Young entrepreneur opens bookstore in Ryley
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Tofield School graduate and entrepreneur Adri Freeman, 16, of Ryley, has opened a bookstore on main street Ryley, with her grand opening scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 22.
Freeman has always had a love for books and coupled with the fact that she much more enjoys working for herself than for someone else, she decided to start her own business.
“After I finished working at the food truck, I started at Boston Pizza in July,
and while I liked my employers, they're amazing, I didn't like some of the rules. I kept thinking, I would do this differently if I had my own business and that’s when it clicked,” Freeman said.
Freeman has classics, books on teenage mental health, mystery and suspense, fantasy, special and collectors editions, romance, seasonal, and children’s books.
“Yes, Ryley has a library, but some people like to own books. The library also doesn't always have the most popular books, or special editions,”
Freeman said.
Freeman said that most of what is on her shelves are overstock books or second-hand, some even from her own collection.
“Some books have a black Sharpie mark on them from when the bigger companies marked them overstock before shipping them off to other providers who will sell them for less. Some of the second-hand books show a little bit of wear and tear, but they are very much lightly used,” she said.
Freeman hopes to add to the shelves every other week or so, depending on
how sales are going, and said that she can special order books that customers request.
“They would need to know that it would take longer to get in, but I'm going to have a sign-up sheet where they can list what they’re looking for, and I’ll try to find it for them. I'm trying not to order from Amazon or Indigo because I don't want to support billionaire companies.
“I very much want to support indie authors, young, and lesser-known authors because they need somewhere to Continued on Page 4
KARI JANZEN PHOTO Adri Freeman, 16, has opened her own bookstore in Ryley.
Pull Out Out
Schedule of Events Winterfest Tofield 2025
Welcome and embrace the winter season by joining the Town of Tofield and partners for Winterfest 2025! Saturday, November 29th
• RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL DECORATING CONTEST – Begins earlier in the month.
• BREAKFAST WITH SANTA –8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
–Tofield Legion
• WESTERN MAKERS MARKET –10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
–Tofield Community Hall
• FESTIVAL OF TREES,Kids Crafts, & Family Skating
– 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.–Tofield Arena
(family skate portion from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.)
• STUFF THE BUS – 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
–IGA Parking lot
• CHILI LUNCH – 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
–Tofield Golden Club
• MAIN STREET PARADE – 5:30 p.m. –Main Street
• LIGHTING OF THE TREE – Immediately following Parade – Town Administration Office
• FAMILY DANCE – Immediately following the Tree Lighting –Tofield Community Hall
• TOFIELD SATELLITES HOCKEY GAME – 8:00 p.m.
–Tofield Arena
• FIREWORKS – Approximately 8:30 p.m. –Ball Diamond #4 –Sports Grounds
PLEASE NOTE, EVENT TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO A SLIGHT CHANGE - EVENT DEPENDENT.
Beaverhill Bird Observatory recognized with philanthropy award
Submitted
At the National Philanthropy Day Celebration luncheon held at the Edmonton Con-
ference Centre on Friday, Nov. 14, the Edmonton Community Foundation and the Association of Fundraising Profes-
sionals recognized the Beaverhill Bird Observatory (BBO) Board of Directors in front of the other nominees and hundreds of attendees.
BBO Chair Geoff Holroyd and Board member Helen Trefry represented the Board at the event and were humbled to be among the many recognized for some outstanding contributions to enhance the lives of others.
The plaque will be mounted at the education and research centre in the spring.
The nomination by the Edmonton Community Foundation reads, “The Board of Directors at the BBO are passionate about birds, the natural environment, and public education.
“Not only are they
2025 COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS HAMPER PROGRAM
The Community Christmas Hamper program assists families in Tofield, Ryley and Beaver County (west) who may be struggling this Christmas.
1. Hamper Requests
To request a Christmas Hamper, visit the FCSS Office in Tofield (5407-50 St.) (upstairs) or Call: 780-662-7067. Presentation of photo ID and proof of physical address (eg. utility bill) will be requested to confirm that you are within our service area.
Referrals are confidential. Hamper request deadline is Friday, Dec. 12th.
2. Angel Tree
Angel trees are set at both Tofield and Ryley Post Office locations.
1. Pick an angel from the tree.A child’s age and their interests will help you select a gift.
2. Purchase a gift(s) for that child - suggested spending limit of $60.
3.Attach the angel to the unwrapped gift and return it to the collection box at the Angel Tree. Angel gifts must be returned to the tree by Wed., Dec. 17th.
3. Stuff the Bus
Saturday, November 29th from 10 am – 6 pmat Tofield IGA. Support the program by purchasing $10 or $15 paper ornaments that represent a food hamper. IGA supports the Christmas Hamper Program as well!
enthusiastically handson with the work of the BBO, but the Board is also wholly committed to ensuring the organization’s financial sustainability.
“ECF is proud to recognize the BBO Board for their role in promoting the conservation of our natural heritage by championing their endowment programs.
“The BBO family of endowments means that there will always be reliable funding so that the important research, education and community activities they undertake each year can continue to flourish and fly.”
