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Wednesday April 29, 2020 Vol. 102 Issue 35

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Tofield Sodbuster Rodeo cancelled amidst COVID-19 concerns

Tofield dog owner issued ticket after previous warnings

131,722 people tested for COVID19, latest updates from the province

Page 2

Page 4

Page 7

Successful Snow Goose Festival that never happened

Big snow goose flocks spotted and photographed on Saturday, April 25, south of Holden. Please see Page 8 and 14 for story and more images. MOUSH JOHN PHOTO

Page 2 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020

38th Tofield Sodbuster Rodeo cancelled Moush John

Tofield Mercury

It’s never easy to cancel a staple of a small community like Tofield, but

that’s the tough decision that Dave Barrecloth, President of the Tofield

May 8th Grad Car Parade @ 2 pm!

Friday, May 8 was the original date for this year’s grad at Tofield School. Grad is postponed until a new date can be set. In the meantime, we would still like to honour and recognize the Tofield School Grad Class of 2020 on Friday, May 8th with a Grad CAR PARADE! Starting at 2 PM, the Grads, along with the RCMP, and the Tofield Fire Department, will work their way through the streets of Tofield (see the map below).

Social Distancing Rules Still Apply!

Agricultural Society that organizes the Sodbuster Rodeo in partnership with Town of Tofield each year had to make.

“In March we jointly agreed to close the Tofield Arena for the best interest of the public,” said Barrecloth. “Unfortunately a month later we were forced to do the same for the Bull Bash and Tofield Sodbuster Rodeo to ensure that we follow proper protocol but more importantly look after our community as a whole.”

The Ag Society has been in contact with all affected parties to explain their position with these events and needs.

“This support that we get from or sponsors, volunteers and community organizations that help every year pull off these Continued on Page 9

Images from the 36th Sodbuster Rodeo. MOUSH JOHN PHOTOS

CONGRATULATE YOUR SON/DAUGHTER ON THEIR GRADUATION!

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020 - Page 3

Fire engulfs residence in town, one casualty Moush John Tofield Mercury

On Sunday, April 26, at 00:43 hrs, the Tofield Fire Department was notified of a confirmed structure fire at 503255th Ave. “We responded within nine minutes of the call, with the first unit responding on scene at 00:53 hrs,” said Dave Oleksyn, Tofield Fire Chief.

On scene the back section of a single family dwelling was fully engulfed in flames, according to Oleksyn.

“Fire crew immediately started to extinguish the fire and rescue crew proceeded to search the building,” Oleksyn explained. “A

single occupant was found in the house, and was extricated and immediately handed to EMS.” Unfortunately, the occupant succumbed shortly after to his injuries.

“We were on the scene until the fire had been take care of completely,” Oleksyn added. “With the high winds and its intensity, we faced some challenges as well while on site. However, the confirmed cause is still unknown, and we’re still investigating the cause of the fire.”

The fire appeared to have spread from a backyard fire pit that was previously extinguished but re-ignited in the high winds.

C. W. Sears Elementary School is now accepting Kindergarten registrations for the 2020-2021 school year.

Children must be five years old by December 31, 2020 to register.

We will need a copy of your childʼs birth certificate, your legal land description (if applicable), and your 911 address (applies to rural residents only).

https://www.brsd.ab.ca/download/190499 You can also arrange to pick up a paper copy of the registration form at the school if you do not have internet access. Please call 780-662-3010.

If you have a 3 or 4 year old child who has been recommended to apply for Program Unit Funding (PUF) support by a medical professional, AHS, or current Speech and Language consultant, please contact the BRSD Division Office to be considered for the limited program spaces for the 2020-21 school year. You will be required to complete an application and provide current assessment reports. The number to call is 780-672-6131 or forward name, age and reports to inclusion@brsd.ab.ca.

Details of the program, such as days / times will be shared with you as soon as they are available. At this time, we are only accepting applications from this group. It is possible additional Pre-K program spaces may become available later in the spring.

Every Student, Every Day, A Success.

Council Corner Town of Tofield to work with citizens and businesses for utilities & taxes Friends, a far more sullen tone to this message than has been in previous weeks. We, as Tofield, Alberta and Canada are still experiencing the effects of COVID 19.

This has provided untold stresses and detriment to individuals, families and our economy. Now, this week we have seen the most horrendous of acts within our Country. The Province of Nova Scotia has been faced with a reality that none of us could ever prepare ourselves for and should never have to. On behalf of Council, I want to extend our thoughts, prayers and support to the Province of Nova Scotia and all of those impacted by these truly terrible acts.

As COVID 19 continues globally, we continue to see impacts that are further reaching than the

health implications of the virus itself. Mayor, Council and Administration have been asked by business owners and residents what plans or contingencies are being made in consideration of utilities and taxes. These are both very valid questions and are of grave concern to many in our community.

Unofficially, I can state that both of these pieces are currently in the works to find resolve for all, and a variety of scenarios are being presented for review.

The piece that may be unknown, is that a formal Bylaw amendment must be put forward in order to reduce penalties or to

defer payment. However, with this being said, once again unofficially, I can say that penalties are unlikely to be applied to utility accounts for a period of time.

Once again, this piece is currently in the works to come forward to Council for official review and motion. Please know, the Administration Office is more than happy to make payment arrangements and is very willing to work with our residents and business owners to find resolve. I would encourage anyone with concerns to reach out to the Administration Office to discuss this (780-662-3269).

During these unprecedented

Honour the past...

Build the Future

times it is the goal of Mayor, Council and Administration to serve the community we represent to the highest standard. In this breath, I should also like to state we must stand together and work as one, not against one another. Show each other respect and dignity. Treat all of our essential workers in the community with these graces, these people have incredibly difficult roles and each brings a benefit to Tofield.

