Viking Legion Honours War Dead at Remembrance Day Services
PATRICIA HARCOURT PHOTOS
The Royal Canadian Legion Viking Branch #81 held a Remembrance Day Ceremony at the Viking Community Centre on Tuesday, November 11. Everyone was invited to remain for lunch following the program. In the evening, a supper was served at the Viking Legion Hall.
Proudly Serving Viking, Irma, Kinsella, Bruce, Holden, Rural Beaver County & Surrounding Areas
Flagstaff Scottish Club member Kari Fox-Newby pipes in the colour party and RCMP at the beginning of the ceremony
Viking Mayor Paul King
Viking Legion Remembrance Day Ceremony
Jeny & Phil see a way to pay it forward.
This is Jeny and Phil, owners of the Twin Butte General Store, which has a post office, general store, music venue, restaurant and smokehouse. In 2024, they got $1028 in profit shares, which they spent on a holiday for their staff. Last year, they went to Mexico; the year before, Cuba. Jeny says they like to reward their team. She also says they’re not hiring right now. (We asked.)
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22
VIKING COMMUNITY HALL 5021 - 54 Ave. Viking, AB
Real people. Real results.
Old signage for engine brakes replaced after 20 years
Patricia Harcourt Editor
The Town of Viking is reinforcing its engine retarder brakes bylaw by erecting new signs on the highway.
The signs are meant to deter the use of the brakes within town limits. Complaints were heard during the summer by Town of Viking Chief Administrative Officer (CA0) Doug Lefsrud and RCMP Detachment
Commander Sgt. Ray Stack.
The concerns involved the “excessive noise” made by commercial vehicles when using their engine retarder brakes when coming into the speed limit zone on the highway, while entering town limits.
Two new signs have since gone up in separate locations that improve visibility for truck drivers. It was decided this would be sufficient and a new bylaw was not
required.
The signs say: “Truckers - Use of engine retarder brakes within corporate limits is prohibited.”
The old 20-year-old signs were worn from weather exposure and reflective lighting material on them was no longer effective in getting the attention of drivers in the dark.
The new signs with higher visibility are positioned north of Viking on Highway 36 and east of
Viking on Highway 619, which are major truck routes going through the Viking area.
Signs were originally put up two decades ago after citizens complained that the use of the engine retarder brakes caused too much noise for residents living along the highway.
“Violations of the bylaw are handled by the bylaw officer” said CAO Lefsrud.
“The Viking RCMP also have a role to educate and support the commercial vehicle inspections when they are conducted in our community.
“This summer Sgt. Stack and the Viking RCMP Detachment assisted in the inspections in August and it was also identified at that time from the drivers of the commercial vehicles the signage was hard to see,” he said.
Lefsrud stated his gratitude to the community for broaching the topic with their concerns on the issue.
“We want to ensure everyone can enjoy their homes and not be interrupted with the noise of an engine retarder brake,” said Lefsrud.
“This update will improve the visibility of
our bylaw to ensure the quiet enjoyment of our citizens.”
The signs were replaced by Emcon Services, with Sgt. Stack attending to have a look at the improved signage. He said people have called the detachment about the noise caused by engine retarder brakes.
However, since this is a town bylaw issue, the
RCMP take the time to educate the community and “work together with the bylaw officer and the town office,” on the issue.
Lefsrud referred anyone interested in the pertaining Noise Control Bylaw No. 99-532 and Amendment No. 2003557 to the Town of Viking website under documents and downloads.
Two new signs prohibiting truckers from using their engine retarder brakes within the town of Viking corporate limits have been erected on Highways 36 and 619.
Holden Council determines local board appointments
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Council for the Village of Holden held a special meeting on Monday, Nov. 10 to appoint the newly elected council members to the local boards and committees. The agenda item had been deferred from the organizational meeting held Monday, Oct. 27 so that the councillors could first attend the regional council presentations and joint council orientation later that same week.
Council decided to remove Battle River Alliance for Economic Development from the list of boards and committees. Councillor Alan Ramshaw was appointed to the Beaver Ambulance Society with Councillor Tammy Hill as alternate.
Mayor Carl Marsh and Deputy Mayor Tyler Beckett were appointed to the Beaver County Intermunicipal Committee, with Councillor Shawn Cole appointed as alternate. After much discussion, Beckett was appointed to the Beaver Emergency Services Commission with Hill as alternate.
Hill was appointed to Beaver Foundation with Beckett as the alternate, Ramshaw will represent
Council on the Claystone Waste Public Advisory Committee with Marsh as the alternate, and, as is often held by the mayor and deputy mayor, Marsh and Beckett were appointed to the Beaver Regional Partnership Committee.
Hill will represent Council on the Beaverhill Players Society with Cole as the alternate.
In the past, Council used to appoint two members and two alternates to the Farmer’s Day Planning Committee but this year Council decided to reduce the representation on that board to one member and one alternate, and those positions will be held by Cole and Hill, respectively.
Hill was appointed to the Go East board with Ramshaw as alternate. Marsh, as mayor, was appointed to the Heritage Resources Committee with Cole as alternate.
Marsh was appointed to the Highway 14 Regional Water Services Commission with Beckett as alternate.
Ramshaw will sit on the Holden Agricultural Society board and Cole will serve as the alternate. Hill will represent the Village for the Holden Community Hall Association with Beckett as the alternate.
Ramshaw and Beckett were appointed to the Holden Economic Development Committee with Hill as alternate. Cole will represent the Village on the Holden Historical Society (Museum), with Marsh as the alternate.
Hill was appointed to both the Holden Library Board and the Northern Lights Library System (NLLS), with Ramshaw as the alternate for NLLS, as alternates are not permitted on the Holden Library Board.
Marsh was appointed to the Intermunicipal Development Planning Committee with Beckett as alternate.
Cole was appointed as the member for Studio 14 (The Gallery) and Marsh was appointed as alternate.
