January 17 Tofield Mercury

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Cold but beautiful scenes Page 6

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Volume 106 Issue 20

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Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Record cold snap rolls through Alberta Historic lows prompt alert from Alberta Electric System Operator Jana Semeniuk Staff Reporter

The recent cold snap has broken at least 38 records for low temperatures across the province including a new record for Camrose and area according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.

According to reports, Camrose recorded a temperature of -42.5C on Jan. 13, breaking the old record of -41C set in 1998. Records have been kept for Camrose weather since 1921.

Additionally, five of the communities on the list for record-breaking cold temperatures this past weekend, were on another list last month for record breaking high temperatures. Bow Island, Cardston, Crowsnest area, Medicine Hat and Milk River all had record highs in Dec. and now have recorded historic low temperatures on Jan. 13.

The freezing temperatures

did more than set records over the weekend, they also prompted an emergency alert from the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) appealing to Albertans to conserve electricity to ward off rotating power outages as the grid was under strain from the cold.

Temperatures dropped between -35 and -48.

AESO worked with the government to issue the alert at 3:30 p.m. which according to AESO, had an almost immediate effect. They saw a significant 100 MW drop in electricity demand, which amounted to a 200 MW reduction within minutes. The alert was lifted at 8:40 p.m.

“The province-wide response to the call for energy conservation was tremendous,” said Mike Law, President and CEO of the AESO on their website. “On behalf of the AESO, I would like to extend my thanks to all Albertans who responded to

On Thursday, January 11, a snowmobile was someone's choice for transportation during the cold and snowy weather.

LISA KUFLAY PHOTO

the call for action, which ensured we didn’t have to progress to rotating outages, keeping our grid up and running for all Albertans.”

In addition to Albertans responding to the call for action, so did the province of Sask. Just over 153 MW of power was provided to Al-

berta through SaskPower to help with the shortage. In a post on social media, Premier Scott Moe said the power was coming from their natural gas and coalfired power plants.

“That power will be coming from natural gas and coal-fired plants, the ones

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Page 2 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Former charter school Extreme temperatures principal back on staff cancel area school buses Jana Semeniuk Staff Reporter

Brian Dewar, first principal of Alberta’s first rural charter high school, Holden Rural Academy, is back on staff after retiring from his position in Sept. due to health issues.

Dewar, 75, came back in early Jan. part-time as a work experience/career counsellor.

“I'm back looking after the work experience, I'm looking after all the kids that are out in the community,” he said. “I'm happy to be back. The kids make my life so fantastic.”

Current principal Brent Anderson said he’s also happy to have Dewar back at the school.

“Its fantastic first of all.

Our junior high grew more than expected (this year),” said Anderson.

“We needed one person who could be devoted to overseeing the jobsite inspections and overseeing the work experience.”

Dewar said he will not be short of things to do at HRA. He said the school has so far added approximately 16 new worksites for their place-based approach to education where students are paired up with participating businesses in and around the community, and more are waiting.

“When I got back (to the school), there were guys waiting in the wings,” said Dewar, who added that part of his role is vetting the businesses involved in the program

which includes businesses from Tofield, Lindbrook, Vegreville and Mundare.

In terms of Dewar’s previous health concerns, he said things have ironed out and he’s feeling better.

Dewar said he will be at the school at least until the end of June this year.

Brian Dewar

Camrose County

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Kari Janzen

Staff Reporter

This past week students who take the bus to school received an extra long weekend, Thursday to Monday, as buses in the area were cancelled because of the extreme temperatures.

Battle River School Division cancelled all division buses due to extreme weather on school days including Thursday, Jan. 11 through to Monday, Jan. 15. Just before 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 10, the division’s social media page posted saying that buses would run Thursday, although if temperatures dropped below -40 during the

school day, no transportation would be available for afternoon drop offs.

“BRSD strives to provide safe transportation for all of our students, and during this extreme cold, it is important for us to follow our inclement weather procedure and do the best we can in the conditions.

“After careful consideration and thorough discussion, the Battle River School Division has announced that buses will operate tomorrow morning (Thursday, January 11, 2024), provided the local temperature remains above -40. However, please be aware that if the temperature drops below -40 during the

morning, the buses will be cancelled, and there will be no transportation for students at the noon dismissal,” the post said.

The next morning at 6:45 a.m. it was announced no buses in the division were running Thursday.

“Due to the extreme cold and temperatures of -40 or lower, all BRSD school buses will be cancelled for today, January 11, 2024.”

Similar messages were posted on social media for Friday and Monday.

Holden Rural Academy buses were also cancelled on the operating days between Jan. 11 and Jan. 15.

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - Page 3

School principals give exciting updates to local Chamber of Commerce Jana Semeniuk Staff Reporter

Three local principals presented updates on their schools to the Tofield and District Chamber of Commerce Jan. 10 during the group’s monthly meeting.

Chamber president Greg Litwin said the Chamber was not just for local businesses but also organizations.

“With the chamber, it's not just businesses, it's organizations and non-charitable organizations. So this Chamber is a nice blend, where some other ones are only business orientated, (in) this one, organizations make up a huge part of this chamber,” said Litwin. “A big part of that is our education.”

Zenovia Lazaruik, principal at Tofield School, grades five to 12, was the first to present and said her school is currently sitting at 452 students, including 20 students who use the North Star (outreach) program, and 63 who use both North Star and Tofield School. She said changes this year meant the North Star program has been moved into Tofield School from the arena, in addition to other changes.

“The other change that we've made for this year is that we have middle school from grade five to eight. And then we have high school nine to 12,” she said adding it made the biggest difference to the grade seven and eight students. “It used to be (that way) years and years ago. And we've gone back to that. We just felt that our sevens and eights kind of were a little lost. Instead of having eight different teachers now

they only have four and it makes a difference when you have less change from period to period.”

Lazaruik said the school is also working to build up their work X and RAP (registered apprenticeship program).

She said Mr. Chanasyk, the new assistant principal, has taken over that program. In keeping with supporting students into the trades, Lazazruik said they have added a class in basic automotives.

“I want to thank FXD for supplying us with a used motor that we have, that our students are using right now to change oil and learn about spark plugs and how to change them and all this kind of basic stuff,” she said. Lazaruik said other new programs include photography, and cosmetology. “(We have) a red seal, licensed hairstylist. And she is working to build our program to have a full-fledged salon that will be up and running next year,” she said.

Principal for CW Sears, pre-kindergarten to grade four, Adam Madsen, presented next and said his school has approximately 270 students this year including 18 in pre-kindergarten. Madsen said the school submitted an application for funding through Jordan’s Principal for the first time, which helps to support indigenous students.

“There's quite a number of different things that can be accessed through there. We accessed school supplies for one family, and psychological assessments for another family,” he said.

Madsen said the school’s new motto

is ‘We Make Wise Choices’, which signifies working hard, including others and showing respect. He said to help promote the new adage, the school has been giving awards and prizes to the students and are having assemblies every month to recognize outstanding students. He said they also had a contest for students to come up with a new logo for the school which was won by a grade four student who designed an owl logo.

Last to present was Ryley School principal Maria Shaade, who shared some highlights from the ‘small school with the big heart’. She said Ryley School, grades kindergarten to nine, has approximately 105 students. She added that recently the Ryley Preschool program moved into the school.

“This past fall, we also have a preschool program that started, so that's been really exciting,” she said, adding that the small class sizes ensure students get the attention they need. She said every student has their own Chromebook in addition to a daily complementary breakfast and lunch program as well as hot lunches. She said the school also offers a variety of courses including an exciting wood working class.

“For our students in grades six to nine, we offer complimentary courses in fine arts, foods and fashion leadership, outdoor education and woodworking,” she said. “We're especially very thrilled about our woodworking program because the teacher has his own wood Continued on Page 9

Ryley School Principal Maria Shaade presented school updates and news to the Tofield and District Chamber of Commerce at their monthly meeting Jan. 10.

Principals from Tofield School and CW Sears school also made presentations.

The winning logo, shown from Principal Adam Madsen's cell phone, from the logo contest at CW Sears School designed by a fourth-grade student. The logo promotes the school's new motto 'We Make Wise Choices'.

JANA SEMENIUK PHOTOS

Council Corner Chip in with snow removal and move vehicles to help Town Operations crew A new year is upon us, collectively we should reflect on the year that has passed and celebrate its successes, pause, and consider the challenges, and look to build momentum and positivity into 2024.

Although the winter was delayed in finding us, it certainly has come in with a force, bringing frigid temperatures and snow.

With the final arrival of significant snow, Mayor and Council would like to provide a friendly reminder to all residents, property owners as well as commercial business owners and operators. Snow is required to be cleared from walkways 24 hours following a snow fall.

In a community such as Tofield, with the volumes of foot traffic, this is paramount to ease of passage, as well as ensure the safety and wellbeing of those on foot. Truly, this is your obligation to have snow removed. If

this is not done, the enforcement procedures through our Contracted Peace Officer may be followed, which could result in having the property provided snow removal by a contractor at your cost.

This is not a process that we would like to see brought about, therefore, we are asking for continued diligence with snow removal, and would like to thank those for their efforts and hard work in having their properties continually maintained.

Also, in terms of snow removal, we would be remiss not to mention snow removal from our roadways. The Operations department will be performing work in having our roads cleared and done so in a very timely manner. Truly, our Operations Department provide a service unlike others and do what can only be termed as a “top notch” job.

However, for the crew to provide this

service to the community, there must be compliance in removing vehicles from the roadways. Signage is placed in advance to provide notice of removal routes. When vehicles are not moved, this provides a dangerous situation for equipment to try and navigate around parked vehicles and leaves an unfinished job.

Once again thank you to those that have and continue to work with us on this. To make our community the best it can be, it takes the efforts of all for this to happen.

On behalf of Council, a safe, happy, and healthy New Year to each of you. Mayor and Council look forward to the year ahead and the success it will bring. Also, collectively, we look forward to serving you, the electorate.

Respectfully, Mayor and Council

Page 4 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Tofield woman takes lead role in Churchmice production of Little Mermaid Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

Kate Down of Tofield has been cast as Ursula in the Churchmice Players’ February show, The Little Mermaid.

