January 6 Weekly Review

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021

VOL. 44, No. 01

Page 2 - The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021

JANUARY The Viking RCMP reported their stats to Council to start the year. No homicides reported, property crimes reported to be up by 57 per cent. Cpl. Brad Mouland stated that when numbers are so low, it skews the numbers making the percentages look quite high compared to the year before. “Viking is quite a bit the same from year to year,” he said. “We may have a small spike (in an offence category) once in a while.”

The Village of Holden passed a bylaw that will raise 2020 sewer rates by Jan. 1, garbage rates remain unaffected. Small and rural communities will also provide $286 million over five years for an increase in rural police funding.

The Irma Female Midget Aces lost their first game all season, 4-3 against Wainwright in Provost. The Aces had held a 3-1 lead until late in the second period. The home team tied the game with less than five minutes in the final period and then took the lead with only 1:32 on the clock.

Despite contributing to the increased rural policing budget, Beaver County is not expected to get any additional officers in their two detachments. Killam and Viking detachments recently began teaming up to answer calls in both detachment areas, which will save money.

A highlight of the Viking Gas Kings Initiation Tournament last Saturday was a visit by Hunter the Lynx, the official mascot of the Edmonton Oilers. Players crowded around the mascot following the end of two games at the Viking Carena Complex.

MLA Jackie Lovely met with Doug Schweitzer, Minister of Justice and Solicitor General, to discuss the initial plan to combat rural crime. The plan includes measures to deter crime, reinforce property rights, give victims a stronger voice in the justice system, and put 400 more first responders in place.

Three members of the Viking 4-H Beef Club had the opportunity to represent their club at the Medicine Hat Beef Pen show with their 4-H Heifer's, where there were 105 open and bred heifers and steer entries coming from 20 different clubs across Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Security Cameras were decided as not the answer to recent break-ins at the Bruce Community Centre, which houses the Post Office and the Seniors' Centre.

County Council discussed the costs of the high resolution imaging cameras, and agreed that $10,000-$16,000 cameras were not enough for proof of conviction

of criminals in the justice system, and that cheaper cameras can do the same job. “I think we'd be better off spending our money lobbying politicians rather than putting up cameras,” said councillor Barry Bruce.

BRSD Trustees are working hard to finalize next year's budgets. The board must grapple with issues like lower enrollment, changes in provincial funding, and increased insurance premiums.

With a deficit of $4 million, the board says additional reductions will be necessary.

Sidewalk shovelling became a contentious issue at Viking Council, with some members feeling the policy needed to be re-evaluated. Eight to 10 $100 tickets were issued less than 24-hours after snowfall even though the current policy allows for 48-hours to clear snow. Many council members felt that allowances need to be made depending on the temperature and windchill. The tickets ended up being cancelled by the town.

A full day of minor hockey held at the Viking Carena was a hit to celebrate a special “Hockey Day.” The day featured a progressive 50/50 and concession specials, and teams from all over Beaver County.

The Holden 4-H Club started their year with a tire recycling fundraiser, and were thankful for a sunny day and good weather. The Club also made a trip to Rogers Place to watch the Edmonton Oil Kings and had a chance to give players high-fives on their way back to the ice.

A New Year's baby, Ryker William Slater, was born at the Viking Health Centre at 5:09 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 3, to parents Sandra Fasek and William Slater from Ranfurly. The mother and baby received many gifts from the Viking Health Centre Auxiliary.

The Junior High Vixens basketball team had a fun and successful weekend attending the Mid-Season Shootout Tournament at Ryley. They won the Consolation Championship after a 56-36 victory over Round Hill.

MLA Jackie Lovely says a farmer-led research meeting on Jan. 21 in Camrose was highly successful. Similar meetings were held across the province to “ensure agricultural research in Alberta is led by farmers and that Albertans are getting the best results for their investment.”

Dana Ewashko is looking for justice for his mother after she passed from complications with a UTI while in residence in Viking Extendicare. Dana hopes to address the issue of for-profit nursing home care after staff failed to give Dana's

mother the medical attention she needed.

FEBRUARY Sandy Erickson stands next to the cupboards at the Golden Valley Lutheran Church displaying the Fair Trade products available to purchase through the church women's group. She holds two of the favourite items in her hands: a Fair Trade chocolate bar and a package of Bolivian coffee.

Strathcona County informed the Highway 14 Regional Water Services Commission that a $0.02 increase in the water rates charged by Epcor began as of Jan. 1, 2020. Notice from the commission came in February via a bill. Dana Ewashko says the water commission has had trouble in the past getting advance notice from Epcor of an impending water increase.

January was a busy month for RCMP, with incidents including a break-in in Kinsella and one west of Bruce, a claim of dogs being sold as purebred when they really weren't.

BRSD announced at a meeting that Holden school will likely be closed. The decision was made for Ryley and Holden schools should be consolidated into one K-9 team. This sparked outrage from many parents, especially when no opportunity for follow-up questions was given to those in attendance.

The Viking Agricultural Society is searching for new members to keep the society viable. David Lefsrud says that five or eight volunteers just isn't enough to pull off the Ag Society's events. After announcing that if support was not gathered the Ag Society would have to sell off it's assets, a total of 12 board members were named, with more welcome to join.

The Viking Skating Club now has a jump harness as part of their practicing routine to help hone their skills on the ice. The harness has been in the works for quite a while, the main issue being finding a place in the Carena where the beams could be placed safely. The harness was installed on Jan. 30 by Bird Bros with assistance from Skully's Oilfield Services.

The Brettzky Hockey Challenge raised over $100,000 fro Viking Organizations, and donated $45,000 to 17 local groups supporting Viking youth sports and activities and groups contributing to the wellness of the Viking community. The Viking Skating Club, Battle River Sharks, Viking Hornets Volleyball, and Viking Dance Inspirations were among those to receive funding.

The Town of Viking put on another successful Family Day Event. The cold weather limited the outdoor activities, but those who came out still enjoyed games, food, and beverages at the Carena, as well as some free public skating. The event ran 11-2, and was sponsored by the Viking/Beaver FCSS, Beaver County Community Adult Learning, the Viking Lions, and the Town of Viking.

In 2019, the Viking and Holden Area Food Bank gave out a record breaking 174 hampers. The previous record, 172, was set in 2016. 2019's record comes after two years of decreasing use. The food bank is trying to decide if recent changes in hamper distribution are the start of a new trend or a random spike.

Information on the food bank is available at www.vhfoodbank.com, through any

local church, or through FCSS. The Viking Red Cup Bonspiel was another success. The event was held at the Viking Curling Club on Feb. 7 and 8.

The Ray Rattray team won the A event, the Viking High School team won the B event, the Daggan Maxwell team took the C event, and the Chad Bowen team won the D event.

Viking resident Sonya Maxwell was the lucky winner of the 2020 Viking AG Foods Great Grocery Giveaway. She spent 60 seconds grabbing as many food items as she could, including some dog food for her four-legged friends. Her total came to $481.12, just under the $500 limit allowed by the contest.

Jeff Bird, the coach of the VikingHolden Novice says the decision by Hockey Alberta to not keep scores is a good thing as skill development is one of the most important things for younger players. Bird says he'd rather see a goal with two or three good passes first rather than an unassisted breakaway.

The Irma Skating club took to the ice in their annual carnival, this year titled 'A Skate Down TV Memory Lane.' The stands were full of proud family and friends as these talented skaters showed off their moves to different TV and movie themes, such as Footloose, Grease, Shrek, and many more.

The Rural Outreach Agricultural Renaissance Society is hosting a bumblebee house building workshop. The goal was to raise awareness around the importance of pollinators in all kinds of agriculture. Refreshments and all materials, except for a screwdriver or drill, were provided.

MARCH The installation of new solar panels to fill the Town of Viking's energy needs has begun. Mayor Jason Ritchie reports that 2,500 solar panels are being installed in the town's eastern industrial area by Dandelion Renewables. The goal is to have the project completed by the end of March, and it's expected to have a 30 year profit of $3,750,000 before expenses.

This year’s Ag Safety Week will run March 15-21. This years theme is “Safe and Strong Farms: Grow and AgSafe Canada,” and is the second of a three year campaign. The aim of the campaign is to empower farmers, farm families, and farming communities to build, grow, and lead.

Four communities whose schools are under threat of closure by BRSD had an opportunity on Feb. 27 in Camrose to make presentations to the board of trustees in support of their schools.

Communication between the school board and communities and general organization of BRSD were some of the main issues brought up by community representatives.

Everyone enjoyed a flashback to a fun and colourful era at this year's ice carnival. It was “Back to the '80s” for the Viking Skating Club, who entertained the crowd with songs from the era and lots of costumers that included big hairdos and flouncy clothing and skirting to remind everyone how it used to be when artists like Cindy Lauper, Michael Jackson, The Bangles, and Kiss ruled the airwaves.

The RCMP had the chance to hear from upset residents at a “Meet with the See YEAR IN REVIEW P3

The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021 - Page 3

2020 Year in Review Continued from Page 2

RCMP” meeting at the Bruce Seniors Centre, who are dealing with property crimes in their area. It was also a chance for RCMP to demonstrate their new Trace Pen technology and answer residents' questions and concerns.

A $770k surplus from the Beaver Emergency Services Commission (BESC) prompted the Beaver County Council to ask for a financial review. The surplus comes from BESC not reconciling actual figures for the actual payment at the end of the year.

Viking and Killam RCMP detachments are part of a police investigation after a vehicle chase involving multiple detachments left two suspects seriously injured.

