Proudly Serving Viking, Irma, Kinsella, Bruce, Holden, Rural Beaver County & Surrounding Areas
Wednesday, October 29, 2025 Volume 48, Issue 43
Patricia Harcourt Editor
Little ghouls and goblins are coming out for some trick or treating downtown on Friday, Oct. 31.
The fun begins at 3:15 p.m. and runs to 5 p.m. with daycare kids coming out a little earlier.
Organizer Julianna Merta said: “It warms my heart to see events like this thrive every year and watch the community come together.
“I am excited to bring this back for the third year in a row! A big thank you goes out to all
of the businesses, to our amazing community and to all who come out and enjoy it each year.
A map will be handed out so the youngsters will know what businesses will be participating.
Cloverlodge Stampede and Labreche Plumbing and Heating will be providing the hot dogs this year for the Halloweeners to enjoy across from the daycare on Main Street. Many will also visit private residences later in the afternoon and into the evening.
Last year’s event was
well attended with youngsters going into the local businesses to ask for those delicious treats.
Those who want to come out and enjoy the event are welcome to participate in what is sure to be another successful time for costumed creatures to roam the streets in their quest for yet more candy.
“Remember to hit up the Vialta Lodge and Beaver Manor after supper!” Merta reminds the trick or treaters, as well as the local residents who are waiting to hand out their treats.
Yards in the area are getting spookier and spookier as Halloween approaches on Friday, October 31.
PATRICIA HARCOURT PHOTOS
Viking Minor Hockey games have begun in earnest, as well as hockey action in general, and Sunday afternoon saw VMH’s U11Gas Kings play against Hughenden at the Carena. Their family and friends were also there to cheer them on.
Viking councillors sworn in to serve municipal Council
SUPPLIED PHOTOS
The five new members of Viking Town Council following the recent municipal elections were sworn-in to office Monday, Oct. 27. Seated, they are Councillors Cole Harasyn-O’Neill, Paul King, James Buttner, Tim Goodison and Judy Acres. The new Council will hold an Organizational Meeting on Thursday, Oct. 30 when they will elect a new Mayor and DeputyMayor, and appoint councillors to committees and organizations, as well as other duties.
Doors Open 5:30 pm Show: 8 pm
Doug Robb
Friday, February 14
COUNTRY SUPPER
Mark Hayward and Matt Henry grew up together in Madison, Wisconsin. They learned to juggle in high school, a fateful event that ultimately unleashed their unique brands of comic mayhem upon the world.
Their performing career began at local events in their hometown, before moving to New York City to hone their skills busking on the streets of the Big Apple.
Doug Robb delivers premier acoustic entertainment that transforms any venue with his 4 1/2 octave vocal rangeoften compared to legends like Steve Perry (Journey) and Sammy Hagar (Van Halen). This isn’t your typical melodic acoustic performer. Doug’s high-energy interactive shows seamlessly blend powerful original compositions with crowd favourite covers spanning rock anthems, table-tapping Irish songs, country favourites, and timeless classics. Doors Open 5:30 pm Show: 8 pm
LETTER
Dear Editor:
OPINION
TO THE EDITOR
Teachers’ job action highlights UCP’s failure of leadership and bad faith bargaining
Monday, Oct. 6 marked the first day of job action as teachers across Alberta raise serious concerns about classroom conditions and the lack of supports for students.
I stand with educators and families. This is about ensuring every child has the tools they need to succeed, and that requires real investment in our classrooms.
From the outset, the United Conservative Party has undermined the process by treating negotiations as a political contest rather than an opportunity for good-faith compromise. Instead of respecting the standard practice of confidentiality, the government rushed to the media with selective information, while simultaneously running a campaign designed to discredit teachers.
This is bargaining in bad faith. When the government enters talks with a predetermined political strategy, it erodes trust, delays solutions, and leaves students caught in the middle.
The government’s recent $200 million per month childcare subsidy announcement further illustrates this pattern. While childcare is important, the timing and messaging appear calculated to distract from the real issues facing classrooms.
That money could have reduced class sizes, hired more educational assistants, and provided the supports our students desperately need.
Albertans can see the pattern. The UCP chooses division and control over collaboration and solutions. Time and again, they create conflict instead of solving problems.
This is not an isolated incident but part of a broader approach seen across education and healthcare alike.
At its core, this isn’t about resolving disputes - it’s about consolidating control. Albertans deserve leadership that values teachers, invests in students, and bargains in good faith.
Hon. Peter Guthrie, P.Eng. MLA, Airdrie-Cochrane
News from the Legislature Jackie Lovely MLA for Camrose Constituency
Throne speech and diploma exams
Families in Alberta expect real results that make a positive difference in their lives, and that’s exactly what United Conservatives are focused on delivering. The 2025 fall legislative session is officially underway, guided by a clear direction set out in this year’s speech from the throne: protecting freedoms, supporting families, strengthening essential services, and building long-term prosperity for every Albertan.
Our government has listened to Albertans across the province who told us what matters most, that’s why this session will bring forward policies that improve classrooms, deliver better health care access, protect our communities from crime, and create jobs. It’s in line with what I heard this summer while door knocking through the Camrose Constituency.
A strong economy and respect for taxpayers are at the core of what we want to accomplish for Albertans. That’s why United Conservatives are committed to safeguarding Alberta’s economy and budget by growing the Heritage Savings Trust fund to more than $250 billion and ensuring long-term stability for our province.
As record numbers of newcomers choose opportunity and freedom in Alberta, United Conservatives are funding the infrastructure and services needed to keep pace. As our population grows, the province will pursue greater control over immigration and a more sustainable approach than what federal policies provide.
In our classrooms, this rapid growth has brought more than 90,000 new students over the last three years alone. To make sure every student can reach their full potential, United Conservatives are investing in 130 new schools and 200,000 new school spaces across the province.
