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Vol. 66, No. 5
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Page 2 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
Town council seeks ways to improve staffing structure, open up to community By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye For the first time in many years, town council opened the doors to its Committee of the Whole meeting. Ponoka News was able to attend and report on the meeting, and while council does not make any decisions at a Committee of the Whole meeting, it gives a chance for councillors to plan. First on the agenda was strategic planning; Mayor Rick Bonnett suggested a retreat be planned so staff and council could spend two days to plan. Acting CAO Betty Quinlan said council and directors previously would meet in the council chambers for a two-day period but there was less chance for council to speak with staff in a social setting. Bonnett liked the idea of leaving town as a team building exercise. “At least you get that feeling that your staff gets to know council.” He suggests when council is given a request for decision, how that decision affects council’s strategic
planning should also be included. Quinlan is looking at different companies that provide guidance in strategic planning and a weekend in February is tentatively planned for the retreat. Review of the town’s organization Council wants a review of staff and servicing levels in the Town of Ponoka. Quinlan wanted to know what council’s goal is with an organizational review of this nature. “What do you want done? How much do you want to spend?” “We don’t want a six month review. I think we want somebody to come in. We need advice on what our organizational structure should look like,” Quinlan said. A consultant would be able to show where the pressure points are in the organization and provide solutions, she added. She wanted council to be prepared for a recommendation to hire more staff. While the town may not be able
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to afford a large number of new employees, Quinlan suggests the feedback would help her plan for the future. Someone from outside the organization would also be able to provide an unbiased recommendation, she added. Coun. Carla Prediger likes the idea of hearing what staff think as well. “Staff have to have an opportunity to speak.” But there is the worry that looking at the organizational charts of the Town of Ponoka’s employees may cause some confusion once a new CAO is hired. Bonnett feels council should act rather than wait. He has heard it took some communities up to a year before finding a town manager, which is six months more than council estimated. Potential to increase staff servicing levels Council is looking at what it would take to increase staff servicing levels, and how to pay for them. Bonnett has asked town directors to look at their staffing needs. “Whatever they come up with, we’d have to find the money and the money’s not going to pop magically into the air.” He feels if they do decide to hire more employees that some capital projects may need to be pushed back. Quinlan said the town receives some federal and provincial grants but some have restrictions. “If we do add staffing, it’s gotta be on an ongoing basis. You’re dollars have to be ongoing,” added Quinlan. “Whatever we reduce will become a permanent reduction to capital spending,” she added. Changing how council meets with residents Coffee with Council used to be an informal quarterly meeting with councillors in the council
chambers or at the Kinsmen Community Centre. Coun. Prediger suggested a different format. “Can we not be more creative in this?” “We could focus on major groups where we focus on events,” she added. Prediger feels councillors would get more information from residents if they attended different events and were open to hearing what people have to say. Quinlan said she has seen other municipalities would go to a local restaurant and buy coffee for the first hundred people who came in to buy coffee. Councillors could then take that time to hear from residents. No decisions were made but councillors want to hear back from residents on suggestions on how the informal meeting is held and they are looking for suggestions to change the name of Coffee with Council. Councillors hope to speak with residents Feb. 17 on Family Day with a time to be determined. Looking at fees for recreation groups Coun. Tim Falkiner wants to attract more people to Ponoka’s recreation. He suggested one of the ways to do that is to reduce recreation groups’ fees by 50 to 60 per cent. Falkiner feels an agreement could be made with these groups to lower their user fees if the town does. This could potentially increase the number of people playing in these groups. “All the recreation in town is dropping. We need to be able to advertise, ‘Move to Ponoka and your kids can play,’” explained Falkiner. He feels this will be a draw for people to come to Ponoka. “If you can cut the fees for individual families in half, that’s huge.” Falkiner suggests these rates be lowered only to Ponoka town and county residents. Bonnett feels this discussion may need to happen with Ponoka County, as the county contributes almost Donations are being accepted to show support for $300,000 to Ponoka for recreation. He feels Travis Ogilvie, RCMP member both municipalities who was injured by Tofield, AB., January 6. should be in agreement before making any deAll donations will be sent to Valour Place in cisions. The Town of Edmonton in Travis’ name as requested by his wife, Ponoka subsidizes Leah. Travis and Leah both grew up in Ponoka. recreation at approximately $1 million a Valour Place is a non-profit facility that is a year.
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PONOKA NEWS Page 3
BC driver nabbed on highway impaired by drugs By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
Heroic act recognized by RCMP By Mustafa Eric Richard Wolf of Ermineskin Cree First Nation was recognized by RCMP for his “heroic act” on Thursday, Jan 23 with a certificate praising his intervention which may have saved a life on a wet night in April 2013. Curtis Zablocki, RCMP Chief Superintendent and District Officer for Central Alberta presented the certificate to Wolf after giving a detailed account of the incident. According to the account given at the ceremony, Wolf was driving on the highway close to midnight on April 15, 2013 when he noticed an object in the ditch, which was full of water. He stopped and got off of his vehicle only to see that a vehicle rolled over into the ditch sitting on its roof, two young passengers inside and the driver about to be drowned in the water filling the car as his seatbelt got stuck and could not be released. Wolf instructed the young passengers in the car how to help the driver keep his head above the water and later got the two passengers out and then released the seatbelt and got the driver out as well. Once they were out, Wolf seated the totally soaked individuals in his own vehicle to keep them warm and contacted emergency services to ask for assistance. Zablocki said without Wolf’s intervention, the driver could well have died. Richard Wolf, for his part, said at the ceremony that he was the representative of “a beautiful nation” whose members would always act in the same way. “I thank the Creator for helping me save those individuals,” he said. Later in an interview, Wolf said he had witnessed more than 50 similar incidents involving crashes, rollovers or collisions and he had developed a kind of experience in how to assist people in such difficult circumstances. “I think the Creator has a plan for me” he said in reference to so many crashes he had to come across. “It has become something of a gift, you get in there, you assess what it is that is going on, you comfort the individual and take out of harm’s way.”