Detachments including Viking/Killam, Vegreville, and Tofield attempted to contain the suspects vehicle. The investigation will focus on the actions of police during this incident while the RCMP will maintain responsibility for the investigation into the circumstances leading up to the accident.

Premier Jason Kenney declared a state of public health emergency in Alberta as a way of enabling provincial authorities to respond under the Public Health Act to the COVID-19 pandemic. Events with more than 50 people in attendance were banned, and restrictions were placed on many other aspects of life, including restaurants, public and private recreational and entertainment facilities. There was a total of 97 cases identified in the province.

Nine members of the Adrenaline Tae Kwon Do Club in Viking took part in the Alberta Provincials for ITF Tae Kwan Do in Calgary, Alberta. The tournament was held at the Genesis Centre with over 400 competitors in attendance. Many members of the club did quite well across all age categories.

The Viking and Holden food bank adjusted their security measures and hours of operation in order to best serve the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

They encourage anyone who has been placed in quarantine to make use of the food bank if necessary, and all hampers will be delivered by volunteers to limit the number of people inside the food bank at a time.

The final decision is made by BRSD to close the Holden school. Trustees also voted to consolidate grades K-9 at Ryley and relocate Ryley high school students, as well as making the decision to close Allan Johnstone school in Hardisty. The motion to close Round Hill school was defeated, same as the option to keep the Ryley high school open.

BRSD votes to close Holden School trustees also vote to consolidate Grades K through 9 at Ryley, relocate Ryley high school students, close Hardisty School Leslie Cholowsky Staff Reporter

Battle River School Division Board trustees voted on Thursday, March 19, on three motions for closure; affecting Round Hill School, Ryley and Holden Schools, and Allan Johnstone School.

The final result of the vote was for Round Hill School to remain open; for Ryley and Holden to consolidate into one school with Grades K through 9, closing the High School, and moving everything into the Ryley site, closing Holden School; and for Allan Johnstone School in Hardisty to close, eff. June 30.

Since the division office was closed to the public due to the pandemic, the meeting was streamed live via YouTube.

Beaver County Reeve Jim Kallal says, “As you can imagine, Beaver County Council was disappointed with the decision of the School closure in Holden and the consolidation with Ryley.”

Trustees had an opportunity to speak briefly prior to each vote, some chose to address each decision separately, while others indicated a desire to speak once to all three votes.

Laurie Skori from Flagstaff County East said, “This decision is that of the Board of Trustees and ours alone,” adding that it was administration’s job to provide the information necessary to make a decision, and that in her eyes, administration works tirelessly for students and staff in the division.

Beaver East trustee Zsuzsanna Hemperger spoke before the Round Hill vote. She thanked the public for all the presentations submitted to the board, and division staff for all their work, as well as her fellow trustees. “These are hard decisions; we all have lost sleep over them.”

She implored parents, students, and communities to believe in the division, and to keep their children in BRSD schools.

“I ask you to trust us; to have faith in local teachers and their abilities in being able to handle what comes next, and I’m asking you to do the same.”

Kendall Severson, Trustee for Camrose County South said, “The decisions that we have to make today are huge and will impact many families. I myself have not been sleeping well as this weighs heavily on me. I would like to thank all the communities for their creative presentations and the time that has been invested into creative new ways to educate kids.

“As the longest-serving member on this board, I have had to take part in several of these closure meetings over the years and none are ever easy.

“Regardless of the way votes go today, our students

are resilient, and will continue to have success in the years ahead.”

Jeff Kimball, from Flagstaff County West, said his thoughts echo those of his fellow trustees, thanking all communities for their presentations; in their uniting and bringing these communities to the forefront in showing their solidarity.

“None of this is easy, by no means, whatever decision is made today, there will always be consequences to that. I look at our mission statement as a school board/division, we are supposed to work in cooperation with our communities to support students for long learning and contributing member of society.”

Karen Belich, Camrose County North, said, “We are all aware of the declining number of students in communities all across Alberta and Canada.”

She spoke about how she had reviewed all the information brought forward from both the division and the community presentations, as well as results of the Thought Exchange survey done by the division, and all other correspondence regarding the motions. “I reviewed all of it thoroughly and in doing so there have been many things to consider. These are extremely difficult decisions to make but I do believe that it is our responsibility to do so.”

Board Chair Norm Erickson praised all the communities for their positive presentations.

“Our mandate in the BRSD is to make sure all students are giving the opportunities to receive a complete

education and at the same time be fiscally responsible.”

Erickson indicated that he would be basing his decision on what he thinks is best for all BRSD students.

Erickson said he looked at programming, financing, utilization rates, and bus travel times, taking all into consideration.

“I’m going to be basing my decisions, for the most part, on what I believe is the most important thing for our students, and that is going to turn out to be front line workers. I believe that education comes from the people in front of the students, and that is more important to me as a person.

“They are tough decisions. We know the fiscal realities of the next three years and it’s a tough, tough, tough decision.”

The motion to close Round Hill School was defeated, it will remain open.

As the next motion was being introduced, to relocate Grades 10 through 12 at Ryley School, and the consolidation of Ryley and Holden School at one school site, serving Kindergarten through Grade 9, Hemperger asked for an amendment to the motion, asking to make Ryley School to have K through Grade 12.

Clarification had her confirm that she was asking for Ryley students from K to 12 be consolidated with Holden School, leaving the high school open.

Skori noted that a high school program with 30 kids would be “extremely hard to deliver,” saying she was See BRSD P10

The Flagstaff Regional Airport and Iron Creek Flying Club have formed a new partnership that has brought tourism and recognition to the area. One of the highlights was a visit from the Snowbirds, made possible because of a last minute cancella-

tion, with a meet and greet held the night before the performance.. It's estimated that anywhere from 3,500 to 5,000 people saw the Flagstaff Snowbirds perform.

The Town of Viking granted a business tax incentive to Shiv Dutt, owner of the Viking St. Francis Childcare Ltd. The business will be located in the former pharmacy building, but the completion date of renovations has been pushed back due to COVID-19. Once opened the daycare can take up to 70 children.

APRIL Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Holden Village office has closed it's doors to the public, with administration working from home and public works employees working as needed. The notice of closing also included a warning regarding a group of youths that had been seen hanging around encouraging them to follow social distance guidelines.

MP Damien Kurek hosted a virtual town hall to discuss COVID-19 among other issues. He urged viewers to continue practicing good hygiene and thanked healthcare workers across the province. He assured constituents that he would also continue to push back on the increase in carbon tax rates and urged everyone to reach out to his office with any questions or concerns.

The Beaver Foundation Chair said that the increase in restrictions around senior care being introduced by Dr. Hinshaw are making more work for long-term care staff.

Gene Hrabec says that adding staff isn't an option due to the costs associated. He also outlined the difficulties rural areas face when it comes to getting the supplies mandated by AHS. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic threatens to cancel June events. Vikings most prominent events, like Vikings in the Streets and the Cloverlodge Stampede, are usually held in mid-June but this schedule may have to change depending on how the pandemic progresses.

The local food bank had to make some more adjustments because of COVID-19, including letting many of the volunteers go to minimize risk of infection. All food hampers continue to be delivered with no one stepping inside a home. Donation rates have also dropped which is an added challenge for the food bank.

Members of Beaver County wrote an open letter to the Minister of Education and MLA Jackie Lovely pleading to reverse the decision to close Holden and Ryley schools.

This decision was made by Battle River School Division on March 19, 2020. The letter outlines fears that students will opt to leave the county for school altogether, as well as questions around the decision to leave Round Hill school open.

In-person classes were cancelled on March 16 because of the pandemic, and students and teachers are facing learning curves as they adjust to online schooling.

The most common terms Viking teachers are using are now “flexibility, patience, support.” Principal Adam Madsen says that teachers work closely with students and parents to make sure learning is still possible despite the circumstances.

The Viking Municipal Library closed due to COVID-19, so Librarian Barb Chrystian has been working hard to keep readers engaged. She introduced “Are you smarter than a Librarian” trivia questions on Facebook. Chrystian posted a different question each day, with prizes available for K-12 students who get the correct answer.

E-books and audio books are available on the library's website even though the doors remain closed.

Premier Jason Kenney thanked local

newspapers for continuing to keep rural areas not reached by other media informed.

He also extended appreciation for AHS workers, who are doing their best to make space in emergency rooms and stay ahead of the virus.

A failure by Fortis to put in the correct equipment at the solar panel site faces further delays as Viking waits for a large “lake” to dry up. The water has come from spring melt and runoff and poses quite the issue as the town waits for a transformer pad and fence to be installed at the site before it can begin producing.

School districts across the province, including BRSD, will be letting support staff go due to the reallocation of education funds towards COVID-19. Viking School is set to let go two support staff, though this decision did not come lightly.

Fundraising to replace the Vialta Lodge Gazebo, which will cost roughly $50,000, is already well underway. So far $40,385 has been raised. The current gazebo is a pergola style with only a fabric cover on the top to provide protection from the elements.

The new project will include skylights and a shingled roof.

The sixth annual Brettzky's Hockey Challenge has been cancelled because of the provincial COVID-19 guidelines.

Earlier this year, the committee donated $45,000 to 17 different local organizations.

They now look forward to putting on next years event and hope to continue to attract support.

The Alberta SPCA reached out to pet owners who may be financially struggling in the pandemic. Their goal is to help owners care for their animals before they become distressed. They pointed out that shelters are at limited capacity so it makes sense to help owners in anyway they can before it reaches the point where animals are surrendered.

Viking updated their response plan to comply with current health concerns arising from the global COVID-19 crisis. Some items discussed by the council include the option of deferring property taxes and putting together a virtual “thank-you” to volunteers in the community.

