Tofield Mercury April 1, 2020

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Wednesday April 1, 2020 Vol. 102 Issue 31

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Kurek hosts virtual town hall meeting to discuss COVID-19

Tofield FCSS will continue its Meals on Wheels program: Radley

Tofield, Ryley, and Holden fire departments attend to structure fire

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W e want our

employees safe, says Dave Sr. Moush John Tofield Mercury

Tofield IGA’s Dave Hare Sr. shows off some of the cleaning products that’s being used by his staff to keep up with the cleanliness standard during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MOUSH JOHN PHOTO

It has been quite the week for Tofield’s only grocery stop – IGA. Owner Dave Hare Sr. has been hustling with his team ever since the COVID-19 pandemic breakout to provide community with all the essential items and trying to follow stipulated guidelines by Alberta Sobey’s besides any other provincial mandatory rules.

However, it’s been a challenge for his team of workers as customers sometimes forget the “social distancing” norm of six feet or two metres in place at the moment.

“We’ve put up plexi shields and marked spots for them, but despite that we see some of our customers not obeying the six-feet rule,” Hare Sr. said. “We want to make sure that our employees are safe, and our customers. If any of our staff

falls sick, or tests positive for the virus, it will be pretty bad as a lot of our elderly population depends on getting their groceries from here.”

To accommodate the seniors, IGA now devotes the first hour of the day, seven days a week for them – 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. is when the elderly can go and shop without much crowd around them.

“We have been trying to make our environment as clean and safe as possible,” Hare Sr. added.

“There’s disinfectants, bleach water and tissues; counters, sliding doors; and carts are being wiped down frequently. Furthermore, our employees are wearing gloves; washing hands as often as they need to; and also maintaining the social distancing rules mandated by Sobey’s.”

With the grocery and produce sales reaching its Continued on Page 7

Page 2 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 1, 2020

MP Damien Kurek hosts virtual town hall meeting to discuss COVID-19 Leslie Cholowsky Staff Reporter

Taking into account social distancing and restrictions on public gatherings, Battle RiverCrowfoot MP Damien Kurek held a virtual town hall meeting via social media on Wednesday, March 25.

“It’s been a heavy couple of weeks for people in this constituency and people across Canada,” he said at the start of his broadcast.

Kurek expressed his thanks to all essential workers remaining on the job.

“Two weeks ago we could not have imagined our country virtually shut down,” Kurek said.

He urged listeners to practice good hygiene, to reduce contact with others; “If we can reduced the spread, flatten the curve, we can save lives.

“I encourage you to maintain social distancing.”

Kurek said the pandemic has had a devastating effective on the county, citing an unbelievable one million new Employment Insurance applicants, “And that was a few days ago,” calling it “unbelievable.”

Kurek gave a shout out to his constituency office staff, who have been hard at work, even with the doors closed to the public, on the telephone and emails, “Pointing people in the right direction.”

Kurek also praised the hardworking MLAs within the Battle RiverCrowfoot region, “As well as our cities, towns, and counties who are working very hard for residents at this time.”

Kurek addressed travellers, asking those residents currently at home to respect travel restrictions in place. “If you are abroad, please get home.

If you are overseas please register with Global Affairs Canada. If needed there are emergency loans available to help you get home if you are stuck.”

He praised measures taken by the government to expand Employment Insurance (EI) benefits, to increase GST rebates, and

Litwin Laff's

Child Benefits. “There are even more measures to come.” He said that he was happy with expanded EI benefits especially to those who may not have been eligible for benefits in the past, including self employed individuals.

Kurek praised the provincial government for introducing measures to small business, like deferring education property tax, reducing or deferring Workers Compensation fees, and compensating doctors for telephone consultations with patients, as well as emergency isolation support payments, supports for employer.

“The best source of information on provincial programs is alberta.ca/COVID-19,” Kurek said, adding that constituents were welcome to reach out to his office for information on

how to access more information or applications.

“We are in the midst of very, very challenging times,” Kurek said, referring to mental health stress and financial stress facing many Canadians, adding, “As Canadians, we are tough, and I would encourage you to not lose hope in the midst of this, because if we can stick together, if we can be creative in the way that we support our local businesses, we can get through this and come out the other side strong as Canadians, and ready to get things back to normal.

“I encourage you to make sure you don’t lose hope in the midst of this crisis.”

Kurek then fielded questions posted by listeners.

He responded a query about the Conservative Party’s process to find a

new leader, saying he has been following the process closely to make sure it is done in a way to follow the will of all 121 member MPs. “Andrew [Scheer] is leading with strength in the midst of this, and I have no concerns about his ability to do so.”

Kurek addressed concerns of listeners about those not following stayat-home rules, saying, “It is absolutely fundamental that everyone who can stay at home does so, to allow those who must go out to do so safely. It’s up to us to do our part, as part of our rights and responsibilities as citizens.

“It’s so important to take our responsibilities seriously. Stay at home.

Social distance.” He said his family is taking selfisolation seriously, that he is trying to lead by example.

Continued on Page 7

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 1, 2020 - Page 3

Meals on Wheels program continues unabated through COVID-19 pandemic Moush John Tofield Mercury

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected most businesses and programs, but with some “amazing” volunteers, Tofield-Ryley-Beaver County West (TRBW) Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) has been able to keep their Meals on Wheels program running.

