Temporary

Same Lot21,Block2Plan190TRinNE35-51-20-W4 DiscretionaryUse–288ft2Cabin(Temporary Accommodation)

Any person wishing to appeal an application may do so by serving written notice on the prescribed form (stating reasons for the appeal) to the relevant appeal body For information on how to appeal can be found our our website under Services > Planning & Development > Appealing Planning Decisions

Further information regarding the above decisions may be obtained from the County Office, Ryley, Alberta

Anypersonwishingtoappealanapplicationmaydosoby servingwrittennoticeontheprescribedform(stating reasonsfortheappeal)totherelevantappealbody.For informationonhowtoappealcanbefoundourour websiteunder Services>Planning&Development> AppealingPlanningDecisions Furtherinformationregardingtheabovedecisionsmaybe obtainedfromtheCountyOffice,Ryley,Alberta.

Visit our booth at the Tradeshow at

Beaver County will be holding a public hearing to give residents an opportunity to provide input on the proposed Community Standards Bylaw The purpose of this Bylaw is to set standards for community safety, residential property maintenance and use, protect public spaces, prevent disputes between neighbours by providing guidance on issues that affect relationships between neighbours, establish fines for contraventions of the Bylaw, and enable enforcement of contraventions of the Bylaw

Bylaw.ThepurposeofthisBylawistosetstandardsforcommunitysafety, residentialpropertymaintenanceanduse,protectpublicspaces,prevent disputesbetweenneighboursbyprovidingguidanceonissuesthataffect relationshipsbetweenneighbours,establishfinesforcontraventionsofthe Bylaw,andenableenforcementofcontraventionsoftheBylaw.

TheproposedbylawcanbeviewedbeloworobtainedattheBeaver CountyOffice(5120–50Street,Ryley)orontheCounty’swebsiteunderthe Newssectionatwww.beaver.ab.ca.

The proposed bylaw can be viewed below or obtained at the Beaver County Office (5120 – 50 Street Ryley) or on the County s website under the News section at www beaver ab ca

Detailsofthepublichearingareasfollows:

Date: Wednesday,April30,2025

Details of the public hearing are as follows: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 7:00 p m

Time: 7:00p.m.

Location: RyleyCommunityCentre,5102-49St,Ryley

Contact: MeaganWalsh-780-663-3730ext.1023or mwalsh@beaver.ab.ca

Ryley Community Centre, 5102-49 St, Ryley Meagan Walsh - 780-663-3730 ext 1023 or mwalsh@beaver ab ca

To Speak or submit written comments: please register/submit to Kady McKinney (kmckinney@beaver ab ca) no later than 4:30 p m , Tuesday, April 22, 2025 Written submissions will not be accepted during the public hearing

ToSpeakorsubmitwrittencomments: pleaseregister/submitto KadyMcKinney(kmckinney@beaver.ab.ca)nolaterthan4:30p.m., Tuesday,April22,2025. Writtensubmissionswillnotbeaccepted duringthepublichearing.

If you submit written comments regarding the proposed bylaw, the information you provide may be made public subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act

Ifyousubmitwrittencommentsregardingtheproposed bylaw,theinformationyouprovidemaybemadepublic subjecttotheprovisionsofthe FreedomofInformation andProtectionofPrivacyAct.

ention outdoor enthusiasts! Planning ur next camping adventure? Why not try t Camp Lake or Black Nugget!

Attentionoutdoorenthusiasts!Planning yournextcampingadventure?Whynottry outCampLakeorBlackNugget!

cess the online booking ool on our website under Explore menu

Accesstheonlinebooking toolonourwebsiteunder the Exploremenu

MANAGEMENT

From May through October 2025, Beaver County will conduct its roadside maintenance to enhance road safety and manage veg

annual etation

FromMaythroughOctober2025,BeaverCountywillconductitsannual roadsidemaintenancetoenhanceroadsafetyandmanagevegetation.

Theprogramincludes:

The program includes:

Spot Herbicide Applications: Targeting tree and brush regrow County road allowances across all divisions, with a focus on D

Blanket Spraying: Comprehensive herbicide application in D and 2 to control widespread vegetation

SpotHerbicideApplications:Targetingtreeandbrushregrowthwithin Countyroadallowancesacrossalldivisions,withafocusonDivision5. BlanketSpraying:ComprehensiveherbicideapplicationinDivisions1 and2tocontrolwidespreadvegetation.

