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Canada Day 2020 to go virtual from coast to coast

CW Sears grows vegetables for Tofield, Ryley, and Area Food Bank

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Wednesday June 24, 2020 Vol. 102 Issue 43

$1 INCLUDING GST

Kindergarten students end the year with a drive-by graduation

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Beaver County Victim Services hosts Ron Robinson Memorial

Great weather on Tuesday, June 23 brought a total of 22 teams and players to participate in the Annual Ron Robinson Memorial Golf Tournament at the Tofield Golf Club. One of their major fundraisers, the community supported this cause as they came to tee off. A staple for more than 25 years, Program Manager Karlana Noel said that the support of community members, enables them to provide emergency support to victims of crime and trauma. Seen here with a group of golfers is the Beaver County Victim Services team. From left, Asst. program managers Melissa Radford and Jaylynn Umphrey; and Program Manager Karlana Noel.

For story and more images get your copy of the Mercury, July 1. MOUSH JOHN PHOTO

Page 2 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Canada Day to go virtual Moush John Tofield Mercury

This year for the first time in history, Canada Day celebrations will be going virtual.

In a time of cancellations and closures, this is another event that’s been affected by COVID-19.

On Monday, june 15, Steven Guilbeault, the minister of Canadian heritage, announced that the government has decided to celebrate the annual milestone in a different way.

“Since the beginning of this crisis, Canadians have shown solidarity with one another. Every day, we witness the caring, generosity and resilience of people right across the country,” Guilbeault said in a statement.

There’s an exciting and engaging lineup of artists and performers, with the roster of activities drawing on what makes Canada strong: its diverse cultures, athletic and artistic excellence, Indigenous languages and

cultures, and our spirit of innovation.

According to the statement, through the magic of technology, there will be a virtual fireworks show on the evening of Wednesday, July 1.

There is also a salute to the 40th anniversary of “O Canada!” as our official national anthem, as well as a host of other events.

The Town of Tofield has also cancelled all activities usually associated with Canada Day, including the parade.

Happy

The Tofield Mercury will be available on newstands on Thursday, July 2nd.

Advertising deadline for the week of July 1st is Monday, June 29th by 5:00 p.m.

We will be closed on Wednesday, July 1st and reopen on Thursday, July 2nd.

H a p p y B i r t h d a y,

Canada!

From . . .

Jackie Lovely MLA, CAMROSE CONSTITUENCY OFFICE: #104, 4870-51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1 Phone: 780-672-0000 Fax: 780-672-6945 Email: camrose@assembly.ab.ca

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020 - Page 3

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From the Tofield Ag Society

The Town of Tofield wishes everyone a happy Canada Day! Stay safe!

Page 4 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020

The origins of Canada Day July is an important month for much of North America. While the United States celebrates its independence on July 4, Canada kicks off the

patriotic party a few days earlier with its own special holiday.

Each July 1, Canada celebrates Canada Day. Canada Day marks the

Happy Canada Day! Tofield

5111-50 Street • Ph: 780-662-3553

British North America Act – today known as the Constitution Act – which went into effect on July 1, 1867. This act established the country of Canada with its initial provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Canada (which later would become Ontario and Quebec).

The provinces asked to form one Dominion with a Constitution similar in principle to that of the United Kingdom. British Parliament passed the legislation, and Canada became a new, domestically self-governing federation.

Nearly a year later, on

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Canada Day has been celebrated for more than 150 years and marks a pivotal moment in Canadian history. This eyar for the first time celebrations will be virtual.

June 20, 1868, Governor General Lord Charles Stanley Monck signed a proclamation that requested all Her Majesty’s subjects across Canada to celebrate July 1 in honour of the establishment of the country. Monck served as the last Governor General of the Province of Canada and the first Governor General of the country of Canada after

the Canadian Confederation.

In 1879, a federal law made July 1 a statutory holiday as the “anniversary of Confederation,” which would later be called “Dominion Day.” The holiday further evolved on October 27, 1982, when Dominion Day was renamed “Canada Day.” Each year, Canada Day is marked by many dif-

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ferent celebrations. A flag ceremony on the lawns of Parliament Hill, military music and fireworks are typical Canada Day festivities.

At home, individuals host barbecues and proudly display their flags.

Canada Day has been celebrated for more than 150 years and marks a pivotal moment in Canadian history.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020 - Page 5

Loose Ends: Spooked!

Carol Livingstone Tofield Mercury Columnist

I’m a little spooked. A recent horoscope told me that ‘the veil to the other world grows thinner and a meaningful message

from a loved one is likely to arrive.’

I’d be more spooked if reading my daily horoscope was anything more than a giggle each morning. Half the time it doesn’t even make sense.

But I’ve never before been told that I’ll ‘likely’ be talking to the dead. I immediately wondered which loved one; could I expect a visitation from Spike, our family dog when I was young, in the middle of my afternoon nap? I’d be okay with

that; if I actually believed in ghosts Spike popping up in a white sheet to lick my face would only make me jump a foot or two.

Of course, the message is only ‘likely’ to arrive. If they are sending it via Canada Post or UPS, good luck with that, even if they supply me with a tracking number. Meanwhile I’m hearing voices everywhere; humming when the fridge comes on; whispering when it rains; hissing when the coffee machine starts; sighing

when I plop down onto my chair and grumbling when I’ve missed lunch.

But really, given our current circumstances, Heaven is a long way off and any messages from beyond that make it through are apt to be garbled and full of white noise.

To keep my mind off the spooks I’ve been watching the little birds out back.

They are small but eat like they hope to bulk up into eagles or maybe pterodactyls.

Vegetable garden at CW Sears Moush John Tofield Mercury

The CW Sears School has been instrumental in nurturing gardens, tended to by staff and students, the produce being donated to the Tofield, Ryley and Area Food Bank.

“A few years ago I decided we should have gardens at the school and when I checked with the staff there was a lot of interest,” said Principal Emily Coykendall. “Each year we have different grade levels or different students

planting the gardens and harvesting them.

Gardening fits well into the grade one and grade four science curriculums.”

This year they had the Reeves family plant.

“They have children in different grade levels and they were interested in planting it this year,” she added. “ We also planted potatoes, carrots, beets, and zucchini.”

Coykendall explained how the act of gardening has been a great exercise in social responsibility for the

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kids, and since all the harvest is donated to the local Food Bank, it becomes worth the while to invest and create that sense of activity.