FCSS Director Tracey Radley has been touched by the Tofield Lodge staff and its volunteers.

“Thanks to our wonderful volunteers and the Tofield Lodge staff, TRBW FCSS has been able to maintain our Meals on Wheels program even through this difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Radley said.

With support from provincial and municipal governments, all services are available at minimal or no charge to residents.

“To help mitigate the potential spread of the virus, our office is closed to the public, but we are

here taking calls, and kindly ask that customers call our team at 780-662-7067 for assistance,” Radley requested. “All counselling sessions will be conducted over the phone, with clients being contacted weekly.”

According to Radley, this is the “new normal” but her team is doing everything possible to assist all their clients in the best possible way.

“Our Community Volunteer Income Tax program is still running with some modifications. Although we cannot accept income taxes in person at the moment, we are working to accept documents in alternate ways such as email, fax or mail,” Radley added.

“We’ve two wonderful volunteers who are assisting us with this.”

Continued on Page 4

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Page 4 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 1, 2020

FCSS services available to community Continued from Page 3 With the deadline for filing being pushed back to June 1, 2020 by the federal government, all the FCSS clients who do not have alternate means to get income tax details to the local office would be able to do so.

“We request all our clients wanting to avail of this program to contact our office at 780-662-7067 to discuss alternate arrangements to accept documents,” she said.

“We will continue to provide updates as and when we receive information, and we strive to make sure our clients’

needs are being met. We have created a helpful numbers document to share with our community members who may need to access these numbers, and have shared it across various platforms.

FCSS will continue to share any relevant details regarding COVID-19 from both the Government of Alberta and Government of Canada through different online and other platforms.”

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Structure fire south of Holden engages all three area fire departments Cpl. Sheryl Cody Tofield RCMP

Tofield RCMP responded to a total of 32 calls for service last week.

On the afternoon of March 24, Tofiled RCMP received a complaint of a theft of laptop from Guardian Drugs. Due to the surveillance footage and the assistance from numerous members of the public, members were able to identify the thieves quickly. As they do not live locally, warrants of arrest have been obtained. This file is still under investigation.

During the early morning hours of March 26, Tofield RCMP received numerous complaints from a rural property on Rge. Rd. 210. The caller indicated that there were three to four people in

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members were dispatched to an open 911 line to a residence on 52A Street in Tofield. There was no answer on call back by the dispatcher.

Members attended and witnessed a male laying on the floor of the residence unresponsive. EMS attended the residence and transported the male to the Tofield Health Centre for treatment.

Tofield RCMP responded to a suspicious persons complaint in Holden on March 27 around 9 p.m. There had been several complaints of a male and female hanging around the lodge looking into vehicles. The pair were located and both found to have warrants for their arrests out of Edmonton and Fort Saskatchewan RCMP detachments. Both were arrested and subsequently released to appear for court in their respective jurisdictions.

On March 28, there was a report of a break-andenter to a rental property located on Twp. Rd. 490 and Rge. Rd. 161. The Continued on Page 5

Tofield and Area Church Directory

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their vehicle and residence bothering them.

Members attended and did not locate anyone on the property or in the residence at that time. Another call was received by 911 with the same person stating that they were chasing people with a machete and they had stabbed one of the people who was now laying in the bed. Members attended again and apprehended the severely intoxicated complainant under the mental health act. A thorough search was done of the property and no other people were located, there was also no evidence of anyone being stabbed or injured.

On March 26, at 1 p.m., RCMP were dispatched to a structure fire south of Holden. Tofield, Holden, and Ryley Fire Departments all attended and assisted with a barn fire which had spread to a stack of round bales. There were no animals in the barn at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported. The fire is not considered to be suspicious.

During the early morning hours of March 27,

Tofield Alliance Bardo Lutheran Church Because of COVID-19 our Church Pastor - Calvin Andringa

Sunday Worship - 10:00 am • Sunday School • Life Groups • Youth Group • Music & Worship • Senior Activities 780-662-2762 • 5907 - 49 Street

church facility is closed until further notice.

Worship resources can be accessed online @

Salem Mennonite Church 49232 Rge Rd 184 Tofield, AB

Pastor Mark Loewen 780-662-2365

www.bardolutheranchurch.weebly.com Sunday service available online

Pastor Kevin Langager

at: www.salemmennonite.ca

Holden United Church Tofield Community Church ALL SAINTS UKRAINIAN Tofield United Church Pastor Ken Stumph 780-662-3166 ORTHODOX CHURCH

Phone: 780-336-2583 Cell: 780-385-4900 Box 296, Viking, AB T0B 4N0 Dealer for Brett Young Forage Seed

5402-53 St. Camrose, AB Due to COVID-19 in-person worship All programs and in person services are cancelled at this time.

Parish Priest Father Slawomir Lomaszkiewics services have been suspended.