Ponoka law officers caught a motorist high on Ketamine last week. Members of the Ponoka Integrated Traffic Unit responded to a call of an erratic driver Jan. 23 at 8:30 p.m. The suspect, a 31-year-old man from Kelowna, B.C., was driving a 2014 grey Nissan Titan south of Ponoka when officers stopped the vehicle. The man provided a blood-alcohol sample, which showed a ‘low’ result. However, officers believed the man had taken some drugs as he had the Ketamine powder on his nose. He was charged with being impaired by drugs and was released with a promise to appear in court. Drunk refuses to leave bar Police charged a 36-year-old Ponoka man for breach of conditions Jan. 23 at 8:30 p.m. after refusing to leave a downtown bar. Staff refused to serve the man alcohol as he was drunk, he then became belligerent and threatened to tear the bar apart. Officers were called to assist and they found the man outside the bar. He was on conditions to not drink alcohol and not to enter a bar. Truck rollover Emergency crews attended the scene of a pickup truck rolling several times Jan. 23 at 9 a.m. A blue GMC Sierra was south of Ponoka on Highway 2A near Morningside when it hit the ditch and rolled. The driver, a 21-year-old woman from Rimbey, was taken to the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre by a good Samaritan where she was then picked up to be taken to the University of Alberta Hospital for a neck injury. RCMP statement: Missing male found Truck stolen deceased in Maskwacis Police are looking for a white 2006 Ford F250 On Saturday Jan. 25 at 16:40, Maskwacis after it was taken off the street Jan. 19. The owner had dropped off the truck at a repair RCMP along with Emergency Medical Services responded to a location on the Samson First Nation where the shop and put his keys in a drop box. It is believed the body of a deceased male was located. truck was not there the next morning but the keys The male was located in an open area approximately were still in the drop box. 1.5 km south of Highway 611 East. Child left unattended Police believe the deceased, who was last seen on Jan. The parent of a three-year-old boy received a 17 in the Maskwacis area was reported missing to Maskverbal warning last week after leaving their child in wacis RCMP on January 24. a car for almost an hour. The male has been identified as 17-year-old Travis The boy was left unattended in the car at a store RAIN of Maskwacis. The police investigation is continuparking lot for some time until witnesses called po- ing, and pending autopsy results, the death is not being considered suspicious at this time. lice. An autopsy scheduled for Monday, Jan. 27 has been Electronics taken from home A break and enter to a home on the 6000 block postponed until Tuesday January 28th. Further information will be provided as it becomes of 54 Avenue has resulted in two computer tablets available. and a digital camera being taken. Police were called to the home Jan. 24 and were told that sometime 5013 Chipman Ave. between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. these electronics items were taken. There are no suspects at this time. February Gas and dash Special Police are looking for a suspect involved in a gas and dash Jan. 22 at 10 a.m. at a Highway 2A full color service gas station. The culprit is believed to have been • Complete family driving a black Pontiac hair care Grand Am but no licence plate marker was • Tanning obtained. Baylee Haarstad, Danita Brown (20 + years experience), • Body piercing If you have inforJo Lawes (10 + years experience), Lisa Winter, mation on any crime Cecil June call Ponoka RCMP at Danita & Jo welcome all past & future clientele to drop in for all your hair care needs. 403-783-4472 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222Now available for bookings 8477.
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Richard Wolf of Ermineskin Cree First Nation with Inspector Charles Wood (left) of RCMP Maskwacis Detachment and Curtis Zablocki, Chief Superintendent, District Officer for Central Alberta during the ceremony of recognition at the Jim Rattlesnake building in Ermineskin on Thursday, Jan. 23. Photo by Mustafa Eric
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Page 4 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
Your Guide To Local Houses of Worship CHURCH DIRECTORY Associated Gospel Churches of Canada
CHURCH OF THE OPEN BIBLE Pastor Jerry Preheim • Pastor Matt Sealy 3704 - 42 St. Ponoka 403-783-6500 Worship Service 11:00 a.m. • churchoftheopenbible@telus.net
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PONOKA
Sr. Pastor Paul Spate Erin Dirsten - Fac. Youth & Family Min. 5109 - 57 Ave. Ponoka www.fbcponoka.org 403-783-5533 Bible Discovery Hour 9:30 a.m.
Worship Service 10:30 a.m.
NEW COVENANT BAPTIST REFORMED CHURCH Currently meeting at Ponoka Christian School 6300-50 St. Worship Service Sunday 10:30 a.m. Everyone Welcome! phone: 403-783-6962 • www.baptistreformedponoka.org
PARKLAND REFORMED CHURCH South on 2A, West on Spruce Road 403-783-1888 Worship Service 10:00 a.m. & 2:30 p.m. Rev. Mitch Ramkissoon www.parklandurc.org
PONOKA ALLIANCE CHURCH 4215 - 46 St. Pastor Norm Dibben 403-783-3958 Sunday Service 11:00 a.m. The Christian & Missionary Alliance
PONOKA WORD OF LIFE CHURCH Pastor Rob McArthur
403-783-5659
Sunday @ 10:30 a.m.
