Youth invited to local seniors pickleball
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
The Tofield Golden Club’s weekly drop-in pickleball mornings have now been opened to younger people, including youth aged 14 and up, for the summer.
“We want to continue
throughout the summer, but we need more people, so we are inviting the youth to come out. We’re really fun,” Rose Scott said.
Held at the Tofield Community Hall on Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the drop-in fee is $5 per person, but on Thurs-
day, July 3, the fee is waived for any youth who want to participate.
Scott said that no experience is necessary, and that all who come just need to bring indoor shoes.
“We supply the paddles, and balls, all the equipment, so just drop by,” Scott said.
the Tofield, Ryley & Area Food Bank if you are within a 20 mile (32 km) radius of his wrecking yard. Arrangements can be made if you are further than the 20 miles, if feasible.
By-election called
Battle River-Crowfoot voters will take to the polls on August 18
Leslie Cholowsky Staff Reporter
The by-election triggered by MP Damien Kurek’s resignation two weeks ago has been officially called for Monday, Aug. 18.
Elections Canada has announced Advance Voting Days starting Friday, Aug. 8, and running to Monday, Aug. 11.
Early voting will be accepted at the Elections Canada office in Battle RiverCrowfoot anytime between now and Tuesday, Aug. 12.
As of Monday, June 30, no candidates have yet been confirmed by Elections Canada.
According to election rules, the deadline to submit nomination papers is 2 p.m. on the day that is 21 days before Election Day.
While a list of candidates has been unofficially published by Wikipedia, there are presently no official candidates who have been certified by Elec-
tions Canada.
Residents of Battle River-Crowfoot are eligible to vote if they are at least 18 years of age, and have a home address within the electoral district, and are registered to vote. Electors may use online voter registration services at elections.ca, or can call 1-800-463-6868. They can also registered in person when they go to vote.
Voters should be prepared to show proof of their identity and address.
Kurek gave up his seat in Parliament after receiving 82.84 per cent of the vote in the general election held April 28, up from 71.3 per cent in 2021, to provide an opportunity for Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre to gain a seat in Parliament after he was defeated in his home riding of Carleton.
Poilievre remains the Conservative Party of Canada leader, but has been unable to serve as Opposition leader, where Andrew Scheer now serves on an interim basis.
KARI JANZEN PHOTOS
The Tofield Golden Club’s weekly drop-in pickleball mornings have now been opened to younger people, including youth aged 14 and up, for the summer. Pictured L-R: Bill Robertson, Ralph Petersen, Don Swift, Rose Scott, Marg Mitchell.
Friends of Battle River Award presented to Tofield woman
Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter
Melinda Kykosz of Tofield was recently awarded the Friends of Battle River Award on Thursday, June 12, being recognized for her volunteer hours spent at C.W. Sears Elementary School.
"The Friends of Battle River Awards are presented annually as a means of saying thanks and providing recognition to an individual or organization which provides support to Battle River School Division," Adam Madsen, school principal, explained.
"Ms. Melinda Kykosz volunteers at our school helping Grade 3 and Grade 4 students with reading and math. She has been volunteering with our school since September 2022. Students and teachers really enjoy
having Ms. Kykosz volunteer with their class," Madsen said.
Kykosz said she was surprised when she learned that she was this year’s recipient.
"This was the first award ever awarded in my life. I was pleas-
antly surprised and shocked. My first response was, you have the wrong person, you have the wrong number. I didn't know my school nominated me," she said.
"It didn't sink in until I received the award. I
have Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy; I am wheelchair bound for life.
“I am so grateful for the opportunity to volunteer at C.W. Sears and to help children who need the extra assistance. I feel like I am part of their success. It is truly gratifying,” said Kykosz.
Melinda Kykosz of Tofield was recently awarded the Friends of Battle River Award on Thursday, June 12, presented by BRSD trustee Lyle Albrecht, for her volunteer hours spent at C.W. Sears Elementary School.
Village of Ryley one step closer in RyNet project
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Fortis Alberta was in Ryley on Tuesday, June 24 to install a pole, bringing the Village of Ryley one step closer in their RyNet project.
“Fortis donated and installed the pole free of charge to support the Village of Ryley,” Ryley Chief Administrative Officer Glen HamiltonBrown said. “This is a key relay point for our new RyNet which will soon enable security cameras throughout the village, broadband internet service for businesses, full connectivity for our lift stations, water reservoir, and building monitor systems, and this point will specifically extend our new free public Ryley WiFi throughout our campground immediately,” he said. The Village’s public WiFI, named RyFi, currently covers main street downtown, the community hall and parking lot, the curling rink, and baseball diamonds, and was introduced in time for Sports Day, held the weekend of June 20-22.
“Installing this pole is something the Village does not have the equipment to do. Fortis has been quick and eager to help the Village of Ryley for the RyNet Project,” Hamilton-Brown said.
Fortis also recently added a pole in the village for the return of the village siren.
“This is the second pole that Fortis has assisted us with as good partners; they also erected the new pole for the siren to be placed by the curling rink, as we took that down from main street. The siren’s internal motor broke down and we have been looking for replacement parts. In the end, we found a shop to rebuild it and we expect that back this summer sometime. The siren is very loud so we decided to provide some distance for our downtown businesses and those residents around downtown,” Hamilton-Brown said.
Fortis Alberta was in Ryley on Tuesday, June 24 to install a pole, bringing the Village of Ryley one step closer in their RyNet project.
Pierre Poilievre makes a stop in Hardisty Saturday
Leslie Cholowsky Staff Reporter
Around 150 people attended a community town hall in Hardisty Saturday night, with Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre and former Battle River-Crowfoot MP Damien Kurek.
Kurek took the stage to enthusiastic applause, thanking everyone for coming, calling it, “A fantastic end to a very good day.” Kurek said he and Poilievre had taken an opportunity over the past few days to meet with many in the Battle River Crowfoot area, including a meeting and detailed tour of the Hardisty Terminal earlier that day.
Kurek said, “There are moments in one’s life, including that of a politician, where you talk lots about what needs to be done.
“In the aftermath of the election, it certainly wasn’t the result that Danielle and I hoped for.” He said he and his wife talked, and decided, “that it was fundamentally important to ensure that this man had a path back to Parliament. So we made the offer; we had some questions about rural representation and what that would look like, then we made the offer [to resign].”
Kurek added that he has now put in his resignation. “Hopefully a by-
election will be called soon so that we can get this man back into parliament, and he can keep fighting as leader of the Conservative Party, as leader of the official Opposition, and run again in the next election to be Canada’s Prime Minister.”
Kurek thanked the Hardisty and District Development Group for hosting Poilievre and himself that day, and “showing what truly is the best of rural Alberta.”
Poilievre entered then, to a standing ovation.