The National Philanthropy Day luncheon is
held every year to provide the opportunity for local charities to share stories about how local people, groups, and organizations make a difference through charitable giving. These individuals and groups make our communities a better place for others
through their volunteerism and generosity. Whether it is time or money, they often comment that they feel they should give back more to make life better for others, whether they be humans or other beings that share this planet.
Tofield 4-H Beef & Multi Club Turkey Bingo
Friday, December 5th, 2025
Tofield Community Hall
Doors open at 6:30 pm Bingo start at 7:00 pm
Raffle tickets & Concession items for purchase $10 admission (entire event CASH ONLY) ALL AGES welcome! Kids game.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
The Beaverhill Bird Observatory Board of Directors was recognized at the National Philanthropy Day Celebration luncheon held at the Edmonton Conference Centre on Friday, Nov. 14. Pictured, BBO Chair Geoff Holroyd.
Former Tofield councillor resigns from library board
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Former Tofield deputy mayor and councillor Harold Conquest has resigned from his position on the Tofield Library Board as of Oct. 28. His letter of resignation, addressed to Tofield Municipal Library Board Chair Kevin Smook, was included in the list of correspondence of Council’s regular meeting held Monday, Nov. 10, as Tofield Council appoints all members of the library board.
“It has been a great pleasure to be part of the Library Board,”
New Ryley book store
Continued from Cover
start. I eventually want to do author signings; it would definitely be a big opportunity for both of us,” she said.
The bookstore has a cozy atmosphere with a fresh coat of paint, table and chairs, two easy chairs, and a kids chair.
Conquest’s letter read, “and to get to know and work with the members. I believe it is in the best interest of the new appointment from the Town of Tofield that I resign from the board. Please accept this letter as my official resignation effective immediately.”
Newly elected councillor Jennifer Durrant was appointed to represent the Town on the Tofield library board during Council’s organizational meeting held Monday, Oct. 27.
While on Council, Conquest had been appointed to serve on the library board at the 2024 organizational meeting. He had re-
Freeman said she’ll also serve coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.
The bookstore will be open Tuesday through Saturday every week. Currently set up in the Village Business Incubator, Freeman said she eventually hopes to move to another building but really likes the space she has now.
When asked about her vision or long-term
cently been reappointed to the library board during Tofield Council’s regular meeting before the municipal election, Tuesday, Oct. 14, dropping the title ‘councillor’ in the list of board members for Conquest and Smook.
This was a change made necessary as per the Government of Alberta in order for the library to apply for a government grant. Conquest had been on Council since 2004, but was not successful in reelection on Oct. 20.
“Of note,” Chief Administrative Officer Jeff Edwards said, “with Conquest now having
plans for the bookstore, Freeman said she’d love to open a tourist bookstore in Europe.
“That would be way in the future, though. Some bookshops in Europe don't have books written in English, so for tourists who want to buy a book in Italy, for example, but in English, I would have a shop set up there, and would get lots of attraction for that,” she said.
FARM LANDS FOR SALE BY TENDER
LANDS: NE-26-52-17-W4th containing 160 Acres, more or less Excepting thereout all mines and minerals
LOCATION: from Highway 16 – 3 miles south on RR171 Third quarter south of Twp 530 on the west side Lamont County, Alberta
POSSESSION: 12 noon on December 15, 2025
CONTACT: Tender packages can be picked up or emailed. Please call Kuzyk Law Office at 780-632-4552 OR email: maryann@kmlawyers.net
DEADLINE: Tenders to be completed on the form provided in the tender package and must be received at:
Kuzyk Law Office Postal Drawer 929 5038 – 50 Avenue VEGREVILLE, AB T9C 1S1
No later than 2:00pm, Wednesday, November 26, 2025.
Tenders will be opened at Kuzyk Law Office At 2:05pm on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Tenders will NOT be opened in public
submit his resignation, it is up to the library board to make the decision on how they choose to move forward, whether they are pleased with the amount of municipal representatives or if they would look for more public members at large.”
Oilfield Class 1 Drivers
W-K Trucking Inc. is an oilfield trucking company that hauls produced water and crude oil throughout Central-North-East Alberta. Our fleet consists of tridem and Super B units. We are recruiting new drivers as our work areas and crews are continuously expanding.
Class 1 Wages starting at $36/ hour No maintenance of the trucks required from drivers (on-site mechanics) Well
For most businesses, the Christmas Season is so important that it can make or break the kind of year you have. That's why it's so important to ADVERTISE!
The Tofield Mercury is once again selling special 'Shop Local' advertising pages this year, running from November 26 to December 17. Priced to be affordable for any size of business, you get
Town of Tofield to advertise on Global TV
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
At the last regular meeting of Tofield Council on Monday, Nov. 10, Council approved a oneyear Corus Entertainment marketing campaign with Global Television, estimated to cost just over $44,000, in order to advertise Tofield during the weather, encouraging people to move to town.
Chief Administrative Officer Jeff Edwards said that the Town has been actively looking at different ways to market Tofield beyond what has been done in the past.
“We have recognized the necessity for exposure, expansion, and growth,” Edwards said.
“The Town of Tofield has been actively working and sourcing alternate ways to market the community outside of what we have viewed as our traditional means.”
