The Tofield Mercury Dec. 1, 2021

Proud to be an Independent CANADIAN Publication

$1 INCLUDING GST

Your Independent Local Newspaper Established in 1918 VOLUME 104: ISSUE 14

www.tofieldmerc.com

ANNUAL SPILSTEAD BAZAAR RAISES $2.5K.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2021

HASTINGS LAKE LIGHTS BRING JOY TO THE COMMUNITY.

SEE PAGE 7

SEE PAGE 12

Tofield’s Winterfest brings back festive cheer FIRST PLACE WINNER – 4334 54th AVE.

THIRD PLACE WINNER – 4 BEAVERHILL DRIVE

MOUSH JOHN

SECOND PLACE WINNER – 32 BEAVERHILL DRIVE

Editor

Here are the winners from the Home Decorating Contest hosted by the Town of Tofield this year. MOUSH JOHN PHOTOS

DR MARC KALLAL DR TIFFANY LIM DR JEANETTE TRAC

5024 51 AVE PH: 780-662-0104

Tofield had a busy weekend with the Winterfest in town and ‘Stuff the Bus’, followed by a virtual ‘Lighting of the Tree’ and fireworks.

Given that it was held within a pandemic, a few events were modified, while some others were cancelled, such as the ‘Festival of Trees’.

However, that did not dampen the spirit of community members as ‘Stuff the Bus’ event raised $6,400, which includes

OFFICE HOURS MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

11-4 10-5 10-6 10-5 9-3 9-1

the match up that Dave Hare traditionally does.

“It was once again very successful, and we had additional cash donations from the community with about 250 pounds of food,” said Vanita Eglauer, Recreation/Facilities Coordinator at the Town of Tofield. “Thank you to everyone for their continued support of this event, and the Christmas Hampers. We appreciate all the donations of both food and money, and we’re still accepting food Continued on Page 3

WE ARE HERE FOR ALL YOUR EYE CARE NEEDS!

BOOK YOUR EYE EXAM DIRECTLY ONLINE AT WWW.TOFIELDEYECARE.COM

20% off SUNGLASSES SALE - prescription and non prescription Sale until December 31. Some conditions apply.

Page 2 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Western Maker’s Market draws crowds at Winterfest Moush John Tofield Mercury

This year’s Winterfest hosted on Saturday, Nov. 27 had a different look and feel compared to other years, but still had

the community buzzing, especially at the Tofield Community Hall, where the first-ever Western Maker’s Market was held.

“I’ve been keen on hosting a market specifi-

cally for the Western lifestyle audience – a Western Maker’s Market, so when the opportunity presented itself this year, I was able to organize and get things going,” said Tally

McLaren, who was the host and main organizer.

A Tofield resident and business owner herself, McLaren was excited that the response was immediate and overwhelmingly positive

with 31 vendors filling up the Community Hall, selling their Western lifetsyle products under one roof.

“The vendors were all linked to the Western way of living, and either

provided services in this area or handcraft; their products were of amazing quality and had intricate details,” McLaren explained. “I’m hoping Continued on Page 8

12th Annual

One-Stop Christmas Shopping Friday, Dec. 3rd - 1 pm - 8 pm Saturday, Dec. 4th - 10 am - 5 pm Quilting, Baking, Jams & Jellies, Nut Man, Wood Working, Christmas Decorations, & Much More!

To provide your feedback on the Students First Act, visit: UnitedConservativeCaucus.ca /haveyoursay

•

780.672.0000

Bernice Peters Home 780-446-2417 grammasstitches@gmail.com

Constituency Office Information 4870-51 St. Camrose, AB T4V 1S1

5316-53 St., Tofield

• Camrose@assembly.ab.ca

780-918-9300 www.lorenzteam.com 5118 50 St, Tofield, AB

MASKS ARE MANDATORY

Welcome to Tofield!

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Rge Rd 180 & Twp Rd 552 • 148.95 acres in Lamont County • 98 acres #2 soil, 12 acres #3 soil, 38.95 acres pasture

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Rge Rd 181 & Twp Rd 559 • 160 acres in Lamont County • 120 acres #2 soil, 25 acres pasture

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Highway 29 & Rge Rd 181 • 158.28 acres in Lamont County • 122 acres #2 soil, 28 acres pasture

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Corner lot in great location near schools, arena and curling club in Tofield.

Build your dream home on this 50 ft x 140 ft lot.

This corner lot is just around the corner from the Rodeo and sports grounds and only a few blocks from Main Street Tofield which features many businesses. Welcome Home!

Rge Rd 180 & Twp Rd 562 • 160 acres in Lamont County • 129 acres #2 soil, 32 acres pasture

Greg Litwin, Real Estate Associate greg@lorenzteam.com

780-662-4623 www.home-time.net

Kevin Smook - REALTOR ®

Making you feel at home since 1999!

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021 - Page 3

‘Stuff the Bus’ raises $6,400 Continued from Front Page

donations in the collection bins.”

Speaking to what went in organizing the event, Asst. CAO, Jeff Edwards said, “The Committee needed to evolve based upon provincial restrictions and be mindful of community safety.

Therefore, the decision was made to not hold the Family Dance.

“Also, to help mitigate crowds, gatherings etc.

the Lighting of the Tree with Mayor Dueck and Santa was done virtually.

Due to the presence of Covid, community events have had to operate on a pivot, often being forced to change at the last minute.”

The Home and Business Decorating contest, which is in its second year, usually chooses a winner with community votes, which can be inperson or via email or through Facebook.

“Each person can vote once for their favourite three in each category,” Edwards explained. “All prizes are from local businesses; it was important from a committee perspective to keep our monies local and to give back to Tofield.

“The number of participants is down slightly from last year; however, this is still an event that can be enjoyed by all and provides a further piece the community can

both look forward to and participate in.”

In the residential category, the winners were: 4334 54th Ave. (first place); 32 Beaverhill Drive (second place); and 4 Beaverhill Drive (third place).

In the business category, the winners were: Ritchie Agencies (first place); Tofield Eyecare (second place); and Water Co. 192 (third place).

“The fireworks were a well-run, top-notch event,” Edwards added.

“Dan Hillyer and his crew should be commended for offering the community an event, which was second to none! Once again, Tofield offered something unique that could be enjoyed by all ages.”

The Tofield Mercury Holiday Hours Final newspaper of 2021 will be on newsstands

Tuesday, Dec. 21 First paper of 2022 is on

Wednesday, Jan. 5 We are closed: Dec. 22 – 28, 2021 Open: Dec. 29 & 30, 2021 We are closed: Dec. 31, 2021 Re-open: Jan. 3, 2022

2021 COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS HAMPER PROGRAM Stuff the Bus event, was a huge success again this year. Parked from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., community members are asked to buy hampers, which fill the bus.

This year, and last year, the actual bus wasn’t filled.

A paper bus was used to stuff in the coupons.

The Community Christmas Hamper program assists families in Tofield, Ryley and Beaver County(west), who may be struggling to put a Christmas dinner on the table, or gifts under the tree.

1. Hamper Requests To request a Christmas Hamper, visit the FCSS Office in Tofield (5407-50 St.) (upstairs) or Call: 780-662-7067.

Presentation of photo ID, and proof of physical address (eg. utility bill) will be requested to confirm that you are within our service area.

Referrals are confidential. Hamper request deadline is Friday, December 10th.

2. Angel Tree

n o i t p i r c s b u ear S Y 1 a f f O 7 tion p i r c Save $ s b u S r Yea 2 a f f O 6 1 tion p i r c Save $ s b u S r 3 Yea a f f O 7 2 $ Save

Our gift to you over the holidays!

Sale runs Dec. 14 to 31! We’ll be closed part of that time, but feel free to pay online or mail a cheque!