Tofield, Beaver County, Alberta strong Sincerely, Mayor and Council

Page 4 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Dog owner issued ticket after previous warnings Cpl. Sheryl Cody Tofield RCMP

During the last week Tofield RCMP responded to 31 calls for service.

Members were dispatched to a complaint of a stolen truck overnight from a rural residence on April 21.

The keys were left in an old farm truck that was being worked on as it didn’t run properly. This turned out to be a good thing as the truck was

found abandoned a few miles north in the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP Detachment area.

On the afternoon of April 20, Tofield RCMP received a mischief complaint from the Beaverhill Motel. A white extended cab Chevy Silverado was seen driving across the grass from the Motel to the Esso, damaging the grass in the process.

The front driver’s side headlight is burned out and there is white writing at the bottom of the back passenger side window. This is still being investigated

by RCMP. The Tofield RCMP were dispatched to a complaint of a dog bite near Beaverhill Drive on April 21. The dog bit a young child riding a

bike, which required medical attention at the Tofield Health Centre. As the owner of the dog had been previously warned, they were issued a ticket under the Town of Tofield Municipal Bylaw for $500.

While on patrol on April 21, Tofield RCMP noticed smoke coming from a property on Hwy. 834 and Twp. Rd. 512.

The member contacted Tofield Fire Department for a grass fire that was quickly spreading due to the high winds in the area. No buildings were affected although some corrals were burned. The source of the fire was from a burn pit located on the property.

On April 22, there was a report of an abandoned minivan in the area of

Obituary ERNEST HENRY HERKLOTZ

It is with great sadness, we the family of Ernest Henry Herklotz, announce his sudden passing on April 18, 2020 at the age of 75 years.

Ernie is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 50 years, Donna, daughter Kimberly (Darrell) Gagne, grandchildren Briana Anderson, Braden Anderson, Shaelynn Gagne, Lorren Gagne; daughter Shelley Borton (Greg Baher),

grandchildren Scott (Ashley) Borton and great granddaughters Paisley & Allie, Brian (Amanda) Borton and great grandson Elliot, Nicholas (Amber) Borton and great grandson Nate; son Michael (Tracy) Herklotz and grandsons Owen and Evan; son Darren Herklotz (Teresa Grier) and grandchildren Lindsey (Zach) and Wyatt; Sister Chris (Marc) Tremblay; BrotherIn-laws Jerry (Marj) Herbert, Sam Herbert, Bernie (Peggy) Herbert, Doug Herbert, Andy (Cindy) Herbert, Armand Goubault; numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his par-

ents Mathilda and Karl Herklotz; parents In-Law Charlie and Dorothy Herbert; sister-inlaw Gail Goubault; brothers-in-law Art Herbert, Bob Herbert, Terry Herbert and Ernest Herbert.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of Alberta Hospital Foundation, the Alberta Cancer Foundation - Cross Cancer Institute or Stars Air Ambulance.

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

Twp. Rd. 494 between Rge. Rd. 180 and 181. A member attended and found that someone had tried to light the van on fire but it was contained to the driver’s seat area.

The vehicle was not reported stolen at that time and was registered to a cab company out of Fort McMurray. This investigation is ongoing.

Tofield RCMP received a report of a residential break-and-enter on April 22 near Twp. Rd. 521 and Rge. Rd 192. The residence was being rented and the tenant was only gone for a few hours.

Electronics and tools were taken from the residence. Neighbourhood inquiries were negative for any suspicious activity during the time frame.

On April 23, members

responded to a dog bite complaint in the area of 47 Street and 57 Ave in Tofield. A family had been riding their bikes when a dog came running at them and bit one of them on the foot. This file is still under investigation.

Tofield RCMP responded to a careless driving complaint in Holden on April 23rd.

The complaint was of a Chrysler 300 skidding and driving in circles around the cenotaph in the centre of town. The car was located in front of a residence in Holden.

Due to the statements and video footage provided by the numerous complainants, the Registered Owner of the car was issued a $567 ticket for stunting.

During the early morning hours of April 26, a Tofield RCMP member noticed flames shooting into the air in the west residential area of Tofield. Tofield Fire Department and EMS were dispatched to a house fire on 50th Street and 55 Ave. The house was fully engulfed when emergency services arrived on scene.

One person was located inside the residence and life-saving efforts were started by Fire and EMS. The fire appeared to have spread from a backyard fire pit that was previously extinguished but re-ignited in the high winds. The lone resident of the house succumbed to their injuries. This file is still under investigation.

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020 - Page 5

Loose Ends: Hissy fit

Carol Livingstone Tofield Mercury Columnist

The warmest day so far was too pleasant to ignore. People were out for walks in shirt sleeves, pushing babies in

strollers. Kids on bikes were everywhere. It was wonderful to see, especially considering our circumstances. Hubby was sitting out on the deck reading, a pastime he’d deserted because as much as he enjoyed it, it was too passive. Working in his garage used more muscles, including the big one between his ears.

I was enjoying the various bird calls; for a while there were only cawing crows and I’d been afraid the smaller birds weren’t

coming back. It was while all this was going on that Hubby decided a day such as this was meant for barbecuing.

The ground beef was already thawing, the onions sliced and condiments waited to be slathered on buns, but the first barbecue of the season was not happening without a few hiccups.

For a start, the grill was in a mood, displaying great reluctance to being asked to awaken from its long winter’s nap. Hubby ex-

plained it as having a hissy fit. The temperature never got higher than 300 degrees. So he started over, rebooting, he called it. The temperature rose slowly but he was able to put the burgers on, promising that we’d eat before midnight.