MechanicalBrushControl:Removingtreesandbrushthroughoutthe Countytoimprovetrafficsafety,facilitatemachinerymovement, reducesnowtrappinginwinter,andenhancesightlinesat intersectionsandnearproperties.

Mechanical Brush Control: Removing trees and brush throug County to improve traffic safety, facilitate machinery movem reduce snow trapping in winter, and enhance sightlines at intersections and near properties

Weed Inspections: Conducting county-wide inspections to id and manage regulated weed species

WeedInspections:Conductingcounty-wideinspectionstoidentify andmanageregulatedweedspecies.

th within ivision 5 ivisions 1 hout the ent, entify ic

Forconcernsrelatedtoweedandbrushcontrol,orhayingalong provincialhighways,pleasecontactAlbertaTransportationandEconomic Corridorsat310-0000,orEmconServiceIncat1-800-390-2242

For concerns related to weed and brush control, or haying along provincial highways, please contact Alberta Transportation and Econom Corridors at 310-0000, or Emcon Service Inc at 1-800-390-2242

Mailinglist

Website

HAPPY EASTER!

Wishing you a joyful Easter filled with peace love and plenty of chocolate! May your weekend be spent with loved ones, creating special memories and enjoying the spring sunshine

WishingyouajoyfulEasterfilledwithpeace,love,and plentyofchocolate!Mayyourweekendbespentwithlovedones, creatingspecialmemoriesandenjoyingthespringsunshine.

Please note: Our office will be closed on Friday, April 18 and Monday, April 21 for the Easter holiday We’ll reopen on Tuesday, April 22 with regular hours

Pleasenote: OurofficewillbeclosedonFriday,April18andMonday, April21fortheEasterholiday.We’llreopenonTuesday,April22with regularhours.

Have a safe and happy long weekend!

Haveasafeandhappylongweekend!

REGISTRATIONOPENFOR“RUNNINGFOR MUNICPALOFFICECAMPAIGN”WEBINARS

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR “RUNNING FOR MUNICPAL OFFICE CAMPAIGN” WEBINARS

Inanticipationofthisfall’smunicipalelections,RMAandAlberta Municipalities(ABmunis)arehostinganeducationalwebinarseries aspartoftheRunningforMunicipalOfficeCampaign.Thewebinar serieswillrunfromApriltoSeptemberandofferone-hourlive, interactivesessionstailoredtonumerousaudiencetypes,including small,mid-sized,large,andruralmunicipalities.

In anticipation of this fall’s municipal elections, RMA and Alberta Municipalities (ABmunis) are hosting an educational webinar series as part of the Running for Municipal Office Campaign The webinar series will run from April to September and offer one-hour live, interactive sessions tailored to numerous audience types, including small, mid-sized, large, and rural municipalities

Thewebinarsaimto:

The webinars aim to:

Build strong, effective councils across Alberta

Equip potential candidates with a clear understanding of municipal roles

Buildstrong,effectivecouncilsacrossAlberta Equippotentialcandidateswithaclearunderstandingof municipalroles

Ensure new councillors are better prepared for their

Ensurenewcouncillorsarebetterpreparedfortheir responsibilities

Strengthen the relationship between councils and administration

Help potential candidates make more informed decisions about running for office

Strengthentherelationshipbetweencouncilsandadministration Helppotentialcandidatesmakemoreinformeddecisionsabout runningforoffice

In the webinar sessions, guest council members will be in attendance to communicate their lived experiences and perspectives and share with participants what they wish they had known before running for municipal council Participants will also have the opportunity to ask the guest council members questions

Inthewebinarsessions,guestcouncilmemberswillbeinattendance tocommunicatetheirlivedexperiencesandperspectivesandshare withparticipantswhattheywishtheyhadknown beforerunningformunicipalcouncil.Participants willalsohavetheopportunitytoasktheguest councilmembersquestions.

To register, visit www rmalberta com or scan the QR code

Toregister,visitwww.rmalberta.comorscanthe QRcode.

NOMINATIONSOPENFORMUNICIPALELECTION

NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR MUNICIPAL ELECTION

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Municipal Election Thinking of running for Council?

Nominationsarenowopenfor the2025MunicipalElection. ThinkingofrunningforCouncil?

Visitourwebsiteunder: Government>MunicipalElection2025orscan

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

InformationonCountyprogramsandservicescan befoundonourwebsite,alongwiththelatestnews.