MAY

Cruising Car Show a big hit Patricia Harcourt Editor

The day was sunny and bright for the Cruising Car Show held last Saturday afternoon by the Viking Historical Society.

People of all ages lined the streets to watch the giant procession of vehicles, also ranging from vintage to more contemporary in all kinds of colours.

There were 41 cars, trucks, and emergency vehicles starting from the muster point at the Viking Carena Complex, but the long line that proceeded into town seemed much bigger and impressive.

Perhaps it had something to do with the fact that this was basically the only event to take place in Viking in over two months, with the COVID-19 pandemic restricting activities resulting in the cancellation of many of the town's expected festivities this spring and summer.

There was also the factor of having so far a decidedly cold spring,

so last weekend's warmer and sunnier climates had everyone coming out to socialize - from a proper distance - and watch the parade of vehicles go past.

Mike Lawes, President of the Viking Historical Society, was very pleased with the results as the vehicles winded up and down the local streets and people waved from their lawns and sidewalks.

The show was designed "to break the monotony of staying home every day and because a lot of activities happening in Viking have had to be cancelled," he said.

He credited the idea for the show to society member Clint Nearing, also a town councillor.

"It was Clint who brought it up as a way to have an event and still have the proper social distancing," he said.

The show appeared to wake up the townspeople, many of whom remained outside and spoke to friends and neighbours they usually don't see in this time of shutdowns and social distancing.

The Viking Historical Society hosted a Cruising Car Show which featured a procession of 41 cars, trucks, and emergency vehicles ranging from classic to more contemporary models. The event attracted people of all ages, who lined the streets in what was one of the only events hosted in Viking for nearly two months.

Bus route and school schedule changes are finally solidified bu BRSD following their earlier decision to close Holden school consolidate Holden and Ryley schools.

Viking's graduation ceremony has also been cancelled due to the pandemic and the limits on gatherings imposed by the province.

Local area schools will continue to be taught at home using online methods until the end of the school year in June.

However, officials have begun the process of developing a plan to get students back in the classroom this fall. The government's re-entry plan will prioritize the safety and well-being of teachers, staff, and students.

Frontline workers will be saluted in a drive-by display of thanks from local fire departments, ambulance and RCMP and county peace officers. The drive will begin in Tofield and will continue to Ryley, Holden, and Viking. Citizens are also invited to make some noise as well to show their support for health workers.

Both Viking and Irma schools are planning ways to honour the graduating class of 2020 despite the limits in place because of COVID-19. Irma graduates decided to drive down Main Street and well-wishers could gather on the sidewalks. Viking opted to postpone their graduation rather than cancel it completely.

Another appreciation drive by for front line healthcare workers took place with great success on May 14th. Many community members were able to come out, socially distanced of course, and show their appreciation for those working on the front lines of the pandemic.

Following a recent outbreak of COVID19 at meat packing plants in the province, the Alberta government has launched a new program designed to provide training support for agriculture workers to help keep food supplies safe. Up to $5 million in support for farmers, agri-businesses, and food processors is being promised by the provincial and federal governments. This money will train new employees safely and provide up to 2,500 jobs.

RCMP officers introduced a virtual visit for “Operation Lock Up” to provide crime prevention tips. This is an alternative to inperson visits like had been done in the past.

People are encouraged to use social media to ask any questions and send pictures to get safety tips from RCMP. The Village of Irma celebrated its grads with a driving procession down Main Street while residents waved, honked, took photos, and gave their congratulations to grads. While this ceremony was a huge success, there is still hope for another more traditional ceremony to take place later in the year.

The Town of Viking granted $10k to the Viking Health Foundation to use towards the recruitment of new physicians. Part of the money will already be used to cover the overhead costs of the recent recruitment of Dr. Cornelius Niemand, who will start in mid-May. BRSD Board of Trustees have approved their 2020-2021 budget, saying it was a challenge what with the decreasing student population and still facing increasing costs.

It was reported that because of a previous shortfall, the division needs to find $6 million or be ready to make more extensive cuts in the up coming year.

Irma Grads take victory lap Patricia Harcourt Editor

Village of Irma grads were celebrated last Friday with a procession down Main Street as residents waved, honked, took pictures and shouted their congratulations.

With the theme, "Small Town, Big Dreams," the 14 members of the graduating class for 2020 includes Tryten Archibald, Brayden Armitage, Kirti Bagga, Josh Challenger, Tyson Crawford, Jason Glasgow, Easton Gwinn, Steven King, Cassy Larson, Haley Larson, Macie Larson, Harrison Lawson, Chase Squires and Jordan Venema.

Each grad drove in a vehicle for the procession in keeping with the social distancing rules that prevented the usual ceremonies in the school.

This was the first class to graduate out of the newly built school in Irma which just opened last September.

The class had been looking forward to their role as the first class to use the new auditorium for their ceremony, which begins with a processional to the stage.

This year, however, they improvised a processional using vehicles on the day originally chosen for their grad.

The procession ended back at the school with photos taken of the grads lined up in front of their cars in front of the building. More photos were taken with grads standing beside their photos showcased on the school's front windows.

The excitement didn't begin and end there, though.

All week, the teachers had been busy conducting parades to each graduate's house, going to about two per day, which was initially a closely guarded secret to gain the element of surprise.

The teachers arrived in a parade of vehicles, horns honking while shouting their well wishes. The grads were presented flowers and balloons, and a wooden box made by Principal Darren Grosky which the teachers filled with gifts.

Mr. Grosky and Ms. Thomson made signs with enlarged photographs of each grad that were set out on their lawns stating: "An Irma School Class of 2020 Graduate Lives Here!"

Then the grads did their vehicle processional down main street on Friday afternoon. It started with a gathering of teachers and grads at the bus loop on the school grounds. The drive by was a way for the school and community to recognize each student.

But there is also the hope of another more traditional graduation ceremony taking place later in the year. And the grads are saving their fancy dress clothes for that time, hopefully in the fall, when family and friends can come together to help mark this important milestone in their lives.

Grad Kirti Bagga is one of 14 grads who was honoured with a parade to her home last week. All were presented with flowers, balloons, and gifts from Principal Darren Grosky, and others.

The Irma community came out en masse to greet and congratulate the graduates who drove in separate vehicles down main street last Friday as a procession honouring their milestone.

Check out Part 2 in next week’s edition.

Page 4 - The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021

Opinion LETTERS

TEMPORARY OPEN OFFICE HOURS/DAYS DUE TO COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS

a special time of the year. You showed a conscience and did your part to flatten the curve.

You also showed more leadership than many of our Elected Officials, who chose to ignore the advice to avoid non-essential travel, advice from Dr. Hinshaw and the Provincial Government.

Albertans deserve and expect better from those in leadership roles.

Thank you for doing your part during this pandemic.

Office OPEN: Mon & Wed 9-3 Thur 9-5 Office CLOSED Tuesday & Friday

Kevin Smook Beaver County

Poem for a dreadful year The year of 2020 has come and gone, and we can't go back again.

The year has been filled with challenges and sadness from beginning to end.

The sun is here to heal our hearts, and when the wind blows, we bend.

Patience is what we wish for the world, for our family and our

Email news@weeklyreview.ca or mail to Box 240, Viking, AB, T0B 4N0, All letters must be signed by their author.

WEEKLY REVIEW

Reader: thank you to Albertans for following the rules THANK YOU to our friends and family and all residents who showed a conscience and did the right thing by staying home this Christmas.

We were supposed to have 12 at our place, but scaled it back to just the two of us.

Our parents, brother and family, and daughter all cancelled flights from BC. They stayed home to FLATTEN THE CURVE. Same with our kids who live in Edmonton. We missed being together this year, but we did this because it was the right thing to do.

For all of us, it meant we couldn't be close to many of our loved ones during

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friends.

We must isolate and quarantine, while this insufferable virus trends.

We wish happiness, health, and safety, for all ye good women and men.

We will get together sometime soon, but no one knows just when.

Jean Child

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The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021 - Page 5

Word on the Street: RCMP busy over holidays Church Services

On December 14, police received a complaint of a theft of fuel from a rural property southeast of Viking. The complainant advised he had witnessed the suspect vehicle leaving his property and followed it to Kinsella. Members from Viking and Killam Detachments both attended Kinsella and located the vehicle in question, parked and vacant. It was the same vehicle that was connected to a break and enter in Hardisty that morning and had fled from police earlier in the day when they attempted to conduct a traffic stop on it.

Two suspects were located a short time later and taken into custody, 29year-old Nicholas Krock from Red Deer is facing nine criminal charges including four charges of possession of stolen property, flight from a peace officer, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, theft under $5000 and fail to comply with a release order condition. The female passenger was released without charge. Krock will be appearing in Killam Provincial Court in January to answer to his charges.

On December 15, police conducted a curfew check on a female who is on house arrest at a residence in Viking.

Thirty eight-year-old Rachel Lake was not at the residence and she has been charged accordingly. A warrant has been issued for her arrest.

On December 17, police received a call for assistance as a male was suffering from mental health issues and was hiding in the basement of a home. Police attended and transported the male to a health facility for treatment.

That night, police received a complaint of a dispute at residence in Viking. The complainant advised she was trying to move out but her common-law partner wouldn’t give her the car keys.

Members attended and mediated the situation.

There were no grounds to proceed with any

charge.

On December 18, police received a complaint of fraudulent transactions on a bank account.

The complainant advised that two CERB cheques had been deposited into her account and then withdrawn. This matter is still under investigation.

That afternoon, a citizen contacted police to advise that over the past two evenings, an unknown person dressed in a dark coat and hat had attended his residence, rang his doorbell and then left. Police have no suspects.