According to Coykendall most of the seeds are donated by various greenhouses or individuals, which makes this possible.

“The seeds were donated by Holes Greenhouses, who give us a lot of free seeds!” she said. “One of our EAs, Joan Regerh and one of our maintenance men, Regan Bergstrom do-

Make sure they know you want your vehicle brought to

TOFIELD AUTOBODY You can choose where your vehicle is taken for repair unless: • Your vehicle is impounded • You’re unable to express your wishes or • You don’t have written emergency instructions

The Tofield Mercury • 5312-50 St. Ph: 662-4046 • Fax: 662-3735

NOTICE The Town of Tofield, under Section 311 of the Municipal Government Act, Chapter M-26.1, and this publication, advises that the combined tax and assessment notices of the municipality have been mailed. All assessed persons are deemed to have received their combined tax and assessment notices as a result of this publication.

• Complete collision service • Windshield Repair & Replacement • All Insurance Companies • Guaranteed Workmanship

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Phone: 780-662-0112 If your find a tick on your dog, cat or horse, we would be happy to submit it for you. Or, if you’d rather avoid ticks all together, give us a call to pick up some preventative medication.

If you find a tick on your person, your pet, or simply in the wild, please submit it to the Alberta submit-a-tick program. This program informs officials on tick numbers in Alberta, and if disease carrying populations are establishing themselves in the province.

Learn more about ticks and lyme disease: https://www.albertaanimalhealthsource.ca/content/ticks-alberta-what-you-need-know Contact your veterinarian if you have questions relating to tick prevention, checking your pet for ticks, lyme disease, or if you require assistance in removal.

UPDATED HOURS

squawking and pooping on the deck.

Wait a minute: maybe my meaningful message is being delivered right now, via our little feathered friends. I don’t speak bird but maybe if I listen more closely . . . Yes, there’s something familiar . . .

Spike? Is that you, fella?

Aren’t you the best doggy? Yes you are.

Speak, Spike, speak!

Just kidding. Spike was the smartest black Lab ever but he only spoke dog.

Cindy Neufeld Chief Administrative Officer

Continued on Page 8

Come into the Tofield Mercury and check out our selection of rubber and self-inking stamps!

Hubby finally had to buy the giant economy sized bag of seed, just to keep up. They are also messy, littering the ground with seeds. Then they clean up after themselves; haven’t done a head count but some days the area around the base of the tree looks like teenagers at a rock concert. Sounds like it too. Eating and talking simultaneously. We’re not complaining since twenty or more small birds pigging out and partying means there’s no crows

Our business hours have temporarily changed.

MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8 - 5

We look forward to offering evening appointments again in the future. Equine Emergency 24/7, 365 days.

ROADSIDE SPRAYING PROGRAM

Emcon Services Inc. will start a ROADSIDE SPRAYING PROGRAM along Provincial Highways as required to control the spread of weeds and brush starting in June through to September in North central Alberta in and around the following areas: Camrose County No. 22 Flagstaff County Beaver County Municipal District of Wainwright No.61 County of Vermilion River County of Minburn No.27 County of Two Hills No.21 Lamont County Strathcona County Landowners who do not want the ditches adjacent to their property sprayed may be granted an annual “No Spray Agreement” stating that they accept responsibility for control of weeds and brush in the ditch along their property. For more information, or to complete a “No Spray Agreement” please call 780-449-0502 or contact your nearest Emcon Location.

Page 6 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Keep the conversation going!

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Opinion

Email us your letter to the editor: news.tofield@gmail.com

Canada’s golden goose wants a Fair Deal

EDITORIAL Kerry Anderson Tofield Mercury Publisher

The results of last week’s Fair Deal Panel report confirmed to Albertans what we have already known for decades: We’re getting screwed in Confederation. Alberta’s continuous payments through equalization and other federal programs have resulted in our province sharing $661 billion more with the Federal Government than the pittance we have received back since the sharing program’s inception in 1961.

That’s $11.2 billion per year that the fourth largest province with only 12 per cent of the Canadian population has been paying on average annually (not including inflation). Quebec, the province least economically friendly to

historically generous Alberta, has received over $200 billion.

Alberta’s debt, including Covid relief, will likely be well over $100 billion at present. If it weren’t for our history of federal payments, we could completely pay off our debt and still have over onehalf trillion dollars in the bank (not including interest).

The Fair Deal Panel will be having a referendum on equalization in the future as well as reviewing the following; Alberta having its own pension plan rather than paying an unproportionate amount to the federal CPP; forming our own provincial police force rather than employ the costly federal RCMP; eliminating trade barriers between provinces to improve relations and keep more money in Canada; and controlling Alberta’s own immigration numbers.

Premier Kenney has said unequivocally that he doesn’t believe in Alberta

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

separation, yet in the past year the number of Albertans in favour of separation has grown from 25 per cent to 33 per cent. If it continues to grow, it is something he will be forced to consider.

There are still millions of citizens and dozens of politicians in Canada who call the natural resources which have produced the billions we have shared, “dirty.”

They plan to continue to do anything

in their powers to block pipelines and ban oil tankers despite hypocritically taking equalization money from Alberta yearly.

Unfortunately, it has taken a federal government which has decided to try to kill Alberta’s Golden Goose rather than harvest its golden eggs, before we began taking action. Now that we are, we can only hope it doesn’t move at normal glacial government speeds.

In any case this is a wonderful start for Alberta.

If you would like to let the Premier know you support a referendum on equalization email him: premier@gov.ab.ca and remember we can’t just force a referendum – we have to win the referendum in Alberta.

Great time to donate blood Canadian Blood Services is reminding us all that through the Covid-19 outbreak it

is important to make sure to continue to donate blood. One of the main risks during such a crisis is shortages of blood.

As restrictions ease on the pandemic, it might be a good time to check to see how you can help fill up the blood bank. Face masks are required for safety reasons and if you don’t bring your own, a mask will be supplied to you. As well, there will be a temperature check for all donors.

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Kerry Anderson

Moush John

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*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, June 24, 2020 - Page 7

Get the local community

Tofield and Area Church Directory

news at your doorstep!

Subscribe to us today.

Call 780-662-4046

Tofield Alliance Bardo Lutheran Church Because of COVID-19 our Church

WANTED DEAD OR ALIVE

Canadian Prairie Pickers are once again touring the area!