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

SATURDAY APRIL26,1PM

HOLDENCOMMUNITYHALL 4919-49Ave.HOLDEN,AB

HOLDEN CO 4919 - 49 A A Musicians/Participants - No Charge Come Dance to the Music!

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

Social media

Find us on Facebook X (Twitter) or more info: ave 780-720-5839 or beaverhillplayers17@gmail com D

Use of county vehicles updated in new policy

Patricia Harcourt

Beaver County revised its policy regarding the use of county vehicles at its last meeting March 26.

The changes resulted in the approval of Policy CORP-029-Use of County Vehicles and Accompanying Administrative Procedure.

Once approved, council proceeded to rescind the old Policy ADM-012-Use of County Vehicles.

In his report to council, Ryan Arndt, General Manager of Corporate Services, provided background information.

“Employee use of county vehicles is necessary to perform regular duties,” he stated.

“Administration is responsible for the health and safety of the county employees while also fol-

lowing tax legislation and fostering public trust.

“As part of the ongoing policy review project, administration reviewed the current policy and initially suggested the changes shown in red type,” he said, which was reviewed and approved by the Governance and Priorities Committee last August.

Arndt then stated that at the September 2024 meeting of county council, additional changes to the policies and procedures were suggested which he had outlined in blue for the March 26 meeting.

“Administration has made subsequent changes as shown in green,” and the committee provided approval of the “cleanup copy” that had been provided to them showing all the recommended changes made in February.

A motion for approval of the

new policy was made by Councillor Barry Bruce (Division 4). Before the vote took place, Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) asked: “Are we an employee on this policy?”

Arndt replied: “No, you are an elected official.”

After the approval motion passed, another motion by Councillor Dale Pederson (Division 5) to rescind the former policy was also passed by council.

- Beaver County Chronicle, April 16,

ANDRUSKY, Lyle

Jan. 22, 1948 to Apr. 3, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the loss of Lyle Richard Andrusky, who passed away on April 3, 2025 at age 77. Born Jan 22, 1948, in New Westminster, BC to John and Pauline Andrusky, he was the baby of the family.

Lyle was an outgoing and friendly person. Always ready with a joke or an interesting fact to brighten someone's day. Lyle had a drive to further education as a teacher of 35 years, and through volunteer work, like with the Edmonton Science Fair. He was a well recognized member of the Tofield community, and his presence will be missed. He is survived by his wife Vivian Andrusky and his children Kathryn, Kevin, and Debra. He was predeceased by his siblings, Mary Zibrowski, Edward Andrusky, and Bernard Andrusky.

A memorial service will be held at the Bardo Lutheran Church, 5609 48 St., Tofield, Alberta at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

Weber Funeral Home 780-662-3959

www.weberfuneralhome.ca

John Gustave Schmidt OBITUARIES

July 5, 1956 to April 5, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that the family of John Schmidt announce his sudden passing on April 5 at the age of 68.

John was born at the Tofield Hospital to Mary and Gustav Schmidt on July 5, 1956. He grew up on the family farm in the Spilstead area and continued with his passion for farming with his soulmate and best friend Donna Schmidt. Together he and Donna raised three children Lisa, Lesley, and Timothy.

John had cattle - or critters as he often called them - sheep, ponies, and donkeys that kept him busy as well as spending many hours out in the field.

He was known for his spontaneous visits to his children’s houses for a cup of coffee. John loved bartending at the Spilstead Community Hall so he could talk to all his old friends, fellow farmers, and members in the community. John enjoyed going to weekly Friday Night Darts at the hall.

John loved snowmobiling with his friends and in later years his son-in-law Derick and Grandson Cody. John liked sorting cattle, having fall woodcutting days with his family, baseball, camping, and fishing. John would also spend time with his family by watching TV shows, hockey games, and just chatting about his day.

John enjoyed telling stories about his youth and adventures on the farm. John was always willing to lend a helping hand to strangers, friends, or family.

He is survived by his three children Lisa (Derick) Kuflay, Lesley (Dan) Anderson, Timothy (Amie) Schmidt, grandchildren Kylie Kuflay (Ryan Daigle), Cody, Keifer and Colton Kuflay, Desirae, Breanna and Brooklynn Anderson, Amethyst and Garnet Schmidt, and his first Great Grandchild Wyatt Daigle. As well as his cousin Richard (Tracey) Broen, numerous nieces and nephews, in-laws, and friends.

He was predeceased by his wife Donna Schmidt, parents Mary and Gustav Schmidt, brother-in-law Al Odland, and nephew Matthew McMann.

