The Bank of Montreal’s Tofield branch has a new face at the helm. Tara Longbotham has stepped into the role of branch manager, bringing with her more than a decade of experience with BMO and a professional background that spans a variety of industries.
“I’ve worked in all kinds of sales industries over the years, each one teaching me something new,” Long-
botham said. “I started out with the Calgary Flames, but don’t hold it against me, selling season tickets. It was definitely a fun and fast-paced environment. From there, I joined my father-in-law in the world of booking bindery equipment, which was a whole different kind of challenge. Eventually, I found my way into finance, where I’ve been able to bring all those experiences together and really thrive.”
Longbotham joined BMO 13 years ago, following a period as a mortgage broker during the economic downturn of 2008.
“I had recently had my daughter, and while I loved the work, the timing wasn’t ideal,” she said. “The 2008 market downturn made it tough to find consistent business. That’s when BMO approached me; they were looking for someone with strong lending skills, and it turned out to be a great fit. I’ve been growing with the organization ever since.”
Longbotham said she is excited to join the community.
“There’s something really special
about working in a community where everyone genuinely supports one another,” Longbotham shared. “The warmth and friendliness I’ve experienced so far has been wonderful. It’s refreshing to be part of a place where smiles are common and connections matter.”
Longbotham said her move to Tofield came at the perfect time.
“Tofield kind of found me at just the right time. I was ready for a change; my daughter was heading off to college and my husband’s workplace had recently closed its doors. It felt like the perfect moment to reset and explore something new.”
Settling into her new role, supporting her team and helping them grow is a key priority for Longbotham.
“I believe in creating an environment where people feel valued, heard, and empowered to take on new challenges. That means regular coaching, celebrating wins, big and small, and making space for learning and development.”
Longbotham believes a local branch fosters community connection.
“A local branch plays a meaningful role in the life of a small town — it’s often more than a place to do banking,” she said. “In communities where familiarity and trust matter, having a team that understands the local context helps foster stronger connections.”
Longbotham said she hopes to bring new programs to benefit the local area.
“Whether it’s financial literacy workshops, small business support, or youth engagement activities, I believe the branch can play a key role in helping the community thrive.”
Longbotham also said she is open to hearing directly from residents about what matters most to them.
“Sometimes the best ideas come from casual conversations,” she said. When it comes to the financial challenges faced by families today, Longbotham points to the rising cost of to
Continued on Page 18
Halloween to come early to Tofield this Sunday
Cassandra Lundbek Staff Reporter
The Tofield community will once again be turning main street into a hub of Halloween fun this weekend as families are invited down for the annual Trunk or Treat, hosted by the Tofield and District Chamber of Commerce, followed by the Tofield Agricultural Society’s Family Bingo on Sunday, October 26.
This will be the third year the two events are held together, offering families a full afternoon of community celebration and seasonal spirit.
“It’s a great event for families, offering a family-friendly, barrier-free, pet-friendly, and inclu-
sive event,” said Greg Litwin, when asked about the benefit to the community.
Local organizations and businesses are encouraged to decorate their vehicles and hand out candy, giving them an opportunity to connect with families in the community. There is no need to pre-register; participants can arrive at 11:30 a.m. to set up before the street opens to trickor-treaters from noon to 2 p.m. The Tofield Food Bank is also expected to be on site and will be accepting donations.
Following the Trunk or Treat, the Tofield Agricultural Society will host its family cash bingo at the Tofield Community Hall.
Doors open at 1:30 p.m., timed so that families can head directly from main Street to the community hall, with bingo starting at 2:30 p.m.
There will be a candy jar guessing contest and children are allowed to buy a bingo card to play along with the adults who accompany them.
The proceeds from the bingo go toward the Western Days Promenade, helping make it possible for the rides and promenade to be free for the kids.
Both the Chamber and Ag Society emphasize that community events like these wouldn’t be possible without the work of local committees and volunteers. They are
October 19 - 25, 2025
proud of the work they’ve done to offer in-
clusive events like this that bring families together and out into the community..”
p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 26, followed by the Tofield Ag Society’s family
starting at 2:30 p.m.
In
recognition of Small Business Week, the Tofield & District Chamber of Commerce would like to acknowlege the value and contributions of Tofield and area businesses and organizations. We appreciate you!
MERCURY FILE PHOTO
The Tofield Chamber of Commerce’s Trunk or Treat will be held from noon to 2
cash bingo,
Local private and charter schools still open during teacher strike
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Students who attend Cornerstone Christian Academy (CCA) in Kingman or Holden Rural Academy haven’t missed a day of classes during the Alberta teachers strike, as independent school teachers are only permitted to be associate members of the Alberta Teachers’ Association.