It was closer to seven and the burgers ended up, um, slightly overdone; not burnt, but definitely crispier around the edges than we like. Over the winter our pan-fried burgers were plump and

juicy; these were edible but a disappointment.

They say a little bit of charcoal in our diet is good for us but in this case I think ‘they’ are people who habitually serve burnt offerings on the barbie!

The real failure was the buns. With the temperature going up and down like a yoyo on elastic, Hubby found it difficult to judge the time needed to lightly toast them. I’m lying through my teeth if I call them crispy critters.

Revised data show protective measures, efforts of Albertans making a critical difference The Government of Alberta has introduced a new “low” modelling scenario estimating 298 Albertans will require hospitalization and 95 will require critical care when the virus reaches its peak. If current trends continue, this scenario will become the most likely scenario for Alberta.

Updated modelling scenarios continue to estimate that Alberta’s outbreak will reach its peak in late May. However, the number of Albertans hospitalized at the peak of the virus is predicted to be lower than originally estimated. This reflects

Alberta’s experience over the past few weeks and the proportion of cases actually entering hospital and intensive care units.

“The data show us that our efforts to lower the peak of the virus are working, but we must remain vigilant,” said Premier Jason Kenney. “We continue to refine our modelling in order to ensure our health-care system is prepared. While we are still a ways off from returning to our normal way of life, our government is working around the clock on a phased approach to relaunch our economy safely. It is essential Albertans continue to

exercise common sense and follow public health guidance so we can get the economy moving again as quickly as possible.”

As a result of aggressive public health measures put in place, the probable scenario now estimates 596 people in

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Fortunately, the freezer held replacements and the second try was perfect.

Hubby has taken the grill apart, whisking and oiling it, so there shouldn’t be any hissing and spitting or dark smoke clouds rising to harm the ozone next time we use it.

A fitting activity for today, Earth Day 2020, even though you won’t find it on the list of ways to help protect our planet.

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Page 6 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Keep the conversation going!

Facebook.com/TofieldMercury Twitter.com/TofieldMercury

Opinion

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

Humans racist against the human species

EDITORIAL Kerry Anderson Tofield Mercury Publisher

The more intelligent and successful the human species becomes, the more self-deprecating we seem to want to be.

First we began never-ending apologies for cultures and countries our ancestors once conquered, and now we are obsessed with asking forgiveness to the Earth itself for our domination as a species.

You’ve heard the cries: We’re killing the planet! We have to end fossil fuels or our species will be extinct within a few decades! We are over-populated!

There is too much pollution! The world is warming! The climate is changing!

GMOs are killing us!

Coral reefs in the oceans are beyond repair! The seas are

full of plastics!

If you think these roars are new, think again. People have been crying wolf about the planet ending since the industrial revolution.

Humans are the only species on earth ever, that knows we are on earth. We are the only species to know where earth is, or for that matter what a sun, galaxy or universe is. We’re the only species, which realizes that we will one day die or that our species will go extinct. When we begin to go extinct, we will be the first species ever in the history of the planet to know that is even happening . . . and 99.9 per cent of earth’s species are already extinct.

I guess what I am trying to say here is, maybe it is time to give humans a little credit. Instead of being anti-human, let’s be pro-human.

Let’s not live our lives as human racists.

I am reminded of a story on a cold winter day when stu-

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

dents at the University of Oxford, England, were protesting fossil fuels. The professor told them he could not divest the university of fossil fuels however, he said what he could do was cut the gas off, which was fueling the furnaces in the student dorms.

The students said they would not agree to that because of the dangers of the cold.

And there you have it. Earth is a turbulent planet. Not as turbulent as every other planet in our solar system, but still none the less turbulent. Most areas of the earth, humans can not survive upon without technology.

Besides 70 per cent being water, humans can only live in areas within 40 degrees longitude N or S without either manufactured heat, or seasonal migration.

Those close to the equator have the opposite problem because of the continuous pounding heat.

Could you imagine our ancestors trying

to live in Central Alberta without heat?

Because of the technology (fire), they could, but much of the time uncomfortably.

The human species has never been so successful. Our population has surpassed seven billion and our world-wide wealth and life expectancy has never been so high. We have never had as many conveniences, better health, time saving technology, speedy and safe

travel, less work hours or safer conditions.

Earth’s climate used to be responsible for many times more deaths than today in the form of hurricanes, earthquakes, and the like.

But because of our technology we can now prepare and often avoid impendeing climate turbulance.

The world is not a delicate flower. The last of five mass extinctions killed off most everything in-

cluding the dinosaurs 65,000,000 years ago, and they ruled the planet for 150 million years (humans have ruled .003 per cent of that).

After that famous astroid hit, the sun could not be seen for almost two years causing cold to engulf the planet.

Life survived.

I am all for picking up after ourselves, but let’s quit prosecuting the human species and appreciate the good we have done here.

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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, April 29, 2020 - Page 7

COVID-19 update: 1,800 confirmed recovered cases, with 154 new cases Last evening on April 28, the total number of cases in the province was 4,850.

There were 1,800 confirmed recovered cases, and 154 new cases of COVID-19 that have been reported.

Cases have been identified in all zones across the province: • 3,366 cases in the Calgary zone; • 685 cases in the South zone; • 486 cases in the Edmonton zone; • 202 cases in the North zone; • 84 cases in the Cen-

tral zone; and • 27 cases in zones yet to be confirmed.

Of these cases, there are currently 82 people in hospital, 21 of whom have been admitted to intensive care units (ICU).

There are 524 cases are suspected of being community acquired.