Cremation has taken place and inurnment will be held on a later date. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 26, 2025 at Bardo Lutheran Church, Tofield, AB.

Memorial donations may be made to Spilstead Ladies Society or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Weber Funeral Home 780-662-3959 www.weberfuneralhome.ca

AINO L. JENSEN

May 6, 1943 - March 21, 2025

Aino passed away March 21, 2025 on Salt Spring Island, B.C. Aino was born in Denmark and emigrated to Canada in 1957 with his parents and 3 brothers. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jacqueline; sons, Bill (Huong); Michael (Michele), daughter Kirsten Fredrickson (Keith), 6 grandchildren; Kristy, Haley, Liam, Brendan, Brittney, Kennedy, 6 great grandchildren; Sawyer, Elliot, Arlo, Remi, Nolan and Riley; Brother Garth (Carolyn), Sisters Michelle (Darren) Fleck and Yette (Ted) Reinholt. Many nieces, nephews, relatives in Denmark, Sweden, B.C., and Alberta. He was predeceased by his parents; Verner and Elvi Jensen; 2 brothers, Leif and Rennie Jensen and twin great grandsons, Jett and Wyatt. Aino had varied careers during his life time. His first career was as a baker, which he learned at a young age under the guidance of his father, Verner, in the family bakery. Aino, along with his wife, had the Tofield Bakery from 1966 – 1976.

He was a talented musician and singer. He formed the band, The Norsemen, and had a widespread following throughout Alberta and B.C. Some of his more noteable gigs were RCMP Centennial Ball, many New Years Eve Balls for the Officers at Camp Wainwright, Octoberfests in Prince Rupert and Yellowknife, and Scandapades at the Jubilee Auditorium. He will be forever remembered for his rendition of Tom Jones' “Delilah,” especially by those who attended the Accordion Championships in Kimberley, B.C.

He owned and operated J & J Enterprises, Tofield, a heavy construction and landscaping company. He did extensive work in Tofield and area, creating landscapes on acreages, building waterfowl conservation areas for Ducks Unlimited, railbeds for CNR, building the transfer stations for Beaver County, and dug countless basements in Tofield.

Aino was a long time member of the Tofield Lions Club. For many years he was in charge of the pit BBQ for July 1st.

He relocated from Tofield to Salt Spring Island in 1991, where he established the first bottled water business on the island.

He retired in 2006, and enjoyed playing his music and singing at local venues on Salt Spring Island for many years. He loved playing outside on the deck where, on a calm evening, his music could be heard up and down Long Harbour.

Cremation has taken place and there will be no service as per his request

Annual Spring Splash at Ryley Pool coming up this weekend

Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter

The Beaver Heritage and Ag Society and Ryley swimming pool's 18th annual spring splash is happening on April 26.

To attend this event hosted at the Ryley community Hall, with dinner and a silent auction included it is $40 per ticket.

Tickets are available at Ryley Swimming Pool, Nutrien Ag Solutions in Ryley, and KC Insurance in Tofield.

Dinner will be provided by A1 catering. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance.

Shelter

from Page 4

the owner is blind,” Won said.

Chamber president Greg Litwin asked if Won’s shelter is full right now, and Won said he wants to say he is, but cannot because he still gets calls all the time.

Litwin also asked how people can get in touch with Won, and Won said social media.

“I don't have a website, so Facebook is the only thing I actually use.

“That’s pretty much how I communicate with people,” he said.

Chamber member and lawyer Kelly Kristensen asked if Won would take donations like kennels or blankets, and Won said yes, and that anything

"We estimate 140-170 to be in attendance," said Susie Williams, Ryley pool manager.

"It is a way to get the community together.

“Over the years there has been great community support and for the first event of the spring it gets people out and visiting," Williams explains.

All proceeds for the event support Ryley swimming pool.

"The funds raised at this event will be used as general revenue for the pool, and will be used to pay such things as utilities, wages, and maintenance," said Lonnie Lauber, Beaver Heritage and Ag Society Treasurer.

helps.

“Two months ago, I actually got tons of blankets from the hospital in Tofield.

“I'm just a business right now, I’m not a non-profit yet, so I’m buying vaccine, deworming, microchips, everything. I do it all myself.

“Well, my wife is a nurse at the Tofield Hospital, so she has more experience than I do and she does all the injections. I hate needles,” he said.