Alberta’s health care system is entering a new era focused on faster access to primary care, mental health services, continuing care, and compassionate intervention. It’s an approach that puts patient outcomes first and recognizes that Albertans in every community deserve reliable care when and where they need it.
And finally, United Conservatives reaffirmed our commitment to always standing up for Alberta against federal overreach. We will continue defending Alberta’s constitutional jurisdiction and fight back against federal policies that kill jobs, make life more expensive, and threaten the prosperity of Alberta and Canada.
United Conservatives understand that we work for Albertans, and we will never lose sight of our responsibility to you. Together, we’re defending Alberta and building a province where freedom is protected, and every family can succeed.
On another note, November diploma exams will be optional for students. With instructional time in schools disrupted due to the teacher strike, the November 2025 diploma exams will now be optional for students. Students who wish to write a diploma exam may request to do so, and their school boards will accommodate the request.
The optional diploma exams apply to all schools provincewide. These exams will still take place on the currently scheduled dates. Students who choose not to write the November diploma exams can still complete their courses and graduate on time. Their final grade will be based entirely on the school-awarded mark provided by their teacher. Choosing not to write the November diploma exams will not affect a student’s ability to apply to, be accepted by, or attend post-secondary institutions after graduation.
Jackie Lovely,
~~~~~~~~~~Sales Assistant
by copyright laws and may not be used or reproduced without the expressed written consent of The Weekly Review. In addition, we reserve the right to edit, delay, and/or refuse any and all letters and other material submitted to us without notice. Submitted Letters to the Editor and Opinion columns reflect the exclusive thoughts
MLA Camrose Constituency
Holden councillors sworn in to serve on Council
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
Holden’s new councillors were officially sworn in on Monday, Oct. 27 in the Village Council Chambers. Councillor Shawn Cole nominated Carl Marsh for the position of mayor, and Councillor Alan Ramshaw and Councillor Tammy Hill voiced their agreement. No other nominations for the position of mayor were made, so Marsh was appointed mayor for the Village of Holden.
For the nomination of deputy mayor, Hill nominated Tyler Beckett, Cole nominated Ramshaw, and Marsh nominated Cole.
A secret ballot was taken, which resulted in a tie. A second vote was then taken which repeated the results. As the vote was 2-2-1, the councillor with one vote for deputy mayor was removed, which left Beckett and Cole. Another vote was taken, which resulted in Beckett being appointed deputy mayor.
Council decided to go with the status quo on the regular meeting date and time, and will continue to meet on the third Monday of each month at 6 p.m., unless the Monday falls on a statutory holiday where in that case the meeting is to be held the following day.
Council then went through all the other regular
requirements of an annual organizational meeting including appointing Banking Services and Signing Authority, Subdivision Authority, and CAO Appointments Review. As Council will attend regional council presentations and joint council orientation this week, board and committee appointments will be made at the next meeting of Council on Monday, Nov. 17.
Thank You For Your Support!
I
This
I
With heartfelt gratitude, Paul King
KARI JANZEN PHOTOS Deputy Mayor Tyler Beckett reads the official oath of office.
LEFT: The newly elected members to Holden Village Council were sworn in on Monday, Oct. 27 in the Council Chambers. L-R: Councillor Alan Ramshaw, Councillor Tammy Hill, Deputy Mayor Tyler Beckett, Councillor Shawn Cole, Mayor Carl Marsh. ABOVE: Mayor Carl Marsh reads the official oath of office.
Holden hosts family and teen Halloween dances
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
The Holden Community Hall Association in partnership with Viking Beaver FCSS and the Camrose Family Resource Centre held a family Halloween dance on Friday, Oct. 24 to provide the opportunity for local families to participate in some spooky fun. A teen dance was also held later that same evening by the Hall Association.
The hall was fully decorated with ghosts, skeletons, werewolves, zombies, and all the other typical scary beings in celebration of the spooky season.
“The family dance was a huge hit,” Hall Association member Amber Kostyk said.
“I’m not sure if it was the teachers
strike and the kids needed some time out of the house or what it was, but the family dance had over 30 adults and almost 40 kids, with everyone dressing up this year,” she said.
The family dance was free to attend and complimentary hot dogs were also served. Escape rooms and other activities were set up for the kids to enjoy.
Kostyk said the teen dance was not as well attended, with 23 kids who showed up.
“The last two teen dances haven’t had big turnouts so our board will have to discuss our hosting more in the future. Even with a smaller dance for the teens, the Community Hall Association appreciates all the support we get to help with our fundraising from the events and concession,” she said.
2025-2026 Viking Curling Club League Curling
Open League Curling
Tuesdays starting November 4th through March 2026. Enter as an individual or team. Great for beginners and experienced curlers of all ages. Contact Mike McLean @ 587-256-0135, Lindsay Klein @ 780-385-5119 or Joanne Stewart @ 780-385-0341
Super League Curling
Thursdays starting November 13th through Christmas. Two games will be played on Sunday November 16th along with a Grey Cup Party. Party is open to the public. Enter as a team, for those who want to curl a bit more competitively!
Contact Bucko at 780-385-0422
Junior League Curling
Thursdays starting November 6th from 3:30-5:00 p.m. Open to junior high and high school aged students. Contact Brian Rozmahel @ 780-385-5570 or Lindsay Klein @ 780-385-5119
New this year! Sturling Curling
Wednesdays starting November 5th at 7:00 p.m. Drop in. Two person team, limited sweeping, 6-end game. Contact Bucko@780-385-0422
*Are you a beginner that would like to try curling but not sure if you want to invest in equipment? No problem! The club has brooms and sliders available for use during games.
*Are you interested in having babysitting provided at the rink while you curl? Let us know! We will look into this if there is an interest.