Cole was appointed to the Tofield and Area Health Services Foundation with Hill as alternate. Ramshaw was appointed to the Viking/Beaver Family and Community Support Services board with Hill as the alternate. The next regular meeting of Council is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 17.
Dear Editor;
The latest Tofield Mercury saw the newspaper publish a column from current Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely, where she is wanting to pat herself and her fellow UCP cohorts on their backs for silencing the teachers and sending them back to their schools via using the notwithstanding hammer. I simply cannot let her remarks slip by uncontested.
Does Lovely not wish to take her share of the credit for maneuvering Alberta to the absolute bottom when it comes to dollars spent per capita on student education in Canada. Did she have a hand in the UCP's decision to stop tracking class sizes in Alberta a few years ago?
I take umbrage with Lovely's suggestion that their 'decision to use the notwithstanding clause wasn't one that we took lightly'. Why then did the UCP stifle and limit debate in the Legislature on such an important Statute as the Charter of Rights and Freedoms? Why
OPINION
LETTER TO THE EDITOR LETTER THE
did her Premier not stay for the debate or the vote on this very critical matter?
For the record the UCP did not bargain fairly or in good faith with the Alberta Teachers' Association! Despite the fact that the teachers had accepted little by way of wage increases over the last 10 years with the promise of better times to come, the UCP set an arbitrary wage position and sat on it, with no intent of moving off of it. They did not negotiate! The UCP essentially forced the teachers to strike!
And further, in regards to the UCP's alleged commitment to hire 3,000 additional teachers to address the class size and complexity issues that they are now somehow magically aware of, I suggest who in their right mind would want to come to work here in Alberta with the UCP's disdain for Unions and workers in general. One of the first things that the UCP did when they came into power was eliminate the Department of Labour. That does not translate to respect for
Notwithstandinging hammer on teachers and the ATA
working people.
To be blunt I have absolutely no faith in the current government doing the right thing in education. Those are only words and 'actions speak louder than words'. Look what the UCP have done to our health care system as they try to dismantle and privatize the system. I strongly suspect that that is part of the UCP's agenda in dealing with education as well.
Thank you, Gerry M. Footz
On Nov. 3, police received complaints of a suspicious vehicle northwest of Viking. Members located the vehicle in question which was towing another vehicle down the road. Police attempted a traffic stop; however, the vehicle did not stop. The vehicle was noted to turn into a driveway; at this point, the tow vehicle became dislodged. The vehicle continued up the driveway. Police spoke with the driver of the tow vehicle who stated he did not know why the driver did not stop. Police located the driver who admitted to not possessing a driver’s licence and no insurance or registration on the vehicle. The 44-year-old driver was charged under the Traffic Safety Act for no insurance or registration, driving while unauthorized and having an unauthorized licence plate on a motor vehicle. Flight from police charges are pending.
That afternoon, police received a complaint of a fraud. The complainant contacted the detachment advising he was on the phone with a subject claiming to be from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. After further conversation with the complainant police learned that a message popped up on his computer earlier that morning from “Microsoft Windows Security” with a phone number to call. The complainant called the phone number and there was no answer.
A call was immediately received from a blocked number on his phone. The caller claimed to be from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and was investigating an identity theft, and his SIN had been compromised. The complainant was advised to not hang up or tell anyone including his wife about the call.
The call was transferred several times to different people during the conversation. He was instructed to go to the bank and withdraw as much money as he could and take it to an ATM in Vegreville, Alberta. The complainant became sus-
picious of the call and attended the detachment where he was advised to disconnect the call as it was a scam. The complainant was advised to immediately notify his bank and to flag his accounts and contact Equifax Canada to have his SIN flagged also.
That evening, police responded to a complaint of a suspicious person northeast of Viking who was parked in a driveway claiming to be out of gas. Members located the vehicle; checks of the vehicle indicated it had been stolen out of Vermilion earlier that morning. Police learned the subject left the vehicle walking towards Viking. With the assistance of the Police Dog Service the subject was tracked and located hiding in a bush approximately 5-km from where the van was left. Arrested was 52-year-old Terry Dyck for possession of stolen property and failing to comply with court conditions. He also had several outstanding warrants for his arrest. He was held for a judicial interim hearing and was remanded into custody to appear in court at a later date.
On Nov. 4, police responded to a complaint of a suspicious vehicle parked on Range Road 130 with a subject sleeping inside. Members patrolled the area, and the vehicle was not located.
On Nov. 5, police received a complaint of a deceased deer on Highway 14. Members attended and located the deer. It did not appear the animal was involved in a collision and it was noted that
the legs were cut off and missing. Fish and Wildlife were contacted and will be conducting a further investigation into this matter.
In the early morning hours of Nov. 6, police received a complaint of a semi truck travelling on Highway 14 with no taillights. Police located the truck and at the time of the traffic stop the lights were operating. The driver was advised to have the lights inspected. The complainant was updated.
On Nov. 6, police assisted Children and Family Services with two home visits. On both visits the children were removed due to the living conditions at the residences. A follow up visit is planned by Children and Family Services to assess the residences.
On Nov. 8, police received a complaint of harassment. The complainant advised of posts on social media that were made. The posts were reviewed by the members, and it was determined there was nothing criminal in nature found.
On Nov. 9, police received a complaint of an erratic driver on Highway 14. The vehicle in question was not located.
By Marjorie Lawson
The Irma Fire Rescue hosted a very successful Firemen’s Ball on Saturday evening in the school gym.
Ray Guard was honoured for his 40 years of dedicated service to the Trochu and Irma Fire De-
partments. Ray was presented with a shadow box of badges and fire fighter’s regalia. Congratulations on your many years of service!
Our sympathy to Ray, Lorrie, Tyler and Shaun Guard on the passing of his father, Bruce Guard, on Nov. 3. His funeral was held on Nov. 9 in the Trochu Community Center.