Paying Cash For Coin Collections, Silver & Gold Coins, Royal Can. Mint Sets.

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PAYING HIGHEST PRICES To arrange a free, discrete in-home visit

call Kellie at 778-257-8647

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

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 email: beaverpastoralcharge@gmail.com We will continue to pray for all our on Sundays @ 8:50 am on community as we remain strong and http://www.uocc-we.ca/ Rev. Adam Hall trust in our Heavenly Father.

WISHING EVERYONE A HAPPY CANADA DAY!

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Page 8 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Vegetable garden

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Phone: 780-499-2017 Email: rj_lee@live.ca

Continued from Page 5

nated seed potatoes so it’s been a joint effort.”

For now the staff and students of CW Sears have decided to focus on root vegetables because they last a long time and can be harvested in the fall season.

Principal Emily Coykendall shows some of the vegetables that’s scheduled for sprouting soon. MOUSH JOHN PHOTO

for Thank you to the Miskew Family, Tech Masters Inc., and Deanna & Mark LeBlanc for purchasing Gavin Oslund’s 4-H steer this year!

SALUTE TO THE RCMP OFFICERS!

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BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP Closed June 20th – August 23rd Look forward to seeing you in the fall!

Serving all the farms, ranches, acreages and towns in Beaver County

Bruce, Holden, Kinsella Ryley, Tofield, Viking

Phone 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB

Chronicle The Beaver County

A Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County Wednesday, June 24, 2020, Volume 13, Issue 26

Beaver County holds live hearing on BMS controlled corporation Virtual meeting last week had four written submissions Patricia Harcourt Beaver Municipal Solutions’ bid to become a municipally controlled corporation was discussed at a virtual public hearing hosted by Beaver County on June 17.

But the results weren’t adequate as county councillors met afterward and agreed to hold another hearing July 15, this time in a live format so people could come and speak in person.

At the meeting last week, there were four submissions from county residents with one openly in favour of the municipally controlled corporation and three others with questions.

“I think there are some very valid questions and concerns,” said Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec, adding he looked forward to the responses from BMS on these questions.

Hrabec said he would have preferred holding a live meeting instead of the virtual one that was presented and suggested holding a second live hearing as the rules around COVID-19 have since changed.

Hrabec wanted to let the public know, “so people could attend with verbal submissions.” He said there are residents who would like to attend who previously couldn’t, but since the rules had now changed it was possible to hold the live meeting.

Hrabec’s motion to reconvene another public hearing at 1 p.m. on July 15 was passed.

All municipalities within and including Beaver County are holding similar hearings as each is part of the Beaver Municipal Solutions regional landfill commission.

The proposal is to transfer operations to a new corporate entity called Claystone Waste Limited Partnership, with the five municipalities as the sole partners in this “new waste provider.”

Electronic meetings are being allowed by the province during this time of COVID-19, but the county will now hold an in person hearing where people can physically attend.

At the electronic virtual meeting last week, Hamlet of Bruce resident Al Reynolds asked many questions concerning the perceived advantage of incorporating, the powers of general partnership and management of a limited partnership,

expanding future operations and affects on a partner or surrounding communities.

“The last of my concerns is related to Claystone’s vision for future business involvement,” he stated.

“Recycling of waste is of course a virtue of the angels. The devil is in the details.”

He said recycling was a ‘perilous’ initiative due to issues such as economics, environmental issues, labour costs and Third World countries which no longer want trash from other more well off countries.

And he warned against Claystone taking on an existing or hazardous waste dump that should be discouraged by limiting Claystone’s charter. He urged the county to get legal advice independent of both parties.

Beaver County resident and lawyer John Hunter congratulated the county for its initial approval of the proposal to change BMS to a municipal corporation.

Hunter was Reeve of Beaver County and Mayor of Viking during the years of forming and constructing the current landfill at Ryley.

The change to Claystone Waste Ltd. will allow it “to expand business opportunities and revenues for member partners of the area. The minister’s oversight of the landfill will not be further required and will not encumber Claystone Waste in its expansion of needed business opportunities.”

He concluded with the remarks: “Great idea.

Let’s get it done.”

Kevin McCoy asked several questions. He wondered what the Good Neighbour Policy was and where it was going.

As a taxpayer living north of the landfill, he said: “We need better say in what is going on at the landfill.”

McCoy asked why the towns of Viking and Tofield were getting more money than the landowners living around the landfill who are most affected by it.

“This is the only agreement they have kept since the start of it,” he said. “They have not kept any of the other agreements that they had stated. Why should we trust them now?”

Other concerns were the road condition leading from the landfill to Highway 14, trucks pulling out

of the landfill onto the highway without stopping, staff hired from out of the county.

“This is my opinion and neighbours I have spoken to,” he wrote. “I have no problem with the landfill. I think it is great for our county but let’s just be fair to the people that are affected the most by it.”

RPAC (Ryley Public Advisory Committee) sent a submission expressing concerns that Claystone would operate under the same rules as the privately owned Waste Management Landfill in Thorhild County but give little back to the affected people and communities.

That landfill has an agreement “to insure that Thorhild County and the area residents are properly compensated for hosting the facility,” stated the submission. “There is no such agreement in Beaver County.”

RPAC pointed out that Thorhild County gets a $50,000 per year hosting fee, plus $2.50 per tonne of waste royalty fee, “which is guaranteed even if Waste Management doesn’t make a profit.

“In Beaver County, the dividend the county receives from the landfill depends on the commission making a profit and if something goes ‘sideways’ and the don’t make a profit…the county could end up taking in hundreds of thousands of tonnes of garbage for nothing.

“This is not right! The county should be getting a guaranteed per/tonne of waste hosting fee and a dividend payment if the commission makes a profit. Currently, the hosting fee the county gets is the Good Neighbour Grant, which amounts to four cents per tonne of waste disposed of in the landfill, which is an absolute insult to the people of Beaver County,” RPAC stated.

It recommended such a deal as Thorhild County has with its waste management facility should be worked out prior to agreeing to the Municipally Controlled Corporation.

“This compensation must be fair and be part of the landfill operating costs, and it cannot be contingent on the commission making a profit,” RPAC stated as a conclusion.

Also holding hearings on the MCC transition are the towns of Tofield and Viking and the villages of Holden and Ryley. All must be in agreement for the landfill’s incorporation to proceed.