Corner of Hwy 53 & Hwy 2A (former Crossroads Restaurant)
www.wordoflife.ca
We are more the same than different As I write this, our turn to host the Ponoka Week of Prayer lunch is over. We shared the privilege with the Catholic parish and I enjoyed that. Deacon Rollie Comeau and I have had a chance to become better acquainted because of it. Not only that, but because we chose to share the devotion, we had to talk about what we believe and that was the best part. We discovered something wonderfully important in the process. We chose to talk about sacraments. One way to define the word is, a visible sign of an invisible grace. We believe that something real happens through use of water in baptism, through the eating and drinking of bread and wine in communion or Eucharist and when rings are exchanged in a wedding. In a sacramental moment, God gives grace. Sure, there are differences in our traditions, but as we spoke, it became clear that the differences were in the details. Big picture we could affirm each other and celebrate what we hold in common. And this is kind of a big deal. Some may know that the history of the Reformed and Catholic churches started with division. At that time, those details were enough to inspire angry words and violent acts. And while that was about 500 years ago, the division remains along with the suspicion. At least for some. But as we spoke and explained these things to each other and those who were present, something happened. I noticed how the faces of the people present began to light up. It turns out that the things
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SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH PASTOR DAVE BEAUDOIN 6230-57 Ave. Ph. 403-783-6404 Saturdays 9:30 - 12 Noon dsjjb@xplornet.com ponokaadventist.ca
SONRISE CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH Pastor W. Delleman Worship Service 10:30 a.m. ½ mile south of Centennial Centre for Mental Health & Brain Injury
403-783-6012 • www.sonriseponoka.com
ST. AUGUSTINE CATHOLIC CHURCH Fr. Chris Gnanaprakasam, S.A.C. Mass Times: 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 9:00 a.m. Sunday
5113 - 52 Ave., Ponoka, T4J 1H6 403-783-4048 stachurch@shaw.ca
ST. MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH Ven. Michael Sung Rev. Jessie Pei, Rev. Doreen Scott 5120 - 49 Ave. Ponoka
403-783-4329
Sunday Service: Holy Eucharist 10 a.m. www.stmarysanglicanponoka.com
TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 5501 - 54 Ave. Ponoka 403-783-4141 Sunday Service: 10:30am Sunday School: 10:30am Pastor Tim Graff • trinityponoka.ca
ZION CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Pastor Fred Knip 9 miles east on Hwy 53 (403) 782-9877 Jr. Church during service for children Sunday Service 9:30 am
Sonrise Christian Reformed Church
we were talking about were important to them also. We have about 14 churches in Ponoka and in some form or other, we all hold the same things dear. And that was the wonderfully important moment. In spite of our divisions and sometimes petty arguments, we, who claim to follow Christ, are more the same than different. So, while having so many denominations may be understandable, it isn’t the best evidence of one consistent theme of scripture. In the letter to the ancient church in Ephesus, we read these words, “I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2) Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3) Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4) There is one body and one Spirit— just as you were called to one hope when you
Who’s who in your school division
PONOKA UNITED CHURCH Minister: Beatrix Schirner
William Delleman
were called— 5) one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6) one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”(Eph 4.1-6). The truth is that Christians of all brands are united, one, not because we suddenly discovered it during a lunch time devotion. No, Christians are one because of something that God has chosen to do and done. In Christ Jesus, there is only one Church, even while there are many churches. Our unity is a reality to be explored together and then acted out in this community where we have been placed. Acted out in humility, gentleness, patience and love. Just as the text says, so that in ways that might surprise us, God’s presence is known and seen by more people all the time. We ended our devotion with prayer for those who volunteer and the organizations they serve. And as we did that it occurred to me that God’s presence is very real here in Ponoka. Not just in the church buildings, but in office buildings and on the street as well. I’m looking forward to the Week of Prayer 2015 already. If you didn’t this year, maybe remember to sit in when the opportunity comes again or at some of our other shared events. The Walk of The Cross on Good Friday or the Community Church service in August or whatever other event comes by. Each of those events is another opportunity to listen, share and celebrate that what unites us is always bigger than what might try to divide.
