April 30 Weekly Review by Caribou Publishing

Kurek Re-elected

Carney Liberals regain Minority Government

Battle River-Crowfoot Member of Parliament Damien Kurek has been re-elected for another term following the results of the April 28 Federal Election, receiving a dominant near 82 per cent of the local votes in the riding.

Even without all ballots counted at press time, 61,598 voters in Battle River-Crowfoot went to the polls, an increase from the 58,639 total who voted in 2021. While Kurek was elected with 71 per cent of the votes in 2021, he rose to 81.8 per cent in 2025. Liberal candidate Brent Sutton meanwhile received 11.4 per cent of the vote, NDP James MacKay received 4.4 per cent, People’s Party candidate

Jonathan Bridges 1.6 per cent, and Green’s Douglas Gook just 0.7 per cent.

Following his victory, Kurek put out a statement late Monday evening on social media, saying; “Thank you to Battle River-Crowfoot once again for the honour to serve. My promise to you is that I will work and fight to ensure you continue to be heard in the House of Commons.”

Kurek stated that while the national result did not go as hoped,”Conservatives made massive gains and will work to restore the Canadian promise.”

New Prime Minister Mark Carney, meanwhile, has officially gained a seat in the house, and his

Liberals have maintained their minority government in Canada, falling just short of a majority (with 169 elected or leading at press time).

In his victory speech, Prime Minister Carney thanked all those who were willing to put their name in to run as a candidate in the election. “Thank you for standing up to serve our country at this critical time.”

Carney also stated that his goal was to implement a government that would work for all Canadians regardless of party affiliation.

“My message to every Canadian is this: no matter

Continued on Page 9

Prime Minister Mark Carney

Battle River-Crowfoot MP Damien Kurek

Viking councillors want local realtors to list properties

Patricia Harcourt Editor

Viking Council failed to provide support for a recommendation agreeing to the use of an out-of-town realtor to sell town properties.

“I won’t support it,” said Councillor Cindy Lefsrud, at the April 22 regular meeting of town council. Lefsrud said she encountered a local realtor who was upset about being called “unprofessional” at a previous meeting when the subject of hiring a realtor to dispose of properties was discussed.

“We should support local,” said Clr. Lefsrud, asking: “Why go out of town when we have people in town who do that?”

Mayor James Buttner said he was present at the encounter with the local realtor, and asked the same question about choosing a realtor for town business.

“It was a horrible situation,” he said, but after they had “a great discussion with lots of information shared.”

He added: “We have to support local.”

The out of town business is called The Realty Bureau, which provided administration with a “contractual package of information (that) has been put together regarding the selling of town-owned properties using the Realty Bureau as the town broker,” said CAO Lefsrud in his report.

Councillor Judy Acres referred to the “fees and expenses” she noted in the Realty Bureau information package.

But CAO Lefsrud also pointed out that, “this company also works with other municipalities.”

Viking to reapply for Alberta Community Partnership Grant

Patricia Harcourt Editor

After its Alberta Community Partnership (ACP) grant application was rejected, the Town of Viking will reapply again for an ACP grant under intermunicipal cooperation.

The town’s application called for a Regional Water Services and Infrastructure Assessment Study and asked for $200,000 to conduct this study.

The 2024/25 ACP grant the town wanted was for the engineered assessment/study of the Viking Water Tower with upgrades, said Chief Administrative Officer Doug Lefsrud.

Also included was the construction of a stormwater holding pond off the upgraded storm water system in the Town of Viking.

However, the town was unsuccessful in its first attempt to get the funding, said Brandy Cox, Deputy Minister of Municipal Affairs, in a letter to the town.

“Your application was reviewed and screened against publicly available criteria in accordance with program guidelines,” stated Cox, and was not successful. “The (ACP) program received significant interest and a high volume of applications. Due to the highly competitive nature of the selection process, not all projects could be funded.”

“The Town of Viking was not successful in their application and would like to reapply in October of 2025,” CAO Lefsrud said to council, which is the next ACP grant cycle.

A motion by Councillor Judy Acres that the Town of Viking reapply for the ACP grant using the same project with the same scope was passed.

He believed this to be an advantage, stating: “It is believed because The Realty Bureau is working in neighbouring municipalities there is more opportunity to network and attract specific commercial and residential development in our area.”

He added: “The (original) intent was for the town to do its own Facebook posts (to sell properties). But the Realty Bureau approached the town.”

Mayor Buttner replied that, “I thought it was under-

stood what council would do,” regarding this sale of town-owned properties.

With that comment, Clr. Lefsrud made a motion for council not to accept the RFD asking for the town to support The Realty Bureau’s offer. As well, that the town have further discussions on how to deal with all the properties the town now owns and wants to dispose of.

This motion was carried.

Spring 2025 Large Item Pickup

Viking RCMP hosts fun 3-on-3 tournament

Patricia Harcourt Editor

A highly successful event designed to engage youth in the Viking community was held at the Viking Carena Complex last Saturday.

Viking RCMP Detachment organized a 3-on-3 Street Hockey Tournament for the first time in the community.

The event attracted youth aged 17 and under to

come out for some fun, action-packed street hockey at the local rink.

The puck was replaced by a bouncing ball but the hockey sticks were out and Sgt. Ray Stack, Detachment Commander, said the youth put on a good show.

This is one of Stack’s initiatives to get young people engaged in their community and to develop a rapport with youth as a way to change perspectives and promote understanding and communication.