2 - Beaver County Chronicle, June 24, 2020

Reeve motion regarding Carey Ridge subdivision road passes in split vote Patricia Harcourt Reeve Jim Kallal spoke up for residents of Carey Ridge upset over the condition of their subdivision road during the June 17 county council meeting.

Call had tried to move a motion June 3 to investigate the cost of rebuilding the subdivision road this year, but a tabling motion by Councillor Smook (Division 1) was successful which put the discussion off until administration provided an historical report that included costs.

The recommendation from administration June 17 was for council to simply accept the report given for information rather than proceeding with discussion to do something about the road.

The report by Dan Blackie explained: “It was a requirement of the original developer that the road be built and have an oiled surface once lots were 80 per cent developed.

The developer was required to pay the county $18,000 for future oiling of the road. “The subdivision was registered (created) in 2004 and it is our understanding that oil was applied by the county in the following few years (no exact year available). The oil was redone in 2011, according to our records, which was the second application, and at the county costs (not the developer).

Black continued: “The road has broken up and is generally a gravel surface with some remnant oil which suppresses some dust but is not a full oiled road surface.�

Cold mix and road oil were not recommended as the road base is unstable, but terracem and chip seal would cost $143,750 to apply to the entire road.

If the dust control policy applied, such as the case of Birch Grove Estates, Blackie said the cost to the landowners would be 50 per cent.

The subdivision lies within Reeve Jim Kallal’s Division 2, and he spoke in favour of the residents there. “Carey Ridge has fallen victim to

the democratic process of political decisions when a new council is elected,� he said. “Previous councils have dealt with the extreme fast growth in our west end, which has put very extreme and high conditions on a developer. One of those conditions was a surfaced road in Carey Ridge. “Carey Ridge is the one and only subdivision that has had that condition of a surfaced road (required by the county). The purchase price and the sale of a lot reflected the added expense and the market value assessment when it came to tax time,� he said. “It is my personal feelings that council and Beaver County are in total contradiction of the condition that they expected from a developer and now cannot maintain the requested surface road to that original standard.�

Referring to “the millionsâ€? collected in taxes for a half mile of road, Kallal added: “My point is we created the baby‌and now we cannot take care of it. There is just something wrong with this picture.â€?

Call said that, because this was his division, he proffered the motion that â€œâ€Śwe accept the report and that Carey Ridge be put in the 5-year road plan and that temporary dust control be applied until the road has a proper surface put back at least the minimum of its original surface that was ordered by this county when developed.â€?

However, the official motion that ended up being passed in a split decision was the following: “Moved

by Clr. Call that Carey Ridge be included in the 5-year road plan that includes oiling and that administration come back with a cost for a terracem surface.�

Voting in favour of the motion which passed were Reeve Kallal, Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec and Division 5 Councillor Dale Pederson.

Voting against the motion were Division 1 Councillor Kevin Smook and Division 4 Council Barry Bruce.

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Beaver County Chronicle, June 24, 2020 - 3

Flooding and drainage issues at county forefront Patricia Harcourt Beaver County administration brought forward a draft policy for enforcement of drainage complaints at the request of Councillor Dale Pederson, who is having issues with illegal drainage of water in Division 5.

But flooding issues in general are causing frustration as policies concerning water appear contradictory.

At the June 17 meeting, Peterson said he wanted to write Environment Minister Jason Nixon about the problem, requesting that the provincial Wetland Compensation Policy be waived to allow the county to do something about drainage and flooding concerns.

“We should be expressing the dissatisfaction of having to put up with this stuff,” he said, pointing out there are two provincial Acts that contradict each other.

Referring to Section 60 of the Municipal Government Act, Pederson says this section “says we control the water.”

The proposed county policy stated that if any infraction, defined as modification of a natural drainage, of a county bylaw or the Municipal Government Act (Section 60) is found, “the County will ask the landowner to correct the infraction and provide a remedy to the con-

cern, at the landowner’s own expense.”

The policy goes on to say, however, that the enforcement of an order issued by the county to resolve the matter, if the landowner does not do so voluntarily, would be done through the MGA and other provincial statutes. Plus any costs to remedy the problem would be what is laid out in provincial legislation.

Any drainage concern that falls under the jurisdiction of the Province of Alberta would be forwarded to the province for investigation along with any information collected by the county.

“I believe there is not enough communication between the county and the provincial government,” agreed Division 4 Councillor Barry Bruce. “We should meet with them far more frequently.”

The county should act “as a channel between residents and the government,” he said, and should be eager to talk to these officials “to explain just exactly what we are up against.”

“I agree wholeheartedly,” said Division 1 Councillor Kevin Smook, adding a “good discussion” was needed with the two local MLAs and MP representing the region.

Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) also supported the idea of having the provincial wetland

Road Bans

policy waived in favour of county action. It “gives us the ability to pump out” the two sloughs that are creating the pothole issues on the 492, he said.

“We can’t fix it because it’s never dry,” he said, noting that “one provincial Act says we control the water and the other Act says we can’t do anything.”

Hrabec said he wanted to ask the province to allow the county to supersede the regulations in an emergency.

Otherwise, it might take up to two years to get the permission to pump those sloughs out, he added.

“By then there’ll be no road to fix.”

Reeve Jim Kallal (Division 2) asked administration to draft a letter to the Environment Minister outlining the county’s need to act in an emergency situation without going through provincial regulations; pointing out the contradiction between the Acts in the provincial statutes regarding water control; and to make a request that the Wetland Compensation Policy be waived in an emergency.

“Section 60 is useless as it stands,” said Kallal.

“Mr. Nixon does listen and could do something about it,” said Pederson.

Hrabec agreed to share the letter with other municipalities that are also dealing with flooding problems.

Services

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

Real Estate

L /SEL BUYrma ti on i nfo dvi ce ! &a

780-983-3694 Office: 780-464-4100

Gerry Footz REALTOR

Website: www.gerryfootz.com

Public At Large Member The Tofield/Ryley/Beaver County West FCSS Advisory Board is currently looking to fill one (1) volunteer Public at Large (PAL) position to represent the Town of Tofield.

Interested parties must reside in the Town of Tofield.

If you require more information, please call 780-662-7066 or Submit a letter of intent to: Tracey Boast Radley, Director Tofield/Ryley/Beaver West FCSS P.O. Box 1058, 5407-50 Street.