Mercury The Tofield

STOP BY OUR OFFICE TODAY OR CALL 780-662-4046 MAIL A CHEQUE TO: BOX 150, TOFIELD, AB T0B 4J0 PAY ONLINE www.TOFIELDMERC.COM/CHRISTMAS

Angel trees are set up at both Tofield and Ryley Post Office locations.

1. Pick an angel from the tree. (Blue = Boy, Pink = Girl) A child’s age, and their interests will help you select a gift.

2. Purchase a gift(s) for that child - suggested spending limit of $50.

3. Attach the angel to the unwrapped gift, and return it to the collection box at the Angel Tree.

Angel gifts be returned to the tree by Friday, December 10th

3. Volunteer Delivery Drivers Volunteers will be required for delivery of hampers on Sat., Dec. 18th in Tofield at 10 am and Ryley at 11 am.

Volunteer drivers will be required to provide proof of vaccination, medical exemption or a negative covid test from within 72 hours. Masks must be worn. If you are able to volunteer, please contact FCSS at 780-662-7067.

Due to the covid guidelines, we are unable to welcome community volunteers to drop-in and help with packing the Christmas Hampers this year.

Page 4 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Main Str Street eet Commer Commercial cial Lot F For or Sale Viking, V iking, i AB

Great nity!

Oppor tu

Great Commercial ercial Lot on Main Streett in V Viking, iking, AB. ONLY AVAILABLE! AILABLE! ONL LY ONE LIKE IT A VA AIL Large attractive central location, would be perfect for constructing a new building. Build yourself an of office, out upstairs apartment. fffice, rent o Build two of office spaces, ffffice f space use one/rent one. Pays for itself! Or place a pre-built on the property. property. The possibilities are endless. Located between bottle depot and Food with Flair, Flair, near Food Bank/FCSS, across from bank and financial advisors, near liquor stores and school. Last serviced in 2012 (torn down).

ASKING

$19,000 Barb Chrystian 780-385-0631

Obituary Louis Andre Perrot Oct. 17, 1932 - Nov. 26, 2021 Louis Andre Perrot of Sherwood Park, formerly of Tofield, Alberta peacefully passed away on November 26th, 2021 at the Greynuns Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta at the age of 89 years.

He was born October 17, 1932 to parents Francois and Emila Perrot in Bonnyville, Alberta.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife Bernice; parents Francois and Emila; 2 brothers Romeo and Victor and 3 sisters Yvonne, Florence and Lorainne.

He will be forever remembered and loved by his daughter Susan (Mel) and his sons Mike (Marlene, Denis (Brooke), and Lee; grandchildren Kerri, Craig (Ashley), Amanda (Chris), Michelle (Richard), Rebecca (Ed), Shauna (Keegan), Hanna, Cael, Gocean, Dylan Remmy; 11 great-grandchildren; along with many family and friends.

Louis worked at the post office in Edmonton, first as a letter carrier and then a manager, retiring after 30 years at age 60.

During retirement they moved out to Tofield, Alberta and enjoyed 20+years of belonging to the Golden Club, men's choir and golfing to name a few. These activities gave him many years of fun, laughter and great friendships.

After his wife Bernice passed in Oct 2017, he moved into Sherwood Park, Alberta and lived with his daughter and son-inlaw and last resided at Aster Garden's retirement home in Sherwood Park.

Memorial service to be announced at a later date.

Some of Louis's charities that he liked to help out were the Tofield food bank, the Mustard Seed and Hope Mission.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers to please keep these in mind.

Weber Funeral Home 780-662-3959 • www.weberfuneralhome.ca

SHOP LOCAL THIS SEASON! Go to Pages 9, 10 & 11 to SHOP LOCAL and avail of GREAT DEALS! INVITATION TO TENDER FARMLAND Rick Schmaus hereby offers the following land for sale by tender, subject to the existing reservations on title: Parcel 1 - NW-2-49-15-W4th (160 titled acres) Parcel 2 - NE-2-49-15-W4th (160 titled acres) Tenders are to be submitted in sealed envelopes marked "Schmaus Tender", to Andreassen Borth, Barristers and Solicitors, #200, 4870 - 51 Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1S1, on or before 12:00 noon on January 14, 2022, and shall be accompanied with a cheque for $5,000.00, and GST number.

Tenders will not be opened in public.

The highest, or any tender, not necessarily accepted.

Unsuccessful tenderers will be notified by mail, and their cheques returned.

Successful tenderers shall be obligated to complete the purchase on or before March 1st, 2022, and their cheque shall constitute a deposit towards the purchase price.

For further information, or to view the property, please contact Rick at 780-385-1137 or Jordan at 780-385-1221.

Obituary Gerald Gahr 1938 - 2021 Gerry passed away peacefully on November 9, 2021 in Tofield, AB at the age of 83 surrounded by his family and friends.

He was predeceased by his wife Diane and his grandson Anthony.

Gerald will be lovingly missed by his son Ricky, granddaughter Sarah, sisters Velma and Joan and brother Wayne and many relatives and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at 2:00 PM at Glenwood Funeral Home, 52356 Range Road 232, Sherwood Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tofield Lodge. To send condolences online, please visit www.glenwoodmemorial.com.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021 - Page 5

Loose Ends: The Rise of the Machines

Carol Livingstone Tofield Mercury Columnist

A funny thing happened on my way to writing my first Christmas themed column.

Our pizza, pepperoni with onions and pep-

pers, made with our usual panache, came out of the oven as raw as when it went in. We tried to ignore the mushy dough but the way it stuck to the roof of our mouths just didn’t feel right. So instead of things that raise our spirits my topic this week is things that raise our tempers. In particular, our kitchen stove.

We can’t recall how long ago we purchased it; for some reason Hubby’s usually metic-

ulous records fail to include that info. But the fridge has been hanging around for 25 years and we’re sure they are of a similar age. However old it is, the oven apparently was too tired and crotchety to give our pizza twenty minutes of attention. No warning.

No hint. Just no heat.

The numbers said the temperature had reached the desired 425 degrees but in fact was at a lowly 140. At that temp the pizza might

have cooked through in twenty-four, maybe thirty-six hours. But by then it would have been as tough and dry as Italian shoe leather. About then it occurred to me that our appliances have a bad habit of breaking down when we need them most, like in the middle of cooking supper or when a can needs opening. I’m sensing a conspiracy. The rise of the machines.

But about this stove.

Hubby’s not sure what

the problem is so he can’t fix it – yet. Perhaps the element, but when he sought help from the manufacturer’s website he was greeted with ‘this part is no longer available.’ To a retired parts manager used to finding parts or alternatives to replace whatever was broken, them’s fightin’ words.

So he’s on a mission to find a way to get the oven up and running ASAP. Besides the fightin’ words his moti-

vation is knowing that a new stove would cost over $1000, give or take a buck.

Meanwhile, we won’t starve to death without the oven. We still have full use of the stove top, a set of pots and pans, as well as three cast iron frypans and several lesser ones, and there’s always take-out. Oh yes, and the microwave.

Now if that blows a fuse, well, that would not be a funny thing. I might even cry.

Tofield RCMP Report Sgt. Lee Knelsen Tofield RCMP

The Tofield RCMP responded to 28 occurrences from Nov. 22 to 28, 2021 (inclusive). Also included in these calls for service were nine traffic complaints/tickets, four suspicious person/vehicle complaints, one wellbeing check, two 911

complaints/false alarms, five motor vehicle collisions and traffic enforcement provided by the K Division Traffic Unit.

On Nov. 22, Tofield RCMP responded to a complaint of person(s) who were observed shooting illegally from a vehicle in Beaver County. Tofield RCMP patrolled the area and located two vehicles which they believe were

involved in the complaint and were able to identify all individuals involved. Information and assistance provided

by Alberta Fish and Wildlife officers for further follow-up. This file is still under investigation.