AMBER KOSTYK PHOTOS
The Holden Community Hall Association in partnership with Viking Beaver FCSS and the Camrose Family Resource Centre held a family Halloween dance on Friday, Oct. 24 for local families to participate in some spooky fun.
The teen dance, hosted by the Holden Community Hall Association, brought out 23 local youth.
On Oct. 20, police received a request to check on the wellbeing of a female who was currently residing at a residence in Viking. Police spoke with the person in question, who advised she was fine. The complainant was updated.
Later that morning, police received a complaint of a theft. The complainant advised that one of his puppies had been stolen. This matter is still under investigation.
That afternoon, police responded to a disturbance at a residence in Viking. Police spoke to all the parties involved and learned it was a verbal argument. The parties were separated and warned about their behaviour.
In the early morning hours of Oct. 21, police responded to a complaint of an abandoned truck southwest of Viking. When members arrived two subjects were located sleeping in the back seat. They were advised they could not be on private property; the subjects left the area.
That afternoon, police received a complaint of a grandparent scam. The victim was contacted by an unknown male posing as her grandson. The suspect requested $6,500 in order to have her grandson released from jail. The victim attended a local business by mistake instead of the bank; thanks to the employees the victim was advised she was being scammed. A family member was contacted and assisted the victim.
That same afternoon, police received information from the parole board of a subject who has been granted a travel permit to attend a rural residence in Viking. Members were advised of the permit. The permit
WORD ON THE STREET THE
Two different grandparent scams reported to Viking RCMP in a week
was abided by, with no incidents.
That evening, police received a complaint of harassment. The complainant advised she has been receiving continuous texts from a subject and is requesting police assistance with the subject. This investigation is continuing.
On Oct. 22, police learned of a subject who had failed to attend court in Vegreville to answer to unrelated charges previously laid by Viking RCMP. A warrant for arrest was issued. Upon arrest, the subject will be facing additional charges for failing to attend court.
That same morning, police received a request from the Medical Examiner’s Office to assist with the location of a deceased’s living relative. Inquiries were
made at the senior facilities, but no one was located with any information for a next of kin. The medical examiner was updated.
Later that afternoon, police received a complaint of geese being hunted on town property. Alberta Fish and Wildlife were contacted and are continuing to investigate this matter.
On Oct. 23, a 911 hangup was received. Members were unable to contact anyone at the number provided. No emergency was located, appears to be a problem with the land line.
That same morning, police received a complaint of a theft of a licence plate from a utility trailer. A file number was provided to the complainant in order to obtain a new licence plate.
On Oct. 23, a subject attended the detachment while speaking on the phone. It was learned that the complainant was speaking with subjects who contacted him advising his grandson was arrested because he was involved in an accident and oxycontin was found in the vehicle.
The suspect requested $65,000 to bail his grandson out. Through further conversation the amount was changed to $6,500. Several different suspects were spoken to by the complainant and when police interjected posing as the grandson’s dad, the call was immediately disconnected.
On Oct. 24, police received a request from a business in Viking regarding continuous harassment against their employees. The subject Continued on Page 15
What's Happening in Our Community
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Zombies stalk Carena during first-annual walk
The First Annual Zombie Walk was held at the Viking Carena Complex’s walking trail on the afternoon of Sunday, Oct. 26. The event was sponsored by Viking Royal Purple as part of Halloween celebrations leading up to official Halloween on Friday, Oct. 31.
PATRICIA HARCOURT PHOTOS
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP
September & October
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP
BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP For Sale: Common Seed Oats, Pony Oats and Barley
October & November Open by appointment only
Open by appointment only
Serving all the farms, ranches, acreages and towns in Beaver County
Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB
Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB
Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB
Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB November
The Beaver County Chronicle
Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County
Wednesday, December 4, 2024, Volume 17, Issue 49
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Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Volume 18, Issue 43
Patricia Harcourt
Harvesting in Alberta has wrapped up for another year with Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation R.J. Sigurdson lauding it as a highly successful one.
“Hot, dry weather through late summer and into fall supported a rapid harvest pace that kept farmers working hard to ensure crops were off the fields before the weather shifted,” said Sigurdson.
He reported that some areas of the province experienced a difficult growing season.
“Most parts of the province are entering winter with dry soil conditions,” he said. “We are hopeful for above-average winter snowfall as well as the spring rains farmers need to replenish soil moisture and support crop growth in 2026.”
The agriculture minister expressed confidence in those farmers and other producers in their field, calling them “resilient, dedicated and resourceful.”
In their days on the farm, he said that “they work constantly to face challenges head-on and drive sustainable growth in our agriculture sector.”
But this year’s crop results have been pretty successful. Regionally, all areas of the province are expected to exceed their five-year average in terms of yields.
However, the Peace area was closer to average yields.
Crop quality for spring wheat, barley and canola is exceeding the five-year average, with more of the crops in the top two grades, Sigurdson noted.
In contrast, durum, oats and dry peas are all grading lower than the five-year average.
With that news, he offered congratulations to farmers “for another successful harvest.”
Sigurdson concluded: “We applaud our producers’ dedication to growing the high quality agricultural products people around the world enjoy as they gather and create memories over the food we produce right here in Alberta.”
Indeed, in Region Three in the North East of the province, which encompasses the areas around Vermilion, Camrose, Provost, and Smoky Lake, harvest was reported to 99 per cent complete in the final report of the season for the major crops.
Dry soil and repeated frosts raised concerns about the successful establishment of fall-seeded crops. Those crops are rated at 51 per cent poor, 38 per cent fair, 11 per cent good, and zero per cent excellent.
Sub-surface soil moisture is rated at 48 per cent poor, 42 per cent fair,10 per cent good and zero per cent excellent.