Tofield, AB, T0B 4J0 E-Mail: tboastradley@tofieldalberta.ca

CRA Learning Series/Volunteer Income Tax Program CRA Learning Series and Volunteer Income Tax Program Tofield/Ryley Beaver County West (TRBW) FCSS has partnered with the CRA to have them facilitate a series of seven learning sessions about various credits and benefits that you may be entitled to when filing your tax return.

We have also asked them to include an overview of COVID related benefits to kick off the series. The sessions are available by webinar and teleconference to reduce barriers. Details are included on the attachment along with a requirement to register. Session links/teleconference lines will be released to registrants closer to the date of each session As you know, TRBW FCSS is registered with the Federal Government to run a year-round Community Volunteer Income Tax Program. We were able to maintain this program during COVID closures, but for individuals/families who may have held off filing returns - we can help. There are eligibility requirements as outlined in the attached link: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/ community-volunteer-income-tax-program/need-a-hand-complete-yourtax-return.html Register for one or all sessions by calling TRBW FCSS @ 780-662-7067.

4 - Beaver County Chronicle, June 24, 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.

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

2020 Construction Schedule

Bruce Construction Update

Schedule is subject to change depending on the weather. **ECD – Es mated Comple on Date TBD – To Be Determined

Beginning approximately June 22, 2020 (weather permitting) road construction will begin in Bruce on the following: • 1st ave between Queen and Main streets • Queen street between 1st and 2nd ave • 2nd ave between Hwy 857 and Main street

TASK RGE RD 182 TerraCem (from TWP RD 494 north to bridge 3 miles) Phase 1 (Cement) Phase 2 (1st li of chip seal) Phase 3 (2nd li of chip seal) Phase 4 (Final sweep of chips) BRUCE 1st ave between Queen and Main street - TerraCem Phase 1 (Cement) Phase 2 (1st li of chip seal) Phase 3 (2nd li of chip seal) Phase 4 (Final sweep of chips) BRUCE Queen street between 1st and 2nd ave - TerraCem Phase 1 (Cement) Phase 2 (1st li of chip seal) Phase 3 (2nd li of chip seal) Phase 4 (Final sweep of chips) BRUCE 2nd ave between HWY 857 and Main street - TerraCem Phase 1 (Cement) Phase 2 (1st li of chip seal) Phase 3 (2nd li of chip seal) Phase 4 (Final sweep of chips) RGE RD 145 between Hwy 14 and TWP RD 484 - TerraCem Phase 1 (Cement) Phase 2 (1st li of chip seal) Phase 3 (2nd li of chip seal) Phase 4 (Final sweep of chips) TWP RD 514 between RGE RD 193 – 195 - TerraCem Phase 1 (Cement) Phase 2 (1st li of chip seal) Phase 3 (2nd li of chip seal) Phase 4 (Final sweep of chips) Gravelock – (loca on TBD) Culvert Maintenance Road Oiling (loca on TBD) Patching Oil Roads Patching/Shoulder Pulls (loca on TBD) Backsloping- TBD Gravelling Dust Control - 1st Applica on Dust Control - 2nd Applica on

START DATE

PROJECTED END DATE

June 8

June 19

Phase 1 – In progress Phase 2 – Phase 3 – Phase 4 –

June 22

June 23

Phase 1 – Phase 2 – Phase 3 – Phase 4 –

June 24

June 25

Phase 1 – Phase 2 – Phase 3 – Phase 4 –

June 29

July 2

July 6

July 7

July 8

July 17

July 6 Apr 20 July 27 May 4 Sept 3 Oct 7 Feb 3 May 26 Aug 7

July 23 Nov 1 Aug 14 Oct 31 Oct 4 Nov 1 Sept 28 June 3 Aug 10

UPDATE – June 24

Phase 1 – Phase 2 – Phase 3 – Phase 4 –

Phase 1 – Phase 2 – Phase 3 – Phase 4 –

Phase 1 – Phase 2 – Phase 3 – Phase 4 – Ongoing Ongoing

Ongoing Complete

Range Road 182 Construction Update Over the next few weeks, Range Road 182 from Township Road 494 heading north approximately 3 miles to the bridge, will be upgraded from an oiled surface to an all-weather hard surfaced road. This involves stabilizing the road base with soil cement before applying two coats of “chip seal”. While this process is much different from the process to pave a road with asphalt, the end result will seem similar to residents and the travelling public resulting in a road that is not dusty when it is dry, nor muddy when it is wet.

During this time, the road may be closed to allow crews to work safely; however, access for local landowners will be maintained during construction.

We encourage patrons to Coal Creek Golf Course, Buzzard Gulch Campground and Black Nugget Lake Campground to take alternate routes. The detour route is Range Road 182 south from Highway 14 to Township Road 502, then east on Township Road 502 to Range Road 181, then south on Range Road 181 to Township Road 492.

There are potential hazards to the public and vehicles during the construction process. This can include heavy machinery, dust or mud, road material such as gravel, asphalt coatings and rock chips.

Thank-you for your patience and understanding during construction. If you have any questions, please call the Beaver County Service centre at 780-663-3730.

These roads will be upgraded from an oiled surfaces to an all-weather hard surfaced roads. This involves stabilizing the road base with soil cement before applying two coats of “chip seal”. While this process is much different from the process to pave a road with asphalt, the end result will seem similar to residents and the travelling public resulting in a road that is not dusty when it is dry, nor muddy when it is wet. During this time, the road may be closed to allow crews to work safely; however, access for locals will be maintained during construction however, they may experience delays. There are potential hazards to the public and vehicles during the construction process. This can include heavy machinery, dust or mud, road material such as gravel, asphalt coatings and rock chips.

In order to comply with social distancing recommendations and to ensure the safety of our contractors and crews, the cement trucks will begin arriving on site around 2am in order to finish their delivery before County crews arrive to continue work. Thank-you for your patience and understanding during construction. If you have any questions, please call the Beaver County Service centre at 780-663-3730.

Beaver County Notice Beaver County, under Section 311 of the Municipal Government Act, chapter M-26.1, and this publication, advise that the property assessment notices of the municipality have been sent. All assessed persons are deemed to have received their Combined Property Assessment and Tax Notice as a result of this publication.

As per chapter M-26.1, Section 336 of the Municipal Government Act, I do hereby certify that the Combined Property Assessment and Tax Notices for Beaver County were sent on June 11, 2020.

