Parents urged to protect privacy of kids when making online ‘back to school’ posts
Leslie Cholowsky Staff Reporter
Alberta’s RCMP would like to remind parents to protect their children’s privacy online during this upcoming back-to-school season.
“As students head back to the classroom, the RCMP is encouraging parents and guardians to be cautious about what they share online, especially when posting those much-anticipated first-day-ofschool photos.”
In recent years, police say photos that include signs with fun facts about the student, including their full names, ages, grade, and schools might be well intentioned, but the personal details they contain can put children at risk.
“Information shared online can be used by strangers to identify a child, learn their routines, or build a false sense of familiarity. Someone could use these details to approach a youth and pretend to be a family friend or trusted adult, when this is not the case.”
To help keep kids safe, the Killam / Forestburg RCMP encourages parents and guardians to consider these online safety tips:
•Leave out identifying details. Avoid including the
name of your child’s school, home address, or other specific personal information in photos.
•Be mindful of locations. Take pictures in places that do not reveal your home, neighbourhood, or other easily identifiable spots.
•Limit what you share. If you want to include a sign, keep it generic with wording like “First Day of School” rather than listing detailed personal facts.
•Review privacy settings. Ensure your social media accounts are set to the highest privacy level before posting.
•Have ongoing safety talks. Speak with your children about online safety and “stranger danger,” both in-person and online. Establish a family “safe word” and identify trusted adults they can turn to. Tips for children:
•Never share personal information online, such as your last name, address, school name, or other identifying details.
•Always have a parent or guardian review photos or videos before you post them.
•If something online makes you uncomfortable or feels unsafe, tell a parent or trusted adult immediately.
For more safety tips follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and on X @RCMPAlberta.
Municipal candidate orientations to be held across county
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
For those who may be interested in becoming a councillor of a town, village, or the county, municipal candidate governance orientation workshops will be held in Viking, Ryley, and Tofield next week, Sept. 2 to 4. The municipal elections will take place on Monday, October 20.
The workshop will cover topics such as role clarity for council and administration, overview of key legislation, bylaw, budgets, and strategic plans, “common landmines,” what to expect in the first year as a councillor, as well as ethical decision-making and public trust.
The workshops will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with the first being held at the Viking Senior Citizens Club on Tuesday, Sept. 2, the second at the Ryley Community Centre on Wednesday, Sept. 3, and the last one in Tofield on Thursday, Sept. 4 at the Community Hall.
The Town of Tofield contracted Strategic Steps Inc. to host these workshops, and invited the other municipalities, which include the Town of Viking, Village of Holden, Village of Ryley, and Beaver County, to partner with them and share in the cost of bringing Strategic Steps out.
“The political landscape is one that is often unknown, and truly one that may be misunderstood by those looking to participate in the electoral process.
Feedback from throughout the province, not just locally, is that if there was an information session in advance to provide an overview of expectations, roles, responsibilities and background on governance, this might help to increase willingness of participants,” a Request for Decision presented to Tofield Council in October last year said.
“Strategic Steps has provided this type of orientation session in multiple communities across Canada, with great success. Further, this is not something that has been provided to the community in the past.
“Therefore, it may garner a greater interest from the public in Municipal Government. As we are aware, it is required to have orientation and training after becoming elected, this may help to further educate those looking to run for local office.”
“Our Candidate Workshops are designed to equip potential candidates with all the essential information they need to run for election, offering a clear understanding of local government and what it means to serve as an elected official,” Melanie Samson, Strategic Steps Business Development Lead wrote in an email to Tofield Chief Administrative Officer Jeff Edwards in October 2024.
Holden Museum parking-only signs installed
Kari Janzen Staff Reporter
In June, Holden Council approved Holden Historical Society’s request for the installation of two museum parking only signs in front of the museum and the former Holden United Church, to make it easier for visitors to get to the museum during open hours.
Chief Administrative Officer Rosemary Offrey said that it is not as though the museum caretakers do not want residents to park on the street at all, just not be-
tween 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily.
“Local residents are parking right in front of the museum area, and it's making it difficult for visitors to park there. And, of course, they don't mind if people park there in the evening, just not in the daytime,” Offrey said.
The museum’s current open hours are Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. in July and August, but are open by appointment throughout the year.
“The signs are our first attempt to try to make
sure that parking in front of the museum is available during the day,”
Holden Historical Society president Dave Maruszeczka said.
“The problem I found was, and maybe more me than anybody else, is that I would go there and there's been, on occasion, two cars parked in front of the museum so I can't park out front.
“I had to park down a ways and it got to be quite consistent.”
The cost of the sign and the installation was covered by the Historical Society.
New twist to municipal elections - Voters must register in advance by September 15
Patricia Harcourt Editor
Municipal elections won’t be held until October 20, but many people wanting to vote are unaware of a new twist in that process.
Those wishing to vote must now register before the looming deadline of Sept. 15. If they fail to register, a person can still vote but will need to bring along personal ID and fill out paperwork at the polls.
This is a new rule established by the provincial government, and the deadline may catch out some people coming off the summer holidays and dealing with going back to work or getting kids ready for school.
In fact, there are just 19 days as of Aug. 27 to register if you want to vote in the municipal elections in Viking, or any other municipality in the province.
Changes made by the province last fall under Bill 54, the Election Statutes Amendment Act, now mandate that persons are to be on a voter registration list in order to vote.
This new legislation now puts municipal-level elections on a par with rules for provincial and federal elections.
As of May last year, the new legislation requires voter registration information to be shared with municipalities for municipal elections.
Alberta municipalities such as Viking are now responsible for creating a Permanent Elector Register from this list sent to them by Elections Alberta.
The Town of Viking, along with all municipalities in the province, must then compose a List of Electors to be used in mu-
nicipal elections.
The Town of Viking considers this a serious enough matter that it has placed ads in the local newspaper and posted a warning about it on their website.
The announcement states: “The provincial government has changed requirements for registering to vote in municipal elections.
“Electors must now be registered on the Permanent Electors Register.”
Town administration is encouraging persons wanting to get more information to contact the town office.
Voters have to ensure their voter registration information given to the municipality is up-to-date and accurate to use in their local Permanent
Elector Register.
The list of electors contains only a portion of the information stored in the original register, including a person’s name, address and telephone number, if provided.
But apart from electors who wish to see their information for validation
purposes, access to the list is also given to registered political parties, candidates, and members of the Legislative Assembly. As for Elections Alberta, it states that a person is “ready to vote” if their information is up-todate. If not up-to-date, a Continued on Page 6
SEPTEMBER 2 | 4:30-7:00PM
JOIN US IN
KARI JANZEN PHOTO
Signs were recently installed in front of the Holden Museum, limiting parking for village residents to evenings only.
Welcome to the 2025-26 school year!