The total deaths are 80 – 50 in the Calgary zone; 14 in the North zone; 11 in the Edmonton zone; four in the South zone; and one in the Central zone.

To date, 483 cases have been confirmed at continuing care facilities, and 52

The Classifieds are the Cat’s Meow Area shoppers know the Classifieds are the pur-fect place to find a bargain. In the Classifieds, you can track down deals on everything from collectibles to cuddly kittens.

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residents at these facilities have died.

There have been 131,772 people tested for COVID19 and a total of 138,681 tests performed by the lab.

In the last 24 hours, 3,239 tests have been completed.

The number of confirmed and recovered cases among health-care workers is now available online. The vast majority of cases are believed to have acquired their infection outside of the work-

place.

Registry services available remotely To help limit the number of Albertans who need to visit registry agents in person, the Government of Alberta is temporarily allowing registry agents to provide corporate registry services, personal property registry services, and select motor vehicle services by phone, secure email, fax or mail.

To everyone in rural Alberta, thank you for all you do to keep your community spirit alive.

We are thankful for those in the transportation and food industry; to those who keep the power on, the energy flowing, and the utilities working around the clock; and to our farmers and ranchers, who continue to work hard with calving and preparing for seeding.

– Linda Humphreys, Interim Chair Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP)

Tofield Alliance Bardo Lutheran Church Because of COVID-19 our Church • Sunday School • Life Groups • Youth Group • Music & Worship • Senior Activities 780-662-2762 • 5907 - 49 Street

April A pril is is National National Dig D ig Safe Safe month month You’re You’re probably probably pretty pretty sure sure where where the underground underground utilities and pipelines pipelines are are on your your property. property.

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Together we will make it through this. May you, your family and your community stay healthy.

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Tofield and Area Church Directory Sunday Worship - 10:00 am

at least 20 seconds, avoiding touching your face, coughing or sneezing into your elbow or sleeve, and disposing of tissues appropriately.

Any individual exhibiting symptoms of COVID19, including cough, fever, runny nose, sore throat or shortness of breath, is eligible for testing.

Why Why tak take e the rrisk? isk?

662-4046

Pastor - Calvin Andringa

For a full list of services available through alternative delivery methods, visit alberta.ca/covid19.

The most important measure Albertans can take to prevent respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, is to practise good hygiene.

This includes cleaning your hands regularly for

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

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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.

Online services will take place and can Please listen online to our recorded 780-632-2078 be listened to on the phone. For login Service at 10:30 am Sundays on our OUR SERVICES HAVE BEEN CANCELLED website; www.tofieldchurch.com. info please call: 780-662-3471 or We are streamlining live liturgy services We will continue to pray for all our email: beaverpastoralcharge@gmail.com on Sundays @ 8:50 am on community as we remain strong and http://www.uocc-we.ca/ Rev. Adam Hall trust in our Heavenly Father.

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

Page 8 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Successful Snow Goose Festival that never happened

Hurry! ds 5 pm Sale en 3rd on May

Moush John Tofield Mercury

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This weekend would have been a big event – 2020 Beaverhill Snow Goose Festival – after a long time, but with the impending situation of COVID-19 it was cancelled.

However, this didn’t prevent the annual tradition of the birds, and birdwatchers were out and about witnessing the phenomenon.

“After a cliffhanger waiting for them, the snow geese arrived in the thousands; the weekend festival would have been a huge success. The festival that did not happen,” said Geoff Holroyd, Festival Chair and Chair of the Beaverhill Bird Observatory (BBO). “Large flocks of snow geese arrived in southern Alberta but were held there, first by late lying snow in central Alberta, then by

strong north winds.”

By Friday the winds switched and for much of the festival weekend the winds from the south helped geese storm north making up for lost time.

According to Holroyd, many flocks of 1,000 to 10,000 were reported by bird watchers with one flock of 20,000 just south of Holden.

“The flocks were definitely on the move. East of Beaverhill Lake the fields which had one flock of a 1,000 on Saturday, had two flocks of 10,000 on Sunday,” he said. “The flock south of Holden was photographed on Saturday but gone on Sunday. The bird-watcher scouts would have been busy finding geese for the planned bus tours. But the geese were there!”

Over the two days he saw about 75,000 Snow Geese, 1,500 Whitefronted Geese, 5,000 Canada Geese as well as

Tundra Swans, a wide variety of ducks, Blacknecked Stilts and the ever beautiful Avocets. He recorded 40 different species of birds over the two days.

“The geese should be passing over Beaver County for another two weeks, so watch for them during your exercise outings during this pandemic,” Holroyd suggested. “Along with geese, ducks and sandhill cranes are moving north.

Sparrows and warblers are not far behind. Tree Swallows arrived back in the last week taking up residence in the many nest boxes on fence posts scattered through the county. The first Purple Martin was reported in the county on April 25.”

A harbinger of spring, the Snow Goose flies north in huge flocks, covering fields like snow.

This species is a conserContinued on Page 14 20051DG0

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A Free Weekly Publication Serving All of Beaver County Wednesday, April 29, 2020, Volume 13, Issue 18

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Campground openings delayed to June 26 Patricia Harcourt Beaver County is delaying the opening of its campgrounds until June 26.

The decision is based on the need to reduce the risk of spreading the COVID19 virus as per the recommendations by Alberta Health Services.

"Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, many municipalities have already indicated temporary closure of campgrounds," said CAO Bob Beck, in his report to council April 15.

"Administration expects the province to also indicate temporary closure of provincial campgrounds, which would normally open May 1," he said.

"Administration recommends that, due to the high potential for exposure to the COVID 19 virus over the next 60 days, the campgrounds remain closed."