“Thank you very much, Hardisty,” he said, “It’s great to be here today to celebrate what is literally the beating heart that pumps $90 billion dollars of power right across this continent, through these steel veins that we call pipelines, something that I got a chance to witness today. I think pound for pound this has got to be the most important place in Canada,” he told the local crowd.
Poilievre then gave a “heartfelt thank you to Danielle and Damien, for the incredible selfless act that you’ve undertaken to allow me to lead our party in Parliament if, God willing, the people of this region decide to elect me in the forthcoming byelection. To give a voice to the 8.3 million people who voted for us in the last election and gave us a
very strong mandate to speak for change.
“Damien, I will never be able to thank you enough.”
Poilievre also extended a warm welcome to former Member of Parliament Kevin Sorenson, saying he had many fond memories of working with Sorenson in Parliament as seatmates. “Thank you very much,Kevin, for all the leadership you provided.”
Poilievre reminisced about being back in Alberta, saying he was born and raised in Calgary. He talked about Battle RiverCrowfoot, saying, “If I had to sum up the region, I would say this region feeds, powers, and protects all of Canada. You feed the people with the farmers and ranches, you power it with the energy, and of course you protect it with the Wainwright CFB base. All three of those things which we could not exist without as a country are right here in this community.
“I would consider it a sacred trust to earn the support of the people here and to speak on their behalf across this country.”
He talked about the necessity of getting the resources in the area to the world market. He talked about the loss of Energy East and the Keystone XL pipelines. “It was a travesty that those two proj-
ects were killed. To get those projects going, we need to remove the laws and rules that Ottawa has imposed.”
Poilievre touched on many of his campaign promises, including removing barriers for development and new projects, changing capital gains taxation, introducing incentives to Canadian investment. “That would be like rocket fuel for our economy. Think about all the retired farmers who could invest in new businesses for their family, that would bring an incredible amount of wealth, and in fact reward people for their life’s work.”
Poilievre also said that no interest group or person should have veto power on any major project.
He said in meeting with local municipal representatives he was inspired by pre-permitting and shovel-ready zones and implementing that in all levels of government.
“This is our vision, to make this country a place where there are bigger pensions and paychecks for people, and that those dollars go further.”
He advocates for smaller government, less bureaucracy, and getting tougher on crime, repealing the present ‘catch and release’ laws.
“We are going to bring in a law that says three strikes and you’re out. Three repeat violent offences, or serious offences, you’re no longer eligible for bail, parole, probation, or house arrest; it’s going to be jail, not bail. And once we lock these guys up, the crime
Continued on Page 10
JOHN’S RANT OPINION
Years ago, I joined several friends for a long weekend gathering at a cabin north of Edmonton.
Sometime during the revelry, one of my friends, and one must remember we are all journalists, launched into a tirade about “What is Truth?”
That is a very deep question and one that still lingers in my memory to this day.
So as we celebrate Canada’a birthday this week let’s examine truth and why some people want to stifle it.
In last week’s OldsDidsbury-Three Hills byelection Alberta Republican Party leader and candidate Cameron Davies was touted to be the best thing on the horizon for Alberta’s separatist movement, and in the central Alberta hot bed of separatism he should be an easy winner.
Right?
After all, the constituency under a different name and in a different era had elected Alberta’s only separatist MLA Gordon Kessler to one term in the Legislature in the ’80s.
But on June 23, Davies
was trounced by UCP candidate Tara Sawyer who received 9,363 votes for 61.1 per cent of the vote.
Surprisingly the NDP candidate Bev Toews came in second with 3,061 votes and 30 per cent of the vote.
Where was Davies?
Well he was a distant third gathering 2,705 votes for 17.7 per cent of the vote.
Which pretty much sums up the state of Alberta Separatism.
While there is a disgruntled minority mumbling about in the corners of coffee shops and taverns, the majority seemingly want to remain in Canada.
Yet our Premier Danielle Smith shouts to Ottawa, even after the election, the threat of separatism is at an all time high in this province and NDP leader Naheed Nenshi screams in his victory speech at Edmonton strathcona that Smith is a separatist.
All true?
I certainly disagree with both statements and would love to know what they are based on.
But unfortunately, our mainstream media no
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longer asks these questions.
They prefer to run with the titillating sound bites.
Which brings me to Ken Chapman.
He is the founder of Reboot Alberta, a blog where people can discourse on how they feel about our Alberta and Federal politics.
Chapman, whom I met through the Alberta Party many years ago, is a smart fellow. For the most part I agree with many of his stances while I disagree with some others.
But he’s doing something weird when it comes to separatism. He hooked up, along with former Conservative Thomas Lukaszuk, to get up a petition to show solid support for Alberta remaining in Canada.
They are doing this to try and get into a tug of war with the separatists who are also trying to get a petition to host a referendum on separation.
I have no problem with either of these petitions moving forward and I wouldn’t sign either one.
I’m not a separatist.
But I do agree the Trudeau regime did
Who determines what is truth?
much to destroy national unity across Canada, yet I’m willing to give PM Mark Carney a chance to reverse some of the Trudeau stupidity.
But recently Chapman posted an email stating he had been concerned about a separatist meeting or town hall being held in the German Club of Lethbridge.
He expressed his concern to the club and in a reply the club said in part, the club had concerns with the meeting and “after reviewing the matter we have cancelled the event and we at the GCCL (don’t) condone any organization that promotes any type of radicalization.”
In a separate blog post June 22, Chapman writes, “individual members of the Reboot Alberta community are contacting private and public venues renting facilities for the Separatist Alberta Prosperity Project events.
“Their message is direct, as proud Albertans and loyal Canadians are disappointed that the venues are enabling efforts to have Alberta separated from Canada.”
Chapman goes on to write Reboot Alberta
members “are expressing disappointment that the venues are enabling the spread of misinformation on Alberta’s relationship with and within Canada.”
And this is where I have a problem.
Ken, what is truth and what is misinformation?
Should I take Chapman’s word that the people hosting these separatist meetings are spreading misinformation?
Or is Chapman spreading the misinformation?
As a journalist the rule of thumb is three separate sources telling you the same thing constitutes a true fact.
But still I believe it is up to each individual to do their own research to find the facts and seek out the truth.
I would expect that somewhere between the message of the separatists, and the message of Chapman and his pal Lukaszuk, on the reasons and value of remaining in Canada lies the truth.
But by trying to suppress free speech of those separatists from sharing their message is just wrong.
Let the people decide
what is the truth.
Chapman and his worry about separatists is certainly allowed.
I’m sure many have concerns.
But only by attending their meetings, hearing their message, attending a pro Canada rally and hearing that message and then doing your own research and talking amongst your friends and neighbours will you arrive and what should be the truth.
And as the election in Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills showed nationalism won out.
Despite the claims of NDP leader Naheed Nenshi, Premier Danielle Smith has never endorsed separatism.
And a smart person like Ken Chapman shouldn’t be trying to have meetings, so people can state their opinions and rationale for a stand cancelled.