On Nov. 26, Tofield RCMP responded to a domestic disturbance in Tofield. RCMP arrived on scene and spoke to

the parties involved and confirmed that it was a verbal argument between family although one of the parties had outstanding warrants which they were arrested and subsequently released.

On Nov. 27, Tofield RCMP responded to a residential break and enter in Beaver County.

RCMP attended and found that entry was

gained to the residence by prying the door open. Once inside, suspects had stolen construction material. This file is still under investigation.

Updates to previous investigations On Oct. 1, Tofield RCMP responded to an assault complaint in Beaver County. Tofield RCMP attended and spoke to the com-

plainant who advised that while walking their dogs and attempting to leave the area, a suspect had assaulted them with a walking cane. On Nov. 22, Tofield RCMP charged Martin Mojzisik (48) of Edmonton with the following: Assault with a weapon; a summons has been issued for Martin Mojzisik on the above mentioned charge.

Alberta gets first case of omicron COVID-19 variant Moush John Tofield Mercury

The province has confirmed its first case of the omicron variant, brought into Alberta by a traveller who has returned from Nigeria and the Netherlands.

In a news conference on Tuesday, Nov. 30, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta’s chief medical officer of health said, “I’m reporting we have now one confirmed case of the omicron variant in Alberta. This case has been confirmed in a returning traveller from Nigeria and the Netherlands.

“The individual tested positive while asymptomatic and I can confirm this individual has not left quarantine since their arrival from international travel.”

She added that house-

hold members of the traveller had been notified and measures were in place to prevent onward transmission.

“I don’t want Albertans to be alarmed. As I mentioned [Monday], we anticipated the arrival of this variant in the province eventually based on what we’ve seen from previous strains of COVID-19,” Hinshaw stated. “We were well-prepared for this eventuality.”

The province had already ramped up tracing and testing of COVID-19 cases identified in all returning international travellers in a bid to stay ahead of the variant in the province.

She further added that the individual, who had been travelling alone, returned to Alberta about one week ago and was

tested for COVID-19 on arrival.

“There is typically a time lag between an initial positive test and follow-up testing for variants.”

Omicron, a strain that

may be more infectious than previous versions of the coronavirus, was declared a variant of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO) last week.

The Canadian govern-

ment has already banned travellers from a number of southern African countries in a bid to contain the spread.

Alberta is monitoring 156 travellers who re-

turned from these banned countries in the last two weeks. The travellers were contacted over the weekend, advised of testing and isolation rules and offered testing kits.

Page 6 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Keep the conversation going!

Facebook.com/TofieldMercury Twitter.com/TofieldMercury Website/www.tofieldmerc.com

Opinion

Email us your letter to the editor: news.tofield@gmail.com, or drop it in at our office

New Childcare Agreement MLA JACKIE LOVELY Camrose Constituency

When the snow starts to come, it’s typically a busy time for the provincial government and this year is no exception. Several bills have been tabled and some important economic announcements made. Unfortunately, I cannot fit all the good news on my bi-weekly column so here are some highlights I know will be of interest to the Camrose constituency residents.

I am thrilled for parents with the provincial and federal governments teaming up for a major announcement on daycare! With this $3.8 billion package, parents can expect childcare costs to be cut in half by early 2022.

Children’s Service’s Minister Rebecca Schultz never wavered during sometimes tense negotiations with the federal government, and we came up with a made-in-Alberta solution. It is a mixed market solution that will feature private,

public, and not-forprofit spaces. We think it should be up to parents to decide which type of care is best for them and this model offers that flexibility. Part of the plan is to add 42,500 daycare spaces where they are in short supply so anyone who needs a spot will have one. Many of these spots will be in rural Alberta.

Our government also opened the second intake for a popular program – the Jobs Now grant. The first intake saw around $182 million given to businesses in need. The first intake closed earlier than expected due to the number of applications. According to the government, around 2.700 applications were approved for approximately 14,000 positions so it has helped get people back to work.

The government has received valuable feedback and made some changes to ex-

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

pand the criteria to apply. The program can now go towards part-time positions.

Previously, an employee would need to work 30 hours to qualify. That has been reduced to 15 hours.

Jobs Now will fund up to 25 per cent of costs of hiring new workers, or training current staff, but to a maximum amount of $25,000 per employee. The exception to that figure is if an employee with a disability is hired or trained. You could qualify for up to 37.5 per cent or a maxi-

mum of $37,500.

Please head to www.alberta.ca/jobsnow to apply. If you do not have online access, feel free to call my office.

Something I wanted to also bring to your attention is that this week is Bullying Awareness Week. I am glad our government has been proactive on taking a stand against bullying and intimidation of any kind! Bullying can happen to any person, at any age, in any community – at home, school, or work. All forms of

bullying, whether in person or online, can have harmful and lasting impacts on those who are bullied as well as those who witness bullying, especially when the behaviour continues unchecked.

There are several resources available to anyone who believes they are being bullied.

For starters, if you, or someone you know, is in immediate danger, you should call 911.

The government also has a Bullying Helpline, and the service is available in 170 languages. The

number to call is 1888-456-2323. You can also find the Bullying Helpline Chat by going to: www.alberta.ca/bullying-prevention.aspx. These services offer anonymity.

Whether it is physical or verbal bullying, it has no place in the Camrose constituency, or anywhere in Alberta.

Much more information is available on the link I posted in the previous paragraph, and I encourage you to have a close look when you are free to do so.

Funds by the Government of Canada

Print Subscription $33.50 Pick-up Subscription $24.94 Online Subscription $16.75 * Prices do not include GST *

Kerry Anderson

Moush John

Lisa Kuflay

Sarah McLaughlin

Michelle Anderson

Publisher

Managing Editor

Office Manager/ Composition/Sales

Front Office/ Composition/Sales

Administration

*Advertisements designed, set, and produced by The Tofield Mercury, as well as original photographs, articles and columns, editorial content, and other printed materials are protected by copyright and may not be used or reproduced without the expressed and signed written consent of The Tofield Mercury. In addition, we reserve the right to edit, delay, and/or refuse any and all material submitted to us without notice. Submitted Letters to the Editor and Opinion columns reflect the exclusive thoughts and opinions of the article’s author, and do not represent those of this publication, nor its publisher and staff.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021 - Page 7

Spilstead Bazaar raises $2500 at annual event nated his time once again.

“Ed kindly volunteered his auctioneering expertise to make our event a success,” Van Sickle added. “He comes along with his lovely wife and they are a great addition to our community. We would like to thank him greatly for always putting a huge smile on our faces and always making our event such a huge success.”

According to Van Sickle, the money raised would be used throughout the year to pay for insurance and utilities.

“Without this event and the generosity of our community our hall would not be able to stay running,” she said. “Our inspiration behind the Bazaar is to get our community together and raise funds for our hall to stay open. It is always

Moush John Tofield Mercury

Spilstead Community Hall hosted their Annual Bazaar this past Saturday, Nov. 27, raising approximately $2,500 for the day-to-day expenses and operational costs.

The Bazaar, which has been a mainstay of the community for more than 40 years is supported by members from the area and neighbouring region.

“We had 11 vendors who joined us for our fundraising efforts,” said Lindsay Van Sickle, treasurer. “We were catering mostly to the holiday spirit, and had everything from homemade baking to Christmas decor!”

Ed Pietsch, who has been the auctioneer for this event for many years, generously do-

nice to see familiar faces and new ones too! We love having new volunteers join us and staying in touch with our community.”

The highest item, which bid for $490 was an Oilers’ quilt, donated

by Quilting Country in Tofield.

“We cannot thank our community enough, without their support and generosity we would not be able to keep our hall open,” Van Sickle explained.

“Through these hard times we have counted on them to rent our hall and come to our events.