“The wages and contract terms for Cornerstone staff are set by the CCA Board, not by provincial negotiation,” CCA principal Alan Welde said.
Welde it’s business as usual for students and staff, though not without some challenges.
“A few secondary students enrolled in an online course through a public school are unable to access their course and complete assignments.
Cornerstone students are unable to play league games with BRSD schools. Instead, team members attend practices after school, and some games have been arranged between our Senior High and Junior High teams,” he said.
Welde said CCA is a
not-for-profit organization and their financial records are rigorously audited every year to ensure the school is using Alberta Education grants properly.
“When our enrolment increases, our Alberta Education grants increase; when our enrolment declines, we receive less from Alberta Education. We are funded on a per-pupil basis. We receive about 70 per cent of what the public system is given in the ‘Education Grant’ and 70 per cent of the ‘Transportation Grant.’
We do not receive building or capital funding.
Parents pay a tuition of $3,000 for one child per year to a maximum of $7,900 for three or more children per year to at-
tend,” Welde said.
While not on strike, Welde said that CCA understands and empathizes with class size concerns and the complexity of the Alberta Education system.
“Cornerstone also navigates split grades and an increasing number of students with complex needs. Our colleagues in other schools want to be in class with their students. Their passion and their commitment is working with students. We know this strike interrupts student learning and causes tremendous hardship for families providing child care. We hope for a quick resolution that supports a wellfunded education system for all students and teachers,” Welde
said.
“There is so much information and misinformation presented to the public. For people who feel there is preferential treatment or funding provided to independent schools in Alberta, as some sources suggest, I’d suggest you read an opinion piece written by John Jagersma for the Calgary Herald entitled, ‘Setting the record straight on Alberta’s independent school funding.’ Jagersma is writing on behalf of the Association of Independent Schools and Colleges in Alberta, of which Cornerstone is a member,” Welde said.
Holden Rural Academy declined to comment on the topic of the teachers strike.
AS THE DEADLINE FOR PAYMENT OF 2025 COUNTY PROPERTY TAXES WAS JULY 31, 2025
If payment is not received by October 31, 2025, a 10% penalty will be added to any outstanding current taxes on November 1, 2025.
Tax payments can be made at the County Office at 3755 43 Avenue, Camrose, Alberta T4V 3S8.
After hours/weekend payments can be placed in the mailbox at the front door. (Please do not deposit cash in the mailbox) or you can pay online or at any financial institution (on or before deadline).
Also, cheques received post-marked by October 31, 2025 will be considered on time.
There is also a credit card payment feature called OPTION PAY available on the Camrose County Website for your convenience. For more information, visit: www.county.camrose.ab.ca
Camrose County offers a Pre-Authorized Monthly Payment Plan for taxes.
If you wish to start on January 1, 2026, your application must be received before December 15, 2025.
Application forms and further information can be obtained from the Camrose County website: www.county.camrose.ab.ca or by emailing tax@county.camrose.ab.ca or by contacting the County Office at 780-672-4446.
Teresa Gratrix County Administrator Camrose County
A proposal that
So when do you put a stop to a ridiculous request for funding from climate change advocates?
During the last election, the Carney Liberals promised a pilot project to provide paid training for young Canadians to respond to climate emergencies. The budget amount was $288 million over a two year span.
Now, according to Blacklock’s Reporter, the Climate Action Network has told the Commons finance committee that Canada must go “much further to truly meet the moment and provide good green jobs for young Canadians.”
They want the government to spend $1 billion annually on youth employment in climate-related sectors.
The Climate Action Network called that “too small” and said a fullscale program could “train young workers in emergency response to extreme weather events and build clean infrastructure,” while combating skyrocketing youth unemployment.
The David Suzuki Foundation’s Climate Emergency Unit also endorsed the $1 billion proposal, saying it could create 20,000 jobs a year and potentially double that, if provinces
OPINION
matched federal funding. Students and other young workers could serve as firefighters, solar panel installers, and general labourers on climatefocused projects, typically in two-year fulltime terms.
“A Youth Climate Corps would send a clear signal that we are taking the climate emergency seriously while launching careers in skilled trades to build clean energy and housing projects at speeds not seen in generations,” the foundation said, calling the Liberal pilot “too modest” and insisting a scaled-up corps could be “truly transformative.”
But why do these climate/environment groups want you and me, the Canadian taxpayer, to fund these projects?