Rebecca Warkentin of Country Lane Pet Boarding asked Won when he anticipates to have his non-profit status so that he can accept monetary donations, and Won said he still needs one more member.

“That's my goal, but to start the process I need one more member, so I'm still

"Renovations are underway for a handicap accessible washroom/staff washroom to be added to the facility," Williams said.

"There are a couple of Lloyd Baier original paintings that will be auctioned off again this year.

“I’m excited about those. I don’t know much of the other items yet, but I’m sure that there will be some really good stuff available,” Lauber said.

"It is always a surprise for what is offered for the silent auction, always a lot of really great stuff from local businesses and individuals." Williams said.

looking for the right person. My goal this year is starting the non-profit, but there's a lot to the process,” he said.

Phone: 780-288-7147

Email: admin@trinican.ca

Website: Trinican.ca

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

CARD OF THANKS

W

e are deeply touched and forever grateful for the outpouring of support w e received after the loss of Calvin Hogg, beloved husband, brother, uncle and friend, Calvin Hogg. It is a testament to how Calvin touched the lives of so many by the cards, flowers, visits, food and memories you shared with us.

M any thanks to the doctors, nurses and EMT personnel both in the Killam Health Centre and Red Deer Regional Health Centre who cared for Calvin during his sudden illness.

Les and Cheryl at Fee & Sons provided us with exceptional support during t his most difficult of times. Your compassion and kindness helped strengthen us while making the preparations for honouring Calvin’s memory and saying farewell.

Katherine and Dan at Budding Ideas created floral arrangements both fitting and memorable for the service, as well as those received at home.

W e are deeply appreciative to Susan M acKinnon for being the life celeb rant for Calvin’s service. Her thoughtful and compassionate words b rought comfort to the family and friends gathered there. We also thank Charlotte Stenson and team for providing the lovely meal for us to share w ith those who could attend the memorial.

In lieu of Thank You cards, we have m ade a memorial donation to the Sedgewick Ag Society. The Ag Society w as a passion of Calvin’s, having served as president or vice-president for over 17 years.

Christine Forster-Hogg, Curtis and Barb Hogg, and Marge and Darrin Gausvik and their families

COMING EVENTS

Radiant Harmony presents

"A little bit of Country

A little bit of Rock 'n Roll" Sunday, April 27 at 2pm Daysland Palace Theatre Lunch to follow at Sunbeam Drop-in Centre

COMING EVENTS

PRAGUE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

ANNUAL GENERAL HALL MEETING

Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 2 PM at the Prague Hall Beverages and snack served

The Walter Jahns Singers will present their 39th Annual Spring Choral Concert on Sunday, April 27 at 7:30 pm.at the Forestburg Community Centre.

Extendicare Viking Spring Tea!

Saturday, May 3, 2025

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Serving cake, coffee & tea for $8.00 at the door.

Door Prize, Raffles, and Crafts & Baking for sale! All proceeds go to Resident Council

Flagstaff Family Day Homes

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday, May 6th, 2025 6:30 pm At the FFCS Building 4809-49th Avenue Killam, Alberta

Battle River Art Club Show and Sale

Saturday, April 26 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sedgewick Community Hall Lunch and snacks available For more information Call Chris McMullan 780-384-2167

Killam Health Care Hospital Reunion for all Past and Present Employees

Saturday, May 24 From 2 to 5 p.m. at the Killam Catholic Church Basement Hall 5214-50 ave

MEMORIAL

In memory of Glen Cottrell November 29, 1943 - April 17, 2022

"We thought of you today But that is nothing new. We thought about you yesterday And days before that too. We think of you in silence, We often speak your name. All we have are memories And your picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake from which we'll never part. God has you in His arms, We have you in our hearts."

Lovingly remembered by his wife and family.

FOR SALE

Western Rawhide 15" Saddle - use little, new bridle, saddle carry bag, the package for $750. Squire solid body electric guitar, strap, case, small Marshall amp $325. Tandy leather hand press, still in box $325 firm. Phone 780-662-3431, Tofield.

WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 225. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. Quality guaranteed

FOR SALE

INTEGRITY POST FRAME

and

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

SEED FOR SALE

BARLEY – *NEW-AB Standswell* Smooth AWN, High Yielding, Grain and Forage Great Lodging Resistance. 1st Nitrogen Use Efficient Cereral in CA. Attracting Japanese Interest.

OTHER BARLEY: Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre.