Robert Beck Chief Administrative Officer For taxpayers’ convenience, the County offers several options for payment including cash/cheque, on-line, Interac, and bank direct debit. *NEW IN 2020 – PAYSIMPLY* PaySimply is a secure, third-party Canadian payment provider that enables payment by credit card, e-transfer, PayPal, or at a Canada Post outlet!

NOTE: a convenience fee will be charged by the payment processing agency. Access PaySimply at paysrc.ca/beavercounty. Receipt will be e-mailed. Please allow 3 days for payment processing.

Attention Residents

ATTENTION RESIDENTS If your MAILING address has changed and you have not notified Beaver County, you may not receive your Tax Notice, however, you are still responsible for payment of your property taxes. It is your responsibility to advise Beaver County of your new mailing address. The County is NOT responsible for any returned tax notices due to incorrect postal addresses.

If you have not changed your mailing address with Beaver County already, please do so as soon as possible. You may send us your new mailing address via Canada Post addressed to Box 140, Ryley, Alberta, T0B 4A0.

Alternatively, you may complete an online form on the County’s website at www.beaver.ab.ca. Please note that Beaver County will not accept address changes over the phone.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020 - Page 9

Accessing information and government transparency Damien Kurek MP Battle River-Crowfoot

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Justin Trudeau and the Liberals have avoided accountability at all cost. My Conservative colleagues and I have demanded Parliament start up again, it is unfortunate however that over the course of the pandemic, left leaning political parties in Canada have mostly resisted these calls.

While Justin Trudeau carries on with his tightly choreographed press conferences outside of his cottage, I have been searching for answers for my constituents. I have heard from many of you regarding the poor rollout of the COVID-19 supports and concerning lack of accountability.

Further the Government has moved forward on policy initiatives, like their gun grab, without democratic scrutiny.

The antics of the Liberal Government prompted me to look for answers through other measures. This is why I started filing Access to Information Requests (ATIPS). ATIPS can help any member of the public access information from within a department that would otherwise be obscure or hard to find.

This is an important tool that allows Canadians to see what is happening within government departments and agencies. I have used this process to find out information about the Liberal agenda.

Recently, I attempted to file an ATIP on how the Liberals decided to

ban more than 1,500 types of firearms and to find out who was involved in the consultations. In yet another round of incompetence and with a complete lack of transparency, the ATIPS system is not working. Less than 5% of all federal departments are accepting ATIPS. This excludes, at the time of this column, the Department of Justice and the Department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness – two departments that have a lot to answer for with rural crime sweeping small towns and the undemocratic gun grab.

Shortly after I attempted to file these ATIPS, I had a chance to question Liberal MP and President of the Treasury Board JeanYves Duclos about the faulty ATIPS system. He stated that they are “essential” and are “absolutely key,” especially now with the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the Minister’s words are hollow when considering the utter lack of transparency that his government has displayed. Rather than taking responsibility for the problem, the Liberal Government simply gave another non-answer.

In the near future, I will begin to post the ATIPS that I have filed on social media to keep the good folks of my constituency informed and to let you know that I am working for you. Democracy cannot take a back seat because there is a pandemic.

Further, I will continue to use my role as a member of the Ethics Committee to demand accountability and

transparency.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has proven time and time again that he will not work for Canadians when it is not in his personal or political best interest.

The Official Opposition will continue stand up to the Liberal Government and their lack of transparency. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns about Access to Information Requests, please do not hesitate to contact my office.

My staff and I are here to help and will gladly do so.

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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/SUMMER

In Shop Service When You Buy At Ryalta Industries

60 inch Boulevard, 23 HP Kohler Boulevard 23 HPMowers • Joystick steering • Stand-up deck • Kohler engines • Twin Hydro-Gear ZT-2800 Drive • 7.5 MPH ground speed • 5 gallon fuel tank * Adjustable high back deluxe bucket seat • Hour meter

$5,995 $6,995 54” Deck.............

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60 inch $6,995 Commercial units also available XLT • Premium Zero-Turn Mower • 24 HP • Stand up deck • HD welded steel deck • Low centre of gravity • Joystick steering • Twin lever steering • Commercial Grade Forks • Castor wheels • Premium V-Twin Engines • Fully loaded, commercial quality

$7,995 R Ryalta Industries Ltd. Parts, Sales & Service

Bus: 780-663-3759

Res: 780-662-2384 Fax: 780-663-3799 ryalta@digitalweb.ca 5108 - 50th Street, Ryley, AB. T0B 4A0

Page 10 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020

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

Medium Ads - $80/month

Electrical

Automotive

Tofield Autobody *COLLISION REPAIR SPECIALISTS *WINDSHIELD REPAIRED & REPLACED

780-662-3432

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

Large Ads - $160/month

Insurance

• Farm • Residential • Commercial • 24 hour service

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

Health & Beauty Home Auto Life Investments Group Business Farm Travel

For your automotive, farm and industrial supplies

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

P RIMARY C ONNECTIONS M ASSAGE T HERAPY Registered Massage Therapy “Masseuse Caboose” 5024-53 Ave.

662-4498 Rhona Lawson R.M.T/M.T.A.A.

• AUTO • HOME • BUSINESS • FARM We find insurance that works for you. Call us for a free quote.

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

Heavy Duty Mechanic

662-2403

Heavy Duty Mechanic Services - Mobile & Shop -

Construction

780.662.4150 | 1.866.213.2037 Box 480, 5314 - 50th St. Tofield, AB BrokerLink.ca

Meat Packers

780-686-6344 Agriculture~Construction~Tractor/Trailer 5020 - 50 Ave., Tofield, AB

Insurance

HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

SLAUGHTER DAY IS EVERY WEDNESDAY

Phone 662-4842 for Appt

NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION ACREAGE ANDand TOWN DEVELOPMENT Acreage TownRESIDENTIAL Residential Development

Fresh Meat & Sausage Counter

David McQuaid

780-908-3327 westgencontr@gmail.com 780-662-4300 westgencontr@gmail.com LICENSED INSURED

GOLISH CONSTRUCTION LTD. CELL: 780-385-4179 JOHN GOLISH

• 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!

CALL THE TOFIELD MERCURY TO BOOK 780-662-4046

Commercial • Farm • Auto Home • Recreational• Hail • Tofield • Holden

Plumbing & Heating

780-662-0165 780-688-3865

INVEST IN YOUR BUSINESS. ADVERTISE IN

TOFIELD MERCURY!

THE

CALL THE TOFIELD MERCURY TO ADVERTISE!