Take fire training for example. Don’t fire departments already train their recruits in fighting basic fires and specialty fire possibly involving hazardous goods or even wildfires?
And further, the Province has a wildfire fighting team which is dispatched to areas where wildfires occur to lend assistance and proper methodology to those local firefighters on the ground.
In fact these specialized crews can come from
Australia, South Africa or other parts of the world to fight fires when their help is required.
And solar panel installers?
When members of my family expanded their solar panel collection on their roof this summer, the company installing the panels had a well trained crew who had been in this business for several years.
If the Climate Action Network or the Suzuki Foundation want to train these young workers outside of the normal channels, then they should be
Women represent about half of Alberta’s population, but did you know they only make up about one-third of students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs – commonly known as STEM – and just one-quarter of people working in STEM careers?
When women are empowered to follow their passions and chase their dreams, we unlock new potential, drive economic growth, and build a stronger, more vibrant Alberta.
That’s why our United
RANT
digging into their own plentiful funds to supply the training.
These climate agencies have long lists of donors and corporate sponsors sending them money annually, so they have the resources the develop their own training programs.
Why do they insist the government, and through the government, we the taxpayers, support this duplication of already happening training programs.
I recognize that youth unemployment is at an all time high, but there
are programs, courses and training in place to support these youth if they want to enrol in them.
And if the programs are already operating that means the funding is already in place whether it’s being done privately or through ongoing government subsidies at the federal, provincial or municipal level.
No, rather than further raiding the taxpayer pocketbooks, these climate agencies should dig into their own if they want additional training for these “truly transfor-
mative” youth corps which doesn’t have much hope of success beyond the levels that are currently provided.
The Carney Liberals would be wise to just steer clear of this request from the Climate Action Network and leave the funding as it currently sits.
But that would mean the Liberals do something practical - something bordering on common sense. And we know that doesn’t happen.
JOHN MATHER
MLA Lovely: Province moves to put more women in STEM programming
Conservative government has proudly designated the third week of October as Women in STEM Week. Our government wants to build a future where everyone has a fair chance to succeed and where new ideas can become real.
By highlighting and celebrating women in STEM, we’re showing more girls and women across Alberta that their ideas matter and their talents are important.
This is also why our government has the Women in STEM Scholarship – to help women step
into fields where they’re under-represented, break down barriers, and open doors to education and exciting careers.
This scholarship awards $2,500 annually to 50 Alberta women for their studies in STEM-related fields where their gender is underrepresented, or to women actively working to promote gender equality within their chosen fields.
Thanks to the University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus right here in Camrose, women who are passionate about applied sciences can take STEM
courses close to home. Having these options nearby make it easier for women to explore their interests and build meaningful careers in STEM. This week, and every week, we celebrate the incredible contributions of women in STEM and promise to keep supporting the next generations of women leaders and innovators.
Kerry Anderson Publisher Lisa Kuflay Manager Reporter Reporter Office Assistant Michelle Anderson Payroll Administrator Crystal Moren Production
Kari Janzen Reporter
Buy, charge, and recycle lithium-ion batteries safely
The theme of fire prevention 2025 is ‘Charge into Fire Safety,’ highlighting the importance of safe usage of lithiumion batteries.
“The campaign stresses how important it is to buy, charge, and recycle safely when it comes to lithium-ion batteries,” the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) website says.
Lithium-ion batteries are common in rechargeable products like personal electronics including cell phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, as well as toys, power tools, baby monitors, portable power banks, vaping products, and e-mobility products.
According to the Gov-
ernment of Canada’s website, lithium-ion batteries are generally safe to use however there are some risks involved, as with any kind of battery, including overheating, fires, and explosions.
The three steps as outlined by NFPA are to buy only listed products, charge devices safely, and recycle batteries responsibly.
“Buy only listed products. When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means it meets important safety standards.
“Charge devices safely. Always use the cords that came with the product to charge. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Buy new chargers from the manu-
facturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged.
“Recycle batteries responsibly. Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire. Recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location,” the NFPA website says.
Beaver County residents can dispose of televisions, computers, servers, laptops, tablets, printers, copiers, scanners, and fax machines at Claystone Waste transfer stations, located at Lindbrook, Tofield, Ryley, and Viking. The Kinsella transfer station does not
accept electronics.
Federal Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience Eleanor Olszewski said it is also equally important to practice outdoor fire prevention.
