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Mark your calendars - Super Saturday is making a comeback in Berwyn on December 6th. Festivities include a Christmas parade, a bake sale at the library, cocoa and photos with Santa and glitter tattoos at the Golden Age Drop-In Centre, a Farmers’ Market at the Ag Hall, Christmas Open Houses at Fuel Up and Trinity Repair, a Turkey and Ham Bingo at the Elks Hall, gift card giveaway at the Thrift Store, and 10% off storewide at Kozy Korner Store. The Village of Berwyn extends a sincere thank-you to the Grimshaw & District Chamber of Commerce  (GDCC) for spearheading this event. Chance Gerk, GDCC President, attended the Village of Berwyn's November Council Meeting to provide background and an update for new and returning Councillors on the supports and services GDCC provides, as well as the revival of Super Saturday. We are grateful for the ways they help make our Village a welcoming place to live and visit. Thank you for making this opportunity to come together possible. If you would like to register for the parade, offer a promotion or incentive at your business, or host a festive activity, please contact the Chamber at info@grimshawchamber.com .

Below are the highlights from the November 13, 2025 Council Meeting: Chamber of Commerce Delegation Chance Gerk, President of the Grimshaw & District Chamber of Commerce, attended the Council meeting to introduce himself and provide an overview of the Chamber’s support and upcoming initiatives in Berwyn. Berwyn is supported under the Grimshaw & District Chamber, which has taken the lead in organizing the Super Saturday event, which is making its comeback on December 6th. The lineup of events includes a Christmas parade at noon, the Berwyn Farmers’ Market, Fuel Up and Trinity Repair are hosting Christmas Open Houses, Berwyn Library Bake Sale, hot coco, glitter tattoos and photos with Santa at the Golden Age Drop-Inn Centre, 10% off storewide at Kozy Korner Store, gift card draw at the Berwyn Christ Anglican Thrift Store, and a Turkey and Ham Bingo at the Berwyn Elks. He also highlighted the success of the revived Berwyn Fiesta and the Chamber’s continued support for 2026. Assessment Presentation with KCL Consulting Grant Clark, Property Assessor with KCL Consulting, attended the Council meeting to provide an informational presentation regarding the property assessment process. Bylaw Enforcement Services Council reviewed and discussed bylaw enforcement service options and directed CAO Jatin Saini to gather additional information for Council’s consideration. Peace Regional Subdivision and Development Appeal Board The Peace Regional Subdivision and Development Appeal Board serves as an appeal body for its member municipalities, adjudicating appeals from decisions of those municipalities' subdivision and development authorities. As a member municipality, Council approved the appointment of members and clerks to the board. Fuel Up Community Access Centre Tax Exemption As requested by Fuel Up Community Access Centre, Council approved a one-year municipal tax exemption for the organization as a new non-profit business in Berwyn under the Village’s tax incentive program. The approval is conditional on Fuel Up submitting a complete tax exemption application by December 31, 2025. Code of Conduct Bylaw 690 Repeal Council passed all three readings of Bylaw No. 726, which removes the Village’s previous Code of Conduct Bylaw (Bylaw 690). The Province recently updated the rules for municipalities through Bill 50, requiring communities to follow the new provincial standards instead of maintaining their own bylaws. Repealing the old bylaw ensures Berwyn is fully aligned with the updated Municipal Government Act and current provincial requirements. Access to Information Bylaw 727 Council gave all three readings to approve the Access to Information Bylaw 727, which replaces the Village’s former FOIP bylaw (Bylaw 722). This updates Berwyn’s procedures to align with Alberta’s new Access to Information Act and sets out how access requests will be handled. Skate and Bike Park Quote Council reviewed a proposed quote from Drop In Skateparks for a concrete skate and bike park. The idea skatepark is presented as a low-maintenance, low-overhead recreation option and would provide something for kids and youth to do in the community. Potential funding sources include the Local Government Fiscal Framework (LGFF) and a grant from Alberta Blue Cross. Council accepted it as information and will revisit the conversation during budget deliberations. Reports and Correspondence Council reviewed Councillor reports, the CAO report, Public Works and Communications Consultant reports, as well as the finance report and update, cash position and cheque listing. Council also reviewed correspondence, including a congratulatory message from Dan Williams, Minister of Municipal Affairs, to the newly elected Village Council.