Edwards said the focus has been on television, believing it to provide the best exposure in reaching the demographic the Town is looking to market to.
“We have been able to narrow this down to Global Television specific to the weather component. I think that as we get into the winter months, if we're going to be travelling, doing things with our family,
then we are definitely paying attention to the weather,” he said.
The Town was presented with two options.
The $36,288 option is a seven-second program sponsorship billboard (banner) airing once per day, Monday to Saturday. As a bonus, in recognition of the Town as a sponsor for the Business Matters segment, the Town’s logo would also appear three times every weekday for the market check-ins.
The second option, quoted at $41,094.95 plus an estimated $23,000 for production costs, would involve the installation of a weather camera in Tofield, the creation of a 30-second commercial to air seven days a week, plus with what Edwards said would almost be considered the equivalent of the banner piece of option one.
“The secondary option would provide us further exposure,” Edwards said, “but because it does have additional options with it, it is higher in the amount.”
Edwards said that before the meeting Councillor Dustin Terpstra had asked him if any thought had been put into what the 30-second commercial would be about or what it would feature.
“Without having
worked with Global further on this, I believe the easy feedback would be to entice people to relocate, to highlight Tofield as a safe and appeasing place to live, and then, once again, trying to resolidify enticing people to come, to move, to build,” Edwards said.
Edwards also said that Terpstra had asked if there would be an additional cost for mounting the weather camera.
“To the best of my understanding, no, there is not,” Edwards said. “They simply require an area where they could keep the internal pieces. The quick thought in terms of placement, although it would need to be looked at by Global, I believe that we could have it right on our administration office. We have access to power, to Wi Fi, and we could also have the internal components host within our server room as well.”
Deputy Mayor Brenda Chehade said that by dividing the costs by 365 days, the Town would be paying about $99.42 a day for option one and $120.81 for option two. However, option one wouldn’t run Sundays, only appearing 312 times in 2026, making the cost for option one about $116.31 per day.
“I feel we’d make more of a difference,”
Councillor Elaine Taylor
said, “to have the camera, so people can see what the weather's like, and to have the commercial. I think it would be more bang for our dollar to go with the more expensive one. Option two lets us have our say more than what would be in the banner.”
“When you look at the cost,” Terpstra said, “in my opinion, it's a whole lot more cost effective to go with option two. Commercials speak directly to the audience, whereas it’s the audience that has to see and react to the seven-second billboard.”
Mayor Adam Hall asked if it would be possible to have the weather camera highlight Tofield events, like Winterfest fireworks, but Edwards said that the camera angle would remain stationary.
Councillor Jennifer Durrant said the commercials that she has seen for other communities in the area are good quality.
“They make those towns look really good. There is one that comes up frequently for Morinville; it's very well done and it's effective. I mean, you couldn’t make me leave Tofield, but it does make me go,
wow, that's a really nice place. It's a good advertisement, for sure,” Durrant said.
Edwards said that the
funding for this marketing campaign was not budgeted for this year and suggested that the Continued on Page 9
Shop Local is an important message we often see repeated and signalboosted living out here in our small communities, but never more so than in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
The message serves as a reminder, and an important one at that. If we want retail goods and services in our towns and villages, then we need to support what’s already here.
If we value having places to work, and reasons for kids to stick around after high school or college, a Shop Local mindset kind of has to factor into the monthly budget.
Our local businesses work really hard to stand out and set themselves apart from online retailers, but the struggle to compete with online gi-
Dear Editor,
The Nov. 5 edition of the Mercury saw your newspaper publish a letter 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
Shop Local should include local media, too OPINION
ants like Amazon, which provides convenience at your fingertips, can sometimes be overwhelming.
Promoting “Shop Local” helps remind people, and perhaps momentarily pauses that mental disconnect between “this is so convenient” and “oh, but I guess I could’ve just gone down the street and bought the same thing here.”
There’s a lot of money available at Christmastime, but it’s still finite, and local businesses put everything on the line hoping that you’ll choose them over American supergiants like Amazon. They hope you won’t just do all your shopping online or in the city. That being said, I’d be remiss not to point something out.
As your local media, we are fight-ing the same battle. Not against Ama-zon, but against Google and Meta (Facebook, Instagram) for advertisingdollars.
As much as the fantasy that we make money “selling papers” is fun, the reality is it barely pays the cost to print. How we make our money is through advertising.
Unfortunately, the Shop Local message - that mental pause I described earlier - doesn’t always get applied to businesses like ours.
When a local business is planning their Christmas marketing, and the entirebudgetissetasideforFacebook and Instagram, in essence, they too are choosing to do all their Christmas
shopping online. Just in a different way. All that local money that came in through the ecosystem of people who believe in supporting local businesses still winds up straight in an American company’s pockets. The very outcome we were trying to avoid. And that money is certainly never coming back.
So as we all set out over the next month to do our absolute best to fight for our local businesses, I ask that our readers will do the same for us.
Just as I’ll ask my friends, “did you buy that locally?” please consider asking yours, “did you promote that locally?”