Battle River School Division has a full range of schools, choices and opportunities to help ensure your family’s Kindergarten to Grade 12 learning needs are met. With a focus on learning success, quality learning environments, and well-being, as well as a full roster of supports that can be accessed as needed, we strive for Every Student, Every Day, a Success.
The first day of school for students is Tuesday, September 2.
Camrose Women's Shelter
K-12
Daysland Wes Wilson Jennifer Thomas Forestburg K-12 Forestburg Calvin Anhorn Janna Freadrich Hay Lakes 1-12 Hay Lakes Lloyd MacKenzie Karla Koleba Jack Stuart
PreK-5 Camrose Todd Sieben Erica Easton Killam Public
Killam
Sifton (École)
PreK-5 Camrose Kathleen McLennan Terry Kennedy Sparling
PreK-5 Camrose Jonathan Skinner Denise Read
Tofield 5-12 Tofield Gordon Thompson Karen Gartner Clayton Roe Viking K-12 Viking Tracy Doerksen
BRSD Transportation Update for 2025-26
Battle River School Division (BRSD) is pleased to share that the expanded distance eligibility for student transportation will continue for the 2025-26 school year. While there are not many changes to transportation, families are reminded of a few important details:
• Route Design: Bus routes are created using a “first-on, first-off” pattern to help ensure equitable ride times for all students.
• Bus Passes: All students must carry and scan their bus pass when entering and exiting the bus.
• Registration: Students in the City of Camrose must register for transportation each year. Rural students only need to register if their school has changed or if their home address has changed.
We look forward to continuing to provide safe and reliable transportation for all BRSD students.
(Schools/BRSD Offices Closed) 2 FIRST DAY FOR STUDENTS 26 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION (TBD) (No School for Students) 30 TRUTH & RECONCILIATION (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed) OCTOBER 13
DAY IN LIEU OF PARENT/TEACHER INTERVIEWS (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION(TBD) (No School for Students) 19 LAST DAY OF CLASSES
CHRISTMAS BREAK BEGINS (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
JANUARY
5 SCHOOL RESUMES
27 LAST DAY OF SEMESTER 1 28 SEMESTER 2 BEGINS
30 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION (TBD) (No School for Students)
FEBRUARY
12&13 TEACHERS' CONVENTION (Schools Closed) 16 FAMILY DAY (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
27 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION(TBD) (No School for Students)
MARCH
27 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION (TBD) (No School for Students)
30 SPRING BREAK BEGINS (Schools Closed)
APRIL
3 GOOD FRIDAY (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed) 6 EASTER MONDAY (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed) 7 SCHOOL RESUMES
MAY 1 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION (TBD) (No School for Students)
15 DAY IN LIEU OF PARENT/TEACHER INTERVIEWS (Schools Closed)
18 VICTORIA DAY (Schools/BRSD Offices Closed)
JUNE
5 STAFF MEETING/DIVISION PD/COLLABORATION
Really. Was anyone surprised?
Pierre Poilievre romped to a convincing win in the Battle River-Crowfoot by-election last week.
According to the final results on the Elections Canada website, Poilievre had a convincing 40,548 votes out of the 50,434 votes cast for a whopping 80.4 per cent of the vote.
Independent candidate Bonnie Critchley finished second with 5,013 votes for 9.9 per cent while Liberal Darcy Spady finished third with 2,174 votes for 4.3 per cent of the vote.
The New Democrat candidate Katherine Swampy took 1,050 votes for 2.1 per cent, and the United Party of Canada, a far right fringe outfit, garnered 733 votes for Grant Abraham or 1.5 per cent of the vote.
After that, none of the remaining 209 candidates received more than one per cent of the vote.
In fact 75 of the candidates received zero votes, 73 received one vote, 28 got two votes, 11 got three, seven got four votes, seven got five votes, four got six votes, three got seven votes, one got nine as well as one with 10 votes, and then the number crept slightly higher up to the United Party of Canada candidate.
Most of these people were part of the long ballot group whose purpose in stacking so many candidates on the ballots was to draw attention to the need for voting reform. They want to use a ranked voting system rather than the first past the post format we currently use.
But because of their shenanigans in Battle River-Crowfoot, Elections Canada for the first time in its history used a write in vote format where voters could write in their preferred candidate’s name.
If that hadn’t been done, the ballot would have been several page long and election workers would probably still be counting through each ballot.
Now, most of these so called candidates didn’t live in the riding and to be fair neither doe Poilievre.
But Poilievre is from Alberta. He was raised in Calgary and went to Ottawa after he went to work in Ottawa, first as an intern and later as a politician. But he knows Alberta.
vikingreview@gmail.com
OPINION
JOHN’S RANT
Independent Bonnie Critchley based her campaign strategy on people agreeing Poilievre wouldn’t represent the riding because he didn’t live in it.
Obviously that didn’t wash, because Poilievre had the national campaign network behind his campaign and he also was very visible, out and about at the many small town events that were occurring during the campaign period.
Now Tyee scribbler David Climenhaga said in a post election item that Poilievre “had been resoundingly re-elected at the same moment his boss was being humiliated by Liberal Bruce Fanjoy in his Ottawa-area Carleton riding.”
“Well, that’s what happens when you represent voters who live near Ottawa and you take coffee and doughnuts to the insurrectionists occupying the capital city.”
Well I’m not sure what “insurrectionists” Climenhaga is referring to … I think he means member of the Freedom Convoy who descended on Ottawa to protest mandatory COVID vaccines and government overreach during the pandemic.
I guess he feels leftist radicals and indeginous groups who block railways and pipeline developments, defying court injunctions, are the only ones allowed to protest in Canada.
Poilievre openly admitted he felt he lost his Ottawa riding because of his stance against maintaining the status quo on far too many civil servants hired under the Trudeau regime.
And Mr, Fanjoy defeated Poilievre 43,846 votes to 39,333 votes, not what I would call a “humiliating defeat.”
Other pundits will now say Poilivre will ride into the sunset never to step foot in Battle River Crowfoot again.
I would beg to differ.
Stephan Harper was the Prime Minister of Canada representing a Calgary riding during his time in Ottawa.
He didn’t abandon his riding.
When parliament is in session probably all Alberta politicians at the Federal level maintain residences in Ottawa since that is where they work.
On the Liberal side of the equation both Prime Minister Mark Carney and cabinet
minister Chrystia Freeland claim to be Albertans in their more lucid moments, but neither want to represent or run in a riding in their home province. Yet little is said about their choice in the media.
As the new MP for Battle River Crowfoot, Poilievre has set up two constituency offices.
As the leader of the federal Conservatives, when there are issues affecting Battle River-Crowfoot, let’s say like canola tariffs, he will have the strongest voice in his caucus to develop policy on that issue. More so than as a backbencher.