“We would also like to thank our volunteers; we have a small team of board members and we always come together to make these events a success. We hope to see everybody out at our events in the new year!”

Auctioneer Ed Pietsch worked his magic through the evening. LISA KUFLAY PHOTOS

Breanna and Brooklyn Anderson help out at the Bazaar.

Tofield and Area Church Directory Bardo Lutheran Church Salem Mennonite Church Pastor Calvin Andringa Sunday Worship Services: In Person – 10:00 AM Streaming – 10:00 AM Register for in person or access livestream through our website: tofieldalliancechurch.com

780-662-2762

•

5907 - 49 Street

Sunday Worship @ 10:30 am 49232 Rge Rd 184 Tofield, AB All are welcome!

Pastor Mark Loewen Worship services can also be 780-662-2365 accessed online @ Sunday School for all ages at www.bardolutheranchurch.weebly.com 9:45 am Sunday Worship 10:45 am 780-662-3411

Tofield Community Church Holden United Church Lead Pastor: Jon Stewart Tofield United Church Children/Youth Pastor: Nathan Nichols Due to COVID-19 in-person worship services have been suspended.

Live Sunday Worship at Online services will take place and can 10:30am www.tofieldchurch.com 780-662-3166 Services will be live streamed and available on our website/YouTube

be listened to on the phone. For login info please call: 780-662-3471 or email: beaverpastoralcharge@gmail.com

Rev. Adam Hall

Page 8 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Moose Crossing

The Tofield and District Chamber of Commerce

RESTART MEETING ANNUAL ELECTIONS Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM at the Community Hall on Main Street.

• This is a "Restart" meeting where all Tofield businesses, agencies and home based business operators are welcome.

You do not have to be a current Chamber Member.

• Elections will be held. All executive positions are open to be filled.

• Light lunch to be provided.

COVID PROTOCOLS ARE IN EFFECT

A moose seen on Hwy. 630, just west of Tofield Although hunting season ended yesterday, Nov. 30, commuters are asked to drive with caution as deer and moose can catch them unawares.

A bull moose with antlers stands taller at the shoulder than the largest saddle horse, and big bulls can weigh up to 600 kg in most parts of Canada.

K E R R Y A N D E R S O N PHOTO

Western Maker’s Market

Vendors at the Western Maker’s Market.

Continued from Page 2

CAMROSE COUNTY Notice is hereby given that under Section 418(1) of the Municipal Government Act that Camrose County will offer for sale, by Public Auction, at the Camrose County Office, 3755 43 Ave, Camrose, Alberta, on Friday, December 10th, 2021, at 9:30 a.m., the following parcels of land: Pt.Sec. Sec. Twp. Rge Mer Acres Lot(s) Block Plan Hamlet/Subdiv C of T 47 RLY 3977Z 102274429 15-16 5 6537AL Round Hill 042054496 26 7 7534AA Kingman 122253527 Pt NE 32 45 20 4 0.78 165I238 THESE PARCELS WILL BE OFFERED FOR SALE, Subject to a reserve bid and to the reservations and conditions contained in the existing Certificate of Title.

Camrose County may, after the public auction, become the owner of any parcel of land not sold at the public auction.

TERMS: Cash or Certified Cheque Redemption may be affected by the payment of all arrears of taxes and costs at any time prior to the sale.

DATED: November 19, 2021, at Camrose, in the Province of Alberta.

Paul King County Administrator

to build on this for next year, which I’ve already started to work on! All vendors were juried for their uniqueness and quality, as we had a specific target audience in mind.”

According to her, despite the pandemic, there weren’t any challenges or concerns she had to deal with.

“I just wanted to provide a high profile venue for the market, and we were fortunate to get that in the Tofield Community Hall,” McLaren added. “So far the feedback that I have received

has been extremely positive, and hearing back from the vendors was gratifying too.

“They were all quite happy how it went, and the community and the surrounding area supported this first annual market in a way that went above and beyond our expectations.”

Among the vendors were not only local and area businesses, but they had coe from as far as Hinton, Edson, Lac La Biche, and Coronation.

“Our first experience has been absolutely fantastic! I am just very thankful to the community for its support with this market.”

Head over to PAGE 20 to donate to our Christmas Tree! All donations go to our local FOOD BANK.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021 - Page 9

Tofield Shop Local 2021

20422 Twp Rd 502 Beaver County

Busy B Bargains

Tofield Packers

Subway

Tofield Car, RV, and Truck Wash

TreadPro

Tofield Eyecare

Tofield Spirits

Tilly’s

Tofield Bottle Depot

Country Lane Pet Boarding

Tofield Autobody

Shell

Uncle Rogers

Vertical Roots

Napa Auto Parts

Phone: 780-800-8031

Happy H olidays from Daily food and drink specials!

• Gift cards available • Pizza Special and Family Pack • Let us cater your next event!

780-662-4441 • 5103 - 50 Street Tofield, AB

Neigh-Barks

OK Tire

Holden Country Bottle Depot

Hastings Lake Animal Hospital

Tofield Bottle Depot Located at 5304 - 56 St. Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

We sort your bottles!

780-662-3936

Page 10 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Support our local businesses and Shop Local this season!

Tilly’s Restaurant offering

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5114 50 St., Tofield

5315 - 50 St. Tofield • 780-662-3212

780-662-3727

Come wash the salt off your vehicle at

Winter Tire Sale On Now! Come see us for your tire needs!

780-662-3334 5018 – 52 Ave. Tofield, AB

Located 1 km West

TOFIELD CAR, RV, & TRUCK WASH

of Tofield Custom slaughtering available

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Come check out our fresh meat selection! Homemade ham & garlic sausage & pepperoni for your Christmas needs!

780-913-5318

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on HWY 14

Grooming Appointments:

780-243-0206 Boarding Services:

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Bruce, Holden, Kinsella Ryley, Tofield, Viking

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB

The Beaver County

Hubert & Margaret Graham Parts, Sales & Service Bus: 780-663-3759 Res: 780-662-2384 Fax: 780-663-3799

ryalta@digitalweb.net 5108 - 50th St. Ryley, AB., T0B 4J0

A Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County Wednesday, December 1, 2021, Volume 14, Issue 48

Councillors at RMA Convention

At the recent RMA convention, Beaver and Flagstaff County councillors met with their local MLA. Above, from left: Beaver County councillor Dale Pederson (Division 5), Flagstaff County councillor Larry Hiller, Flagstaff Reeve Don Kroetch, Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely, Flagstaff councillor Mat Ponto, Beaver County councillor Lionel Williams (Division 2), and Beaver County Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3).

PHOTO COURTESY JACKIE LOVELY

AUMA changes name to Alberta Municipalities Patricia Harcourt The urban-rural divide is no longer as pronounced as once thought. So much so that a traditionally urban municipal organization has changed its name to delete the “urban” part of the name.

The Alberta Urban Municipalities Association (AUMA) is no more. It

has been replaced with the name Alberta Municipalities.

Urban municipalities within Beaver County will now have a new name that reflects some of their rural roots as the word ‘urban’ is less important and doesn’t reflect the reality of operating within rural borders.

“We removed ‘urban’ from our

name because members said they didn’t relate to it, and they define themselves as communities and municipalities,” stated the AM in its announcement.

The AUMA abbreviation “simply didn’t hold any value for them,” explained the organization. “So, our association has changed its name to Alberta Municipalities in

line with our members’ preference.

The organization has a new slogan, “Strength in Members.”

The member municipalities stated they wanted the name that “reflected their identifies and their aspirations.”

The process included changing the brand, name and tagline, it stated.

2 - Beaver County Chronicle, December 1, 2021

Second corporate governance review to be in closed session Patricia Harcourt Beaver County Council will once again go through the corporate governance review with consultant Rick McDonald at the December 1 regular meeting.