Please listen online to our recorded Online services will take place and can 780-632-2078 be listened to on the phone. For login Service at 10:30 am Sundays on our OUR SERVICES HAVE BEEN CANCELLED website; www.tofieldchurch.com. info please call: 780-662-3471 or We are streamlining live liturgy services We will continue to pray for all our email: beaverpastoralcharge@gmail.com on Sundays @ 8:50 am on

Rev. Adam Hall

community as we remain strong and trust in our Heavenly Father.

http://www.uocc-we.ca/

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 1, 2020 - Page 5

Loose Ends: Grey is the new blonde

Carol Livingstone Tofield Mercury Columnist

Grey has become the latest best loved hair colour. Most notable are the actresses, musicians and other arty types who

have chosen to go au naturel or dye their hair grey. Who would have thought that I’d finally be in fashion?

Even forty-somethings and younger are going grey, claiming they just got tired of constantly needing a touch up or were concerned about the chemicals involved with being a blonde, redhead or brunette. The old saying, ‘blondes have more fun’ could be changing to ‘greys have more grace’ or ‘silvers are sexier.’ I

doubt that bombshell blondes like Pamela Anderson and Gwen Stefani will ever fade to grey, even when they are of an age where titanium or gunmetal would look more natural than platinum. But anything’s possible.

I was surprised to learn that five years ago style writers began declaring that grey is the new blonde and last year hair colouring manufacturers crowned silver as the colour of the year. I

missed both announcements entirely but then, I seldom read magazines with ‘fashion’ or ‘style’ in their titles. Even hair style books at the hairdressing salons fail to tempt me, probably because I’m too cheap to spend over $20 to colour my hair and too lazy to do it myself. Also too chicken; with my luck I’d end up with hot pink, burnt orange or scorched scarlet tresses – or completely bald. I see bald and beautiful women on

TV but am convinced that I’d never be one of them. But that isn’t why I’ve stayed away from dying my hair – honest. I really am just cheap and lazy.

Besides, what goes around comes around and everything old becomes new again (proof is the return of the bushy afro) so it was only a matter of time before grey hair ousted the blonde bunch. And only time will tell if the trend is a sticker or if it will be

prove to be nothing more than a flash in the bathroom sink. As a rule, women are particular, and proud, of their crowning glory so who knows how soon it will be before the newly greys will look in their mirror and think, OMG! I look so old! What was I thinking? Which is when the naturel girls have the last laugh – we’ve always known that going grey is the best way. None of us could compete with Pamela or Gwen anyway.

RCMP report Continued from Page 4 chain had been cut off of the gate, the house was a seasonal residence and was not inhabited at the time of the offence.

The door to the residence was pried open and only food and alcohol were taken. This file is still under investigation.

Members were called to a family dispute in Ryley on the afternoon of March 28. The suspect was having a psychotic episode after refusing to take their medication and was threatening to assault family members.

Members attended and located the subject of complaint, they were apprehended under the Mental Health Act and transported to a medical facility for treatment.

On March 28, there was a report of a residential break-and-enter on a rural property north of Holden that happened sometime between the middle of November to the middle of March. A 1994 Polaris Quad, a 2017 Prowler Travel Trailer, and numerous tools were stolen from a shed.

A report of a stolen truck was reported on March 29 from Dodd’s Coal Mine. Sometime during the night hours, unknown suspects entered the property and made off with a white Ford F250 truck. The vehicle was used only on site and also had a submersible pump in the box which was also taken. This file is still under investigation at this time.

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Page 6 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 1, 2020

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Opinion

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UN Security Council seat?

EDITORIAL Kerry Anderson Tofield Mercury Publisher

Prior to the COVID19 outbreak, PM Trudeau was off on an international charm campaign trying to secure (bribe) leaders in African nations to vote for Canada to fill a two year non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

The Trudeau campaign involved Canada giving aid to one country’s oil industry if you can believe. Why Africa?

That continent is where over one-quarter of the UN General Assembly’s votes come from.

Well, during the Coronavirus pandemic the Trudeau government has given out another $50 million in foreign aid and according to some this is an area Canada needs to continue spending more on to secure votes for the Security Council.

But why? The UN Security Council must be of huge benefit for the Canadian people right? Otherwise, who said it was okay to spend our tax money in this manner? Let’s explore.

The UN Security Council has five permanent members (China, France, Russian Federation, United Kingdom, and the United States), and 10 non-permanent members which serve two-year teams.

The non-permanent members can bring up resolutions but they can be vetoed by the permanent members at any time.

Presently the following “powerhouse” countries are on the non-permanent list; Belgium, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Germany, Indonesia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, South Africa, Tunisia, and Vietnam.

Apparently, Canada wants to replace one of these vital international go-getters when their terms are up, but are vying for the honour against tough competitors Norway and Ireland which combined have less

Published Wednesday of each week by: The Tofield Mercury 5312 - 50 Street P.O. Box 150, Tofield, AB T0B 4J0 Ph: (780) 662-4046 Fax: (780) 662-3735 news.tofield@gmail.com

than a third of Canada’s population.

More than 50 countries have never been on the UN Security Council in its 75-year history. Five are rotated each year, voted on by the UN General Assembly which includes all 193 countries in the UN. The United Nations and off-shoot Security Council was formed after World War II by the victors of war. It replaced the failings of the League of Nations, but has followed with its own

failings as illustrated by its main objective which is to ensure world peace and security. Russia and China involved in securing world peace? France a victor of WWII? It just doesn’t make sense to work so hard and spend so much taxpayer money just for the prestige of sitting at the same table as the decision makers, who also coincidently own much of the world’s nuclear weapons.