Our community was saddened to hear of the passing of Pat Burton at the age of 79. A service to honour her life will be held Nov. 22 at 1 p.m. from the Irma School
hall. Our condolences to the Burton and Matthew families at this sad time.
The general meeting of the agricultural society will be held Monday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. at the Ag Hall by the arena. Everyone is welcome.
We send out birthday greetings this week to Gordie Lovig and Eunice Gulbraa.
The United Church Fall Turkey Supper is on Sunday, Nov. 23 at the school hall beginning at 5 p.m. Mild conditions will last until the weekend after our first taste of winter.
SEEKING SPONSORS
Anyoneinterestedinsponsoringgrade12 subjectawardwinners,citizenshipawards, orprovidingscholarships,pleasecontact: Brent Anderson at b.anderson@holdenra.ca Holden Rural Academy is looking for sponsorship and / or donations for our first-ever HRA Awards Night to recognize Academic, Athletic, and Citizenship Achievements within our academy.
IRMA NEWS
Ray Guard was the recipient of an award from Irma Fire Rescue at the Irma Firemen’s Ball Nov. 3 for his 40 years of service to the Irma and Trochu fire departments. From left are: presenters Darcy Tomlinson and Blair Fenton, recipient Ray Guard, and presenter Robert Larson.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM)
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP September & October Open by appointment only
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP For Sale: Common Seed Oats, Pony Oats and Barley
Held @ 7 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2nd @ the Holden Complex COFFEE & DONUTS WILL BE PROVIDED
Serving all the farms, ranches, acreages and towns in Beaver County Bruce, Holden, Kinsella Ryley, Tofield, Viking
Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB
Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB November
Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB
The Beaver County Chronicle
A Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County
Wednesday, December 4, 2024, Volume 17, Issue 49
Wednesday, November , 2023, Volume 16, Issue 46
WednesdayFebruary162022Volume15Issue7
Wednesday, November 12, 2025, Volume 18, Issue 45
New and returning Battle River School Division Trustees sworn in
County agress to release legal opinion on BESC shared services agreement with stakeholders
Patricia Harcourt
After discussion, Beaver County Council has agreed to release the redacted legal opinion of Brownlee LLP dated Aug. 12, 2025 regarding the Beaver Emergency Services Commission (BESC) shared service agreement. Also released would be the required inter-municipal collaboration framework.
The documents would be released to the Beaver Region urban municipalities and to BESC itself. Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for Beaver County Kayleena Spiess gave a report to county council at their first post-election regular meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 5.
She said administration sought a legal opinion after questions from county councillors arose concerning BESC,’s shared services agreement with the county, and amendments made to the Municipal Government Act
(MGA) concerning inter-municipal collaboration frameworks.
On Aug. 20 of this year, the legal opinion was reviewed in closed session at the Governance and Priorities Committee (GPC).
“The legal opinion is protected from disclosure under the Access to Information Act, but it is to the Beaver Region’s advantage to review it when amending its inter-municipal collaboration framework,” stated Spiess.
The Beaver Region is composed of the four urban municipalities of Tofield and Viking, and Holden and Ryley, plus Beaver County.
After its review, the GPC passed a motion recommending that council authorize administration to share the legal opinion with the Beaver Region urban municipalities and the Commission (less a section about governance risks).
A request was made Oct. 8 that administration seek clarification on the release of the legal opinion.
“The lawyer’s response cannot be shared in open session due to its privileged nature,” said Spiess, “but has been provided to council confidentially under separate cover.”
The motion to accept the recommendation for the redacted legal opinion to be presented to members of the Beaver Region and BESC was made by Deputy Reeve Lionel Williams.
The motion was passed with a vote of 4-1 with Councillor Dale Pederson (Division 5) opposed. Pederson gave no reason for his stance prior to the vote.
The legal opinion will be shared through CAO Spiess to the towns of Tofield and Viking, the villages of Holden and Ryley and BESC. These municipalities are all members of the Beaver Emergency Services Commission.
Hubert & Margaret Graham
PHOTO SUPPLIED
Battle River School Division's new Board of Trustees were sworn in at their organizational meeting on Monday, Nov. 3. From left: Ward 1, City of Camrose and Board Chair Patrick McFeely, Ward 1, City of Camrose new
member Valerie Sims, Ward 2, Beaver County returning member Lyle Albrecht, Ward 3, Camrose County and Vice Chair Karen Belich, Ward 4, Flagstaff County new member Deanna Maertz.
IMPORTANTDATES
December17
9:30AM-12:00PM-GovernanceandPrioritiesCommittee Meeting
1:00PM-4:00PM-RegularCouncilMeeting
STOP DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Novemberis FamilyViolence PreventionMonth
Everyonedeservesto feelsafe,respected, andloved.
Nooneshouldhaveto liveinfear.
GETHELP24/7
Online:alberta.ca/safetychat
CallorText:310-1818
KeepinTouch
NotonFacebook?There’sother waystokeepintouch.
NOTICETOPROPERTYOWNERS
PREPARATIONOFTHE2025ANNUALASSESSMENTFOR 2026TAXATION
Pleasenote:Duetotheongoingpostalstrike,BeaverCountyis providingthisnoticeonlineandthroughalternatechannels. TheAssessmentDepartmentwillbeginconductingproperty inspectionsfor: Developmentpermitsissuedin2025,and Developmentsfrompreviousyearsthatwerenotyetcompleted. Theinspectorwillbevisitingpropertiestoverifyandcollectdataon neworexistingdevelopments. Thisworkhelpsensurefairandequitablepropertyassessments throughoutBeaverCounty. Ifyouhavequestionsorconcerns,pleasecontacttheAssessment Departmentat825-385-0055.
TheClaystoneWaste Facebookpageiswhereyou willfindserviceupdates,grant programinfo,jobpostings, andmore!