“Follow local fire bans, fully extinguish campfires, and avoid camping near dry grass or dense brush. Never discard cigarette butts into vegetation, and stay informed of local wildfire updates. I'd also like to thank the firefighters, fire safety leaders, emergency workers,and volunteers who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe, and honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Together, we can help protect our homes and communities from the threat of fire,” Olszewski said.
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Beaver County firefighters respond to 313 calls in 2024
Janzen Staff Reporter
Beaver Emergency Services Commission (BESC), a regional partnership established by an Order in Council between the Towns of Tofield, Viking, Villages of Holden, Ryley and Beaver County in 2010 manages the administration and oversees operations of the volunteer fire departments in Tofield, Ryley, Holden, Bruce, Viking, and Kinsella.
Last year, from January to December 2024, Beaver County firefighters responded to a total of 313 calls, which included 61 alarm calls, 43 medical calls, 39 motor vehicle collisions, 24 motor vehicle fires, 44 outside fires, 13 structure fires, 22 miscellaneous calls, and 67 support calls.
The Tofield Fire Dept. responded to 103 calls, Ryley responded to 47, Holden to 60, Bruce 12, Viking 71, and Kinsella 20. Viking responded to the most alarm calls, at 23, Tofield at 19, Ryley 13, Holden 5, Kinsella one, and Bruce zero. Holden responded to the most
medical calls, at 15, with Tofield at 14, Ryley six, Viking five, Bruce three, Kinsella zero.
Tofield responded to the most motor vehicle collisions, 16, with Holden responding to 9, Viking at 8, Ryley three, Kinsella two, and Bruce one.
Tofield attended seven vehicle fires, Holden and Viking each attended six, Ryley three, and Bruce and Kinsella one each.
Tofield responded to the most outside fires at 17, with Viking at 13, Holden 10, Bruce three, Ryley one, and Kinsella with none.
Tofield responded to seven structure fires, Viking three, Holden two, Ryley one, and Bruce and Kinsella at none.
As found on the website, the entire fleet of the six departments consists of eight pumpers, four tankers, seven brush trucks, two rescue units, three utility vehicles, and two quads.
“BESC has a mandate of fire services and emergency management services to our municipal partners. The regional partnership, the first of its kind in Alberta, consists of six local fire depart-
ments with approximately 100 volunteer firefighters. Collectively, they respond to more than 300 calls annually,” the website says.
Tofield, Holden, and Viking are Level 3 stations, able to provide all levels of fire suppression, rescue, traffic control, medical assistance, and hazardous materials first response in their respective fire areas. Ryley is a Level 2 station, covering full fire suppression and first aid application, with Bruce and Kinsella being Level 1, able to cover grass fire suppression and first aid application.
“Service provided by Kinsella and Bruce are at a limited level of service according to qualifications and resources. Under the direction of a Level 3 station, they provide defensive support for local area fires, motor vehicles collision, and other emergency incidents when safe to do so. This may include first response to grass/bush fires, to other local area fires, traffic control for motor vehicle collisions, and medical first response as assistance is re-
quested by EMS unit(s),” the website says.
“Service provided by the Ryley fire department is at Level 2 service according to qualification and resources. Working in conjunction with a Level 3 station, Ryley may provide response support for their local area fires when safe to do so, motor vehicle collisions, traffic control and medical assistance as requested by EMS unit(s).” The website also notes that only the Level 3 stations provide vehicle rescue/extrication.
Front, L-R: Captain Devan McCharles, Chief Kevin Moos, Assistant Chief Wayne Codd, Lieutenant Scott Boese.
Missing: Calvin Bodnar, Chris Day, Cody Forbes, Matt Gates, Shane Hnybida, Ryley Kingham, Lindsey Luymes, Wyatt Magneson, Michael Murphy, Chad Rezewski, Mark Spilchen, Stephan Wurthrich, Assistant Chief Dan Schmick, Captain Bill Fawcett, Captain Dave Fergson, Lieutenant Sam Hofmeyer, Lieutenant John Lehman, Captain Andrew Schmidt. Ph:
September
Serving all the farms, ranches, acreages and towns in Beaver County Bruce, Holden, Kinsella Ryley, Tofield, Viking
The Beaver County Chronicle
The unofficial results for the Beaver County Council election on Monday, Oct. 20 returned four incumbents to their seats on council, with one incumbent losing his seat to a new candidate.
Re-elected were Kevin Smook, who served as reeve in the last four-year term, in Division 1. Lionel Williams was elected by acclamation in Division 2.
Gene Hrabec, who served as Deputy Reeve in the last term, won again in Division 3, and Dale Pederson was also re-elected in Division 5. Incumbent for Division 4, Barry Bruce, lost his seat to challenger Shawn O’Shea.