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020 - Page 11

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

Medium Ads - $80/month

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

Large Ads - $160/month

Plumbing & Heating

Roofing

RED’S

John Daoust Shingle Co.

Mike Klassen - Owner/Operator

Box 576, Tofield

Call: 780-729-0260

P LUMBING & D RAIN C LEANING

•Boilers •New Homes • Renovations • Repairs •Distillers Ph: (780) 662-7237 Cell: (780) 238-7429 Garnet Malin - Tofield, AB

ES

EE S FR ATE TIM

Thermal Imaging

Cedar shingles & shakes, Asphalt, Repairs, Barns, Churches

John Daoust 662-4901 sales@gradientimaging.ca or www.gradientimaging.ca

B&M

PLUMBING AND HEATING INC Authorized Armstrong and Coleman dealer Authorized Trane dealer for all your for all your plumbing and heating needs. plumbing and heating needs.

CALL: 662-2454Service CALL: 662-2454

24 Hr. Emerg.

Real Estate

Septic Services Scott’s Septic Tank Pumping 780-298-5480

INSPECTION PRIOR

200’

REALTOR ®

Veterinary Clinic

20 YEARS SEPTIC SERVICES EXPERIENCE VISUAL

Kevin Smook

Things we do: NDVI & ADVI Imaging • Insurance Claim Photography • Crop Scouting • Thermal Imaging • Aerial Photography & Videography

&

AFTER CLEANING

HOSE TO STAY OFF YOUR GRASS

Scott 7 8 0 - 2 9 8 - 5 4 8 0

780-662-4623 Celebrating 20 years of serving our community! www.home-time.net

Place your Business Directory ad for 6 months and

CALL THE TOFIELD MERCURY TO ADVERTISE!

get 1 month FREE!

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

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

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Page 12 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Affordable Advertising with

The

THE LAMONT

CLASSIFIED AD RATES $10.75+gst 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 ___________________ AUTO SALE AUTO FOR FOR SALE 1993 Oldsmobile “98 Regency Elite Sedan” 3800 V6, LOADED. Only 57,000 Miles. $10, 500.00. 780-9989117.

LL24/27p ___________________ COMING EVENTS COMING EVENTS Viking Historical Meeting Friday, June 26 at 7 p.m. at Mike and Kyla Lawes’ farm.

Everyone Welcome!

27c Bruce Cemetery Day Monday, June 29 at 1 p.m.

Meeting to follow.

Everyone welcome!

Social Distancing Practices will be in Effect.

Viking Minor Hockey Annual General Meeting & Registration Wednesday, July 8 at 7p.m. in the Carena Lobby Fee increases, but receive $100 early registration discount on or before AGM night.

27/28p

___________________ SERVICES SERVICES

Mission to Many curb-side Bottle Drive - Wednesday June 24th and Thursday June 25th. Please drop bottles off at the trailer in GVLC parking lot any time before 8pm on June 25th. No door-todoor canvassing, pickup by pre-arrangement only. If you are unable to drop off your bottles please call or text Sandy at 780-336-1022 to arrange pickup. Drop off at 5327 56 Ave., Viking.

Machining, pins & bushing, keyways, welding aluminum, stainless steel, light sandblasting, sheet metal work, and small skidsteer jobs.

Phone 780-499-2017 or email: rj_lee@live.ca.

26/27c ___________________ FOR RENT FOR RENT Bruderheim 3 Bedroom Townhouse - available immediately. Rent $495, DD $495. Call Ron @ 780-4678305 LL27p Bruderheim 2 Bedroom Townhouse - available immediately. Rent $405, DD $405. Call Ron @ 780-4678305 LL27p ___________________ LAND RENT LAND FOR FOR RENT Pasture for rent. Call 780663-2468.

TM26/27p _______________________ LIVESTOCK LIVESTOCK Purebred yearling and 2 yr old Red & Black Angus bulls for sale.

Call 780-986-9088 27/29p __________________ 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 780-3843600. Serious inquiries only! tfnp

Handyman/Carpenter for hire. Over 25 years of experience. References available upon request. Call: 780-9199340.

TM22/30p 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

EADER

Serving

Classifieds ___________________ COMING EVENTS COMING EVENTS

L

__________________ SERVICES SERVICES

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 or 780-3851251.

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.

Lamont

county

3 papers for the price of 1! __________________ SERVICES SERVICES 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 TMtfn

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Hans On Massage Therapy in Viking is now open again.

Please call 780-336-2548 for your appointment.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020 - Page 13

Remember When

A SIGN OF THE TIMES: Eva Loranger of Knothole Wood Crafts, puts the finishing touches on Tofield’s entrance sign. This image appeared in The Tofield Mercury dated June 30, 1992. Photo by Terri Kemball.

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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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Page 14 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020 IEF BR TING S I L

AUCTIONS TIMED

UNRESERVED

ONLINE

O N LY

BIDDING IS NOW OPEN & STARTS CLOSING SAT., JULY 4TH - 10:00 A.M. FOR CHES & SHIRLEY FLASHA BOYLE, AB PH: 780-689-2349

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Kindergarten students given a drive-by graduation

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TIMED & LIVE ONLINE AUCTION - WED., SEPT. 9TH LARGE COLLECTOR TRACTOR AUCTION - SOUTH EDMONTON

UNRESERVED

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Moush John Tofield Mercury

It’s been a different way of learning for all students since March this year, but as the academic year ended last week for the Kindergarten students of CW Sears, it was bittersweet as they said goodbye to their teachers from their vehicles, accepting the graduation certificate.

One of the Kindergarten teachers, Charlene Nickel said that despite the challenges, students were able to grasp concepts for the

Kindergarten teacher Charlene Nickel presents graduation certificate to Steve Rice during the Thursday drive-by at CW Sears School. MOUSH JOHN PHOTO

most part. A Google Classroom was set up for all students and activities were posted online daily.

“Just like we would if

EMAIL

we were in school, we did a variety of things to keep learning: I made YouTube videos teaching the students new Continued on Page 16

THANK YOU!

Beaver District 4H clubs would like to take the time to thank our buyers for the 2019/2020 4H year. This year presented a new challenge for us with the restrictions in place due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. We deeply appreciate the support of community individuals and businesses that stepped forward to purchase our 4H steers through private treaty. The response was phenomenal and somewhat overwhelming! We are also grateful to those individuals, community groups and businesses that provided donations, grants and sponsorships throughout the year. Members of the Holden, Viking and Tofield 4H Clubs wish to extend their most heartfelt “Thank You” and hope to see you at our Beaver District Show and Sale in 2021!