Are you an adult enrolling or already enrolled in a medical or health-related program (in-person or online)? Or do you know a Grade 12 student enrolling in a healthcare program? The Grimshaw Regional Healthcare Attraction and Retention Committee Scholarship is here to help you pursue your dreams in healthcare! With a $3,000 scholarship, we’re encouraging students to live, study, and work in the region. Thanks to the generous support from the Town of Grimshaw, MD of Peace, Village of Berwyn, and County of Northern Lights, this scholarship is designed to support students who want to make a difference in the healthcare field, while contributing to the well-being of our local community. Four $3000 scholarships are available, and the application deadline is December 31, 2025. Eligibility: • Complete the scholarship application form • Proof of acceptance into a health or medical-related program • Submit a 500-700 word essay • One professional reference • Residency in the County of Northern Lights, Town of Grimshaw, MD of Peace 135, or Village of Berwyn Learn more and apply at https://grimshaw.ca/scholarship

The Village of Berwyn Administration Office will be closed on November 11, 2025, as we remember and honour the sacrifices made for our freedom. Mayor Nicole Johnson will attend the Grimshaw Legion Remembrance Day Ceremony on behalf of Village Council. The ceremony begins at 10:30 a.m. outside at the Cenotaph, followed by an indoor service and a potluck lunch at 1:00 p.m.

The Village of Berwyn has officially submitted an application to be featured in Home Town Takeover Canada, a U.S.-based HGTV series newly introduced to Canada. The show is designed to help revitalize one small Canadian community and aims to highlight the heart and resilience of small towns across the country. Mayor Nicole Johnson heard about the opportunity from her employer and eagerly began looking into how to apply. “I was inspired to apply because I kept thinking about the kids, families, and how much we all need more ways to get outside, connect, and enjoy our community,” says Mayor Johnson. “This application wasn’t just about revitalization—it was my way of saying thank you to the incredible residents who make this place home.” The first step in the process involved filling out an online application and answering a series of questions about the Village. HGTV later contacted Johnson to say the application had caught their eye and requested a follow-up video showing more of Berwyn and explaining why it would be a great fit for the show. “It has been fun knowing that it could be a possibility, and I hope this inspires our community to believe again and see Berwyn as a place we can shape together,” says Mayor Johnson. “I want families to feel proud, kids to feel excited, and neighbours to feel connected. This isn’t just about winning a makeover—it’s about reigniting our spirit, showing that even small villages can dream big, and reminding each other that we’re worth investing in.” The video submission captures the essence of Berwyn, advocates for the importance of and need for recreational opportunities in the community, and includes interviews with several residents and Mayor Johnson. “We couldn’t have done this without the support of the Lac Cardinal Regional Economic Development Board (LCRED), Dani from Rural Heart Media, and the residents featured in the video,” says Mayor Johnson. LCRED, a partnership between the Village of Berwyn, the Town of Grimshaw, and the Municipal District of Peace No. 135, provided support and funded the creation of the video. LCRED works with all three communities to nurture an economically strong and diverse region. Residents can view the video submission on the Village of Berwyn’s YouTube channel,  website and Facebook page. The application deadline was November 1, and HGTV is expected to contact shortlisted towns later this year or early in the new year. Video link on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9q3hZLTRsOQ

The Village of Berwyn held its annual organizational meeting on October 27, 2025, where Nicole Johnson was re-elected as Mayor by acclamation and Brian Carreau was elected as Deputy Mayor. This marks Johnson’s second term on Council and second year serving as Mayor. “It’s an honour to continue serving the residents of Berwyn,” says Mayor Nicole Johnson. “We have a committed Council that’s eager to build on the progress we’ve made and continue strengthening our community. I encourage residents to stay engaged, attend meetings, and share their ideas as we move forward together.” This is Brian’s first term on Council and first year as Deputy Mayor. “I’m honoured to serve on Council and look forward to working alongside my fellow Councillors and residents,” says Brian. “Together, we can continue moving Berwyn forward and make it a community we’re all proud to call home.” During the meeting, Councillors were appointed to various committees and boards, and the Remuneration Policy was reviewed. Regular Council meetings will take place on the second Thursday of each month at 6:00 p.m. These meetings are open to the public and held in Council Chambers at the Village of Berwyn Administration Building. The first Regular Council Meeting of the new Council is scheduled for November 13, 2025. Village of Berwyn Council photo below (left to right) Councillor Jane Weber, Mayor Nicole Johnson, Councillor Patrick O'Brien, Deputy Mayor Brian Carreau, and Councillor Tristen Vanderklok.