The unofficial vote breakdown for each division is as follows:
Returning Officer Margaret Jones stated that the official results will be posted at noon on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025.
The first meeting of the newly elected council will be an organization meeting held on Oct. 30 at
Four incumbents return to Beaver County Council
9:30 a.m. At this meeting, council will vote on which councillor will take the positions of Reeve, Deputy Reeve and Acting Reeve, as well as appointments to the various boards and committees.
A Governance and Priorities Committee meeting will take place Nov. 5 at 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon; to be followed by a regular council meeting from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the same day.
Lyle Albrecht returns as BRSD trustee for Ward 2
Patricia Harcourt
Incumbent Lyle Albrecht has been returned as trustee for Ward 2 of the Battle River School Division’s board of trustees following general municipal elections on Oct. 20. Albrecht received 955 votes compared to chal-
lenger Zsuzsanna Hemperger’s 738 votes.
In Ward 1, Valerie Ann Sims won with 1,088 votes compared to 873 votes for Patrick McFeely and 779 votes for Heather Doucet.
In Ward 3, Karen Belich was elected by acclamation.
And in Ward 4, Deanna Maertz won with 369
votes compared to 316 votes for Dwight Dibben. The new four year term will run from 2025 to 2029.
These unofficial election results were supplied by Returning Officer Margaret Jones.
Ward 5: Town of Wainwright and Area (including CFB Wainwright) aStephanie Cooper Tom Koskie Buffalo Trails Public
Ward 4: Central-West and SouthWest –(MD of Provost, the MD of Wainwright; and the Villages of Amisk, Czar, Hughenden, Irma. and the Hamlet of Fabyan and the Rosewood Hutterite Colony) aTanya Ford Jodie Laing
Viking RCMP wants to get out the word that it is now possible to report a vehicle collision online - in certain circumstances.
Report My Collision is a new online service for Albertans to be able to report single-vehicle collisions in a timely manner.
There are four kinds of collisions presently allowed for this particular reporting, states Sgt. Ray Stack, Viking RCMP Commander.
They include when a vehicle strikes an animal or object (that is not another vehicle, when a vehicle strikes a parked vehicle in a ‘hit and run” situation, or when a vehicle runs off the road.
Using the Report My Collision also depends on meeting certain eligibility criteria questions listed on the government webpage.
If you do meet the criteria, then other steps are recommended to take when reporting.
First, ensure all persons involved in the collision are safe, including yourself.
Take photos of the damaged areas of the vehicle and, if possible, the collision scene. Vehicle photos showing damage are a requirement of using the online service.
If the vehicle is still drive-able, and there are no serious injuries, and it is safe to do so, then drive the vehicle to the side of the road out of the line of traffic.
Refer to the following resource to learn more about what to do in the event of the collision at https://www.alberta.ca/automobile-
collisions-insurance
Report My Collision only supports single vehicle collisions involving one driver with a Class 3 licence plate, i.e. a passenger vehicle. Collisions involving commercially registered vehicles are not accepted at this time.
Collisions that involved two or more drivers will be supported in the future, states the website for this service. However, currently there are only the four types of collisions that can be reported to Report My Collision.
“All other types of collisions will require in-person reporting at the police station in the jurisdiction where the collision took place,” stated Stack.
Also, the Report My Collision cannot be used if there are any witnesses with information or any supporting evidence. For this situation, you are to report to a police station, also in the jurisdiction of the area where the accident occurred.
If a person has an Alberta.ca account, then start the reporting procedure by loggin in to that account, agreeing to the terms and conditions, and checking eligibility.
Then the report can be started by giving a basic account; however, a verified account is required in order to submit it.
But if there is a need to register, the website recommends checking eligibility before creating an account. The recommendation is to sign up for a verified Alberta.ca account.
To confirm you meet the eligibility requirements to use the service, Stack asks that you please visit Report My Collision online at report-my-collision.alberta.ca/
Ryley Fire Department
Back Row, L-R: Cpt. Wyatt Magneson, Assistant Fire Chief (AFC) Terry Magneson, Tristen Veno, AFC Keeton Gomolchuk, Laurence Zilkie.
Missing: District Fire Chief Weston Magneson, Lt. Connor Geibelhaus, Chris McKinney, Willis Reist, Lisa Young.