Dan Svitich Submitted
for developing the goals and policies that guide and direct a school From the outside looking in, it division or district as they serve their can be difficult to know where to students. Trustees represent their loturn for specific needs or informa- cal community at the school board tion in your child’s school or school table, making the needs of their division. As we begin a new year, residents known, and ensuring their we wanted to take the opportunity voices are heard and their values are to highlight some of the main roles expressed during the decision-making process. STAR Catholic Schools’ within a school division, to make it trustees also have the added responeasier to understand who is responsibility and privilege of ensuring the sible for which functions. faith needs of their communities and Functioning at a division level, our students are met, and that those school board trustees are elected important aspects of our schools into their positions by residents in continue to be top priorities. their community who have voted for Reporting directly to the board them. A school board is responsible of trustees, a school division superintendent acts as the CEO of the PONOKA RISING organization, ensuring will of the board SUN CLUBHOUSE the is communicated to administrative, teach-
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ing and support staff, that the overall organization remains financially viable, and that the division is effectively serving its many stakeholders. The superintendent is the day-to-day ‘face’ and administrator, representing their school division as they build relationships with community partners and colleagues. All division staff are ultimately accountable to the superintendent, who in turn, is accountable to the board for the conduct and operation of the division. A school principal is the senior administrator at the school level and they wear many hats. All school staff, from teachers and educational assistants, to custodial staff, report directly to the principal. While teachers are generally the main parental contact for their child, the principal is often directly involved in parent interactions, ensuring the needs of their school families are met. For more information on STAR Catholic School Division, our Board of Trustees, our faith development programs, or job opportunities with our Division, visit www.starcatholic.ab.ca. Dan Svitich dan.svitich@starcatholic.ab.ca is a Ponoka Trustee on the STAR Catholic Schools Division Board. STAR Catholic Schools has more than 3,300 students in 10 schools located in Beaumont, Drayton Valley, Leduc, Lacombe, Ponoka and Wetaskiwin. Learn more at www.starcatholic. ab.ca
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Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 5
Reflections of Ponoka Saluting our community’s 20th century landmarks! By Mike Rainone for the News It was in the late 1990’s that the Ponoka Town Council entered into a partnership with the Alberta Historical Foundation to introduce a vigorous and exciting downtown ‘Main Street Project’ that would identify and set out to enhance and restore some of our communities most historic buildings and sights. Fraser Shaw was named as the Co-ordinator of the ongoing project, with committee members including Barb Greshner, Marnie Wilkins, Dave Spink, Merle McMillen, Earl Roberts, Bob Taylor, and the late Doug Nelson. Working closely with the Ponoka Town Council and the community, the dedicated group searched through photographs and information at our Fort Ostell Museum, the Provincial Archives, and the Glenbow archives to identify historic buildings and sights in the community that would qualify for the energetic program. Plans discussed the opportunity to not only recognize the importance of these historic treasures to the early progress and establishment of our town, but to also possibly work closely with the owners to assist with the funding of the revitalization of their longstanding architecture and features. The buildings and sights identified in the early stages of Ponoka Mainstreet program included: Siding 14 (Canadian Pacific Railway), The Railway Depot, Canadian Pacific Railway dam on the Battle River, early Grain Elevators, Ponoka Plaza, Royal Hotel, Bank of Commerce, Thomson’s Grocery, Lux and Stephen’s Garage, Capital Theatre,
Allan’s Furniture, Jack’s Men’s Wear, Brody’s, a Ladies Wear Shop, Ponoka Radio Electric, F.E. Algar Building, Ponoka Meat Market, Imperial Bank, Robert’s Equipment Dealership, Maple Leaf Garage, Ponoka Herald, Community Rest Room, Cold Storage Service, the Medical Art’s Building, Chipman Avenue, Bird Drug Company, Leland Hotel, Green’s Gents Furnishers, Thirsk’s 5 cent to $1.00 store, the Club Cafe, Bill’s Billiard Hall, the Sweet Block, Cash Foods, Ranks Drug’s, Alberta Treasury Branch, the old Town Hall, the old County office, Field’s Motors, Baptist Church, Bowker Funeral Home, Ponoka Provincial Building, Ponoka Jubilee Library, Central Alberta Dairy Pool, the old Ponoka General Hospital, the Brekke house, the Red Brick School, the Riverside Store, the Ponoka Stampede, Vold-Jones-Vold Auction, Fort Ostell Museum, Calgary/Edmonton trail, the Alberta Hospital, several stages of aerial photographs, and more to be added later. The Ponoka News has already featured some of our cherished historic sites in past editions of Remember When? and Reflections and we will continue to show you their unique early features, their owners and staff, and their great and exciting stories from in and around our community over the past century and counting. F.E. Algar Building A young and enterprising Frederic Algar arrived in the Ponoka Village sight in 1895, and established his first store in the C.P.R. (Siding 14) Railway depot. Doing a brisk business supplying new settlers with their supplies, Algar expanded in January 1896 to a nearby log building at the cor-
Remember when
Photo courtesy of Rimoka Foundation
The Rimoka Golden Leisure Lodge at 5600-57th avenue Ponoka was officially opened on Wednesday-November 9, 1960 with a colorful ceremony featuring Premier Manning and local M.L.A. Glen Johnston. Our Rimoka Housing Foundation has greatly expanded over the years, including Legacy Place, and has been the friendly and comfortable home of many Town and County seniors for over 53 years. Some of the initial Rimoka Lodge staff members shown in the photo are, left to right: back row: Annie Carswell, and Ann Peterson, while seated in front are Senia Hanson, the first Matron Iona Foell, and custodian Danford Foell.
ner of Railways street and 51st Avenue. This building burned down in 1902 and was replaced by a palatial two-story structure with tin siding. Unfortunately this popular store also burned 12 years later, and the dedicated entrepreneur went to work on his third and last store, a sturdy brick structure, which Photos courtesy of Fort Ostell Museum was completed in 1914. Just F.E. Algar building on Railway Street afbehind the Algar Store was the ter 1997 Main street project makeover! ‘sugar shack’, a tiny building where hundreds of sacks of sugar and other goods were delivered by the dray man Dick Slater and stored for future distribution. Both of these structures still remain in the same location to this very day, have been refurbished, and have the information plaque of the ‘Main Street Project’ next to the front door, which The Sweet Block on Chipman Avenue outlines their proud and very was built in 1937 by former Ponoka Mayor Don Sweet, and is also one of our colorful history. Now a designated historic designated historical buildings! resource, the Algar building features front and rear storefronts with large display windows architect was inspired by the streamand metal cornices. Found inside line forms of cars and planes, and the are high metal-clad ceilings, and a unique style is evident in the curving the rear of the store, a little office entryway and the horizontal stucco once known to the employees as ‘speed lines.” the ‘eagle’s nest’, which overlooked The building, which also featured the interior. Behind it is a huge steel apartments upstairs, was earlier ocvault where valuable muskrat firs cupied by Jacques Jewelry, as well as were stored. In 1944, after 49 years a beauty parlor run by Mrs. Sweet. of business in Ponoka, Mr. Algar Later businesses included: the sold the building to Abe Abousafy Ponoka News and Advertiser, a bus of Wetaskiwin, who operated under depot and cafe operated by Lee and that name for another decade. Later Whitman, the offices of Jones Agenowned by Elmer and Esther Predi- cies Insurance, and a Shoe Shack. ger (Uncle Elmer’s Bike and Tackle The gap between this building and Shop), the building was restored in its neighbour was used to reach the 1996-7 during the Main street pro- many back alley businesses, and gram. one of these Andy ‘Gump’ LundThe Sweet Block gren’s tailor shop, dates back to the Built in 1937 by Don Sweet, one 1930’s and still remains. Also a parof Ponoka’s most colorful Mayors, ticipant in the Ponoka Mainstreet this stucco building reflects the in- Project, some of the most recent fluence of the Moderne style almost tenants include: Frenette Chiropraca decade before it became fashion- tic, Cranberry Lane, and Diversified able in other Alberta towns! The Financial.