Province blames municipalities for election delays
George Lee Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Municipalities should accept responsibility for long queues and delayed results last week because they had “ample time” to prepare for election day, the provincial government has maintained.
New requirements were approved in the spring of 2024 and local governments should have been staffed up and ready, the office for Municipal Affairs Minister Dan Williams said in an emailed statement.
“If a municipality’s election authority was unable to come up with an effective plan, it is up to the local authority to explain to voters and candidates why long waits have developed,” the statement said.
Long lines at polling stations Oct. 20 and count delays were reported across the province. Problems were most likely in larger centres because of the volumes of votes and voters, especially in municipalities that in the past used electronic tabulators. Provincial legislative changes banned the use of the tabulators, meaning all municipalities had to count ballots by hand.
Also changed were voter identification requirements, meaning some voters had to fill out attestation
forms. Published reports blamed lineups of a half hour to two hours or more on the forms and understaffing, with some Albertans saying they were unable to cast their votes at all before polls closed.
Said the Municipal Affairs statement: “Voter attestation forms are a normal part of an election process and should not delay a properly staffed voting location.”
Some municipalities didn’t publish results until later in the week instead of the same day as polling or early the next morning.
The NDP’s new municipal affairs critic said the rules were an expensive misstep made by the UCP. Local governments were forced to pick up the tab for "ideologically driven legislation" not of their own making, said Rob Miyashiro.
The member for LethbridgeWest, Miyashiro said in an emailed statement: “The UCP’s new voting rules and ban on tabulators created long lines at polling stations, led to delayed results and downloaded millions of dollars onto municipalities.”
Changes were “a solution to a problem that didn’t exist,” the shadow minister said. “They were driven purely by ideology and need to be repealed.”
Miyashiro, a former Lethbridge city councillor, said he’s been part of efficient municipal elections.
“When I last ran, we had accurate results within an hour. This time, things were very different.”
It took three days for the mayoral and council races to be unofficially declared in Miyashiro’s southern Alberta city. Official results weren’t declared until Thursday, CTV News reported.
Lethbridge hasn’t counted its election ballots by hand since 1989, the Lethbridge Herald reported. The cost of running the election was estimated to almost double to over $650,000 this year.
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo in northern Alberta, home to the oilsands centre of Fort McMurray, also saw election costs double, to about $600,000. The Fort McMurray Today reported long lines at the ballot boxes and a count that took nearly 19 hours for first results.
Turnout of the electorate generally dropped across Alberta, typically by about 10 percentage points to one in four or five voters. The City of Lethbridge collapse was particularly dramatic at about 15 percentage points, official stats from its administration reveal. Voter turnout was just 19.35 per cent in 2025 for the city, compared with 34.88 per cent four years ago.
The St. Albert Gazette reported a drop of about five percentage points to about 30 per cent of the
Edmonton suburb’s electorate. The City of Red Deer cited a drop of nearly 10 percentage points to just over 21 per cent.
Numbers for Lacombe County — a rural community along the QE II corridor north of Red Deer — show a drop of more than 10 points in contested divisions to about 27 per cent from the historically reported number of 37.7.
In some locales, a drop was negligible or non-existent. In the Town of Taber election in southern Alberta, for example, the electorate percentage appears to have been around 29 per cent in each of the two elections.
And some municipalities may even have seen their turnout go up, based on published reports. Bucking the trend, Fort Macleod appears to have seen an increase in voter turnout of about two percentage points to nearly 38 per cent.
The minister’s office said it will examine election data. “Following every municipal election, we review our legislation and regulations to identify if any improvements need to be made.”
But Miyashiro’s statement calls on the UCP to rethink its approach to dealing with municipalities. “The government should focus on working with municipalities, not ordering them around like children,” it said.
Share your input in the 2025 ASB Gopher Impact Survey
Nerissa McNaughton Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Across the Prairies, producers know the sight all too well: mounds of freshly turned earth dotting pastures and fields. While they may seem small, these mounds signal a much larger problem lurking beneath the surface. Richardson’s Ground Squirrels, commonly known as gophers, are causing significant and costly damage to agricultural lands, and their impact appears to be growing. If you are a producer facing this challenge, your experience is important. Agricultural Service Boards (ASBs) has opened the 2025 ASB Gopher (RGS) Impact Survey to gather data from local residents and farmers.
You are encouraged to visit agriculturalserviceboards.com/ 2025-gopher-survey/ to take the survey.
One of the ways gophers have been managed since the early 1900s
is through the use of strychnine.
Although concerns over its use, as it is a neurotoxin, led to strychnine being banned in 1992, limited emergency usage was reintroduced as more effective methods to control the gopher populations had not yet been developed. As of 2024, strychnine was, once again, under a full deregistration protocol.
This, says the Government of Alberta, is unacceptable.
In an open letter posted on social media and signed by Premier Smith and Ministers Sigurdson and Schow, “Alberta’s farmers and ranchers are in crisis.” The letter notes that the federal ban was “made without consultation or solid science,” and “has left producers without viable alternatives,” leaving Albertans to face an $800+ million risk to hay and pasture.
Meanwhile, other interest groups want the ban upheld. For example, Animal Alliance of Canada, a federally incorporated non-profit organ-
ization, posted on their website: “Along with many other animal advocacy and environmental organizations across Canada, we have submitted a joint Notice of Objection to Health Canada and the Pest Management Regulatory Agency as of early May 2024. In March of 2024, Health Canada announced a ban on the use of Strychnine; this will take full effect in September 2024. Unfortunately, they decided to continue to allow the issuance and use of Compound 1080, another deadly poison. We are hoping they will reconsider this decision that continues to harm and kill many species of wildlife. (See the full statement: at www.animalalliance.ca/help-ban-poisons).