Beck said the decision could be reevaluated "over the next period with consideration to provincial policy and closures."

Both Black Nugget Lake Campground in the western part of the county, and Camp Lake Campground in the eastern part, ae being operated by contractors.

Beck pointed out that county staff were also involved in the maintenance and upkeep of the campgrounds including solid waste, sewage disposal and

propane. They also do inspections including health and safety and respond to complaints.

"Should council disagree with the recommendation and elect to have the campgrounds open on May 1, this would involve serious operational investment to address cleanliness and sanitation of the facilities on an ongoing basis," Beck warned.

"The incase in operational costs to achieve sanitation levels of the common facilities would not make the campgrounds viable in the short term," he added.

Beck noted that the campgrounds "usually have decreased occupancy during May and June, with maximum occupancy in July and August.

Therefore, the overall financial viability will not be negatively impacted by keeping the campgrounds closed in the short term."

"It's almost impossible to operate in a safe manner," he told council during a teleconference meeting.

Councillor Dale Pederson (Division 5) asked Beck how this would work with the contractors running the campgrounds but Beck said a contract matter could not be discussed in a public forum.

Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) said most private campgrounds are

looking for a way to open up on the May long weekend at the earliest. He asked if the standard of campers being 30 ft. apart in this pandemic is possible in the county campgrounds and Beck acknowledged that the parking stalls would meet the 30 ft "in most instances."

But they would have to be self-contained units on serviced sites with water, sewer and power.

Hrabec asked if council could consider opening on the May long weekend or June 1, as the campgrounds are "almost fully booked."

"The government isn't against camping," he said, noting "just follow the rules." Being able to go outside is part of the mental health issues around the COVID 19 problem, he added.

With "a lot of campgrounds" opening in that time, Hrabec said that, "in two weeks we will know more, if the province will tighten or loosen up," the rules. As someone in favour of opening June 1, Hrabec called this "prime time" when "usage goes up dramatically."

"I made the recommendation based on an abundance of caution regarding COVID 19," replied Beck.

In a question from Councillor Barry Bruce (Division 4) asking how many sites fit the provincial criteria for use in the campgrounds, Beck said: "Only a handful," citing four at Black Nugget

and none at Camp Lake.

To that, Pederson said he felt the end of June was a more realistic alternative, and gives time to do things like rope off the playgrounds and outdoor facilities.

Beck agreed that the COVID 19 restrictions mean a few extra days to tape off areas the public cannot access.

"Each camper would have to have their own facilities," he said.

Viking Councillor Kevin Smook (Division 1) also favoured opening the end of June, noting "there are so few sites that fit the criteria," in the county's campgrounds.

"If you can open earlier based on provincial rules go ahead, he added.

Smook's motion for council to approve the delay in opening the campgrounds due to COVID 19 to no sooner than June 26 was passed. Also included was that, if the province loosens its restrictions then council would reconsider the date at that time.

As well, the day use areas at both parks will remain closed as well as the fishing area at Black Nugget Lake Park.

For those who have already made reservations for either campground, the county is working on getting refunds back or doing rebookings.

The campground reservation system is taking new bookings starting with June 26 and moving forward.

County Council highlights from April 15 tele-meeting Beaver County Council held its regular council meeting on April 15 via teleconferencing.

The following are some of the highlights from that meeting: Administration Update on COVID 19 Pandemic The County Service Centre and Public Works office remain closed to the public. Staff are working in the office and can be contacted by phone at the County office at 780-663-3730, or by e-mail at administration@beaver.ab.ca.

Council Update on COVID 19 Pandemic Council provided an update on the following committees and how they have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic: • Beaver Municipal Services • Beaver Emergency Services

Commission • Beaver Foundation Alberta Health Services Council passed a motion to forward a letter to Melody Henriksen, Area Manager, Alberta Health Services and extend Council’s gratitude to all the staff at the Tofield and Viking Hospital for their invaluable time and hard work during the COVID 19 Pandemic.

2019 Property Tax Assessment Council reviewed the 2019 Property Tax Assessment Report.

2020 Municipal Budget Council discussed the development of the final 2020 municipal budget.

Council passed a motion directing administration prepare a draft budget for a collection rate of 75 per cent, borrowing for the P&H road construction project, and considering the possibili-

ty of pandemic impact.

Tax and Utility Account Deferrals Council direct administration to prepare an amendment to the Tax

Penalty Bylaw for the penalty rate to be reduced by 50 per cent for 2020 taxes.

See HIGHLIGHTS BCC3

BEAVER COUNTY SEED CLEANING CO-OP

IMPORTANT NOTICE! Due to the Coronavirus/COVID-19, we require customers to stay in their trucks. Do not haul to the plant if you have been out of the country in the last 4 weeks or if you are feeling unwell.

We need to follow these precautions or we can potentially be closed for the season!

Thank you for your cooperation!

Phone 780-688-3917 Holden, AB

2 - Beaver County Chronicle, April 29, 2020

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Beaver County Chronicle, April 29, 2020 - 3

County Highlights Continued from BCC1

Council will make no amendments to the Utility Bylaw for changes to the penalty date.

Impact of MGA Deadline Extensions In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the Provincial Government has approved some extensions to deadlines in the Municipal Government Act. Council discussed the extensions most relevant to Beaver County.

Beaver County Land Lease - R.o.W. NW Corners 36-46-11-W4 Council held a Public Hearing in regards to Beaver County land leases on February 19, 2020. After the Public Hearing, Council authorized the tender for re-lease of the right-of-way in the NW corner of NE 34-46-11-W4 to the previous tenant.

The renewal of the lease of the land was approved at the previous lease rate.