That same day, police received a report of a suspicious vehicle that had attended a business in Bruce during the night and seemed to be scoping it out. Surveillance video was obtained however, police were unable to positively identify the vehicle.

That night, police received a complaint of an erratic driver eastbound on Highway 14.

The complainant advised he had been westbound on the highway when he met an oncoming vehicle travelling in his lane. The suspect vehicle then moved to the westbound shoulder to avoid a collision with the complainant.

Police made patrols but

were unable to locate the vehicle in question.

Later that night, police received a complaint of a possible theft of gas from a rural property southeast of Viking. The complainant advised a truck had driven onto her property and then left.

She was unable to provide a description of the vehicle in question.

Patrols were made in the area, however, no vehicles were located.

On December 23, police received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle driving slowly down a back alley in Viking. The vehicle had stopped behind a garage for a short period of time and then drove away.

The complainant called back a short time later to advise he believed he knew who had been driving the vehicle and they were probably looking for their dog.

On December 26, police located a stolen trailer at rural location southeast of Viking. The investigation into this matter is ongoing.

That afternoon, police received a complaint of a theft of a ride-on mower from a shed in Bruce.

This matter is still under investigation.

On December 29, police received a complaint of a break and enter at a business in

Kinsella.

The complainant advised culprits had pried open a door, rifled through filing cabinets and other drawers, and then stole three flashlights. Police have no suspects at this time.

That afternoon, police received a complaint of trespassing and mischief at a rural property south of Viking. The complainant advised someone had broke his front gate and driven on his property but nothing appeared to be missing.

Police have no suspects.

On December 30, police received a complaint of a break and enter at a business in Kinsella that had occurred sometime over the previous week. This matter is still under investigation.

That afternoon, police received a complaint of a break and enter at an oilfield wellsite north of Viking. The break in had occurred sometime over the previous week.

Culprits pried open a door and stole property valued at just under $5,000. Police have no suspects.

On December 31, police received a complaint of a theft of a truck that had occurred overnight in Viking. The complainant advised his truck also contained a See RCMP P7

For January 2021 Golden Valley Lutheran Church Pastor Alvin Sorenson - Office: 780-336-3155 Office Hours: Mon. - Thur: 9:00am - noon Sunday Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Roman Catholic Family Father Robert Lee Office: 780-336-3382 Viking: 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month mass will be at 11:15 a.m. 2nd and 4th Saturday - 6:30 p.m.

If there is a 5th Sunday, mass will be at 9 a.m.

Holden: Saturday, 1st, 3rd, and 5th, 6:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2nd and 4th, 9 a.m.

Vegreville: Saturday: 4:30 p.m. 1st and 3rd Sunday at 9 a.m. 2nd and 4th Sunday at 11:15 a.m. If the month has a 5th week, service will be Saturday at 4:30 p.m

United Church Rev. Scott Reynolds - Office: 780-336-3103 Viking: Sunday School- 9 a.m. Sunday Worship- 9 a.m.

Irma: Sunday Worship 11 a.m. Sunday School 11 a.m.

Viking Alliance Church Rev. Paul Warnock - Office:

780-336-4950

Sunday Worship: 10:45 a.m.

www.vikingalliancechurch.com

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NOTICE OF ROAD CLOSURE January 5 to14, 2021 Please note that the north service road entrance (by the Shell) will be closed for the period January 5 to January 14, 2021.

The closure is necessary to allow new culvert installation work by the Town contractor.

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Page 6 - The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021

Alberta seeing COVID declines after December peaks Eric Anderson Publisher

With the holiday season came a drop in reported COVID-19 cases across the province, according to Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Deena Hinshaw.

While overall testing also went down around Christmas and New Year’s, hospitalizations and ICU admissions have decreased, indicating an encouraging sign after weeks of heavy restrictions.

Alberta reported 843 new cases on Tuesday, Jan. 5 (reporting Monday’s numbers), with 13,411 listed as active and 91,799 now recovered.

This is a positive sign after the province’s second wave peaked at nearly 2,000 new cases per day and over 20,000 active in mid-December.

Locally, numbers of infections have remained roughly the same as pre-Christmas levels, with no signs of a major outbreak at this time.

As of Tuesday, Beaver County reported 15 active cases with three in Beaver County east and 12 in the west. Flagstaff County reported 10 active, MD of Wainwright 11, County of Minburn 29, and Camrose County (including

City of Camrose) reported 77.

In mid-December, the provincial government put in place strict measures that, among other things, prohibited non-household gatherings and travel during Christmastime. Not all Albertans followed these restrictions - including some high level government officials - raising concerns that a rebound in numbers could be forthcoming.

With Christmas now being over 11 days ago (at press time), so far the numbers remain encouraging.

Active hospitalizations and ICU admissions are still too high, Hinshaw said in her Tuesday press conference, and continue to put a strain on the public health system at large.

There were 919 Albertans still in hospital fighting COVID symptoms, with 140 in ICU as of Tuesday.

Unfortunately, the high number of daily deaths has not stabilized, as 1,168 Albertans have now lost their lives due to complications of the infection. For comparison’s sake, that’s over 600 more deaths than were reported on Dec. 1.

CBC’s Robson Fletcher noted on his Twitter account in early December an alarming spike in new cases among the elderly, predicting at the

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS Nominations are now being accepted for the Board of Directors of Vision Credit Union Ltd. What does a Vision Credit Union Board Director do?

1. Represent the interest and concerns of the Vision Credit Union membership 2. Participate in policy and strategic planning 3. Monitor policy adherence 4. Work in co-operation with Vision CU executive management 5. Attend Board meetings nine times per year (or additionally as required) Don’t have a business degree or work experience in the financial industry?

We do not have an exact resume for the ideal Director. We aim to develop a Board that represents a wide range of skills, experience and interests. However, Board candidates must meet the following criteria: •Be bondable •Have a positive credit rating •Must be considered an active credit union member exemplified through monthly transaction account •Must not be employed by a competing financial institution •Must not be in violation of any Vision Credit Union policies or bylaws •Be a Canadian citizen or a person who has been lawfully admitted into Canada for permanent residence •Must not be a spouse or close relative of an employee or director of the Credit Union •Submit an application for nomination (supported by five members) •Provide an updated resume

The interests of the members of Vision Credit Union are overseen by the members’ elected representatives on the Board of Directors. The active participation of these Directors has been a major asset to your credit union.

Nominations for a position representing the following areas with three-year terms are now being accepted.

Camrose/Daysland/Killam/ Sedgewick - one position Vegreville/Two Hills - one position Wetaskiwin - one position La Crete/Manning - one position Nomination forms are now available at Vision Credit Union branch offices.

The deadline for nominations is January 22, 2021.

time that this could result in a large increase in deaths. Alberta’s daily death counts now remain near the highest levels since the pandemic began.

According to the Alberta government’s COVID statistics website, the average age of COVID death is 82, while the average age for hospitalization is 63 and average age hospitalized with an ICU stay is 59. The youngest reported person to die in Alberta was 23.

BOTTLE DRIVE Sunday, January 10 Viking Grad 2021 Fundraiser

Viking Residents: please leave your bottles/cans on front step by 10am for pick-up.

Rural Residents & Businesses: Please contact a Grad Student to arrange pick-up or drop-off.

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780-385-3598

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Serving Town & Country since 1962 Open Hours: 9-6 Mon thru Fri, 9-4 Saturday & Closed Sunday.

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

Order Printing LOCALLY! • Business Cards • Raffle Tickets • Forms • Envelopes Tofield Mercury & Weekly Review

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Chronicle The Beaver County

A Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County Wednesday, December 2020,Volume Volume Issue 51 Wednesday, January16, 6, 2021, 14,13, Issue 1

5 year financial plan passed as info item Patricia Harcourt As required by the Municipal Government Act, Beaver County Council accepted a five-year financial (operating) and five-year capital plan at the Dec. 16 regular meeting.

The documents were formulated by the county’s Director of Finance Ed Bujnowicz and Assistant CAO Margaret Jones.

This is the county’s second in two years, as mandated by the new MGA. “The provincial funding follows the recent announcements or remains at the current level,” said the report. “The MSI operating and

MSI capital grants have been reduced by 25 per cent for 2021 and remain at these levels (in the projections) to 2025.

“The MSI initiative is expected to expire in 2023 and be replaced by the Local Government Fiscal Framework grant. It is not known what changes, if any, will occur.”

Other assumptions are that operating revenue will increase slightly each year, and the Claystone Waste grant will increase in 2021 and again in 2022. Plus, county salaries and wages will increase by 0.5 per cent starting in 2023.

The municipal price index of 1.029 per cent will be used as the

annual increase for contracted services and materials.

Road construction costs will follow the plan council approved and no changes in levels of service are included in the plan. There is no tax levy for the road construction as it is all funded from grants.

The plan sets out Claystone Waste grants of $1.4 million and $1.7 million for 2021 and 2022. “The grant is being used to offset operating costs and the allowance for uncollectible taxes; otherwise, significant deficits would result,” said the report.

Council expressed interest in the campground statistics, and asked that they be further defined for

them after Bujnowicz told council “that campground line is funding itself.”

“The campgrounds appear to be a moving target,” said Reeve Jim Kallal, suggesting the figures be further broken down “to show more detail.”

CAO Bob Beck suggested administration could bring back more well defined statistics in January, along with a report on the results of the recent campground survey.

“It sure helps me understand our glance into the future as much as we know it,” said Smook, thanking administration for the report.

“It’s well worth it,” he said.