We live in a democracy and what Chapman suggests is more like something you would see in a dictatorship.
Let regular Albertans decide what they want. They aren’t stupid people.
JOHN MATHER
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Ryley School holds Grade 4 farewell
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Families gathered in the C.W. Sears Elementary School gymnasium in Tofield on Thursday, June 26 to attend the annual Grade 4 farewell ceremony.
To begin, Lilith Cronkhite and Bree Weiss read the treaty acknowledgment, and Principal Adam Madsen congratulated the 58 students on their hard work.
“Today we celebrate the accomplishments of our Grade 4 students and wish them well as they complete their C.W. Sears school career. Although you still have a few years left of grade school in front of you, this marks one of the important milestones along that journey. You've learned and grown so much and you've made so many W.I.S.E. choices.
“The staff at C.W. Sears are so proud of all of the progress that you've made at our school and I know you will be prepared to succeed at Tofield School. It has come time for you to leave your C.W. Sears desk and fly across the field to the big school. We know you will go on to do great things,” Mr. Madsen said.
As part of the ceremony, the W.I.S.E. awards were presented to this year’s recipients.
“We present an award to one student for each letter. W, work hard, I, include others, S, show respect, and E, everywhere. Each student receiving an award also gets a medal and a cheque for $25 from one of our sponsors,” Mr. Madsen said.
This year’s award recipients were Anna Trudel, Dawson Murphy, Theodore Fraser-
Antonelli, and Abby Broemeling was awarded the Everywhere award, which is also the John Sharrow award.
The students also showcased their recorder playing talent and performed four songs, the most difficult, teacher Cheryl Laxdal said, being Ode to Joy.
“The Grade 4 students
have worked so terribly hard, learning their music and practicing, and they’ve done a tremendous job. I had red, white, blue, and gold certificates, and the students had to perform two songs per level. These songs got harder and harder, and the top song was Ode to Joy. And this year, I've had a Continued on Page 17
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KARI JANZEN PHOTO
C.W. Sears Elementary School held their annual Grade 4 farewell on Thursday, June 26. During part of the ceremony the students showcased their recorder playing talent
Holden library summer program different look this year
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
This year the Holden Municipal Library’s summer reading program has a different look to it, as there will be no in-person daily program held at the library.
Instead, local kids aged four and up can stop by the library during their regular hours to get their own reading log book to track their reading hours and pick up craft bags to take home.
Library manager
Annette Chrystian said unfortunately, the Holden library was not successful in getting the grant which allows them to run the kids program and have the library open six days a week throughout July and August as they usually do.
So, she came up with an alternative.
Prizes for reading hours logged for the month of July will be available on Tuesday, August 5, and on August 30 for the rest of the
hours read during the summer.
As well, found online, the Northern Lights Library System (NLLS) is holding a chalk art contest throughout the month of July, and the winner will be voted in by the people.
“Create, photograph, and submit your chalk art for a chance to win a Paint-Your-Own-Stepping-Stone kit.
“Entries can be submitted from July 1 to July 27 and will be displayed on our website for
voting from August 4 to 17.
“The entry with the most votes at the end of this period wins,” the NLLS website says.
There are no age restrictions on the contest, but the website notes that the prize is suited to a child aged 3 to 12. Entries may by submitted by individuals or one group project.
“Entries may be inside or outside and you are welcome and encouraged to submit a single entry as a family or
group or an entry for each family or group member,” the website says.
Tofield Middle school award recipients continued
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Several students who received recognition at the Tofield School middle school awards ceremony on Thursday, June 19 were unintentionally left out of the coverage of the event in last week’s edition of the Tofield Mercury. Students who received the Academic Excellence Elementary award in Grade 6 included Eliza-
beth Crawford, Daniel Dodds, Chase Ferron, Quinn Hall, Myra Hudson, Max Jeffrey, Blakely Osmond, and Owen Stauffer.
Students who received the Most Improved award
in Grade 7 and 8 were Tannyn Elkow, Molly Wagar, Dane Fitzpatrick, and Rilee Thomas.
Grade 8 students who received First Class Honours were Ella Appleby, Ezra Asante, Marquizzo
Bacho, Ashley Belda, Kennedy Boucher, Jade Cronkhite, Tyler Dawe, Kellyn Gallinger, Jorja Gillan, Elizabeth Payne, Aleah Ismond, Keely Lutz, Paityn Reiser, Analise Sallie, Breana Scott, Kylin Thom, and Eve Torpe. We extend our apologies for the mistake and thank the proud grandmothers who notified us of our error.
Grade 8 First Class Honours. KARI JANZEN PHOTO
rate will go down.”
Poilievre said that he wants to make changes to reward those people who work hard, pay their taxes, and play by the rules. “We are going to stand up for farming families and for rural life. That also means reversing the gun grab,” he added, to great applause.
“Our mission is about, and Damien will agree, it’s about standing up for the freedoms and the rights of law-abiding people and folks that carry the nation on their shoulders.
“That’s why we’re in this, that’s our purpose, and it will be a privilege, should you so choose, for me to have the chance to fight for you and to carry on these values, in order to move towards a new future for our country. One that puts you back in charge of your life.”
Kurek and Poilievre then opened the floor to questions from the audience.
Question period ranged from sharing viewpoints to asking specific questions. Poilievre was asked about strengthening ethics and accountability rules for politicians, and said he agreed it was necessary.
He was asked about fighting for the residents of Battle River-Crowfoot, specifically, and said that he wants to follow in the footsteps of Sorenson and Kurek, adding that Kurek has committed to running again as the Battle RiverCrowfoot candidate in the next federal election.
“And in the interim period, to helping me stay on top of what’s happening in the region, every single week, and probably more than that.
“It’s my intention to raise the voice of the people of Battle River Crowfoot as your local member of parliament, should you give me that honour, and to do so with the guidance and direction of the best local champion that this region has.”
Kurek added his comments then, saying,
“Pierre was used to hearing from me before about local issues, and in fact Hardisty and the tank farm was a common theme. Pierre being a champion for this region doesn’t simply start if he becomes your MP on byelection day. He has been fighting for the values that we all stand for as the leader of this party since I got to know him when I was first elected in 2019.”
Poilievre was asked if he was planning to live in the region, and he replied, “I’m not, I actually live in a hotel room. I live in hotel rooms in Sault Ste. Marie, in BC, and across the country. The Leader of the Opposition resides, typically, in the Capitol.
“But I do plan to be in community, in the region, and the communities in the region as often as possible to maintain the connection.”
Poilievre said his government would continue to fight the Chinese tariffs, and introduce consequences to continued agricultural tariffs, especially against the Chinese, a “massively export-driven economy.” He said re-
garding the USA, he’s hoping the president will reverse his “protectionist agenda,” allowing Canada to resume being, ‘the greatest trading partner the United States has ever had.’ He said, “America does have problems with foreign trading partners; but Canada’s not one of them.”