The tenant requested that the lease amount be reduced due to the economic times. The tenant requested a new lease price of $150 per year.

Currently the lease price is set at $250 per year.

Council put forth a motion to confirm the annual lease amount of $150 for the right-of-way in the NW corner of NE 34-46-11-W4 for a one-year term. The

motion was defeated.

A subsequent motion was passed confirming the annual lease amount of $250 for the right-of-way in the NW corner of NE 34-46-11-W4, and waiving the payment deadline to December 31, 2020.

Application for Property Tax Exemption The Sherwood Park Fish & Game Association (SPF&GA) has requested a property tax exemption for all of its vacant land as well as its clubhouse facilities and shooting ranges pursuant to the MGA and Community Organization Property Tax Exemption Regulation (COPTER).

To qualify for the exemption the organization must be established by the Societies Act and must be prohibited from distributing income or property to its shareholders or members. The activities of the organization must not be used in the operation of a professional sports franchise, and must actively encourage the general public to use the property without unreasonable restriction on the basis of race, culture, ethnic origin, religious belief, or ownership of property. The organization is allowed to charge only a small entrance or application fee and cannot impose unreasonable membership requirements.

Council deferred a decision on the matter and requested that the Sherwood Park Fish and Game Association be invited to a future Council meeting to make a presentation to Council to provide an overview on the activities and mandate of their club.

Services

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Public Notice

Gerry Footz REALTOR

Website: www.gerryfootz.com

Beaver County CALP

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

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

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

Please check the County’s website at www.beaver.ab.ca for access to on-line forms, information regarding methods of payment, etc. You may also reach staff at the Services Centre at 780-663-3730.

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

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

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

Would you like to learn to connect with friends and family using your own technology tools while social distancing?

We are here to help you learn how to connect with different social media platforms.

It‛s just a click away! ● ● ● ●

Google Hangouts Facebook Messenger Zoom WhatsApp

Call: 780-663-3730 Email: calp@beaver.ab.ca

4 - Beaver County Chronicle, April 29, 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

Notice of Development Permits

Campground Operations

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

On April 15th, 2020 Beaver County Council made the difficult decision to postpone Beaver County’s campground opening dates.

APPEAL DEADLINE: May 13, 2020 Application No. 020020-20-D0007 Applicant: Ducks Unlimited Canada Location: NW 25-50-18-W4 Development: Sign for Conservation Project – 1.22m x 2.44m APPEAL DEADLINE: May 13, 2020 Application No. 020020-20-D0006 Applicant: Dragan Uzelac Location: SW 30-51-19-W4 Development: Micro Cultivation Shop 62x80 sq. f APPEAL DEADLINE: May 13, 2020 Application No. 020020-20-D0005 Applicant: Suzanne Pelrine Location: NW 17-51-19-W4 Development: Home Occupation – Construction Company Office APPEAL DEADLINE: May 20, 2020 Application No. 020020-20-D0011 Applicant: Tarina Boucher Location: SW 12-51-20-W4 Development: Side Yard Variance (13ft) and Existing 312 sq. ft Deck APPEAL DEADLINE: May 20, 2020 Application No. 020020-20-D0012 Applicant: The Beaverhill Bird Observatory Society Location: NW 1-51-18-W4 Development: Replacement of Field Office with New Field Office (Lab/Education Centre) 1440 sq. Ft Any person wishing to appeal a decision may do so by serving written notice on the prescribed form (stating reasons for the appeal) and submitting the applicable fee of $200.00 to the Secretary of the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board at the following address. The notice of appeal must be submitted before 4:30 pm on the appeal deadline date shown above, or be postmarked by the appeal deadline date. The prescribed form is available at www.beaver.ab.ca or at the County office.

Further information regarding the above decision(s) may be obtained from the County Office, Ryley, Alberta.

SECRETARY Subdivision and Development Appeal Board Beaver County Box 140 Ryley, Alberta T0B 4A0 (780) 663-3730 Due to COVID-19 all appeal hearings will be held electronically until further notice.

Due to COVID-19, the campground opening dates for Black Nugget Lake Campground and Camp Lake Campground have been pushed back to June 26, 2020, unless this date can change to be sooner based on recommendations from the Province of Alberta and Alberta Health Services.

Additionally, the day-use areas at both parks will remain closed as well as the fishing area at Black Nugget Lake Park will remain closed.

The health and safety of our residents, visitors, staff, and contractors is our top priority. These measures are in line with Provincial recommendations to practice physical distancing.

Campground Reservations Our campground reservation system is now taking reservations for June 26, 2020 onward. For those who have already made reservations, we are working on processing refunds or rebookings.

We apologize to our residents and visitors for this inconvenience, which we realize is significant and unprecedented.

For further information, please contact the County Office at 780-663-3730 or email at administration@beaver.ab.ca.

2020 Strychnine Sales Due to the current circumstances with COVID-19, strychnine sales will be done by appointment only, beginning April 21, 2020.

This can be arranged by calling 780-663-3730 and speaking with the Agriculture Department.

Beaver County will be selling 2% Liquid Strychnine Concentrate to farmers who are experiencing severe Richardson Ground Squirrel infestations in annual crops, forage crops, rangeland and pastures. **PRICE** $10.50 per 250 ml vial or $250.00 per case • MAXIMUM of two (2) cases may be purchased based on infestation level.

• Legal land locations will be required for ALL areas intended for application.

• Persons whose farming status is unknown to the County will be required to produce documentation that shows involvement in an active farming operation.