Landflood contract renewed for beaver control Patricia Harcourt The county has extended the contract with the current landflood contractor, which had been set to end at the end of December, for the 2021 year.

A company was hired in April to perform beaver control services focused on infrastructure related issues caused by beaver populations.

The wet weather conditions caused beaver to proliferate in the county, and the county provided extra funds over the summer to continue with the program.

County agriculture representative Aimee Boese reported to council that the contractor spent 1,319 hours working for the county and removed 493 beaver at a cost of $74,844.

“This was approximately double the work that was completed in

2019,” she said.

But the county must now look to what should be done over the winter months as lakes and streams and other bodies of water are frozen over, helping with the beaver control.

“We don’t know the conditions there will be in the coming spring,” said Boese, noting that “this year was an exceptional one for water.”

“I would like to see an extension of his contract,” said Division 4 Councillor Barry Bruce, adding he has heard of many who were satisfied with the work done on beaver control for a fairly reasonable cost.

Division 1 Councillor, Kevin Smook, agreed, stating that the time line for a tendering process would mean missing out on the upcoming winter months.

“We would lose time if we tendered it. The winter season is a

great time to take out those critters,” he said.

Boese said there would a “six to eight week turnaround,” with the tender process put into play at the beginning of January.

“I’m in favour of extending the contract,” said Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec, adding that “the timing is

important.”

Division 5 Councillor added that he “was not against an extension.”

Boese said the contractor can’t do as much in the fall until the ice has hardened.

“We typically get calls in January/February as people look towards spring runoff.”

2 - Beaver County Chronicle, January 6, 2021

Council deals with line of credit bylaw, returning officer appointee and tax payment waiver request

Claystone Waste was pleased to be able to continue Beaver ˀ˨ˡ˜˖˜ˣ˔˟ ˆˢ˟˨˧˜ˢˡ˦Ϡ ˧˥˔˗˜˧˜ˢˡ ˕ˬ ˦ˣ˥˘˔˗˜ˡ˚ ˔ ˟˜˧˧˟˘ ʥʣʥʣ ˛ˢ˟˜˗˔ˬ cheer to several local not-for-profit organizations. Due to the pandemic, the first cycle of the program in 2020 was suspended, however it was reinstated in the fall.

Patricia Harcourt

A total of $44,851.50 was awarded:

SPREADING 2020 HOLIDAY CHEER

x ALTA VI Memorial Society ($2500) for gazebo louvers

Beaver County Council passed its annual Line of Credit Bylaw to give authorization to borrow from a financial institution on a line of credit.

“It doesn’t happen very often,” said the county’s Director of Finance Ed Bujnowicz, at council Dec. 16 meeting.

This could occur, states the report to council, “Normally only in the event of large, unexpected expenditures. Administration invests sums of money for varying periods of time, but plans in advance for any transfers so that payroll and accounts payable requirements can be met.”

Returning Officer - 2021 Municipal Election Council agreed to appoint Assistant CAO Margaret Jones as the Returning Officer and Administrative Assistant Cindy Cox as Substitute Returning Officer for the 2021 municipal election to be held next October.

The province has lengthened the nomination period from a fixed date of four weeks before election day, to the period from Jan. 1 to noon of nomination day.

In 2021 the nomination period starts Jan. 1 and runs to Sept. 20, and nominations can be filed any time during that period.

The province made other amendments including public notification of candidates, voter accessibility (including vouching) and voter residency, mandatory advance votes for small municipalities, candidate and third party advertising, and campaign expenses, finances and contributions.

These changes and the candidate nomination form will be made available on the county’s website by Jan. 1. The county will also post a candidate’s information and other forms as they become available.

Late Payment Penalty Waiver Refused Council denied a request from a ratepayer to have the late payment penalty on taxes waived.

The ratepayer stated that the taxes have been consistently paid on time for the last 25 years by mail, with no issues. However, this year the county did not receive the payment by the due date, and the ratepayer suspects it was lost in the mail.

Administration recommended the request be denied, as it sets a precedent for similar problems.

Division 1 Councillor Kevin Smook stated that, as this issue has been discussed before, he was “fine with the recommendation,” and had nothing to add. Division 4 Councillor Barry Bruce, Division 5 Councillor Dale Pederson and Reeve Jim Kallal (Division 2) all agreed.

Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) said he “believes it can be lost in the mail,” and should the letter arrive postmarked prior to the deadline, the penalty charged to the ratepayer should be reimbursed.

His motion to deny the request was then passed unanimously.

x Bardo Lutheran Church ($2500) for section of chain link fence x Beaverhill Bird Observatory Society ($2500) for solar power system on their Education Centre x Big Picture Theatre Foundation ($2500) for operational costs x Bruce Sports and operational costs

Stampede

Association

($2500)

for

x Friends of Ryley School ($2500) for school playground x Friends of Tofield Students Society ($2500) for chrome books and charging station x Happy Wanderers ($2500) for transportation costs x Holden Community Hall Association ($2500) to replace flooring x Ryley Community Preschool ($2500) for enclosed playground x Studio 14 Art Association ($2500) for refurbishing stained glass windows x Sunshine villa Residents Association ($1200) for rhythm band and drumming program for residents x Tofield and District Chamber of Commerce ($1250) for Welcome Basket printing costs x Tofield and Area Food Bank Society ($2300) for emergency lunches for three local schools x Tofield Curling Club ($2500) for two overhead gas heaters x Tofield Golden Club ($2500) to replace floor tiles in games area x Tofield Historic Society ʛʗʥʤʨʣʜ ˧ˢ ˥˘ˣ˥˜ˡ˧ Ϣˇ˔˟˘˦ ˢ˙ ˇˢ˙˜˘˟˗ϣ ˛˜˦˧ˢ˥ˬ book x Tofield Municipal Library ($2500) to replace computer software x Viking Minor Hockey Association ($2500) for power skating program x WECAN Food Basket Society of Alberta, Tofield-Ryley Depot ($451.50) for COVID-19 PPE and driver stipend -annual Claystone Waste thanks everyone for their interest in our biigrant program, which will continue into 2021. The forms and documents are currently being updated and are expected to be ready shortly. If you are interested in our program, please contact us at connect@claystonewaste.com for more information.

Toll Free: 1.855.221.2038 Ph: 780.663.2038 50117 Range Road 173 (Secondary Highway 854) Box 322, Ryley, AB T0B 4A0

FOR SALE Market Hogs and Sausage Sows Available: Live, Dressed, or Packaged ready for your freezer. Call 403-882-2421 or text 403-740-3645

Ryley Landfill Hours: We ee ekdays 9:00 am - 4:30 pm; Saturda ay ys / STATS 9:00 am - 3:00 pm; Close ed d Sunda ay ys NO N OT TE E:customers must arrive at least 15 minutes prior to closing; Administration Offices closed from 12:00 - 1:00 pm

Lindbrook Transfer Station Hours: Tues 10:30 am - 5:30 pm; Thurs 11:30 am - 6:30 pm; Sat 10:30 - 5:30 pm

Tofield Transfer Station Hours: Wed, Fri and Sat 10:30 am - 5:30 pm

Viking Transfer Station Hours: Tues 10:30 am - 5:30 pm; Sat 10:30 am - 5:30 pm

Kinsella Transfer Station Hours: Wed 11:00 am - 5:00 pm; Fri 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

Beaver County Chronicle, January 6, 2021 - 3

Whistle cessation gets support from MP Patricia Harcourt Beaver County has received some feedback after sending letters to local politicians regarding the quest to end train whistle blowing at three rural rail crossings.

Letters went out to MLA Lovely, MLA Wilson, and MP Damien Kurek asking for help in finding out the status of the county’s attempts at whistle cessation.

The three crossings in question include Lindbrook at Hwy. 630, Holden where R.R. 161 intersects Twp. Rd. 492, and Bruce where Hwy. 857 intersects Main Street.

The county has had to submit information several times to both CN Rail and Transport Canada due to COVID-19 and other complications. Transport Canada misplaced the documents and CN did not get back to the county after it had received documentation.

Kurek informed council that Transport Canada was in the process of completing its findings report, and intends to follow up with the county early in the new year.

Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) said he called Kurek and was told that, “If we haven’t heard by two weeks in January the county should contact him and (Kurek) will follow up with the ministerial office.”

Hrabec said Kurek is “working on this with

Tutoring

CN,” and has had a “good conversation” with Transport Canada, which is “dragging its feet.”

“I sense some progress,” said Division 1 Councillor Kevin Smook.

Division 4 Councillor Barry Bruce, who has spoken up strongly against the train whistles, said: “I’m glad CN held up their end of things,” adding he had “little hope for Transport Canada,” which he felt “has little interest in rural Canada.”

“It’s good to see it’s back on its wheels again,” said Division 5 Councillor Dale Pederson, of the project to stop the whistles.

“Getting the MP involved is great,” said Reeve Jim Kallal (Division 2). “It’s a step in the right direction.”

Kallal said he wanted “to stay on it and appease the people living on those tracks.”

Services

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Young Agrarians Apprenticeship

4 - Beaver County Chronicle, January 6, 2021

Beaver County Service Centre 5120 - 50 Street Box 140 Ryley, Alberta T0B 4A0 Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Phone: (780) 663-3730 Fax: (780) 663-3602 Toll Free: 1-866-663-1333 www.beaver.ab.ca Email: administration@beaver.ab.ca

2021 Municipal Election

FCSS Changes

2021 is the year of municipal elections and October 18, 2021 is Election Day.