ERIC ANDERSON
Letter: Challenging MLA Lovely’s claims on education and use of Notwithstanding Clause
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 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 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,
Correction
In the November 12 edition of The Tofield Mercury, in the article entitled ‘Great community turnout for Cornerstone fall supper,’ it was incorrectly stated that Cornerstone Christian Academy has budgeted to raise approximately $12,000, or 8 per cent of their total budget for the current school year, where it should have said $120,000.
We apologize for any confusion this may have caused.
Anderson Publisher Lisa Kuflay
Reporter
Assistant Michelle Anderson Payroll Administrator
Moren Production Kari Janzen Reporter
RCMP Report
Tofield RCMP received 62 calls for service during this time period – 16 complaints were related to traffic offences or driving complaints. Three vehicle collisions with one involving an animal. Three violation tickets and one 24 hour licence suspension issued.
Twenty-three files were related to Wellbeing checks, suspicious persons complaints,
Mental Health calls, or assistance to the general public in someway.
On Oct. 29, a complaint of break and enter into a business overnight located at 50 Ave and 49 St in Ryley was made. Stolen were several tools and equipment. Blood was located on scene and samples were taken for processing. File is still under investigation. One possible suspect has
Tofield RCMP responds to firearm-related complaint
On Nov. 6, Tofield RCMP received reports that a male had brandished a shotgun while threatening the lives of two individuals.
On Nov. 7, a warrant was obtained and executed by Tofield RCMP, with assistance from Alberta RCMP Emergency Response Team, Viking RCMP and Alberta RCMP Police Dog Services. The property was searched, and a stolen vehicle was recovered, but the suspect remains at large.
Subsequent efforts to locate the suspect have been unsuccessful but investigation suggests that the victims were targeted.
As a result, Aaron Robertson (32), a resident of Viking, Alta., was charged with multiple offences including:
•Extortion with a firearm;
•Uttering death threats;
•Possession of a firearm for a dangerous
purpose; and
•Possession of a firearm contrary to order.
Tofield RCMP are asking the public for help in locating Aaron Robertson, who is potentially armed and dangerous. If you see him, or have information about the whereabouts of Aaron Robertson, do not approach or try to apprehend him.
If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play. To contact RCMP nonemergency line within any Alberta RCMP jurisdiction call 310RCMP(7267).
been identified thus far.
On Oct. 30, a report of a break and enter into a property in Tofield on 60 Ave and 48 Street. A non-operational dirt bike was stolen. Cameras have been installed and are monitored. No suspects at this time.
Nov. 1, a report of break and enter into an outbuilding located in the rural area of Rge Rd 164 and Twp Rd 483 Beaver County was re-
RCMP seek suspects after series
ceived. Stolen were gas cans and oil jugs. A trail camera did capture photos of the thieves. No further suspects or witnesses at this time.
Nov. 2, a report of a break and enter into a residence located on Twp Rd 514 and Rge Rd 200 in Beaver County was made. Missing were various items from the previous owners. No witnesses.
On Nov. 4, a report of
stolen skidoo over the past two weeks was reported. Occurred on Rge Rd 164 and Twp Rd 483 Beaver County. No suspects or witnesses.
Nov. 5, a 18’ flat deck equipment trailer was stolen from Tofield. A metal chain securing the trailer to a fence was cut. No witnesses or suspects were identified. Trailer was located at 46 Avenue and 61 Street. Police requesting
the public notify them if have any information regarding this incident. It was reported on Nov 6th that the night before in Ryley, Aaron ROBERTSON was in possession of a sawed off shotgun. Numerous charges have been laid against ROBERTSON including firearms charges. Currently ROBERTSON is being sought by police for his outstanding warrant.
Tofield Mercury; Kerry, Michelle, Brennan, & Garrett Anderson; Eric & Ally Anderson; Lisa, Derick, Cody, Keifer, & Colton Kuflay; Crystal & Hunter Inverarity; Kari Janzen; Carole Nolan; Dorothy & Gilbert Suchy; Ken & Marilyn Bruha; Jean; Geoff Holroyd; Beaverhill Bird Observatory; Christine Armstrong; Kelly Phillips; Rose & Joe Yurkowski; Doug Hiob; Theresa Manderson, Mr. Handsome; Raymond Peterson; Darlene Williams; Ed & Vi Gara; Kari Janzen; Andy & Helen Hrabec; Steve Boa; Shirley Goeglein; Sylvia Race; Patsy & Howard Anderson;
or Cheque only. Stop by The Tofield Mercury in Tofield or mail donation to: Box 150, Tofield, AB T0B 4J0. Cheque payable to ‘Tofield/Ryley Food Bank’
Please note, we cannot take credit or debit payments.
Local firefighters complete hazmat training
Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter
The Tofield Fire Department wrapped up their third class of NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 1072 training earlier this month, with the 1072 training being the final portion of
the NFPA 1001 certificate. This training was completed by five volunteer members from Tofield and four from Ryley. "The 1001 certification is about 200 hours of training,” Tofield Fire Chief Kevin Moos said. “It is Pro Board certification that is internationally rec-
ognized. With the completion of this class, almost all Station 1 Tofield members will be 1001 trained. This training consists of all types of fire behaviour, firefighter strategies and tactics, health and safety, equipment use and care, first aid, incident command
Ryley Council and MLA
Jackie Lovely at the Alberta Municipalities Convention
system, as well as live fire training."