The RCMP are also attending at the local school to befriend students and familiarize them with the officers working locally.

“It was a great day, the kids dominated the final game against the police,” stated the RCMP report. Games started at 10 a.m. and ran to 4 p.m. with a lunch break served by the Carena concession.

The entire day was spent on Saturday playing games, culminating in the exhibition game at 3 p.m. between the youth and RCMP.

PATRICIA HARCOURT PHOTOS.

Team RCMP at the 3-on-3 Street Hockey touornament Saturday. Back row standing from left: Administrative staff Nancy Mizera, Cst. Feng, Sgt. Stack, Cst. Kang, Cst. Coffin and Kevin Mizera. In the front row kneeling from left are: Cst. Chambers and Administrative staff Debbie Russnak.

Dear Editor:

We believe that May is an appropriate time to recognize the seventh anniversary of Alberta’s “Sexual Violence Awareness Month.” May is the time of beginnings, spring warmth, us coming together with nature to support life anew. Together is Community, a gathering of the human spirit. We enter our lives as creative, open, emotionally authentic beings: Community can foster those attributes to flourish or erode them.

Violence is always harmful, there is no grey. It is particularly harmful when experienced by the vulnerable, by children, by those who experience gender identity bias, by anyone who is perceived to be different or of lesser value to society than those who perpetrate the violence. Violent harm has a long lasting, debilitating, destructive impact when left ignored and unremarked.

Dear Editor:

A cheery late Easter note to all the tons of great people who live in the Viking community and who we enjoyed meeting as five of us worked four days of advance election polls over the long Easter weekend.

It was a very long weekend and we heard lots of stories of the wonderful family get togethers and the scrumptious sounding Easter meals that they were all enjoying, while spending quality time with their family and friends. We were doing our civic duty and working the polls, which was very interesting. And yes it was an excellent turn out of enthusiastic voters - I must say! Sending a huge thank you to our Tofield worker, who brought us Tim’s

OPINION

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Society treats sexual, domestic and other interpersonal violence as a problem belonging exclusively to the individuals involved (often only the victim): a problem to be hidden, private, not to be discussed. This violence is not private, it is a societal responsibility. As members of our society, we cannot delegate our societal responsibilities entirely to our imperfect justice system or our flawed mental health support systems. How can society exercise it’s responsibility? Through community, that gathering of human spirit, which includes each and every human within the community.

A wealth of evidence (reference: “The Myth of Normal,” Gabor Maté, MD; “The Body Keeps the Score.” Bessel van der Kolk, MD; “Trauma and Recovery,” Judith Herman, MD) shows that early recognition of sexual and other forms of interpersonal violence coupled with ac-

Advance election poll workers surprised with gif t of Easter turkey dinner from residents

donuts to enjoy and a lunch another day.

The best was a full course turkey supper arriving on Monday night, when we all were extremely tired, from four 12hour plus days of working.

This special delivery was made by Alana and Kevin Squair. What a wonderful and unexpected act of kindness and was truly enjoyed by all.

Thanks for your generosity and sharing your family meal with us. It was so very appreciated and the turkey was delicious!

Yes, the Viking area really does have some truly wonderful residents!

Dawn

Hodgins Information Officer Viking, AB

Reader: Consider Community this May

tive, positive, strong, unashamed support by the community of the person harmed dramatically improves the possibility for that person to heal more quickly with reduced long-term negative impacts. Those negative impacts include traumatic stress, chronic disabilities, self harm and other debilitating outcomes.

Each of us can and should be accountable for the well-being of individuals harmed, or risking harm, in our community. How do we do that? We act on our accountability through direct and visible support, promoting awareness, education (in our homes, in our schools, in our press and throughout our community), sensitivity to those around us, openness among us and accepting inclusivity within our community.

We, the authors, personally experienced the positive outcomes of authentic community support by individuals

in our community when those people in our community became aware of the harm done by others. Read of one example of a true harm in “A Travesty of Justice and Community: A true story of a child in a small Alberta town”, Community Press, April 3, 2024 and one example of people in the community demonstrating authentic support in “A Parental Response to a Travesty of Justice and Community…”, Viking Review, April 17, 2024. We thank each of you who did take and continue to take action, from the depth of our spirit, for your very real and meaningful support. You are each and all a testament to the true difference a community does make to us, the harmed, when you visibly stand up to the perpetrators of violence and those who enable them.

Consider community this May.

Thank you, Willow and Noël Thompson Flagstaff and Beaver Counties

Kari Janzen

Hit-and-run incident reported in Viking

On April 21, police received a request to conduct a wellbeing check on an individual who resides at a rural location near Viking. Police attended the location that was provided and spoke to the subject.

Police learned the subject had recently changed her phone number and forgot to update the complainant. The complainant was updated.

On April 22, police received a complaint of a hit and run. The complainant advised that her vehicle was parked at various locations in Viking. At one of the locations her vehicle was struck by an unknown vehicle.

Damage to the vehicle was under $5,000, a damage sticker and file number were provided for insurance purposes.

That afternoon, police assisted with the retrieval of property. The complainant advised he had a court order stating he could attend the property with police to retrieve his personal property.

Members and the complainant attended, and the property was retrieved with no issues.

On April 23, police responded to a complaint of assault southwest of Viking. When members arrived on scene all parties were spoken to and learned that an altercation had occurred between two of the occupants.

