Proud to be an Independent CANADIAN Publication
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Your Independent Local Newspaper Established in 1918 VOLUME 103: ISSUE 05
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020
TOFIELD COMMUNITY MARKET IS BACK.
www.tofieldmerc.com
TOFIELD FLYS PINK CANCELLED DUE TO COVID-19.
SEE PAGE 2
SEE PAGE 5
Tofield detachment gets new commander Sgt. Lee Knelsen MOUSH JOHN Editor Sgt. Lee Knelsen was appointed as the new Detachment Commander of the Tofield RCMP Detachment effective Tuesday, Sept. 8. Arriving from the Lloydminster RCMP Detachment, Knelsen said he was happy to assume duties in this capacity, because it would give him a chance to work in a position of rural policing. “This is where I could bring the experience I have gained from many other unique and specialized sections of policing from detachments in “F” Division (Saskatchewan) and “K” Division (Alberta),” Knelsen explained. “I bring a strong background and experience in in General Duty policing, General Investigations Section (plain clothes) policing in Financial Crime, Serious Persons Crime, Property
What’s Inside Driving complaints keep Tofield RCMP busy PAGE 4
Loose Ends: Killer cats PAGE 5
Editorial: The Trudeau chaos continues unabated PAGE 6 LEFT: Sgt. Lee Knelsen, left, being congratulated by Chief Superintendent Wendell Reimer, District Commander for Eastern Alberta District, on his appointment as the new Detachment Commander of the Tofield RCMP Detachment. SUBMITTED PHOTO RIGHT: Knelsen with MLA Jackie Lovely at one of his very first public events in Tofield, a presentation held at the Town of Tofield office for the World Suicide Prevention Day on Wednesday, Sept. 9. MOUSH JOHN PHOTO Crime and Prolific Offender/Habitual Offender Management.” Knelsen has served over 12 years with the RCMP across various detachments in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan/Alberta and Red Deer. As a farm kid, born and raised in a small town in Hodgeville, Saskatchewan,
• REAL ESTATE • HELP WANTED • GARAGE SALE • ANNOUNCEMENTS • UPCOMING EVENTS • AUCTIONS
just 30 minutes outside of Swift Current, Knelsen is familiar with rural crimes. “I know the pressures and challenges that the rural setting and environment creates and felt the stressors personally and on my family firsthand that victims of crime deal with when police were miles away,” he added. “I
am excited to take up this position at the Tofield Detachment where I can ensure continued delivery of a proactive policing approach, and promote inclusiveness of the community members and partners, located in both the urban and rural Beaver County. “I also look forward to
working with the mayors and council members of Tofield, Ryley, and Holden, on our current and future policing strategies and response, and ensure that we are meeting the needs and expectations of the many communities that the Tofield detachment serves.
Holden 4-H Beef Club participates in highway cleanup PAGE 11
What’s On Farmer’s Market PAGE 5
BOOK THIS FRONT PAGE SPACE FOR ONLY $250 TO GET NOTICED! CALL 780-662-4046!
Page 12 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, September 23, 2020
Obituary
Get the local community news at your doorstep! Subscribe to us today. Call 780-662-4046
KEITH RAY
Obituary
WILLIAM YARMOVICH Feb. 20, 1930 – Sept. 20, 2020 William Yarmovich, a long time resident of Ryley, AB was born on February 20, 1930 at Hafford, Sask.; he passed away peacefully at the Tofield Hospital on September 20, 2020 at the age of 90 years. A private service will take
place on a later date. Cremation has taken place and inurnment will take place at the Ryley Cemetery on a later date. Weber Funeral Home 780-662-3959 www.weberfuneralhome.ca
Keith Ray of Tofield passed away on September 13, 2020 at the age of 56 years. He is survived
by his partner Lisa; sons Steven, Adrian, Jorden and Kailin; daughter Kayla (Aaron); grandchildren Ethan and Ivedell; brothers Kevin (Barbara), Kelly and Dean; sisters Leanne (Klayton) and Marie (Sam); mother Lois and Liz Bell. Keith was pre-
deceased by his father Harold. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the S t o l l e r y Children's Hospital. Weber Funeral Home 780-662-3959 www.weberfuneralhome.ca
Tofield and Area Church Directory Tofield Alliance Bardo Lutheran Church Sunday Worship @ 10:30 am Church Pastor - Calvin Andringa
Sunday Worship - 10:00 am • Sunday School • Life Groups • Youth Group • Music & Worship • Senior Activities 780-662-2762 • 5907 - 49 Street
All are welcome! Worship services can also be accessed online @
Salem Mennonite Church 49232 Rge Rd 184 Tofield, AB
Pastor Mark Loewen 780-662-2365
www.bardolutheranchurch.weebly.com Sunday service in-person and drive-in
Pastor Kevin Langager 780-662-3411
at 10:00 am. Also available online at: www.salemmennonite.ca
Holden United Church Tofield Community Church ALL SAINTS UKRAINIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH Tofield United Church Pastor Ken Stumph
Due to COVID-19 in-person worship services have been suspended. Online services will take place and can be listened to on the phone. For login info please call: 780-662-3471 or email: beaverpastoralcharge@gmail.com
Rev. Adam Hall
780-662-3166 Sunday Worship @ 10:30 am Service available online @ www.tofieldchurch.com You can attend live services with COVID-19 social distancing guidelines in effect.
5402-53 St. Camrose, AB
Parish Priest Father Slawomir Lomaszkiewics
780-632-2078 SERVICES RESUME ON SUNDAY, SEPT. 20 @ 4:00 PM Please wear a mask and follow all health & safety protocols.
FALL
SECTION
2020
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THE LAMONT
EADER
Serving
(780) 385-6693
(780) 336-3422
(780) 662-4046
ads@thecommunitypress.com
ads@weeklyreview.ca
adsmercury@gmail.com
Lamont
county
(780) 895-2780
lmtleader@gmail.com
Page 2 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
Grain Growers of Canada releases ‘Speech from the Combine’ Leslie Cholowsky The Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) represents more than 65,000 farmers through 15 national, regional, and provincial grower groups. The group acts as an advocate for farmers to the federal government, and this weekend issued their version of a throne speech with a Speech from the Combine from the group’s Chairperson, Jeff Nielson. He recorded a seven-minute video from his combine while farming his land near Olds. GGC Executive Director says the video asks for government support for the country’s grain industry as a way to drive Canada’s post-pandemic recovery. Nielson says the combine speech outlines six priorities that GGC feels require the federal gov-
ernments immediate attention. These are: providing effective business risk management programs, supporting science and innovation in agriculture; supporting crop health; helping to improve trade access; providing carbon tax exemptions; and improvements to cellular and internet services in rural areas. “At GGC we have long been advocating for these changes directly to the federal government, but now they are more important than ever,” Neilson says. “As Canada begins its economic recovery period, the agriculture sector faces its own challenges including the need for regulatory modernization, market access issues and a lack of reliable business risk management programs.” He adds, “Through our Speech from the Combine, we have provided the government with clear
Killam Agriplex 780-385-3080
town.killam.ab.ca
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and specific directives for what needs to be done. “As the government develops a plan for economic recovery we wanted to ensure that Canada’s agriculture sector is central to that plan, so we can all work together for everyone’s benefit.”