McDonald conducted an open session at council’s organizational meeting in late October. This review will be held in closed session. FOIP rules concerning personal privacy is the reason cited. FOIP stands for Freedom of Information and Privacy Act. McDonald reviewed the results of the entire document for the new council in open session October 27. Issues of trust were given as the foundation for both council and administration.

McDonald said he “needs to make abundantly clear” that the county’s staff was “very open, honest, transparent, cooperative…You have some good people working for you.”

He added that, by taking a “critical eye” to do the review, things that are wrong can always be found with over 80 interviews conducted. His list included 44 suggestions for council to consider adopting.

“We’ve covered the organization pretty thoroughly,” he said, at the October 27 meeting.

He started with what successful leadership means, giving the example of sticking to decisions even if there are complaints. Another was giving administration “clear direction,” instead of just “making a comment” and expecting action.

“If there’s no trust, then you’re a dysfunctional council,” he said, in terms of the relationship between staff and council.

And the reeve has a “fairly significant role” as the political contact for council, with the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) the one who reports to council. McDonald suggested there should be a council-CAO covenant, calling this “a solemn agreement” that is non-legally binding but is there “to respect each other’s role.”

Council should desire to do the best job they can while recognizing there are many good staff and positive initiatives taking place.

However, he mentioned there were “personality concerns” on (the former) council and with the former CAO. He also said it was council’s role to control the agenda for a meeting.

“This is your agenda and administration needs to get the information,” he said, adding: “If you don’t control your agenda, they will.” He urged councillors to talk with each other and with the CAO.

At this time, Assistant CAO Margaret Jones is acting as the Interim CAO following the firing of the former CAO at the end of September. Council has scheduled a special meeting in closed session to deal with the applications for this job position.

McDonald also felt that the county’s strategic plan “is unclear to me,” stating: “I didn’t get an understanding as to what purpose it had.”

He also felt the county’s public consultation was “weak,” as well as any economic plan for the future citing the Equity Industrial Park as an example.

McDonald pointed out council no longer has committee of the whole meetings, something he “feels is necessary.” Committee meetings allow councils to explore subjects and talk to parties that can give direction on subjects. Although council may reach a consensus on a topic or issue, no motions are passed at these meetings.

Instead it is brought forward to a regular meeting of council for official decisions.

“You’re trying to do too many things with the people you have had,” he said, stretching staff resources too thin.

This results in “the squeaky wheel getting the attention,” and council “spending too much money on lawyers.”

This is causing “morale issues with the staff,” he said, with high expectations set out and a limited budget to meet them.

McDonald spoke of prioritizing and gaps in vision. “You need imagination and forethought, you need to ask questions…There are no dumb questions.”

This has been described as having “a champagne appetite on a beer budget,” he said, as a perspective from the administration side.

Plus, council tends to micro manage operational issues, he said, calling this “a sign you don’t trust the management so you do it yourself.”

McDonald said council “had a really good reputation that took a hit a couple of years ago,” and said he had “some concerns” with loyalty issues.

And he warned that instead of getting as much as possible out of fewer employees, the county will have to do some serious succession planning when it comes to replacing staff that will be leaving at some point.

Calling this a “challenge,” McDonald said: “You have some serious holes to fill in the future.” Plus, staff has real health and safety concerns around the recognition of their services.

He asked council to consider what See REVIEW BCC3

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Toll Free: 1.855.221.2038 Ph: 780.663.2038 50117 Range g Road 173 (Secondary y Highway g y 854) Box 322, Ryley, y y AB T0B 4A0

Ryley Landfill and Transfer Station Hours: Weekdays 9:00 am - 4:30 pm; Saturdays / STATS 9:00 am - 3:00 pm; Closed Sundays

NOTE:customers must arrive at least 15 minutes prior to closing; Administration Offices closed from 12:00 - 1:00 pm

Lindbrook Transfer Station Hours: Tues 10:30 am - 5:30 pm; Thurs 11:30 am - 6:30 pm; Sat 10:30 - 5:30 pm

Tofield Transfer Station Hours: Wed, Fri and Sat 10:30 am - 5:30 pm

Viking Transfer Station Hours: Tues es 10:30am- 5:30pm; m; Sat10:30am-5:30pm

Kinsella Transfer Station Hours: Wed 11:00 am - 5:00 pm; Fri 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

Beaver County Chronicle, December 1, 2021 - 3

Review Continued from BCC2 the relationships to the employees have been and what are its weaknesses, stating that “(better) communication needs consideration.”

Staff are doing a “lot of overlap” work and “people have the skill set but are not allowed to use it.” Human Resources is lacking in the organization, and team building needs to be done with employees.

And staff training and development is stalled, with “certain employees being favoured over others,” he said, according to the administration perspective. There is “a wide range of issues between council and administration,” he said.

“Trust, that’s a big one,” he said. “Council and administration are respectful but it’s breaking down.”

He called CoW a “priority governance committee to receive and ask questions on complex issues and policy matters.” It matches professional advice with administrative information.

CoW meetings “make council meetings a lot shorter,” he said, because council “makes decisions much quicker

because they have the information (needed) and can debate it then.”

He added: “You’re not here to agree with everyone but you are here to be collegial, to work together.”

Council “gets in trouble” when trust breaks down and councillors don’t agree, said McDonald. “Residents see it, the media sees it…and you get in trouble.”

McDonald likened the work of county council to that of quasi-judicial proceedings that make laws and takes decisions, “like a court.” For that reason, he argued that council requires the best information to make its decisions using a CoW format where administration “can see and hear what council wants…Then you’re able to walk your way through a good quality decision.”

Reeve Kevin Smook (Division 1) told McDonald council held CoW meetings in the administration previous to the last one from 2017-2021.

But the last council went with two regular meetings.

Smook felt going back to a CoW meeting “makes a whole lot of sense.” However, some councillors felt two weeks between a CoW and regular meeting seemed too long a

CALP can Help

gap.

“A lot happens,” said Division 2 Councillor Lionel Williams, in that time.

McDonald felt communication was lacking with staff, there were uneven case loads, and a training gap that had staff with “nowhere to go” in the organization,” the result being they are “looking elsewhere.”

He also said that, “there are some critical situations that have been poorly handled,” without elaborating on what was considered a closed session point.

He said the county was going to have to face some management changes and would have to be adaptable and forward thinking.

Managing change and being adaptable in an emergency were also necessary skills.

The county needed a web upgrade, he said, and he has received complaints that phone calls were not getting returned.

The work culture has “a view that there is a lot of secrecy, which comes from a lack of trust.” McDonald also referred to a “Ryley culture” that has a strong influence on the Beaver County office located in that community.

“The message is that Beaver

County operates under the Ryley culture,” he said, after being asked by Williams what that meant. “Be careful about that because that’s how you’re seen,” said McDonald.

The council chambers is not welcoming for people to come in, he said, calling it “a tiny council chamber.” McDonald also referred to “a lot of breakdown in security and emergency management,” calling this a good topic for a CoW meeting.

The reeve’s role requires clarification with McDonald stating there was, in the previous council, “a relationship issue between the reeve and administration.”

“I heard a number of concerns changing the dynamic of council,” he said, which seemed to have “little direction.”

Administration is “feeling the squeeze…to implement decisions,” with revenue down and expectations up “People are tired, they’re working hard,” he said, which can affect motivation. It also affects the ability to problem solve, while using creativity and innovative ideas.

There is also an overall lack of morale and staff support in the organization. “Your (for-

mer) CAO basically was the director of everything and he basically just bogged down,” said McDonald.

He predicted that “the institutional memory will be walking out the door,” he said, of “good people working hard” who are trying to keep pace with the developments happening in the county.

“Employee development is needed,” McDonald said, adding that human resources needs help to increase morale and motivation with staff, and provide training.

He said having just the CAO as the only person to report to council “untenable,” and offered a different model where there were three people under the CAO. This model would “give these general managers the authority to do what they need to do.”