The suspect threw alcohol and a can at the victim. The victim was spoken to, who advised she did not want to provide a statement or lay any charges against the suspect. All the subjects were separated for the night.

In the early morning hours of April 24, police responded to a complaint of an attempted suicide. The complainant advised a 23-year-old female had consumed several antidepressant pills.

The subjects in question were located on Highway

around. Members attended the location and located the vehicle. A check was completed and the registered owner was contacted. The owner stated he parked the vehicle there to move his farm equipment around. The complainant was updated.

26 south of Viking. The female was spoken to and observed to be conscious and able to stay focused. The female stated that she spit out most of the pills, and was unsure how many she had actually swallowed.

EMS attended and transported the female to the hospital for further assessment. Several resources were provided to the subject.

That same morning, police responded to a suspicious vehicle parked in the parking lot of a business adjacent to the highway. The vehicle was located and members spoke with the occupant. He advised he was just resting before continuing on with his trip.

Later that morning, police received a complaint of a vehicle in the ditch south of Viking. It was determined the vehicle was involved in a complaint from earlier in the morning.

That same morning, police received a complaint of a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed near Kinsella. Members were unable to locate the vehicle.

That afternoon, police received a complaint of an erratic driver on Highway 26. The complainant advised a small black car was going in and out of traffic and cutting people off. Members made patrols on the highway and were unable to locate the vehicle.

On April 26, police received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle parked in front of a residence in Viking. Members attended the location, the vehicle was located parked legally; the licence plate and VIN number matched the vehicle. The registered owner was from Viking, nothing suspicious was noted.

On April 27, police received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle parked in a field with no one

their property and vehicles by removing keys and keeping things locked up.

Don’t be an easy target for thieves, the few extra minutes it takes could save you hours and a headache down the road!

As spring has finally arrived and farming will be in full swing soon, police would like to remind farmers in the area to take precautions with

Members and staff of the Viking RCMP would like to thank everyone who participated in our 3on-3 hockey tournament. The kids dominated the final game against the police!

Viking RCMP

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Viking Council won’t support regional water steering committee

Patricia Harcourt Editor

The Town of Viking has declined to support the formation of a regional water steering committee.

Mayor James Buttner pointed out that “not all (councils) have accepted this,” adding: “Council needs to review this.”

The mayor also stated he has struggled with this over the past three years.

“I think it will only antagonize the situation,” referring to this initiative being spearheaded by the Beaver Regional Partnership, BRP. The BRP is made up of chief administrative officers of each municipality in the

Beaver Region, and wants to establish this regional water steering committee to coordinate water needs in the region.

The Highway 14 Regional Services Commission delivers water to all communities along Highway 14 in Beaver County including Viking.

Members of Viking Council did not think the BRP had the jurisdiction to be telling entities like the commission how to handle their water issues.

“Councils have no say in how a board is run,” noted Councillor Dana Ewashko, referring to the Commission.

The Beaver Regional Partnership (BRP) can make requests, he said,

“but they cannot tell them what to do.”

Ewashko also said he could not understand why BRP meetings are held in (closed) session so often and felt they should be more open and transparent.

The proposed Regional Water Steering Committee was introduced to council by CAO Doug Lefsrud, who sits on the BRP as the town’s CAO.

Administration was requesting that council review the committee’s terms of reference and support the establishment of a regional water steering committee by adopting those terms of reference.

“There has been an ini-

tiative to establish a Regional Water Steering Committee to provide strategic guidance, technical oversight and regional coordination on potable and non potable water infrastructure planning across Beaver County and its member municipalities,” explained CAO Lefsrud in his report at council’s April 22 meeting.

The committee was being formed, he added, “to ensure regional alignment in infrastructure development. Funding applications and longterm water security planning,” were also to be done with this new steering committee.

“The committee thinks

Legislature stands with Filipino Canadians after tragedy

George Lee Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Both sides of the Alberta legislature rose to support Canada’s Filipino community Monday, as the nation struggled to process a tragedy that marred a Vancouver cultural festival.

Standing ovations followed UCP and NDP words of comfort, grief and condemnation, after a motor vehicle plowed into a Lapu-Lapu Day festival Saturday and killed 11 people. At least 17 others were injured, some of them seriously or critically.

“What should have been a joyful celebration of Filipino culture and heritage ended in the unthinkable act of violence that has left families shattered, communities grieving and our nation in mourning,” said Jacqueline Lovely, the UCP member for Camrose.

Added Lizette Tejada, the NDP member for Calgary-Klein: “We all grieve with Filipino Canadians as they navigate the unimaginable loss of beloved community members and contend with the injuries and trauma resulting from this violent attack.”

Police have so far charged a 30-year-old man with eight counts of second-degree murder, after a black SUV tore into

the street festival. More charges against the man are likely.

Lapu-Lapu Day honours Datu Lapu-Lapu, the Filipino chieftain who became a national hero for defeating Spanish forces led by Ferdinand Magellan in the Battle of Mactan in 1521.

About a million people or 2.5 per cent of Canada’s

population were of Filipino descent in 2021, according to Census Canada, making them the third largest Asian ethnic grouping in the country. About 3.5 per cent B.C.’s population and more than five per cent of Alberta’s were part of the community.

Lovely praised Filipino Canadians for “kindness,

resilience and remarkable contributions to our society.”

Filipino Canadians “are our neighbours, our colleagues and our friends. In every corner of our province Filipino Canadians have helped build stronger, more vibrant communities through their hard work, generosity and spirit of service.”

it can tell the Water Commission what to do but they can’t,” said Ewashko, who previously sat on the commission as a town representative.