ScantheQRcodetofindus, likeus,andgiveusafollow!
Ifyouneedmoreinformationon ourwastemanagementservices, pleasecontactus!
Phone:780.663.2038
TollFree:1.855.221.2038
Email:info@claystonewaste.com
Billing:ar@claystonewaste.com Website:claystonewaste.com
OPENTENDER
BeaverCountyiscurrentlyacceptingsubmissionsforthe following: TEN2025-16INFR-NEWASHPALT DISTRIBUTORTRUCK Closes:December2,2025@10a.m.Local time
Pleasefindcompleteinformationforall requestsonourwebsite>Business> RFPs,Tenders,Leases&Sales
2025COUNTYCONSTRUCTIONSCHEDULE
CulvertMaintenance April1 Nov1
Patchingoilroads May1 Sep29
Hard-SurfaceLocations
Constructedinthefollowingphases: Phase1(P1): Cement, Phase2(P2): ChipSeal1stLift, Phase3(P3): ChipSeal 2ndlift, Phase4(P4): FinalsweepofChips.
KingswayEstates-501 May12 May16 Complete
RgeRd202betweenTwp502&504 May19 May30 Complete BeaverCreekEstatesNorth-50514RgeRd202 Jun2 Jun4 Complete
RgeRd200fromHwy630tocampground entrance&HoopersDr Jun5 Jun9 Complete
WhisperingHillsEstates-51308RgeRd195 Jun10 Jun14 Complete
RgeRd200fromHwy630toBlackfootGrazing ReserveEntrance Jun16 Jun24 Complete Twp492approx.1.72kmseastofRgeRd170Jun26 Jun27 Complete Twp490betweenHwy857&RgeRd142Jul2 Jul25 Complete
Twp490betweenHwy870&RgeRd120Jul28 Aug22 Complete TwpRd512fromRgeRd191toHWY834Aug25 Sep3 Complete ShoulderPulls
RgeRd200fromHWY14toTWPRD500 Sept9 Sept30 TwpRd492fromHWY834toRgeRd192 Oct1 Oct9
RgeRd173from430meterssouthofTwpRd 500andTwpRd492 Oct10 Oct24
TwpRd484fromHWY855toRgeRd164 TBDTBD
Gravelling Mar13 Dec22
HamletRoadRehabilitation(ExactDatesTBD)
Bruce -MainStfromrailroadtracksto4Ave th OctOct
Kinsella -MainStfromHWY14to3Ave rd OctOct
Kinsella -2AvefromMainSttoKingSt nd OctOct Completed InProgress Scheduled Delayed
WHENCONSTRUCTIONISCOMPLETE
Whenall four phasesofupgradesare complete,roadswillbesmootherand longerlastingforallusers.Tohelpkeepthemintopcondition,pleasefollow theseguidelines: Roadbansremaininplaceforaboutoneyear. Noloadingorunloadingontheroadway.
Avoiddrivingheavyortrackedequipmentontheroad—usealternate routesorhaulroads.
ReportdamageorunsafeconditionstotheBeaverCountyServiceCentre.
BeaverCountyiscommittedtoprovidinga safe, injury-freeenvironment foremployees,contractors,visitors,andthepublic.Roadconstructioncan createhazardssuchasheavymachinery,dust,mud,gravel,asphalt coatings,androckchips.Weapologizeforanyinconvenience—roadswith themosttrafficrequirethemostmaintenance. Thankyouforyour patienceandunderstandingduringconstruction.
SECONDLAYEROFCHIPSEALINCOMING
Constructioncrewshavebeenworkingtoupgradethefollowingroad: TWPRD512fromRGERD191toSECHWY834
Thislocationwillsoonbegintoreceivethesecondlayerofchipsealand theremaybedelaysasworkcrews'directtraffictoworksafely.Therewill bemanylooserocksafterthesecondchipseallayerisappliedandspeed limitswillcontinuetobereducedonthisroaduntilthefinalsweepis complete.
WHATARESHOULDERPULLS?
Thisworkreclaimsgravelfromtheroadedges,restorestheroadshapeforproper drainage,andimprovesoveralldrivingconditions.Duringthisprocess,residents maynoticetemporaryroughsurfacesandroadequipment.Weaskdriversto slowdown,watchforsigns,andgivecrewsspacetoworksafely.Formore information,visittheRoadMaintenanceFAQontheBeaverCountywebsite.
QUESTIONSORCONCERNSABOUTROADS?
PleasecalltheBeaverCountyServiceCentreat780-663-3730.
Saturday,November15,
2025AtTheHolden Complex
Steak$32
SteakandShrimp$37
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Children’smeal(BurgersandHotDogsonly) 12+$10,6-11$5,5andunderfree Supper5-7.30pm LiveAuction7.30pm SilentAuction5-LiveAuctionEnding FreePublicSkating5-8pm
ForFurtherInformation Pleasetext/callLucy780-781-6014
Getnews,meetinghighlights,theroadconstruction schedule,theChronicle,andmore-directtoyourinbox!
Website InformationonCountyprogramsandservicescanbe foundonourwebsite,alongwiththelatestnews.
Reeve opposes dog leash rules in animal control bylaw vote
Patricia Harcourt
Newly elected Reeve
Gene Hrabec refused to support the county’s revised Animal Control Bylaw #25-1180 at Beaver County Council’s Nov. 5 meeting.
Hrabec said the rules for dogs in the proposed bylaw were “an overreach” in rural areas of the county, such as in his Division 3.
Administration had asked that the bylaw be given all three readings to put it into law. First and second reading each passed 4-1 with the single opposing vote being that of Hrabec.
However, to allow a third (and final) reading to take place at the same council meeting, a unanimous vote in favour was necessary. Hrabec also voted against this motion so the bylaw will be carried over to another coun-
cil meeting for final reading.
Deborah Juch, General Manager of Community and Protective Services, stated the bylaw is being updated to accommodate a change in the provision requiring the leashing of dogs in the county.