Completion of the NFPA 1001 certificate is a major
step for the fire department to commit to a high level of training. Moos said that those who may
be interested in joining the department can contact Beaver Emergency Services Commission.
for the Christmas Hamper Program! Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025 10 am –6 pm at Hare Foods-IGA
Matching component from IGA & Sobeys for hamper purchases on this day!!
CouncilCorner
Transparancy of all documents always available on town website
While on the campaign trail, many of the newly elected members of Council heard consistent messaging. One such takeaway was transparency and the availability of documents, including financial statements and Council meeting minutes.
Taking this in mind, collectively, we felt it important to highlight the Town of Tofield website, and the tools to which it holds, and can be used for.
The Town of Tofield has endeavoured to make municipal governance more accessible and transparent to residents. On our official website, there is public access to key documents including council meeting minutes and audited financial statements — foundational elements for civic accountability.
Under its “Council” section, the town states that “Minutes of council meetings are available
for public viewing and will be posted on this page once they have been approved and signed.” This communicates a clear policy: once minutes are finalized, they are published online rather than locked behind request-only access. That’s a positive practice in transparency.
Moreover, the financial section makes audited statements publicly downloadable in PDF form. For example, the town’s “Financial Statements” page lists the 2020-2024 statements available to the public. Having these statements readily available conveys both willingness to share financial data and a recognition that residents have a right to see how public funds are being used. What works well
•The documents are publicly accessible via the town’s website — no membership or
special login required.
•Multiple years of financial statements are available, which enables historical comparison and trend-analysis by interested residents.
•The council minutes page explicitly states the process: “once approved and signed” they will be made available, helping users understand why some recent meetings may not yet appear.
Tofield’s website reflects transparency: making both governance (meeting minutes) and financial (audited statements) information publicly available. For community members who want to hold the municipality accountable or simply stay informed, the availability of these documents is an important tool.
Respectfully submitted,
Mayor and Council
Volunteer firefighters from Tofield and Ryley completed the NFPA 1072 training earlier this month, which is the final portion of the NFPA 1001 certificate.
The Alberta Municipalities annual Convention and Trade Show took place in Calgary from Wednesday, Nov. 12 - 14 with well over 800 attendees representing areas from all over the province. Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely met with Ryley Council for introductions to newly elected members and to address priorities. LR: Councillor Mickey Wilson, Lovely, CAO Glen Hamilton-Brown, Councillor Stephanie McMillan, Deputy Mayor Cyndy Heslin.
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 19, 2025, Volume 18, Issue 46
Newly elected Beaver County
Reeve Gene Hrabec met with some government officials while attending the Alberta Municipalities Annual Convention and Trade Show.
Although Hrabec has attended many such conventions, this is the first as the reeve of the county. This was his opportunity to push forward on themes that have mattered to him during his time as deputy reeve in the recent past.
The convention was held Nov. 1214 in Calgary with over 800 representatives of the various municipalities in the province in attendance.
It is an opportunity to liaise with provincial officials to connect regarding issues of importance for the local jurisdictions, as well as participating in convention meetings and information sessions.
Reeve Hrabec and Camrose MLA
Jackie Lovely met for discussions with Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected areas, regarding prospective development issues in the county.
“The conversations with Environment were around water, drainage issues, and Beaver County’s commitment to working on future strategies,” said Hrabec, on Monday after the convention had concluded.
Hrabec meets ministers as reeve of county for the first time - discussions centred on Environment and Health
Beaver County is looking to increase its water supply to allow for greater economic development to take place in the county, and its industrial parks in the Ryley and Viking areas.
Hrabec and Lovely also met with the Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services, Adriana LaGrange, to discuss health issues, especially for seniors in the county which is a particular concern for Hrabec as the chair of the Beaver Foundation.
“Health discussions were around the continuing care model,” he said, a particular issue for seniors living in provincial housing such as lodges and manors.
Hrabec said this also involved discussions on how to, “free up beds and provide care to our seniors that are requiring higher or more levels of care in a 24/7 manner.”
The reeve has stated in his capacity as Beaver Foundation chair that seniors that the foundation’s latest initiative would be to try and provide a higher level of health service in the lodges so seniors can “age in place” instead of having to move out to other kinds of care facilities sooner than might be necessary.
This would mean putting in unscheduled services in rural Alberta to facilitate that process, he said.
Hubert & Margaret Graham
Patricia Harcourt
PHOTO SUPPLIED
Beaver County Reeve, Eugene Hrabec (middle) and Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely (left) had a discussion with the Minister of Environment and Protected Areas, Rebecca Schulz regarding emerging issues in the county.
From left to right: Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely, Beaver County Reeve Gene Hrabec and provincial health minister Adriana LaGrange pose for a photo after holding discussions at the rural municipaIity convention in Calgary last week.
December 17 9:30 AM IMPORTANT DATES
9:30 AM - 12:00 PM - Governance and Priorities CommitteeMeeting 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM - Regular Council Meeting
STOP DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
November is Family Violence Prevention Month
Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and loved.
No one should have to live in fear.