“That’s what council is for not the steering committee,” he said.

CAO Lefsrud said a response has been requested from each municipality, adding that the committee “could get along without Viking.”

Mayor Buttner said he “hates to do things this way,” asking CAO Lefsrud if he had any other input to give or if council was placing him “in an awkward position.”

The CAO said Viking “has done a good job with the raw water,” referring to last year’s project to give agricultural producers non potable water to spray crops with rather than using up potable water.

Buttner stated that, while he is “100 per cent on board for collaboration and communication,” he didn’t feel right about this particular initiative.

“I think the intent is right but the action is wrong,” he said, adding he wished to “quash” the initiative.

BRP holds meetings in session, then CAOs have to take it back to their councils to relate what happened, also in session, and the process takes three weeks, he said. For that reason, he did not favour the BRP either.

A motion by Ewashko that the town not be part of the BRP proposed regional water steering committee was passed by council.

So being on the committee “could be a bonus to us,” he explained, to “stand up for the town on the committee.”

Kinsella Rose Seniors Club news and notes

Evelyn Lang Club Reporter

Welcome to spring and the outdoors.

The Kinsella Seniors Club has been busy with Invitational and Alberta Floor Curling Association (AFCA) bonspiels for the past while. There were teams going to a number Invitational bonspiels and two teams were entered in eight AFCA bonspiels. Some games there were winners and

Vialta Chatter

Marion R. Cottrell

We have not had any April showers to speak of but I am trusting that will not prevent the May flowers from emerging! I believe we are all more than ready to welcome Spring 2025!

I hope many residents took advantage of the ‘Sidewalk Strolls’ scheduled in April. There are a few more planned for May. Such a lovely way to enjoy the outdoors with friends. All of these begin at 10 a.m.

The first one is Monday, May 5, then Friday, May 9, Friday, May 16, and Monday, May 26. If the weather cooperates, please join in.

Four Fridays this month have scheduled for singa-longs at 10:30 a.m. to be held May 2, May 9, May 23, and the 30th. Friday the 16th will be a virtual sing-a-long. Music always helps to lift one’s spirits so come on out and sing-a-long!

On Tuesday, May 6 at 1:30 p.m. “Vialta’s talent” will once again have a showcase opportunity. Don’t be shy, sign up and take part.

On Monday, May 12 at 1:30 p.m. Central Singers will be present.

On Thursday, May 15 Bob Williams will be entertaining. Come along and show your appreciation for wonderful talent being shared with the residents.

On Tuesday, May 20 at 9:30 a.m. a trip to the greenhouse is scheduled. This is an opportunity to purchase the beautiful flowers which will grace the flower beds and pots on Vialta’s property all summer long.

Once residents return from that field trip, they can wash-up really well because from 1 to 3 p.m. that same afternoon, Alberta Clothing will be set up in the Atrium for your shopping pleasure. Great chance to shop without leaving home !

At 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27, ice cream floats will be served in the gazebo. Let’s hope it is a really warm day so we can appreciate those floats to the fullest.

There are three birthdays to announce in May: Catherina Veenstra on May 2 and Emily Lefsrud on May 24.

On May 10 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Vialta Lodge activity room, a special celebration is planned for Evelyn Soleski’s 90th birthday. Congratulations on reaching such a significant milestone, Evelyn.

Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Judy Andreson who passed away on April 21. She will always be remembered for her wonderful sense of humour and quick wit. She will be missed by many, many people. God’s blessings and comfort to each one.

Vialta Lodge Spring raffle is coming up. Tickets will be available this month at $2 per ticket. Raffle prizes are a quilt, garden basket, and games basket. The raffle draw will be made on June 6.

You may contact any resident to purchase tickets as they will all be involved in promoting this raffle. Happy Spring and stay safe.

some came home not so successful. But they were enjoyed by all players.

The social floor curling in Kinsella on Tuesday afternoons is going well and being enjoyed by those in attendance.

The Kinsella Club held an AFCA bonspiel in Kinsella on April 7, which was well attended with 16 teams in attendance.

Our Team Ron placed fourth. We hold two AFCA bonspiels a year and have had Food with

Flair cater to the noon meal. The members provide coffee and snacks for the morning and afternoon snack.

A couple of members have refurbished a set of our rocks and are quite happy with the results, so are going to refurbish the other sets over the summer.

There are a few more bonspiels to attend in May, along with the playoffs in Tofield on May 15 and championships on May 30 and

31 at South East Edmonton Senior Association (SEESA).

There was an Invitational Ladies’ Bonspiel in Daysland on April 24 with a team going. They managed to lose two and win one but the day was very much enjoyed by the ladies. There is also an Invitational Ladies bonspiel to go to May 22 in Bawlf.

We held an AGM after our regular meeting in March with not much

change to the club executive.

President is Bob Cormack, Treasurer is Glen Wood, Secretary is Evelyn Lang, Historian is Sharon Minchau, and any other committees are all the members helping. We are happy to welcome four new members to our club and being very active in the club. Our club is always open to new members or visitors to our meetings. Until next time, take care.

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

BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP

BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

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

September & October Open by appointment only

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 November

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB

The Beaver County Chronicle

Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County

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

Wednesday, November , 2023, Volume 16, Issue 46

WednesdayFebruary162022Volume15Issue7

Wednesday, April 30, 2025, Volume 18, Issue 17

Council will no longer hire its CPOs

Administration to hire and also replace

Patricia Harcourt Editor

A new bylaw means the chief administrative officer will replace county council when it comes to hiring community peace officers.