The Village of Berwyn is pleased to welcome Gus and Hilda de Jong, new owners of the former Trinity Repair Building on Main Street Berwyn and founders of the Fuel-Up Community Access Centre. Fuel-Up is a non-profit organization that, in addition to providing fuel for the community and visitors, offers meaningful employment for adults with physical or developmental disabilities, as well as skill-building and mentorship opportunities for youth. “Our goal is to provide a safe, encouraging space where everyone learns, contributes, and takes pride in their work,” says Hilda de Jong. “We specifically focus on providing opportunities for adults with physical or developmental disabilities who may not thrive in a typical workplace. Our employees will gain experience at the pump, in the store, and in the workshop doing woodworking or small-engine repair.” The idea for Fuel-Up grew from the de Jongs’ personal experience raising a son with a disability. “We realized how few local job opportunities exist after high school,” says Hilda. “In the Netherlands, inclusive workplaces are present in almost every town, and we wanted to bring that same spirit here. Berwyn’s small-town community feel makes it the perfect place to start.” Fuel-Up is governed by a board of directors and relies on fuel sales, fundraising, community support, and grant funding to operate. The goal is to become financially sustainable so profits can be reinvested into programs, equipment, and opportunities for workers. Looking ahead, the de Jongs envision a busy shop and fuel station that provides steady work for 10-20 individuals. They aim to develop community projects, strengthen diversity and inclusion in the region, and add paid staff as soon as possible. Practical projects in development that both generate revenue and build skills include offering custom laundry services for local businesses, upcycling, building picnic benches, car detailing, equipment cleaning, and preparing firewood bundles. Volunteers will help match each project to individual skills, and Fuel-Up welcomes new ideas from local groups or businesses. “At Fuel-Up, we create jobs that fit the person — not the other way around,” says Hilda. Hilda also shared that Fuel-Up and Youth Unlimited in Grimshaw already have plans to partner on youth mentoring and skill-building programs, and many locals have shown interest in working or volunteering with Fuel-Up. “We are so pleased to have Gus and Hilda open and operate their meaningful organization right here in Berwyn,” says Nicole Johnson, Village of Berwyn Mayor. “Not only are they providing an essential service, their vision and work bring real value to our community and region, and we are so grateful they chose Berwyn to do it.” Community members, businesses, and organizations can support Fuel-Up by fueling up in Berwyn, volunteering, bringing in work projects, or donating materials such as paint, tools, or building supplies. They are also graciously accepting used furniture for upcycling projects. With renovations nearing completion, people can expect to see new faces at the pump in November, followed by a grand opening celebration on December 6, 2025. Follow Fuel-Up Community Access Centre on Facebook for updates, or contact them at fuelupcommunity@gmail.com or 780-338-0338. Photo (Board of Directors): Left to right: Jamie Friesen, Barry Dale, Michael Kuhn, Gus and Hilda de Jong, and Rachelle Koch

The Village of Berwyn is pleased to share the official results of the 2025 Municipal Election held on October 20, 2025. Serving on Council for the 2025–2029 term are: Brian Carreau Nicole Johnson Patrick O’Brien Tristan Vanderklok Jane Weber The Organizational Meeting of Council will take place on Monday, October 27, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., where members will be sworn in and select the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and committee appointments. The official results document is availble below as published by Alberta Municipal Affairs.

For immediate release October 20, 2025 - The Village of Berwyn is pleased to announce the unofficial results of the 2025 Municipal Election held on October 20, 2025. The following individuals have been elected to serve as Councillors for the 2025–2029 term (vote counts to be confirmed): Brian Carreau – 72 Nicole Johnson – 62 Patrick O’Brien – 75 Tristan Vanderklok – 50 Dan Weber – 19 (resigned from Council on September 29, 2025) Jane Weber – 55 “We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the election, and to all candidates for their dedication, interest and willingness to serve the Village of Berwyn,” says CAO Jatin Saini. The Organizational Meeting of Council will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. During this meeting, Councillors will be sworn in, and Council will elect the Mayor and Deputy Mayor. Committee member representation for the 2025–2029 term will also be determined.

The Village Office will be operational but closed to the public tomorrow (October 21). For any urgent Public Works matters, please call 780-625-7290. For other pressing matters, please leave a voicemail at the Village Office at 780-338-3922 and/or direct emails to clerk@berwyn.ca . We appreciate your support and will closely monitor both lines of communication.

Voting is open October 20, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Berwyn Agricultural Hall for both the Municipal Election and the School Board Elections. When you come to vote, please bring proof of residency such as a utility bill, rental agreement, or any document showing your current address. A picture ID is also required. Thank you for participating in your local elections!

Are you an adult enrolling or already enrolled in a medical or health-related program (in-person or online)? Or do you know a Grade 12 student enrolling in a healthcare program? The Grimshaw Regional Healthcare Attraction and Retention Committee Scholarship is here to help you pursue your dreams in healthcare! With a $3,000 scholarship, we’re encouraging students to live, study, and work in the region. Thanks to the generous support from the Town of Grimshaw, MD of Peace, Village of Berwyn, and County of Northern Lights, this scholarship is designed to support students who want to make a difference in the healthcare field, while contributing to the well-being of our local community. Four $3000 scholarships are available, and the application deadline is December 31, 2025. Eligibility: • Complete the scholarship application form • Proof of acceptance into a health or medical-related program • Submit a 500-700 word essay • One professional reference • Residency in the County of Northern Lights, Town of Grimshaw, MD of Peace 135, or Village of Berwyn Learn more and apply at https://grimshaw.ca/scholarship