At a cost of $300,000 to put this in place, McDonald said the pressure would be taken off staff.

Following this review by McDonald, council went into closed session.

The county website has the county governance review in its entirety for anyone who wishes to read it, including the recommendations listed at the end of it.

FCSS Bruce Drop-In Date

4 - Beaver County Chronicle, December 1, 2021

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

Notice of Public Hearing

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

Tofield RCMP Community Engagement Survey

Beaver County Holiday Hours

NEW Small Business Classification TIME IS RUNNING OUT *NEW* SMALL BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION In early 2021, Beaver County Council established a new assessment classification for small businesses. Council recognizes that small businesses are struggling in our current economy and is considering a reduction in the tax rate for this key sector of our rural community.

To be eligible for the small business classification, a non-residential property must meet certain criteria, including a valid development/business permit, employment of fewer than 50 full-time staff, and submission of an application by the deadline date.Council will decide on the small business tax rate when the annual budget is approved in the Spring. Provincial legislation limits the tax rate to no less than 75% of the general non-residential tax rate.

To enable small businesses to take advantage of this program in the 2022 tax year, applications will be accepted on or before December 31, 2021 by e-mail, fax, or mail. Post-marked applications will not be accepted. For more information and an application form, go to the County’s website at www.beaver.ab.ca.

December 24th - Closed December 27th - Closed December 28th – Closed December 29, 30 & 31 Open 8:15am – 4:30pm January 3rd – Closed

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021 - Page 11

In the spirit of Christmas, please support our local Tofield businesses and keep our town strong!

5102 50 St., Tofield

Holden Country Bottle Depot #1 20332 Township Road 512 Sherwood Park, Alberta T8G 1E8

780-688-3378 780-632-9313

www.hastingslakevet.com

Tuesday & Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

780-662-2227

HOURS ARE:

Store Hours: Sunday 8 am - 10 pm Monday - Saturday 6 am - 10 pm

5012 48 Ave., Holden

Mon. – Fri. 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Sat. 8:30 am - 1:30 pm

TOFIELD SPIRITS BEER & LIQUOR STORE OPEN 364 DAYS A YEAR 780-662-3003 • 5031-53 Ave., Tofield Come to us for your automotive needs!

Gift Packs Special Orders Case Lot Discounts

5028 - 53 Avenue

780-662-4400

Mon. - Sat. 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Sun. 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. #101 5116 46 Ave., Parkstone Plaza,Tofield

780-662-0307 Season s Greetings!

780-662-4014

Tofield Autobody (1987) Ltd.

With these troubled times that we are experiencing, it is even more important than ever to support local repair facilities.

4908-52 Ave. 780-662-3432

Please, when you report your accident or claim, tell them you want to repair it at the LOCAL shop in your community.

Tell them it is going to be fixed at Tofield Autobody.

Page 12 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Second Annual Hastings Lake Lights bring smiles Moush John Tofield Mercury

Hastings Lake Bible Camp hosted their second annual this past

weekend.

The event, which was created as a fundraiser after the Camp was forced to shut down because of the pandemic, is a drive-thru event, with

the main RV campground being converted to a ‘winter wonderland.’

“As all of the regular in-person fundraisers were also not possible,

Hastings Lights was created as a fundraiser that didn’t rely on face-toface gathering or indoor venues,” said Andrew Carlson, Camp Director.

“It quickly gained

Kids take in the lights at the event.

traction with the greater community and region, and we’ve welcomed more than 1,250 people in 2020.”

With each of the 15 sites being decorated with unique and homemade light displays, the campground has become a major attraction.

“We had many people, organizations, and supporters asking if Hast-

ings Lights would run again ithis year, and so, a tradition is born, and we hope to continue this,” Carlson added. “This weekend we saw more than 1,300 people over the thre nights we held it.”

According to Carlson, light displays were provided by local families, Continued on Page 17

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021 - Page 13

L

THE LAMONT

Affordable Advertising with

The

Classifieds

CLASSIFIED AD RATES

$10.75 minimum for first 25 words, 39¢ per word thereafter (G.S.T. not included) PICTURE BOLD $10 $5 ALL CLASSIFIED ADS MUST BE PREPAID BEFORE INSERTION unless customer has an account in good standing.

WEEKLY REVIEW 780-336-3422 vikingreview @gmail.com TOFILED MERCURY 780-662-4046 adsmercury @gmail.com LAMONT LEADER 780-895-2780 lmtleader @gmail.com ______________________

COMING EVENTS COMING EVENTS HELP US PUT A LID ON IT Please support our efforts to fix the roof on the CN train station Tea House and Art Guild in Viking, AB Donations can be made by: -e-transfer to vikingstationgallery @gmail.com -Cheques payable to Station Gallery and Art Centre Guild, P.O. Box 997, Viking, Alta T0B 4N0 -Donation box at Station Tea House Tax receipts are available for donations exceeding $10. Requests for receipts made to Betty Klein. tfnc

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COMING EVENTS COMING EVENTS

FOR FOR RENT RENT

HELP HELP WANTED WANTED

SERVICES SERVICES

Viking United Church Candlelight Service Sunday, December 12 at 7:00 p.m.

Masks Required Donations for the Christmas Hamper Program accepted Service will be posted on Facebook.

House for Sale or Rent - 5316 57 Ave in Viking. 4 bedroom 2 bath. Large backyard with detached garage. across from playground. Available December 1, 2021. No smokers, no pets, damage deposit required.

References required. $1,000/month rent. Call Dennis Bird at 780-336-2369 (house) 780-385-5689 (cell) or Laura at 780-385-2043 for more info!

The Viking Agricultural Society is accepting applications for the position of caretaker for the Community Hall.

Duties Include: •Regular upkeep of the Viking Community Hall •Taking bookings for events •Doing yearly cleaning •Snow removal and outside maintenance Please provide a current resume to Sheila Erickson at erickson_sheila@hotmail.com.

We appreciate all applications, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. A detailed list of the duties will be provided as well as monthly and yearly duties that will need to be completed. The end date to have resumes in is December 8, 2021. ______________________

Roy's Handyman Services.

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

Call 780-232-3097

48/49c ___________________________ Mission to Many Kids Shopping Day Saturday December 11th from 11am-4pm.

All children 12 and under will receive $10 of free store credit to purchase gifts.

No other purchase necessary.

We will wrap and label all gifts purchased.

Located at our Thrifty Treasures Store 4920 53rd Viking.

Check us out on Facebook @ Mission to Many 48/49c ___________________________ Seniors Christmas Supper December 5 at the Seniors Centre Doors Open at 5 p.m.

Supper at 6 p.m. $20/person Proof of Vaccination Required Entertainment by Bob Williams Preregister by December 1 Phone 780-336-2678 47/48p ______________________

FOR FOR RENT RENT New Business?

Want to Relocate?

Premium Office Space location for lease on Main Street, Tofield.

30 minutes from Sherwood Park!

•1,500 Square Feet •New Paint •Air Conditioning •Security system •3 private offices with Reception area and front desk •Separate Coffee room with Kitchen •Available January 1, 2022 •$1,375/month email Kerry for viewing kamcjm@gmail.com 48p ___________________________ 2 bdrmn Viking available Dec. 1.

Comes with Fridge, Stove, Washer, Dryer. Utilities included. Call 780-336-6089 or 780336-6088 for more details.

46tfnc

43tfnc ______________________

GIVE AWAY GIVE AWAY The Weekly Review office in Viking has a few bags of bottles and cans if any non-profit groups are collecting. First come first serve. Stop by our office to inquire!

48p ______________________

HELP HELP WANTED WANTED APIARIES OF ALBERTA are looking for Five Apiary Technicians $17-$19/hr depending on experience for full time (40+hrs/wk) employment March thru October 2022. Must have a min of 3 years (seasons) working fulltime on Canadian style commercial apiary in the minimum capacity of Apiary Assistant.