SPEECH FROM THE COMBINE A message from the Grain Growers of Canada
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2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 3
Farm Credit Canada review suggests modest increase in farmland values Average farmland values in Canada are once again showing modest increases for the first half of 2020, although the full impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has yet to be weighed, according to a review by Farm Credit Canada. The national average for farmland values increased an average of 3.7 per cent for the first half this year. This increase is in line with mid-year results over the past five years, which showed single-digit increases for the full year. “Given the global economic situation during the first half of 2020, Canada’s farmland market is showing remarkable resilience in the face of adversity and uncertain times,” said J.P. Gervais, FCC’s chief agricultural economist. “Changes to production and marketing plans induced by the pandemic have had a definite influence on profitability, yet the demand for farmland remained robust.” FCC’s review showed lower 12-month increases in average farmland values for most provinces over the last 12 months compared to last year’s average, with the exception being in Alberta (8.5 per cent compared to 3.3 per cent) and Saskatchewan (7.9 per cent compared to 6.2 per cent). In general, the pace of farmland value increases over the past six months was slightly higher in western provinces and slightly lower in central and eastern parts of the country, with the exception being New Brunswick. Average farmland values have increased every year since 1993; however, increases were more pronounced from 2011 to 2015 in
many different regions. In 2015, the average increase was 10 per cent, and since that year, Canada has seen more moderate single-digit increases in average farmland values. Low interest rates, the limited supply of farmland in the market and confidence among producers in the farmland market appear to be the main drivers behind the 2020 mid-year increase. “Despite supply chain disruptions that have impacted some sectors, such as red meat, the pandemic has so far not significantly affected the agriculture land market,” Gervais said. “In fact, the grain, oilseed, and pulse sectors have performed well in the first half of 2020, supporting the slightly higher rate of increase in western Canada.” Crop receipts (excluding cannabis) for the first six months of 2020 are 1.6 per cent higher than for the same period last year. Gervais recommends farm operators should continue to exercise caution, especially in regions where the growth rate of farmland values significantly exceeded that of farm income in recent years. He also recommends operators maintain a risk management plan to protect their business from unpredictable circumstances. By sharing agriculture economic knowledge and forecasts, FCC provides solid insights and expertise to help those in the business of agriculture achieve their goals. For more information and insights, visit the FCC Ag Economics blog post at fcc.ca/AgEconomics. FCC is Canada’s leading agriculture and food lender. For more information, visit fcc.ca.
Fall Has Awesome Corkcicle products!
ONLINE TIMED FALL CONSIGNMENT AUCTION BIDDING STARTS OCTOBER 12TH AND BIDDING ENDS OCTOBER 17TH Visit our website to register for our online timed auction WWW.LINDSTRANDAUCTIONS.COM Accepting delivery of consignments from Saturday October 3rd to Saturday October 10th. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Public Viewing from Monday October 12th to Saturday October 17th 9:00 am to 5:00 pm at our yard 2 MILES NORTH OF CAMROSE ON HIGHWAY 833. (47321 Sec, Hwy 833) Covid -19 Regulations will be in effect.
We conduct Alberta’s Largest 1-day Farm Machinery Consignment Auction 4 times a year. Selling farm equipment, cars & trucks, lawn and garden, recreation vehicles and shop equipment. Whether you have 1 piece or a complete line of machinery, we have the facility & the experience to bring you top dollar for your equipment. For full listings and pictures visit our website at: www.lindstrandauctions.com Terms & Conditions: E-Transfer, Wire Transfer,Cash, Debit, Visa, Master Cards (3% service charge) Company Cheques with Major I.D. G.S.T. Will Apply on Some Items. All Accounts Must Be Paid in Full before Removal. Online Bidding Fees 4% Up to A Maximum of $800 Per Item
CONSIGN NOW!!
AT LINDSTRAND AUCTIONS SALE SITE, 2 MILES NORTH OF CAMROSE ON HIGHWAY 833. (47321 Sec, Hwy 833)
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Make the trip to Killam to shop at our awesome store! Biggest drug store in East Central Alberta!
Page 4 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
Harvesting
The Town of Tofield 5407 - 50 Street Tofield, AB
780-662-3269
The Town of Tofield wishes our local Farmers a Bountiful Harvest!
780-663-3583 Thank you to the farmers for all they contribute! We hope they have a bountiful harvest!
780-662-0307 It’s harvest time across the province, and seen here is a common sight right now on farms. Please be patient if you see tractors or large farm equipment on the road.
#101, 5116 46 Ave. Parkstone Plaza, Tofield
RYALTA INDUSTRIES LTD. 5105 - 50 St. Ryley
780-663-3759
Residential New Home Construction
Working together with the local farmers to help bring in the harvest.
Phone: 780-990-4658 Email: westgencontr@gmail.com WE WISH THE FARMERS THE BEST IN THEIR UPCOMING HARVEST!
All the best in the fall of 2020! THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATRONAGE
David & Lesley McQuaid
Wishing the farmers a successful harvest!
2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 5
Canada Ag Minister holds round table discussion with female agricultural entrepreneurs COVID-19 has magnified systemic issues and longstanding inequalities, and the Government of Canada is working hard to provide equal opportunities for all Canadians. On Friday, Sept. 18, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, held a virtual roundtable discussion with women entrepreneurs from across Canada's agricultural food chain, focussing on the opportunities and challenges that exist for them in the agriculture and agri-food sector. During the roundtable, Minister Bibeau announced that Farm Credit Canada's Women Entrepreneur Program has already helped 1,391 women with loans under this program, totalling more than $994.5 million. This is already nearly double the $500-million amount initially announced in March of 2019 for this three-year program, demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit of hundreds of women in Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector. This program is part of the federal Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, a $5billion investment. "Women play a vital role in growing the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector. “Over the past several decades, the proportion of female farm operators has continued to increase. “While this progress is positive, women remain underrepresented in the sector and continue to face significant barriers. “That is why the Government is taking steps to promote and empower women entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector through various initiatives, and through conversations like those held during today's roundtable to better understand and help
address the obstacles they face,” said Bibeau. In agriculture, there are over 75,000 female farm operators, representing some 28.7 per cent of all farm operators in Canada – a number which continues to modestly increase. The Women Entrepreneurship Program is expected to increase this proportion. During the roundtable, Minister Bibeau, in her capacity as the first-ever female Minister of Agriculture and AgriFood, highlighted her personal commitment towards greater inclusion
of women in the agriculture and agri-food sector. She stressed the need to overcome barriers to equality that research shows include: work-life balance, skills training, networking and mentorship, access to information management, and financial barriers. “I am confident that together we can build on the progress made and strengthen and diversify our entire agricultural sector,” says Bibeau. The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion
and International Trade, says, “This program is a perfect example of the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy in action. “Our Government will continue to help womenowned businesses grow and succeed in every sector of Canada's economy, and agriculture is no exception. We encourage See WOMEN Fall 14
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a better opportunity awaits Discover a better place to grow your career: a place that’s caring, engaging and rewarding. We’re proud of our diverse culture of trust and respect. It’s a culture guided by solid leadership and collaboration from every member of our organization. The Co-operators, a leading Canadian-owned insurance and financial services company, is looking for a qualified:
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All the best of luck and weather to our local farmers for this years harvest!
ANTONIUK REAL ESTATE 780-764-4007 5004 50 Street, Mundare, AB.
To our
Local Farmers
We wish you all the best for harvest!