No I expect Poilivre, who has admitted
some errors in the April federal election campaign, will change his style somewhat to take on the Liberals when parliament reconvenes next month.
Carney is facing a challenge in dealing with tariffs from both the U.S. and China. He wants to create some high priority developments to get Canada’s economic engine revving again.
Many of those items affect Albertans and I expect Poilivre will be certain to hold the Liberal leader’s feet on the fire to move them forward in a way that not only benefits Alberta, but all of Canada.
JOHN MATHER
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During the early morning hours of Aug. 18, police were dispatched to a 911 static line that originated from a rural property west of Bruce. Police were unable to contact the caller but noted it appears to be an ongoing issue with the phone line.
That afternoon while on patrol, a member observed a male on a motorcycle in his driveway in Viking. The motorcycle departed the area and headed north of Viking on Highway 36.
The male driver was known to police and also known to be prohibited
Evelyn Larson celebrated her birthday with fam-
from driving a motor vehicle.
Police proceeded to the highway and attempted a traffic stop on the motorcycle which had made a U-turn and was now southbound on Highway 36. The vehicle fled from police at a high rate of speed. A pursuit was not initiated due to the risk to public safety.
Police observed the motorcycle turn back into Viking, so they went to the residence of the alleged driver. Ronald Edward Stewart was arrested on site and has been charged with Sec. 320.18 CC-Operation of
ily and friends last week. Shanon and Michelle Archibald of Ponoka hosted over 50 members of the Archibald family for a reunion earlier this month.
Doug and Helen Coubrough are very pleased to announce the arrival of their twin great-granddaughters, Bella Joan and Rossi
Motor Vehicle while Prohibited and Sec. 320.17 CC-Flight from Police with No Pursuit Involved. He will be appearing in Vegreville Provincial Court in October to answer to the charges.
That evening, police received a complaint of two speeding trucks in a residential area in Viking. One of the vehicles involved was located parked on the street nearby. The owner of the truck was spoken to and warned by police regarding his speed. The other truck involved was not located.
Marie, born to Delanee and David Daviau at the Grey Nuns Hospital on August 14. Congratulations to all! The Irma School office opened on Monday, August 25 as teachers and students get ready for a new school year.
On Aug. 19, police were advised of property found at a rural location west of Bruce. Police attended and located a pile of stripped copper wire and various other items. Police were unable to determine who had left the property behind and it was disposed of.
That night, police received a complaint of people trespassing at a vacant property in Viking. Police attended but did not locate anyone at the property.
On Aug. 20, police received a report of found property. The
complainant advised he had located a homemade trailer with numerous steel panels on it parked in his field. Police have not been able to identify the owner of this trailer.
On Aug. 21, police received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle driving slowly down a back alley in Viking. Police located the vehicle in question and spoke with the driver who advised he was passing time while waiting for his wife who was receiving treatment at the Viking Health Centre. The complainant was updated.
On Aug. 22, police
were called to a collision south of Kinsella involving a motorhome and a cow. Fortunately, no occupants of the motorhome were injured. A collision report was completed.
On Aug. 23, police received a report of six speeding sports cars eastbound on Highway 14. The caller was unable to provide any licence plate information. Police were not in a position to intercept the cars in question and the complainant was updated. That night, police received a 911 call of a
Continued on Page 12
Many farmers are silaging or combining peas as harvest season gets underway. The weather for the upcoming week is for very warm conditions with no moisture.
Good luck to Colten Lawson who is competing in the U15 junior golf
provincials in Chestermere this week. Get well wishes go out to
a fall.
Bob Barss who suffered painful injuries in
By Marjorie Lawson
Beaverhill Players monthly music jam well attended
Voters Registration
Continued from Page 2
person will have to re-register.
And if a person has never registered, this is an opportuninty to do so as well.
The voting age is 18, but future voters aged 16 or 17, may register in advance and would be added to the permanent Register of Electors automatically when they turn 18.
“Registering early will save voters time at the polls and ensure they receive timely updates about where and how to vote,” said Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Doug Lefsrud.
“And it should take less than five minutes to register or update your voter information.”
Those who don’t register in advance can still vote in person on Election Day but will need to complete additional registration paperwork at the polling station and re-
quire certain kinds of identification such as a driver’s license or Identification Card to be brought with them.
This will be considered one piece of ID and must have on it a person’s full legal name and current physical address. This will add to the wait time to vote but does not prevent it.
Eligible voters can register or confirm their status online at https://www.voterlink.ab .ca/ or calling 780-4277191.
To register a person must be 18 years of age or older, a Canadian citizen and a resident of Viking on Election Day. A piece of governmentissued identification with name and residential address is required to register and to vote.
Reasons given for early registration include providing a more efficient, faster voting process and accurate information for voting.
Those who register in advance also have access to election updates, such as polling station
The Beaverhill Players' monthly music jam at the Holden Community Hall held on Saturday, Aug. 16 was well attended, with about 20 people who were there to play and enjoy the music.
locations and voting dates.
Serving all the farms, ranches, acreages and towns in Beaver County Bruce,
The Beaver County Chronicle
Kari Janzen
A blue-green algae advisory was issued for Black Nugget Lake in Beaver County on Monday, August 25 by Alberta Health Services (AHS), advising visitors to take precaution entering the body of water.
“Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) has been identified in the waters of Black Nugget Lake. Visitors to this lake are advised to avoid all contact with cyanobacterial blooms.
“If contact occurs, wash with tap water as soon as possible. Do not swim or wade or allow your pets to swim or wade in any areas where cyanobacteria is visible,” the advisory says.
AHS also recommends limiting
consumption of whole fish and fish trimmings from the lake, as fish may store toxins in their liver, but says that people are able to safely consume fish fillets.
Boiling water containing bluegreen algae does not make it safe to drink, and AHS recommends providing a different water source for pets and animals while the advisory is in effect.
“As always, visitors and residents are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any recreational body of water, including Black Nugget Lake, at any time.
“Boiling of this water will not remove the toxins produced by cyanobacteria,” the release says.
Blue-green algae occurs naturally and, when weather conditions are calm, often become visible.
“Appearing like scum, grass clippings, fuzz, or globs on the surface of water, cyanobacteria can be bluegreen, greenish-brown, brown and/or pinkish-red, and often smell musty or grassy. Weather and wind conditions can cause algae blooms to move from one location in the lake to another. As such, this advisory will remain in effect for Black Nugget Lake until further notice,” AHS says.
“(However,) please note waters of Black Nugget Lake in which the cyanobacterial bloom is NOT visible can still be used for recreational purposes, even while this Health Advisory is in place,” says AHS.
Black Nugget Lake under blue-green algae advisory
Symptoms for those who come into contact with or consume blue-green algae include skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea and vomiting and/or diarrhea.