He talked about increasing spending on the military and continental defence of our shared interests, about slowing down immigration to let housing, jobs, and healthcare catch up. He talked about removing barriers for immigrant nurses and doctors, as well as other professionals.
Kurek said the evening was about having local people having an opportunity to speak with Poilievre. He reiterated that it is up to the Prime Minister to call the byelection, which they are hoping will happen in the next few weeks, putting
voting in August.
“Obviously, you need to make sure to vote for Poilievre. Even though it’s a by-election, your vote matters, and it matters that you make the time to vote when that time comes.”
People were then given an opportunity to talk with and have photos taken with Poilievre, who stayed until the line was done.
The Hardisty Fire Department acted as security for the evening.
LESLIE CHOLOWSKY PHOTO
Canadian Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre was in Hardisty on Saturday, June 21, where he met with local managers and representatives from Hardisty Terminal, got a detailed tour of the Terminal, and then met with locals at a community town hall.
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Beaver County Council approved a request for the reeve to write a letter of support to the Alberta CTS Academy for development of virtual high school career training in the Beaver Region.
A successful motion by Reeve Kevin Smook (Division 1) authorized council to request he write a letter of support.
However, Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) objected to the motion and asked for a recorded vote.
The letter is to support the CTS Academy’s development of virtual high school career training in the Beaver Region.
Council had heard a presentation by Paul Bohnert last April about a virtual high school partnership that focuses on vocational and professional career training, said Deborah Zuch, general manager
of community and protective services, in her June 18 report to council.
She explained that CTS Academy uses existing school and other spaces in the community to deliver their courses.
This would take place “at a variety of times throughout the school day for students to access on their own schedule,” Zuch explained.
“This greatly augments often limited or non-existent offerings in public schools.
“Students and their families can plan and build a pick-list of appropriate, interest-based training for the students to access from his or her home location.”
The academy would provide over 200 introductory and 300 intermediate 1credit courses, she said, “that combine career development and employment readiness for high school students studying from their home locations.”
Zuch told council the courses span over 500 different occupations.
Beaver County is just one of 14 municipalities across Alberta visited by Bohnert to try and establish the academy with approval from the Minister of Education.
The county’s Governance and Priorities Committee recommended the idea of a letter of support to council two weeks previously.
But Hrabec opposed the motion, stating he felt the Holden Rural Academy should be supported by the county, not this new outside initiative.
“I’m not prepared to support this because there’s been no follow up done,” he said. “We need to ensure there is no competition to the rural school in Holden.”
In defending his motion, Reeve Smook said the HRA Academy was being pro-
Deputy Reeve opposes support for virtual training academyexpresses concern about competition for Holden Rural Academy
active and was not in competition with the Holden Rural Academy, “as we wouldn’t want that, either.”
Hrabec said he asked the presenter at the GPC meeting if he had spoken to the Holden Rural Academy and other area schools about the proposed online academy.
But he appeared to be dissatisfied with the answer that there was no competition because the virtual academy doesn’t offer the same courses.
Hrabec asked for a recorded vote before opposing the reeve’s motion to write a letter in support.
Hrabec represents Division 3 in the county, the location for the Holden Rural Academy. He was a strong supporter of the local community’s initiative to found the HRA after the Battle River School Division closed its school about five years ago.
County passes Operating and Capital Reserves policy after council decision
“as well as to prevent large increases in tax levies.
After some in-depth discussion by county council, Policy #Corp-018, Operating and Capital Reserves Schedules A-D, was passed.
The revised policy was brought before Beaver County’s regular June 18 meeting of council by Ryan Arndt, General Manager of Corporate Services.
Arndt recommended that council approve the revised Schedules A-D of Policy #Corp-18, Operations and Capital Reserves.
“Following the publication of the annual financial statements, administration must prepare updated Schedules AD for council approval,” said Arndt, in his report.
“As budgeting is an estimate at a point in time, it is in the county’s best interests to have reserves to draw on for unforeseeable circumstances,” he explained,
“A healthy reserve also provides interest revenue for the county to help mitigate tax levy increases,” he said.
As for financial implications, he said that, “transparency and healthy reserves are both key to financial sustainability and responsible planning for the county.”
Also, “reserves alleviate large fluctuations in municipal levies from year to year,” he said.
Council passed the revised bylaw but not before much discussion ensued.
Contingency reserve funding went down to $3 million, said Williams, asking where another $2.5 million of those funds went.
When Arndt answered that the $2.5 million was “reallocated to public works,” Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) asked: “Is this common?”
Chief Administrative Officer Kayleena Spiess confirmed that “50 per cent goes to the public works account,” and the other 50 per cent is assigned “at the CAO’s discretion,” as per county policy.
Spiess added that her allocations would be done through consulting with county council.
Hrabec then questioned the $277,000 allocated for the Paragon Theatre. The theatre, a county-owned property, had been demolished last winter.
Arndt said the funds are “to be allocated for outstanding bills,” and the funds that are left over would be re-allocated.
Hrabec replied that his understanding was that leftover funds “would go to the community.” Paragon Theatre was located on the Village of Holden’s main street.
Spiess said funds that are left over “haven’t been divvied up yet,” but the work regarding the Paragon Theatre “is almost done.”
She added that talks are underway with the Village of Holden regarding possibly funding for a recreational facility. But, “we have to earmark… the funds that are left,” she said.
Hrabec said funding for this initiative could come “from other sources, too.” CAO Spiess said the county “should be wrapped up with the Paragon soon.”
And she said that 50 per cent of the contingency funds could go to other projects, “but this is not outlined in the policy specifically.”
“My question is not about the policy,” said Williams, who referred to the 50 per cent that goes to public works for infrastructure, and the other 50 per cent that “goes to the CAO’s discretion depending on what goals there are.”
Spiess replied that “If you need extra funds come back to council,” and was alright with the policy as presented.
Council approved the revised policy upon a motion by Williams.
Hubert & Margaret Graham
Patricia Harcourt
Patricia Harcourt
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July16
9:30AM-12:00PM-GovernanceandPrioritiesCommitteeMeeting 1:00PM-4:00PM-RegularCouncilMeeting IMPORTANTDATES
9:30AM-12:00PM-GovernanceandPrioritiesCommitteeMeeting 1:00PM-4:00PM-RegularCouncilMeeting August20
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BookClub
Location:RossCreekCommunityHall,531041RgeRd191 RuralbookclubthatmeetsthefirstTuesdayofeachmonth.Meetings runfrom7PM-8PM,allageswelcome!
TofieldAA -Thursdays,8-9PM BasementofBardoLutheranChurch,473757Ave,Tofield. VikingAA -Wednesdays,8PM,Zoomoptionalsoavailable. GoldenValleyLutheranChurch,532756Ave,Viking. https://area78aa.org/meetings/147-3
Submityourevent/s,meetingsand/orgatheringstotheeventscalendaronthewebsite! Justheadtothewebsite,undertheExploremenuclickonCountyRegionEvents Calendar.WehavepartneredwithGoEasttosharelocaleventsonourwebsite!