“My sister and I were Disney kids growing up and when we used to play pretend, she would have a handful of characters she loved, but I was always Ursula.

Of course, I jumped at the chance to live my childhood dream the second that Churchmice announced they would be doing The Little Mermaid,” Down said.

Some characters, including the part of Ursula, have been double cast. Down will be performing onstage in five of the 10 shows.

“There are a few roles in the show that are double cast, Ursula being one of them. I have had such a blast working with my counterpart and seeing the different things we bring to the role, and I’m excited to be behind the scenes in a supportive capacity even if I won’t be onstage,” said Down.

Acting has been part of Down’s life for many years, beginning in her early years.

“I was in drama or musical theatre in some form or another from a very young age, until the start of my 20s. I got my first adult job and had to leave those dream worlds behind, but it was always something I loved and missed,” she said.

“One day I found out that a bar in Camrose was hosting karaoke. I decided to take myself out completely as a fluke. It turned out to be the night after auditions for Churchmice’s Rock of Ages, and a group of those who had auditioned ended up going out together. They took a video of me singing to send to the director, and when I came off the stage they approached me and insisted I join them at the first rehearsal the following week. The rest, as they say, is history! I’ve been so incredibly grateful for that completely coincidental meet-cute and all of the amazing people it introduced me to,” said Down.

The Little Mermaid is Down’s second show with the Churchmice Players, the first being Rock of Ages. Down hasn’t had a lead role to the extent that the character of Ursula is in a while.

“I’m usually happy to have smaller roles, but this one is a dream I’m ecstatic to have come true,” she said.

When it comes to certain roles, Down loves to play the antagonist.

“Don’t get me wrong, I love a hero and there are so many protagonist roles I would love to bring to life, but a villain is so much more fun. There’s some-

thing so freeing about bringing a dark side into the light, and who doesn’t love a good evil cackle?”

Down said.

Down auditioned for the part of Ursula alongside four or five others, and was nervous knowing the talent she was up against.

“I knew there were a handful of people specifically interested in the part. Almost all of them were in Rock of Ages last year, so I knew I had big shoes to fill,” she said.

A role of any capacity has its challenges and Down says, for her, it’s waiting for opening night to arrive.

“I would say the biggest challenge has been keeping my own excitement in check. There are al-

ways challenges like learning lines, managing expectations, and figuring out what makes a character tick, but above everything else the hardest part for me is the anticipation. Though, knowing that we’re only a few short weeks out is certainly helping,” she said.

The part that Down has enjoyed the most about playing Ursula has been stepping into the character and doing her best to bring the sea witch to life.

“She’s tenacious, witty, confident, and a total powerhouse.

I’m most excited to channel all of that into myself, even if for only

a couple of hours at a time.”

“I am honoured to be a part of The Little Mermaid in any capacity, let alone as my all-time favourite villain. I hope that everyone who comes out to see us has even half as much fun as I’ve had watching it come together,” Down said.

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - Page 5

Tofield Curling Club hosts Doubles Bonspiel

The Tofield Curling club held an Open Doubles Bonspiel on the weekend, January 13 and 14. Twelve teams, mostly curlers from central Alberta, though some travelled from Calgary, came to curl despite the freezing cold temperatures. Pictured above are the A event winners Aiden Proctor and Morgan VanDoesburg, from Edmonton and Leduc.

The B event winners Tyler Schickerowsky and Jolene Wilkie from Bashaw.

Minor Hockey Report: four goal weekend for Fritz, Thorson, Klassen, Fleming of Tofield U15s Kerry Anderson These are some of the results from Minor Hockey League games held recently. (Please note that scores and scoring is taken from the websites, and some game scores and scoring is dependent on proper league entries.)

Tofield U11 Titans (152-0) beat Elk Island Wild 8-1 on Sunday at Tofield Arena. Titans scored six before Wild got on the scoreboard in the second frame led by Jenna Lungal’s four goal, six point game. Other scorers were; Shane Kyle (2g 1a), Max Jeffrey (3a), Quinn MacNeil (1g 1a), Kehgan McCabe (1g), Anthony MacNeil (1a), Chase Ferron (1a), and Hunter Jackson (1a). Logan Barmentloo was in goal for Tofield.

Tofield U11 5/6 Titans (12-5-1) won a 7-5 home game on Sunday against St. Paul. Titans came from behind three times in the game before finally taking the lead for good in the middle period. Finn Montgomery got a hat trick for Tofield, and Griffin Neufeld scored twice.

Asher Montgomery and Bentley Ruzycki also scored, while Degan Samson collected an as-

sist. Hayden Thom got the win in goal for Tofield.

Tofield U13 Titans (116-2) were scheduled to play at Redwater and Mallaig over the weekend but no scores were posted at deadline.

Tofield U15 Titans (8-84) shutout Lloydminster on Saturday 11-0, then on Sunday at Lamont Arena beat Lloydminster again 8-1. Scoring over the weekend for Tofield were; Merek Fritz (4g), Gabriel Thorson (4g 4a), Marshall McLeod (2g 1a), Avery Klassen (4g), Ben Fleming (4g 1a), Colton Munson (4a), Hunter Madro (2a), Karter Waldo (2a), Gavin Lutz (2a), Phenyx Ladwig (2a), Logan Suchy (1a), Steven Cardinal (1a), Logan Suchy (1a). David Cardinal got a shutout in game one, then stopped 21 in game two for a .976 save percentage weekend.

Emmytt Yurkowski got an assist on Saturday as his Sherwood Park U17 AAA Squires beat Lloydminster.

Landon Van Engelen picked up three assists as his Red Lake Miners beat Fort Frances on Friday 73 in Superior International Jr. Hockey League play.

Ty Yoder got a goal for the NAIT Ooks on Saturday in the team’s 7-2 loss to SAIT. Hudson Lungal got a goal and two assists for his Sherwood Park U15 AAA Flyers in their 6-2 win over Storm on Sunday.

Cale Helfrich scored a goal for his Strathcona U15 AA Warriors in their 3-1 win over Saints on Sunday.

The C event winners Aiden Berube and Cassidy Blair, from Red Deer and Lacombe.

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Page 6 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024

OPINION

Want to have your say?

Write a Letter: news.tofield@gmail.com (all opinions must be signed to be published)

JOHN’S RANT Freeland smirks as journalist assaulted

I remember years ago when I was a kid, I travelled with my high school class on a two week trip to the former Soviet Union.

We spent two weeks visiting places in both Moscow and Leningrad and it was an experience I will never forget.

To an inexperienced international traveller it was also one of the most eye opening experiences of my life.

We took off from Toronto, flew to London, to Scotland, and then on to Moscow where we arrived in the early hours of a chilly March morning.

It was 1973 and the Soviet Union was just beginning to peel back the iron curtain for tourists from the west.

Our airplane was parked about a quarter mile from the Moscow Air Terminal building and we were herded down the steps to waiting buses to be taken to where we were processed through customs and taken to our hotel.

Between the bottom of the place steps and the entrance to the bus was a carpet and on each side a line of soldiers all holding submachine guns and none of them smiling.

After a decidedly long flight my group certainly knew we weren’t in Canada anymore. We were in a very different country in many ways a totally different world.

Another incident as we rode a bus through the streets of Moscow to a museum was of a long-haired person being stomped on a street corner by a group of men. Meanwhile some police officers stood to the side smoking, smiling and doing absolutely nothing to stop the beating.

We idealistic students were shocked.

How could this happen?

It certainly wasn’t something you would see in Canada.

Fast forward some 50 years.

A journalist from what I call a quasi news outlet, but nonetheless a journalist asking legitimate questions in a scrum fashion of our Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland was bumped into by a member of her security detail, slammed against a wall and then arrested for assaulting a police officer.

I’ve watched the video of this incident, which is widely available on YouTube, and I was immediately reminded of that beating in the street in Moscow.

Thuggish … that’s the only way you can describe the police conduct in this case.

Even mainstream media had to weigh in on this incident and blame the police for an overreaction, despite them decrying the term news outlet to describe Rebel News.

Freeland meanwhile refused to answer questions as she was whisked away by an aide.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre jumped aboard the incident to blame it on eight years of Trudeau’s government.

While he is using the incident to score political points, he is not wrong.

Trudeau is arrogant and smug, much like his father, who had little use for the media.

Trudeau’s Environment Minister Stephen Guilbeault smirks and laughs at media questions all the time.

A society that doesn’t have a media asking both soft and hard questions and then digging to receive accurate answers is going to see a failure of that society and this is the ultimate goal of Trudeau.

He has alienated the west, he allows his own laws to be tweaked or even

abandoned to favour areas that vote in favour of his party.

He has called Canadians racists and misogynists, lumping all of us into the same basket.

Yet he puts himself in a stratosphere way above the average Canuck.

Freeland, she who carries a box, so she looks the same size as the big boys when she makes a speech, is in that same elitist stratosphere.

This is a woman, who when explaining how she sympathized with Canadians’ financial hardships, said she had actually suspended her kids Disney streaming service, a $12 monthly expense.

This from a woman taking home half a million bucks a year.

She just doesn’t get her arrogance.

And she won’t answer a reporter's question.

Instead, smirks and skulks away when her burly security Gestapo bumps the reporter and then arrests him.

Welcome to the Canadian police state!

This situation has made headlines around the world.

It’s another slap in the face for our country.

All courtesy of Justin Trudeau and his inept leadership.

This just can’t be allowed to continue.

JOHN MATHER

Tofield and area experienced fog and the accompanying decoration of hoar frost for a few days last week. Hoar frost occurs when soft ice crystals form on any object that has cooled below the freezing mark. The water vapour in the below-freezing air condenses directly to ice when cooled on contact with cool surfaces. Hoar frost typically forms in extremely moist air masses, and Tofield’s relative humidity had been in the mid-nineties.