Page 6 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
Opinion Growth: A curse or a blessing It was early 1980’s needed to pop them up when US President Ronwith energy and agriald Reagan and British culture (both of which Prime Minister Margaret Alberta is blessed with) Thatcher started to blow being seen as the only the wind of a new type bets sure to make monof Conservatism, a wind ey, or at least not to lose that ultimately brought it. down not only the BerSo what does it all lin Wall, but also the have to do with small rule of the Soviet Comtown Alberta? munist Party in Moscow That sooner or later, Mustafa Eric towards the end of that small town Alberta will Editor decade, ushering in a pehave to get out of its riod of radical changes comfort zone and deal in many walks of life with the challenges and troubles of throughout the world in the process of growth. what is called globalization. You may have read in the edition With the downfall of its main rival the week before last how the Wolf ideology, which, at least, purported to Creek School Board and administrabe egalitarian, free market capitalism tors at Blackfalds schools are trying to found vast new territories to foray into, cope with a sudden rise in the number rendering the movement of capital, of students they have to serve without goods, people and ideas a lot freer than lowering the quality of education they it was until then. have to provide. In the new era of liberalism, while And last week, the county’s apfreedoms were welcomed and empeal board rejected once and for all braced, something got lost without a request for permission for a major being noticed at all: due diligence in medical opium growth operation in distribution of wealth. Ponoka county (see our story on page The neo-liberal economic policies introduced by Reaganomics and 14). Yet, as the growth in both energy Thatcherite version of free market allowed the concept of “development”, and agriculture sectors is bound to actaken to mean an equitable distribution celerate with an ever increasing pace, of growth to all sections of the society, Alberta’s resources will continue to be to be dumped and replaced by pure tapped with greater pressure for more profits. “growth”. Sooner rather than later, more inThen the concept of growth, itself, has undergone a fundamental change dustrialized agriculture, possibly with during the Bill Clinton era, when the more genetic modification modalities, figures showing the profits in the books will knock on the door to produce became more important then how those higher yields to feed more people, esfigures were achieved; CEOs, board pecially those in the emerging markets members, executives who managed (understand mainly China) and more to rake more profits convinced the pipelines will be built (regardless of shareholders that they deserved bigger the trampled treaty rights of First Nabonuses; bigger bonuses meant bigger tions and environmental concerns of risk taking, which brought about more scientists or activists) to carry bitumen financial game playing. In the process from northern Alberta to oil-thirsty of profit maximizing, job creation was economies around the Pacific Rim and put on the backburner as equities came to the south of the border. The question is how complaunder focus as the main source of revcent Albertans (and Canadians at a enues. Now financial bubbles are balloon- wider platform) are going to allow ing everywhere with just one catalyst themselves to be in the process.