“Symptoms usually appear within one to three hours and resolve in one to two days. Symptoms in children are often more pronounced; however, all humans are at risk of these symptoms. Exposure to the bacteria may be fatal to pets.
“If you suspect a problem related to cyanobacteria or if you require further information on health concerns and cyanobacteria, please call Health Link at 811. Additional information is also available online, at www.ahs.ca/bga,” the release says.
New procedures for barking and vicious dogs after animal services action plan approved
Patricia Harcourt
Beaver County Council has approved the action plan of the animal control services bylaw for “immediate implementation.”
Deborah Juch, General Manager of Community and Protective Services, outlined its parameters, specifically referencing issues around barking dogs and dog attacks as part of the new plan.
“A visual of the county’s revamped animal control webpage incorporating parts of the action plan will be demonstrated for council,” said Juch, at the August 20 regular meeting.
For instance, under the issue of “responsible dog ownership,” public communication will include an animal control brochure, webpage with new expandable information tabs, and print and social media ads promoting responsible dog ownership, the new bylaw, and animal welfare.
For dog attacks, protocols would be established with dispatch services as to when to contact the RCMP for afterhours dog attacks, or to track dogs declared vicious.
Dog attacks are prioritized over other matters, “whether on people, other dogs or livestock,” said Juch.
The county’s community police officers would “apply all the vicious dog provisions in the bylaw in all cases.”
And landlords are also being involved in this plan, which states: “When needed, landlords are made responsible for allowing vicious dogs to remain on their property.”
Another enforcement procedure in the plan is to develop a voluntary surrender process “to facilitate the destruction of dogs who have attacked and injured people or animals.”
This kind of procedure would “close cases sooner and more satisfactorily; reduce public safety risk and future calls for service, and protracted legal
action,” stated the action plan under the category of dog attacks.
The plan also deals with dog barking, and enforcement procedures would start with community peace officers contacting complainants to initiate evidence gathering of the barking dog being complained about.
The CPOs would also make early contact with dog owners “to advise of the complaint and investigation, bylaw requirements and consequences; and, to offer tactics to minimize barking.
In terms of communicating to the public the plan would develop “barking” information tags with a description of “how excessive barking is determined and include advice to owners on how to minimize their dog’s barking.”
There would also be a “how to report” segment and a link to a downloadable “barking log” for complainants to gather evidence.
After Juch reviewed the updates in the action plan Councillor Lionel Williams (Division 2) said the plan was “timely.”
Councillor Dale Pederson (Division 5) made a motion for council to adopt the action plan for animal control services, and the motion passed 5-0.
Deputy Reeve Gene Hrabec (Division 3) referred to the fact the kennel services used by the county are not within the county’s borders. “We use an out of county kennel,” he said. Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Kayleena Spiess replied that the county had just signed a new contract with the kennel in question.
But administration is doing an internal review, she added. “If we get additional information we will bring it back.”
Hrabec said the matter didn’t need to be settled then but did want it brought back for further consideration.
Holden, Kinsella Ryley, Tofield, Viking
Hubert & Margaret Graham
IMPORTANTDATES
August27&28(asneeded)
9:30AM-4:00PM-RegularCouncil(Budget)Meeting September3
9:30AM-4:00PM-GovernanceandPrioritiesCommitteeMeeting
ANDIDATE ORIENTATION CANDIDATEORIENTATION
ThinkingaboutrunningforCouncil?Joinusfora Pre-ElectionOrientation designedforanyoneconsideringaruninthe2025MunicipalElection.Learn whatitreallymeanstoserveyourcommunity-fromrolesand responsibilitiestotimecommitmentsanddecision-making.
Choosethedateandlocationthatworksforyou: •Sept2–Viking SeniorsCentre •Sept3–RyleyCommunityCentre
•Sept4–Tof ieldCommunityHall
WHATSHAPPENINGINOURCOMMUNITY
BookClub
Location:RossCreekCommunityHall,531041RgeRd191 RuralbookclubthatmeetsthefirstTuesdayofeachmonth.Meetings runfrom7PM-8PM,allageswelcome!
TofieldAA -Thursdays,8-9PM BasementofBardoLutheranChurch,473757Ave,Tofield. VikingAA -Wednesdays,8PM,Zoomoptionalsoavailable. GoldenValleyLutheranChurch,532756Ave,Viking. https://area78aa.org/meetings/147-3
Submityourevent/s,meetingsand/orgatheringstotheeventscalendaronthewebsite! Justheadtothewebsite,undertheExploremenuclickonCountyRegionEvents Calendar.WehavepartneredwithGoEasttosharelocaleventsonourwebsite!
BACKTOSCHOOL&SOCIALMEDIASAFETY
LedbymunicipalexpertsStrategicSteps,thissessionwillcover: Councilroles&responsibilities
Decision-making&governance
Servicedelivery&partnerships
Workload,expectations&balance
Commonchallengesandhowtoavoidthem
Allsessionsrunfrom 6–8p.m. |Lightrefreshmentsprovided Thoseinterestedfrombothurbanandruralsettings arewelcome!Noregistrationrequired! Getprepared,informed,andinspiredtolead.
COMMUNITY GRANTPROGRAM
Claystoneisproudtooffergrantstocommunity not-for-profitorganizationstohelpfunddifferent eventsandactivities. OurNEWgrantcategoriesmakeapplyingforagrant mucheasier!
Tocelebratethenewprogram,wearetaking applicationsfromSeptember1-October31sowe canprocessapplicationssooner! Visit claystonewaste.com/grants formore informationontheCommunityGrantprogramand submityouronlineapplicationstartingSeptember1!
Thefirstdayofschoolisamilestonemanyparentsloveto shareonline.Beforeposting,keepthesetipsinmindto protectyourchild’sprivacyandsafety: Avoidpostingyourchild’sschoolname,teacher,orgrade-itcanmake themeasiertolocate.
Skipphotosthatshowhousenumbers,streetsigns,orlicenseplatesin thebackground.
Becautiouswith“firstdayofschool”signsthatincludepersonaldetails (name,age,school,hobbies).
Remember:onceposted,imagesandinformationcanbesaved, copied,orsharedwithoutyourcontrol.
SaferWaystoShare
Focusonfuntraditions:aphotoofyourchild’sbackpack,shoes,or lunchbox.
Sharegeneral“back-to-school”excitementwithoutidentifyingdetails. Alittleextracautiongoesalongwayinkeepingkidssafewhilestill celebratingthisexcitingtimeofyear!
HARVESTSEASONROADSAFETY
It’sthattimeofyearagain-swathers,combines,and otherfarmequipmentareonthemovethroughoutBeaverCounty.Please takeafewextramomentsontheroadtokeepeveryonesafethisharvest season:
ForDrivers:
Bepatient-farmequipmentoftentravelsunder40km/h.