For many reasons, the ASBs RSG Impact Survey is vitally important. From landowners directly impacted by the rodents to residents concerned about wildlife and the health implications of pest control methods, everyone wants to have a say.
“The purpose of this data collection is to provide a clear and credible summary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, with the goal of encouraging timely action to support Prairie producers facing increasingly severe pest damage,” MP John Barlow, noted in a letter earlier this summer. This is not a formal scientific study. Instead, it is a practical tool for gathering municipal-level data directly from producers and other impacted persons. The survey asks for your best estimates on the impacts you've observed, and photos are also welcome. The more responses they receive, the more credible and compelling the data becomes.
Taking a few moments to share your input can contribute to a longterm solution that benefits the entire agricultural community. So, please provide your input and help shape the future of agriculture in your region.
Pres Winter honoured with park bench for Viking Bluebird Trail
Patricia Harcourt Editor
Members of ROARS, the Rural Outreach and Agricultural Renaissance Society, gathered on Friday, Oct. 24 for the unveiling of a park bench in honour of Pres Winter and his creation of the Viking Bluebird Trail. The bench was placed along the Town of Viking’s walking trail near some bluebird boxes as a special way of honouring his work.
A recognition plaque on the bench is a permanent reminder of Winter’s decades of dedication to the construction of an ever expanding Bluebird Trail, which served to attract and pre-
serve bluebirds in the area.
The society donated $2,595.26 to the Town of Viking in November 2024 with the funds to go towards ROARS’ two final initiatives, including the park bench and plaque in recognition of Winter, and remaining funds to go towards fruit trees and a community garden.
In March 2020, Winters won the Emerald Award in the Lifetime Achievement category for his Viking Bluebird Trail work and the more than 1,200 nest boxes that were built along it. It ran over a 275 mile stretch of rural road in Beaver County.
Pres and Patricia
Winter made Viking their home over the decades and raised their family here, and Pres found an avocation he would keep for many years.
He began the trail in 1977 with 200 nest boxes given to him courtesy of the John Janzen Nature Centre. From 1977 to the time of his award, he also tended and banded baby birds born in his nest boxes.
Interestingly, bluebirds don’t build their own nests and are called ‘secondary cavity nesters.’
In earlier days, these birds would take over nests abandoned by woodpeckers but clear cutting forests made this less possible. So the pop-
ulations of bluebirds went down with that of the woodpecker.
Winter has worked tirelessly to promote the
bluebird population and now he will have a permanent tribute to his life’s passion on the walking trail. The bench
sits nearby to some bluebird nest boxes, the kind he loved to make as homes for these beautiful birds.
PATRICIA HARCOURT PHOTOS
Several members of ROARS, the Rural Outreach and Agriculture Renaissance Society, attended the unveiling of the new bench and accompanying plaque for Pres Winter in honour of his decades of work building bluebird boxes on rural roads in Bever County. The plaque says “Pres Winter’s Viking Bluebird Trail 1977-2021,” which is the year Winter was recognized with an Emerald Award. From left to right are: Vern Hafso, Jan Hafso, Suzanne Jakubec, Alvin Sorenson, Brian Rozmahel, and Diane Hanson.
The photo was used by the Alberta Emerald Foundation in announcing Pres Winter’s Lifetime Achievement Award bestowed by the Foundation, and shows him tending to the bluebird boxes along the Viking Bluebird Trail.
Province passes ‘Back to School’ bill to force end to strike
Leslie Cholowsky Staff Reporter
The UCP Government introduced back to school legislation on Monday, Oct. 27 in the form of a bill it called the ‘Back to School’ Act.
Premier Danielle Smith said Monday, “This strike has gone on long enough. It’s clear there’s no path forward unless we act. The Back to School Act refocuses everyone on what matters most, the education of Alberta’s students. Bill 2 puts students back at the centre of our system, while we continue to work with teachers and families to build lasting stability in Alberta’s schools.”
The province says,”The Back to School Act legislates the terms of the September 2025 tentative
School Division reports classes to resume Wednesday, Oct. 29
agreement, which provided a 12 per cent salary increase over four years, additional market adjustments of up to 17 per cent for most teachers, and the hiring of 3,000 teachers and 1,500 educational assistants. The collective agreement will be in effect from Sept. 1, 2024, to Aug. 31, 2028.”
Minister of Finance Nate Horner said, “This is a necessary step and the most responsible decision for kids, teachers and parents. If Bill 2 is passed, it is my hope that classes will resume as soon as Wednesday, October 29.”
Minister of Justice Mickey Amery said, “We believe invoking the notwithstanding clause is a necessary measure to end the undue hardship caused by the teacher
strike. This strike has reached a point that is causing irreparable harm on student learning. Our government will not hesitate to use every available legal tool in defence of students.”
The Alberta Teacher’s Association President Jason Schilling said, “This is a sad day for teachers, this is a sad day of Albertans. To have a government that is willing to trample on your Charter rights for their own purpose is a sad thing for this government to do.”
The bill comes with a penalty - any teacher defying the back-to-work order is subject to up to a fine of $500 a day for individuals and $500,000 a day for the union.
The Battle River School Division posted a notice
Battle River School Division is accepting contracts for CARETAKING SERVICES at Round Hill School, located in Round Hill, AB.
The successful contractor will be responsible for the daily maintenance of school building contents and equipment, which are to be kept in a neat and sanitary condition, and be capable of addressing minor maintenance issues. Caretakers are responsible to keep all entryways and sidewalks clear of snow and ice in the winter months and will be required to complete a major ‘summer clean’ each year according to BRSD guidelines.
Caretakers may also be asked to respond to security alarm calls and to open/close the school building for extra-curricular or other community events.
The schedule of regular, yearly, and special duties is available upon request. Round Hill School has an enrollment of approximately 100 students in grades 1-9. Contract compensation is based on student count and school area.