The existing bylaw states that the animal’s owner shall “ensure the dog is on a leash and in control at all times when off property.”
Juch said that legal counsel advised that to ensure the intended effect, the provision should state: “The owner of a dog shall… ensure the dog is on a leash and under the control of a competent person at all times when off the owner’s property.”
Juch felt this change was not a controversial one so the reworded bylaw could have all three readings done at one sitting of council. She said
the changes were “for clarification and enforcement purposes,” only, and the entire bylaw had been passed earlier on Jan. 16, 2023.
It was determined no changes to the bylaw were needed after a review by the Governance and Priorities Committee in the spring of this year.
However, “recently discussions with legal counsel determined that one provision of the bylaw was potentially unenforceable simply due to the grammar as it was written,” said Juch.
Referring to the ‘dog on a leash issue,’ clarification was needed “to make it enforceable.”
But Hrabec opposed the new wording when it came to controlling dogs, especially in rural areas of the county.
Hrabec said that this “question of the responsibility of dog owners,” was
Non-residential tax incentive changed to align with MGA
Patricia Harcourt
Beaver County Council gave second and third reading to the county’s new Non-Residential Tax Incentive Bylaw #25-1178.
The new council finalized the bylaw which had been given first reading before municipal elections took place in October.
A Business Incentive Grant Policy had been passed in 2017, which provided a grant for new or expanded commercial or industrial development over a three -year period. The grant was akin to receiving a reduction in taxes of 75 per cent the first year, 50 per cent the second year and 25 per cent the third year.
However, changes to the provincial Municipal Government Act (MGA) after this required that such tax incentives such as deferrals or exemptions must be achieved through bylaw instead of policy.
Margaret Jones, manager of Legislative Services, stated: “The proposed bylaw includes all the policy guidelines,” with two amendments included.
One amendment was putting in a provision for
an application fee to be included in the county’s Fees, Rates and Charges Bylaw.
“At this time, no fee is specified in the Bylaw; however, the provision for it can still remain in the Non-Residential Tax Incentive Bylaw in the event a future council decides otherwise.”
Plus, “The proposed Bylaw indicates that the development or revitalization will be ineligible for the tax exemption if it has already commenced,” said Jones.
“This will encourage the developer to obtain all necessary permits, complete the work in a timely manner, and will also mitigate a risk to the developer that the Bylaw is revoked before the development can be completed,”
Jones also stated that the county assessor has been processing applications under the policy, an authority carried over into the new bylaw. Council is to hear any appeals to decisions made by the assessor, which is the chief administrative officer (CAO) or a delegate.
But if council decided it
directed mainly at the subdivisions and hamlets in the county.
But he saw it as “a bit of an over reach for the rural areas.”
Juch explained that the bylaw “is complaint driven,” and county officers would react differently if they encountered a wellcontrolled dog being walked off-leash, as opposed to a dog that is running onto other people’s property and isn’t under control.
A motion by Councillor Kevin Smook (Division 1) for first reading of the revised bylaw was then passed.
In favour of the bylaw, Smook said the bylaw “looks like a one size fits all,” adding: “People should be able to control their dogs,” and he didn’t want dogs on his property without his permission being given.
Hrabec countered that the bylaw “over steps in the rural,” and he did not support it.
wants to make decisions on applications instead of the CAO or delegate, an amendment to the bylaw would be necessary.
First reading took place on Sept. 17 prior to the October municipal election.
“Council passed first reading of the bylaw but requested that administration review the rate of the tax reduction incentive,” said Jones. “Corporate Services researched the tax incentives provided by the county’s rural and urban neighbours.” Jones attached the results of those comparisons for council to peruse.
“The county will update its public communication regarding the tax incentive,” Jones said.
Councillor Kevin Smook (Division 1) made a motion for second reading of the tax incentive bylaw for non-residential, and Deputy Reeve Lionel Williams (Division 2) made a motion for third reading. Both motions were passed by council.
Also passed was a motion by Councillor Dale Pederson (Division 5) to rescind Policy #ADM-028 Business Incentive Grant.
Deputy Reeve Lionel Williams said he didn’t “see anything specific here that is not suited to rural (areas).”
Hrabec replied that he did not see any issues in his rural area, suggesting there be a separate bylaw specifically for the hamlets and subdivisions only that leaves out the rural areas.
Hrabec also had a concern regarding the community peace officers and their discretion mentioned earlier by Juch in deciding what behaviour to enforce regarding dogs.
But Williams said the language in the bylaw says enforcement is “in the opinion of the peace officer.”
He added: “They need to have leeway to make decisions on their own like that,” referring to the CPO’s exercising discretion.
“So I am for it,” said Williams.
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Kayleena
Spiess also defended the bylaw, reminding council of a recent incident “in the bush,” adding: “Incidents happen all over the county and bylaws should be for the entire county.”
Smook added that a bylaw just aimed at subdivisions would not work as these subdivisions are surrounded by farmlands that must also have controls in place if an animal is running at large.
Division 4 Councillor Shawn O’Shea added his voice of support for the bylaw before Councillor Dale Pederson (Division 5) made a motion for second reading of the bylaw. The motion passed 4-1 with Hrabec opposed.
A motion by Williams to allow for third reading failed 4-1 (Hrabec once again opposed) as it must be unanimous to pass. The county will have to vote on a third and final reading as a stand alone motion at a future meeting. At this vote, unanimity will not be required.
COUNTRY SUPPER
Vialta Lodge Welcomes New Residents, Celebrates Milestones, and Prepares for a “Vintage Christmas”
Marion R. Cottrell
Last month this reporter missed the deadline to include special congratulations to Ed and Arlene Majeski, as they celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on Oct. 1. Sixty-five years (plus one more month now!) of marriage is an achievement worth remarking on! Wishing
you many more years of love, joy, and good health together Ed and Arlene. Birthday greetings in November are extended to Clifford Stretch on Nov. 14, Eunice Gulbraa on Nov. 15, and Lawrence Hurum on the 24th.