Send us your letters The Ponoka News welcomes letters to the Editor, especially those dealing with topical or local issues. Letters should be a maximum of 300 words in length and must have the writer’s signature over printed name, along with the writer’s address and telephone number. The address and telephone number will not be printed. This newspaper reserves the right to edit letters for length and legal considerations. Deadline is noon the Thursday prior to publication. Send your letter to: The Editor, Ponoka News, 5019A Chipman Ave., Box 4217, Ponoka, AB T4J 1R6 or email: editorial@ ponokanews.com
PONOKA
A policy that should cease
Letter confirms what government has denied Dear Editor, Re: “MLA’s claims not totally correct” I would like to take this opportunity to respond to Greg Workun’s letter of last week that discussed AHS’s 100km rule for seniors’ placement also known as the divorce-by-nursing home policy. Mr. Workun takes me to task for claiming Wildrose managed to get the government to end the 100Km policy. He told us that in his professional experience, the government has just quietly replaced the 100 km rule with an 80Km rule. His information is distressing to hear confirmed. In the Legislature, the Health Minister has frequently declared that the 100Km policy had been rescinded and that there is no rule to force seniors to accept placements that are far away from their spouses, friends and loved ones. Wildrose MLA Kerry Towle posed a specific question to the minister on this topic on Novem-
ber 25. The minister assured that “the hundred-kilometre policy that Alberta Health Services had in effect was clearly rescinded.” He assured us that “there was no policy in effect in Alberta today that requires anyone to accept a continuing care placement within a hundred-kilometre radius of his or her community.” I want to thank Mr. Workun for his brave letter. With his letter, we finally have a health worker confirming what the government has so far denied – that they only reduced the amount by which it can split apart married couples to 80 km and have not definitively ended the policy as they promised was already accomplished. Wildrose cares about the quality of life for seniors in longterm care. Wildrose will continue to hold this government to account for breaking their promise to definitively end the divorceby-nursing home policy and to continue to press for it to end. MLA Rod Fox
Dear Editor, As the wife of a patient in a geriatric unit of the Centennial Centre in Ponoka, I would like to comment regarding the letter in the Jan 22nd edition of the Ponoka News written by Greg Workun. My husband is now eligible for placement at a Long Term Care Institution. I am voicing my strong opposition to his being placed outside of the Ponoka community, in which we have lived for many years. Even though we can no longer maintain a close marriage tie due to his early onset Alzheimer’s, I feel I should be able to visit him as often as possible in order to feed and comfort him. This would be impossible if he was placed as far away as 80 km. My own health and the sometimes hazardous weather conditions would make it difficult to drive to other communities. THIS IS A GOVERNMENT POLICY WHICH SHOULD CEASE!!!!!! Maxine Jonson Ponoka
News Judy Dick Manager
Mustafa Eric Editor
Jeff Heyden-Kaye Reporter
Amelia Naismith Reporter
Karen Douglass Susan Whitecotton Sales Administration
5019A Chipman Ave., Box 4217, Ponoka, AB. T4J 1R6 manager@ponokanews.com editorial@ponokanews.com reporter@ponokanews.com rovingreporter@ponokanews.com sales@ponokanews.com admin@ponokanews.com Phone: 403.783.3311 Fax: 403.783.6300 Email: editorial@ponokanews.com All editorial content, advertising content and concepts are protected by copyright. Unauthorized use is forbidden. Published every Wednesday by PNG Prairie Newspaper Group in community with: Regional Publisher, Fred Gorman
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 7
County approached for soccer pitch improvements By Amelia Naismith Ponoka Minor Soccer Association has hosted provincials twice in the past few years, and while representatives of the association say the events went well, they believe with better fields, the entire season could be improved for Ponoka’s 300-plus players. Shawna Pearman and Lonny Behm of Ponoka Minor Soccer Association asked Ponoka County councillors at their Jan. 21 meeting if the county would be able to provide services rather than monetary funds to help improve the town’s soccer fields. Services would include grating and providing available topsoil or black dirt. “We don’t have sufficient fields, we’ve lost fields,” said Pearman. Ponoka Minor Soccer has already met with town officials, including Mayor Rick Bonnett and Wes Amendt, director of community services, who’ve allocated $15,000 to upgrade the two designated fields in the 100-year flood area behind the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre. “But currently the grass isn’t very good and there’s a huge hump in it,” said Pearman. To provide sod for both fields would cost $25,000 and they’d be taken out of commission for one season. Pearman says, while the association is looking for aid, it’s not only up to others and they’ll have to put forth their own fundraising efforts as well. She feels the ideal situation, especially for big tournaments such as provincials, would be to have a number of well-groomed fields in a concentrated area, to cut down on confusion and time moving players, equipment and officials between fields. “What our whole purpose has been is to get contained two, three, four fields in one site.” If the two fields behind the hospital are upgraded, and with the Ponoka Secondary Campus in close vicinity, that setup would be more what Pearman and Behm are wanting. However, parking at the two
fields near the Hospital and Care Centre is minuscule and Pearman says people would be encouraged to park at the Secondary Campus. Now, soccer is also being played on a field near the Centennial Centre and another near the Scout Hall, and neither impresses the two representatives. In the past, the field behind the Centennial Centre posed issues, as the nets needed to be set up and taken down after every game. While that’s no longer the case, Behm still isn’t happy. “It’s not an ideal field.” The field near the Scout Hall also sports a humped ground and isn’t large enough for games over a U-12 level. Behm says twisted ankles and other injuries are a concern due to the unevenness of the ground. “The high school is the best field that we have but we only have one of those,” said Pearman. Another issue at provincials time emerged after the association was denied access to use the Secondary Campus’s football field despite the fact that soccer and football fields are sometimes jointly used elsewhere. Pearman named Red Deer and Edmonton fields and fields of the Canada Summer Games. “We approached them last year for provincials and we were turned down,” said Pearman. “It’s a frustrating point, it’s very frustrating for us . . . I talked to Ian Rawlinson in great length about it and could not make it,” she added. “I guess my only question is how does it work into the long range plan of the town’s planning on developing a megafacility?” questioned Coun. Doug Weir. Coun. Mark Matejka countered the completion of such a building could be 25 years County CAO Charlie Cutforth said the county could look at doing dirt work, although the fields would have to be surveyed so the drainage could be done properly. “Our stuff is big, we don’t have a lot of finishing equipment . . . The only thing that I see that we might need help with is the final grating.”
Letters to the editor are appreciated. Contact us at 403-783-3311 editorial@ponokanews.com
Town Times
Come visit us: 5102 -48 Avenue; Ponoka, AB T4J 1P7 Phone: 403-783-4431 Fax: 403-783-6745 Email: town@ponoka.org Or Check us out Online: www.ponoka.ca
NOTICES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS New Home Buyer Protection Act The New Home Buyer Protection Act (NHBPA) will come into force effective February 1, 2014 as part of the Government of Alberta’s ongoing commitment to improving consumer protection, recourse options and builder accountability for new homes built in Alberta. Builders or new homeowners who have questions or want more details can refer to the Municipal Affairs’ website. www.municipalaffairs.alberta.ca/NHBP or contact Municipal Affairs at 1.866.421.6929.