Start date for this contract is December 8, 2025.
Previous experience is an asset, please provide a detailed description of your experience in your application. Please include two to three references.
Requirements
Applicants must have:
• A current WCB account number
• Insurance (minimum $5 million liability)
• WHMIS certificate
• Valid Criminal Records Check with Vulnerable Sector (to be completed and provided by contractor and all employees prior to commencing work)
For more information, please contact Jennifer Hauck, Custodial & Grounds Coordinator, at 780-672-6131 ext. 5258 or via email at jhauck@brsd.ab.ca.
Submission deadline is November 20, 2025, at 2:00 PM
Applications are to be submitted to:
Jennifer Hauck – Facilities 4724-41 Street Camrose, AB T4V 0Z6 Or via email to: jhauck@brsd.ab.ca
We thank all who apply. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.
on their website Tuesday morning: “It is anticipated that schools will reopen and classes for all students will resume on Wednesday, Oct. 29.
“Should this happen, schools will be open at regular scheduled times. Students accessing bus transportation should expect the bus to arrive at their regular stop at the regular time.”
Buffalo Trails School Division shared this with its families on Tuesday: “Today, the Government of Alberta introduced Bill 2: Back to School Act.
“If passed, this legislation will end the province-wide teachers’ strike, with our students and teachers returning to school on Wednesday, Oct. 29.
“We wanted to share this update with our
families right away. More details will be shared in a letter to families tomorrow as we re-
ceive additional information and finalize plans for a smooth return to learning.”
Voltage Electric Ltd.
Location: Lougheed, Alberta - Job Type: Full-Time - Start Date: To be determined
Voltage Electric Ltd. is a fast-growing electrical and technology solutions company serving rural Alberta. We specialize in electrical, networking, security systems, fiber optics and trenching. With a strong commitment to quality, safety, and innovation, we’re looking for a certified Journeyman Electrician to join our team.
What You’ll Do:
- Install, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical systems in residential, commercial, and agricultural settings
- Work hands-on with emerging technologies such as security systems, surveillance, networking, and fiber optics
- Read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, and technical documents
- Ensure compliance with electrical codes, safety standards and company guidelines
- Mentor apprentices and support team development
What We’re Looking For:
- Journeyman Electrician Certification (Alberta or Red Seal)
- Self-motivated, reliable, and committed to safety
- Strong problem-solving skills as well as willingness to learn new technologies and systems
- Ability to work independently and in a team setting
- Valid Class 5 driver’s license with clean abstract and clear Criminal Record Check
- Seeking candidates local to Flagstaff County area or willing to relocate
What We Offer:
- Competitive wages based on experience and qualifications
- Opportunities to expand your skills into security, surveillance and networking.
- A steady local workload with a supportive and experienced team
- A chance to make an impact in a growing company that values innovation and community
Apply today!
Send your resume and a brief cover letter to: admin@voltageab.ca
Subject Line: Journeyman Electrician Application
The residents of the Town of Viking have decorated their yards for halloween, ready to spook trick or treaters who dare knock on their doors.
It’s hockey time again with weekly game reporting
Kerry Anderson
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). Email me at kamcjm@gmail.com if your team is not getting covered.
Irma U11Female Aces (1-1-1) hosted Vermilion on Saturday, beating the visitors 13-4 led by Kit MacKay’s (4g 2a) 6-point game. Frankie MacKay got a hat trick and 4point game. Other scorers were; Hunter Holt (2g 1a), Tessa Owen (2g), Scottie Pierce (1g 1a), Brynn Kroening (1g), Bianca Piecharka (1a), and Scout MacKay (1a). Kensly Soucy got the win in goal. On Sunday Irma relinquished four thirdperiod goals to settle for a 4-4 tie at Vermilion. Hunter Holt got a hat trick, and Tessa Owen added the other goal. Assists went to; Scout MacKay, Kapri Saville, and Scottie Pierce.
Irma U13 Female Aces (2-2-0) lost a 4-0 game at Lloydminster on Friday, then defeated Wood Buffalo 11-1 at Irma on Saturday led by Harper Jackson’s (4g 1a) and Hailey Allen’s (3g 2a) 5point games. Other scorers were; Abby Larson (2g 1a), Hanna Jackson (1g 2a), Brianna Rahmoun (3a), Berkley MacKay (1g), and Charlie Child (1a). Kenzie Petersen got the win in goal.
Irma U15 Female Aces (1-1-0) beat Hughenden 6-1 on Oct. 18 at home, then lost at St. Paul 4-2 the next day. Scoring for Irma over the two games were; Brynn Newton (1g 3a), Reese Clark (2a), Cassidy Hanson (1g 1a), Eidlynn Newton (1g 1a),
Noah Soriao (2g 2a), Quinn Dance (1g 2a), Candence Hollar (1a), and Sydney Paterson (2a). Kenzie Byrne stopped 20 for the win in the first game and 26 the second.
Irma U18 Female Aces (1-0-0) shutout Lloydminster at Irma on Oct. 19 4-0. Goal scorers were; Keysha McMann (1g 1a), Raina Ganton, Jemma Gulbraa, and Reese Dallyn. Assists went to; Olena Pawliuk (2a), Jalynn Westman (2a), Lily Boe (2a), and Kylie Yates (1a). Ella Rehman got the shutout for Aces.
Irma U11 Aces (1-3-0) dropped a 20-1 home game on Friday against CNN Spurs. Grady Parsons scored for Irma,
from Bentley Lawson and Brittyn Pulyk. On Saturday, Aces lost 25-2 at Lloydminster. Quinn Tomlinson and Seth Olsen scored for Irma.