So, besides spending our money on foreign

aid, and now almost $2 million more on the campaign including travel and gifts for foreign leaders, this effort is costing a ridiculous amount.

Marc-Andre Blanchard, Canada’s ambassador to the UN, says it is in Canada’s interest to be as relevant as we can in the world. To some, sitting at the same table as these powerful countries for two years can be beneficial in creating goodwill if nothing else.

However, making

under the table deals and bribing countries like Congo, South Sudan, Kenya, and Tanzania – with all their human rights issues and even suspected war crimes – is far less than noble.

Would a righteous organization have a system in place where this type of bribing was necessary to begin with? Is anything that tainted, ever really worth it? To whom is this underhandedness okay, even if the end means are in fact good? Not me.

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Beaver County peace officers given authority to enforce public health orders Patricia Harcourt In the age of COVID-19, Beaver County's Community Peace Officers now have the authority to enforce public health orders and issue fines for violations.

The extra authority applies to law enforcement agencies in Alberta as of March 25. After amendments to the Procedures Regulation under the Provincial Offences Procedures Act, community peace officers as well as police will be able to issue tickets to enforce COVID-19 public health orders.

And the fines are substantially increased from $100 per day maximum to a prescribed fine of $1,000 per occurrence for violating an order.

Courts will be able to fine up to $100,000 for a first offence and up to $5,000 for each additional offence regarding more serious violations.

The new measures were discussed at a special teleconference meeting of Beaver County Council March 26, with Community Peace Officer Rick Ells in attendance.

Ells and fellow Community Peace Officer Trent Kenyon have been

given some authority as the province cracks down on people not following the COVID-19 guidelines for keeping safe from the coronavirus. Things as simple as keeping a two-metre physical distance from other people or congregating when it is illegal to do so.

"Changes are coming forward," said Ells. "We can receive a complaint from the office of somebody not following the orders (and) we have to investigate."

To keep them safe, the officers need to have protective equipment such as masks and gloves. Ells said the two officers have three pairs of masks and gloves on hand but are getting more in stock.

"We will end up having to go into people's homes or large gatherings," he said. "We have enough supplies to protect both of us at these short time frames."

Ells said the officers are waiting for more instructions from the Alberta Solicitor-General. "I'm not sure how far they are going with this," he said.

But ratepayers will be able to complain about anyone contravening provincial orders. Already the

province has received 1,100 complaints, he said.

He has put in a request for more protective supplies, including a full plastic shield for each of their two patrol vehicles, and a protective suit would also be a welcome addition.

"The chief medical officer of health has the full cooperation of community peace officers and local policing to ensure Albertans comply with orders," said Minister of Justice and Solicitor General Doug Schweitzer.

"Albertans' health is and will always be our top priority and we will use all necessary enforcement measures to ensure Albertans take this situation seriously by self-isolating and limiting mass gatherings."

Public health orders that are subject to fines include: • Mandatory self-isolation for 14 days after returning from outside Canada, plus another 10 days from the onset of symptoms, whichever is longer; • Mandatory self-isolation for anyone with COVID-19 symptoms for a minimum of 10 days from their start, or until they are resolved, whichever is longer. Symptoms include cough,

fever, shortness of breath, runny nose or a sore throat; • A close contact of a person or persons with COVID-19 must go into mandatory self-isolation for 14 days from the date of exposure, plus another 10 days from the onset of symptoms, whichever is longer; • Limiting mass gatherings to no more than 15 people; • No access allowed to public recreational facilities, private entertainment facilities, bars and nightclubs; also barred are close contact businesses like hair salons, chiropractors, etc., dine-in restaurants and non-essential retail services.

• Visitation to long term care and other continuing care facilities limited to essential visitors only.

"Self-isolation orders are not suggestions or guidelines," said Premier Jason Kenney. "They are now the law and they must be followed. Anyone putting their families, their neighbours, or other Albertans at risk will face consequences."

Important measures include selfisolating, practicing physical distancing and helping those who are selfisolating, he said.

Split council vote calls on province to drop new policing model Patricia Harcourt Division 1 Councillor Kevin Smook persuaded two other councillors that the new provincial police costing model should be dropped to give municipalities a financial break.

This wold help to offset the province's request that municipalities set rates for non-residential property taxes but delay collecting them for six months.

After announcing an increase to the 2020 education requisition, the province has backtracked due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, education tax rates for this category are

going to be frozen at last year's levels.

The government expects municipalities to set education property tax rates on non-residential taxes as they normally would, but defer collection for six months, explained Smook, at a March 24 meeting. The Minister of Municipal Affairs also suggested municipalities defer collection of municipal taxes on non-residential properties.

"We're fighting a losing battle here," said Smook, calling on the province to drop its new policing model to cut municipalities some financial slack.

Although council asked for information on the impact these

announcements will have on the county, the details of the tax deferral program were not known as of the next special meeting on March 26.

At that meeting, Assistant CAO Margaret Jones said there was "no new information," adding she believed more information might be forthcoming the next week.

Smook explained that his concern was that "we are obligated to forward the requisition whether or not (nonresidential property taxpayers) pay or not."

He put forward a motion for the province to cancel the new police costing model and provide that

municipalities won't have to pay the province until the municipality is paid the non-residential education property tax.