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - Page 7

LOOSE ENDS Serenaders List plays country music, also my fav. They do toss in a few non-country artists, like Taylor Swift who called herself country for a while before deciding there was more money to be made in pop music and boy was she right. I don’t know if the query was part of a contest or just the Dj’s natural curiosity but when I started listing the people I’d enjoy an in-person visit from, I realized I just couldn’t choose one. Here they are, in no sort of order, just written down

Carol Livingstone Tofield Mercury Columnist

Who would I want to serenade me on my birthday? That was the question put forth on the radio the other day, on my favourite station which

as I thought of them.

• Chris Stapleton – he can bring his wife since they harmonize so nicely.

He absolutely must sing Whiskey River.

• Carrie Underwood – that girl has pipes! I don’t care what she sings, Jesus Take the Wheel or the National Anthem – magic happens!

• Dolly Parton – Hey, it’s Dolly!

• Celtic Thunder – “All God’s children have a place in the world” over and over, all day long, with their dance moves

included.

• Anne Murray – haven’t seen or heard her for ages but recent YouTube viewings reminded me how much I enjoy her.

• Sam Elliot – he doesn’t need to sing, just talk. That voice!

• The Canadian Tenors, Four Tenors, and the Texas Tenors – they only need to be tenors who sing in harmony. Wow! • Little Big Town (or is it Big Little Town?) – whatever they are called, the gal with the long dark

hair can sing pretty well anything and she does it beautifully.

• Keith Urban – bring your guitar, please. And your voice, of course.

• Brad Paisley- ditto!

• Vince Gill – “Go Rest High up on the Mountain,” the song he wrote for his brother, makes me cry every time. And no, I won’t mind crying on my birthday.

• Reba – always love the way she can make single syllables into two.

And even with her new face she’s still a sweet-

heart.

• The HighwayMen – might be difficult since Johnny and Waylon have gone to the great country concert in the sky and Kris and Willie are both in their 90s and can’t sing any more but I’d be happy with YouTube videos all day.

• The Eagles – Hotel California all day!

• Trisha Yearwood – another voice from Heaven.

• Tom Selleck – can he sing? Who cares? All he has to do is hum.

RCMP Report Smashed window to business right before Christmas were cut to a shed and entry was gained. Matter is still under investigation.

December 22 – Tofield RCMP received a complaint of a break and enter to a local business.

A lock to the complex was broken and entry was gained. Several small tools including grinders and batteries were stolen.

Matter is still under investigation.

December 23 – Tofield

Tofield RCMP received several calls from December 15 to 31, 2023. Some notable incidents are: December 18 – Tofield RCMP received a complaint of a break and enter to a local business in Beaver County. Doors were forced open causing some damage. Matter is still under investigation.

December 18 – Tofield RCMP responded to a school in the Beaver County area where locks

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RCMP received a complaint of a smashed window to a business in downtown Tofield. Police attended and observed the scene.

December 28 – Tofield RCMP responded to a collision near Ryley, Alberta at Township Road 500 and Range Road 170, about five kilometres east

of the village. Emergency personnel found a 71year-old man, a resident of Flagstaff County, dead at the scene. Two 15-yearold occupants of the sec-

ond vehicle were taken to hospital with serious injuries via both STARS air ambulance and ground transportation. Matter is still under investigation.

Tofield Titans U11 teams awarded gold and silver The Tofield Titans U11-1 finished with Gold during the tournament in Tofield during the Jan. 5-7 weekend. Tofield U11-1 won 5-3 over the Fort Saskatchewan Rangers. Pictured (right) in no particular order are: Players Kevin Gray, Jenna Lungal, Dayne Jober, Shane Kyle, Hunter Jackson, Logan Barmentloo, Max Jeffrey, Anthony MacNeil, Chase Ferron, Kehgan McCabe, Cooper Olson, Dominic O'Brien, Quinn MacNeil, and Chase Clark. The Tofield Titans U11-2 also did well in the tournament, finishing with silver vs the Camrose Vikings, with the final score being 3-1. Pictured (below) L-R: Deagan Samson, Kylie Russell, Ayden Komarinsky, Griffin Neufeld, Brodie McLeod, Asher Montgomery, Hayden Thom, Easton Kallal, Raeleigh Murphy, Ruby Montgomery, Finn Montgomery, Bentley Ruzykci.

Missing: Annabella Klita.

Page 8 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024

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A NNUAL G ENERAL M EETING OFCO-OP BBEAVER C OUNTY S EED C LEANING EAVER C OUNTY S EED C LEANING -OP B EAVER C OUNTY S EED C LEANING CC - OP OO For September Sale: Common Seed on Oats, p.m. at 7 & Held October November 1, 2024 February Thursday, Pony Oats and Barley Open by appointment only at the Holden Complex

Serving all the farms, ranches, acreages and towns in Beaver County

Chronicle

Bruce, Holden, Kinsella Ryley, Tofield, Viking

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB

Phone Holden, AB COFFEE & 780-688-3917 DONUTS WILL• BE PROVIDED

The Beaver County

Hubert & Margaret Graham

Hubert & Margaret Graham Parts, Sales & Service Parts, Sales & Service Bus: 780-663-3759 Bus: 780-663-3759 Res: 780-662-2384 Res: 780-662-2384 Fax: 780-663-3799 Fax: 780-663-3799 ryalta@digitalweb.net ryalta@digitalweb.net

5108 - 50th St.St. Ryley, AB., T0B 4J0 5108 - 50th Ryley, AB., T0B 4A0

A Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County Wednesday, November , 2023, Volume 16, Issue 46 Wednesday, Wednesday January February17, 16 2024, 2022 Volume17, 15 Issue03 7

Ag Societies getting recognized with support from province Patricia Harcourt Local ag societies may benefit this year as the province pays more than lip service to supporting and helping revitalize these major contributors to local communities.

The government is helping agricultural societies make major facility repairs and upgrades that they state will improve the quality of life for rural communities.

An announcement entitled “Building better agricultural societies” was made Friday, Jan. 12, concerning Alberta’s new Agricultural Society Infrastructure Revitalization Program at Madden with several provincial and ag society officials on hand.

Beaver County has agricultural societies in Kinsella, Viking, Bruce, Holden, Ryley and Tofield, which run many community events over a year.

They are hugely supported and add much to the community spirit for each community. It runs the gamut from bull riding, to rodeos, parades, chariot and chuckwagon races, community hall and complex events, a swimming pool, and summer and winter festivals, and a lot more.

“Agricultural societies play a significant role in the social life of Alberta towns, villages and rural communities,” states the government, adding that: “Throughout the year they can be counted on to host community events from farmers markets and craft fairs to children’s programs and summer rodeos.”

Locally, people enjoy a monthly steak fry at Holden while looking forward to summer festi-

vals there and in many other communities.

Bruce again held their perogy supper and turkey bingo before Christmas, with the Stampede to come in the summer.

Alberta has 291 agricultural societies, which is the most anywhere in Canada. The tradition is a strong one, as they own and operate more than 900 facilities and host more than 37,000 activities and events per year.

The oldest agricultural societies date back as far as 1879, predating the inception of the province.

This year, $2.5 million is being granted to 34 ag societies to update existing facilities like community halls arenas and rodeo grounds.

“Modern buildings and amenities encourage community involvement and growth,” is stated as the reason to help with these upgrades.

The funds are coming through the 2023 Agricultural Societies Infrastructure Revitalization Program.

“Agricultural societies play a key role in improving rural communities and well-maintained facilities support their continued success.”

The announcement was made Jan. 12 so there are ag societies gearing up now and finalizing plans for work to be done this year.

With these funds, ag societies across Alberta will be able to expand programs and keep their spaces safe, modern and accessible.

“These facilities play an essential role in rural communities, offering residents and visitors opportunities to gather, build connections and engage with their neighbours,” said R.J.

Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation.

The revitalization program is an ongoing grant program that distributes funds on a yearly basis, with individual projects that can receive funding between $10,000 and $100,000.

The most common types of facilities applied for under the program are arenas, curling rinks, community halls and grandstands. Some of the approved projects the funding will support include roof repairs, kitchen and bathroom renovations, windows and door upgrades and increasing accessibility.

And the ag society association is also pleased with the funding.

“We’re please to see a strong uptake of this new capital grant by ag societies across Alberta,” says Tim Carson, CEO of the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies.

Carson added that “these facilities are gathering spaces for a range of activities including farmers markets, rural fairs, team sports and rodeos. The facility upgrades that are now possible with this funding will immensely benefit rural communities.”

In Madden, for example, the ag society will use their funding for replacing the flooring in their commercial kitchen as well as upgrading their curling rink with newer energy-saving liners to help reduce operating costs and improve the ice quality.

Alberta’s government has promised “to continue to support agricultural societies” through the program with its intake for 2024 opening later in the year.

Bylaws to be changed, county writes letters over water supply concerns Patricia Harcourt Beaver County is proposing to change its bylaw regarding fees, rates and charges this week at the Jan. 17 council meeting.

The county is in the process of eliminating old policies and bylaws and replacing them with updated versions.

Other bylaws being upgraded include those regarding payment of accounts, cash control,

purchasing, revolving line of credit, verification of compliance, acknowledgement of Treaty 6 and proclamations.

Council will also deal with correspondence from Minister Rebecca Schultz, minister of environment and protected areas, addressing a letter sent by county Reeve Kevin Smook concerning the county’s water supply.

In her reply on behalf of Premier Danielle Smith, Schultz states: “Beaver County might

want to consider conducting a study on the county’s future long-term water needs and potential sources.

“Once a study is completed, the Highway 14 Regional Water Services Commission could engage agencies to secure funding for twinning the regional line to pursue the other options,” stated Schultz.