Viking U11 Gas Kings (2-2-0) hit the road and defeated Paradise Valley 15-2 on Friday led by Hayes Hafso’s 6-goal game, while Bo Hafso added four goals in a 6point game. Other scor-
ers were; Bentley Arndt (2g 1a), Reid Broadhead (2g), Kealey Dufault (1g), Jayden Hudson (1a), Nate Doucette (1a), and Bentley Gould-Jacobsen (1a). Jaime-Lynn Crocker got the win in goal. On Sunday at Viking Carena, the home team downed Hughenden 8-4. Bo and Hayes Hafso both scored four times.
Continued on Page 15
Employment Opportunity
Town of Viking Viking Carena Operator
Working under the direction of the Lead Operator, the Arena Operator is responsible for the daily operation of the Carena while on duty. This position reports to the lead operator.
Duties and Responsibilities
• High degree of personal initiative and ability to work on their own, position is casual/part time.
• Ensure cleanliness of rental spaces (Meeting rooms etc.) prior to and following rental period.
• Ice Maintenance as directed by Lead Operator.
• Always wear proper P.P.E. and follow safety protocol.
• Ensure safety and security of the facility by following all safe work procedures and report all incidents to immediate supervisor as well as completing required report forms as needed.
• Assist with special events – set up and cleanup of tables/chairs and other related equipment for facility user group activities.
• Provide excellent customer service to all users of the Viking Carena Complex while ensuring they follow the rules and regulations of the facility.
• Respond to emergencies, including evacuation alarms, medical emergencies and other safety issues.
• Skate sharpening.
• Ensuring all required paperwork (daily timesheets etc.) are completed properly.
• Help the kitchen staff during busy times – time permitting if other duties are completed.
• Other duties as assigned by the lead operator.
Qualifications
• First Aid, WHMIS, can train if needed.
• Class 5 Drivers license
• Willing to acquire Level 1 and 2 Ice Making Certificates
• Computer literacy.
Interested candidates should submit their resumes via email to info.account@viking.ca.
The position will remain open until suitable candidates are found.
$20/wk
CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
MISSING DOG
Viking, Alberta area
Large, white Maremma breed dog. Female. Answers to Molly scared of guns - ran from home
If you see her, please call 780-385-0480 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
COMING EVENTS
Sedgewick SDA Church Free Community Harvest Supper
Sunday, November 2 at 5pm Sedgewick SDA Hall
Blue sign at 42029 RR 131 SW 1-42-13 W4M Sedgewick, AB info@sedgewickadventist.ca
Flagstaff Scottish Club Annual General Meeting will be Sunday, November 23, 2025, 2pm at the Clubhouse in Sedgewick. 4402 47Ave. All interested folks are encouraged to attend. Dinner to follow. Please call Ian Malcolm for more information and to RSVP for dinner at 780-390-0096. 43/44c
COMING EVENTS
Flagstaff Players
Annual General Meeting
Thursday, Nov. 6 at 6:30 p.m. Sedgewick Community Hall All are welcome! 43/44c
GALAHAD LIONS CLUB ANNUAL FALL HAM SUPPER
Sunday Nov 9th
Galahad Agriplex 5 to 7 pm
43/44c
Budding Ideas & Paw Prints in Killam, AB invites you to their Christmas Open House
Saturday, November 8 10am - 5pm Sunday, November 9 12 - 4 pm 5008 - 50 St., 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.
FOR SALE
Steel Seacan Storage 10ft x 40ft, 3 Double Doors White. Year 2024. No Rust nor Damage. Original Owner. Seacan condition will compliment all Yardsites Located: Lamont / Bruderheim $9,800. Ph: 780 940 2984 39/51p
WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzymes injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 250. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. albertasprucetrees.com.
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.
½ Section Pastureland NE 35 & NW 36-41-10-W4 located south of Hardisty in the Battle River valley at RR 101 & TWP RD 420. Fenced, cross-fenced, mix of seeded and tame grass with large dug-out, pumping system, full power on site with gravel revenue. Call Mike Golka REMAX River City 780-914-9889 MLS#’s E4447511 & E4447499 tfnc
SERVICES
Drywall Taping/ Ceiling Texturing
Experienced Killam drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job, big or small. Don't want to do it yourself? Give me a call! Murray Cholowsky Flagstaff Taping & Texturing Call or text at 780-385-1251
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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.
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
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PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. 403-543-0927; www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
———————————————— 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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CAUGHT YOU LOOKING STOP BY YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER OFFICE TO PLACE AN AD!
PRICING
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers
16,000 readers
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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Leave the tanks at home.
Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators Convert the air around you into medical grade oxygen. At just under 3 lbs, Inogen lightweight and compact portable oxygen concentrators easily deliver your prescription oxygen on-the-go Call Us Now. 1-833-997-1719 ————————————————
Say “NO” to cleaning out your Eavestroughs. Protect your home with LeafFilter. Call now 1-888-483-0274. Use Promo Code: 285 to get 20% Off your entire purchase
CLASSIFIEDS
NOTICES. EVENTS. ANNOUNCEMENTS. THANKS. MEMORIALS. SALES. RENTALS. REAL ESTATE. GIVE AWAYS. & MORE!
SERVICES
Transform Your Bathroom and Change Your Life. SafeStep Walk-In Tubs or Walk-In Showers For your FREE Information Kit and Our Senior Discounts, Call Toll-Free 1-866-922-0705
WANTED
WANTED OLD ADVERTISING: Dealership signs, service station, gas pumps, globes, oil cans, Red Indian, White Rose, Buffalo, Husky, Ford, GM, Dodge, Tire signs, Coke, Pepsi, etc. Call 306-221-5908.
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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
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.
SENIORS SPECIAL! 10% MORE ON ALL CASH PAYOUTS. SILVER Coins, Canadian Coins, GOLD coins, chains, rings...We buy them ALL! Silver flatware, tea sets, all things silver, Canadian Mint sets. We come to the privacy of your home, no fees! Call Joy or Ted 1-825-966-4373.