Birthday blessings to each of you.
Vialta has some new residents joining us: Ben Modin, Paul and Marie
Therriault, and Ron Erickson. Welcome to your new home. May you each feel comfortable and settled in a short time.
We are sorry to report that Curtis Wilkie has had to move on to another level of care. Best wishes go with you, Curtis.
November entertainment begins on the 5th with Mich and Irene Kushnerik.
On Thursday, Nov. 13, “Personal Touch Clothing” will be setting up in the Atrium, so come prepared to shop.
Bob Williams will be in attendance on Tuesday, Nov. 18.
A shopping trip is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 20, so if you are interested, remember to sign up.
The week of Nov. 24 is
going to be the beginning of a flurry of activity as residents and Activity Coordinator, Lindsay Sullivan, transform Vialta Lodge into a celebration of “Vintage Christmas.”
This may be the spark that fans many memories from years gone by as preparations for the Christmas season begins.
Thoughts of
November: “The wind that makes music in November corn is in a hurry. The stalks hum, the loose husks whisk skyward in half-playing swirls, and the wind hurries on... A tree tries to argue, bare limbs waving, but there is no detaining the wind.” ~Aldo Leopold Happy November and stay safe!
Viking Royal Purple Gears Up for Festival of Trees, Community Giving, and Holiday Celebrations
Dawn Hodgins
Our members met for our November meeting, with lots of plans to make and lots of reports from events well done. October was busy for some of our members. Chris was very busy planning the Zombie Walk at the Carena walking track. She brought a casket, zombie, scary masks and scary memorabilia to dress up the track. We did not have a very big group participating – but it was indeed fun for those who gathered. Over 139 laps were walked or ran by the group. Jax Hodgins was the most laps with 28 and most laps were at high speed and on the run! Both Joan and Dawn walked as witches, but Dawn walked the most laps at 20. In all Chris figures we all travelled about 16 miles. Check out the track. It is great –no snow, no ice! Six Zombie certificates for lunch at the Carena Snack Bar were presented to the six smallest walkers. Way to go kids! It is hoped that the next walk will bring out more ghosts, goblins, witches, princesses, firefighters and zombies!
Jeanne, Ronna, Joan and Doreen prepared for and then braved the cold wind and handed out about 100 bags of treats at the Halloween on Main event. So nice to
see the smiles of the little ones as they receive the bag of goodies. We were outside the downtown Hotel and the staff brought out a huge bowl of their candy for our gals to hand out to the kids. It was wonderful of them to do this. Thanks to the hotel staff.
School awards night has been canceled. Jamie will be meeting with the winner of our award for the best volunteer – Luke Brooke, and will present his award cheque soon.
The Festival of Trees is well underway. Dawn has been contacting last year’s tree decorators and all but one of them is returning. She has approached more groups and is delighted to have Carena groups - Minor Hockey and Viking Skating Club - joining this year. Minor ball is bringing a tree. Both banks are on board –ATB and Vision Credit Union. Chris is decorating a purple tree for Home Hardware. Nice to have other businesses from town joining in the beauty of Christmas and lights in the lobby. Thanks to all. Everyone needs to take a walk through the tree displays – after November 30, when the trees are all lit up. Once again we will be collecting food items in boxes under every tree and this will go to the Food Bank. New this year – a sock tree (thanks
to Mission4Many for donating this tree) and a mitten tree (thanks to FCSS for donating this tree). The new socks and mitts will be donated to the FCSS for their Christmas Hamper project. So, when you walk through the trees, pick a tree to put your food item under and hang some socks or mitts on one of the sock or mitt trees. Two great causes in our town that will be assisted by everyone in
this community!
At our meeting we decided to hold our Christmas party at the Carena and be among the lights of all the super wonderful trees and displays. The Town staff is awesome and will be catering our Christmas meal!
We will be having a lemon tart and pie table at the Christmas Market on Dec. 4. Please stop by and purchase a tart or pie. We do lots in this
community, but not many are fundraisers –so it would be nice to get community support.
Dawn, Emily and Creeann toured to Vegreville to be part of Vegreville Royal Purple’s 75th anniversary. It was a great event. -paying tribute to past and present members, who have volunteered many thousands of hours in their community. They had a very long list of local groups that had been
presented funds over the years. Many certificates and plaques were presented. Congratulations Vegreville!
Viking Royal Purple is alive and busy in this community. Check out pictures and write ups on our Facebook page –Vikingroyalpurpleassoci ation. It is interesting!
$20/wk
CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
COMING EVENTS
Lougheed Agricultural Society Annual General Meeting
Monday, November 24
Lougheed Community Hall
Doors open 5:30pm. Supper 6pm. AGM at 7pm.
Please come and see what we as a society are planning and if you are interested in being a part of it, call or text 780-385-0752 to RSVP. 45/46c ————————————————
Flagstaff Scottish Club Annual General Meeting will be Sunday, November 23, 2025, 2pm at the Clubhouse in Sedgewick. 4402 47Ave. All interested folks are encouraged to attend. Dinner to follow. Please call Ian Malcolm for more information and to RSVP for dinner at 780-390-0096. 43/44c
Killam Baptist Church
Christmas Supper and Program, Sunday, December 7th at the Killam Community Hall. Doors open at 5pm, Supper at 5:30pm. Special guests "The Farmer and Adele" will bring a program of Western Gospel music. All ages welcome. For tickets, please call the church 780-385-3607 45/47c
COMING EVENTS
GALAHAD LIONS CLUB
Turkey BINGO
Monday Dec 1st
Galahad Agriplex
7:00 PM
15 Go-Go Bingos, 1 Bonanza, 1 Door Prize. Master Card $5.00 45/47c
Heisler Elks Turkey Bingo
Monday, Nov. 17
At Heisler Community Culture Centre
Doors open 6:30. Bingo at 7:30. 15 Games for $5
Door prize on advance tickets Bonanza to follow ————————————————
Forestburg Concert Series Presents Twilight Time - A Tribute to the Platters and Doo Wop
Saturday November 15 @ 7:30 Forestburg Community Centre Concert Sponsor: Coutts Home Hardware Ltd. Tickets at Door : $35.00 18 and Under : Free Info Phone: 780-582-3668 or 780-582-2181
FOR SALE
INTEGRITY POST FRAME
BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678
FOR SALE
Steel Seacan Storage 10ft x 40ft, 3 Double Doors White. Year 2024. No Rust nor Damage. Original Owner. Seacan condition will compliment all Yardsites Located: Lamont / Bruderheim $9,800. Ph: 780 940 2984 39/51p
WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average
$50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzymes injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 250. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. albertasprucetrees.com.