She suggested the county apply for the Water Continued on Page BCC4

2 - Beaver County Chronicle, January 17, 2024

‫ בא׎א‬Xz «0àX0á nȒɎɀ Ȓǔ ȵȸȒ ȸȒǴǴƺƬɎɀ ɯƺȸƺ ƬȒȅȅƺȇƬƺƳً ȵȸȒǕȸƺɀɀƺƳً ƏȇƳ ƬȒȅȵǼƺɎƺƳ ǣȇ ‫ ًבא׎א‬ɀȒ ɯƺ‫ټ‬ɮƺ ƬȸƺƏɎƺƳ Ə ƫȒȒǸǼƺɎ ɎȒ ɀǝƏȸƺ ɯǝƏɎ !ȒɖȇƬǣǼ ƏȇƳ ƳȅǣȇǣɀɎȸƏɎǣȒȇ ǝƏɮƺ ƫƺƺȇ ɯȒȸǸǣȇǕ Ȓȇِ IǣȇƳ ǣɎ Ȓȇ Ȓɖȸ ɯƺƫɀǣɎƺِ ¨ȸǣȇɎƺƳ ƬȒȵǣƺɀ ɯǣǼǼ ƫƺ ƏɮƏǣǼƏƫǼƺ ǣȇ Ɏǝƺ ȒǔǔǣƬƺ ɀȒȒȇٍ

ƺƏɮƺȸ !ȒɖȇɎɵ ǣɀ ƬɖȸȸƺȇɎǼɵ ɀƺƺǸǣȇǕ ɀɖƫȅǣɀɀǣȒȇɀ ǔȒȸ Ɏǝƺ ǔȒǼǼȒɯǣȇǕ‫ي‬ ǼƏƬǸ zɖǕǕƺɎ nƏǸƺ ƏȇƳ !Əȅȵ nƏǸƺ ȵƺȸƏɎǣȒȇ ƏȇƳ xƏǣȇɎƺȇƏȇƬƺ !ƏȸƺɎƏǸƺȸɀ nƏȇƳǔǼȒȒƳ ۭ ƺƏɮƺȸ !ȒȇɎȸȒǼ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ (ɖɀɎ !ȒȇɎȸȒǼ ³ɖȵȵȸƺɀɀƏȇɎ ƏȇƳ áǣȇɎƺȸ ³ƏȇƳ xǣɴǣȇǕ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ IȒȸ ƬȒȅȵǼƺɎƺ ȵƏƬǸƏǕƺɀ ȵǼƺƏɀƺ ǝƺƏƳ ɎȒ Ȓɖȸ ɯƺƫɀǣɎƺ ‫ڽ‬ ɖɀǣȇƺɀɀ ‫« ڽ‬ƺȷɖƺɀɎɀ ǔǔȒ Ȓȸ ¨ȸȒȵȒɀƏǼɀ ۭ ªɖȒɎƺɀ

ʿ˔ˡ˗˙˜˟˟ ʙ ˅ˬ˟˘ˬ ˇ˥˔ˡ˦˙˘˥ ˆ˧˔˧˜ˢˡʭ ʨʣʤʤʪ ˅˚˘ ˅˗ ʤʪʦ ʛʻˊˌ ʫʨʧʜ ʵˢ˫ ʦʥʥʟ ˅ˬ˟˘ˬʟ ʴʵ ˇʣʵ ʧʴʣ ˊ˘˘˞˗˔ˬ˦ ʬʭʣʣ˔ˠ ʠ ʧʭʦʣˣˠʮ ˆ˔˧˨˥˗˔ˬ˦ ʢ ˆˇʴˇˆ ʬʭʣʣ˔ˠ ʠ ʦʭʣʣˣˠʮ ʶ˟ˢ˦˘˗ ˆ˨ˡ˗˔ˬ˦ ˁ˂ˇʸʭ ˖˨˦˧ˢˠ˘˥˦ ˠ˨˦˧ ˔˥˥˜˩˘ ˔˧ ˟˘˔˦˧ ʤʨ ˠ˜ˡ˨˧˘˦ ˣ˥˜ˢ˥ ˧ˢ ˖˟ˢ˦˜ˡ˚ʮ ʴ˗ˠ˜ˡ˜˦˧˥˔˧˜ˢˡ ˕˨˜˟˗˜ˡ˚ ˀˢˡ ˧ˢ ʹ˥˜ ʫʭʣʣ˔ˠ Ϟʧʭʣʣˣˠʟ ʶ˟ˢ˦˘˗ ˙˥ˢˠ ʤʥʭʣʣ ʠ ʤʭʣ ʣʣˣˠ ˇˢ˟˟ ʹ˥˘˘ʭ ʤʡʫʨʨʡʥʥʤʡʥʣʦʫ ˃˛ʭ ʪʫʣʡʩʩʦʡʥʣʦʫ ʿ˜ˡ˗˕˥ˢˢ˞ ˇ˥˔ˡ˦˙˘˥ ˆ˧˔˧˜ˢˡʭ ʨʤʣʣʫ ˅˚˘ ˅˗ ʥʣʤ ˃˛ʭ ʪʫʣʡʩʩʥʡʥʪʣʧ ˇ˨˘˦ ʤʣʭʦʣ˔ˠ ʠ ʨʭʦʣˣˠʮ ˇ˛˨˥˦ ʤʤʭʦʣ˔ˠ ʠ ʩʭʦʣˣˠʮ ˆ˔˧ ʤʣʭʦʣ˔ˠ ʠ ʨʭʦʣˣˠ ˇˢ˙˜˘˟˗ ˇ˥˔ˡ˦˙˘˥ ˆ˧˔˧˜ˢˡ ˡʭ ʨʤʣʦʥ ˅˚˘ ˅˗ ʤʬʤ ˃˛ʭ ʪʫʣ ʣʡʩʩʥ ʥʡʥʪʦʤ ˊ˘˗ʟ ʹ˥˜ ʙ ˆ˔˧ ʤʣʭʦʣ˔ˠ ʠ ʨʭʦʣ ʣˣˠ ˠ

(X( ç È kz áٍ ÁȒǔǣƺǼƳٖ ƺƏɮƺȸ !ȒɖȇɎɵ áƺɀɎ I!³³ Ȓǔǔǔǔƺȸɀ Ə RȒȅƺ RƺǼȵ ¨ȸȒǕȸƏȅ ǔȒȸ ³ƺȇǣȒȸɀ ǼǣɮǣȇǕ ǣȇ ÁȒǔǣƺǼƳ ƏȇƳ ƺƏɮƺȸ !ȒɖȇɎɵ áƺɀɎ ٢ȸƏȇǕƺɀ ‫׏אٮו׏‬٣ِ

ʾ˜ˡ˦˘˟˟˔ ˇ˥˔ˡ˦˙˘˥ ˆ˧˔˧˜ˢˡʭ ʧʩʧʤʫ ˅˚˘ ˅˗ ʤʤʦ ˃˛ʭ ʪʫʣʡʥʥʩʡʩʫʣʥ ˊ˘˗ ʤʤʭʣʣ˔ˠ ʠ ʨʭʣʣˣˠʮ ʹ˥˜ ʤʤʭʣʣ˔ˠ ʠ ʨʭʣʣˣˠ

³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ ȵȸȒɮǣƳƺƳ Əȸƺ ǼǣȅǣɎƺƳ ɎȒ ǼǣǕǝɎ ƬǼƺƏȇǣȇǕ ɀƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ ɀɖƬǝ Əɀ‫ي‬ ³ɯƺƺȵǣȇǕً ȅȒȵȵǣȇǕ ǔǼȒȒȸɀً ɮƏƬɖɖȅǣȇǕ ƬƏȸȵƺɎɀً ƳɖɀɎǣȇǕً ƏȇƳ ɯƏɎƺȸǣȇǕ ȵǼƏȇɎɀِ nǣǕǝɎ nƏɖȇƳȸɵ ǣȇƬǼɖƳǣȇǕ ǼȒƏƳǣȇǕ ƏȇƳ ǔȒǼƳǣȇǕ ǼƏɖȇƳȸɵ ٢Ȓȇƺ ǼȒƏƳ ȵƺȸ ɮǣɀǣɎ٣ِ !ǼƺƏȇǣȇǕ ɯƏɀǝȸȒȒȅɀ ǣȇƬǼɖƳǣȇǕ ɀǣȇǸɀً ƬȒɖȇɎƺȸɎȒȵɀً Ɏɖƫɀً ɀǝȒɯƺȸɀً ƏȇƳ ɎȒǣǼƺɎɀِ !ǼƺƏȇǣȇǕ ǸǣɎƬǝƺȇɀ ǣȇƬǼɖƳǣȇǕ ǼǣǕǝɎ ƳǣɀǝɯƏɀǝǣȇǕ Ȓȸ ǼȒƏƳǣȇǕ ƳǣɀǝɯƏɀǝƺȸɀً ƬȒɖȇɎƺȸɎȒȵɀً ɀǣȇǸɀ ƏȇƳ ɀɎȒɮƺɎȒȵɀِ JƺȇƺȸƏǼ ɎǣƳɵǣȇǕ ٫ ɯǣȵǣȇǕ ɎƏƫǼƺɎȒȵɀً ƺȅȵɎɵǣȇǕ ǕƏȸƫƏǕƺ ٢ƳȒƺɀ ȇȒɎ ǣȇƬǼɖƳƺ ȸȒȒȅ ȸƺ‫ٮ‬ȒȸǕƏȇǣɿƏɎǣȒȇ ƺɎƬِ Ȓȸ ȅȒɮǣȇǕ ǝƺƏɮ ɮɵ ɵ ǔɖȸȇǣɎɖȸƺ٣ِ

˃˟˘˔˦˘ ˡˢ˧˘ʭ ʴ˟˟ ˧˥˔ˡ˦˙˙˘ ˘˥ ˦˧˔˧˜ˢˡ˦ ˘˫˖˘ˣ˧ ˙˙ˢ ˢ˥ ˧˛˘ ˅ˬ˟˘ˬ ˇ˥˔ˡ˦˙˙˘ ˇ˥ ˘˥ ˆ˧˔˧˜ˢˡ ˔˥˘ ˖˟ˢ˦˘˗ ˢˡ ˆ˧˔˧˨˧ˢ˥ˬ ˛ˢ˟˜˗˔ˬ ˬ˦ ˦ʡ

Iƺƺɀ ǔȒȸ ɀƺȸɮǣƬƺ Əȸƺ ƬǝƏȸǕƺƳ ƫɵ ǣȇƬȒȅƺ Ȓȇ Ə ɀǼǣƳǣȇǕ ɀƬƏǼƺِ ¨ǼƺƏɀƺ ƬƏǼǼ ‫ וה׎וٮאההٮ׎זו‬ǔȒȸ ȅȒȸƺ ǣȇǔǔȒ ȒȸȅƏɎǣȒȇِ