Payment will ONLY be accepted by check or prearranged credit card payment.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020 - Page 9

Sodbuster

Alberta Transportation Highway 834 Construction

Highway 834 bypass around the Town of Tofield

Continued from Page 2 events will not go unnoticed this year,” Barrecloth added. “We have been very fortunate to be able to have these great sponsors, volunteers and organizations old and new to help us bring these events to our community, and we thank each one of them. Events like these are enjoyed by the local community, surrounding areas and families from outside the community as to see what our community has to offer.”

For Rick Neufeld, Chair and one of the main organizers of the event, it’s come as a huge disappointment.

“It is very disappointing for myself as Chair and the whole committee that we won’t be hosting the Rodeo this year,” he said.

It would have been the 10th consecutive year for the Bull Bash, which was also cancelled, and the 38th consecutive year for the Rodeo.

Keeping the economic climate in mind, Neufeld said, “It just isn’t fair for us to ask our sponsors for money in these economic times when some have not been working and have had their business closed; we cannot put on these events without sponsorships.

“It will be a hard hit to the Ag Society as these are our two major fundraisers for the year. It is very disappointing for this year but we will be back next year bigger and better!”

The Ag Society is a non-profit organization, which fundraises through many different events throughout the year to fund and operate the Tofield Arena and rodeo grounds.

“Each one of these events help to support and fund the operation of these assets to ensure that we bring opportunity for all generations to enjoy,” Barrecloth explained. “The Directors of the Tofield Agricultural Society are concerned with the financial position this puts the society into but realize we are not alone and with the strength and support of all, we will get back to a normal operation.”

He further added that they are closely monitoring the situation and what’s best for the community to ensure the safety and health of all.

“We are in unprecedented times and we will need to pull together to get through this pandemic and the Agricultural Society and its members are looking forward to being fully operation again. Until then, please stay safe and healthy!”

Alberta Transportation Highway 834 Construction

For up to date road information, call 5-1-1 toll free, visit 511.alberta.ca or follow @511Alberta ©2018 Government of Alberta | Published: Spring 2020|

Page 10 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020 - Page 11

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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 ___________________ WANTED WANTED

18/19 __________________ Hay for sale.

ALF/TM/BR/CW mix.

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

Phone late evenings 780-942-4107 LL11/23p __________________ SEEDFOR FOR SALE SEED SALE Certified seed for sale Barley: Amisk. Oats: AC Morgan, O R E 3 5 4 2 M , Haymaker.

Brett Young: all canola & forage varieties.

Haralie Seed Farms 780-662-2617 or 780-405-8089. Tofield Alta.

TM09tfn __________________ LIVESTOCK LIVESTOCK Yearling Red Angus Bulls for sale.

Easy calving, low birth weights.

Lots of bulls to choose from.

Call 780-385-0406 18/20p __________________ Red and Black Angus bulls for sale. Large selection, easy calving, very quiet, tested & guaranteed. $2800 Sedgewick, AB. Call Davidson Angus 780-888-7585 LL15/18p __________________ Purebred yearling and 2 yr old Red & Black Angus bulls for sale.

Call 780-986-9088 14/21p

11/23c

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

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

Over 25 years of experience.

References available upon request.

Call: 780-919-9340 TM12/19p __________________ 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. __________________ 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 tfnc

REMEMBER TO WASH YOUR HANDS!

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

We customize it.

Call your local paper with your print order today!

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

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

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

Also do ceiling texture.

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

Willing to work with existing building or taping crew.

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

WANTED - Pasture Land to rent for the 2020 season. 1/4 or less.

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

18/19p

CLASSIFIEDS DEADLINE IS MONDAY AT 5 P.M.

The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020 - Page 13

Remember When

TOFIELD SODBUSTER RODEO: Curtis Neufeld of Tofield rides his bull Guber Jr. during the Bull Riding event at the Tofield Sodbuster Rodeo on Saturday, May 31.

This image appeared in The Tofield Mercury dated June 10, 2008. Photo by Nicole Giasson.

Blanket Alberta Ads take approximately 10 days to process __________________________ AUCTIONS AUCTIONS Multi Property Online Auction Sale May 12th, 2020, 2:00pm.

Hansenauctions.ca 1-888-6527212 Hansen Land Brokers Inc. Development land, Commercial land, Agricultural land. __________________________ BUILDING BUILDING SUPPLIES SUPPLIES BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less).

Reach 97 weekly newspapers.

Call NOW for details. 1-800282-6903 Ext 200; www.awna.com. __________________________ COMINGEVENTS EVENT COMING FIREARMS WANTED FOR JUNE 13th, 2020 LIVE & ONLINE AUCTION: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria.

Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual Items. Contact Paul, Switzer's Auction: Toll-Free 1-800-6942 6 0 9 , sales@switzersauction.com or www.switzersauction.com.

Put your ad in 120 Alberta newspapers starting at just

$269

vg________________________ EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES INTERESTED IN THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER business? Alberta's weekly newspapers are looking for people like you. Post your resume online.

FREE. Visit http://awna.com/resumes_add. __________________________ ONLY EXPERIENCED ASPHALT PAVING Personnel required for in-Edmonton work.

Call 780-466-7763. __________________________ FEEDAND AND SEED FEED SEED EARLY VARIETIES. Want to be finished combining in August? Go Early HRS Wheat, Busby & Sundre Barley, AAC Peace River Field Peas (earliest yellow pea). Early One Polish Canola (one month earlier); mastinseeds.com. 403-556-2609. __________________________ FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-9219942. __________________________ HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. "On Farm Pickup" Westca n Feed & Grain, 1-877-2505252.

COLOUR THIS PICTURE

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. __________________________ FEEDAND AND SEED FEED SEED

__________________________ REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE

CERTIFIED SEED. Wheat Go Early, Pintail, AAC Penhold. Oats - AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, SO1 Super Oat. Barley Busby, Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. Very Early Yellow Pea. Forage Peas. Polish Canola.