Changes to Town of Tofield and Rural West Beaver County A new year brings about new changes and as such the Village of Ryley will now be operating a separate FCSS program specific to the residents living in the Village of Ryley. Residents living within the (Ranges 17-21) will continue to remain clients of our Tofield/Beaver County West FCSS program.

In the past, submission of nominations was restricted to one day only.

The Local Authorities Election Act has been amended to extend the time period during which nominations can be filed.

The new Nomination Period is January 1, 2021 to noon on Monday, September 20, 2021.

We would like to thank the Village of Ryley Residents for their past patronage and let you know that you will be missed. Thank you to the Village of Ryley for their past partnership.

At any time during this period, a candidate may submit a Nomination Form. The Nomination Form as well as a Candidate Information Package is available on the County’s website at www.beaver.ab.ca/council/2021-municipal-election.

As always our team is available at the Tofield office (780-662-7067 or 780-662-7066) Monday to Friday 8:30am to 12:00pm and 1:00pm to 4:30pm. The Director is situated in the Beaver County office (780-6633730) every Tuesday following a change to enhanced status in our county.

Additional information regarding municipal elections is available on Alberta Municipal Affairs’ website at www.alberta.ca/municipalelections.aspx. Inquiries may be addressed to the Returning Officer, Margaret Jones, or the Substitute Returning Officer, Cindy Cox, at 780-663-3730, or by e-mail to mjones@beaver.ab.ca or cindy@beaver.ab.ca.

Budget Approved 2021 INTERIM BUDGET APPROVED On December 16, 2020, Beaver County Council approved an interim budget for 2021. The interim budget enables the County to continue operations until the final budget is approved in the Spring.

The Open Door Opening the Door to a Brighter Future Youth Employment Skills Strategy (YESS) is the Government of Canada’s commitment to help young people, particularly those facing barriers to employment, get the information and gain the skills, work experience and abilities they need to make a successful transition into the labor market. The open door provides a series of activities and interventions to assist youth (aged 15-30) navigate through these barriers. We will be offering services through our office, as well as through an online platform.

Development of the 2021 budget has been a challenge. The uncertainty around the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery of the oil and gas industry made it difficult to predict revenue and expenses with any degree of certainty.

Participants will have access to a variety of services through our employment office such as: • Job skill development • Creating cover letters and resumes • Interviewing skill training • Employment opportunities • On the job training • Provision of work materials and necessary PPE

Council was relieved to hear that the Provincial Government delayed implementation of the assessment model review, however other assessment reductions for the oil and gas industry resulted in a loss of over $17 million in the County’s assessment base.

Mentorship The Open Door Employment office is committed to guiding participants through the employment process. Our Employment office Coordinators are available to offer help in person, over the phone or virtually.

To offset this loss in assessment, spending has been reduced in almost every department. Budgets are tightening up, vacant staff positions are not being filled, and employee compensation was frozen for 2 years.

Council is also working with its partners (urban municipalities and other non-profit organizations) to hold the line on spending related to fire protection, recreation, and cultural services.

Employers Through professional relationships, The Open Door will direct participants to apply to work with valued employers. As part of the YESS program, our participants will be placed with a one week (36.5 hour) full time employment opportunity. Employers are eligible to have some (if not all) of the 36.5 hours reimbursed by the Camrose Open Door upon hiring the participant.

Despite Council’s efforts at restraint, it continues to feel the impact of government down-loading. RCMP cost-sharing has increased and the Provincial Government has mandated an e-ticketing system for our peace officers at the County’s expense. Most notable is an expected 25% reduction in the MSI operating and capital grant. Although a reduction was expected in 2022, we now anticipate it to be implemented in 2021, resulting in a loss in revenue of over $400,000.

For more information call, text or email our Employment office.

Email: Melanie@camroseopendoor.com Samantha@camroseopendoor.com Call or text 780-679-8836

County Council will continue to work hard over the next few months to develop a budget that reflects the levels of service that residents enjoy while being mindful of the current economy and the challenges that COVID has placed on all of us. In particular, Council recognizes that our small businesses are struggling and is considering a reduction in the mill rate for this key sector of our local economy.

To review the interim budget, go to the www.beaver.ab.ca. Your input is welcome!

Tax Deadline

Tax Deadline Beaver County Tax Deadline Please note that an additional penalty of 3% will be added to any outstanding taxes on January 16, 2021. Please ensure that all tax payments are made on or before January 15, 2021.

Mailed payments must be sent to: Beaver County, Box 140, Ryley, AB, T0B 4A0 Inquiries can be made by phoning (780) 663-3730. Please ensure that the postmark is on or before January 15, 2021.

The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021 - Page 7

RCMP Continued from Page 5 substantial amount of tools worth approximately $5,000. The truck was later recovered north of Wainwright and had been completely burned.

Police are continuing to follow up on this crime.

On January 3, police received a complaint of a suspicious male walking on a rural road southeast of Viking. Police attended and located and person in question. He was escorted from the area but police had no grounds to proceed with any charge.

Later that morning, police received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle parked on a rural road just west of Viking. The complainant advised he saw a silver sedan with two males and one female parked in front of a driveway and thought they may have bolt cutters.

Members from Viking and Killam Detachments responded, however the vehicle in question was no longer on scene when police arrived. Numerous patrols were made in the area but the vehicle was not located.

A short time later, police received a complaint of a silver sedan pulled over on the shoulder of Highway 26. A female passenger had departed from the vehicle and was left standing on the side of the road.

Police attended the location however the female was no longer on scene and may have been picked up by a passing vehicle.

That afternoon, police received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle southeast of Viking. Police made a patrol and noted the vehicle in question parked at a rural property in the area.

Vision donates to Ag Society

Vision Credit Union has just donated $10,000 to the Viking & District Agricultural Society to assist with the replacement of the carpeting in the Viking Community Centre. Pictured here on the left is Dale Morrical, VicePresident of the Viking Ag Society next to Austyn Fowler, Manager of Vision Credit Union Ltd. Viking Branch.

Employment Opportunity Town of Viking

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Office Manager

REALTOR REALTOR

Office Located Located at 5013 - 48 Street Vegreville, Office Vegreville,AB AB

Due to the coming retirement current Office Manager, the Town of Viking is looking for a highly motivated and skilled replacement.

The person must have a minimum of five (5) years current relevant municipal experience and be familiar with all aspects of the MGA and other related acts.

Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 and the Muniware software system is strongly desired. In addition the candidate should have strong interpersonal skills and able to communicate with the public.

Closing Date: January 15, 2021 Application Return: Please forward your resume and cover letter to: don.mcleod@viking.ca Email applications will be received until Jan 15, 2021.

780-603-8516 780-603-8516 kathy@keyrealtor.ca kathy@keyrealtor.ca

780-632-2542

Ralph RalphSoldan Soldan REALTOR REALTOR

780-603-0944 780-603-0944 ralph@keyrealtor.ca ralph@keyrealtor.ca

5240 -59 Ave. Viking

5303 - 55 Ave., Viking

49107 - RNG RD 124 near Viking

The work is all done. Well maintained 4 bdrm, 3 bath home. New flooring, shingles, windows, siding, air conditioning, steel doors, appliances, and more! $225,000 realtor.ca E4201595

Well maintained 1500+ sq. ft. 4 bdrm, 3 bath home with 22’ x 24’ detached 2 car garage. Large windows, recent upgrades, great price. $187,000 realtor.ca E4201599

2006, 1605 sq. ft. Home with 864 sq ft Garage, Plus Straight Wall Shop on 14.8 Acres, Minutes from Viking. $495,000

12229 TWP RD 484 near Viking

Winter’s coming! Well-kept 2 bdrm, 1 bath 45+ condo in Vegreville. Attached 2 car garage for your convenience. All maintenance is looked after.

Covered deck with view. $245,000 realtor.ca E4175988

4816 - 52 St., Innisfree Priced for quick sale. Don’t miss out on this cozy, wellmaintained home with attached carport. 3 bdrm, 1 bath. Plenty of updates, shed in large back yard.

Basement insulated and partially finished. $49,999 realtor.ca E4191901

1996 mobile with 3bdrm and 2 baths on 21.54 acres.

Property also contains 1948 home that could be converted for livestock. Two wells, separate septic. $310,000 realtor.ca E4223353

4827 - 47 Ave., Vegreville

Page 8 - The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021

Business AND Professional OilďŹ eld AND Energy

D I R E C TO RY

Not listed? Let’s ďŹ x that! ads@weeklyreview.ca

AGRICULTURE

CONSTRUCTION/RENOVATIONS Russell usse e McAvena c e a

FEED GRAINS

WANTED Sunhaven Farms Milling, Irma, AB We are looking to purchase Feed Grains:

Wheat, Peas, Fabas, Barley For more information and pricing, please contact:

Ted Ratte, Manager Cell: 780-806-9245 Phone: 780-754-2708 Fax: 780-754-2709 email: tratte@sunhavenfarmsmilling.com

Red Seal Carpenter

Shane’s Stucco MccA Avve ena e n&a Drywall Service Shane Hollar Const Con C Co ons nsttrruction

Stucco (traditional & acrylic), Drywall, russmcavena@icloud.com Stone, Textured Ceilings, Tile, & Spray Painting Specializing exteerior ďŹ nishing, g PO Box 307 g in interior and exterior 780-336-4832 custom-built cabinets, furniture and home decor Viking, AB shanes.stucco@gmail.com T0B 4N0

Farm Buildings • Garage Package Roofing • Siding • Decks Concrete & Patio Stone Sidewalks & Driveways

AUTOMOTIVE

TOFIELD AUTOBODY -Collision Repair Specialists -Windshields Repaired & Replaced

Phone 780-662-3432

Construction

ELECTRICAL REAL ESTATE

PLOC ELECTRIC For all your residential, Farm, Viking, AB and commercial electric needs.