FILL A $20 BAG SALE! 780-895-2800 5118 50 Av, Lamont, AB
Sept 28, Sept 30 & Oct 2
Lamont: NW-32-55-19-W4 1980 BiLevel 1388 sq.ft., 3 miles North of Lamont, 130 quality acres balance pasture & yard.................$725,000 Mundare: RR 172 South of Hwy 16, 8.3 acres, 988 sq.ft. 1972 bungalow 3 bedrooms up, 1 down.......$290,000 Bruderheim: 160 Acres 130 cult,# 1 & 2 soil 1978 1200 sq.ft Bi-Level, 2 garages, barn in the Heartland ........................................$725,000 Chipman: 8.28 acres, 1,500 sq. ft. home, large newer garage, 2 barns, nicely treed, full kitchen in basement .......................$319,000 ....SOLD Chipman: 75 Acres of pasture w/ buffalo fence & dug out...$149,000 Chipman: 160 acres, SW of Village garage, home/out buildings ........................$389,000 ... SOLD Chipman: 1.5 storey, 4 bedroom brick house, rent effective Dec 1 of $800/ month good rental return ......................................... $69,900 Hilliard: 315 acres, well fenced,
pasture, dugout .............. $570,000 Lamont: North 80 Acres, #2 Soil, in hay.................................. $230,000 Mundare: North 80 acres, #2 soil, 55 open, 25 bush............ $195,000 Mundare: 160 acres, fenced lots of bush, 1,500 sq. ft. 4 bedroom modular, a second 4 bedroom, 2 storey home, 30’x50’ quonset/barn double car garage,16’x38’ shed....... $599,000 Myrnam: 3/4 sect. land, 1,990 sq. ft. home, lots of out buildings .................................... $1,500,000 Smoky Lake: 154 acres,1,272 sq. ft. home, dbl garage............$450,000 St. Michael: small acreage, older home, garage... $59,000 ..... SOLD St. Michael: 5 acres nicely treed, power on road .................. $50,000 Tofield: 80 acres, #2 soil 60 open 20 nicely treed......................$299,000 Mundare: 3.0 acres, 1989 mobile, garage................$59,000... SOLD
WE NEED Listings! Acreages with home!
ANTONIUK REAL ESTATE 5% & 3% Commissions! Ray Cossey 780-916-9025
Allen Antoniuk 780-363-2147
Page 6 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 PATRICIA HARCOURT PHOTOS
Hurry! Deadline to order for Thanksgiving is Oct. 1
Viking Meats (1994) Ltd. • Groceries • Fresh Produce • Viking Weiners • • Dairy • Meat Counter • Custom Sausages •
**Limited quantities of smoked Hams and Turkeys! Come in and get all your Thanksgiving Trimmings here! Harvest combining is in full swing, as seen from this producer south of Viking.
Open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
780-336-3193 Did you miss out on the Fall Section? Have no fear. Get in on our 4 paper deal any time. Email your local paper today!
Thank You to our Loyal Customers!
Did you know?
From Stefan Cloutier, Manager, and the Staff Don’t go from this boat to the one below, talk to your broker today!
Great Northern Grain Killam, Alberta
780-385-3622
During the During he h home ome heating season, if you are away from your home for extended periods of time, you may need someone to check your home regularly to keep some insurance coverages in force.
er k o r aps B e nc e no g a r su e ar u are n I r ther yo u o e l y i l re e! Cal ke su ge wh hom a ra rom e m v o t n co ay f i S. James Agencies Killam 780-385-3654 aw Sedgewick Land & Insurance 780-384-3639 Battle River Agencies Hardisty 780-888-3999
2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 7
Avoiding harvest-related fatigue
Moush John
Tofield Mercury
With harvest in full swing, farmers need to be aware of the risks associated with worker fatigue. “Too many farmers push themselves, especially during the really busy times,” said Kenda Lubeck, farm safety awareness coordinator for Alberta Agricultureand Forestry. “Too often, it’s a case of ‘I’m going to finish that field tonight
no matter what.’ Health and safety is a worker’s most valuable asset – nothing should come before.” Many times fatigue creeps up on a person and this makes it difficult to recognize. In addition to feeling sleepy and tired, some common symptoms of fatigue include: • headaches, dizziness and blurry vision; • slow reflexes and reactions, poor concentra-
tion; • feeling irritable, moody and short tempered; and • aching, weak muscles. “We often see safety as being all about equipment and guards,” she added, “but the most important safety tool a person can have is their attitude and subsequent decisions. That could mean taking a 20-minute snooze when you are exhausted, or having an-
other person lined up to spell you off.” She offered the following suggestions that farmers can do to ward off fatigue: • Get adequate sleep. This means parking your worries at the bedroom door and regularly getting a good night’s rest. • Eat nourishing food to keep your mind and body sharp. • Stay hydrated with plenty of water. • Incorporate some
healthy activity in your day’s work. Many times fall work equals long hours operating the same equipment. If you find yourself in the cab of a tractor for hours on end, be sure to stop periodically and go for a walk to stretch out your muscles. • Plan for physical and mental demands. This may mean adding workers to your team to alleviate the demands of harvest work, keeping a
promise to yourself that you will take a well-deserved break after a set amount of time, and not making critical decisions while you are weary. “Although the human factor is a significant cause of farm-related hazards, your safety is about the choices you make,” she stated. “It just takes a moment to make a decision that could literally be the difference between life and death.”
COVID-19 will have long-lasting implications for agri-food sector Moush John Tofield Mercury
Directly or indirectly, COVID-19 is driving change in consumer behaviour, according to a report by Alberta Agriculture and Forestry. These changes are in-
fluencing consumers’ food buying patterns. “COVID-19 is driving change in consumer behaviour,” explained Jeewani Fernando, provincial consumer market analyst with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry. “There are rea-
sons to believe that certain fundamental shifts in consumer behaviour will have long lasting effects and may have implications for the agri-food sector.” She said that although the impact of the pandemic varies across re-
gions and countries, emerging behaviours are clearly visible. Those include: • shifting to valuebased products and essentials; • shopping online and using omnichannels - creating a single customer
Country Bottle Depot Thank you to the farmers for all their hard work and late nights to put food on our table!
We wish the farmers all the best during their harvest!
5023 52 Ave., Tofield 780-662-3988
Good luck to the farmers during their harvest!
John Daoust Shingle Co. 780-662-4901
780-688-3378 780-632-9313 Wishing our farming community a safe and productive harvest season!
Tofield Autobody “Collision Repair Specialists”
780-662-3432 Hoping the weather holds for the farmers this harvest season!
• Tofield 780-662-0165 • Mundare 780-764-2238
Wishing the farmers the best during their harvest!
experience across the brand; • focusing more on health, quality, safety and the ‘caring’ economy; • decreasing brand loyalty; and • homebody economy. “Understanding these emerging behaviours may help the agri-food industry solve issues it’s facing today, assist with planning for tomorrow and preparing for the future,” she noted. “Streamlining product portfolios, realigning base prices, and promotion may be necessary to stay competitive. Since consumers’ shopping frequency has declined, offering larger package sizes for lower prices would be one strategy.” With the dramatic rise in e-commerce, she said that small businesses will need to increasingly turn to e-commerce platforms, while efficiently running their brick and mortar stores and using omnichannel platforms in innovative ways. According to Statistics Canada, retail e-commerce sales reached a record $3.9 billion in May, a 2.3 per cent increase over April and a 99.3 per cent increase over February ($2billion). Year over year, ecommerce sales have
more than doubled – with a 110.8 per cent increase compared with May 2019. Among retail subsectors, from February to April, only the food and beverage subsector recorded an increase in in-store sales. Food and beverage instore sales increased by 3.3 per cent while ecommerce sales surged 107 per cent. In addition to e-commerce, other digital and contactless services – including curbside pickup, delivery, and drivethrough service – are also seeing much higher adoption rates. “During the pandemic, many consumers have been forced to look outside their preferred brands based on what is available at the grocery store or due to price concerns,” Fernando said. “Focusing on how to foster a brand community digitally will be crucial and having a loyal online community will be a key ingredient to fuel continued brand success.” She added that with cooking and meal planning fatigue felt by some consumers, there is also an opportunity to provide quick and convenient meal solutions and recipes.