Also required, two positions for Apiary Worker (NOC8431) $15$17/hr, experience required.

Work includes assisting Apiary Technician with all duties in the bees and honey harvesting.

Gerard 780-662-4449 RR4 Tofield, AB. gsieben@mcsnet.ca TM48/02p ___________________________ WE TRAIN from SHOP HAND to UPHOLSTERER. Skills required: Manual dexterity, mechanically inclined, physically fit, strong. Desire to learn Custom car, boat, bike Upholstery. F/T $35,000 $45,000 while training, $55,000+ when trained. ARTISAN UPHOLSTERY 21432 Highway 14.

780-297-5123. www.amultd.com for job details 48/49p ___________________________ Class 1 oilfield driver. 3 years experience necessary. Fax resume, safety tickets, and CDA to: 780-662-3368 or email: rwwhlt@mcsnet.ca.

Does your club have an event planned?

Advertise in the Classifieds

MISSING MISSING Yearling Heifer brand MAC on left rib. 6 miles north of Bruce Stampede Grounds. Reward offered. Text info to 780-6329928 48/49p ______________________

SERVICES SERVICES Painting Quality Residential and Commercial Painting Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749 or 780-688-3564 tfnp ___________________________ "Sue's Cleaning Service" Professional Residential & Commercial cleaning. Over 20 years experience. Excellent references. I am in the Holden area.

Call or text me. #780-221-7744.

48p ___________________________ Drywall Taping/Texturing 35+ Years No Job too small!

Experienced drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job big or small. Don't want to do it yourself, give me a call! Based in Killam but willing to travel Hand taper by trade but have experience with boxes, roller/flusher, taping tube. No bazooka exp.

Have own tools (10-12" boxes, pump, angle box, roller, flusher, hand tools, etc.) Also do ceiling texture. Non-drinker, just want to work. Willing to work with existing taping crew. Call 780-3852106 or 780-385-1251. tfnp

tfn ___________________________ Carpet and upholstery cleaning - residential and commercial.

Truck mount unit, sewer backup, and flood cleaning. Auto and RV cleaning. Call Glenn and Cindi Poyser, Fancy Shine Auto and Carpet Care at (780) 384-3087 tfnc ___________________________ For all your local livestock and hay hauling services: D & H Outlaw Transport Darian Kozak 403-740-2934 780-888-7441 (Dispatch) tfnp ___________________________ 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 tfnc ___________________________ Need to re-order: •Company Forms?

•Invoices?

•Envelopes?

•Business Cards?

•Bookmarks?

•Score Cards?

•Certificates?

•Receipts?

•Posters?

•Menus?

•Invitations?

•Calendars?

•Letterheads?

Call your local paper with your print order today!

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 tfnp

Page 14 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Business & Professional Oilfield & Energy Small Ads - $50/month

Automotive

Medium Ads - $80/month

Equine Services

Tofield Autobody *COLLISION REPAIR SPECIALISTS *WINDSHIELD REPAIRED & REPLACED

780-662-3432

For your automotive, farm and industrial supplies

• Boarding • Beginner to advanced lessons • Clinics

Contact the Mercury 780-662-4046 adsmercury@gmail.com

Large Ads - $160/month

Insurance

• Colt Starting • Lessons • Mileage/Fine Tuning

• Tofield 780-662-0165

• Equine First Aid

• Mundare

TS Training Services

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Commercial • Farm • Holden Auto • Home Recreational • Hail 780-688-3865

Health & Beauty

780-662-3212 After hours: 780-662-4574 or 780-662-0017

Todd Ritchie Financial Advisor Ritchie Agencies Insurance Ltd 5036 53 Ave | Tofield 780-662-3833 www.cooperators.ca/Ritchie-Agencies

For your vehicle parts needs FREE vehicle removal Cash paid for some Please call ahead for appointment confirmation Vehicle Removal: Weekdays AM Saturdays PM

Home Auto Life Investments Group Business Farm Travel

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Construction LICENSED INSURED

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• Siding, Soffits & Facias • Windows, Doors & Capping • Decks, Railings & Ramps • Shingles & Metal Roofing • Overhead Doors • Concrete Repair • Basement Development

• Bathroom Remodeling • Kitchen upgrades • Foundation Repair • Drywall Board & Tape • Paint & Texturing • Flooring & Tiling • Garages & Additions

No job too small, call to book your project!

Electrical

Heavy Duty Mechanic Heavy Duty Mechanic Services - Mobile & Shop -

780-686-6344 Agriculture~Construction~Tractor/Trailer

Meat Packers 5020 - 50 Ave., Tofield, AB HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

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Phone 662-4842 for Appt Phone 780-662-4842 for Appt.

Fresh Meat & Sausage Counter

CALL THE TOFIELD MERCURY TO ADVERTISE!

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021 - Page 15

Business & Professional Oilfield & Energy Small Ads - $50/month

Medium Ads - $80/month

Real Estate

Plumbing & Heating B&M

Contact the Mercury 780-662-4046 adsmercury@gmail.com

Large Ads - $160/month

Veterinary Clinic

Kevin Smook

PLUMBING AND HEATING INC

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HOURS: Mon., Tues., Thurs. and Fri.: 8:30am-5:30pm Wednesdays: 8:30am-7:00pm Saturdays: 8:30am-1:30pm

CALL THE TOFIELD MERCURY 780-662-4046 FOR YOUR ADVERTISING NEEDS!

INVEST IN YOUR BUSINESS. Advertise in the Tofield Mercury Business Directory!

• Accounting & • Taxes • • Acreage Services • • Agriculture • • Automotive • • Bookkeeping • Catering • • Concrete Services • • Construction • • Custom Work • • Dental •

Dog Grooming Electrical Equine Services Health & Beauty Heavy Duty Mechanic Home Accessories Insurance Law Services Landscaping Meat Packers

• Painting • Plumbing & Heating • Real Estate • Rental Equipment • Roofing • Thermal Imaging • Trucking • Septic Services • Veterinary Clinic • Water Hauling • Welding Services

Page 16 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Remember When

NEW EMPLOYEE: Tom Warwa, at UAP/NAPA and his new local employee, Chris Lindberg on Chris’ first day of work. This photo appeared in The Tofield Mercury dated Dec. 5, 1995.

Blanket Alberta Ads take approximately 10 days to process _________________________ AUCTIONS AUCTIONS ONLINE AUCTION BLACK FOREST German Bakery, Olds, AB. Dispersal including electric stone ovens, dough mixers, vertical coolers & freezers, kitchen equip., small wares, hand trucks & more. See www.montgomeryauctions.com or call 1800-371-6963. _________________________ UNRESERVED REAL ESTATE ONLINE AUCTION, Viking, Alberta. Closing Dec. 13, 2021.

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The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $995 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 90 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@awna.com for details. 1-800-282-6903, 7804 3 4 - 8 7 4 6 X225. www.awna.com.

These blanket classified ads are produced through a joint agreement by The Community Press, Viking Weekly Review, Lamont Leader, Tofield Mercury and Alberta Weekly Newspaper Association (AWNA).

These ads appear in all AWNA member papers (120 papers) for the cost of $269.00 (+gst) for the first 25 words, $8.00 per word over 25. To place a blanket classified, call a CARIBOU PUBLISHING representative at 780-385-6693 or email ads@thecommunitypress.com.

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HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-453-5372. _________________________ FEEDAND AND SEED FEED SEED ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh.