Barb Chrystian Trenching and Bucket Truck.

Real Estate Associate

Rick1-780-385-0631 Ploc, Master Electrician

780-385-1497

Visit our website to view our listing at: www.chrystianagencies.com REAL ESTATE

Windows Complete Home Renovations Styrofoam Basements

Bobcat Service Available:

*Certified in LOGIX Blocks

FREE ESTIMATES

Landscaping • Drilling to 12 ft.

Give us a call!

Murray - 336-6088

Viking, AB

Homewise Realty

Barb Chrystian

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Lee - 336-6089

Real Associate 5013Estate - 48 Street Vegreville, AB T9C 1T9

1-780-385-0631 Visit our Office:website 780-632-2542 to view our listing at: Email kathyoshea@royallepage.ca Kathy O’Shea www.chrystianagencies.com www.royallepage.ca REALTOR Cell: 780-603-8516

C ONSTRUCTION/RENOVATIONS CAR DEALERSHIPS

Campbell McLennan

m Co . h e.

New Ho m stroug 5�-6� E a v e

Your Dream Home.Your Dream Price.

Experience!

Experienc Ex xperrienc ce!!

Your Dream Home.Your Dream Price.

m Co . h e.

New Ho m stroug 5�-6� E a v e

Big e townBui dealership, small town atmosphere.

W Build To ogether geth geth

We Bui Build To ogether g geth eth 35+ 35+ y years ears ea rs .

p

Killam, AB

fin om www.campbellmclennan.com g. e F a r R e n o v ati o ns . D e c k s . m Bu il d ing s. Ga r a g e s .

CONSTRUCTION/RENOVATIONS

RETAIL

Jobs Big Jobs or Small!

p Murray wsky Ro le t e Cholowsky ofi H o / 780-385-1251 780-385-2106 0-385-12 ng m . F e Reno . v ati o ns . D e c k s a rm Bu il d ing s. .

Ga r a g e s

CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM R o le t e 780-385-2121 o H

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ebdac.ca | Josh Taylor 780.385.8486 | Dustin Smith 780.385.8887

IMAGING C ONSTRUCTION/RENOVATIONS DRYWALL TAPING

ebdac.ca | Josh Taylor 780.385.8486 | Dustin Smith 780.385.8887

5103-50 Street, Viking, Alberta 780-336-1169 lauriesvintagecreations@gmail.com Laurie Ritchie

Mike Klassen - Owner/Operator Call: 780-729-0260 35+ years

Experience!

sales@gradientimaging.ca or www.gradientimaging.ca

Big Jobs

Commercial, Farm, Homes, Siding, Soffit Fascia, Roofing, Styrofoam Form Basements WINDOWS & DOORS Government Certified for Energy Rebates

NDVI & ADVI orImaging Small! • Insurance Claim Photography • Crop Scouting Murray Cholowsky • Thermal Imaging • Aerial Photography & Videography Things we do:

East Central Alberta’s Largest Drug Store

Prescription service seven days a week

8:00-6:00 Mon.-Fri. 9:00-4:00 Saturdays 12:00-4:00 Sundays

CELEBRATING NEARLY 60 YEARS!

780-385-2106 / 780-385-1251

LAW

SERVICES

JD CONSTRUCTION 45 YEARS IN BUSINESS

43 YEARS IN BUSINESS JOURNEYMAN CARPENTERS FOR ASSURED SERVICE, CALL:

Dennis Bird 780-385-5689 Jeff Bird 780-390-0269

Shawn Bird 780-385-1196 Glen McDonald 780-336-2360

FARNHAM WEST STOLEEStreet KAMBEITZ LLP 5314-50 Street (Main Street) 5314-50 (Main Street)

**BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS** Viking, AB Tel: 780-336-3332 Viking, AB Tel: 780-336-3332 FORESTBURG SCOTTHunter FARNHAM PH: 582-3560 (Former :John Law Office)

TUES. 10 A.M. TO John 12 NOON , FORESTBURG AGENCIES (Former Hunter Law Office) D

AYSLAND: STEPHEN KAMBEITZ PH: 374-3930 MON. 1Office: TO 4 P.M., D(780) AYSLAND A GENCIES Camrose 679-0444 !

Shawn R. Warrington, C.A.* * Denotes professional corporation

5102 - 50 Street Viking, Alberta

Wednesdays 9:30 am to 3 pm 1-888-515-6788 or 780-632-6788

The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021 - Page 9

Affordable Advertising with

The

CLASSIFIED AD RATES $10.75+gst first 25 words 39¢ each additional word PICTURE BOLD $10.00 $5.00 WEEKLY REVIEW Ph. 780-336-3422 Email: vikingreview @gmail.com TOFIELD MERCURY Ph. 780-662-4046 Email: adsmercury @gmail.com LAMONT LEADER Ph. 780-895-2780 Email: lmtleader @gmail.com ___________________ FOR FOR RENT RENT

2 bedroom house in Sedgewick. Large fenced yard and shed. No smoking. Pets negotiable. $1,100/month includes utilities. $1,000 DD. Contact Ian at 780-995-6146 tfnp ________________________ 1 Month Free Rent Apartment for Rent in Killam. Large, clean, non-smoking. Call Chuck at 780-263-7290 tfn ________________________ 3 Bedroom Townhouse for rent in Viking, AB. $950/mo. including utilities. Available now. Call 780-563-0191. tfn ___________________ FOR FOR SALE SALE 2016 Chev Silverado 4x4 double cab, many options, 189,800 kms - $14,500 includes GST. Please call 780-608-9024 (in Tofield).

TM50/51p ________________________ Round bales for sale, Brome hay, stored under cover, no rain. Call 587-990-1003 TM50/01p

Market Hogs and Sausage Sows Available: Live, Dressed, or Packaged ready for your freezer. Call 403-8822421 or text 403-740-3645 ___________________ HAY FOR FOR SALE SALE HAY Hay for sale. Alf/Tim/Br/Cw mix Rounds $50. 2019 Rounds $35. Small square shedded bales $6. Majority no rain.

Phone 780-942-4107 late evenings. ___________________ HELP WANTED WANTED HELP APIARIES OF ALBERTA are looking for Five Apiary Technicians $17-$19/hr depending on experience for full time (40+hrs/wk) employment March thru October 2021. Must have a min of 3 years (seasons) working fulltime on Canadian style commercial apiary in the minimum capacity of Apiary Assistant.

Gerard 780-662-4449 RR4 Tofield, AB. gsieben@mcsnet.ca ________________________ Vegreville Family Dental, located next to the Boston Pizza in Vegreville is looking for a very enthusiastic Registered Dental Assistant to join our team on a part time or full time basis. Our practice is committed to and focused on providing excellent quality patient care. We are looking for someone who is professional, reliable, possesses excellent interpersonal skills, is warm and friendly with patients. We offer competitive wages commensurate with experience as well as a great and friendly work environment! Travel or relocation assistance will be considered for the suitable candidate. If this opportunity sounds interesting to you, please apply to vegredental@gmail.com. ___________________ SERVICES SERVICES Roy's Handyman Services.

Flooring, trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work.

Call 780-662-0146 or 780-232-3097.

___________________ SERVICES SERVICES Painting

Quality Residential and Commercial Painting Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749 or 780-688-3564 tfn ________________________ Shane’s Stucco & Drywall Service Shane Hollar Stucco (Traditional & Acrylic), Drywall, Stone, Textured Ceilings, Tile and Spray Painting 780-336-4832 shanes.stucco@gmail.com

EADER

Serving

Classifieds ___________________ FOR FOR SALE SALE

L

THE LAMONT

___________________ SERVICES SERVICES

Town & Country Guardian Drugs - Killam We have: •a Kodak picture maker.

•a colour/b&w photocopier.

•cold popand fresh snacks.

•a great selection of candles, giftware, and fragrances. toys, games,and plush animals.

•a huge selection of Hallmark cards.

•plastic gift cards •vitamins, minerals, and herbals.

•free gift wrapping.

•prescription service Open 6 days a week. tfnp

Lamont

county

3 papers for the price of 1! ___________________ SERVICES SERVICES Carpet and upholstery cleaning - residential and commercial. Truck mount unit, sewer backup, and flood cleaning. Auto and RV cleaning. Call Glenn and Cindi Poyser, Fancy Shine Auto and Carpet Care at (780) 384-3087 tfn ________________________ Drywall Taping/Texturing 35+ Years No Job too small!

Experienced drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job big or small.

Don't want to do it yourself, give me a call! Based in Killam but willing to travel Hand taper by trade but have experience with boxes, roller/flusher, taping tube. No bazooka exp. Have own tools (10-12" boxes, pump, angle box, roller, flusher, hand tools, etc.) Also do ceiling texture.

Non-drinker, just want to work. Willing to work with existing taping crew. Call 780385-2106 or 780-385-1251.

Page 10 - The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021

OBITUARIES

Florence (Dot) Hafso

It is with great sadness that the family of Florence (Dot) Hafso of Viking, Alberta, announce her passing on January 1, 2021, at the age of 99 years.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children; Darryl (Fran), Mark (Cheryl), and Heather (Stan); sister Margaret; nine grandchildren, 16 greatgrandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Florence was predeceased by her husband Norman (1988); her parents Alex and Florence Sangster, brothers Wally and Jim; and sisters Alberta, Trudie and Alice.

Due to Alberta Health Regulations, a private family funeral will take place at the Golden Valley Lutheran Church with Pastor Alvin Sorenson officiating.