"We need help If we have to send money in from taxes we don't actually have," he said, even with the requisition left the same as last year. "We're still behind the eight-ball."

Councillor Barry Bruce (Division 4) agreed, stating the crime statistics in Beaver County have improved over the last year, making the new police model which would have added 300 new officers in the province not as urgent.

See POLICING BCC2

2 - Beaver County Chronicle, April 1, 2020

Reeve to write politicians about school closures Patricia Harcourt Beaver County Council agreed at a March 24 teleconference meeting to take an official position on the Battle River School Board's decision regarding Holden and Ryley schools by writing a letter to the education minister.

The school board had decided March 19 to close the Holden elementary school and send its students to Ryley.

The Ryley High School is also slated for closure with those students going to either Tofield or Viking. The school building in Ryley would remain open to house a K-9 school composed of Ryley and Holden area students.

Division 4 Councillor Barry Bruce said that this was just the start for the closing of local schools in the county.

Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) echoed Bruce's concerns that Viking could be the next school on the "hit list," based on student numbers.

BRSD has "hit hard" in Beaver County, he said, noting the school board "probably hasn't discussed which students will go where," and predicted "we will lose kids to other school divisions."

Hrabec said he "expects whole families to move" out of the area, based on conversations with parents affected by the decision.

"I think this is a bit of a wake up call," said Councillor Kevin Smook (Division 1), speaking of schools in Viking, Ryley and Tofield. "We need more schools and more money.

"I understand parents are upset but

Policing Continued from BCC Front

The county, like many other smaller or rural municipalities, is expected to pay into the new policing fund.

"I think at this time with the financial constraints everyone is experiencing I whole heartedly agree (the province) should eliminate the police costing model," he said However, Councillor Dale Pederson (Division 5) did not agree.

Although "everyone's concerned about (having) boots on the ground" locally. But he felt that even if the new police officers go to the larger centres instead of places like Beaver County, it could still benefit this rural area to a degree.

Peterson said he would vote for the motion if the part about wanting the police costing model cancelled was deleted.

And Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) asked Jones: "Are we making a statement we might regret? …I want to know what information there is coming (before he decides)."

"It will be next week before we get any details," replied Jones.

To that, Hrabec said he agreed with

the way is not to pull kids out (of school), he said, as this would affect enrolment numbers.

"Has anyone been talking to the MLA?" he said, referring to Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely. "We should be talking to her, that's why she was elected."

Hrabec said Lovely was going to speak to the education minister about the closures before the school board voted, but the COVID-19 epidemic took over the agenda for the province.

After the vote went against Beaver County schools, Kallal said Lovely told him she was "disappointed" in the decision.

Meanwhile, Hrabec said he had wanted to do follow ups with the MLA and education minister but they were then too busy dealing with the pandemic. With classes cancelled, he said, the education minister "must also look to getting students graduated."

But he added: "I think it is in poor taste to close the schools now."

Bruce agreed. "Everything has been postponed, I don't see why the decision to close the schools can't also be postponed." It would "give people the opportunity to voice their displeasure."

That opportunity "has all been taken away by this virus," he said, suggesting the school board reconsider its decision and defer it until September.

"I think it would be the right thing to do."

Council agreed on a motion by Bruce that the letter to the MLA and minister would come from the Reeve.

Pederson on deleting the cancelling of the police costing model from the motion.

Reeve Jim Kallal (Division 2) noted: "We're already sending a letter regarding the school (closure) issue (but) I do certainly totally agree with the comments of Councillor Smook."

"I think they need to hear from us," said Smook, before making his official motion. "We're here to advocate for Beaver County…We're sending a letter based on the information we had at the time."

Hrabec requested a recorded vote to the following motion by Smook: " I move that Beaver County send a letter to MLA Lovely, Municipal Affairs Minister Madu and Minister of Justice Schweitzer requesting that the provincial government cancel the new police costing model for 2020, and that the province make a provision that the education property tax for non-residential be forwarded to the province once it has been collected by the municipality."

The motion carried 3-2 with Smook, Kallal and Bruce in favour and Hrabec and Peterson opposed.

"The policing thing," said Kallal, "…has been a bit of a heartburn on Beaver County."

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Beaver County Chronicle, April 1, 2020 - 3

Council changes policy on dust control Patricia Harcourt Ratepayers in Beaver County must now pay 100 per cent of the product that the county will use to apply a dust control application this year.

But county council didn't have the heart to enact the rest of the proposed bylaw change. That would have increased the ratepayer's costs to also include truck and grader time starting in 2021, and the full cost recovery amount starting the following year.

With the change in the economy, the policy agreed to by council in February didn't seem appropriate in this time of fiscal restraint.

Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) took the lead in the policy revision March 24 by stating that he wanted to see "how this year goes" in terms of costs before phasing in the other two years of the February policy.

"I want to get the real cost of how it will be," he said. "We need to ensure that we're getting the right numbers."

He suggested implementing the first year then reviewing the policy and discuss it before deciding about the rest.

But Councillor Barry Bruce (Division 4) felt the best way forward was to roll out the three year

program. He said that trying to get an accurate reading of costs would be difficult because 2020 is not a normal year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Division 1 Councillor Kevin Smook agreed. "I'm fine with implementing it," from 2020 to 2022 when he said the county would get "full cost recovery" for dust control.