Page 8 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
Moush John Tofield Mercury
Storing grain in the province
It’s harvest time right now, and some farmers
might be thinking of storing grain and getting a
Nonnie’s Grill & Artisan Shop
DINE IN or TAKE OUT Call (780) 297-8856 22106 South Cooking Lake Rd Unit 2, Sherwood Park, AB
Tuesday to Saturday - 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Closed Sundays & Mondays 95% of everything at Nonnie’s is homemade and prepared on site.
We wish all a bountiful harvest!
high price for it. But, this is not the case always. “Having storage capacity can be a marketing advantage, but capturing a higher price by storing grain is not a guarantee, even though farmers in Alberta along with growers in other prairie provinces have more grain storage than most of their worldwide competitors,” said Ryan Furtas, market analyst with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry. “Customers who utilize grain, oilseed, and pulse crops tend to
require a consistent supply over the entire year. Storing grain shortterm – three to four months – or longer term – 10 to 11 months – following harvest can improve producer returns and allow farmers to provide product at times when deliveries are otherwise slow.” According to him, generally in years with normal production, prices are seasonally lowest at harvest time due to a large influx of supply from newly harvested
crop that puts pressure on the grain handling system. Canola and wheat are two Alberta crops that comprise the majority of acreage, and both commodities have future markets for price discovery. Some smaller, yet economically important crops that have no future markets include durum, barley, flax, and field peas. These secondary crops can be subject to more extreme price swings and can someSee GRAIN Continued onFall Page175
From the NAPA AUTO PARTS STAFF... Wishing our 5315 50th St. Tofield, AB • 780-662-3212 Local Farmers A Bountiful & Abundant Harvest! NAPA, working hand in hand with the local farmers!
5020 - 50 Ave. Tofield
(780) 662-4842 Best wishes to the farmers during their harvest! From Trevor & Staff at Tofield, Camrose, & Wetaskiwin SHAREK ENTERPISES
Bringing Freshness, Quality and Grade A Service to Your Dinner Table. Thank You Local Farmers for Your Patronage!
#1 20332 Township Road 512 - Sherwood Park, Alberta T8G 1E8
780-662-2227
www.hastingslakevet.com
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8:30 am – 5:30 pm; Sat. 8:30 am – 1:30 pm.
It is a pleasure to serve our farming families by taking care of your farm pets. Thank you so much for your support and referrals, we greatly appreciate it! We take great pride in ensuring veterinary visits for our patients, even those that rarely leave the farm, are as stress free as possible. Many of our staff are Fear Free certified practitioners and we can help you make that trip to the vet clinic much easier! Some of our community events to look forward to in 2020: • Farm Cat Spay/Neuter Clinic is running throughout the month of October. Call the clinic to book! 780-662-2237
We care for cats, dogs, caged pets and farm pets including poultry, goats, sheep, pot bellied pigs and alpacas.
2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 9
New smartphone app designed to help in the fight against rural crime Leslie Cholowsky “There’s got to be a better way....” It’s not only a general statement regarding the fight against rural property crime, it was the driving principle behind the development of a new app in Alberta to provide citizens with a better way to share information with neighbours and police when crimes or suspicious activity occur. The team behind this new app, called “Crowd Security,” consists of Blake Moser, President of the East 13 Rural Crime Watch, from the Hardisty area; Trent Kenyon, a Beaver County community Peace Officer and former 15-year RCMP member; and Geographical Information systems expert Gary Zhang, from the Calgary area. Moser says that Kenyon, who from his 15 years with the RCMP, had the initial idea for a rural crime app that would allow for the instant sharing of crimes and photos with neighbours and with police. By chance, Kenyon attended a presentation from MRF Geosystems, by Zhang, on geographic information systems (GIS). GIS is a framework for gathering, managing, and analyzing data, integrating layers of information and spatial locations into maps. The company provides this service to half of Alberta’s counties, giving them a real depth of knowledge about rural Alberta. Moser says Kenyon approached Zhang afterwards about his idea, and shortly thereafter a company was formed between the three, and the Crowd Security app was created. Zhang’s company is responsible for the design of the app. So what exactly does the app do? Crimes and suspicious activity can be reported and shared via the app, with pictures, videos, and texts. That’s where the GIS information kicks in, pinpointing where the activities are happening, and sending alerts to
other users in range. “While police are enroute, citizens in the area can safely keep an eye on what’s happening and continue to report, leaving a trail of evidence for police.” Moser says the more people who use the app in a specific area, the more information can be shared. The team believes that part of the reason why rural property crime rates are higher than those in urban areas is due to a number of factors, including longer police response times due to distances involved, fewer witnesses, the trusting nature of rural Albertans, and an endless number of grid roads useable for a getaway after a crime is committed. “Our app solves these problems by enabling citizens to easily share information with other citizens in the area using the application.”
Moser says the East 13 Rural Crime Watch has had a number of successes in helping police apprehend criminals, but this is largely dependent on someone, usually him, being available to update the society’s social media, something he’s not al-
ways available to do. He says, “Technology is the only way we can solve some of these property crime issues.” The app eliminates the need for a central organization to be active and on hand to share citizen’s information or photos, but
will give rural crime watches an effective tool for sharing instant information among members.
The group says, “It’s not a new solution, as it draws from the See NEW APP Fall 11
Strome Seed Cleaning Plant We Appreciate Your Business!
Saluting our farmers!
Your Independent Insurance Broker.
Contact us with ith all ll off your marketing k ti needs! 780-376-3573
Viking Insurance Viking Registries 780-336-4711
IRMA
We salute farmers of today and tomorrow because they keep us fed. Without farmers and farming industries we would not be provided with the great variety of food we enjoy today.
Thank You
From Management, 0 ûČ & Board of the Irma Co-operative Association 780-754-3654
To those that work In acres, not in hours..... We are proud to support you!
For all your crop input needs Killam - 780-385-2230 Forestburg - 780-582-3887 Strome - 780-376-3552
IRMA INSURANCE SERVICES FARM - AUTO - HOME - COMMERCIAL
Ph: 780-754-2121 Fax: 780-754-2239 Email: irmainsurance@baughan.ca
Thanks to all our Farmers!
Page 10 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
WE’RE PROUD TO SUPPORT AREA FARMERS Stop by our dealership in Killam for all your Case IH equipment needs.
FIND US: ROCKYMTN.COM
@RMEHQ
RME KILLAM 4707 - 51 AVE. TEL: (780) 385-3652
2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 11
New App Continued from Fall 9 formation of the first modern police force in 1829 by Sir Robert Peel. “He said, ‘The police are the public and the public are the police; the police being only members of the public who are paid to give full time attention to duties which are incumbent on every citizen in the interests of community welfare and existence.’” Moser feels the greatest strengths of the app are not only the ability to pinpoint locations where rural crime or suspicious activity is taking place, but also that it empowers citizens to report information on an ‘as happening’ basis. Where social media depends on users to be actively monitoring rural crime accounts continuously to be as effective, the app sends out alerts to all users, with activity mapped, and allows users to share texts, photos, and even video, along with notification when police have been called. When rural crime watch societies tap into their member bases and promote the app, that’s when the real power of crowd sourcing occurs. Using Crowd Security, citizens can safely report activity to their neighbours that allows police to track criminal’s movement or suspicious activities as they move through a rural area in real time. Users can also choose to share posts in social media, too. Kenyon said earlier this year as the app was set to roll out, “There have been numerous recent incidents where the general public is so frustrated and feels helpless to protect their property where they are chasing the criminals and putting themselves and others at great risk.