KARI JANZEN PHOTO
Holden Fire Department
Back, L-R: Reg Chetney, Cordell Janzen, Dave Zayonce. Middle, L-R: Isaiah Chetney, Jerica Chetney, Lucy Upham, Krisha Ligard, Ellen Ewasiuk, Hannah Chetney, Isaac Chetney. Front, L-R: Deputy Chief Dave Marko, Chief Blair Ewasiuk, Deputy Chief Justin Ewasiuk, Captain John Hrabec. Missing: Dave Golka, Katie Hrabec, Heather Kohlman.
KARI JANZEN PHOTO
Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter
Effective Oct. 1, the provincial government has made the Alberta Retinal Treatment Program permanent and free of charge for Alberta residents.
"The program started as the Retina Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Program for Intraocular Disease (RAPID) pilot program in 2015,” Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely said in a recent news release, “offering advanced eye injections to Albertans to protect their eyesight.
Alberta Retinal Treatment Program now permanent Beaver County CALP accepting new learners
opening it up to 2,000 more Albertans.
“We’re also doubling the treatment options available by adding Vabysmo, Eylea HD, and Triesence to the original list, which included Eylea, Lucentis, and Avastin. Additionally, all ophthalmologists in Alberta can take part in the program," Lovely said.
Lovely said that each year thousands of Albertans lose their eyesight because of retina problems.
“Because the pilot program was so successful, United Conservatives transitioned it to a permanent program and is
“If these problems aren’t treated, they can lead to permanent blindness. Historically, retina treatments were hard to get and expensive.
“Over the years I have met a number of
Camrose Constituency residents who have had to seek this type of treatment. These eye injections help protect vision, stop more sight loss, and let people stay independent and enjoy a better quality of life,” Lovely said.
Although the pilot program did previously include premiums or copayments to access the drugs, the permanent launch of the program comes with no co-payments or out-of-pocket costs, making all medications in the program free.
“Before, many Albertans had to pay out of pocket, but now all the treatment options are fully covered – with no hidden costs," Lovely said.
Most patients in the pilot program, numbering 23,000 between 2024 and 2025, were over the age of 65.
"With this new pro-
Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter
Programming from Beaver County CALP (Community Adult Learning Program) started up again for the season last month. Programs run from September to June, with some learners and tutors continuing through the summer months.
gram, everyone in Alberta can get the same high-quality treatment, no matter their age, income, or insurance.
“By building on the pilot program’s success, the Alberta Retinal Treatment Program will help thousands more Albertans protect their vision and get care when and where they need it," Lovely said.
"We are always accepting new learners,” Jocelyn Wynnyk, Adult Learning Program Coordinator said.
“We have tutors located all across Beaver County, and we are offering free adult tutoring in foundational literacy, literacy and ELL (English Language Learning) as well as high school diploma equivalency prep, called CAEC
(Canadian Adult Education Credential), which was previously GED (General Educational Development).”
CAEC testing can be done in Ryley at the Beaver County CALP office.
"Contact Beaver County CALP today and take the next step towards achieving your goals," Wynnyk said.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Ryley Lions Club has made the difficult decision to discontinue their annual Community Birthday Calendar project. After 46 issues we regret that we are unable to complete this fundraising project. We very much appreciate the support and participation our individuals and businesses have shown over many years of the calendar.
Ryley Lions Club
Missing Dog
Large, white Maremma breed dog. Female. Answers to Molly scared of guns - ran from home If you see her, please call 780-385-0430 or 780-385-4500 42-43
To Give Away: Bus seats available for free (out of a school bus-legs on one side only) Call 780-914-7861
CARD OF THANKS
Dad’s long life is over and we, the family of Don Cookson, will long remember and forever be grateful for the countless acts of kindness, support and love shown to Dad during his illness and to us as we dealt with the loss of our Dad, Granddad and Great-Granddad. We thank the doctors and devoted staff at Killam Long Term Care Centre who took such compassionate care of Dad. We thank Fee and Sons Ltd., Susan McKinnon, St. Andrew’s United Church ladies, and especially the grandchildren for their work in making Dad’s memorial service a joyous and healing experience. We thank family, friends and community members who stepped in to take over our responsibilities so that we could be with Dad. So many relatives, friends and neighbours have helped and continue to help us, and all of you are appreciated and loved.
Donna Cookson Martin, Sandra Rosiechuk, Wendy Edey, Allan and Nancy Cookson and Our Families
Flagstaff Players and our partner James Insurance Group would like to thank the follow who helped make our presentation of Jake's Gift possible: Mell and James Hampshire, Drumloche Farm-John and JerryLynn Burden, CJ Kinross VC Legion Branch Lougheed, Flagstaff Scottish Club, The Community Press, and Adam Watkins at Railside Spirits.