But Reeve Jim Kallal (Division 2) replied: "We are getting full cost recovery on the product," adding he still wondered about application costs based on grader time usage (phase 2 in 2021).

"This is quite a burden on the taxpayer," he said, noting that "the county's commitment is to the roads." He favoured removing the second and third year in the policy.

Division 5 Dale Pederson favoured passing it with all three years of fee for services included.

"It saves a lot of trouble to lock it up for three years," he said.

But Kallal said he found that unacceptable: "We are putting a heavy burden on the ratepayers.

Gravel roads in the county make it a necessity to have dust control.

"I think we just owe it to our ratepayers that we're not going to try and shove this down their throats," he said, requesting the

two years of "add ons" to fees be left off the bylaw.

Then council amended Section 4 of the policy deleting the years 2021 and 2022. The policy amendment passed with Smook opposed.

The bylaw's First and second reading took place after that, and passed with Smook opposed.

However, the vote to allow third and final reading didn't pass unanimously as required with Smook again opposed.

The third and final reading was voted on at the March 26 special meeting. Unanimous consent was not required so the bylaw passed despite the nay vote from Smook.

"I feel this falls short," he said, before the vote. "(The bylaw) should include a plan for the future."

Pederson said that the county's new priority based budgeting "will change things for next year," adding the bylaw can always be readdressed.

Kallal agreed the issue could be revisited. "I think that the crisis this county is in we shouldn't hammer (ratepayers) with extra costs."

Smook asked for a recorded vote for third reading of the amended bylaw. All councillors were in favour except for Smook.

Notice of Development Permits The following Development Applications have been APPROVED (except where otherwise noted) by the Development Officer under the provisions of Land Use Bylaw No. 98-801, subject to the right of appeal to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board.

APPEAL DEADLINE: April 15, 2020 Application No. 020020-20-D0006 Applicant: Dragan Uzelac Location: SW 30-51-19-W4 Development: Micro Cultivation Shop 62x80 sq. ft â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Amendment to Development Permit 020020-19-D0017 APPEAL DEADLINE: April 15, 2020 Application No. 020020-20-D0007 Applicant: Ducks Unlimited Canada Location: NW 25-50-18-W4 Development: Sign for Conservation Project â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1.22m x 2.44m Any person wishing to appeal a decision may do so by serving written notice on the prescribed form (stating reasons for the appeal) and submitting the applicable fee of $200.00 to the Secretary of the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board at the following address. The notice of appeal must be submitted before 4:30 pm on the appeal deadline date shown above, or be postmarked by the appeal deadline date. The prescribed form is available at www.beaver.ab.ca or at the County office. Further information regarding the above decision(s) may be obtained from the County Office, Ryley, Alberta.

SECRETARY Subdivision and Development Appeal Board Beaver County, Box 140 Ryley, Alberta T0B 4A0

(780) 663-3730

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Road Bans

4 - Beaver County Chronicle, April 1, 2020

Beaver County Service Centre 5120 - 50 Street Box 140 Ryley, Alberta T0B 4A0 Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Public Notice

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY AND UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Beaver County recognizes the seriousness of the coronavirus outbreak and our top priority is the health and safety of our community and staff.

We are taking the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus and are limiting staff interaction with the public.

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY AND UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE, the Beaver County Services Centre and Transportation Shop will be CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC. Staff will continue to work in the office and provide the essential services our residents need.

Please check the County’s website at www.beaver.ab.ca for access to on-line forms, information regarding methods of payment, etc.

You may also reach staff at the Services Centre at 780-663-3730.

Most, if not all, of your questions or concerns can be addressed on-line or by speaking with a staff member on the phone. County staff are available and happy to assist you with any questions you have regarding County services, applications, payment of accounts, etc.

For more information regarding COVID-19, please refer to Alberta Health Services’ website at https://albertahealthservices.ca/topics/Page16944.aspx or the Alberta Government’s website at https://www.alberta.ca/coronavirus-info-foralbertans.aspx.

Thank you for respecting the health and safety of our employees and for helping prevent the spread of this virus. Your patience is appreciated.

Phone: (780) 663-3730 Fax: (780) 663-3602 Toll Free: 1-866-663-1333 www.beaver.ab.ca Email: administration@beaver.ab.ca

Dust Control

Dust Control In 2020 Beaver County has discontinued the subsidy program and residents will pay 100% of the product cost.

The County reserves the right to maintain the sites in a manner suitable to the Public Works Department.

Residents desiring Spring applications of dust control on the County road adjacent to their property must apply by 11:59pm, April 15, 2020 to: Beaver County 5120 – 50 St Box 140 Ryley, AB T0B 4A0 Please note: Applications post marked before or on April 15, 2020 will be accepted. Applications may also be dropped off in the drop box at the Beaver County Service Centre or over the phone using VISA or M/C, however applications must be submitted first. You may call the office to have an application sent by mail. (780) 663-3730

Staff Easter Hours

Beaver County Easter Holiday Hours Good Friday, April 10 – Closed Easter Monday, April 13 – Closed Tuesday, April 14 – Beaver County is open by “Telephone Only” regular office hours.