“The use of this app should eliminate that risk, which is never recommended because of the dangers it poses to them and others.” Another advantage in the app is that users may be more likely to share information with each other before involving police. By users sharing information and photos of suspicious vehicles or persons with one another, a database of information and images can be started before a crime is even committed, allowing police to have access to a more complete picture if a crime does arise from suspicious activity. This is especially helpful when criminals cross into different police jurisdictions, as often happens during rural crime sprees. Users can specify the radius of activities they want to be notified about right in the application. Moser says the app is continually being upgraded. Developers are working on a Property Vault feature, allowing users to document high-end purchases, with photos and copies of receipts, helpful when reporting theft to police and to insurance companies. He says they are also looking at the ability to tie in home security technology, live feeds from security cameras, and more, even exploring the possibility of tying in artificial intelligence that would allow for more specific identification of vehicles, for instance instead of a “red SUV,” AI could help pinpoint a “red Dodge Durango.” It’s a grassroots idea, empowering rural residents on a completely voluntary basis. The founders say, “Talk to everyone you know, about the Crowd Security App, more people
using the App means more information to be shared, making it easier to stop and lower crime in your area.” The app is presently free of charge, and is available through Apple apps for the iPhone or iPad, and Google Play for android devices, with links to both on the crowdsecurity.ca website.
COUTTS HOME HARDWARE
Canada’s Paint Experts
We Offer In-Store
MatchRight Custom Computer Colour Matching or In-Home Capture We Offer 250ml Colour Matching Sample Cans
We Offer Computer Controlled Colourant Dispensing
Tara is our Colour Consultant, and is available for In-Store or In-Home Colour Consulting
Buy 6, Get 1 FREE on ALL Beauti-Tone Paint
COUTTS HOME HARDWARE Forestburg, AB Toll Free 1-866-582-3556 Open 8:30am to 5:30pm Monday to Saturday LATE SHOPPING THURSDAYS 7 to 9 pm
We Offer Colouring & Mixing up to 5 Gal Pails
Page 12 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
ReVive Wood
From Power Poles to Masterpieces “These poles carry the story of our country, the story of this land, and it is now our responsibility to ReVive them from waste. ReVive Wood is set to honour the legacy of the trees and give the wood new life. We honour the trees and the land through sound business practices and environmentally responsible reclamation.”
• Custom Cut Timber Orders • Furniture • Fireplace Mantels • Garden Pavilions • Gazebos • Pergolas • and much more!
Killam, AB 780-385-5640 revivewood0@gmail.com
ReVive Wood ...from an out of the woods mill....
ReVive Wood
2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 13
Killam, Alberta
www.BeDevil.ca
24
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Page 14 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
Women in Ag Continued from Fall 5
women entrepreneurs to capitalize on the opportunities that will come with our increased support.” Farm Credit Canada says it is committed to empowering women in agriculture, agribusiness and food. “Through our research and discussions with women in agriculture, we discovered three key needs: increased access to capital to start or grow their business, access to business and competency skill development for themselves and their business, and access to tools, resources, and people to learn from and be inspired.” FCC President and CEO Michael Hoffort adds, “FCC is proud to contribute to the success of women entrepreneurs who want to become more deeply involved in the agriculture and agrifood industry. “The response to our lending and learning programs – specifically tailored to the individual needs of women entrepreneurs – has been tremendous and will undoubtedly contribute to a stronger and more diversified industry." The Women Entrepreneurship program provides women with access to capital needed to
launch or grow their business, along with tools, resources, and mentorship. As part of the Women Entrepreneur Program, borrowers can also have up to $1,000 of their processing fees waived to reinvest into both personal and professional development that best suits their individual and
business needs. The funds, for example, can be used to pay tuition for a college or to attend in-person or online learning events.
Farm Credit Canada has been offering a series of events to inspire and complement a broad range of meaningful skill development opportuni-
ties. Over the past several decades, the proportion of female farm operators has increased. In 1996, women repre-
sented 25.3 per cent of farm operators. By 2016, that proportion had risen to 28.7 per cent, accounting for 77,830 female farm operators.
185053 www.stmichaellandfill.ca 18553 Township Road 562 780.702.9880 HOURS: Tuesday - Saturday 9 - 4:30 pm CLOSED Sunday, Monday and all statutory holidays
Double A Trailer Factory Now Hiring!
May the sun shine bright and the weather hold, for this fall harvest.
Multiple positions available, OFFERING A $500 SIGN UP BONUS! - Welders (steel or aluminum) - Steel Fabricators, Band Saw Operators - Wiring, Trailer Decking Offering: - competetive wages (based on experince) - Benefits available - Bonus program paid out each pay period - Day shift and evening shift Please send resumes to info@conqur.ca or drop off in person at 4802 57 Ave., Two Hills, AB
780-764-2272 5219 - 50 Street, Mundare, AB.
Thank you ~ to our local farmers ~ have a safe har vest!
M a y o r, C o u n c i l & Staff
~ T O OUR LOCAL FARMERS ~ May the sun shine down until the last of your harvest is in.
(780) 895-7620
5012 47 Ave, Lamont, AB
One thing I’ve learned in my life on the farm ... never give up!
Yep, It’s our rule to live by...
To all of our farmers, it has been a tough go this year, never give up, you shall persevere!
C ONSORT 403-577-3899 L AMONT 780-895-2389 S T . P AUL 780-645-4465 V EGREVILLE 780-632-6772 V ERMILION 780-853-5196 WAINWRIGHT 780-842-4408
2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 15
5116 116 - 61 Ave. A V Viki Viking, k AB T0B 0B 4N0 780-336-4048 www.vikingvetclinic.com follow us on Facebook or Instagram!
Viking Auction Market Ltd. Corner of Hwy 26 & 36 780-336-2209
Full service Veterinary Clinic for all your Bovine/Equine/Small Animal Needs
S E L A S E L T T A REGULAR C OR F Y A D S E U ONLY ON T TURE U F E L B A E THE FORSE 6, 13,
t Sept 29, Oc am 20, 27 at 9
Effective Immediately: Extending our on call hours to 24/7 for all your animals needs
Cliff Grinde 780-336-6333
Pregnancy Testing Cows!
We now have 2 Ultrasound Machines and 3 Veterinarians so we can pregnancy test your herd at your convenience. The ideal timing to Preg. Test is at 2-5 months pregnant. Call to book your appointment.
Darcy Sheets 780-336-6485 Robert Kunnick 780-336-6301
Deworming Horses in the Fall We recommend waiting for the first good frost before deworming in the fall. Call the clinic to see which dewormer is right for your horse!
Mel Pydde 780-933-0048 Ed McCormack 780-787-0083
Toe Nail Trim Thursday: Dogs, Cats and Rabbits Welcome! We do this service every day of the week, but offer specials on Thursdays!