Saskatoons, frozen, 4 litre bags, $25.00. Call or text 780-893-5490. Delivery possible. TM44-47P
FOR RENT
Small Commercial Room
For Rent
Perfect for hair, esthetics, lash, office etc. Own parking, separate back entrance. Bathroom for you and clients, water access in room. Minimum one year. 4912 52 Ave TOFIELD, AB Message if interested. Please text 780-672-4033 TM45-46P
MEMORIAL
In Memory of Dyan Payne
Nov. 15th is 20 years since the day we lost you, and for a time it felt as though our lives had ended, too. We hide our tears when we say your name, But the pain in our hearts is still the same. What we shared will never die, It lives within our hearts - no lie; Although we smile and seem carefree, There's no one who misses you more than we.
Forever missed, Evelyn and Megan
REAL ESTATE
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½ Section Pastureland NE 35 & NW 36-41-10-W4 located south of Hardisty in the Battle River valley at RR 101 & TWP RD 420.
Fenced, cross-fenced, mix of seeded and tame grass with large dug-out, pumping system, full power on site with gravel revenue. Call Mike Golka REMAX River City 780-914-9889
MLS#’s E4447511 & E4447499 tfnc
SERVICES
Drywall
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!
Murray Cholowsky Flagstaff Taping & Texturing Call or text at 780-385-1251
Main Street 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.
PRICING
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers
16,000 readers
SERVICES
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. 403-543-0927; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
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ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS
with Caribou Publishing (owner of your local paper) From Business Cards to Books and everything in between! production.cp@gmail.com
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Be prepared for winter power outages.
GENERAC Generators
It’s not just a Generator, it’s a Power Move.
Receive a free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase - valued at $535 Call 587-803-3600 to schedule your free quote!
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SERVICES
Leave the tanks at home. Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators Convert the air around you into medical grade oxygen. At just under 3 lbs, Inogen lightweight and compact portable oxygen concentrators easily deliver your prescription oxygen on-the-go Call Us Now. 1-833-997-1719
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SERVICES
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
WANTED
FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2025 AUCTION PROGRAM: Firearms, Ammunition, Accessories, or Militaria. Collections, Estates or single items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Contact us: 1-800-694-2609, Email: sales@switzersauction.com or Visit us @ www.switzersauction.com for Auction Dates & Details. ————————————————
WANTED: Looking for 1970-1971 Barracudas and 1969-1970 Chargers, in any condition. Running or not. TOP PRICE PAID for 6-pack or Hemi car. Call 306-221-5908.
Crossword
Donations for our FILL THE TREE Campaign! The Community Press, Tofield Mercury, Lamont Leader, and Weekly Review are once again raising funds for our Food Banks at Christmastime! We don’t keep a dime, help support a great cause!
FOR ALL GOLD & SILVER COINS, JEWELRY, BARS, INGOTS, NUGGETS, GOLD Dust, Dental Gold, Bullion, Sterling Silverware, plus anything made of gold or silver!
Covering ALL OF ALBERTA, and I can come to you! I also purchase coin collections!
Irma Aces beat Oyen Eagles
Ethan Neufeld Student Reporter
The Irma Aces played against the Oyen Eagles at home on Friday, Nov. 7, winning in a close but low scoring game. The game kicked off
with a slow start, having no goals or penalties until Mike Shirley put the Aces up 1-0, with assists by Zack MacKay and Lincoln Glover with about 12 minutes left in the first.
Other than one penalty
from each side, the first period ended with the same score, 1-0.
The second period had a similar outcome, with just one penalty for each team, except unlike the first period, there were no goals for either side.
The third period had more action than the first two, with the Eagles tying the game up.
The Eagles tied the game with just four minutes left, forcing the Aces to act fast to secure
Continued on Page 12
Marie Helen Westmancoat (Hutchinson)
It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Marie Helen Westmancoat (Hutchinson) aged 90 on November 3, 2025 in Viking, Alberta with family by her side. She was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother known for lending a helping hand anyway she could.
Marie is survived by her three sons; Barry (Tamme), Mark, Philip (Tanya); grandchildren Natasha and Myles and her adopted daughter Tanya; grandchildren Chloe and Kylaine. Her brother Leonard (Ursula) and sister-in-law Olive. She is predeceased by her husband Brian, her parents; Leonard and Jean and her brothers Lester and Bill.
Born in the Ryley area, Marie attended Bathgate school where her Aunt Ethel Pepper was the teacher. She often helped her in the winter to keep the fires going. After finishing at Ryley school, she moved to Calgary to stay with her Aunt Mary Birch. Initially she worked at the Bank of Montreal while attending secretarial school. She then went on to work at Pitney Bowes, an office equipment company.
Marie married Brian in 1959 and moved back to the family farm in 1962. There she kept busy with
the egg business, a large garden and working at Stats Canada. An avid Square dancer and founding member of the Swinging Beavers, both her and Brian danced at numerous clubs over the years, winning many badges.