CLASSIFIEDS
COMING EVENTS
Round Hill Halloween Market
Monday, October 27 5-7pm
Jack-o'-lantern and costume parade For a table call or text Terry 780-678-6131
GARAGE SALE
Round Hill
Friday Oct 24th 10:30 am - 1 pm & Saturday Oct 25th 10:30 am - 6 pm
Straight East of Round Hill, 5.5 miles on South side.
Golf Clubs, tents, tools, 5 gallon water tank, sleeper for Chev truck, garden tractor trailer, miscellaneous items.
FOR RENT
Storage Unit For Rent in Killam Inside private warehouse building behind Community Press office. Security cameras on site, building heated in winter. Upstairs units available, approx 8’ x 12’. Back alley access only.
$99/mo. with $100 damage deposit. Or pre-pay for 6 months for $495 (1 month free) or pre-pay for 1 year for $990 (2 months free).
Rental contract required. First month due at signing. Call/Leave Voicemail for Ally 780-385-6693 or stop by The Community Press office on Main Street in Killam.
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 www.integritybuilt.com.
S-70 Bobcat For Sale 89 hours w/sweeper $31,000 Call Rick at 780-385-4054.
SALE
2008 VT Honda Shadow Rebuilt Carburetor, Ruby Red and Chrome. Runs & Rides great! 23,000km. Included is 2XL Helmet, 4XL Leather Jacket, bluetooth, Cardo Freecom. $5,400 Call Jason at 780-374-2484. 41/42p
Dobro Guitar For Sale Custom made by Paul Beard of Beard Guitar in Hagerstown, Maryland. Comes with custom Fibreglass Carrying Case, Guitar High Chair, Bracket to support the guitar when standing, table mount on back of chair to lay guitar down to tune/play standing up, books, tabs, cds. Asking $6,200. Call Darrell at 780-916-2318 39/42p
Multiple Items For Sale GREAT PRICES!!!!!! Located in Viking, AB Chop Saw & Stand $300 Electric Mower $250 Scroll Saw $120 Air Tools $200 Golf Clubs $500 Plus many more toolssome never even used! Call Victor at 587-306-3806 37/42p
Steel Seacan Storage 10ft x 40ft
3 Double Doors White. Year 2024. No Rust nor Damage
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FOR SALE
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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
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Drywall Taping/ Ceiling Texturing
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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.
Painting
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PRICING
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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: 1800-694-2609, Email: sales@switzersauction.com or Visit us @ www.switzersauction.com for Auction Dates & Details.
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Crossword
Four fire depts. respond to Ministik Bird Sanctuary fire over weekend
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Tofield, Ryley, Holden, and Viking fire departments were on scene at the Ministik Lake Game Bird Sanctuary on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17 and 18 to extinguish two separate fires.
“There is not a known cause of the fires but we're suspecting it was from human activity,” Tofield Fire Chief Kevin Moos said.
The departments were also assisted by Strathcona Fire and some of Beaver County’s pieces of heavy equipment.
“The first fire, the biggest one, was about three hectares, and the other one was a little under a hectare,” Moos said.
“We had to clear brush and because it was a ground fire, we basically had to excavate that ground up and then cool it with water. We were out there for at least 30 hours,” Moos said.
Moos cautioned the public to be extra careful when out hiking and enjoying the wilderness, especially in the current conditions.
“It is still very dry out
and we would like to remind everyone to be fire smart while taking in the beautiful scenery,” the Tofield Fire Rescue’s social media page said.
There is a current fire restriction throughout all Beaver County.
“All open-air burning, including large and small brush piles consisting of leaves and/or tree prunings used for yard cleanup, are prohibited,”
the Beaver Emergency Services Commission website says.
“Fireworks and exploding targets are also prohibited during the restriction. Fires in approved fire pits or appliances that don’t require a fire permit are still allowed.
“Residents should also exercise caution when engaging in activities that could provide an unin-
tended ignition source (welding, grinding, ATV use, etc.). Off-Highway Vehicles can start wildfires – check frequently to ensure hotspots are free of debris, and make sure mufflers and spark arrestors are working properly. Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.”
Tofield Council reappoints two library board members
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
At their regular council meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 14, Town of Tofield Council reappointed Harold Conquest and Kevin Smook to the Tofield Municipal Library board, a move made necessary as per the Government of Alberta.
“The library board applied to the provincial government for a grant,” Deputy Mayor Harold Conquest said, “and they
received word back from the provincial government that, horror of horrors, you have councillors on that board. ‘You cannot have councillors on that board; they might take the Town's interest or the County's interest first, rather than the board they sit on.’