You can reach staff by calling 780-663-3730 Beaver County Council and Staff would like to wish everyone a safe, healthy, happy Easter holiday!

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 1, 2020 - Page 7

Tofield IGA

MP Damien Kurek

Continued from Page 2

The local IGA has been fitted with plexi shields as instructed by the regional Sobey’s headquarters. MOUSH JOHN PHOTO Continued from Front Page peak during the past few days, Hare Sr. has been able to provide extra hours to his staff, especially with the store open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

“We had to alter our hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. to what it’s now so that our seniors get their time to shop,” Hare Sr.

explained. “We’re trying our best even though we’re behind by two orders. Usually we receive our ordered stock within 48 hours, but these are unprecedented times and there’s nothing we can do if our orders from the Calgary warehouse are delayed.”

Hare Sr. stated that even though the warehouse is “robotized” the

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speed at which they can go is set to a certain pace.

“We are good with bread, meat and fresh produce right now, but it’s the canned items and baking stuff like flour, sugar, etc. that we are waiting on,” he said.

“Our deli counter is closed and we are selling pre-packaged meat; and we are out of toilet paper still!”

Kurek stressed the importance of getting regular physical exercise while practising social distancing and good hygiene: “Flatten the curve; slow the spread. Be smart and wise about social distancing.

“You don’t want to be THAT person to spread the illness and get another person ill.”

Kurek closed his town hall by saying, “It’s an honour to be your member of parliament, and I know that you, whether it be in good times, and you obviously hope there will be more good times, or in bad times, it is an honour to be your member of parliament and fighting for each and every one of you.”

He said that having constituents join in this crucial town hall was a way for him to connect during this difficult period. He said for those

confused by or seeking information on new programs, “I encourage you to reach out, I will do everything I can to fight for you.”

He told listeners, “Don’t lose hope in the midst of this. Canadians are tough, we have a lot to be hopeful for and certainly, be the good neighbour that in the midst of this crisis, helps those in need, helps those who are just needing a hand up.

“I know that if we just all do that, if we all make that phone call, maybe it’s just calling a grandparent, family member, or friend, having a video chat, playing a game with your kids, make sure you’re doing everything you can to ensure that at the end of this we are stronger as Canadians, stronger as Albertans, and show the world what our country is about, and I’m confident in the fact that Canadians are tough.”

He said he and wife Danielle, and their families are praying for the constituency.

“There is much to be hopeful for going beyond the circumstances that we now face.”

He encouraged residents to email or call his office with their concerns.

He closed with a final question, about the April 1 carbon tax hike, saying, “We’ve called on government to stop it, with no response.

“We will continue to fight this carbon tax that just punishes Canadians for living their lives, with no actual benefit on the environment.”

He’s still waiting to find out for sure if the federal income benefits that have been announced will be considered taxable income, but says “We are waiting for confirmation but we have been told it will likely be tax exempt.”

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Page 8 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 1, 2020

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IN YOUR BUSINESS.

Advertise in the Tofield Mercury!

Tired of Reseeding your Alfalfa?

For Sale Certified Algonquin Alfalfa Seed 99.9% purity, zero weed seeds, Inoculated, in 55 lb bags Wholesale price $3.00 a pound. Algonquin Alfalfa is a tap root tri-foliate, extremely winter hardy, fine stem, with excellent disease resistance.

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Farmer Direct, we grow what we sell.

FREE SHIPPING ALBERTA-WIDE on orders over 2200 lbs.

Now Selling Brome, Orchard & Wheat Grasses

Maurizia Mau urizia rizia Hinse Hinsse s 780-434-8746 780-4 780-434-874 4 46 ext.

4-874 ex xt 20 2 200 00 classifieds@awna.com classi classifieds@ ed eds@ ed ds@ @awna @awna.com awna.com n com com

RAM R AM RIVER FORAGE FOR AGE SEEDS Call 403-330-9 403-330-9136 136

ramriv ramriverforageseeds.ca erfo orageseeds.ca

e SqueethezMOST out of your advertising dollars Place your ad in this newspaper and province wide $ with a combined circulation of over 710,000 for only...

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Value Ad Network Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x200 email classifieds@awna.com or visit this community newspaper

Page 10 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 1, 2020

L

THE LAMONT

Affordable Advertising with

The

Classifieds

CLASSIFIED AD RATES

$10.75 first 25 words 39¢ each additional word PICTURE BOLD $10.00 $5.00 WEEKLY REVIEW Ph. 780-336-3422 Email: vikingreview @gmail.com

TOFIELD MERCURY Ph. 780-662-4046 Email: adsmercury @gmail.com

LAMONT LEADER Ph. 780-895-2780 Email: lmtleader @gmail.com ___________________ CARD CARD OF OF THANKS THANKS The family of Patricia Madu would like to thank the Doctors, Nurses, and Staff at Viking Hospital; To every one at the Palliative Homecare; To the staff at Bethany Meadows in Camrose; to Rose Mae Kjelland of Viking Funeral Services; Pastor Alvin Sorenson; and to all of our family and friends for the visits, cards, flowers, and prayers.

Last, but not least, we would like to apologize to the many who could not visit due to the COVID-19 situation.

Dale, Nicole, Andrew, Jeremy, Alexandra, and Families 14c

___________________ HAYFOR FOR SALE HAY SALE

Hay for sale.