Dr. Pru Maxwell, Dr. Lacey Fowler, Dr. Lauren Ricer, Dr. Jillian Russnak
www.vikingauctionmarket.ca
RECAPPERS • RECAPPERS • RECAPPERS • RECAPPER
PACKER WHEEL
for drill press wheels
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FOR ALL YOUR CAP NEEDS 2 piece caps (3/16 material) for easy installation
The Ultimate Vertical CROP CUTTER D65
Available at:
McNabb Welding & AgSales Parts Crossroads Parts
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This is a vertical crop cutter mounted on ends of swather (Divider Boards). The use of Rotoshear eliminate`s build up of materials on the end of the table. Rotoshear also eliminates uneven curing , and beaver huts in your swath. As a result of uneven swath your now able to travel at a faster speeds while Order yours today !
McNABB WELDING ROTOR-SHEAR@ FORESTBURG WELDING & MACHINING & AG PARTS info@mcnabbconstruction.ca www.rotoshear.com www.mcnabbconstruction.ca
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RE-CAPS With 37 different sizes and three profile of caps, we can provide caps for most packer wheels on the market. Material is 7 gauge or 3/16 and two piece for easy installation.
Merlin Bady, Pres., PHONE: 780-582-3581 Box 667, Forestburg, AB 780-582-2478 FAX: Toll Free: 1-877-582-3637 4107 - 53 STREET
780-582-3637 Fax: 780-582-3732 AB. FORESTBURG,
• Propane Bottle Refills up to 100 lbs • Custom Made Battery Cables for All Equipment • Custom Made Air Hoses
Page 16 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
Equitation Clinic held in Viking
A working equitation clinic, put on by the Viking Equine Outriders 4-H Club, was held at the Cloverlodge Stampede Grounds the weekend of Sept. 19 and 20. English, Western and Spanish style were all eligible to participate. The levels started from walk trot and went to advanced master’s classes. Working equitation comes from Spain and Portugal and is a great way to train horses and have a lot of fun! The 4-H club made burgers and goodies, as well as served hot and cold drinks. Clinician Deb Ericksen from Cochrane, originally from Viking, was also on hand for the clinic.
Salute to Agriculture!
with a big
(780) 583-2476
McGOWAN 24 hour emergency service Small & Large Animal Medicine & Surgery Small & Large Animal Digital Radiology In-House Lab including blood work, urinalysis and culture
Maximize your profit this winter… Book a fall herd health visit.
WELDING LTD.
Dealer for:
HOSKINS INS CATTLE WATERERS Feed Bins Portable Panels Portable Wind Breaks Cattle Sheds Gates and Panels Sileage Bunks & More Dealer for: 2W
Discuss preventative medicine and herd management while preg checking your herd.
Iron Creek Veterinary Hospital For all your pet and livestock needs
Sedgewick, AB 780-384-0003 Happy Harvest to all of our local Producers!
• Oilfield, Rig & Industrial welding • General Welding & Manufacturing • ‘On-the-spot’ Portable Service • Ornamental Iron Railings • Bobcat Services Bernie McGowan - Killam, AB Ph: 780-385-3808 Residence: 780-385-2118
2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 17
Grain storage
Continued Continued from from Page Fall 82
times remain in storage for more than a year as producers try to wait out market downturns. He noted that the actual cost of storage is more than just the purchase price for the grain bin. Set up costs can be significant if it includes a concrete floor, temperature monitoring systems and aeration. Annual depreciation needs to be considered along with repairs and maintenance, and that can amount to an annual cost of upwards of 25 cents a bushel. Furtas added that grain bin prices have been steadily climbing over the last five years. The figure here shows that the purchase price of a 5,000 bushel bin has increased from $3.80 per bushel in 2015 to $4.80 per bushel in 2020. “Steel – both corrugated and smooth walled – grain bin prices are driven by both market demand and steel prices,” Furtas said. “Producers in Alberta have been investing in permanent on-farm storage.”
Alberta grain bin prices. According to Statistics Canada’s July 2020 survey, Alberta producers have approximately 27.5 million tonnes of permanent on-farm grain storage capacity, compared to 25 million tonnes just five years ago. “The Statistics Canada report also states that approximately nine per cent of reported grain stocks using temporary on farm storage such as grain bags,” Furtas explained. “This shows that producers are using both temporary and permanent storage options on their farm. However, the overwhelming preference is for permanent storage. “The decision to use either permanent or temporary storage is unique, and it boils down to each
OK Tire Tofield 5031-53 Ave, Tofield 780-662-3003
Wishing the farmers a successful Harvest!
D&D Septic Services Ryley: 780-663-2147 Camrose: 780-679-9219 Cell: 780-984-2000 • Septic Cleanings • Pump Sales • Portable toilet rentals Serving the areas of Camrose, Viking, Daysland, Tofield and More!
individual’s situation. Generally, permanent storage is preferred to maintain grain quality and for the ease of use.”
The Tofield Mercury stocks stationery supplies Copy and specialty paper, envelopes, clips, markers, highlighters and more
Wishing All Our Farmers A Successful Harvest! Our family farmers are the heart and soul of our agriculture industry!
Jackie Lovely Come in and take advantage of our low prices
MLA, CAMROSE CONSTITUENCY OFFICE: #104, 4870-51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1
Phone: 780-672-0000
Email: camrose@assembly.ab.ca
Page 18 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
Thank you to all our local businesses for wishing our farmers a happy harvest! Wishing the best for the farmers
THE TOFIELD AGRICULTURE SOCIETY WANTS TO WISH THE FARMERS A GREAT HARVEST SEASON!!!
during this harvest season!
780-662-3707
780-663-3653 • ryley.ca 780-918-9300 Greg Litwin, Realtor® 5118 - 50 Street, Tofield
Tofield Hotel 780-662-3116
or 780-916-8642
Wishing the best for the farmers during harvest time!
Wishing all the farmers a plentiful harvest season!
Tofield Bottle Depot would like to wish the farmers a great harvest season!
Wishing the farming community an abundant harvest!
780-662-0085
Covid-19 Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm We are located at 5304 - 56 St. We sort your bottles!
Wishing the best for our farmers during this years harvest!
780-662-3936
780-662-4400
Thank you farmers!
Busy B
BLR Services Inc.
Ryley Sausage wishes you all the best this harvest season!
North store 780-662-4116 South store 780-662-4325 Wishing all the farmers a successful harvest!
Licensed Heavy Duty Mechanic
Phone: 780-663-3990
Volunteers are welcome!
Beaver County Seed Cleaning would like to wish the farmers a bountiful harvest season!
Phone: 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB
780-662-3334
Mobile & Shop Services Agriculture – Construction – Tractor/Trailer
I am available to help you keep all of your machinery running smoothly.
Call Bryan @ 780-686-6344
5018 - 52nd Avenue, Tofield
Wishing all the farmers a successful harvest season!
Tofield Car, RV, & Truck Wash
Economy Concrete
780-913-5318
Farmers are our bread and butter.
Wishing our farming community all the best during the harvest season! Marsha Matiyek • 780-662-4886
Thanks for all you do!
780-662-2600
Wishing everyone a bountiful harvest!