A committee to hear complaints and adjudicate them concerning CPOs has been eliminated. In its place, complaints will be handled by the employee’s immediate supervisor.

Deborah Juch, General Manager of Community and Protective Services for Beaver County, presented county council with a new Bylaw #251167, called the Bylaw Enforcement Officer bylaw at council’s April 16 regular meeting.

The new bylaw replaces the former Bylaw #02832 which “provides for the appointment and discipline of bylaw enforcement officers,” said Juch.

She added that administration was recommending changes to the bylaw for several reasons.

“The bylaw is inefficient and restrictive in that council’s approval is required to appoint officers,” she said, resulting in “a delay in enforcement services” as there is only one council meeting per month.

And, as employees of the county, she said the

disciplinary board hearings

county’s chief administrative officer was a “more appropriate” person to hire such officers.

Zuch also stated that the older bylaw contains a clause about having a bylaw enforcement committee to oversee complaints about officers, which she said “has never been used.

“Moreover, complaints against county employees should be heard by the employee’s supervisor or the chief administrative officer as provided in human resource policies,” she said.

A further inconsistency was that the county has an investigation and discipline process for other county employees, but the older bylaw has officer complaints handled through a formal hearing process.

“Determining the validity of a complaint and any disciplinary action required is better aligned with that of other county employees,” she stated, through action such as verbal reprimands, suspensions, or termination of employment.

The newly proposed bylaw highlights included the CAO appointing both the chief bylaw enforcement officer and the bylaw enforcement officers, a task formerly requiring council approval.

Other changes in the new bylaw include the CAO determining the scope of these employees’ duties, which in general terms would include

response to investigation and enforcement of county bylaws and educating the public concerning the bylaws.

Also, the new bylaw includes an expansion of the examples provided for misuse of power. Additional misuse of power by an enforcement officer would include actions in contravention of any legislation, discriminatory behaviour, and use of excessive force.

The 2025 bylaw will have the chief bylaw enforcement officer investigate and determine the validity of allegations of misuse of power by a bylaw enforcement officer.

A similar kind of investigation regarding the chief bylaw enforcement officer would be handled by the CAO.

And resulting disciplinary action would be imposed by the employee’s supervisor.

Council had no discussion at the regular meeting concerning the new bylaw, which had previously already been given first reading.

Councillor Lionel Williams (Division 2) made a motion for second reading, and Councillor Dale Pederso (Division 5) made another for third reading, both of which passed.

The new Bylaw Enforcement Officer #25-1167 bylaw has now been enacted and replaces the previous bylaw.

County gets ‘gold standard’ review for clean audit of finances

Patricia Harcourt

Beaver County received its 2024 audited financial statements as presented by MNP LLP at the April 16 regular meeting of council.

“The good news is there are no issues,” announced Benji Waser, CAP, CA, CFM of MNP LLP, adding that a “clean audit opinion” is the gold standard for audits and represents a “snapshot” of the year-end financials.

The report opinion on the audit stated: “In our opinion the accompanying consolidated finan-

cial statements present fairly, in all material aspects the consolidated financial position of the County as of December 31, 2024, and the results of its consolidated operations, changes in the financial assets and its cash flow for the year then ended in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards.”

Beaver County has its audited financial statements posted on its website at beaver.ab.ca where it states: “We are pleased to share that we received a clean audit for the 2024 financial year.”

Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) questioned the six per cent rise in staff vacation and overtime over the previous year in the report.

Chief Administrative Officer Kayleena Spiess replied that, “New staff are allowed to accrue....” adding, “We are still within the policy.”

After hearing the results of the second document of the report, Hrabec made the motion to accept the auditor’s financial report, which council passed.

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IMPORTANTDATES

April30

7PM-SpecialCouncilMeetingatRyleyCommunityCentre,for: PublicHearing-CommunityStandardsBylaw MillRateBylaw-3Reading rd

May7

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

9:30AM-4:00PM-RegularCouncilMeeting

WHATSHAPPENINGINOURCOMMUNITY

BookClub

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

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

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

CommunityStandardsBylawHearing BeaverCountywillbeholdingapublichearingtogiveresidentsan opportunitytoprovideinputontheproposedCommunityStandards Bylaw.ThepurposeofthisBylawistosetstandardsforcommunitysafety, residentialpropertymaintenanceanduse,protectpublicspaces,prevent disputesbetweenneighboursbyprovidingguidanceonissuesthataffect relationshipsbetweenneighbours,establishfinesforcontraventionsofthe Bylaw,andenableenforcementofcontraventionsoftheBylaw. TheproposedbylawcanbeviewedbeloworobtainedattheBeaver CountyOffice(5120–50Street,Ryley)orontheCounty’swebsiteunderthe Newssectionatwww.beaver.ab.ca.

Detailsofthepublichearingareasfollows:

Date: Wednesday,April30,2025

Time: 7:00p.m.

Location: RyleyCommunityCentre,5102-49St,Ryley

Contact: MargaretJones-780-663-3730ext.1016or mjones@beaver.ab.ca

ToSpeakorsubmitwrittencomments: Thedeadlinetospeak/submit writtencommentshaspassed. Writtensubmissionswillnotbe acceptedduringthepublichearing.