ALF/TM/BR/CW mix.

Shedded small square bales $7, round bales $60. Minimal rain.

Phone late evenings 780-942-4107 LL11/19p __________________ SEEDFOR FOR SALE SEED SALE Certified seed for sale Barley: Amisk. Oats: AC Morgan, O R E 3 5 4 2 M , Haymaker.

Brett Young: all canola & forage varieties. Haralie Seed Farms 780-6622617 or 780-405-8089.

Tofield Alta.

TM09tfn __________________ LIVESTOCK LIVESTOCK Purebred yearling and 2 yr old Red & Black Angus bulls for sale. Call 780-986-9088 14/21p __________________ Purebred Salers Bulls.

White, tan, red, and black.

Scattered Spruce Salers 780-768-2284 780-208-0199 (cell) 11/23c __________________ NOTICE NOTICE Hans on Massage Therapy is now TEMPORARILY CLOSED until further notice.

Sorry for the inconvenience and stay safe everyone!

14/15c

Support your paper during these uncertain times •Advertise!

•Subscribe!

•Order Printing!

Contact your local paper today!

__________________ NOTICE NOTICE

NOTICE

New to You cannot accept donations until further notice 13/15p ___________________

REAL REAL ESTATE ESTATE Restaurant for Sale in Sedgewick 9,000 sq. ft. building, plus 3 lots 25x100.

Dining room plus lounge, 140 seats - plus opportunity for additional living space! Call 780-384-3600. Serious inquiries only! ___________________ SERVICES SERVICES Handyman/Carpenter for hire.

Over 25 years of experience.

References available upon request.

Call: 780-919-0392.

TM12/19p __________________ Marvel Construction Ltd. •New Construction • Renovations • Repairs FREE ESTIMATES! Ramlal (Steve) Arjoon Home Improvement Specialist 780-298-1955 steve.arjoon @yahoo.com Serving Viking & Beaver County 13/14p __________________ Marvel Construction Ltd. Commercial and Residental Cleaning Ramlal (Steve) Arjoon 780-298-1955 steve.arjoon @yahoo.com Serving Viking & Beaver County 13/14p

EADER

Serving

Lamont

county

3 papers for the price of 1!

___________________ SERVICES SERVICES

__________________ SERVICES SERVICES

__________________ SERVICES SERVICES

Roy's Handyman Services.

Flooring, trim work, basement finishing, decks, fences, kitchen cabinet installs and carpentry work.

Call 780-662-0146 or 780-232-3097. __________________ 35+ years experience Drywall Taper for hire.

Big jobs or small.

Living in Killam but willing to travel. Hand taper by trade but have experience with boxes, roller/flusher, taping tube. No bazooka experience.

Have own tools (10-12" boxes, pump, angle box, roller, flusher, hand tools, etc.)

Also do ceiling texture.

Non-drinker/partier, just want to get the work done.

Willing to work with existing building or taping crew.

Contact me if interested. 780-385-2106 / 780385-1251.

Carpet and upholstery cleaning - residential and commercial.

Truck mount unit, sewer back-up, and flood cleaning. Auto and RV cleaning.

Call Glenn and Cindi Poyser, Fancy Shine Auto and Carpet Care at (780) 384-3087

Painting Quality Residential and Commercial Painting Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749 or 780-688-3564

tfnc __________________ WHY GO OUT OF TOWN OR OUT OF COUNTY FOR YOUR PRINTING? ORDER YOUR PRINTING LOCALLY FROM YOUR LOCAL PAPER! We design it.

We customize it.

Call your local paper with your print order today!

Tofield Mercury 780-662-4046 tofieldmerc.com Lamont Leader 780-895-2780 lamontleader.com The Weekly Review 780-336-3422 weeklyreview.ca

tfnc ___________________ Shane’s Stucco & Drywall Service Shane Hollar Stucco (Traditional & Acrylic), Drywall, Stone, Textured Ceilings, Tile, and Spray Painting 780-336-4832 shanes.stucco@ gmail.com 14p ___________________ WANTED WANTED WANTED - Pasture Land to rent for the 2020 season. 1/4 or less.

Call Joe at 1-403-740-9356 and leave a message.

14/16, 18/19p

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 1, 2020 - Page 11

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Page 12 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 1, 2020

IIN N NEED NEE ED D OF OF HELP HEL LP P/ SUPPLIES SU UP PP PLIE ES PHONE PH HON NE #

We We encour encourage age community member members s to be on the look lookout out ffor o or these signs sig & reach reach out to those in need.

If you you are are a senior senior,r, so need,, disabled disabled,, in self selffsomeone in need quarantine OVID-19 quarantine,, or without transpor transportation tation during this CCOVID-19 crisis we encourage yyou in yyour our crisis,, we ou ttoo fold fold o and place this page p most visible window window or on your your door to to indicate you require indicate if you require help and supplies or if you you are are doing ok ay. AAdd dd in yyour our phone # okay. if you you are are uncomf foortable answ ering the door uncomfortable answering door..

Feature Feature sponsored sponso ored by:

Mercury rcury The Tofield Tofield

ALL IS OKAY We We encour encourage age community member members s to be on the look lookout out ffor o or these signs sig & reach reach out to those in need.