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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!
Crossword
Word on the Street
Continued from Page 7
was identified and located; police spoke with the subject and issued a warning regarding the actions and possible consequences.
Later that morning, police received an animal complaint. The complainant advised her cat was found deceased.
The complainant advised it appears the animal was shot; the complainant did not want to have the animal examined by the vet. Police have no suspects at this time.
That afternoon, police received a request to locate a subject in Viking.
The complainant from a local business advised a subject attended their business and did not have enough money to pay for their pur-
chase. The suspect left his driver’s licence stating he would return to pay the remaining amount.
The complainant stated the subject did not return and requested police attempt to locate him and advise him to attend the business and pay the outstanding balance.
Members have been unsuccessful in locating the subject.
Later that afternoon, police received a complaint of a theft from a local business. The complainant advised a male attended the store and took some personal property along with a small display item.
The complainant did not want to proceed any further due to the minimal value of the property.
On Oct. 25, police responded to a complaint of an aggressive dog.
The complainant advised his neighbour’s dog was outside and
being aggressive; he was unable to work in his yard with he dog outside. Police attended the subject’s house and requested the dog be taken inside.
On Oct. 26, police received a request from Child and Family Service to conduct a wellbeing check on a family residing in Viking.
Police were able to locate a family member who confirmed they have been in contact with the family. Child and Family Services was updated.
Minor hockey report
Continued from Page 11
Reid Broadhead and Harper Amundson picked up assists. Tanner Docksteader got the in in goal.
Irma U13 Aces (3-0-0) beat CNN Spurs 10-4 at Irma on Saturday, then went to Lloydminster and downed the home team 11-4. Scoring over the weekend were; Jeremiah Beer (4g 4a), Logan Leskow (3g 1a),
Nashtyn Pulyk (2g), Macoy Tomlinson (2a), Abel Whitten (2a), Sawyer Newton (1g), Ethan Verreth (1a). Jace Christensen got the win at home. The Lloydminster scoresheet wasn’t entered for Sunday’s game at deadline.
Viking U13 Gas Kings (4-0-0) beat Cold Lake 63 on Saturday in Mannville and then went to Onion Lake and beat the home team 5-2.
Sunday’s scoresheet wasn’t entered but on Saturday there were six different goal scorers;
Conley Docksteader (1g 1a), Peyton Bird, Easton Moren, Stetson Shepley, Gage Olson and Grayson LeBlanc. Liam Doucette was credited with an assist. Taylen Place got the win in goal.
Irma U18 Aces (1-3-0) lost two 5-2 games over the weekend - Saturday at Provost and Sunday at home against Kitscoty. Scoring over the weekend were; Emmit Fleming (2g 1a), Hollis Martens (1g), Zachary Oracheski (1g 1a), Trace Fuder (1a).
IRMA NEWS
By Marjorie Lawson
Congratulations to Tom Fortier and Jamie Ford who were married at the farm on Saturday.
IRMA NEWS
We extend our sympathy to Netta Greening on the passing of her brother, Rex, in Newfoundland. We were saddened to hear of the passing of Richard Haun on the weekend at the age of 78. We send sincere condolences to his wife, Joyce, daughter Sherry (John) and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to an 80th birthday party at Kinsella Hall on Saturday, Nov. 22 for Faye Lien. Please RSVP to daughter Carrie.
The annual Remembrance Day service will be held at the school on Nov. 11. Lunch following the service will be at the New Horizons. Remember to come out and support your local fire department at the Fireman’s Ball on Saturday, Nov, 8 at the community hall.
Buy Canadian should fund Canadian jobs and news, not U.S. Big Tech
A Message from Canada’s news publishers
To the Government of Canada,
We applaud the Government of Canada’s ambition to build Canada strong, and commitment in the forthcoming Budget to Buy Canadian
Last year, the federal government including agencies and Crown corporations spent over $100 million on advertising. Most of it went to U.S. Big Tech.1
Why are we funding American tech monopolies that extract tens of billions a year out of Canada -- largely untaxed -- at the exp ense of local journalism and culture, and whose platforms have become vectors for division and disinformation?
Let’s reinvest our ad dollars in Canada. In Budget 2025, the Government of Canada should follow Ontario’s lead and set aside a minimum of 25% of its advertising budgets for Canadian news media.
At no additional cost to taxpayers, the government can support local jobs while getting its message out in a brand safe environ ment. Far fewer Canadians trust ads on Facebook an d Instagram than those published by Canadian news media. 2
Buying Canadian advertising in Canadian news media is both the right and smart thing to do.
Respectfully, Canada’s news publishers
The Weekly Review; Eric & Ally Anderson; Kerry, Michelle, Brennan, Garrett Anderson; Patricia Harcourt; Dustin & Alie Moroz; Gerard & Dolly Wadley; The Review; Eric & Anderson; Kerry, Michelle, Brennan, Garrett Patricia Harcourt; Dustin & Alie Moroz; Gerard &
a Minimum $5 cash or food donation
Over $3,000 raised last year! Over raised last
Add your name with a Minimum cash or donation in Viking (Mon, Wed, Fri) or mail donation to: Box 240, Viking, AB T0B 4N0. Cheque payable to ‘Viking Christmas Cheer’ Cash or Cheque only. Stop by The Weekly Review in Viking (Mon, Wed, Fri) or donation to: Box 240, Viking, AB T0B 4N0. Cheque to ‘Viking Christmas Cheer’
IT’S NEVER TOO
NEVER
TO
THOSE
Caribou Publishing papers raised nearly $30,000 in 2024 for Local Food Banks at Christmastime!
Caribou Publishing papers raised nearly $30,000 in for Banks at