ˉ˜˞˜ˡ˚ ˇ˥˔ˡ˦˙˘˥ ˆ˧˔˧˜ˢˡʭ ʤʥʨʣʦ ˇ˪ˣ ˅˗ ʧʫʣ ˃˛ʭ ʪʫʣʡʪʤʫʡʪʬʨʩ ˇ˨˘˦ ʤʣʭʦʣ˔ˠ ʠ ʨʭʦʣˣˠʮ ˆ˔˧ ʤʣʭʦʣ˔ˠ ʠ ʨʭʦʣ ʣˣˠ

ƺ Ə ɮ ƺ ȸ ! Ȓ ɖ ȇ Ɏ ɵ ۴ ‫ ׎ ד ٮ ׎ א ׏ ד‬Ɏ ǝ ³ Ɏ ȸ ƺ ƺ Ɏ ً Ȓ ɴ ‫ « ً ׎ ג ׏‬ɵ Ǽ ƺ ɵ ً Á ‫ ׎ ג ׎‬۴ ‫ ׎ ב ו ב ٮ ב ה ה ٮ ׎ ז ו‬۴ ƫ ƺ Ə ɮ ƺ ȸ ِ Ə ƫ ِ Ƭ Ə

Beaver County Chronicle, January 17, 2024 - 3

Xx¨ «Á zÁ ( Á Á0³ hƏȇɖƏȸɵ ‫ו׏‬Ɏǝ‫ي‬ ‫ ׎בيח‬x‫ ي‬JȒɮƺȸȇƏȇƬƺ ƏȇƳ ¨ȸǣȒȸǣɎǣƺɀ !ȒȅȅǣɎɎƺƺ xƺƺɎǣȇǕ ‫¨ ׏‬x‫« ي‬ƺǕɖǼƏȸ !ȒɖȇƬǣǼ xƺƺɎǣȇǕ hƏȇɖƏȸɵ ‫ז׏‬Ɏǝ‫ي‬ ‫¨ ב‬x‫ ي‬ǕȸǣƬɖǼɎɖȸƏǼ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺ ȒƏȸƳ xƺƺɎǣȇǕ IƺƫȸɖƏȸɵ ‫ו‬Ɏǝ‫ي‬ ‫ ׎בيח‬x‫ ي‬JȒɮƺȸȇƏȇƬƺ ƏȇƳ ¨ȸǣȒȸǣɎǣƺɀ !ȒȅȅǣɎɎƺƺ xƺƺɎǣȇǕ IƺƫȸɖƏȸɵ ‫׏א‬ɀɎ‫ي‬ ‫ ׎בيח‬x‫« ي‬ƺǕɖǼƏȸ !ȒɖȇƬǣǼ xƺƺɎǣȇǕ

áR Á³ R ¨¨0zXzJ Xz È« ! xxÈzXÁç ȒȒǸ !Ǽɖƫ ‫ ٮ‬IƺƫȸɖƏȸɵ ‫ה‬Ɏǝ nȒƬƏɎǣȒȇ‫« ي‬Ȓɀɀ !ȸƺƺǸ !ȒȅȅɖȇǣɎɵ RƏǼǼً ‫« ׏ג׎׏בד‬Ǖƺ «Ƴ ‫׏ח׏‬ «ɖȸƏǼ ƫȒȒǸ ƬǼɖƫ ɎǝƏɎ ȅƺƺɎɀ Ɏǝƺ ǔǣȸɀɎ ÁɖƺɀƳƏɵ Ȓǔ ƺƏƬǝ ȅȒȇɎǝِ xƺƺɎǣȇǕɀ ȸɖȇ ǔȸȒȅ ‫¨ו‬x ‫¨ז ٮ‬xً ƏǼǼ ƏǕƺɀ ɯƺǼƬȒȅƺٍ (ƏȸɎɀ zǣǕǝɎ ‫ ٮ‬áƺƳȇƺɀƳƏɵ ƺɮƺȇǣȇǕɀ ƏɎ Ɏǝƺ «ɵǼƺɵ nƺǕǣȒȇ ‫¨ ׎בيו‬x‫¨ ׎׎ي׎׏ ٮ‬x nƺǕǣȒȇ ȅƺȅƫƺȸɀǝǣȵ ȇȒɎ ȸƺȷɖǣȸƺƳً ƏȇƳ ƏǼǼ ɀǸǣǼǼɀ ǼƺɮƺǼɀ ɯƺǼƬȒȅƺٍ (ƏȸɎɀ ƏɮƏǣǼƏƫǼƺ ɎȒ ǼƺȇƳ ǣǔ ȇƺƺƳƺƳِ IȒȒƳ ǔȒȸ ÁǝȒɖǕǝɎ ‫ ٮ‬Jǣɮƺ Ə !Əȇ ÁȒƳƏɵ ‫ ٮ‬IȒȒƳ (ȸǣɮƺ ÁȒǔǣƺǼƳ‫«ٮ‬ɵǼƺɵ IȒȒƳ ƏȇǸ ƳƺɀȵƺȸƏɎƺǼɵ ȇƺƺƳɀ ƬƏȇɀ Ȓǔ ǔȸɖǣɎِ !ƏǼǼ ‫ ׏׏דבٮאההٮ׎זו‬ƏȇƳ ǼƺƏɮƺ Ə ȅƺɀɀƏǕƺ ǣǔ ɵȒɖ ɯǣɀǝ ɎȒ ƳȒȇƏɎƺ ‫ ٮ‬Ə ɮȒǼɖȇɎƺƺȸ ɯǣǼǼ ȸƺɎɖȸȇ ɵȒɖȸ ƬƏǼǼِ !ƏȸƺǕǣɮƺȸɀ (ȸȒȵ‫ٮ‬Xȇ JȸȒɖȵ ‫ ٮ‬hƏȇɖƏȸɵ ‫ ׎׏ ً׎ב ًבא‬x ‫ ٮ‬zȒȒȇِ àǣǸǣȇǕ ³ƺȇǣȒȸɀ !ƺȇɎȸƺِ IȒȸ ȅȒȸƺ ǣȇǔȒ ƬȒȇɎƏƬɎ àǣǸǣȇǕٖ ƺƏɮƺȸ I!³³ ƏɎ ‫ٮהבבٮ׎זו‬ ‫גא׎ג‬ xɖɀǣƬ hƏȅ ٖ ȵƺȇ xǣƬ ‫ ٮ‬³ɖȇƳƏɵ hƏȇɖƏȸɵ ‫ ׏א‬ƏɎ ‫¨ א‬x RȒǼƳƺȇ !ȒȅȅɖȇǣɎɵ RƏǼǼِ ³ȵƺƬɎƏɎȒȸɀ ٢‫דڟ‬٣ً xɖɀǣƬǣƏȇɀ ٢Iȸƺƺ٣ِ ÁȒǔǣƺǼƳ ‫ ٮ‬ÁǝɖȸɀƳƏɵɀً ‫¨ ח ٮ ז‬x ƏɀƺȅƺȇɎ Ȓǔ ƏȸƳȒ nɖɎǝƺȸƏȇ !ǝɖȸƬǝً ‫ וד ובוג‬ɮƺً ÁȒǔǣƺǼƳِ àǣǸǣȇǕ ‫ ٮ‬áƺƳȇƺɀƳƏɵɀً ‫¨ ׎בيו‬xً ñȒȒȅ ȒȵɎǣȒȇ ƏǼɀȒ ƏɮƏǣǼƏƫǼƺِ JȒǼƳƺȇ àƏǼǼƺɵ nɖɎǝƺȸƏȇ !ǝɖȸƬǝً ‫ הד ואבד‬ɮƺً àǣǸǣȇǕِ ǝɎɎȵɀ‫ٖ​ٖي‬ ٖ​ٖƏȸƺƏ‫זו‬ƏƏِȒȸǕٖȅƺƺɎǣȇǕɀٖ‫׏‬ ٖ‫ٖבٮוג׏‬ ³ɖƫȅǣɎ ɵȒ ɵȒɖȸ ƺɮƺȇɎ‫ٱ‬ Ɏ‫ٱ‬ɀ ‫ٱ‬ɀ٦ ɀ٦ ȅƺƺɎǣȇǕɀ ƏȇƳ‫ٱ‬ Ƴ‫ٱ‬Ȓ ‫ٱ‬Ȓȸ ǕƏɎǝƺȸǣȇǕɀ ɎȒ Ȓɖȸ ƺɮƺ ɮƺȇɎɀ ƬƏǼƺȇƳƏȸ Ȓȇ Ɏǝƺ ɯƺƫɀǣɎƺ٨ hɖɀɎ ǝƺƏƳ ɎȒ Ɏǝƺ ɯƺƫɀǣɎƺ٦ ɀƬȸȒǼǼ ƳȒɯȇ ɎȒ Ɏǝƺ ƬƏǼƺȇƳƏȸ٦ ɯƺ ȸ٦ ƬǼǣƬǸ ɎȒ ɮǣƺɯ ƏǼǼ ƺɮƺ ɮƺȇɎɀ٦ ɀ٦ Ɏǝƺȇ ǝǣɎ Ɏǝƺ ³ɖƫȅǣɎ Əȇ ƺɮƺ ɮƺȇɎ ƫɖɎɎȒȇ٨