That’s not the way we do it, as we all know. When we're on a board, we’re considering the board’s interests.
“However, they insist. So, we have to reappoint,
not Councillor Harold Conquest, not Councillor Kevin Smook, but simply the names, Harold Conquest, Kevin Smook,” Conquest said.
“So, it doesn't matter that you're actually a councillor?” Mayor Deb Dueck asked.
“It doesn't matter. But, until we do that, we're not getting the grant,” Conquest said.
Councillor Larry Tiedemann said that the province actually does allow councillors on li-
brary boards. As stated in the Alberta government’s document entitled Municipal councils and library boards: roles and responsibilities, it says, “For municipal library boards, council may appoint up to two board members who are also councillors on their council.”
Harold Conquest moved to reappoint himself and Smook to the library board until Oct. 25, 2026.
“And, in light of this, if
Fall immunizations now available
Vanessa Poitras Staff Reporter
Fall immunizations are now available in town at the Tofield Health Centre, Beaverhill Pharmacy and Tofield Pharmachoice.
Through Primary Care Alberta, immunizations can be accessed to protect from respiratory viruses for the fall season.
"When you get a vaccine (get immunized), you’re protecting yourself, your family, and the people around you from serious diseases. Without immunization, some of these diseases could cause lifelong health issues or death," as stated on the government of Alberta website.
"Respiratory illness— like influenza, COVID19, and RSV—affects the airway and lungs.
“Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and the people around you against respiratory illness," the website said.
It is recommended through Primary Care Alberta that residents
six months or older should get their influenza vaccine every year.
"Each year around the world, influenza makes 3 to 5 million people seriously ill and causes 290,000 to 650,000 deaths," the website said. Appointments can be booked online or by calling 811. Tofield
Continued from Page 2
hearing directly from residents about what matters most to them.
“Sometimes the best ideas come from casual conversations,” she said.
When it comes to the financial challenges faced by families today, Long-
botham points to the rising cost of living as a major concern. She emphasizes the importance of being “intentional and proactive with their finances,” advising families to start with realistic budgets, pay down highinterest debt, set clear goals, and take advantage of programs like the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive or the Tax-Free First Home Savings Account.
“Managing finances in
today’s economy is all about staying informed, being adaptable, and leaning on the resources available to you,” she said.
Tofield, she adds, stands out for its community spirit and the relationships that grow from small-town life.
“Tofield has a charm that’s hard to put into words — it’s the kind of place where people genuinely look out for one another,” Longbotham
said.
“Professionally, it’s also incredibly rewarding. You get to build deep relationships with clients, not just helping with their finances, but being part of their milestones and life moments.”
either of you are unsuccessful in the upcoming election, you can still sit as public at large,” Dueck
Brandt 842 8"x42' Super Charged Auger w/ Kohler 16 Hp Magnum Motor
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Holden Fire Department visits Holden preschool
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Members of the Holden Fire Department visited the Holden Little Hands Preschool which operates out of the Holden Rural Academy on Tuesday, Oct. 14. Preschool director Tammy Hill said that the months of September and October are focused on community helpers.
“It's good for them to know who the helpers are in our community, and that we've got those services. The fire department has been coming since my first year in 2023, which is really nice,” Hill said.
Holden Deputy Fire Chief Justin Ewasiuk said that in emergency situations, preschool aged children are often afraid when they see the firefighters dressed in all their gear.
“We like coming to do this because it provides the opportunity to show the kids what we do. The big thing that we focus on is showing them what we look and sound like with the full gear on so that in an emergency, they're not scared. That and if they need help, call 911,” Ewasiuk said.
The kids got to spray water from the fire hose at a stop sign target, tour the fire truck, and try on
a firefighter coat.
Hill said the children learn about fire safety in the classroom and participate in fire drills with the school. The kids also received bags from the department, which included home escape plans and other fire safety education materials for kids.
Other community services the preschool class will learn about include police, the postal service, library, and restaurants.
“We're trying to get into as many places as we can, and we're trying to do it locally. Mrs. Nicole Suchy came to visit as a farmer, and showed us different kinds of grain,
we’ve got the RCMP coming out, we’re going to see the postmistress in Holden, Lynnette Laskoski, and we’re
going to mail a letter to ourselves. We’ll probably go to the library, and Patti and Lawrence from Patti’s Place said that
they might be able to come in one day and teach the kids how to make their own fries,” Hill said.