Neverpassuntilyou’resureit’ssafe,andonlywhenyouhaveaclear viewoftheroadahead.
Watchforwideequipmentthatmaytakeupmorethanonelaneor makewideturns.
Stayalertforflashinglights,slow-movingvehiclesigns,andsudden stops.
ForFarmers&Operators:
Useproperlightingandreflectiveslow-movingvehiclesigns. Travelduringdaylighthourswheneverpossible. Ensureescortvehiclesareusedforespeciallywideloads. Checkthatmirrorsandlightsarecleanandvisiblebeforeheadingout.
Harvestisabusyseason-patienceandawarenessgoalongwayin keepingourroadssafeforbothfarmersandmotorists.Let’sallwork togethertomakesureeveryonegetshomesafely!
DIDYOUKNOW?
Albertahasover40,000farms,producingeverythingfrom wheatandcanolatocattleandhoney?Agriculturecontributesmorethan $10billionannuallytoAlberta’seconomy,andharvestseasonisoneofthe busiest-andmostrewarding-timesoftheyear.
Harvestisatimeofgratitude-fortheland,forthehandsthatworkit, andforthecommunitythatgathersaroundit.
CONSTRUCTIONUPDATEFORTHEFOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
Overthesummer,Countyconstructioncrewshavebeenworkingto upgradethefollowingroads: KingswayEstates
BeaverCreekEstatesNorth50514RGERD202
RGERD200fromSecondaryHWY630toHoopersDriveand CampgroundEntrance TWPRD492Approximately1.72kmseastofRGERD170 TWPRD490betweenHighway857&RGERD142 TWPRD490betweenHighway870&RGERD120
Theselocationswillsoonbegintoreceivethesecondlayerofchipsealand theremaybedelaysasworkcrews'directtraffictoworksafely.Therewill bemanylooserocksafterthesecondchipseallayerisappliedandspeed limitswillcontinuetobereducedontheseroadsuntilthefinalsweepis complete.BeaverCounty'sgoalistoprovideahealthy,injuryfreework environmentforallemployees,contractors,visitors,andgeneralpublic. Therearepotentialhazardstothepublicandvehiclesduringthe constructionprocess.Thiscanincludeheavymachinery,dustormud,road materialsuchasgravel,asphaltcoatingsandrockchips. Weapologizefortheinconveniencethatroadmaintenanceand upgradingcauses,butthesameroadsthatreceivethemosttrafficalso needthemostmaintenance.Thankyouforyourpatienceand understandingduringconstruction.Ifyouhaveanyquestions,pleasecall theBeaverCountyServiceCentreat780-663-3730.
PUBLICSALEOFLAND
NoticeisherebygiventhatundertheprovisionsoftheMunicipal GovernmentAct,BeaverCountywillofferforsale,bypublicauction,at theCountyOffice,at512050StreetRyley,Alberta,onThursday, September11,2025,at10:00AMthefollowinglands:
1562W6
32-37Kinsella1950.9m2
Eachparcelwillbeofferedforsalesubjecttoareservebidandtothe reservationsandconditionscontainedintheexistingcertificateof title.
BeaverCountymay,afterthepublicauction,becometheownerof anyparceloflandthatisnotsoldatthepublicauction.
Terms:Cash,certifiedchequeorbankdraft. Redemptionmaybeeffectedbypaymentofallarrearsoftaxesand costsatanytimepriortothesale.
DatedatRyley,Alberta,August22,2025.
COMMUNITYSUPPORTGRANTDEADLINE
Hard-SurfaceLocations Constructedinthefollowingphases: Phase1(P1): Cement, Phase2(P2): ChipSeal1stLift, Phase3(P3): ChipSeal 2ndlift, Phase4(P4): FinalsweepofChips.
KingswayEstates-501
RgeRd202betweenTwp502&504
BeaverCreekEstatesNorth-50514 RgeRd202
RgeRd200fromHwy630to campgroundentrance&Hoopers Dr Jun5
WhisperingHillsEstates-51308 RgeRd195
RgeRd200fromHwy630to BlackfootGrazingReserve Entrance
Twp492approx.1.72kmseastof RgeRd170
Twp490betweenHwy857&Rge Rd142
Twp490betweenHwy870&Rge Rd120
TwpRd512fromRgeRd191toHWY 834
ShoulderPulls(LocationTBD)
Backsloping(locationTBD) Oct2 Nov1
BridgeReplacement(RGERD171 fromTWP484-490 Jun26 Jul26
Gravelling Mar13 Dec22
DustControl-1stApplication May13 May30
DustControl-2ndApplication Aug8 Aug15
BeaverCountyvaluestheincredibleworkofcommunityorganizations! ThroughtheCommunitySupportGrantprogram,weprovidefunding andin-kindsupporttohelpbringimpactfulprojectstolife.
Thinkingaboutapplying?Here’swhatyou’llneed:
KayleenaSpiess ChiefAdministrativeOfficerAcompletedapplicationform, Adetailedprojectbudget, Theorganization’smostrecentfinancialstatements, Evidenceoffinancialneedorquotesfortheproject.
Deadline:September30th,2025
VisitourwebsiteunderCommunity>Community SupportRequestsformoreinformationortofilloutan applicationform.
Mailinglist
Getnews,meetinghighlights,theroad constructionschedule,theChronicle,and more-directtoyourinbox!
Website
Thesoilstabilizingfortheroadbasewithsoilcementisnowcomplete.We willsoonbestartingthefirstlayerofchipsealandtheremaybedelaysas workcrewsdirecttrafficinordertoworksafely.Therewillbemanyloose rocksafterthechipseallayerisappliedandspeedlimitswillbereduced ontheseroadsonceopeneduntiltheprojectiscomplete. Duringthisconstructionphase,portionsoftheroadmaybeclosedto allowcrewstoworksafelypleaseuseanotherroute,detourswillbe postedorbecautiouswhenyouneedtodrivethroughconstruction zones(localtrafficonly). BeaverCounty'sgoalistoprovideahealthy, injuryfreeworkenvironmentforallemployees,contractors,visitorsand generalpublic.Alreadythisyearwehavehadpeopleexceedingthe postedspeedlimitthroughourconstructionzones,endangeringstaff, contractorsandthepublic.Therearepotentialhazardstothepublicand vehiclesduringtheconstructionprocess.Thiscanincludeheavy machinery,dustormud,roadmaterialsuchasgravel,asphaltcoatings androckchips.Weapologizefortheinconveniencethatroad maintenanceandupgradingcauses,butthesameroadsthatreceivethe mosttrafficalsoneedthemostmaintenance.Thank-youforyourpatience andunderstandingduringconstruction.Ifyouhaveanyquestions,please calltheBeaverCountyServiceCentreat780-663-3730.
InformationonCountyprogramsandservicescan befoundonourwebsite,alongwiththelatestnews.