(0à0n ¨x0zÁ ¨0«xXÁ³ Áǝƺ ǔȒǼǼȒɯǣȇǕ (ƺɮƺǼȒȵȅƺȇɎ ȵȵǼǣƬƏɎǣȒȇɀ ǝƏɮƺ ƫƺƺȇ ¨¨« à0( ٢ƺɴƬƺȵɎ ɯǝƺȸƺ ȒɎǝƺȸɯǣɀƺ ȇȒɎƺƳ٣ ƫɵ Ɏǝƺ (ƺɮƺǼȒȵȅƺȇɎ ɖɎǝȒȸǣɎɵ ɖȇƳƺȸ Ɏǝƺ ȵȸȒɮǣɀǣȒȇɀ Ȓǔ nƏȇƳ Èɀƺ ɵǼƏɯ zȒِ ‫ ً׏׎זٮזח‬ɀɖƫǴ ƫǴƺƬɎ ɎȒ Ɏǝƺ ȸǣǕǝɎ Ȓǔ ƏȵȵƺƏǼ ɎȒ Ɏǝƺ ³ɖƫƳǣɮǣɀǣȒȇ ƏȇƳ (ƺɮƺǼȒȵȅƺȇɎ ȵȵƺƏǼ ȒƏȸƳٖnƏȇƳ ƏȇƳ ¨ȸȒȵƺȸɎɵ Ɏɵ «ǣǕǝɎɀ ÁȸǣƫɖȇƏǼِ ¨¨0 n (0 (nXz0 ȵȵƺƏǼ ȒƳɵ ȵȵǼǣƬƏɎǣȒȇ zȒِ ȵȵǼǣƬƏȇɎ nƏȇƳȒɯȇƺȸ nȒƬƏɎǣȒȇ (ƺɮƺǼȒȵȅƺȇɎ

I0 «È «ç ‫ גא׎א ًו‬ n¨«Á ‫ ג׎׎׎(ٮגאٮ׎א׎׎א׎‬ x J 0ȇƺȸǕɵ nɎƳِ !« IƏȸȅɀ nɎƳِ ¨ǼƏȇ ‫ ٕזאחא א׏א‬ǼȒƬǸ ‫ ٕ׏‬nȒɎ ‫ ב‬ǼȒƬƏɎƺƳ ǣȇ z0‫ٮח׏ٮ׏דٮד׏ٮ‬á‫ ג‬ (ǣɀƬȸƺɎǣȒȇƏȸɵ ȸɵ Èɀƺ ٫ zƏɎɖȸƏǼ «ƺɀȒɖȸƬƺ 0ɴɎȸƏƬɎǣȒȇ Èɀƺɀ ƏȇƳ JƺȇƺȸƏǼ XȇƳɖɀɎȸǣƏǼ Èɀƺɀ ٫ Áɵ Áɵȵƺ XX ٫ IȒɖȸ ٢‫ג‬٣ zƏɎɖȸƏǼ JƏɀ JƺȇƺȸƏɎȒȸɀ ƬȒȅƫǣȇƺƳ ƬƏȵƏƬǣɎɵ Ɏɵ Ȓǔ ‫ ׎חח‬Ǹá ٢ɀƺƏ ƬƏȇɀ ‫ٮ‬ ƺƏƬǝ ƫƺǣȇǕ ‫דِ׏‬ȅ ɴ ‫גِא‬ȅ٣ ƏȇƳ ȇƺ ٢‫׏‬٣ (ƏɎƏ ¨ȸȒƬƺɀɀǣȇǕ IƏƬǣǼǣɎɵ Ɏɵ ٢ɀƺƏ ƬƏȇ ‫גِא ٮ‬ȅ ɴ ‫גِא׏‬ȅ٣ ٫ ƏƳƳƺƳ ɎȒ ƺɴǣɀɎǣȇǕ ɯƺǼǼɀǣɎƺ ɯǣɎǝ ɯƺǼǼ ƏȇƳ ƬȒȅȵȸƺɀɀȒȸ

¨¨0 n (0 (nXz0 ȵȵƺƏǼ ȒƳɵ ȵȵǼǣƬƏɎǣȒȇ zȒِ ȵȵǼǣƬƏȇɎ nƏȇƳȒɯȇƺȸ nȒƬƏɎǣȒȇ (ƺɮƺǼȒȵȅƺȇɎ

I0 «È «ç ‫ גא׎א ًו‬ ³( ‫ ד׎׎׎(ٮגאٮ׎א׎׎א׎‬ IǼɖƺȇɎ ³ȒǼƏȸ JȒȸƳȒȇ ǣɎǸƺȇ ƏȇƳ (ƏȸǼƺȇƺ ³ɮƺȇƳɀƺȇ ¨ǼƏȇ ‫ ٕזזחא אזו‬ǼȒƬǸ ‫ ٕג‬nȒɎ ‫ א‬ǼȒƬƏɎƺƳ ǣȇ z0‫ٮ׎אٮ׎דٮואٮ‬á‫ ג‬ (ǣɀƬȸƺɎǣȒȇƏȸɵ ȸɵ Èɀƺ ٫ ³ȒǼƏȸ !ȒǼǼƺƬɎȒȸً «ȒȒǔ xȒɖȇɎ ٢‫ חאِהבב‬ǔɎ ǔɎ‫א‬ ǣȇ ƏȸƺƏ ɎȒ ƫƺ ȅȒɖȇɎƺƳ Ȓȇ ƺɴǣɀɎǣȇǕ ǕƏȸƏǕƺ٣

ȇɵ ȵƺȸɀȒȇ ɯǣɀǝǣȇǕ ɎȒ ƏȵȵƺƏǼ Əȇ ƏȵȵǼǣƬƏɎǣȒȇ ȅƏɵ ƳȒ ɀȒ ƫɵ ɀƺȸɮǣȇǕ ɯȸǣɎɎƺȇ ȇȒɎǣƬƺ Ȓȇ Ɏǝƺ ȵȸƺɀƬȸǣƫƺƳ ǔȒȸȅ ٢ɀɎƏɎǣȇǕ ƫɵ ȸƺƏɀȒȇɀ ǔȒȸ Ɏǝƺ ƏȵȵƺƏǼ٣ ɎȒ Ɏǝƺ ȸƺǼƺɮƏȇɎ ƏȵȵƺƏǼ ƫȒƳɵِ IȒȸ ǣȇǔȒȸȅƏɎǣȒȇ Ȓȇ ǝȒɯ ɎȒ ƏȵȵƺƏǼ ƬƏȇ ƫƺ ǔȒɖȇƳ Ȓɖȸ Ȓɖȸ ɯƺƫɀǣɎƺ ɖȇƳƺȸ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ ‫¨ ڽ‬ǼƏȇȇǣȇǕ ۭ (ƺɮƺ ɮƺǼȒȵȅƺȇɎ ‫ڽ‬ ȵȵƺƏǼǣȇǕ ¨ǼƏȇȇǣȇǕ (ƺƬǣɀǣȒȇɀ IɖȸɎǝƺȸ ǣȇǔȒȸȅƏɎǣȒȇ ȸƺǕƏȸƳǣȇǕ Ɏǝƺ ƏƫȒɮƺ ƳƺƬǣɀǣȒȇɀ ȅƏɵ ƫƺ ȒƫɎƏǣȇƺƳ ǔȸȒȅ Ɏǝƺ !ȒɖȇɎɵ ǔǔ ǔǔǣƬƺً «ɵǼƺɵً ǼƫƺȸɎƏِ