WHEAT – Pintail, Forage or Grain. OATS – AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, CDC S01 Super Oat. PEAS – Very Early Yellow Peas, Forage Peas. ALSO AVAILABLE: Polish Canola & Spring Triticale. mastinseeds.com; 403-556-2609.

HELP WANTED

The Viking Historical Society is looking for summer staff at the Viking Museum. Duties include yard maintenance, cleaning, directing tours, and cataloguing artifacts. Students and mature applications alike may apply with resume and cover letter to Box 106, Viking, AB T0B 4N0

FOR RENT

If anybody who likes country living and is looking for a place to rent, Brian has a basement available with two bedrooms. Would like a nonsmoker. The rent would be $800 per month, plus a damage deposit equal to one month's rent. Located 4 miles east of Bawlf, off Highway 13 on Range Road 172, the second place on the east side of the road. No pets allowed. If interested, call Brian at 780-6780053 for appointment to view. Available May 1.

HEALTH

HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-4535372.

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

Painting

Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749

General Contractor

Red Seal Journeyman Plumber and Gasfitter. Bathroom Renos & Tile New to the Area. 30 plus Years of Experience. Dave 403-999-8464

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.

Town & Country Guardian Drugs - Killam

We have: •a Kodak picture maker.•a colour/b&w photocopier.•cold pop and fresh snacks. •a great selection of candles, giftware, and fragrances. toys, games,and plush animals. •a huge selection of Hallmark cards. •plastic gift cards •vitamins, minerals, and herbals. •free gift wrapping. •prescription service Open 6 days a week.

CLUES ACROSS

1. Bring up

7. Child

10. Formal written defense

12. Bangladeshi currency

13. Burial site

14. In the lead

15. Large recesses in a church

16. Count on 17. Defunct phone company

18. Golf scores

19. Afflicts

21. Defensive nuclear weapon

22. Prominence

27. “The Great Lakes State”

28. SoCal ballplayer

CLUES DOWN

1. Kitchen devices

2. Wings

3. Mythological birds

4. Everyone has one

5. Matchstick game

6. Bar bill

7. Weights

8. Satisfactorily

9. Small amount 10. Tree types

11. Small protuberances

12. Equivalent of 100K BTU

14. Type of horse

17. More (Spanish)

18. Argentinian province

20. A bad act

23. Moving in a circular way

24. Battery type

33. Location of White House

34. Magnificence

36. Hip hop songstress

37. Capital of Yemen

38. __ Blyton, children’s author

39. Bomb

40. Pancake made of buckwheat flour

41. Pinkish-violet color

44. A way to make right

45. Monument to one buried elsewhere

48. Region south of Dead Sea

49. Acts out against

50. Harsh cry of a crow

51. Formal title for a woman

25. Atomic #58

26. Popular breakfast food

29. An alternative

30. Tooth caregiver

31. A way to conform

32. Disfigured men

35. Cool!

36. Genus of mosses

38. Body part

40. Kashmiri people

41. Round water pot

42. Something to purchase

43. Emit coherent radiation

44. Indicates 10

45. Advertising metric

46. Pitching stat

47. Head movement

Measles update provided by chief medical examiner

Patricia Harcourt Staff Reporter

With Alberta Health Services announcing a measles outbreak in the Two Hills-Vegreville area last week, a statement has been issued about the provincial situation.

Mark Joffe, Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, gave an update April 11 and offered advice on how to protect oneself from being infected by the virus.

“Measles outbreaks are occurring in Canada, including Alberta,” he said.

“As of April 11, we have seen 58 confirmed cases in the province and we are paying close attention to rising cases within the south and central zones.”

On April 9, the Central Zone had a confirmed caseload of 14 based on mainly Two Hills and one other in Vegreville.

“While the number of cases is concerning I want to let Albertans know that public health officials are managing the cases and contacts as well as working with local leadership to support affected communities.”

Joffe states that 48 of the 56 cases are likely no longer in the infectious stage.

“However, it’s important to note that this does not necessarily reflect risk in the community as there may be people coming into the province from other places where it’s circulating,” he cautioned. “Nor does it reflect the number of persons who have been exposed to measles.”

Joffe also warned that measles in children is a very serious illness, and can cause pneumonia, brain swelling and even

death. Early symptoms iinclude fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a blotchy red rash that appear three to seven days from the onset of fever.

Anyone with these symptoms is being told to stay home and call 911 for further information and direction on what to do.