Snow Load Advisory In accordance with the Alberta Building Code; the design snow load on a roof in the central Alberta area would equate to either 16 inches of dry pack snow maximum depth, or 12 inches of very wet snow, maximum depth. Considering that this winter is only half over and a lot of roofs have this much snow already accumulated on them, it is advisable that the snow on the roof be removed at this time so that any further snow accumulation will not have the possibility of exceeding the design snow load as stated in the Alberta building code.
Last Call: Business Licenses Are Now Due! The 2014 Business License Renewal Notices have been sent out and are due no later than the close of business on January 31, 2014. Inquiries can be directed to 403.783.0119.
Waste Transfer Station Hours Tuesday through Saturday – 10 am to 4 pm **There is a minimum tipping fee of $8.00 per visit.** There is no charge for compostable materials (grass clippings, garden waste, leaves, branches) or tires. Call 403-783-8328 for more information.
Christmas Tree Pickup Pick up of Christmas trees was delayed due to large volumes of snow received. Please leave your tree out, and it will be picked up as time and staff permit. Thank you for your patience
.
EVENTS AND RECREATION Becoming a Community Builder Celebration & Visit with Ian Hill Please join us at the Kinsmen Centre Friday, February 7th from 11:30 am -1:30pm (light lunch provided).
Employment Opportunities Qualified Lifeguards and Swimming Instructors Rink Attendant (PT/Seasonal): For the 2014 ice skating season at the Arena Complex. Hours of work will be primarily evenings and weekends. Application forms are available at www.ponoka.ca. Submit your application to the Town Office at 5102-48 Avenue or email HR@ponoka.org.
February Winter Walk Challenge! Winter Walk Day is Wednesday, February 5th, 2014. FCSS is coordinating the walk starting at 10:30 am at Rimoka Lodge. To register, call the FCSS office at 403.783.4462. Join Ponoka’s group today and join the fun!
Recreation Facilities Schedule is On-line Check it out at www.ponoka.ca and click on ‘Recreation in Ponoka’.
Aquaplex Update STAT Swim Feb 17th, 2 – 4pm family swim, 4 – 6pm public swim, families are ½ price; PD Day swim Feb 20 & 21 1-3pm
Public Skating: Proudly sponsored by Ponoka Lions Monday - Thursday: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday: 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm **Shinny Hockey on Weekdays only** The outdoor rink is open for use; please use with caution as ice conditions my change due to warm temperatures
COUNCIL UPDATES & BYLAW INFO Next Town Council Meetings February 11 & 25, 2014 @ 7 pm Visit our website www.ponoka.ca for copy of the agenda.
DID YOU KNOW...? Ice removal is the responsibility of the resident and/or property owner. The warm weather has created icy conditions in many areas. The Town asks that residents remove ice build-up from their sidewalks and apply ice-melt as required.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “Nothing is particularly hard, if you divide it into small steps” ~ Henry Ford
Page 8 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
Ponoka Chamber sees increase in earnings By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
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Wetaskiwin MP Blaine Calkins officiated the swearing in of Jim Hamilton, Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce president. The chamber held its AGM Jan. 21. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
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There were some changes to the executive lineup of the Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce this year. The group held its annual general meeting Jan. 21 at the Kinsmen Community Centre and two events over the year stand out for the chamber; the Trade Fair and the Business Awards Gala. The fair earned $45,385, with expenses of $31,544 and the awards night earned $19,539, with expenses of $11,040. While the earnings of those two events increased, the chamber also had other expenses; this brought its total net income of 2013 at -$93.94. Cash assets are sitting well however, with $24,890 in the chequing account and $36,860 in a GIC savings account. Executive manager Les Jaster said the GIC fund is there as a reserve for emergencies. “We just keep investing interest back into the GIC,” explained Jaster. “That is a rainy day fund.” “It was actually a real good year for us,” he added. Two new people have joined the executive to help co-ordinate the affairs of the chamber, Cindy Gabert and Justin Graham are both new to the position. The chamber executive is comprised of chamber president Jim Hamilton, in his second year, Inger Laing as vicepresident and Pam Baron as treasurer. There are six other directors who complement the executive: Judy Dick, Julie Evans, Melodie Helm, Dan Lea, Andrew Middleton and Theresa Turner. Hamilton said he wanted to hear from chamber members. “Tell us, your board of the chamber, what we’re not doing and what you would like us to do.” Despite no comments from members, Hamilton feels it was important to give people an opportunity to speak up, but he also feels the board is operating well. Wetaskiwin MP Blain Calkins also attended the meeting. Chamber briefs The chamber received a request from one member to host a survey on the Business Hours Bylaw that restricts the hours liquor can be sold at stores and off-sales establishments. Hamilton said one business has closed since the bylaw was passed last year and town councillors will be assessing the bylaw in a Feb. 11 meeting. He said the chamber hosted a Monkey Survey last year but the results were almost inconclusive. “It was slightly in favour of not having the bylaw…But it was virtually a 50/50 vote.” Results from the new survey will be passed on to council. Chamber bylaws to be reviewed The last time the Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce reviewed its bylaws was many years ago. “Our bylaws basically came over sometime in the Arc and basically have never been looked at since then,” joked Hamilton. He and Jaster have started the process of reviewing the chamber’s rules but, “It’s a huge undertaking. Even to change the bylaws, we have nothing in there to change the bylaws.” The Board Trade Act will be used to assist with changing the bylaws and Hamilton asked members to provide their feedback on some of those rules. Jaster, Hamilton, past-president Greg Braat and director Dan Lea have formed a committee to review them. Acknowledging business award winners Past winners of the Chamber Business Awards will soon have their names recognized for posterity. The chamber will have plaques made up for the different categories such as the Small and Large Business Awards. Plaques will have winners’ names engraved on plates on these plaques, explained Hamilton. These plaques will be on displ;ay at the Chamber office. Passport to Christmas popular with Ponokans The chamber’s Passport to Christmas program, which promotes shopping in Ponoka, saw an increase of people using local businesses. There were 6,189 passports handed in for 2013, up 433 from 2012, explained Hamilton. “That relates back to $1.8 million being spent in Ponoka that people used the passports for.” Plans for the trade fair Last year the farmer’s market was open in the small rink of the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex, alongside the chamber’s trade fair. This year the market will not be part of the fair. Hamilton said the chamber will offer tables at a low rate, to entice vendors similar to those found at the farmer’s market. The 2014 trade fair is planned for April 25 to 26.