2020 Beaver District Buyers Holden D2 Electric, Troy Giebelhaus, Doug & Lisa Wakaruk, Norm & Nancy Dietterle, Clay Cartier, John & Arlene Sokoluk, Lutz Land and Cattle, JCR Farms, Matt & Monique Boscovich, Ryan & Jacquie Brugleman, Crop Management Network (Holden), Fred & Carolyn Kiist, Amanuel Webeshet & Pam Kiist, Glen & Pat Rabby, Mike & Bernice Komarnisky, 7Z Farms Inc, Ed Wrzesien, Sherise & Gerry Golka.

Viking Wanda Law, Loren & Wendy Chomik, Hank & Vicki Field, Trevor & Ashley Campbell, Black Dog Outfitters, Will Roeleveld, Pam Dancek, Reid and Britni Labreche, Greg and Linda Potvin, Leif and Paula Erickson, David, Chelsea and Chandra Sarafinchan, Kittle Seed Farm, Ritchie Agencies, Richard and Cindy Lefsrud, Lefsrud Seed and Processors Ltd., Loves Meats Vegreville, Gordon and Maarit Otto, Ryan Storbakken, Candice Harris, Rick Pipella, Candice Boger, Ana Bernadeto, Robyn O'Niel, Lorne Haugen, Ron Atzinger.

Tofield M7M Thermal Barriers, Dave Sears, Mark & Nova Fritz, Bob & Maryann Nolan, JSL Innovations, Ben & Allora Hulley, Dave & Loriann Christopher, Shawna & Neil Ellis, Rob Harper, Allen Colp, Amanda & Morgan Christopher, Marty & Bill Saunderson, Tom & Anita Bell, Gary & Betty Lazar, Dan DeDois, Randy Crocker, Symen & Hennie Bosma.

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR LEADERS, PARENTS AND OTHER VOLUNTEERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF 4-H THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020 - Page 15

– ON THE PRAIRIES –

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Council Corner Town of Tofield peace officers enforcing property maintenance, working with owners Friends, over the past number of months we have discussed the many issues that we have faced collectively with COVID 19.

These issues have created concerns with financial hardship, mental and physical well being, but have also created issues in service and business disruption.

Our Municipal Operations have been consistent throughout, and service has not wavered.

Unfortunately, the contracted Peace Officer services were suspended for a period of time, only recently has service to the community begun again.

Because of this suspension in service due to COVID, notices for property clean ups, grass and weed notices and general complaints were not able to be given the attention that was often required.

With the reinstatement of

service, many property owners have been provided with a Notice to Maintain Letter, which provides property owners with a time frame of 10 days in which to comply with the maintenance noted on the official letters.

If compliance is not adhered to within this time frame of 10 days, a Notice of Entry is issued.

If compliance is not done within this time frame, a contractor will be sent onto the property to perform the work, at the property owner’s expense.

Administration has received feedback that theses time frames are too lengthy and should be acted upon sooner. These sentiments may be shared, however,

the Municipality is required to act in accordance to legal statute, as well as the dictated measures from the Municipal Government Act. Of note: Tofield has the shortest amount of time to have the measures performed from what is a legally permissible standpoint.

For review, please see Bylaw 1308, Community Standards Bylaw, located on the Town of Tofields website www.tofieldalberta.ca Now, with all of the aforementioned, the Town and the Contracted Peace Officer are always quite open and willing to work with property owners to find remedy to situations. Often there

Honour the past...

Build the Future

are circumstances that have been outside of the property owner’s control such as illness or death of a loved one to name just a few.

Once again, the Town through our Peace Officer are open to working towards reasonable resolve, often outside of the time frames provided. It is important that each of us work towards the betterment of our community, this includes property aesthetics and the many important measures and lessons we have been provided with the presence of COVID 19.

Respectfully submitted, Mayor and Council Town of Tofield

Page 16 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Kindergarten Continued from Page 14 concepts, we were engaged in hands on activities (for example, making patterns with toys, writing sight words outside with sidewalk chalk), we watched online videos of alphabet songs that were familiar to the students from when they were in school, there were links to websites for listening/reading stories, and we had a Google Meet once a week so we had the opportunity to connect with our class ‘face-to-face,’” Nickel explained.

One of the biggest challenges, she faced was with technology.

“With young children in Kindergarten, parents would have to help them with their online learning.

If parents were working, participating in school this way was really challenging for them.,” she said. “Some students embraced this new way of doing school and some felt a lot of anxiety. It was hard for them to see their teachers and classmates on a screen rather than in person.”

Nickel added that once everybody inclduing herself were more comfortable with the technology, things went well.

“As I would do if we were in school, I had to post a variety of activities so that the students would find it fun and interesting,” Nickel said.

“They did really well with it! It was fun seeing pictures of the students with their work or videos of them completing a learning task. We had access to

an online book website and my two classes read over 900 books during our time at home! That was very exciting!”

Nickel expressed her gratitude to the parents and said, how thankful she was for all their hard work during this time.

“I appreciated their efforts so much. We couldn’t have done school this way without them.”

With the academic year starting up in September, it’s still unsure the format that school boards would be undertaking.

“Students going in to higher grades have experienced online learning so they are familiar with the process; the challenge will be with new students coming in to Kindergarten who may have experienced school, but certainly not online learning.”

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$539,900 260, 52343 Rge Rd 211 • Lakefront property at Antler Lake • 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms • Oversized double attached garage

ABOVE: CW Sears Principal Emily Coykendall (right) poses with Kindergarten staff Charlene Nickel (centre) and EA Christy Swedberg.

BELOW: Charlene Nickel presents Nora Webb with her certificate and goody bag during the Kindergarten drive-by.

M O U S H J O H N PHOTOS

Dr Marc Kallal & Dr Tiffany Lim EYECARE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TREATMENT OF RED EYES AND EYE INFECTIONS COVERED BY AB HEALTH DIRECT BILLING OF MOST INSURANCES LARGE SELECTION OF GLASSES INCLUDING PRESCRIPTION SAFETY & SUNGLASSES

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BOOK DIRECTLY ONLINE @ TOFIELDEYECARE.COM AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY CALL DR KALLAL @ 587-991-8957