GET HELP24/7
Online: alberta.ca/safetychat
Call or Text: 310-1818
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NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNERS
PREPARATION OF THE 2025 ANNUAL ASSESSMENT FOR 2026 TAXATION
Please note: Due to the ongoing postal strike, Beaver County is providing this notice online and through alternate channels. The Assessment Department will begin conducting property inspections for: Development permits issued in 2025, and Developments from previous years that were not yet completed. The inspector will be visiting properties to verify and collect data on new or existing developments.
This work helps ensure fair and equitable property assessments throughout Beaver County.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Assessment Department at 825-385-0055.
OPEN TENDER
Beaver County is currently accepting submissions for the following:
TEN2025-16INFR - NEW ASHPALT DISTRIBUTOR TRUCK
Closes: December 2, 2025 @ 10 a.m. Local time
Please find complete information for all requests on our website > Business > RFPs, Tenders, Leases & Sales
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Website: claystonewaste.com
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We’llbefeaturingthesestoriesonourBeaverCountyUnlockedsocial accountsandinourBusinessBulletinnewsletter,helpingconnectlocal businesseswithresidentsandotherentrepreneursacrosstheregion. Attheheartofthisprogramisasimplegoal:tocelebratethe businessesthatstrengthenourcommunitiesandtosparkinspiration forthenextgenerationofentrepreneurs.Wewantresidentstosee what’spossible,feelsupported,andknowtheycanbuildtheirfuture righthereinBeaverCounty. ScantheQRcodeto applytohighlight yourbusiness!
ThefollowingDevelopmentApplicationshavebeenAPPROVED(except whereotherwisenoted)bytheDevelopmentAuthorityundertheprovisions ofLandUseBylawNo.98-801,subjecttotherightofappealtotherelevant appealbody-SubdivisionandDevelopmentAppealBoard(SDAB)orLand andPropertyRightsTribunal(LPRT).
APPEALDEADLINE
AppealBody ApplicationNo. Applicant Landowner Location Development
DECEMBER17,2025
SDAB 020020-25-D0068
JULIEANDRUSIAK
KORYANDRUSIAKANDSOPHIAUMARJI
LOT3,BLOCK1,PLAN0822037INSE-27-52-19-W4 DiscretionaryUse–896ft2ModularHome(Dwelling, AccessoryUnit)
Anypersonwishingtoappealanapplicationmaydosoby servingwrittennoticeontheprescribedform(stating reasonsfortheappeal)totherelevantappealbody.For informationonhowtoappealcanbefoundourourwebsite under Services>Planning&Development>Appealing PlanningDecisions Furtherinformationregardingtheabovedecisionsmaybe obtainedfromtheCountyOffice,Ryley,Alberta.
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4 - Beaver County Chronicle, November 19, 2025
BESC says fire restriction still necessary as risk remains high
Patricia Harcourt
Beaver Emergency Services Commission (BESC) issued an explanation to all residents in urban and rural areas of Beaver County regarding fire restrictions.
BESC has announced that the Beaver Region “remains a mix of moderate to high fire risk as of Nov. 25, 2025.”
For this reason, the public must continue to adhere to the restrictions imposed by BESC for the past two months.
“The fire restriction will remain in place until conditions throughout all of Beaver County decrease to a low or moderate rating,” stated BESC, adding: “Thank you for your understanding.
Along with the announcement on restrictions, a legend was released showing five different levels of fire hazard.
Blue stands for low levels but fire
can still ignite although it is not expected to spread to deeper vegetation levels or larger fuels, such as trees.
The green colour stands for moderate fire risk, which means a “creeping or gentle surface fire,” likely.
Yellow indicates a high risk.
“Vegetative fuels are dry and fire risk is serious,” is the statement for this colour on the legend scale.
The yellow colour means that “moderate to vigorous surface fire is expected, which may spread to treetops.” Plus, “conditions may be challenging for fire suppression efforts.”
However, there are two more extreme possibilities for fire hazard including orange, which is a very high risk with high intensity fire that spreads to treetops. In this scenario fire starts easily and suppression efforts are also challenging.
That is due to extremely dry vegetation which poses a high fuel risk.
The red on the legend is an indication of an extreme level of hazard.
With red, “a fast spreading, high intensity fire is likely, which is very difficult to control.”
Beaver County’s part of the legend
shows green with blue patches in the north-west of the county for low risk fires possible, and yellow for the rest of the county for moderate to vigorous fire possible.
County ends policy of non-profits going under insurance due to liability issues
But existing organizations already allowed can remain
Patricia Harcourt
A new Policy #CORP-014Insurance Claims was adopted by Beaver County Council on Wednesday, Nov. 5.
The new policy was introduced by Ruam Armdt, general manager of Corporate Services. In its revised state, the part of the policy that previously allowed putting non-profit organizations under its insurance umbrella has now been dropped.
Arndt said that the process of reviewing policies began in 2022 when council’s corporate plan included the goal of launching a policy review project within the next four years.
“Administration reviewed the current insurance Claim Policy and its accompanying administrative procedure and is recommending some minor changes,” he said, “including deletion of the reference to Additional Named Insures, or ANIs.”
Explained Arndt: “Insurance for Additional Named Insureds is more appropriately addressed under Policy #ADM-004 - Insurance Policies.”