Spring Triticale. mastinseeds.com. 403-556-2609. __________________________ FOR SALE SALE FOR

SASKATCHEWAN FARMLAND ON BAKKEN OILFIELD. Under $1000 an acre. Paying 5% return with long term lease. For more information, contact Doug at 306716-2671. __________________________

BEAUTIFUL SPRUCE TREES 5' average. Only $35. Quality guaranteed. Machine planting only $10. Includes: Wurzel Dip root enzyme and bark mulch application. Minimum order 20.

Delivery charge/order: $125 $140. Crystal Springs. 403-8200961. __________________________ JOHN DEERE 310D Tractor Loader Backhoe. 4-wheel drive.

Extenda hoe. First owner. $28,000. Call 780-446-1051. __________________________ HEALTH HEALTH HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30, 000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844453-5372.

SUDOKU

SERVICES SERVICES CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities?

Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver.

Record purge. File destruction.

Free consultation.

1 - 8 0 0 - 3 4 7 - 2 5 4 0 . www.accesslegalmjf.com. __________________________ WEDDING VENUE. Great Value $3000 full package. Gated country mansion. 7 bedrooms. 1 hour NE of Calgary: carbonvalleyranch.com. __________________________ REQUIRE PRESS RELEASE SERVICE? Let us help you with that!

During this unprecedented time, we are assisting organizations, businesses and the public in getting their message out about changing operations, cancellations, etc. Though we cannot guarantee publication, AWNA will get this information into the right hands for ONLY $60 plus GST. Email: classifieds@awna.com for details.

ANSWERS

Page 14 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Snow geese arrived in the thousands Continued from Page 8 vation success story that has become too successful.

According to Holroyd, in the early 1900s Snow Geese were in decline, over-harvested like many

large birds in North America. The Migratory Bird Convention of 1917 between Canada and the

USA brought regulations to the hunting harvest. As agriculture expanded particularly in the southern

states, Snow Geese prospered by feeding on the spilled grain in harvested fields. Then rice was intro-

Snow geese take advantage of the weekend winds to fly in big flocks, just south of Ryley. SUBMITTED PHOTO/GEOFF HOLROYD (BEAVERHILL BIRD OBSERVATORY)

duced to Gulf of Mexico states’ agriculture and the geese numbers no increase at five per cent per year.

With over five million Snow Geese, this success story is now threatened by the geese themselves as they over-eat the low plants and roots in the arctic breeding grounds causing long-term damage to the tundra.

“The over-exploitation of the food plants has resulted in damage and loss of important plants in these regions with short growing seasons,” Holroyd explained. “The reduction in food availability has resulted in smaller geese. Goslings’ weight has declined over 16 per cent and bones are two to four per cent shorter. Consequently the adult geese that return to breed are now weigh less and are smaller; have fewer eggs and fewer young each year. This change will be compounded with the effects of climate change.”

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The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020 - Page 15

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Page 16 - The Tofield Mercury, Wednesday, April 29, 2020

ADVERTISE AD CREDITS Like many, your business or municipal office may have been affected with closures or reduced hours. But do all of your customers know? Reach a wider audience than your social media about changes to your business, services, or accessibility. Let customers know if you can still serve them. Take advantage of your LOCAL MEDIA continuing to publish during this crisis so that you can KEEP THE PUBLIC INFORMED.

RE-ORDER PRINTING

Lockdown isn’t how we all envisoned our 2020 going, but it is a good chance to clean and re-stock on supplies.

RE-ORDER YOUR PRINTING NEEDS WITH US! Even if someone else did your last batch, we would love to receive your business! Just email us what you want your order to look like and we’ll get it made! Once finished, we’ll arrange a safe and sanitary pick-up or drop-off that works for you. Good prices & high quality work.

We do business cards, brochures, receipt books, invoices, statements, envelopes, labels, flyers, posters, bookmarks, catalogues, gift certificates, menus, invitiations, coupons, and much more!

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Have nothing to advertise but still want to support us?

BUY AD CREDITS NOW, SAVE LATER! Like a gift card, Ad Credits allow you to purchase a monetary amount of our services to be used at any time you’d like. Unlike gift cards, you get MORE VALUE for your money with Ad Credits. For every $25 spent, get an additional $5 towards future advertising!

Email us if you’d like to know more or buy your own!

We can invoice you now and you can mail a cheque at your leisure, or you can pay instantly with a Visa or Mastercard securely over the phone or email. You will be emailed an Ad Credit Certificate to be used anytime.

Coming soon to our website, you’ll be able to buy ad credits anytime for your convenience! (please allow for a 24-48 hour delay in receiving your Ad Credit Certificate as it has to be generated by a human. Your credits will be immediately recorded upon purchase.)

SUBSCRIBE Subscribe to our paper or Renew your Subscription anytime online at tofieldmerc.com, mail us a cheque, or call or email us to process payment securely!

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Become an e-subscriber. Head over to our website to sign up for our all-new ‘ISSUU’ e-subscription service.

Access your paper anytime online, and also get each new edition of our Flagstaff & Viking papers at no extra cost!

For many tradesmen, construction companies, farmers, auctioneers, ag dealers, vehicle dealers, and other essential services, THE SHOW MUST GO ON. In order to survive, many must continue to work and help their customers, even if in a different way or under new precautions. Let customers know you’re still open for business. Advertise your Card in the Business Directory. Only $100 per month, billed monthly!

The Tofield Mercury

ADSMERCURY@GMAIL.COM 780-662-4046