2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 19
Celebrate Alberta Culture Days at Reynolds-Alberta Museum (780) 226-4772
NOW BOOKING : ALL CLEAN SF PRING CLEANUPS UPS
~ A E R AT I O N ~ F E RT I L I Z I N G ~ S O D E D G I N G ~ FLOWER BED CLEAN UP & ROTOTILLING
ADDITIONAL DDITIONAL S SERVICES ERVICES A
~ E AV E S T R O U G H C L E A N I N G ~ EXTERIOR WINDOW CLEANING ~ P R E S S U R E WA S H I N G ~ D U M P R U N S ~ T R E E T R I M M I N G & R E M O VA L ~ STUMP GRINDING
SERVICES
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~ BOBCAT SERVICES ~ BOOKING SNOW REMOVAL
FULLY INSURED Leslie Cholowsky Alberta Culture Days is an event celebrating Alberta’s wide and diverse culture and history, and is part of a Canada-wide celebration happening this September. The Province says, “Alberta Culture Days is an opportunity to discover, experience and celebrate arts and culture through local events and activities, in person and online across the province.” Reynolds-Alberta Museum, in Westaskiwin, has designated September as its agriculture month, and has been holding special demonstrations and displays all month long. Earlier in the month, a demonstration of steam engines in the field was held, and museum staff have developed tractor displays that changes weekly. Communications Head Cynthia Blackmore says that the current pandemic forced the cancellation of Reynold’s annual Harvest Festival, and many of the museum’s interactive displays, but says there’s still plenty to see and do See REYNOLDS Fall20
There are still a few dates available to book a behind-thescenes Warehouse Tour at the ReynoldsAlberta Museum in Westaskiwin. They run only to the end of September.
~
BASED IN
LAMONT
SERVING URBAN & RURAL
PHOTOS COURTESY REYNOLDS-ALBERTA MUSEUM
Trevor Mikolajczyk
~ WE HAVE THE PERSON FOR THE JOB ~
~ COMMERCIAL GRASS CUTTING ~ L A N D S C A P I N G & YA R D M A I N T E N A N C E
~ B O B C AT ~ D U M P T R U C K ~ C U S T O M M E TA L R E N O ’ S mk98ltd@mcsnet.ca ~ HANDY MAN JOBS 780-975-8343 ~ BRUSH CUTTING
They enhance the lives of people in our community, our country and around the world by producing the best foods and fibers. They take chances; brave harsh weather; and work long, hard hours to bring us the finest quality products. They're our area farmers, and we're happy to salute and support them! We salute the dedicated men and women of our agricultural industry. Their commitment to produce a thriving variety of crops and livestock requires long hours, risk and hard work. Our hats go off to you! ~ Staff and Management
Ag Solu ons Viking, AB. 780.336.3180 www.nutrienagsolutions.ca
Guenter’s Mechanical 13024 Hwy 14
780-336-1330 Thank you to all the farmers
Farmers, thank you for all that you do! ~ Irma Mayor, council, staff and residents
Page 20 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
Reynolds Museum Continued from Fall 19 this fall. Reynolds Museum is all about celebrating machines, and features the Canadian National Aviation Hall of Fame. “It’s a great place to come if you like automobiles and machinery, too,” said one visitor recently, as he shared his experience at the Museum on YouTube. If you act before September, there’s still time to take advantage of this year’s behind-the-scenes Warehouse Tours, where groups of up to six people maximum can enjoy a 75-minute tour of the historic treasures house in the Reynold’s warehouse, including incredible vehicles. Warehouse tours should be prebooked, and are not wheelchair or scooter accessible, involving a great deal of walking and stairs. Closed-toe and closed-heel shoes are required for the warehouse tours, and face masks must be worn. Tours can be booked online at: reynoldsmuseum.ca under the heading programs and experiences. The Warehouse Tours run only to the end of September, with just a few dates available to book, but start again next summer. The museum is open year round, with general admission of $15 for children, $11 for seniors, and $9 for youth (7-17). Children under 7 are free, but must still be included when booking tickets online. The museum has made some changes to exhibits, incorporating COVID19 safety measures and social distancing. Museum exhibits are housed in two separate buildings connected by a paved walkway. The museum is also participating in Alberta Culture Days, over Sept. 25 through 27, where 30 spots are available every half-hour over the three days. Admission is free during Culture Days, but tickets for this event must still be booked online. Some of the Culture Days experiences include a grain elevator demonstration, rope making, curbside chats about the 1917 Waterloo Thresher, and scavenger hunts, as well as a visit to the Aviation Display Hangar. Blackmore says that even with changes to some displays due to COVID-19, the Reynolds Museum offers something to see for everyone.
PHOTOS COURTESY REYNOLDS-ALBERTA MUSEUM
September is Agriculture Month at the Reynolds-Alberta Museum in Westaskiwin, with a number of special agriculture-themed displays updated weekly. Special events are also planned for the upcoming Alberta Culture Days at the Museum. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, bookings should be made online.
From seeding g to ship pping pp g g,,
Thank you, Farmers It can ttake k years off effort ff t and d planning l i tto b build ild a productive farm. Many exist today only because they have been passed from one caring generation to the next. It is our pleasure to pay tribute to the stability of our farming community and to those who have worked so hard to make it successful.
DAYSLAND PHARMACY Daysland, AB (780) 374-3900
IT IS OUR PLEASURE TO
SERVE ALL AREA FARM FAMILIES.
WE THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO AND WISH YOU A SUCCESSFUL HARVESTSEASON
!
Viking, AB 780-336-4944
We’ve watched farming advance from ploughs to precision combines. Across a century of agriculture, one thing hasn’t We know relationships are the cornerstone of our business; we’re proud to be part of the informed decisions on your farm.
Find us at
www.PARRISHANDHEIMBECKER.com
Dakota Crop Inputs Sedgewick, Alberta
Viking Grain and Crop Inputs
780-384-2265
780-336-2413
2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 21
Imported onion recalls expanded as cases rise Leslie Cholowsky As the Public Health Agency of Canada continues to investigate an outbreak of salmonella infections occurring across the country, exposure to red onions imported from the USA has been identified as the probable cause of the outbreak. “Many of the ill individuals under investigation reported having eaten red onions before getting sick.” Tracing information has identified that the contaminated red onions are coming from Thomson International Inc from Bakersfield, California. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued food recall warnings for related products that have possibly been distributed nationally, with additional food recall warnings possible. “Given this information, and until more is known about the outbreak, the CFIA said on Monday, Sept. 14: “do not eat, use, sell, or serve any red, yellow, white, and sweet yellow onions grown by Thomson International Inc. of Bakersfield, California, USA, or any products made with these onions. “This advice applies to all individuals across Canada, as well as retailers, distributors, manufacturers, and food service establishments such as hotels, restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals, and nursing homes.” Recall warnings on onions do not apply to onions grown in Canada. As of last Monday, there have been 506 confirmed cases of Salmonella Newport illness related to this outbreak, including 292 in Alberta.
This has affected individuals from one to 100, with just over half of the affected individuals being female. Health Canada reports that individuals who became ill reported eating red onions at home, in menu items ordered at restaurants, and in residential care settings. Health Canada recommends that individuals not eat, use, sell, or serve any red, white, yellow, and sweet yellow onions from Thomson International Inc. or any products made with these onions. That includes prepared foods that contain onions as an ingredient. Residents are urged to look at any onions they have purchased for a label showing where the onion was grown. “If the packaging or sticker shows Thomson International Inc., don’t eat it. Throw it away and wash your hands.” If you purchase bulk onions, ask the store to make sure they are not selling onions from Thomson International Inc. or serving fresh foods prepared with them. If you order salad or other food items containing onions at a restaurant, ask staff if the onions came from Thomson International Inc. Most of the infections occurred during July, but Health Canada extended the warnings last week, as salmonella can take two to four weeks before the illness is reported to public health officials. Health Canada says salmonella symptoms usually last for four to seven days. In healthy people, salmonellosis often clears up without treatment, but sometimes antibiotics may be
required. In some cases, severe illness may occur and hospitalization may be required. People who are infected with See ONIONS Fall 23
Serving Your Community Since 1906
For the Little Harvest Crew
Save 20% on Toys in October 780-385-3993 www.briltd.com
Page 22 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
School’s in for Fall - Canada Safety Council advises While 2020 has brought new safety protocols and regulations across the spectrum of day-to-day life, not every safety issue is a new discussion. As a new academic year approaches, the Canada Safety Council wants to remind you that school buses will be returning to the roads. Exercising caution and being attentive is always of paramount importance and particularly so as school activity resumes. “The quieter roads over the spring and summer has had a positive influence in creating a more relaxed driving experience” said Gareth Jones, President and CEO of the Canada Safety Council. “However, we are headed back into a school season where we can expect a sharp increase in vehicle activity. With that increase, it is so very important to remind ourselves that we need to plan more time for the drive, heighten our situational awareness, and call upon our reserve in patience as we all adjust to the changes in traffic. Road safety happens individual by individual and moment by moment which means that each of us has a role to play in keeping the roads safe.” School buses have a longstanding history of safety and in fact are known to be the safest way to transport children to and from school. However, according to Transport Canada, 79 per cent of all school-aged fatalities involving a school bus occur outside the bus and in or near school bus loading zones.