County awards 2025 Farm Family Award to Roulston Farms
Family very active in the Bruce community and the Bruce Ag Society
Patricia Harcourt
Roulston Farms is Beaver County’s recipient of the 2025 Farm Family Award.
“This award is intended to celebrate outstanding farm families who exemplify the values and traditions of family farming within their rural communities,” said the announcement.
The Farm Family Award winner is publicly recognized and given an award of recognition.
This award of recognition will include the family name added to a Farm Family plaque presented in Council Chambers.
The family will also receive an item of recognition with a maximum value of $1,000.
Award recipients are an active farm family unit “where agriculture is the major source of income,” said Agriculture Fieldman Jonathan Culbert, in his report to council. Also, the family should strive to increase awareness of agriculture and maintain a high standard in the agriculture business.
“Farm families can also promote the agriculture community through involvement and rural citizenship, be proactive in new agriculture technologies and act as a role model to the rural community,” explained Culbert.
And the Roulston Family has fulfilled these criteria and been involved in and helping their community through years of volunteering and hard work.
Roulston Farms is composed of Rob, Cynthia, and their children Joe and Taylor. They are the owners/operators of a cattle farm in the Bruce area of Beaver County.
The family is very active in the community with Rob being the fire chief for the Bruce Fire Department.
The family members all belong to the Bruce Ag Society with Cynthia the ag society president, and it keeps them very busy in their community.
Their nomination for the Farm Family award said: “There isn’t a time when they don’t have something on the go for the community.”
This includes events and fundraisers for the ag society, volunteering at the Bruce Stampede and helping elderly members of the community
with yard work and running errands.
Cynthia serves as a nurse in the Viking Health Centre and Taylor is studying for a nursing career in Grande Prairie. Taylor is often home for short visits to help out with events at the ag society or help out on the farm.
Their son also works hard for the farm and the family. “There’s always something to do on the farm and that’s where you’ll find Joe,” said the comments, adding he really has “a passion for the cows.”
“The Roulstons are a family that goes above and beyond for their community,” a statement that county council obviously agreed with when they voted for this family to receive the award for 2025.
CAO calls goal planning ‘a massive success’ for county
Patricia Harcourt
Beaver County’s Chief Administrative Officer Kayleena Spiess provided county council with an update on strategic priorities at the August 20 regular meeting.
The county’s corporate business plan as prepared by the CAO identifies action items that are used to implement council’s strategic plan. The CAO reports annually to county council on the progress of this plan’s action items.
Spiess reported that four years into the corporate business plan, the county has completed 82 per cent of the goals, and they are currently working on another 4 per cent.
“I think this has been a massive success for our organization,” she said.
There are six overall goals listed for the corporate business plan. They include establishing collaborative partnerships, providing excellent customer service, responsible financing, sustainable infrastructure, enhancing lifestyle, and providing strong leadership.
Referring to the county’s priority wheel of annual corporate goals, the CAO said that the county has completed the review of 102 policies under the Policy Review Project, and is currently working on another 32 more.
The review is designed to refresh
policies that haven’t been updated over the years, she said, calling it “another massive success.”
Projects listed included the Bylaw Review Project, which is a multi-year initiative, as is the New Software Implementation project, which Spiess said was in its third phase.
A Water Viability Project has been stalled this year but there will be work done in future to establish more potable and non-potable water in the county for its rural residents.
The Economic Development file has seen “a lot of headway,” she said, especially in the county’s industrial parks. More water will be needed to establish further business ventures in the county.
The county also continues to work with its urban partners within county boundaries to bolster the economic viability of the county.
Also, “a little bit stalled recently,” is the Surface Water Management Strategy, she said. This strategy goal has been “reprioritized to the Ag Service Department,” and will be going into the next stages of the process.
Other undertakings listed on this priority wheel are a long-term bridge strategy, asset management plan, recreation service agreements, as well as others that are in progress or yet to be started such as the workforce development plan.
County gives first reading to establish inter-municipal committees with towns
Beaver County Council gave first reading to four bylaws establishing Tofield/Beaver, Ryley/Beaver, Holden/Beaver and Viking/Beaver inter-municipal committees.
Margaret Jones, General Manager of Legislative Services, explained the reason for the bylaws being necessary.
“The county has been meeting with each of its urban counterparts for several years without a bylaw in place,” said Jones. “Administration has discussed the need for a bylaw with the town and village chief administrative officers and they will be presenting similar bylaws to their councils,” she said.
The meetings are attended by the county CAO and include four such
meetings every year for each intermunicipal committee.
Each inter-municipal committee consists of elected officials from the county and the respective urban municipality, Jones explained.
The Municipal Government Act (MGA) requires that committees of council must be established by bylaw, including inter-municipal committees.
“The proposed bylaws will bring these committees into compliance with provincial legislation,” said Jones.
County Council will consider passing second and third (final) readings of each of the bylaws at a later date. The same kind of legislation will also have to be passed by the towns of Tofield and Viking, and the villages of Ryley and Holden.
Patricia Harcourt
Viking CAO reports gearing up for municipal election
Patricia Harcourt Editor
The Town of Viking is involved with the Viking Healthcare Attraction and Retention Committee.
At Viking Council’s August 18 regular meeting, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Doug Lefsrud reported he was part of a doctor orientation tour recently.
Councillor Judy Acres also gave a report on how positive the tour turned out as the friendly people of the town were showcased.
Lefsrud also reported in his CAO report that he had a meeting with the contractor for the current capital infrastructure sewer project at the school, Kaon Infrastructure, along with the town’s engineers and public works department.
Work continues on keeping the town’s community standards bylaws
with help from bylaw enforcement, public works, Alberta Health Services and the RCMP, he said.
Lefsrud reported planning discussions were continuing with Pace Canada regarding the solar-based Valhalla Project, including components such as green hydrogen, an AI data centre, and an agro-tunnel for an agri-voltaic farming development.
“Pace and Tanner Environmental (are) working toward a grant application with the University of Saskatoon and the agri-voltaics research study in the Viking Solar Farm compound,” he stated.
“After an in-person meeting, council supports a four-year berry study in the existing municipal solar farm as in-kind support with the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon campus and
Olds College,” Lefsrud explained.
“This study will evaluate several different berry varieties and determine the best variety for our region.”
Also, preliminary preparations are underway for the upcoming municipal election on Oct. 20. Anyone who wishes to put themselves up for nomination must have their nomination papers in by noon on Friday, Sept. 19.
There is a new requirement for residents who wish to vote to register in advance with a deadline of Sept. 15. Residents can still vote without pre-registering but would have to fill out a form at the polls and bring ID with their full name and physical address on them.
Lefsrud said that “updates and communication with legal counsel regarding (S.H.) 619 matters,” have also taken
place
And, “Viking Airport continues to work with the user group regarding communicating maintenance and facility updates, (and) lease
development.” This is taking place following a visit by a delegation of airport users at a previous meeting.