The medical officer also wants the public to know that such outbreaks “are highly preventable,” by keeping their immunizations upto-date.

And he called it “the single most important public health intervention to prevent measles.”

Parents with children two and under “are the most susceptible to severe outcomes as a result of contracting measles,” he warned.

With measles outbreaks a symptom of the

waning of immunization over the years, Joffe offered reassurances that the vaccine is “safe and highly effective at preventing infection and complications and is readily available to eligible Albertans.”

Someone can find out in this, the Central Zone, if they are eligible by contacting their local health authority or community health centre.

Regular updates are being provided by Alberta Health at alberta.ca/measles. This includes expanded data for age groupings, estimated data for those who are outside of their period of communicability and information related to immunization status of cases and number of immunization doses administered.

“It’s important that Albertans do their part to prevent the spread of

FULL TIME

Parts Person wanted. Position available immediately. Previous parts or mechanical knowledge preferable, but will also train.

Contact Tom or Darryl 780-662-3212 or 780-914-8576

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Bondara Oilfield Services Ltd is looking for Oilfield Labourers. Full-time, year-round work.

To apply for this position please submit a resume to the following email: bondara@telus.net

measles,” said Joffe.

On April 9, AHS issued a notice of 13 confirmed cases of measles in Two Hills including seven new cases since April 4. Vegreville also had a case confirmed for a total of 14 in the Central Zone.

There was a potential at that time for infectious contact at locations in Holden and Tofield,

Make sure they know you want your vehicle brought to

TOFIELD TOFIELD AUTOBODY AUTOBODY

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

• Complete collision service

• Windshield Repair & Replacement

• All Insurance Companies

• Guaranteed Workmanship 780-662-3432 4908 - 52 Ave.

NOW HIRING!

We are seeking two dedicated and skilled First Year to Journeyman Automotive Mechanics to join our dynamic team in Killam, Alberta. Chrysler experience would be ideal but then again not essential.

✔ Are you tired of your current environment and looking for a change?

✔ Do you want to work in a tight-knit rural community?

If you possess leadership qualities, maintain a clean and organized work area, are full of energy, passion for customer service, very well organized, highly motivated individual, represent excellent communication skills to convey information clearly to team members, are enthusiastic, love helping customers and thrive on solving mechanical problems, WE NEED TO TALK!

We offer clean, fun, safe, and a warm work environment to work in. Competitive pay plan plus Health Benefits Package for you and your Family.

Join us in delivering an exceptional work experience while showcasing your skills as an Automotive Mechanic.

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

IRON CREEK GAS CO-OP LTD

is seeking one Full-Time

SERVICE PERSON

Experience with Natural Gas is an asset, but applications with a desire to learn will be trained on the job. The ability to operate equipment is an asset. References are required.

A successful applicant must be physically fit, have a clean driver’s abstract and be able to follow our drug and alcohol policy.

Please send your resume with references by email to: admin@ironcreekgas.com or you can go to our website: www.ironcreekgas.com/careers Only those persons considered for an interview will be contacted.

Tofield

Sutton announced as Liberal candidate

The Liberal Party of Canada has officially announced Brent Sutton as its candidate for the Battle River–Crowfoot riding in the next federal election.

According to his profile on the Liberal website, Sutton was born Saskatchewan and raised on a farm. His passion for politics is said to have begun early in life, as a member of the Young Liberals in the 1970s.

Sutton enjoyed a successful four-decade career as a Customer Service Agent in the airline industry, the bio says, where he developed a strong sense of duty and pride in helping others.

Since 2019, Sutton has been active in federal politics, serving on the board of a local Electoral Dis-

trict Association. He has played a key role in election campaigns, engaging directly with constituents

Bridges to represent People’s Party of Canada

Jonathan Bridges has been announced as the People's Party of Canada candidate for the Battle River–Crowfoot riding in the upcoming federal election.

According to a bio on the PPC website, Bridges is a proud Albertan, born and raised in south-central Alberta and has long been connected to the values of his community.

Bridges first entered the political arena in the 2021 federal election, running in the Bow River riding where he captured 10 per cent of the vote. With the recent boundary changes, he now looks forward to representing

Battle River–Crowfoot, a region he knows well and is proud to call home.

A truck and trailer mechanic by trade, Bridges chose a skilled profession over a university path.

He credits his homeschooling upbringing, alongside seven siblings, with shaping his strong work ethic and curiosity.

Bridges’ deep interest in politics began early; he recalls staying up late as a nine-year-old to follow the 1995 Quebec Referendum.