ComeworkwithusonOctober20,2025.Positionsavailable...
Formoreinformation,anddetailsonhowtoapply,visit ourwebsite>Government>Careers,orscantheQRcode.
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Phone:780.663.2038
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CONTRACTORWANTED:TOFIELDCURLINGCLUB PROJECT:
TheTofieldCurlingClubisseekingaqualifiedcontractorforthedemolition andrebuildofafoyerenclosure(vestibule).Completeengineereddrawings areavailable.Permitaccessandutilitylocateshavealreadybeencompleted. Formoreinformationortoexpressinterest,pleasecontact:DaveSchultz
Home:780-662-3956
Cell:780-278-0816
Email:tschultz@una.ca
Formoreinformation, anddetailsonhowto apply,visitourwebsite >Government>Careers
BeaverCountyiscurrentlyacceptingsubmissionsforthe following:
BruceandKinsellaRoadRehabilitation-2025-07-INFR Closes:July18,2025@10a.m.Localtime
Pleasefindcompleteinformationforall requestsonourwebsite>Business> RFPs,Tenders,Leases&Sales
CONSTRUCTIONUPDATEFORTHEFOLLOWING
RGERD200fromHWY630toHoopersDrive&Campground
Entrance
WhisperingHillsEstates
RGERD200betweenHWY630&BlackfootGrazingReserve Entrance
TWPRD492approximately1.72kmseastofRGERD170
Thesoilstabilizingfortheroadbasewithsoilcementisnowcomplete.We willsoonbestartingthefirstlayerofchipsealandtheremaybedelaysas workcrewsdirecttrafficinordertoworksafely.Therewillbemanyloose rocksafterthechipseallayerisappliedandspeedlimitswillbereduced ontheseroadsonceopeneduntiltheprojectiscomplete.
Duringthisconstructionphase,portionsoftheroadmaybeclosedto allowcrewstoworksafelypleaseuseanotherroute,detourswillbe postedorbecautiouswhenyouneedtodrivethroughconstruction zones(localtrafficonly). BeaverCounty'sgoalistoprovideahealthy, injuryfreeworkenvironmentforallemployees,contractors,visitorsand generalpublic.Alreadythisyearwehavehadpeopleexceedingthe postedspeedlimitthroughourconstructionzones,endangeringstaff, contractorsandthepublic.
Therearepotentialhazardstothepublicandvehiclesduringthe constructionprocess.Thiscanincludeheavymachinery,dustormud,road materialsuchasgravel,asphaltcoatingsandrockchips.
Weapologizefortheinconveniencethatroadmaintenanceand upgradingcauses,butthesameroadsthatreceivethemosttrafficalso needthemostmaintenance.Thank-youforyourpatienceand understandingduringconstruction.Ifyouhaveanyquestions,pleasecall theBeaverCountyServiceCentreat780-663-3730.
ROADCLOSURE:BRIDGEREPLACEMENT
RGERD171fromTWP484to490willbeclosedstartingonJuly2fora bridgereplacement.Localtrafficwillbeaccommodated,however,no throughtrafficwillbeallowed.Weatherdependent,workisexpectedto lastapproximatelyonemonth.Pleaseusealternateroutesasposted.
Overthesummer,Countyconstructioncrewshavebeenworkingto upgradethefollowingroads: KingswayEstates RGERD202betweenTWPRD502&504 BeaverCreekEstatesNorth50514RGERD202
Theselocationswillsoonbegintoreceivethesecondlayerofchipsealand theremaybedelaysasworkcrews'directtraffictoworksafely.Therewill bemanylooserocksafterthesecondchipseallayerisappliedandspeed limitswillcontinuetobereducedontheseroadsuntilthefinalsweepis complete.BeaverCounty'sgoalistoprovideahealthy,injuryfreework environmentforallemployees,contractors,visitors,andgeneralpublic. Therearepotentialhazardstothepublicandvehiclesduringthe constructionprocess.Thiscanincludeheavymachinery,dustormud,road materialsuchasgravel,asphaltcoatingsandrockchips. Weapologizefortheinconveniencethatroadmaintenanceand upgradingcauses,butthesameroadsthatreceivethemosttrafficalso needthemostmaintenance.Thank-youforyourpatienceand understandingduringconstruction.Ifyouhaveanyquestions,pleasecall theBeaverCountyServiceCentreat780-663-3730.
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Getnews,meetinghighlights,theroad constructionschedule,theChronicle,and more-directtoyourinbox!
Twp490betweenHwy857&RgeRd 142 Jul2 Jul25
Twp490betweenHwy870&RgeRd 120 Jul28 Aug22
TwpRd512fromRgeRd191toHWY 834 Aug25 Sep3
ShoulderPulls(LocationTBD)
Overthecomingweeks,TWPRD490BetweenHwy857&RGERD142will undergoasignificantroadrepairtoadurable,all-weatherhardsurface. Thisimprovementincludesstabilizingtheexistingroadbasewithsoil cement,followedbytheapplicationoftwolayersofchipseal.Although thisprocessdiffersfromtraditionalasphaltpaving,residentsandmotorists willenjoyasimilarfinishedsurface—dust-freewhendryandmud-free whenwet.
Duringconstruction,sectionsoftheroadmaybetemporarilyclosedto allowcrewstoworksafely.Detourswillbeclearlymarked.Pleaseplan alternaterouteswherepossibleordrivecautiouslyifyoumusttravel throughtheconstructionzone(localtrafficonly).
BeaverCountyiscommittedtomaintainingasafe,injury-freework environmentforallstaff,contractors,andthepublic.Wekindlyremindall driverstorespectpostedspeedlimitsinconstructionareas.Excessive speedposesaseriousrisktoworkersandothersinthearea.
Constructionsitescanpresentpotentialhazardssuchasheavy equipment,dust,mud,gravel,chipsealmaterials,andotherdebris.We urgeeveryonetostayalertandtravelwithcare.
Weappreciateyourpatienceandunderstandingasweworktoimprove yourroads.Theseupgradesareessentialtomaintainingsafeandreliable infrastructureinhigh-trafficareas.
Formoreinformation,pleasecontacttheBeaverCountyServiceCentreat 780-663-3730.
Website InformationonCountyprogramsandservicescan befoundonourwebsite,alongwiththelatestnews.
4 - Beaver County Chronicle, July 2, 2025
Council decisions made concerning youth programs
Patricia Harcourt
Decisions were made on youth issues and programs at Beaver County council’s June 18 regular meeting.
Deborah Juch, general manager of community and protective services for the county, brought forward an amended Policy #CS-017, Youth Education of Government and its accompanying administrative procedure.