Also, conversations have taken place with Beaver County administration and the review of the shared services agreement between the town and county, with a mind to “future ongoing road maintenance,” he said.
*Early Childhood Educators Wanted*
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UNRESERVED AUCTION SALE
LOCATION: 27218 Township Rd 522,
DIRECTIONS:
Tractor: JD 500 Tractor c/w F.E.L. c/w pallet forks; MF 50 Propane
Tractor c/w F.E.L.; JD 4010 Tractor, needs work; JD 2010, Parts
Equipment: JD 500 Tractor c/w F.E.L. c/w pallet forks; MF 50
Propane Tractor c/w F.E.L.; JD 4010 Tractor, needs work; JD 2010, Parts
Trailers: JD 500 Tractor c/w F.E.L. c/w pallet forks; MF 50 Propane Tractor c/w F.E.L.; JD 4010 Tractor, needs work; JD 2010, Parts
Quad: Polaris 600 Twin Sportman Quad, on demand A.W.D. c/w racks & winches
Miscellaneous: Hyundai HY 3400
R.V. Power Generator; Miller Thunderbolt 225 EL Welder; Metal Bandsaw; 478 Cummins Eng.
Organizers c/w Bolts & Screws; Assort. Tractor Parts; Assort. New Tires; Assort. Tractor Starters; Drill Press; Radial Arm Saw; Hyd. Parts; Smith Roles Tire Changer; New J.D. Rim for F.W.A.; Assort. Big Hyd. Winches; Assort Drill Bits; (3) 30-ft Pipe Pallet Racks; Pipe Stand; Assort. F.E. Loader Brackets; Assort. Hyd. Controlls & Hyd Blocks; Large Assort. Tools; Assort. Fittings; Butterfield Tap & Die Set; Bolt Bins c/w bolts; Sockets; Air Impacts; Pipe Wrenches; Crescents; Racking; Parts Bins; Work Benches; AC Tools; Computer; Filing Cabinets; Assort. Tractor Manuals; Assort. Part Manuals; Large Assort. Tractor Service Manuals; Many more items
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers
16,000 readers
NOTICES. EVENTS. ANNOUNCEMENTS. THANKS. MEMORIALS. SALES. RENTALS. REAL ESTATE. GIVE AWAYS. & MORE! PRICING
ANNOUNCEMENTS
SUMMER SALE!
$500 Off a pair of hearing devices! Free remote control! Can be combined with government funding from AADL of $900 Benchmark Hearing Centre
Main Street Daysland Phone 780-374-3748 Or book online! benchmarkhearingcentre.ca
Carrots, Potatoes, Beets, Beans Are Ready!!!
East of Sedgewick, off Highway 13, turn north on RR122, then go north 3 miles. Helen Tanton - 780-888-6800
28tfnc
FOR RENT
Storage Unit For Rent in Killam
Inside private warehouse building behind Community Press office. Security cameras on site, building heated in winter. Upstairs units available, approx 8’ x 12’. Back alley access only.
$99/mo. with $100 damage deposit. Or pre-pay for 6 months for $495 (1 month free) or pre-pay for 1 year for $990 (2 months free).
Rental contract required. First month due at signing. Call/Leave Voicemail for Ally 780-385-6693 or stop by The Community Press office on Main Street in Killam.
FOR SALE
CLASSIFIEDS
FOR SALE
Set of 4 Michelin Defender LTX M/S Tires - 265/65R18. Like new. $800. Phone 780-662-3347. TM33P
ARDENT Wood Stove to dismantle; Made in Canada. $3,000, will consider offers. Three-car carport, new, 30' by 36' to be moved from Andrew; please call for viewing/photos 780-888-7011 or 780-888-2600 32/33p ————————————————
Equipment For Sale
• Zero Turn Cub Cadet Lawnmower 54" with approximately 250 hours 2 years old
• Kubota Side by Side with Dump Box
• Massey Ferguson model 255 with approximately 3,000 hours with ease-on front end loader.
• Restored W30 International. New paint, runs good.
Call Norman at 780-385-8814. 33/37p ————————————————
BLS Fresh Garden Products
The following will be available soon: peas, beans, cucumbers, cabbages, dill. For other products please text 780-860-2672. In the Bruce area. TM32-35p
Large Round Tame Hay Bales for Sale. Phone: 780-679-7094
34/35p
4 month old Hens. Mixed breed Australorp, Plymouth Rock Columbian Rock Hens. Started to lay eggs. $18.00 a bird. More information phone or text 780-632-9881. LL32p
HELP WANTED
Lamont Vision Centre is hiring!
- Optician (licensed or student)
- Receptionist
Flexible hours for both positions.
Please email resume to bailee.cvc@gmail.com to apply. 34/37P
REAL ESTATE
½ Section Pastureland
NE 35 & NW 36-41-10-W4 located south of Hardisty in the Battle River valley at RR 101 & TWP RD 420. Fenced, cross-fenced, mix of seeded and tame grass with large dug-out, pumping system, full power on site with gravel revenue. Call Mike Golka REMAX River City 780-914-9889 MLS#’s E4447511 & E4447499
REAL ESTATE
Looking for New Farm & Commercial Listings! Give us a call, we’d love to sell your property! Hill Realty Inc. 780-449-5622
nhill01@telus.net www.hillrealty.ca
SERVICES
——————————-
Town & Country Guardian Drugs - Killam
We have: •a colour photocopier. •cold pop and fresh snacks. •a great selection of giftware, houseware, fragrances, clothing, toys, games, plush animals and more. •a big selection of greeting cards. •stationery. •seasonal gifts •vitamins, minerals, supplements •free gift wrapping •prescription service 6 days a week.
————————————————
General Contractor
Red Seal Journeyman Plumber and Gasfitter. Bathroom Renos & Tile New to the Area. 30 plus Years of Experience. Dave 403-999-8464
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Medical Taxi Service
Personal Taxi Service to Edmonton and Back -$175
•Office Hours Mon-Fri 9-5
•Absolutely NO Hidden Fees
•Escort to Reception/Waiting Room
•Pick up and Drop off at your door
•Top Notch Service! •Includes up to 4 Hour Wait•Locally Owned and Operated. 587-987-7810
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Drywall Taping/Ceiling Texturing
Experienced Killam drywall taper/texturer here to help you with any job, big or small. Don't want to do it yourself? Give me a call!