But he added: “However, administration is recommending that this policy be rescinded and that the
county discontinue accepting nonprofit groups as Additional Named Insureds under the County’s ANI coverage,” stated Arndt.
The reason given was that “Administration provides no direct oversight of these organizations operations and buildings, but could still be held liable in the event of a claim.”
Deputy Reeve Lionel Williams asked: “How many non-profits are now covered under county insurance?”
Arndt provided a list of current non-profits covered as AdditionalNamed Insureds, adding they “would continue to be covered,” by the county.
The current non-profits under county insurance includes: Bruce Sports and Stampede Association; Beaver Heritage and Agricultural Society; Beaverhill Players Society (contents); and Kinsella Recreation and Agricultural Society.
The new Insurance Claims policy was approved along with its administrative procedure.
Then council rescinded the previous Insurance Claims Policy and accompanying procedure. Finally, council also rescinded Policy #ADM004 - Insurance Policies.
This means that, going forward, no
new non-profit organizations will be able to ask the county for insurance coverage under the county’s umbrel-
Tofield ads on Global TV
Continued from Page 5
money should come from
either the Claystone Waste dividend or the Local Government Fiscal Framework (LGFF) Operating Stream.
“If I could provide feedback,” Edwards said, “I believe that this would be an excellent
project to be able to access the unds from the Claystone component, as our LGFF operating funds could be used to possibly fund something once we get into 2026, from an operating perspective.”
Record breaking attendance for Holden Ag fall fundraiser
KARI JANZEN PHOTO
A record breaking number of people attended the Holden Agricultural Society's annual fall fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 15, with 258 steaks dinners sold. Community members in support of the maintenance and upkeep of the Holden Complex were literally lined up out the door for the steak supper and live and silent auction event. "This is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Ag Society and I would love to give a humongous thank you to everyone who came out. It really means a lot," Holden Ag Society president Lucy Upham said.
Tofield’s Austin Dehid gets a 2-point game
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.
Strathcona U16 AA Warriors won a 6-2 road game on Saturday at Fort McMurray with Tofield’s Bentley Carson connecting twice and Baylee Roberts scoring once for Warriors. Also on the squad is Lane Dehid. So far this season, Bentley has 2g 5a 7pts, Baylee has 8g 2a 10 pts and Lane has 2g.
Tofield’s Austin Dehid scored a goal and picked
up an assist for her Tier 1 U15 SP650 female team’s 4-3 loss against BE650 on Saturday at Millennium Place in Sherwood Park. On the season, Austin has 3g 3a for 6 pts in 6 GP.
Tofield’s Cale Helfrich picked up an assist in his Sherwood Park AAA Squires 5-3 loss on Saturday to GPAC Storm.
Jacob Bigney is having another successful season, now with the Strathcona Bruins. The star goaltender now 18, was 9-1 last season with Strathcona Warriors and had a .951 save percentage. This year he has a .923 save percentage in the Capital Jr Hockey League for the 6-10-3 Bruins. On Saturday he replaced the starting goalie who allowed six goals in 24 shots. Jacob allowed one goal and made 37 saves for the remainder of the game in the 7-0 loss, for a .974 save per-
Durrant moved that Council approve the Corus Entertainment marketing campaign, specific to Global Television, specifically option number two. All council
members voted in favour and the motion was carried. Terpstra asked if where the funds were coming from should be included in the motion, so a friendly amendment was made to the motion to specify that the funds for the marketing campaign will come from the Claystone dividend, which was carried.
centage game.
KERRY ANDERSON
$20/wk for the
35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers 16,000 readers
COMING EVENTS
VIKING HEALTH CENTRE AUXILIARY CHRISTMAS MARKET
Thursday, December 4
11 am to 5 pm
Viking Community Hall
Lunch available for purchase
Great Christmas ideas, Crafts, Baking, Gifts, Décor & more
To reserve table, call Kim 780-385-0902 46/48c
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DaysArts presents as part of their 2025-26 Concert Series
John Wort Hannam
Wednesday, December 3 at 7:30 pm. Daysland Palace Theatre For more information and tickets contact Sharon 780-374-2403 email info@daysarts.ca
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Flagstaff Rural Crime Watch
Annual General Meeting
Tuesday, Nov. 22 at The Hive in Sedgewick, starting at 7 p.m. All are welcome.
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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
COMING EVENTS
Soup, Sandwich, & Dessert
Please join us on Thurs. Nov. 27 11am-1pm
$13/person
Hamburger or chicken noodle For takeout or delivery call Susan 780-288-1099 before noon on Wed. Nov. 26.
Tofield Golden Club 5004-54 Ave. Tofield, AB TM46C
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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.
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
GALAHAD LIONS CLUB
Turkey BINGO
Monday Dec 1st
Galahad Agriplex at 7:00 PM 15 Go-Go Bingos, 1 Bonanza, 1 Door Prize. Master Card $5.00
COMING EVENTS
Toonie Clothing Sale. Friday, Nov. 28 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 29 from 9 a.m. to Noon. Daysland United Church
Sedgewick Farmers Bonspiel Dec 9 - 12th.