Juch provided background information for council. The Youth Education of Government Policy was established in recognition that “ understanding the democratic process fosters civic engagement, strengthens community leadership, and contributes to a vibrant, well-informed democracy,” she said, adding, “The policy supports students participating in non-partisan programs that focus on educating youth about government, civic
responsibility, and leadership development.”
During county budget talks this spring, council increased the total available funding for awards for the youth program to $4,000
“As a result, updates are necessary to ensure the policy aligns with this budget,” said Juch. The Governance and Priorities Committee recommended council approve the revised bill after a review was done in June.
“The revisions improve consistency and clarity and update the program to align with other funding programs offered by the county,” she said.
Key changes in the revised policy include the following:
For the Social Studies 30 Award, the maximum funding per recipient goes from $250 to $500 for a total of four available awards.
Also, the application deadline would be moved from September 15
to June 30 of each year to allow sufficient notice for eligible applicants.
For extra-curricular programs, the total available funding is increased from $1,000 to $2,000 to help support eligible applicants. This application date would change from May 31 to September 15 to better align it with summer program schedules.
And, application forms have been reviewed and updated “to reflect the proposed policy amendments,” she said, adding: “They are separate from the policy to allow for easier updates by administration in the future.”
A motion by Councillor Barry Bruce (Division 4) to accept the newly revised policy was passed by council.
On a motion by Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3), the revised Edward and Marie Stelmach Scholarship policy was also passed by council.
Juch explained that this scholarship
“was developed to honour the leadership, dedication and public service of Edward and Marie Stelmach, particularly during Mr. Stelmach’s time as Premier and Minister for the Province of Alberta.
“Beaver County established this scholarship to recognize their lasting contributions and to support local youth in their pursuit of post-secondary education.”
This year, council increased the total funding available for this policy to $4,000, which has been approved in the 2025 final budget. This requires updates to the policy to align with these changes.
The key change in policy was the increase in funding per recipient to rise from a maximum of $1,000 to a maximum of $2,000, or $4,000 in total for two successful applicants.
This means the emphasis will be on higher grants rather than more students receiving grants.
County wraps up agricultural matters with final readings on policy changes
Patricia Harcourt
Several agricultural matters were finalized at the June 18 meeting of county council with final readings on policy changes.
Agricultural Fieldman Jonathan Culbert brought back several issues after being introduced at the May meeting. First reading went to some policies up for change to give residents a chance to look them over and offer any comments before proceeding.
First reading was given at the May 21 meeting to the proposed Bylaw#25-1172, the Agricultural Notice of Appeal Committees.
“The proposed bylaw has since been available to the public for feedback and no feedback has been received,” Culbert reported.
“As such, administration recommends that council pass both the second and third reading of the proposed bylaw.”
Culbert made a stipulation in his report that “members of these committees cannot be any individuals involved or associated with the issuing of agricultural notices,” under the Weed Control Act or the Agricultural Pests Act.
Those not allowed on these committees were named as from county council, the Agricultural Service Board, the Agricultural Fieldman, among others.
However, under the Soil Conservation Act, rural municipalities must appoint either council or Ag Service Board members as the appeal committee to hear appeals received under the SCA.
And, since these are appointments that must be done through bylaw, Culbert as fieldman has presented an
Agricultural Notice of Appeal Committees bylaw.
Culbert said the proposed bylaw would “meet the requirements of the Acts listed above.” He added that, “the purpose of the bylaw is to provide legitimacy to the different agricultural appeal committees, and to provide guidance on the committee’s functions, structure and meeting procedures.”
Councillor Barry Bruce (Division 4) made a FOIP-related motion as requested by administration to clean up the wording in Section 14 of the bylaw.
Then Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) made a motion to pass second reading on the bylaw as amended. When this motion passed, a motion for third and final reading was made by Councillor Lionel Williams (Division 2) which passed to enact the revised bylaw.
Council then gave second and third (final) readings to Bylaw #25-1173, the Agricultural Service Board.
As with the previous bylaw, Culbert said there was no public feedback following first reading in May.
Previous to this, the county had a Terms of Reference but no bylaw or policy in place “to establish the ASB.”
Alberta’s Agriculture and Irrigation Department does not require a bylaw, he said.
“But there have been instances where neighbouring municipalities have faced challenges regarding the legitimacy of their ASBs,” said Culbert. “Specifically, agricultural notices and enforcement actions have been questioned or rescinded due to concerns over the absence of a formal bylaw, leaving the municipalities vul-
nerable to legal or operational difficulties.”
With these concerns, he advised county council to implement its own ASB bylaw. He said this would “ensure the county’s compliance with legislative requirements and to safeguard the authority and legitimacy of the ASB.”
And, he said, it would “solidify the ASB’s role in advising council on agricultural policies,” and “provide a clear and structured framework for fulfill-
ing its duties under the Act.”
The bylaw passed by council also “provides clear guidelines for the ASB’s operations, including the roles and responsibilities of its members, its powers to enforce relevant agricultural laws, its processes for issuing agricultural notices, and other related duties,” he explained.
“It also outlines procedures for conducting ASB meetings, which is not addressed in the current Terms of Reference,” he added.
The U11-1 Tofield baseball team has officially finished up their season. Coach Craig Neufeld said the team had an up and down season but battled in most every game. "We had five out of 11 players enjoying their first year of baseball, which showed at the start of the season. With some hard work and determination our athletes only got stronger as the season went on. We ended the season losing our last 2 out of 3, however, only losing each by one. Struggling to get offense throughout the season turned into a non-issue for playoffs as we won our first game 16-2. Going into the gold medal game against local rival Round Hill, Tofield started off strong getting up 93 after three innings. Round Hill clawed back to get within one run at 9-8 going into the fifth inning. Tofield managed to chalk three more runs for insurance, giving us a four run buffer leading into the home team's half of the final inning. Round Hill wasn’t backing down and put two more runs up, and runners on second and third bases with two outs. With the final batter up to the plate, they hit a hard line drive out to right field. Our fielder got the ball into the cutoff and relayed it home to beat the tying run, which ended in a rundown back to third, resulting in the final out and securing the gold medal for our very excited young group of players," he said.Back row (L-R): Coach-Craig Neufeld, Coach Brant Shaw, Coach Andrew Gillan. Middle row (L-R): Grayson Steinwand, Walker Lungal, Bentley Ruzycki, Rhett Chicoine, Rhett Neufeld, Griffin Neufeld, Zane Lehman. Front row (L-R): Rhett Shaw, Grady Gillan. PHOTO SUPPLIED
13U Tofield Minor Baseball Team won silver in the Tier 3 CUB playoffs in Wetaskiwin this year. Tofield won the semifinal vs Round Hill with a final score of 21-16. Tofield lost the final vs Wetaskiwin 21-22. “The 2025 season welcomed nine new players to the team, and we took home our first two wins in two years!” stated Coach Pam Webb. This was Adam Hall and Pam Webb’s third consecutive year coaching together. “Also this year TMBA hosted their first annual ‘Clash of the Titans’ tournament for 11U, 13U and 15U teams from St. Albert, Sylvan Lake, Edmonton, Rimbey and a few others,” said Webb. Back row (L-R): Hunter Jackson, Cooper Olson, Max Jeffrey, Quinn Hall, Coach Adam Hall, Owen Stauffer, and Coach Pam Webb. Front row (L-R): Jaxson Strangways, Daniel Dodds, Gwen Webb, Nolan Strilchuk and Declan Larsen. Missing: Camryn Appleby, Ivy Lande and Matthew Lampitt.