WhatIfawildfirewasheadingyourway,wouldyoubeready toleaveinahurry?You might befine,butwhatifyou'renot?

May4-10isEmergencyPreparednessweek.

Takeafewminutesinthenextweektoprepare:

Makeachecklistofessentialsandpostitonyourfridge, and/or Packabasicemergencykitnow,andincludeachecklist forlast-minutegrabslikeprescriptionmedicationsand importantdocuments.

Otherthingstothinkabout:

Doyouhavelivestock?Whataboutthem? Doesyourvehiclehavefuelinit? Whatrouteareyoutaking? Beingpreparedmeanslesspanicandmorepeaceofmind.

Visitwww.getprepared.caformoreresourcestohelpyou andyourfamilyprepareforalltypesofemergencies.

CementLocations

Constructedinthefollowingphases: Phase1(Cement),Phase2(Chip Seal-1stLift),Phase3(ChipSeal-2ndlift) Phase4(Finalsweep ofChips)

KingswayEstates May12 May16

RgeRd202betweenTwp502&504 May19 May30 NorthBeaverCreekEstates50514RgeRd

CONSTRUCTIONSEASONIS COMING,PLEASE REMEMBER...

Constructionworkers havefamilies,friends, andlives.Please respecttheposted speedlimitsin constructionzones toensurethey canreturn home safely.

NATIONALVOLUNTEERWEEK

Mailinglist

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

Website InformationonCountyprogramsandservicescan befoundonourwebsite,alongwiththelatestnews.

April27-May3,2025.Thisyearsthemeis: VolunteersMakeWaves. Ithighlightsthepower,impactandimportanceofindividualandcollectivevolunteereffortsacross Canada.Likeawave,volunteeringismovementbuilding.VolunteerWeekisatimetocelebratethe dedicationandcontributionsofvolunteerswhomakeadifferenceinourcommunities.Recognizing theireffortsshowsappreciationandraisesawarenessaboutthepowerofcontribution.Volunteering inspiresotherstogetinvolvedandfostersacultureofgenerosityandconnection.

County adopts 10-year Hard Surfacing Road plan

Patricia Harcourt

A new integrated road management strategy was adopted by Beaver County Council April 16.

This is a 10-year strategy for the hard surfacing of roads in the county, which was presented by Dan Blackie, General Manager of Infrastructure.

“Administration has developed a long-term framework to maintain, upgrade, and expand its hard-surfaced road network,” said Blackie.

“The strategy aims to enhance road resilience, cost efficiency, safety, and accessibility over the next decade,” he explained.

He also outlined criteria used in selecting roads during this period: “The roads selected for resurfacing in the 10-year plan are chosen based on several key factors including: connectivity to highways and major corridors, safety considerations, population density, public input, and internal expertise.”

Council was provided with a list of roads and how many miles for each of the 10 years. For instance, the 2025 Plan calls for 15 miles of hard surfacing to take place this year alone.

“To ensure roadways are properly prepared for hard surfacing, the year preceding the scheduled surfacing work will be dedicated to pre-construction activities,” he told council. “This includes replacing culverts, performing shoulder pulls where necessary, and addressing any deficiencies to establish a stable foundation for the resurfacing process.”

To implement the strategy, Blackie also said that administration would be responsible for coordinating first calls and doing the oversight.

Field operations will require a grader operator, three packers, a reclaimer operator, and mechanical maintenance support.

“Ensuring adequate staffing and source allocation will be crucial for maintaining project timelines and quality standards,” he said.

Financial implications were also given for the 10year project.

Final estimated costs are to be covered through a combination of grants, the Claystone Waste Dividend, and annual provisions from the county budget.

The projected cost for Portland Cement Stabilization is estimated at $280,000 per mile.

Blackie also said that the Municipal Government Act makes provisions for funding options that include the county imposing a special tax or a local improvement tax, which requires a bylaw to enforce.

“The special tax bylaw must be considered by council separately each year,” he said.

“The local improvement tax requires that a local improvement plan be prepared.” Plus, affected property owners must be notified and given the opportunity to petition against this move.

In his report introduction, it states that: “Beaver County recognizes that a strong, well-maintained

road network is vital for ensuring safe, efficient travel for both residents and the commuting public. Roads not only support daily life but are crucial for economic development, emergency services and the overall quality of life within the county.”

The county currently has 70 miles of roads stabilized with Portland cement including 15 miles in Division 1, 14 miles in Division 2, 21 miles in Division 3, three miles in Division 4, and 17 miles in Division 5.

These road foundations “allow the county to focus on long-term improvements ensuring safe, reliable travel across all divisions,” stated the report.

After a motion by Councillor Barry Bruce (Division 4) to accept the new 10-year hard surface road plan, Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) referred to “inequities” regarding the distribution of Terracem.

Still, Hrabec said he would support the motion, even if he didn’t agree with it,“because we need a plan.”

The motion to adopt the 10-year plan was then passed by council.

The plan “outlines priorities for future projects balancing immediate needs with sustainable development,” said the report.

“It represents Beaver County’s proactive planning and investment in the community infrastructure,” concludes the report.

Continued from Front

where you live, no matter what language you speak, no matter how you voted, I will always do my best to represent everyone who calls Canada home.”

The 2025 Canadian Federal Election was one for the record books, as the Conservative Party and Liberal Party both made gains, mostly at the expense of the NDP, who have lost official party status, having fallen short of the 12-MP minimum in the house.