Outside of his work and political efforts, Bridges is a father of five and enjoys several hobbies.

through phone outreach and door knocking.

The profile says Sutton has pursued further political education through online courses, earning a certificate in Moral Foundations of Politics from Yale University and a Reconciliation Education

certificate from First Nations University of Canada.

Brent has a wife, Pat, and two adult children.

Sutton will challenge incumbent Damien Kurek in the April 28 federal election, as well as candidates of three other parties. Public profiles for Douglas Gook (Green Party), and James MacKay (NDP) were not available at press time. The Mercury hopes to have a question-and-answer for all five local candidates in next week’s edition.

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Bridges will challenge incumbent Damien Kurek in the April 28 federal election, as well as candidates of three other parties.

Public profiles for Douglas Gook (Green Party), and James MacKay (NDP) were not available at press time. The Mercury hopes to have a question-and-answer for all five local candidates in next week’s edition.

Tofield Council presented plaques for contribution to Ride For Dad

Terry Willisko with Ride for Dad met with Tofield Town Council on Monday, April 14 to present a plaque thanking the Town for their contributions to the initiative, which raises awareness and funds for

cancer research. Nation-wide, Ride for Dad has raised $43 million

its inception in

including $4 million in the

area. L-R: Councillor Norm Martineau, Assistant CAO Jeff Edwards, Terry Willisko, Deputy Mayor Harold Conquest, Mayor Deb Dueck, CAO Cindy Neufeld, Councillor Larry Tiedemann, Councillor Brenda Chehade.

John’s Rant

Continued from Page 6

Representatives.

And he unleashed his repercussions on the country and world since.

In Canada, the only election the polls have easily predicted in recent memory was the spring Ontario election where Premier Doug Ford won an easy majority.

Now Carney came in with perhaps years of experience as a banker and financial guru.

But reports are appearing from former British officials that he really didn’t save the day when Britain wanted to move ahead with Brexit and exit the European Union.

Still more reports have surfaced regarding his handling of Brookfield Asset Management and moving funds into tax havens in a couple of Caribbean jurisdictions.

Carney has not been as forthcoming to the Canadian public or even main-

stream media as one might like.

He has often taken time away from campaigning to avoid answering questions.

It has become so pronounced even the CBC doesn't really like him. Carney once he became the party leader, announced his new cabinet and included three new members not previously in the cabinet of Justin Trudeau.

Yet a great many Canadians can’t seem to recognize that this cabinet is the same one which has decimated the Canadian economy for ten years.

Carney is just a new leader, but the team is the same.

Maybe this week’s leaders’ debates will put the myth of Carney as the great Liberal saviour to rest.

And have you noticed those polls suddenly haven’t shown any undecided numbers, which used to account for a good percentage of voters?

JOHN MATHER

KARI JANZEN PHOTO

There’s a new number for non-emergency police calls

Effective Friday, April 11 individuals in Alberta are able make nonemergency police reports by calling 310-RCMP, or 310-7267.

The new function is designed to streamline the crime reporting process, optimize early stages of investigations, and reduce unnecessary calls to 911.

“310-RCMP was created to help eliminate confusion about which detachment someone should call if they experience a non-emergency.

“Non-emergencies often require a police response, but not necessarily an immediate police attendance.” says Chris Spence, Director of the Alberta RCMP Operational Communication Centre.

“We encourage people to report non-emergencies, as this helps us focus frontline efforts on high-priority calls and deploy resources in areas that need it most.”

310-RCMP calls are directed to the Alberta Operational Communication Centre who then dispatch non-emergency calls in the order of their priority. These calls will receive a police response.

Long-distance charges do not apply, and no area code prefix is re-

quired. The number is accessible to all Albertans within the province with a phone line or an active mobile phone with a cellular signal.

Non-emergencies:

• Do not pose an immediate or potential threat to life or public safety.

• Include crimes that have already taken place prior to being discovered.

• Often do not require police attendance, but do require police response.

Examples include but are not limited to:

• Minor motor vehicle collisions.

• Break and enters that already took place.

• Scams in which money or personal information was not transferred or provided.

• Lost property.

• Property damage under $5,000.

• Theft under $5,000.

While these types of reports are important, they are not an emergency.

Ways to report non-emergencies: 7

• Call 310-RCMP (7267)

• To report online, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play. Alternatively, visit www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/ab and select Online Crime Reporting under quick links.