A private interment will Follow at the Golden Valley Lutheran Cemetery Viking, Alberta.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Golden Valley Lutheran Church in Florence’s memory will be appreciated.

Viking Funeral Services 780-336-4842 vikingfuneralservices.ca

Blanket Alberta Ads take approximately 10 days to process ______________________ COMING EVENTS COMING EVENTS FIREARMS WANTED FOR FEBRUARY 20th, 2021 LIVE & ONLINE Rifles, AUCTION: Handguns, Shotguns, Militaria. Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual Items.

Contact Paul, Switzer's Auction: Toll-Free 1-800694-2609, sales@switzeror sauction.com www.switzersauction.com. ______________________ HEALTH HEALTH HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund.

Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-4535372.

Deadline for Blanket Classifieds is Wednesday at 4 p.m.

______________________ EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES SPRUCE POINT PARK ASSOCIATION is seeking to fill the position of: PARK MANAGER. Park Point Spruce Campground and Marina is located on Lesser Slave Lake approximately 285 of northwest kms Edmonton, AB near Hamlet of Kinuso. Now accepting applications for the period of May 1st to September 30th, some flexibility on September end date. For complete package and details call 780-775-3805 or email sprucepointpark@gmail.com. Closing date: January 31st, 2021 or until suitable candidate is found. ______________________ FEED AND SEED FEEDAND HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola.

Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain.

"On Farm Pickup" Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-2505252.

Thomas George Mattinson

Thomas George Mattinson, of Camrose, Alberta, passed away in St. Mary’s hospital on January 2, 2021, at age 92 from complications of heart failure.

Tom was born October 28, 1928, to Jane and William Mattinson in Viking, Alberta.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Pauline May Mattinson. Daughters and son-in-laws; Shannon Rose Marko (Chris), Melanie

Jayne Kirk (Brad) and Angela Dawn Long (Mike).

Grandchildren; Shaun Marko, Jennifer Herman, Brennon Kirk, Braedan Kirk, and Megan Kirk.

Great-granddaughters; Octavia Herman and Jaspyn Marko.

Brothers; Bill (Joyce) Mattinson and John (Sharon) Mattinson.

Tom is predeceased by his father William Mattinson, his mother Jane Mattinson, his sister Rosemary Mattinson, his daughters Laureen and Maureen Mattinson, and Granddaughter Brittany Taylor.

Tom resided at and worked the family farm south of Viking until he and Pauline moved to Camrose in 2014. Side ventures

included carpentry, horses, chinchilla ranching, and of course music. He and his brother Bill sang and played guitar at various lodges in Camrose and at Jaywalkers Jamboree up until the beginning of 2020. He was also President of the Sedgewick Gas Coop for about 20 years.

Tom was a lay minister, instrumental in community service and dedicated to his family and his faith.

A private service will be held but a memorial and life celebration for Tom will be announced at a future date.

Memorial gifts can be made to Billy Graham Ministries or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Viking Funeral Services 780-336-4842 vikingfuneralservices.ca

These blanket classified ads are produced through a joint agreement by The Community Press, Viking Weekly Review, Lamont Leader, Tofield Mercury and Alberta Weekly Newspaper Association (AWNA).

These ads appear in all AWNA member papers (120 papers) for the cost of $269.00 (+gst) for the first 25 words, $8.00 per word over 25. To place a blanket classified, call a CARIBOU PUBLISHING representative at 780-385-6693 or email ads@thecommunitypress.com.

______________________ LAND FOR SALE SALE LAND FOR

______________________ SERVICES

DUCKS UNLIMITED CANADA has for sale 4 project lands in Beaver County. Land locations are: SW27-50-16-W4, SE 1849-14 W4M, S½ 3-46-11 W4M and NW 32-47-13 Brent Call W4M. T h y g e s e n , b_thygesen@ducks.ca or 780 678-0150. ______________________ REAL ESTATE

CRIMINAL RECORD? suffer Why employment/licensing loss?

Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed?

Think: Criminal Pardon.

US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction.

Free consultation. 1-800347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com ______________________ GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta.

The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $995 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 90 Community Weekly Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or l i a m e classifieds@awna.com for details. 1-800-282-6903, X225.

780-434-8746 www.awna.com.

VERY INEXPENSIVE 2 QUARTERS OF PASTURE LAND, Central SK, for sale. 8 other good quarters may be available.

Requires fencing. Great hunting $74,900. Call Doug at 306-716-2671. ______________________ THE BLANKET PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800225; Ext 282-6903 www.awna.com.

PLEASE RECYCLE

SUDOKU

ANSWERS

The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021 - Page 11

Irma News

IRMA NEWS

By Marjorie Lawson

Get well wishes go out to John and Barb Fleming who are recovering from the virus and to Art Pierce who has had surgery.

A large crowd enjoyed the fireworks at the Fords on New Year’s Eve. Thank you to everyone who helped create a festive spirit this Christmas with their lighting efforts. Here are the local Ag. Society winners: 1st Clair and Lynn Prior,

2nd - (tie) Kelly and Sheldon Short; Linda Erickson and Dave Zarski.

Several other residences received honourable mention.

Businesses: 1st - Irma Lumber, 2nd - Median Automotive.

North of Town: 1st Clara Adamson, 2nd Kirk and Shelley Larson.

South of Town: 1st Lyle and Deb Oracheski 2nd - Arnold and Faye Lien. Other rural residences also received honourable mention.

The lucky people who received a Christmas morning phone call from the Ag. Society as winners of the cash raffle were Tyler Fischer ($3500), Garnet MacKay ($1000), and Richard and Stella Glasgow

($500).

Thank you to everyone for their support.

Our community was very saddened by the loss of Clair Prior on December 22 at the age of 82. Clair was always a wonderful supporter of our community and he will be sadly missed. Our sympathy to his wife of over sixty years, Lynn and daughters Lori Fenton, Lana Parsons, Kirby Prior, Kristal MacKay and Corinne McPhee, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The Irma United Church suffered extensive smoke damage after Christmas lights smoldered.

A restoration company is assessing the damage to the contents but the building structure is intact.

New Year, New You! Virtual online yoga & fitness training

Not quite Santa’s Reindeer

Local photographer Lynn Carter captured this family of moose crossing her yard on Dec. 23. She said it appeared as if they were gathering for Christmas.

Highway 14 Regional Water Services Commission Box 540, 5029-51 Ave. Ryley, Alberta T0B 4A0 (780) 663-2019 or 1-866-333-3791 Fax: (780) 663-2050 E-mail: info@hwy14water.ca

NOTICE #1 AT THE DECEMBER 17, 2020 REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING THE HIGHWAY 14 REGIONAL WATER SERVICES COMMISSION BOARD PASSED AN INCREASE IN THE URBAN MONTHLY FIXED CHARGE FROM $28.50 TO $40.80 PER MONTH EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY 1, 2021.

NOTICE #2 Many of my clients love going to class, but others are more shy and prefer the comfort and security of their own home. If this is you, please join my growing online community. Work out when it works for you.

• Pre-recorded videos for: - Yin, Hatha, Restorative and other Yoga styles.

- Cardio, strength, low impact, minimal equipment, body weight.

- New uploads weekly to my growing

library of classes.

- Unlimited access. Do as many classes as fit your schedule.

- Something for everyone. All ages and abilities.

$25/month. Join today and begin the New You! michelleyoga.net Click on Member’s Studio • Boston Marathon Qualifier • 200 Hour RYT • 30 Hour Apprenticeship with Gerda Krebs • Whole Body Alignment completion • 100 hour Yin Teacher Training • Member of the Yoga Association of Alberta • Certified Lifestyle Meditation Teacher • 85 Hour Pre-Natal Teacher Training Mamata Yoga • 20 Hour Teaching Yoga to Children • 23 Hour Pain Care Yoga Teacher Training • Kettlebell Level 1 Agatsu • Certified C.O.R.E. Cycle Instructor • AFLCA Older Adult Specialty Leader • AFLCA Group Exercise Speciality Leader • AFLCA ArthriProfessional Yoga Teacher tis and Excerise • Canfitpro Healthy Eating & & Fitness Instructor Weight Loss Coach • doTerra Wellness Advocate.

Michelle Anderson

THE HIGHWAY 14 REGIONAL WATER SERVICES COMMISSION has been notified by STRATHCONA COUNTY, of a $0.06/cubic meter increase in the EPCOR rate effective January 1, 2021. The Commissionʼs water rates will reflect this increase effective February 1, 2021 on the February month end utility bills. Please note that there is no increase from Strathcona County (transportation of supply) or the Highway 14 Regional Water Services Commission.

Changes to rates are as follows: • Distribution Commodity Rate has been increased from $3.695/m3 to $3.755/m3.

• Bulk Commodity Rate has been increased from $3.445/m3 to $3.505/m3.

• Non-Member Commodity Rate has been increased from $3.845 to $3.905/m3.

• Truck Fill Rate has been increased from $5.233/m3 to $5.293/m3.

The Highway 14 Regional Water Services Commission can be contacted at 1-866-333-3791 during regular office hours from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Page 12 - The Weekly Review, Wednesday, January 6, 2021

. . . l a u n n

A h t 13

eks, E! e w E 4 Book week FR e 4th 1 month h t t ge !A aign p W m O a c W e ad 1000! g a p full under $ for

RUN AN AD BETWEEN JAN 20 & FEB 24

a r t x e r u colo

Or Advertise in 4 Papers

(Flagstaff, Viking, Tofield, Lamont)

LY N O !

W O W

$695

ads@weeklyreview.ca Phone: 780-336-3422 Fax: 780-336-3223