Despite being unable to top the Liberals, the Conservatives gained 25 seats in the house from 2021 with 144. The Liberal Party gained nine seats from 2021 with 169. The Bloc Québécois lost 10 seats, the NDP lost 18 seats, and the Green Party lost one seat.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh both lost in their ridings, which is likely to bring about new faces and changes in leadership going forward. Bloc leader Yves-François Blanchet was re-elected in his riding as was Elizabeth May, the sole Green Party candidate in all of Canada to be elected.

As of Tuesday afternoon, without all ballots being as yet counted, the number of votes cast nation-wide was already up well over 2,000,000 from the previous federal election.

With threats of annexation and increased tariffs from US President Donald Trump, voter engagement was expected to be high. Advanced voting in particular saw large increases in most ridings.

In fact, we’ve been serving rural Alberta communities for 75 years. Our credit union launched in 1950 with $128, 21 members and a mission to help our neighbours and our communities. It’s still our mission today. That’s why we return 75% of Vision’s profits to our members, why we provide full-service banking in underserved rural communities, and why we make contributing to charitable causes in our hometowns a priority. Learn how Vision supports our members and our communities.

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

COMING EVENTS

The Lougheed Fair is looking for Volunteers for Food Booths, Cattle Show, or any area volunteers choose. Please contact Iris at 780-385-0752 or Stacey at 780-385-4703. Exhibitor Books will soon be in a store near you!

The Viking Historical Society annual cleanup at the Viking Museum will take place on May 3/25, beginning at 10 a.m. If it is raining or too blustery, we will postpone until May 10. Bring gloves, rakes, etc. Lunch will be provided. Everyone welcome.

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

ANNUAL SPRING CEMETERY AND HALL CLEAN UP

ST. JOHN NEPOMUCENE CEMETERY - PRAGUE

PRAGUE COMMUNITY HALL

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 6:30 PM Beverages and snack to follow

COMING EVENTS

Flagstaff Family Day Homes

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday, May 6th, 2025 6:30 pm

At the FFCS Building 4809-49th Avenue Killam, Alberta

Viking Healthcare Auxiliary is holding 3RD ANNUAL SPRING STRAWBERRY TEA

Thursday, May 22, 2025 From 2 to 5 pm

At Viking Legion Hall $5.00 tea, cake, Strawberries

Time for Tea with the Bride to Be Please join us to celebrate Chelsey Teers, bride elect of Landon Bechthold . Saturday, May 10th @ The Lougheed Senior's Centre from 1-4 pm. Chelsey is registered at myregistry.com

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

COMING EVENTS

PRAGUE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

ANNUAL GENERAL HALL MEETING

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

ANNUAL MASS - BLESSING OF THE GRAVES MASS IN PRAGUE COMMUNITY HALL

Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 11 AM

Potluck lunch and fellowship to follow

M.A.I.D.

Medical Assistance in Dying Information Session

Presenter: Rachel Coventry Palliative Care Resource Nurse Alberta Health Services Monday, May 5 at 10:30 a.m. Heisler Senior’s Club Main Street, Heisler Lunch Provided Pre-Register by April 30 Mariann Wolbeck 780-889-2243 Kathy Kuntz 403-318-6634

The Lougheed Ag Society is accepting Applications for 2025 Recreation Grants DEADLINE IS May 7, 2025 at 5 p.m. Send Applications to: Lougheed Ag Society PO Box 305 Lougheed, AB T0B 2V0 Eligible applicants need to comply with Rec Grant as requested by Flagstaff County. For further information and to see therequirements, check out the Flagstaff County website.

COMING EVENTS

Birdhouse Building! Bring your kids/grandkids and make a beautiful home for a flying friend. All supplies and instructions provided. Sunday, May 4 at the Sedgewick United Church at 10 am. Register at 780-385-5856

FUNDRAISER

Chemo Care Hydration Packages. $55 buys one and Sonya donates one. Includes: Night Cream, Lip Balm and Foot Lotion. The goal is 300 pkgs by June 30. See Sonya Martens at the Tofield Market Friday, May 9th & 23rd. www.MaryKay.ca/smartens or call 780-240-4605.

FOR SALE

Apple trees (nine varieties) and Pear Trees (three varieties) for sale until April 30 only. Call Brian at 780-6780053 to arrange viewing or pickup.

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. 403820-0961. Quality guaranteed.

GARAGE SALE

Two Seniors continuing to downsize. Elna sewing machine in beautiful wooden cabinet, large L-shaped twotiered glass-topped desk. Three-drawer bureau, indoor fluorescent grow lamp, carpet cleaner, food dehydrators, Mehu-Liisa Juice Extractor. Unique salt and pepper collection, electric snow thrower, CD's, rolling plastic cabinets, canning supplies, miscellaneous golf goodies, plus tools and other miscellaneous items.

#20 Canary Crescent, Sedgewick. Friday, May 2 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, May 3 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Garage Sale

May 3 & 4, 2025

5520 43 St, Lamont, AB. 9 am - 3 pm, weather permitting. Coffee table, reclining couch, planer, lots of puzzles & more.

Estate & Garage Sale

4701-51 Ave Sedgewick

Friday, May 2 12-7 Saturday, May 3 10-7 Sunday, May 4 10-3 Wide selection of household goods, vintage/antique items, sporting goods, small appliances, extensive costume jewellery collection, succulents

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

GARAGE SALE

Moving Out/Household Sale

Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Lots of Sewing Items, Fabric, Household, Etc. 16 McLean Cresent Sedgewick

Multi-family Garage Sale May 1-3. Thursday/Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 to 5:30 p.m. 14365 TWP 444, look for signs on Hiway 13 between Strome & Killam. Lots of items including household, camping, lawn and garden, toys, books, etc.