18U Tofield Minor Baseball Team won gold in the Tier 4 playoffs held in Spruce Grove. Tofield won the semifinal game vs Sherwood Park 12-7. Tofield went on to play the final gold medal game vs St. Albert team 2. Tofield won, the score was 4-0. Back row (L-R): Coach Jason Pope, Scott Jardine, Cale Helfrich, Colton Munson, Kayden Steinwand, coach Logan Denny, Parker Stewart-Cantin, Porter Hawkins, Colton Kuflay, Brent Hanasyk, Owen Rennie, coach James Rennie. Front row (L-R) kneeling: Blake Petrie, Gabriel Hall, Brandon Jardine and Logan Kropp. Front: Mason Kyle Jeffrey.
Eighth-Mile Racing at Forestburg (Old Airport) 1km west
july 5 & 6
Friday Racers Gates Open at 5 p.m. RACERS - Car & Driver - $80/day
This includes $20 that goes towards payouts in your class with a 60/40 split for First and Second AREA 53 MEMBERS $70/day Pit Crew by a donation
Saturday/Sunday Racers
Gates Open at 7 a.m. Tech 8-10 a.m. - Racing at 10 a.m.
Spectators Welcome! Gate entry is by cash donation
PHOTO SUPPLIED
LISA KUFLAY PHOTO
PRICING
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers 16,000 readers
CARD OF THANKS
The Lions Club has been very generous in giving our Club a monetary donation, which we have used to cover the costs of utilizing the school gym for our program. The Viking Lions Club have supported us, along with many others for years. The Viking Gymnastics Club board, coaches, parents and youth athletes would like to thank you for your great support.
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The family of Doris Swanson would like to thank everyone for their love and support at ther passing. Thank you for coming together to celebrate her life. Your presence means the world to her family. Thank you to the staff of the Hardisty Long Term for your love, care, and compassion while Mom lived there. Thank you to Pastor Nolan and Pastor Doug for doing the service. Thank you to the Wooden Spoon that provided the lunch and the Nazarene Care Committee for serving it. Your kindness and support are truly appreciated.
The Family of Doris Swanson
BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED AD: GET IN 4 PAPERS! GET ONLINE! DIRT CHEAP! CONTACT YOUR LOCAL PAPER!
CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Celebration of Life for
Darren James Young
Please join us as we gather to honor and remember the life of Darren James Young.
CLASSIFIEDS
NOTICES. EVENTS. ANNOUNCEMENTS. THANKS. MEMORIALS. SALES. RENTALS. REAL ESTATE. GIVE AWAYS. & MORE!
COMING EVENTS
A Celebration of Life will be held on:
Saturday, July 12th, 2025 2:00 PM
Royal Canadian Legion, Killam 5117 51 Ave, Killam, Alberta
This will be a time to share stories, memories, and reflect on his life. All are welcome to attend.
Light refreshments will be served. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider a donation to a charity of your choice in Darren’s memory.
25/26p
COMING EVENTS
Viking Municipal Library
Summer Hours starting July 2, 2025
Tues: 1 pm - 7 pm Wed: 10 am - 6 pm Thurs: 10 am - 6 pm 25/26c
Crafty Creations Killam
FINAL CLOSING OUT SALE
All stock except handmade goods40% off, Fabric bolts - whole bolt 50% off. Display cases also for sale. 23/24c
WORD SEARCH
Weekly Chuckle: Why did Earl bring a ladder to the bar? Because he heard drinks were on the house!
Viking Gymnastics Club will be having their registration open August 22, 2025 for our 8 week fall sessions. Please look for more information regarding registration closer to the above date. Don’t forget to sign your kids up fast as registration fills up quickly.
Cloverlodge Stampede Viking Alberta Saturday, July 12 4pm Rodeo Performance. Sunday, July 13 1pm Rodeo Performance Beer gardens, food both days. Grounds located in the NE Corner of Viking, AB near the Golf Course/Curling Rink. Come enjoy the fun! 26/27p
FOR RENT
House for Rent in Viking. 2 bedroom. 55+. Available July 1. Call Rick for more information 780-385-4054 (between 7 and 9 p.m.)
Large 2 bedroom suite for rent in Killam. Large, clean, quiet. Available August 1. Call Chuck at 780-263-7290 26tfnc
FOR SALE
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Used tires; one 215/65 R16 with rim. One P215/70 R15 with rim. Two 215/55 R16 no rims. One 235/65 R16 with rim. One 195/70 R14. Two 215/55 R16 no rims. One P195/65 no rim. One 235/65 R16 rim only. Tent trailer, stove, fridge, sink, furnace, etc needs work. Phone 1-780-603-8812 with offers.
TMP25-26
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Moving, these items must go. 15 cu. ft. freezer $150, 4 wall units $160, slate coffee and end tables $100, as well as a futon $50. Call 780-691-4355. TM26p
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Registered Red & Black Angus bulls for sale. Call 780-986-9088 LL24/27
HELP WANTED
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Live-in caregiver for male in a wheelchair. Living in Round Hill area. Wages etc to be discussed. Email resume to: broblin.br@gmail.com or phone 604-793-3756 TM24-25P
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Senior Citizen living north of Tofield needs a person to mow lawn once per month May - Sept. Self-propelled lawn mower available. Call 780-662-4977
TMP25
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SEEN ALL ACROSS ALBERTA FOR 1 AFFORDABLE PRICE! The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads Network both reach over 500,000 Alberta readers weekly and are also published online.
Three options starting at $269, $299 or $599 to get your message out! KEEP people in the loop with over 75 Weekly Community Newspapers. Email: producton.cp@gmail.com
Elderly Care. Not ready to let go of your freedom (but needing support)? Cooking. Baking. Cleaning. Yard Work. Gardening. Serving Viking-Sedgewick-KillamBruce-Hardisty-Irma. Call Jackie (780) 385-1019 25/28c
PRICING
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers
16,000 readers
Viking Colony
We Repair and Service
All Farm Equipment! Call 780-385-6424 to Make Arrangements 25/28p
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT.
The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-453-5372.
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Town & Country
Guardian Drugs - Killam
We have: •a colour photocopier.
•cold pop and fresh snacks.
•a great selection of giftware, houseware, fragrances, clothing, toys, games, plush animals and more. •a big selection of greeting cards. •stationery. •seasonal gifts
•vitamins, minerals, supplements
•free gift wrapping
•prescription service 6 days a week.