Late afternoon/evening draws with meals provided. Mens/Ladies/Mixed welcome! Call
POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678
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
Saskatoons, frozen, 4 litre bags, $25.00. Call or text 780-893-5490. Delivery possible.
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
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MEMORIAL
In Loving Memory of William P. Lewis
Nov. 16, 1938 - Nov. 19, 2004. We hated to see you leave, But we know it was for the best. You wanted to see those gone before you, And medically speakingwe know you needed a rest. So say hello for us to those gone first, Enjoy their company again, We know in our hearts that some day, We will all meet once again.
Lovingly remembered by Maryann, Scott, Charlotte, Scott & Family, Darren, Jodi, and Kade.
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
taper/texturer here to help you with any job,
or small. Don't want to do it yourself? Give me a call! Murray Cholowsky Flagstaff Taping & Texturing Call or
PRICING
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers
16,000 readers
SERVICES
Town & Country Guardian Drugs
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.
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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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Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
CLASSIFIEDS
NOTICES. EVENTS. ANNOUNCEMENTS. THANKS. MEMORIALS. SALES. RENTALS. REAL ESTATE. GIVE AWAYS. & MORE!
SERVICES
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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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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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.
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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!
EXTRAORDINARY VILLA IN
OSOYOOS, BC, breathtaking lake views, just 3 minutes from town. Vacation in Canada's warmest destination. Or for warmer weather, two luxurious 5-star resort units in Phoenix, Arizona. Call Doug: 306-716-2671.
Holden and Ryley commemorate Remembrance Day
Holden and area residents met at the cenotaph on main street on Tuesday, Nov. 11 for the annual Remembrance Day ceremony, which
parade march to the cenotaph and local individuals and organizations laid wreaths. Holden Legion president Ivan Hrabec, Holden mayor Carl Marsh, and Viking Alliance Church pastor Steven TeVelde each spoke at the ceremony and fellowship that followed at the Holden Legion.
CHERYL POPE PHOTO
The community of Ryley showed their appreciation and reverence for all those who have served to protect Canada at Ryley's Remembrance Day ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 11. The cenotaph service was followed by a service at the Ryley Community Hall and a potluck lunch was held at the Legion afterwards.
Northern Lights dazzle across Beaver County
Dr. Peter Yoo
IRENE CROSLAND PHOTO
A geomagnetic storm on Nov. 11 and 12 resulted in a spectacular northern lights display last week. "What our eyes could see dimly, but certainly, are brought to life by the lens of the camera. Such an explosion of colour; a dizzying dance of shards of atmospheric energy. Starting as bands of green on the northern horizon at sunset, the aurora built in intensity as darkness descended on Remembrance Day," Tofield resident Irene Crosland said.
ANNETTE CHRYSTIAN PHOTO
New Holden fire hall build underway
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Construction of the new Holden fire hall began in mid-October and Beaver Emergency Services Commission (BESC) Regional Manager Steve Upham says that they are expecting the project to be completed by early May 2026. The new location is just down the street of the current fire hall, east of the Holden Community Hall.
“The new hall will be far bigger, 50 feet by 120 feet, plus we've got two floors. Eventually the upper floor will house the main BESC administration office which will make our operations a bit more central to the region,” Upham said.
Currently, the BESC administration office is located in Viking, and manages five fire stations: Tofield, Ryley, Holden, Viking, and Kinsella.
“The larger building will also provide us with storage space for specialized equipment and supplies that could be required throughout the BESC response region,” Upham said.
Upham said that Holden’s current fire hall just isn’t big enough anymore, especially now that the sta-
tion will soon be adding a brush truck to their three other units which include a pumper, tanker, and rescue mini pumper.
“There is nothing wrong with the current fire hall, per se, but the fact that it is hopelessly undersized. We can’t get the apparatus in there that we need. It was probably built in the 60s, and then added onto in the 80s but that was back when fire trucks were single axle Chevys. The way we provide service to our communities has grown and expanded a lot since then,” Upham said.
Holden fire chief Blair Ewasiuk said that the department is eager to move into the new fire hall.
“We're excited to be getting a bigger hall. We're pretty cramped where we are right now, and we'll be glad to have room for our new brush truck that we're getting soon,” Ewasiuk said.
At this point, once the transition has been made into the new hall, Upham said that they will likely use the old building for storage.
“Until we know whether we can justify keeping it, we're going to keep it for storage, and maybe use it for
training and things like that. In the future, whoever’s in my position or on the board at that time may make a decision to liquidate it, but at this point I think we can find a use for it,” Upham said. Upham said that talk about building a new fire hall in Holden has been in discussion for about three years.
“We had to get ourselves in a position to be able to afford it.
We've got a bit of a lull in our big apparatus replacement plan at this point, so it was a good opportunity to
stick the fire hall in there with a minimum disruption to our member municipalities financially,” Upham said.
“We're happy with the community support for this project, and we can't wait to have it up and running to help with providing a safe and secure environment for people within the heart of the Beaver County region,” Upham said.
KARI JANZEN PHOTO
The construction of Holden’s new fire hall is well underway. The project is expected to be completed by May 2026. The new location is just down the street of the current fire hall, east of the Holden Community Hall.