Marie retired to Tofield, spending her time traveling and being an active member of both the Ryley Sunshine Club and the Tofield Golden Club where she played cards and even won gold at the Alberta Senior Games.
Marie touched the
lives of many and will be dearly missed by family, friends and the community.
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of her life is to be
planned in the spring. Weber Funeral Home office@weberfuneral home.ca weberfuneralhome.ca Tofield 780-662-3959 Camrose 780-672-3131
HELP WANTED
Employment Opportunity
Town of Viking Viking Carena Operator
Working under the direction of the Lead Operator, the Arena Operator is responsible for the daily operation of the Carena while on duty. This position reports to the lead operator.
Duties and Responsibilities
• High degree of personal initiative and ability to work on their own, position is casual/part time.
• Able to work a day, evening, or weekend shift.
• Flood the ice with the Zamboni.
• Perform janitorial duties including operating floor scrubber, cleaning showers, bathrooms, dressing rooms, plant room, lobby, spectator’s bleachers, walking track, outside parking lot areas.
• Ensure cleanliness of rental spaces (Meeting rooms etc.) prior to and following rental period.
• Ice Maintenance as directed by Lead Operator.
• Always wear proper P.P.E. and follow safety protocol.
• Ensure safety and security of the facility by following all safe work procedures and report all incidents to immediate supervisor as well as completing required report forms as needed.
• Assist with special events – set up and cleanup of tables/chairs and other related equipment for facility user group activities.
• Provide excellent customer service to all users of the Viking Carena Complex while ensuring they follow the rules and regulations of the facility.
• Respond to emergencies, including evacuation alarms, medical emergencies and other safety issues.
• Skate sharpening.
• Ensuring all required paperwork (daily timesheets etc.) are completed properly.
• Help the kitchen staff during busy times – time permitting if other duties are completed.
• Other duties as assigned by the lead operator.
Qualifications
• First Aid, WHMIS, can train if needed.
• Class 5 Drivers license
• Willing to acquire Level 1 and 2 Ice Making Certificates
• Computer literacy.
Interested candidates should submit their resumes via email to info.account@viking.ca.
The position will remain open until suitable candidates are found.
We thank all applicants for their interest;
We thank all applicants for their
Viking School holds Remembrance Day Service to honour veterans
RCMP and the Viking Legion also formed a Colour Party for the ceremony. Legion Poster, Poetry and Essay Awards were presented to students and wreaths were laid in honour of the war dead.
Continued from Page 11
themselves the win.
Fortunately, not even
20 seconds later, MacKay scored the final goal, ensuring the Aces win the game, assisted by Shirley and Carter Lawson.
Irma Aces goalie,
Austin Prior, stopped 30 of the 31 shots against him, earning himself a very well-deserved .968 save percentage.
Oyen’s goalie saved 18
Minor Hockey Report: Irma U11 Grady Parsons gets 9 goals in a game
Westman and Lily Boe.
These are some of the results from Minor Hockey League games held recently. (Please note that scores and scoring is taken from the websites, and some game scores and scoring is dependent on proper league entries.)
If any players or teams are missing from the report please notify me at kamcjm@gmail.com with the player name, team and website.
Irma U15 Female Aces (1-1-2) dropped a 3-1 game at Lloydminster on Sunday. The scoresheet was not entered at deadline Monday morning.
Irma U18 Female Aces (4-0-0) won a 4-2 game on Sunday at Dewberry with Azelynn Newton recording a 3-point game (1g 2a). Emory Holt connected twice for Irma, and Keysha McMann also scored. Assists went to: Halle Cadman, ella Gulbraa, Jalynn
Irma U11 Aces boys team (3-4-0) won a 14-9 game at home against Edgerton/Chauvin on Saturday led by Grady Parsons scoring nine times.
Other scorers were: Logan Newton (2g 1a), Seth Olsen (1g 2a), Roan Franklin (3a), Bentley Lawson (1g 1a), Brittyn Pulyk (1g), and Emmett Newton (1a).
Lucas Knowler got the win between the pipes. On Sunday at Vermilion, Aces beat the home team 10-8. Grady Parsons and Bentley Lawson both had 5point games (4g 1a). Other scorers were: Seth Olsen (1g 1a), Roan Franklin (1g 1a), Lynden Oracheski (2a), Logan Newton (1a), and Brittyn Pulyk (1a). Lucas Knowler got the win between the pipes.
Viking U11 Gas Kings (4-4-0) dropped an 8-5 game on Saturday at the Carena, then defeated Barrhead 9-7 at Viking on Sunday.
Scoring over the weekend were: Bo Hafso (4g), Bentley Gould-Jacobsen (1g), Logan Page (1a), Hayes Hafso (1a).
Irma U13 Aces (5-2-0) travelled to Cold Lake on Saturday and skated away with an 8-2 road win.
Scoring for Irma were: Henry MacKay (2g 1a), Jeremiah Beer (2g), Macoy Tomlinson (1g 1a), Logan Leskow (1g 1a), Anson Banks (1g), and Abel Whitten (1g). Jace Christensen got the win in goal.
Viking U13 Gas Kings (7-0-0) shutout St. Paul on the road on Saturday 11-0. Both Grayson Leblanc (3g 3a) and Gage Olson (3g 1a) had hat tricks. Other scorers were: Stetson Shepley (2g 1a), Conley Docksteader (1g 2a), Liam Doucette (1g 2a), Easton Morken (2a), Emily Amundson (1g), and Taylor Docksteader (1a). Getting the shutout was Taylen Place.
of the Aces’ 20 shots, giving him a .900 save percentage. The Aces’ next game is Friday, Nov. 14, on the road against the Del-
Viking School students and staff held their Remembrance Day Services on Friday, Nov. 7 to honour veterans and those who died serving their country. Viking
Kerry Anderson
Irma Aces