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_________________________ LAND FOR FOR SALE LAND SALE EXCELLENT HUNTING REC LAND on Sask River. Elk, Bear, Deer, Moose, lots of bush, water rights an hour from major cities. Sub-dividable. 160 acres with 320 possible. Call Doug @ 306-716-2671. _________________________ PRIME HIGHLY ASSESSED FARMLAND SOUTH OF REGINA. 2 quarters $488,000.00 assessed. Excellent farmer for long term lease. Also, 4 quarters of good farmland with Oil Revenue. Call Doug @ 306-716-2671. _________________________

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Deadline for Blanket Classifieds is Wednesday at 4 p.m.

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021 - Page 17

Hastings Lake Lights Continued from Page 12

friend groups, couples, churches, and businesses, while cookies and hot chocolate were provided by the camp and the Lefse House Scandinavian bakery in Camrose to each car that came through.

“The whole event has already evolved into a weekend that the entire region is supporting and looking forward to each year,” he said. “Many of the folks who came in 2020 came again this year, and kept raving about how this event has

raised their spirits, given them hope in a dark time and made them feel connected with their community.

“For Hastings Lake Bible Camp, the opportunity to love our neighbours as Jesus taught us, is one that we love having, and are happy to provide to as many friends and families as possible!”

Hastings Lake Bible Camp started in 1938 and has been serving the Tofield area and beyond by providing summer camps for all ages.

“The camp facilities are also available

throughout the year for other groups and organizations to rent for their own events, retreats and reunions,” explained Carlson. “The outdoor heated swimming pool is also a summer favourite for locals during public swim times and for swimming lessons operated by Strathcona County.”

Carlson further explained that after being closed in 2020, overnight camps were opened up again in 2021 and saw great attendance during all camp weeks offered.

“A Day Camp program was also spear-

headed and held in five Alberta town churches, for those campers who weren’t yet comfortable with attending overnight summer camp.”

Carlson said that all donations received through this event will go to support the operation of Hastings Lake Bible Camp in its mission to ‘Make Christ Known’ and provide a wholesome and fun summer camp experience to people of all ages.

“Food bank donations were also collected for Tofield Food Bank.”

DO YOU HAVE A SUBSCRIPTION YET? Go to Page 3, and check out our Christmas Offer

Camrose has everything you need for you this holiday season. Skip the long lines and hectic traffic and join us in Camrose for holiday shopping without the big city hassle! www.camrose.ca | 780.672.4426

Another light display at the event.

Page 18 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021

AVAILABLE JANUARY 1st, 2022 New business? Want to re-locate?

Premium OFFICE SPACE location for lease on Main Street, Tofield (Former Brokerlink space in the Tofield Mercury building) • 1,500 square feet • New paint • Air Conditioning • Security system • Reception area with front desk • 3 private offices

• Room for 6-7 work spaces • Separate coffee room with kitchen Email Kerry Anderson for viewing or use as a private meeting room! kamcjm@gmail.com • Binding legal lease to be signed • Available Jan 1, 2022 or $1,375/mo. (1 year or up to 5 years) possibly sooner to the right person

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021 - Page 19

Keep the conversation going!

Facebook.com/TofieldMercury Twitter.com/TofieldMercury

Sports

Email us your sport roundups and scores news.tofield@gmail.com

Tofield goalie Jacob Bigney gets the win for his Strathcona U15 AA Kerry Anderson Tofield Mercury

These are some of the results from Minor Hockey League games held recently.

Tofield U11 (2-1-1) won a 4-2 game on Sunday at home against Onoway. Tofield was down 2-1 after the first but fought back for the win. Scoring for Tofield were; Austin Williams (1g 1a), Lennox Fritz, Kale Hart, and Aiden Baraniuk. Tysen Boese and Treyton Norman got assists.

Tofield U13 (1-4-1) lost a 7-1 game at home on Saturday against Thunderstars.

Baylee Roberts scored Tofield’s only goal, assisted by Karter Waldo and Brandon Jardine.

Tofield-2 U13 (3-3-0) dropped a 6-2 game at home against Thorsby on Sunday. The teams were tied 2-2 after two,

before Thorsby put away the game in the final frame. Merek Fritz scored both Tofield goals. Assists went to; Gabriel Thorson (2a), and Brooke Jeffrey.

Tofield U15 (0-5-0) dropped an 8-7 game against Redwater at Tofield Arena on Saturday. Redwater jumped out to a 6-0 first period lead before the home team came back with four unanswered goals in the middle frame.

Redwater made it 7-4 early in the third but Tofield struck twice by the middle of the third to get within a goal. Redwater replied less than a minute later to regain the two goal lead, though Tofield struck again with 5:26 remaining to make the remainder of the game thrilling as the home team pressured for the tie. Scoring for Tofield were; Owen Rennie (1g 2a), Cheyenne Suchy (2g),

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Amy Lynn Fraser (1g 1a), Noah Peterson (1g 1a), Koston McNabb (2a), Ryan Conrad (1g), Nick Tooke (1g), Brady Suchy (1a), Colben Pedersen (1a), and Brandon Warawa (1a).

Tofield U18 (4-2-0) lost a 3-1 game at home against Smoky Lake on

Saturday with Kien Yuha scoring and Zach Lungal assisting. On Sunday at Warburg, Tofield lost a 3-1 road game with Kevin Bartsch scoring and Marshal Korpak assisting.

Tofield goalie Jacob Bigney got the win in

his Strathcona U15 AA elite hockey team’s 3-2 win over SSAC on Saturday.

Tofield’s Landon Van Engelen picked up an assist in his first place Fort Saskatchewan U18 AAA Rangers (13-1-2) 42 win over Maple Leafs on Saturday.

Tofield’s Ty Yoder scored a goal in his AJHL Okotoks Oilers 53 win over Whitecourt on Saturday.

Please note that scores and scoring is taken from the websites, and some game scores and scoring is dependent on proper league entries.

INCLUDE YOUR BUSINESS in OUR

Christmas Greetings

SECTION Wish your Customers & Neighbours well this year and thank them for their business!

Ads range from $30 to $595!

Get noticed by thousands for less than the cost to mail out some cards

D E A D L I N E : Dec D e c .14 1 7at a tNoon 12pm Deadline: CALL US TODAY: 780-662-4046 FAX US: 780-662-3735

EMAIL: adsmercury@gmail.com

Join numerous other local businesses!

Page 20 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Fill the Tree!

We’re again raising money for the Tofield, Ryley & Area food bank this year!

With a minimum $5 don tion, you can a d your name to the t ee!

Cash or Cheque only.

Stop by The Tofield Mercury office in (donation (do (d (don do onattion io on amount amo am mo ount nt not no ot listed). lis is ste ed) d).

Tofield or mail Last 3 years, we’ve your donation to: • Tofield Mercury PO Box 150, raised • Michelle, Kerry, Tofield, AB. Garrett & Brennan It’s been a tough year, Anderson • Moush John T0B 4J0 let’s do what we can again • Lisa, Derick, Kylie, Cody, Keifer

$5,400!

& Colton Kuflay • Sarah, Cory, for those in need!

Caitlyn, Hailey, Riley & Abby McLaughlin • Catherine Baldwin • Darrell O’Donnell • Claire Thomas • Lorna-Jean Lockerby • Braided Mane Hair Company • Marilyn & Wayne Lysons • Theresa Manderson • Liam, Emelie & Jacksen LeBlanc • Francoise & Claude LeBlanc • Marg & Don Wyllie • Beaverhill Bird Observatory • Stewart Ferguson • Rose & Joe Yurkowski • Marilyn & Ken Bruha • Gal & Dexter • Fran & Kevin MacGillivray • Dana & Richard Koss • Bernice & Bruce Peters • Linda Lyons • Darlene Williams • Raymond Peterson • Joanne & Armand Goubault • Violet & Ed Gara • Ann Armstrong • Florence Chubaty & Family • Mr. & Mrs. Anonymous

We don’t keep a single dime.

It ALL goes to the right place!

HELP US FILL THE TREE!