ƳȅǣȇǣɀɎȸƏɎǣɮƺ ɀɀǣɀɎƏȇɎ ‫ ٮ‬IǼȒƏɎƺȸ áƺٔȸƺ Ȓȇ Ɏǝƺ ǼȒȒǸȒɖɎ ǔȒȸ Ə ɮƺȸɀƏɎǣǼƺ ƏȇƳ ƬȒȅȅǣɎɎƺƳ ƳȅǣȇǣɀɎȸƏɎǣɮƺ ɀɀǣɀɎƏȇɎ ɎȒ ƫƺƬȒȅƺ Ə ȵƏȸɎ Ȓǔ Ȓɖȸ ƳɵȇƏȅǣƬ ɎƺƏȅِ Xȇ Ɏǝǣɀ Ƴǣɮƺȸɀƺ ȸȒǼƺً ɵȒɖٔǼǼ ƫƺ ɯȒȸǸǣȇǕ ƳǣȸƺƬɎǼɵ ɖȇƳƺȸ Ɏǝƺ !ǝǣƺǔ ƳȅǣȇǣɀɎȸƏɎǣɮƺ ǔǔǣƬƺȸً ȵȸȒɮǣƳǣȇǕ ƺɀɀƺȇɎǣƏǼ ɀɖȵȵȒȸɎ ƏƬȸȒɀɀ Ə ȸƏȇǕƺ Ȓǔ ƳƺȵƏȸɎȅƺȇɎɀ ƏȇƳ ǔɖȇƬɎǣȒȇɀ ɯǣɎǝǣȇ Ɏǝƺ !ȒɖȇɎɵِ ɀɀǣɀɎƏȇɎ ǕȸǣƬɖǼɎɖȸƏǼ IǣƺǼƳȅƏȇ ‫ ٮ‬ǕȸǣƬɖǼɎɖȸƏǼ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ ȸƺ ɵȒɖ ȵƏɀɀǣȒȇƏɎƺ ƏƫȒɖɎ ƏǕȸǣƬɖǼɎɖȸƺ ƏȇƳ ǼȒȒǸǣȇǕ ǔȒȸ Əȇ ƺɴƬǣɎǣȇǕ ȇƺɯ ȸȒǼƺّ áƺٔȸƺ ǼȒȒǸǣȇǕ ǔȒȸ ɀȒȅƺȒȇƺ ɯǣɎǝ ƺɴȵƺȸǣƺȇƬƺ ɎȒ ǴȒǣȇ Ȓɖȸ ɎƺƏȅً ȸƺȵȒȸɎǣȇǕ ɎȒ Ɏǝƺ ǕȸǣƬɖǼɎɖȸƏǼ IǣƺǼƳȅƏȇِ Xȇ Ɏǝǣɀ ɮǣɎƏǼ ȵȒɀǣɎǣȒȇً ɵȒɖٔǼǼ ƫƺ Ǹƺɵ ǣȇ ǸƺƺȵǣȇǕ Ȓɖȸ ǕȸǣƬɖǼɎɖȸƏǼ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ (ƺȵƏȸɎȅƺȇɎ ȸɖȇȇǣȇǕ ɀȅȒȒɎǝǼɵِ Xǔ ɵȒɖٔȸƺ ȸƺƏƳɵ ɎȒ ȅƏǸƺ Ə ȸƺƏǼ ǣȅȵƏƬɎ ƏȇƳ ǕȸȒɯ ɯǣɎǝ ɖɀً ɯƺٔƳ ǼȒɮƺ ɎȒ ǝƺƏȸ ǔȸȒȅ ɵȒɖٍ ¨ȸȒǴƺƬɎ !ȒȒȸƳǣȇƏɎȒȸ ‫ ٮ‬0«¨ IǣȇƏȇƬƺ áƺٔȸƺ Ȓȇ Ɏǝƺ ǝɖȇɎ ǔȒȸ Ə ɀǝƏȸȵً ɀȒǼɖɎǣȒȇ‫ٮ‬ȒȸǣƺȇɎƺƳ ¨ȸȒǴƺƬɎ !ȒȒȸƳǣȇƏɎȒȸ ɎȒ ƫȸǣȇǕ Ɏǝƺǣȸ ƏȇƏǼɵɎǣƬƏǼ ȵȸȒɯƺɀɀ ɎȒ Ȓɖȸ !ȒȸȵȒȸƏɎƺ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ ɎƺƏȅِ IȒƬɖɀǣȇǕ Ȓȇ 0«¨ ƏȇƳ IǣȇƏȇƬƺً ɵȒɖٔǼǼ ƫƺ Ɏǝƺ ƳȸǣɮǣȇǕ ǔȒȸƬƺ ƫƺǝǣȇƳ ƺɴƬǣɎǣȇǕ ȵȸȒǴƺƬɎɀ ɎǝƏɎ Əȸƺ ƏǼǼ ƏƫȒɖɎ ȅȒƳƺȸȇǣɿǣȇǕ Ȓɖȸ ɀɵɀɎƺȅɀِ «ƺȵȒȸɎǣȇǕ ɎȒ Ɏǝƺ JƺȇƺȸƏǼ xƏȇƏǕƺȸ Ȓǔ !ȒȸȵȒȸƏɎƺ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀً ɵȒɖȸ ȵȸȒǴƺƬɎ ȅƏȇƏǕƺȅƺȇɎ ɀǸǣǼǼɀ ɯǣǼǼ ƫƺ Ǹƺɵ ǣȇ ɎȸƏȇɀǔȒȸȅǣȇǕ ǝȒɯ ɯƺ ɯȒȸǸِ «ƺƏƳɵ ɎȒ ȅƏǸƺ Ə ƫǣǕ ǣȅȵƏƬɎّ áƺٔȸƺ ȸƺƏƳɵ ǔȒȸ ɵȒɖٍ ³ƺƏɀȒȇƏǼ !ȸƺɯ xƺȅƫƺȸ ‫ ٮ‬ǕȸǣƬɖǼɎɖȸƏǼ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ (Ȓ ɵȒɖ ǼȒɮƺ Ɏǝƺ ȒɖɎƳȒȒȸɀّ áƺٔȸƺ ǼȒȒǸǣȇǕ ǔȒȸ Əȇ ƺȇɎǝɖɀǣƏɀɎǣƬ ǣȇƳǣɮǣƳɖƏǼ ɎȒ ƫȸǣȇǕ Ɏǝƺǣȸ ɀǸǣǼǼɀ ɎȒ Ȓɖȸ Ǖ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ ɎƺƏȅٍ hȒǣȇ Ȓɖȸ ɎƺƏȅ Əɀ Ə ¨ƺɀɎǣƬǣƳƺ ȵȵǼǣƬƏɎȒȸ X ‫¨ٽ‬ɖȸɀɖƏȇɎ ɎȒ Ɏǝƺ X٫È٫ ٫0 !ȒǼǼƺƬɎǣɮƺ ǕȸƺƺȅƺȇɎ٦ nȒƬƏǼ ÈȇǣȒȇ zȒ٫ ‫ِپ׮׮ײ‬ «ƺȵȒȸɎǣȇǕ ɎȒ Ɏǝƺ ǕȸǣƬɖǼɎɖȸƏǼ IǣƺǼƳȅƏȇً ɵȒɖٔǼǼ ȵǼƏɵ Ə ɮǣɎƏǼ ȸȒǼƺ ǣȇ ǸƺƺȵǣȇǕ ƺƏɮƺȸ !ȒɖȇɎɵ ƫƺƏɖɎǣǔɖǼِ

IȒȸ ȅȒȸƺ ǣȇǔȒȸȅƏɎǣȒȇً ƏȇƳ ƳƺɎƏǣǼɀ Ȓȇ ǝȒɯ ɎȒ ƏȵȵǼɵً ɮǣɀǣɎ Ȓɖȸ ɯƺƫɀǣɎƺ ‫ ڽ‬JȒɮƺȸȇȅƺȇɎ ‫! ڽ‬Əȸƺƺȸɀ

³ɎƏɵ ǣȇ xƏǣǼǣȇǕ ǼǣɀɎ Ɏǝƺ ǼȒȒȵٍ áƺƫɀǣɎƺ

JƺɎ ȇƺɯɀً ȅƺƺɎǣȇǕ ǝǣǕǝǼǣǕǝɎɀً Ɏǝƺ ȸȒƏƳ ƬȒȇɀɎȸɖƬɎǣȒȇ ɀƬǝƺƳɖǼƺً Ɏǝƺ !ǝȸȒȇǣƬǼƺً ƏȇƳ ȅȒȸƺ ‫ ٮ‬ƳǣȸƺƬɎ ɎȒ ɵȒɖȸ ǣȇƫȒɴٍ

XȇǔȒȸȅƏɎǣȒȇ Ȓȇ !ȒɖȇɎɵ ȵȸȒǕȸƏȅɀ ƏȇƳ ɀƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ ƬƏȇ ƫƺ ǔȒɖȇƳ Ȓȇ Ȓɖȸ ɯƺƫɀǣɎƺً ƏǼȒȇǕ ɯǣɎǝ Ɏǝƺ ǼƏɎƺɀɎ ȇƺɯɀِ

³ȒƬǣƏǼ ȅƺƳǣƏ IǣȇƳ ɖɀ Ȓȇ IƏƬƺƫȒȒǸً æ ٢ÁɯǣɎɎƺȸ٣ً XȇɀɎƏǕȸƏȅً çȒɖÁɖƫƺً ƏȇƳ nǣȇǸƺƳXȇِ

ƺ Ə ɮ ƺ ȸ ! Ȓ ɖ ȇ Ɏ ɵ ۴ ‫ ׎ ד ٮ ׎ א ׏ ד‬Ɏ ǝ ³ Ɏ ȸ ƺ ƺ Ɏ ً Ȓ ɴ ‫ « ً ׎ ג ׏‬ɵ Ǽ ƺ ɵ ً Á ‫ ׎ ג ׎‬۴ ‫ ׎ ב ו ב ٮ ב ה ה ٮ ׎ ז ו‬۴ ƫ ƺ Ə ɮ ƺ ȸ ِ Ə ƫ ِ Ƭ Ə

4 - Beaver County Chronicle, January 17, 2024

Water Supply Continued from BCC1

for Life program administered by Transportation and Economic Corridors funds for regional water and wastewater projects.

“The county may also want to consider Municipal Affairs’ M u n i c i p a l Sustainability Initiative fund,” she suggested.

The letter from Schultz stemmed from another from the county to Premier Danielle Smith outlining the county’s water needs concerns.

In the letter to Smith, the reeve stated that the county’s “current challenge of a secondary water supply to attract investment and development” was dis-

cussed with Energy Minister Brian Jean at the fall convention.

The county is upping the ante on its economic development drive and seeks to further develop its industrial parks, including Equity Industrial Park near Ryley, and the Viking/Beaver Industrial Park at Viking.

Increased volumes of water needed for commercial or industrial growth cannot happen through the Highway 14 regional waterline as this is at capacity, stated Smook. Neither can the agricultural producers get more water. The county is hearing from these producers who are worried about the possibility of drought in the area, “and dwindling water sources,” said Smook.

He called a secondary supply of water

“critical to the county’s efforts to diversify its agricultural base, encourage economic development and ensure public safety.

“We have requested Mr. Jean’s support to explore opportunities for reusing process water as well as expressed our willingness to champion and advocate with our municipal partners who face the same challenges,” Smoke stated in his letter dated Nov. 15, 2023.

Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver met with Smook and Tofield Mayor Deb Dueck on Dec. 4 to discuss the county’s concerns regarding its water supply and regional waterline capacity as it pertains to future industrial development.

“I encourage you to explore regional water

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infrastructure funding that may be available through Transportation and Economic Corridors programs,” said McIver in his Dec. 20, 2023 letter.

He also shared the letter with the Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n Minister Devin Dreeshen and Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely.

A special closed session of Beaver County Council took place on Jan. 10 to discuss the Highway 14 Regional Water Commission.

The discussion cannot be disclosed by those who attend the FOIP session.

But further discussions at county council this week are scheduled under FOIP (disclosure harmful to intergovernmental relations) regarding the Highway 14 water commission.

Alberta organizations receive $7.3 million to advance gender equality Brett McKay Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Alberta-based organizations working to build gender equality are getting a major funding boost from the federal government.

The Government of Canada will provide $7.3 million in new funding to 18 Albertabased and national organizations, Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, W o r k f o r c e Development and Official Languages, announced in Edmonton on Jan. 9.

The funding will be distributed by Women and Gender Equality

Canada, and is dedicated to four different project streams, including increasing the capacity of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations to address gender-based violence, community-based research, and 2SLGBTQI+ community capacity building.

"Working with grassroots organizations is how we will create, and sustain safe communities here in Alberta. It is the only way we understand the diverse challenges faced by Canadians, and how we can work better together to dismantle barriers," Boissonnault said.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - Page 9

Cold weather tips for winter drivers Kari Janzen Staff Reporter

Tofield has seen true Canadian weather this past week, with temperatures dipping as low as -45C. With the risk of frostbite occurring in minutes, it is important to ensure preparedness in the case of a roadside emergency. The Alberta government’s website suggests winterizing your vehicle by considering winter tires, packing an emergency kit, and keeping your fuel level above half.

“Winter or snow tires are specially designed for the low temperatures and snowy and icy conditions and provide better traction than regular or all-season tires.