It’s our collective responsibility as road users to do our part in keeping children safe before they get on the bus and after they get off, too. As a motorist, always keep up a scan of your surroundings and make note of any school-aged children waiting by the road. Be prepared to stop if there’s an approaching bus. Provincial and municipal laws and by-laws may vary, but
generally forbid passing a school bus when its signal lights are flashing and its stop sign is extended — this is to protect children who may need to cross the road or interact with traffic. Be sure you’re aware of specific school bus laws in
your region. The predictable behaviours we expect of adults interacting with traffic may not be fully developed in children, meaning that it’s always best to err on the side of caution and anticipate sudden and unusual movements
LAMONT FOODS 780.895.2080
when children are present. Drive slowly and cautiously, leaving plenty of time and space for you to react if necessary. School zones are another area where caution is vital, as it provides a mix of vulnerable road users and
To our
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ocal
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transient traffic that includes cyclists, pedestrians, buses and personal vehicles. Always follow the posted speed limit, being mindful of your surroundings and obeying directives from crossing guards where applicable.
armers
H av e a s af e & b o u n t i f u l h ar v e s t .
May the sun shine until the last crop is brought in, We wish all of our farmers the best of luck this harvest! LAMONT
Mayor, Council and Staff
5109 50 Ave Lamont, AB
780-895-2454 SMOKY LAKE 3 Wheatland Ave Smoky Lake, AB
780-656-3690
– ON THE PRAIRIES –
Printed Community Newspapers
To our farmers, Thank you for all you do! We wish a safe & plentiful harvest for everyone.
are the
MO MOST ST TRUS TRUSTED TED ATFORM TFOR T PLA PLATFORM FOR N
OUR LOCAL FARMERS
&
THEIR FAMILIES ,
MAY YOU HAVE A SAFE HARVEST
NTENT
(780) 632-7474
All the best to our farmers this harvest!
ANDREW GROCERY In a recent s mmunities of less th rairies, printed community newspapers ranked
5025 51 St, Andrew (780) 606-0086
#1 for for Trust Trust in News News and Advertising Advertising Content Content
83% Printed Community Newspaper
70% 63% Radio
Television
61%
56%
Online Community Newspaper
Farm Publication
How Geography Impacts Media Access, Usage and Engagement: January 2020 To otum Research: Interview timing Dec. 2019/Jan. J 2020. Random Sample Adults 18+ Using Computer Assisted Telephone e Interview (CA ATI) T Method with a margin of error of +/- 3.3% at 95% confidence level with 900 interviews AB/SK/MB
29% Social Media
~ Thank you ~ To all of our Local Farmers
2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020 - Page 23
RCMP disheartened by weekend impaireds On Sept. 19, the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP conducted a Checkstop on Highway 21 at 84 Street which resulted in the arrest of two impaired drivers and immediate roadside suspensions of an additional two drivers. • At 10:49 p.m., the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP launched into an impaired driving investigation, after receiving a tip from a concerned member of the public who reported a vehicle driving erratically. As a result, RCMP members were successful in locating the vehicle and the driver was arrested for Impaired Operation of a Motor Vehicle. The driver was transported to the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP Detachment and two breath samples found to be twice the legal limit of .08 were obtained.
The 26-year-old male was released from custody with a court date of Nov. 5, in Fort Saskatchewan. • At 11 a.m., the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP conducted a traffic stop. A subsequent mandatory alcohol screening demand was issued to the driver and after a ‘Caution’ test result was received the driver, a 37year-old male from Edmonton, was issued a three day immediate roadside suspension. • At 12:13 a.m., the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP conducted a traffic stop. A subsequent mandatory alcohol screening demand was issued to the driver and after a ‘Caution’ test result was received the driver, a 49-year-old male from BC, was issued a three day immediate roadside suspension.
• At 1 a.m., the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP conducted a traffic stop. A subsequent mandatory alcohol screening demand was issued to the driver and after a ‘Failed’ test result was received the driver was arrested for Impaired Operation of a Motor Vehicle. The driver was transported to the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP Detachment and two breath samples found to be over the legal limit of .08 were obtained. The 25-year-old male was released from custody with a court date of Oct. 22 in Edmonton. “I am disheartened that there are so many impaired drivers on the roads. I hope this article is a reminder that we are out there patrolling the streets looking for drunk drivers and we will catch you, so please
Onion Recall
stayconnected This information can be especially pertinent for individuals with severe food allergies, as
recalls sometimes are made because of improperly marked products that contain common allergens.
Continued from Fall 21
Salmonella bacteria can be infectious from several days to several weeks. People who experience symptoms, or who have underlying medical conditions, should contact their health care provider if they suspect they have a Salmonella infection. Recalls have been expanded to include not just the onions, but products made with them, including salsa, crab cakes, salads, and packaged sandwiches. A full list of products and manufacturers under the recall can be found at inspection.gc.ca. The CFIA also maintains a number of social media accounts, on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, as well as a recalls and safety alerts mobile application, see more at. www.inspection.gc.ca/
use alternative transportation when you have been drinking.” Inspector Mike McCauley – Officer in charge – Fort
Saskatchewan RCMP. Alberta RCMP members are committed to visible and proactive traffic enforcement and believe that along with
assistance from the public in reporting any suspected impaired drivers everyone can do their part to ensuring safer roads.
We would like to take this time to thank all the farmers in our region, and wish them all a wonderful year.
Rail Safety Week September 21- 27, 2020
www.BattleRiverRailway.ca www.purelycanada.ca Office: 780-582-2493
Page 24 - 2020 FALL SECTION, September 23, 2020
Wishing all our farmers a GREAT HARVEST SEASON. We hope that the farmers have a great harvest!
Thank you to our farming community for their essen al service!
Tofield 780-662-4091
We would like to wish the farmers all the best during harvest season!
Grooming appointments: 780-243-0206
Boarding Services:
www.claystonewaste.com
780.633.2038
780-243-3206
GET ALL YOUR LOCAL NEWS!
CaughtCALL you looking. ADVERTISE! 780-662-4046
We wish the farming community a bountiful harvest season!
• Farm • Residential • Commercial
24 hour service Wishing the best for the farming community during the harvest season!
Wishing all the farmers in Beaver County and surrounding areas a successful and safe harvest season. Thank you for all you do for our local communities! Contact Larry Pederson Phone: 780-777-1054 Email: dispatch@pfitrux.com