BUILDINGS FOR SALE

Integrity Post Frame Buildings since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-9747678 integritybuilt.com.

SEED FOR SALE

FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & Conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.

BARLEY – *NEW-AB Standswell* Smooth AWN, High Yielding, Grain and Forage Great Lodging Resistance. 1st NITROGEN USE EFFICIENT CEREAL IN CANADA. 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; 403-5562609.

FOR RENT

2 Bedroom, large, clean, non-smoking suite in Killam. Available June 1. Call Chuck at 780-263-7290

2+2 bedroom farmhouse north of Killam. Call Deanna @ 403 783 5347 for details.

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. 1-844-453-5372.

SERVICES

Painting

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

CLUES

SERVICES

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

General Contractor

Red Seal Journeyman Plumber and Gasfitter. Bathroom Renos & Tile

New to the Area.

30 plus Years of Experience. Dave 403-999-8464

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

ACROSS

1. Racquet sports association

4. Places to sleep

8. Native American tribe

10. Small platforms

11. Egg shape

12. Running out

13. French painter

15. Some are “of the Caribbean”

16. Painful intestinal problem

17. More irritated

18. Prove yourself

21. Catch

22. Supplement with difficulty

23. American automotive giant

CLUES DOWN

1. Consisting of uncombined atoms

2. Island country

3. Heavenly body

4. Caribbean island

5. Copyread

6. A place to eat

7. Drops down

9. Native group of Alaska

10. Engage in

12. “Desperate Housewives” lane 14. Thyroid-stimulating hormone

15. Foot (Latin)

17. A place to bathe

19. Animosities

20. Partner to cheese

24. Form of “to be”

25. Boxing’s GOAT

26. Peyton's little brother

27. Eli’s big brother

34. Capable of producing

35. Reproductive structures in fungi

36. Allowed to go forward

37. Smiles

38. Arteries

39. VVV

40. Win a series without losing a game

41. This (Spanish)

42. Opposites of beginnings

43. Germanic mythological god

23. Venus __, plant 24. A donation

25. Pokes holes in the ground

26. Midway between northeast and east

27. Looked into

28. Not young

29. Annoy constantly

30. Something one can strike

31. Most glacial

32. Ten less than one hundred

33. Idle talker

34. Has moved through the air

36. Container for shipping

Mike Ewashko

On Wednesday, April 23, 2025 Mike passed away in Viking Health Centre, with family by his side at the age of 93. One month shy of his 94th Birthday.

Mike is survived by his sons Dana (Lorna) of Viking, AB and Mark (Loriann) of Innisfree, AB, Granddaughters Miranda (Graham) of Prince Albert, SK, Chantelle (Shane) of Vegreville, AB and Reanne of Innisfree AB, Brothers Steve (Olga) of Edmonton, AB and Tony (Linda) of St. Albert, AB, Sister Nelsie Kotowich of Two Hills, AB, Sisterin-law Doris Ewashko of Prince Albert, SK, Brother and Sister-inlaw Dennis and Barb Miciak of Viking, AB,

and many nieces and nephews

Mike was predeceased by his wife Josephine, parents, mother and father in-law, and seven siblings

As per Mike’s wishes there will be a private service at a later date.

Mike’s family would like to thank Dr. Penny, Dr. Overbo and the staff at the Viking Health Centre for the excellent care given to Mike.

A special thank you to Dr. Overbo for the care, compassion, and guidance that was given to us to help us fulfill Mike’s wishes of staying in his own home.

Also, thank you to Becky and Lori of Vermillion Home Care for helping make that possible.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mazankowski Heart Institute, Edmonton, Alberta - U of A Hospital.

Viking Funeral Services 780-336-4842 vikingfuneralservices.ca

It is with great sadness that the family of Judy Andreson announces her peaceful passing, surrounded by loved ones, on April 21, 2025, at the age of 72 years.

Born and raised in Viking, Alberta, Judy was the second of four children born to Garnet (Tye) and Betty Hopfe. In 1976, she married the love of her life, Ken

Andreson, and together they raised their three children on an acreage near Kinsella.

For 35 years, Judy served her community as a devoted and compassionate nurse at the Viking Hospital. Her caring spirit and deep friendships extended well beyond her years of service.

In retirement, she continued to give back by volunteering at the Viking New to You organization.

Known for her cheerful nature, quick wit and playful sense of humor, Judy brought joy and laughter wherever she

went. She never met a stranger, only friends she hadn’t talked to yet. She was the heart and soul of our family and will be remembered always with love and gratitude.

She leaves behind her devoted husband Ken, her beloved children David (Dana), Dean (Jenifer), and Shelli (Jay), her sisters Pat and Joan, and her dear friend Ev. She also leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter in her seven grandchildren and two greatgranddaughters; they were her pride and joy.

She was predeceased by her parents and her brother Rick.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the staff at the Vialta Lodge, the Home Care team, and everyone at the Viking Hospital for the loving care they provided to Judy.

A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at a later date with family and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alta-Vi Memorial Society (Box 780, Viking, Alberta, T0B 4N0), or a charity of one’s choice. Viking Funeral Services 780-336-4842

vikingfuneralservices.ca