All tire rubber stiffens as the weather gets colder, but the latest generations of winter tires maintain their elasticity even at ex-

Chamber of Commerce Continued from Page 3 working business. So he is able to bring products to the school, showcase these products, and show kids (and) teach them how to build.”

Shaade said the school also organizes several student trips.

“To further enrich their experience, we’ve organized memorable trips, fishing trips, overnight camping trips and ski trips,” she said. “They can work on team

tremely low temperatures approaching -30C and below, providing superior traction and grip.”

As for the emergency kit, it is suggested to have the following: “The emergency kit should include a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a blanket, a road map and compass, extra clothing and footwear, paper towel or rags, sand, road salt, flashlight with extra batteries, emergency food that won’t spoil (granola bars, nuts, or chocolate), an ice scraper and snow brush, a cell phone, a candle in deep tin, waterproof matches, a shovel, and booster cables.”

It is also recommended to keep the vehicle’s fuel tank over half full at all times.

“Keep your vehicle's gas tank more than half full of fuel to help reduce moisture in your fuel system. A topped-up gas tank also

adds extra weight to your vehicle and will help if you become stranded.”

As for being on the roads, it is suggested to use safe driving techniques, including slowing down, maintaining a further distance from vehicles, and never using cruise control in winter conditions.

“Posted speed limits are intended for ideal road conditions, and winter roads are not ideal, so slow down. You’re legally required to drive according to road conditions and can get a ticket if you don’t. When driving on slick roads allow at least three times the normal following distance, remember that bridge decks are often slicker than other parts of the highway due to greater temperature fluctuations, and on snow-covered roads try driving outside of the previous tire tracks for extra traction.”

building skills, adventure, and of course make great memories for when they get older.”

Shaade said that with the Ryley swimming pool located right next door to the school, swimming lessons are always on the agenda.

“We like to utilize that as much as possible, promote physical fitness, and the course teaches them an essential skill that everyone needs to use,” she said.

Shaade said the school is also grateful for a standing annual grant they received for the first time this year from Clean Harbours.

“We receive a very generous annual grant now (of) $30,000 every year. And as a result of that, all the sports and field trips are complimentary for our students. So that ensures equal access to all the experiences,” she said. “So (the students are) very fortunate at that school. (They can) come here and have breakfast, have lunch, have your own Chromebook, and everything is free. It's absolutely amazing.”

The Tofield and Area Chamber of Commerce meets the first Wed. of every month at the Beaverhill Lake Nature Centre Museum.

FOSTER, EMILY Emily Foster was born on November 16, 1928 at Viking, Alberta. Emily was the last of nine children born to August and Emelia Kelm.

Emily grew up on a farm near Bruce. In 1951, Emily met and married her Love, Rodger Foster. They raised four children on a farm near Bruce, Alberta.

Emily was a kind, loving, hardworking lady who was renowned for her laugh and her beautiful smile.

Emily is survived by her children: Daniel (Laurie), Gary (Julianne), David (Crystal), Sharon (Tim); 9 grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. Emily was predeceased by her husband of 71 years, Rodger, her parents August and Emilia, her siblings Ewald, Ida, Alma, Herb, Leo, Hilda, Arthur and Edward.

A memorial service will be held Friday, January 26, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Holden Community Hall at Holden, Alberta. Br. Gerry Wilkins officiating.

Zoom Access: I.D. 892 8021 7074 Passcode: Rev21:4

Weber Funeral Home 780-662-3959 www.weberfuneralhome.ca

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

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

Pr. Peter Beckman www.bardolutheranchurch.ca 780-662-2762 • 5907 - 49 Street 5609 48th St. - 780-662-3411 TOFIELD COMMUNITY CHURCH 4619 - 57 Ave

(780) 662-3 3166

Sunday Worship Service 10:30am www.tofieldchurch.com Lead Pastor:

Jon Stewart Children/Youth Pastor:

Nathan Nichols

Tofield United Church 4832 - 53 Ave, Tofield

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

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

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

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

Coffee and snacks after Mass, everyone welcome!

Contact Wendy @ 780-232-5300

Page 10 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - Page 11

REMEMBER WHEN Snowstorm canʼt stop Ukrainian buffet Mom, Nadya Sinasac, feeds baby Liam some of the delicious Ukrainian buffet at the Tofield Community Hall on Friday evening in honour of the New Year “Malanka.” The delicious supper made by Gretheʼs Kitchen and sponsored by the Tofield/Ryley Health Foundation was enjoyed by about a hundred who braved the snowy -30 temperatures.

This photo appeared in the Tofield Mercury on January 18, 2011.

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Page 12 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - Page 13

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Page 14 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Rural women face additional challenges with high demand for shelters Brett McKay Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Domestic abuse shelters in Alberta are increasingly being overwhelmed by requests for help, and have had to turn away thousands due to a lack of space or resources.

Data released by the Alberta Council of Women's Shelters (AWCS) shows shelters throughout the province answered over 59,000 calls for help last year, the highest demand recorded in a decade. Between 2022 and 2023, there was a 19 per cent increase in the number of people sheltered.

This rise in incidences of domestic violence stems in many ways from the impacts of the pandemic, ACWS Executive Director Jan Reimer said.

"Coming out of the pandemic, we anticipated an increase and indeed we are seeing an increase.

People felt more reluctant to seek help during a pandemic. We see more violence happening as a result of the pandemic. We knew it was coming," Reimer said.

Previous studies suggest an increase in demand for domestic violence support following pandemics and

natural disaster, "and Alberta has seen both."

"We've had fires. We've had floods. These have not been easy times for many Albertans."

Though demand for shelter space has surged everywhere, rural support services are coping with disproportionately high volumes and unique challenges.

Women in rural, remote, and northern communities experience rates of domestic violence 75 per cent higher than those in cities, and the violence is often more severe. About 18 per cent of Albertans live in rural areas, but more than 40 per cent of those who stayed in a shelter last year did so in small towns and rural areas.

Part of the reason rural women are at higher risk of domestic violence is because there are just fewer options for them in their communities, Reimer said.

And transportation costs are often prohibitive if someone chooses to leave.

"Where do you go when you're in a rural or remote community? And who can take you and how do you get there? All of these are really, really challenging," she said.

"Domestic violence is often more widespread

than we anticipate. And so many women are dealing with it, but there are not many places to go and if they do leave, they're leaving also a way of life if you're going to the city. Because it's a different way of life when you come to the city than it is living in a rural Alberta community."

ACWS is one of four organizations worldwide that can certify workers with the use of the Danger Assessment Tool developed at John Hopkins University, which assesses a survivors risk of being killed by a current or former partner. Nearly threequarters of survivors from small towns and rural areas were in severe or extreme danger of being killed, ACWS data shows.

Although demand has increased, in many cases funding and resources for domestic violence shelters have not. For every person who was sheltered last year, more than two had to be turned away due to a lack of space. Rural shelters were unable to take in 35 per cent more people this year than last, including children who arrive with survivors.

To deal with growing domestic violence in Alberta, the sector needs to

be stabilized, Reimer said.

The province has committed an additional $10 million over four years for women’s shelters, as well as $10 million over four years for sexual assault services, said Ashli Barrett, press secretary to the Minister of Children and Family Services.

"Children and Family Services is currently considering how to best invest this additional funding and is working with our partners, including the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters, to inform these decisions," Barrett said.

Even with funding shortfalls, shelters have been incredibly innovative in dealing with challenges in the province. Reimer said.

"If anyone knows how

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - Page 15

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Page 16 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Tofield 4-H Beef and Multi Club report a busy December Ruby Knudsen Club Reporter

The month of December was a busy one for the Tofield 4-H Beef and Multi Club.

We started the month off with our annual 4-H Turkey Bingo which was held at the Tofield Community Hall during Winter Fest.

On December 3, we had our monthly meeting reviewing feed-reports and girth tapes. We also discussed future events for our club.

On December 29 we had our Christmas party where we celebrated with skating, games and a potluck.

The 4-H club gathers at the Turkey Bingo.

Sweet year for honey producers Brett McKay Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

After a few years of exceptionally bad colony losses, conditions for beekeepers in Alberta are showing signs of improvement.

Honey production in the province was up 24 per cent in 2023, climbing to almost 37 million pounds from just under 30 million pounds last year, according to Statistics Canada.

About 92 million pounds of honey was produced throughout Canada this year, the highest levels recorded in five years.

Extreme cold snaps and mites caused record bee deaths in 2022 and put many beekeepers into a recovery phase, needing to build back up strong colonies which would be viable for honey production. With a mild spring, long hot summer, and — for some — ample moisture, it's no surprise 2023 was a banner year for producers, said Craig Toth, president of the Edmonton

and District Beekeepers Association, who produces honey is Sturgeon County.

"When the colonies are really hot, the queen inside the colony is laying more brood, so you have such a bigger increase of bees," he said. "In an area where there's lots of moisture, there's lots of nectar in the flowers. And if you get the hot days where the bees can do lots of flying, you're going to get lots of honey."

Though honey production as a whole increased last year, many regions were hit by drought, with over 20 municipalities declaring agricultural disasters this year.

Even county to county, beekeepers can have markedly different experiences. On his own land in Sturgeon County, Toth said honey production was down a lot, "but then I've spoken to a beekeeper in Fort Saskatchewan and this is one of his biggest banner years."

"I can definitely see with our great spring and the work from the previous years, there's a good

chance of higher numbers.

Compared to the last couple of years before that, just because of the superhigh losses, everybody was just trying to rebound and bring their colonies back up to snuff," Toth said.

There was $106 million in honey sales in Alberta in 2023, according to StatCan. That’s the highest number on record, with records going back to 1924.

At least part of the explanation for this year’s record-breaking honey sales lies with inflation, said Rob Roach, deputy chief economist at ATB Financial.

“I also think honey has a good reputation as being healthy,” Roach said.

“More local producers are selling it locally at farmers markets. That’s not new, but maybe that has picked up over time.”

Alberta produces more honey than any other Canadian province, according to StatCan. In 2023, it was responsible for 40 per cent of the country’s honey supply.

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