Flagstaff Taping & Texturing Murray Cholowsky Call or text at 780-385-1251
PRICING
$20/wk for the first 35 words 45¢ for each additional word 4 Papers
16,000 readers
SERVICES
Painting
Quality Residential and Commercial Interior Painting. Betty Tkaczyk 780-632-8749
Hakim Oberg Law
ALA HAKIM OBERG
Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public Based in Forestburg, AB 5004 - 49 Ave. (Professional Centre, 2nd Floor) Please call for appointment. 780-238-6938 ala@hakimoberglaw.com www.hakimoberglaw.com
Hawkeye Custom Corral Cleaning Hawkeye Ag Inc is your complete solution for corral cleaning. We also provide services in the agriculture space: land clearing, pen rebuilding, aggregate for small and large farm operations. Based out of Lamont. 780-718-7479
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GENERAC Generators It’s not just a Generator, it’s a Power Move. Receive a free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase - valued at $535 Call 587-803-3600 to schedule your free quote! ——————————————— Leave the tanks at home.
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Crossword
Viking RCMP Quarterly Report discusses community relations and crime stats
Patricia Harcourt Editor
Viking RCMP submitted its quarterly report covering the period of April 1 to June 30 at the Aug. 18 meeting of Viking Council.
“This report provides a snapshot of human resources, financial data and crime statistics for the Viking Detachment,” stated Sgt. Ray Stack, Detachment Commander.
Crime reduction measures included officers monitoring four habitual offenders.
“Two of the four had been found breaching their conditions and were placed back into the justice system, or out of Viking,” stated the report.
Stack added: “Members have been active on their warrant roundups and put them back into the justice system.”
Members had completed four production orders and one tracking warrant. This “concluded with five more proactive arrests placing the individuals back in the justice system,” reported Stack.
“There were nine measurable releases of crime prevention information to the public through county and town media platforms,” which Stack said led to positive results.
“Through education, intelligence driven information, and visibility members were successful in gathering 23 crime prevention tips that led to files providing members with valuable information that targeted certain areas of concern and different types of crime,” he noted.
He said that, “at the end of this quarter, there are two offenders that are monitored with no one in the area with outstanding warrants.”
Another emphasis on community consultations has resulted in officers attending Viking School to “engage with various groups of kids in play and chatting, including all ages of youth.”
A bike safety course was also completed at the school for students from kindergarten to Grade 6 led by the RCMP.
Viking Colony to complete an education session with topics discussed like youth crime reduction initiatives, said Stack.
Members also attended the Viking school to ensure youth were following proper safety skills regarding bike riding, walking and driving.
And in April a three-onthree hockey tournament took place to “allow youth to engage with the members during hockey games,” he said, noting there was, “lots of positivity amongst all that attended, and relations were created and increased with youth.”
He also reported that “rapport building to assist with potential issues with…youth,” was being made at the school.
Information regarding trends, county topics and initiatives were also
shared with those county councillors who represent the detachment’s area of Beaver County.
Other opportunities with youth manifested when officers noticed students playing football during school lunch.
“Members joined in, played and conversed with the kids which then brought more out to play and engage,” he said.
The youth connection also includes issues such as vaping, which is attractive to many young people.
“Members attended stores in town that sell vapes and products as there have been concerns at the school of young kids acquiring and smoking (these products,” he said. The issue was discussed with the stores “about potentially selling to youth if applicable.”
Towards the end of May, RCMP met with officials from the Eastern Alberta Regional Victim Services Society (EARVSS) and the Town of Viking. EARVSS has taken over the work of smaller organizations such as now defunct Beaver County Victim Services, a province-wide initiative from the government.
The meeting was “to discuss and educate on (the) new process for victims,” that the EARVSS is mandated to carry out in this region of the province.
“Feedback on what is working and what is not was addressed,” he said.
Another similar meeting between EARVSS, Beaver County and the RCMP was held to discuss the same parameters as provided above.
Continued on Page 12
Officers also attended
Continued from Page 11
On May 22, a pow wow was held in Viking in which the RCMP from the Viking, Killam, and District Offices participated.
Stack reported that this resulted in “great education and relations building for all involved.”
RCMP and health services gave a presentation on marijuana vaping and its legalities to youth during an education session.
Viking RCMP concluded May’s activities with its annual community barbecue that Stack said helps to open lines of communication with leaders of the community and the public who attend.
Students at Viking School were given a presentation on an internet platform called “Discord.” Stack said youth were being targeted as victims of crime on this site.
“Viking RCMP ended up staying for gym class to engage further with the class,” he said.
A town hall for the west end of the detachment’s
coverage area was held at the hamlet of Bruce for people living in that part of Beaver County.
A Bike Rodeo was held in partnership with the Town of Viking, Beaver County, the school division, and FCSS to focus on bike safety while building further relationships with youth.
Statistics provided in the police report for the months of April to June indicate a drop in break and enters and a rise in mental health cases.
From April to June of 2025, there were four cases of assault (five in the same time period last year), and three cases of criminal harassment (the same number from April to June 2024).
Last year there were three cases of uttering threats, but none during the same period this year.
Total persons-related crimes dropped from 12 last year to seven from April to June this year, or a drop of 42 per cent over the same months last year.
From April to June this year, there were no cases of break and enter; however, for the same time period last year there were 15. Two cases of motor vehicle theft last year
dropped to zero this year for that quarter.
And, although last year there were none, this year saw a case of theft over $5,000 in the quarterly report of April to June.
The report also states that nine cases last year of theft under $5,000 have reduced to five for that quarter this year.
There were two cases of possession of stolen goods for the quarterly period in question, but for the same quarterly period last year there was only one case.
Fraud cases were three last year and four this year for that quarterly period.
And there was one each of arson for both years in that time period.
Fourteen cases of mischief - damage to property last year dropped to five this year during April to June, a drop of 57 per cent.
And other types of mischief cases also dropped from three last year to none this year in that quarterly report.
Total property crimes dropped from 48 from April to June last year, to 19 this year; 60 per cent less.
There was one offensive weapons case each in 2024 and 2025, with disturbing
the peace incidents dropping from three to one. Failure to comply and breach of conditions/probation dropped from four to three.
Total criminal code cases dropped from 11 last year to seven this year; a drop of 36 per cent
Of note, cases dealing with mental health issues under the Mental Health Act rose from nine last year to 12 this year, an increase of 33 per cent for the same April to June period as last year.
RCMP Report
Continued from Page 5
domestic dispute in progress at a rural property west of Bruce. When police arrived on scene they found both involved individuals had already departed. The investigation into this matter is ongoing.
Early on Aug. 24, police received a call for assistance from EMS attend-
ing on scene at a party where a person had fallen into a campfire. Police also attended and spoke with the person in question and determined the injuries were accidental and no offence had taken place.
During this time period, several violation tickets and warnings were given out for various traffic offences. Police also dealt with several 911 hang ups that originated from the same location.
Machinery Consignment Auction
We are now accepting Listings for this Sale. Any items prelisted by September 10th will be included in our Sales Posters, Newspaper & Radio
&
equipment to all four Western provinces and the Northern USA.