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER.
All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca
General Contractor
Red Seal Journeyman Plumber and Gasfitter. Bathroom Renos & Tile New to the Area.
30 plus Years of Experience. Dave 403-999-8464
CLASSIFIEDS
NOTICES. EVENTS. ANNOUNCEMENTS. THANKS. MEMORIALS. SALES. RENTALS. REAL ESTATE. GIVE AWAYS. & MORE!
Drywall Taping/Ceiling Texturing
Experienced Killam drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job, big or small. Don't want to do it yourself? Give me a call!
Flagstaff Taping & Texturing
Murray Cholowsky Call or text at 780-385-1251
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Medical Taxi Service
Personal Taxi Service to Edmonton and Back -$175
•Office Hours Mon-Fri 9-5
•Absolutely NO Hidden Fees
•Escort to Reception/Waiting Room
•Pick up and Drop off at your door
•Top Notch Service!
•Includes up to 4 Hour Wait
•Locally Owned and Operated 587-987-7810
Crossword
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
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CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.
Tofield full of activity on Canada Day
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Canada Day in Tofield was celebrated in a big way once again this year, with a day full of fun and activity for young and old alike.
“The Canada Day events are a celebration of both country and community,” Tofield Chief Administrative Officer Jeff Edwards said. “A wide variety of groups, clubs, and organizations work to have these celebrations brought to Tofield and provide something for all age groups to enjoy. Collectively, we look forward to the day each year, and to seeing our community thrive,” he said.
The Bardo Lutheran Church’s annual pancake breakfast kicked off the celebration, and saw an excellent turnout. The early birds were able to eat outside, before a storm cloud gathered overhead and drove people indoors. This year’s funds from the breakfast will be going towards the Tofield/Ryley and Area food bank.
“It’s an opportunity to support our local community,” one of the organizers, Lynne Langager said.
“We’ve raised money for different mission projects over the years but because there are other people from the community that are helping with the breakfast this year, including people from other churches, we thought it would be good to have a project that was not spe-
cific to just Bardo Lutheran. We're still supporting our mission projects, but we were feeling that it would be good to support a project close to home, which we also do, but we haven't done with the breakfast before,” Langager said.
In repeat fashion from the year before, paradegoers endured a downpour before the parade, which displayed excellent participation from many local businesses, groups, and organizations who decked out their floats and vehicles to represent this year’s theme: ‘Celebrate Canada, Celebrate Community.’
“Canada Day often seems like a homecoming,” Tofield Mayor Deb Dueck said. “Past residents and relatives often come home to Tofield for the day to participate in the scheduled events hosted by the multiple organizations in the community.
“This can be seen by the number of people lining the streets for the parade, lineups at the fire hall and other venues providing an opportunity for lunch, as well as the hub of activity at the sports grounds. On behalf of myself and council, I hope everyone had a wonderful Canada Day,” Mayor Dueck said.
Following the parade, people walked over to Tofield IGA in droves to get a complimentary piece of cake and cup of coffee, before heading to the
Tofield Legion or Tofield Fire Station for lunch. The Legion served hot dogs and hamburgers, and the proceeds from the Fire Department’s burgers went to the Alberta Lung Association.
At the sports grounds, Katchemut Creek Family Horse Club gymkhana members were kicking up dust in the outdoor arena, and children were bouncing on the inflatables, getting their faces painted, and running through the spray park.
The Tofield Museum and Beaverhill Nature Centre held its annual open house, and offered free admission for Canada Day.
“There was a great turnout and the Tofield Historical Society thanks everyone for their support. This year the themes were Canada, Bardo Lutheran Church celebrates 130 years as a congregation, and the Tofield United Church celebrates 100 years of becoming a united congregation,” museum curator Lorraine McNeely said.
Tofield Beaver County West Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) hosted a family movie at the Tofield Community Hall, as has become tradition, this year showing Dog Man.
To complete the celebration of Canada’s 158th birthday, Tofield and area residents watched the sky light up with bursts of colour from a spectacular fireworks display.
C.W. Sears students watch the life cycles of caterpillars
VANESSA POITRAS PHOTO Tofield Minor Soccer Association held their season wrap up barbeque on Tuesday, June 24.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Students in class 2H at C.W. Sears Elementary School in Tofield watched caterpillars move through their life cycle and then released the butterflies on Monday, June 16. "They released the Painted Lady butterflies with their Grade 4SC reading buddies. Everyone loved watching them fly off," Grade 2 teacher Shauna Heinrichs said.
Local greenhouse gives back to community
Stacey Rude Submitted
Maple Park Farm, a local greenhouse just outside Tofield, recently held a successful donation-based plant sale which raised $2,200 for food banks serving Beaver County.
“The event invited our community to choose from a wide selection of bedding plants, including petunias, begonias, herbs, vegetables, strawberries and more, and make a donation of their choice in support of local families in need. The response was overwhelming!” Stacey Rude said.
The money raised from the sale has been donated to the Viking and Holden Area food bank and the Tofield/Ryley and Area food bank.
“The funds have been distributed to our local food banks that serve Beaver County to help provide essential support for individuals and families facing food insecurity,” Rude said.
Rude said that while the event offered a variety of garden-ready plants, its goal was far greater than gardening: “It was about cultivating kindness, community, and care.”
“This initiative is just one of the ways Maple Park Farm is working to give back and foster a deeper connection between local agriculture and our community,” she said.
Maple Park Farm's recent bedding sale fundraiser raised $2,200 for the Viking and Holden Area food bank and the Tofield/Ryley and Area food bank.
NW 23-50-17 W4M
Being 160 Acres M/L
Starting Price: $200,000.00
This quarter has 40 cultivated acres seeded back to grass using the Duelmaster blend from Nutrien. A new fence has been installed and there is a 5-acre non-habitat area on the quarter that can be used as a potential development site in the future.
For more information about Maple Park Farm and upcoming events, visit their website or find them on social media.
Real Estate Auction for Ducks Unlimited
NW 19-48-17 W5M Being 158.97 Acres M/L
Starting Price: $320,000.00
This quarter is pastureland and fully fenced. There is a 5-acre non-habitat area on the quarter that can be used as a development site in the future
Selling as a 1/2 Section
SW 25-55-15 W4M Being 157.99 Acres M/L & the NW 25-55-15 W4M Being 154.09 Acres M/L
Starting Price: $500,000.00
This half section had approximately 160 cultivated acres that were seeded down to Grass (Meadow Bromegrass, Alfalfa, Tall Fescue, Slender Wheat Grass, Greenleaf Pubescent Wheatgrass).
There is a 5-acre non-habitat area on both quarters that can be developed in the future
Parcel #1
Parcel #2
Parcel #3
L-R: Stacey Rude and Kaitlyn Rude drop off the financial and non-perishable donation in Viking, pictured with Sharon Pobuda.