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 9
New course opens up opportunities for guaranteed employment for First Nations youth
Submitted photo
to trades and hands on experience with carpentry, electrical, steamfitter/pipefitter, welding and heavy equipment technician programs.” “They will have exposure to each of these (trades) for three weeks and then select which trades they want to specialize in.” Trent Keough, President and CEO of Portage Collage said they were experienced in training individuals coming from underrepresented groups and that they had previously worked with First Nations and Métis in similar projects. “But this is a unique program that we hope we can actually replicate and bring what we learn from this project to other projects.” Classroom Connections have agreements in place with several companies, including Galloway of Ponoka, to employ the graduates of the program.
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A new initiative implemented under the Classroom Connections program promises to open up a new path for First Nations youth to have permanent employment as journeymen following an intensive training schedule implemented in cooperation with Portage College. Representatives of Samson Cree Nation, Classroom Connections and Portage College signed a letter of agreement on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at the offices of the Samson Cree Band, allowing the third phase of the program to get underway in March . The program is funded primarily by the federal government with the provincial government’s Human Services also contributing with funding support. Heather MacTaggart: Executive Director of Classroom Connections, creator of the “Change it Up” program said the agreement was part of the two programs they were running with Samson Cree nation, one is “Change it up Entrepreneur” and “Change it up Trades”. While the first one builds up skills among First Nations members to start and/or operate businesses, the second one allows interested youth to acquire trade skills. “As you know there is huge shortage of skilled trades workers in Alberta because of the growing economy and the energy sector, and there is also a very large pool of unemployed Aboriginal people,” MacTaggart said. “So what ‘Change it up Trades’ is all about is trying to bridge that gap.” “The direct purpose of the scheme is to get more First Nations people into the apprenticeship track of the skilled trades, so it is not just to get work, not just to start a job as a worker, but to become a journeyman, a skilled trade person,” according to MacTaggart. The First Nations youth who will benefit from the program have already spent about seven months with the Change it up to be brought up “socially and academically” to the level that they need to be at to write the trade entrance exams. Stu Leitch, Director of Community and Industry Training Initiatives at Portage College, said the next four months starting in March would allow the youth to select and specialize in the trade they would want to pursue. “They will be introduced to five different trades over that period and then they will be writing their trade entrance exams to qualify for those trades and start work with the group to assist them to get employment.” “It is a combination of more math and science and exposure
Page 10 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
Bus driver drought continues for Wolf Creek By Amelia Naismith Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS) district is suffering from an ongoing shortage of bus drivers and substitutes and, despite long-term advertisement of the open positions, the situation doesn’t seem to be getting better. “We don’t have any spares in areas around Ponoka,” said division secretary-treasurer Joe Henderson. WCPS transportation manager John Blood says the division just recruited a few more drivers in Lacombe, but Ponoka is still in need. “Ponoka seems to be a problem area.” All of Ponoka’s fixed routes (meaning full-time driver positions) are covered with a small number available but Blood says more are needed. “Ultimately our goal is to recruit from across the whole division,” he added. When in need, WCPS is able to pull spare drivers from other areas to cover a route.
ing shift, or early retirement didn’t suit them. “And then there are ones who love the kids. They love it. They develop relationships with the children. It’s just like having their own children in a way.” Blood says some drivers have held the same route for more than 12 years, they begin picking a child up in kindergarten and send them off as they graduate high school. The division is also looking at an array of different solutions to try and attract a diverse pool of applicants. For the spring, WCPS is developing a recruitment campaign and presentation targeting anyone interested in taking the job, but with an emphasis on stay-at-home moms.
“They tend not to move around a lot . . . We think they’ll give us the most stable work force,” said Blood. He feels employing the mothers would be a winwin situation. WCPS would accumulate the drivers they need and stay-at-home moms would be working convenient hours where snow days, service days and summer holidays would be time off work, alleviating child care issues. The mothers would also be able to bring their children on route with them, in an approved child seat with proper restraints and a waiver signed by the parent. Blood has already checked the proposal with the division’s insurer and it’s allowed by the Alberta Transportation code.
John Blood
“Ponoka seems to be a problem area.” John Blood The situation isn’t unique to WCPS, as Henderson says many school divisions around Alberta have the same problem. “I know we’ve struggled for spares in the last couple of years.” “We recognize there’s a lot of competing interests for drivers,” added Henderson, who feels the there is already a shortage in the labour market without the specific hours and training needs for the job continuing to deter possible applicants. “Coming to Alberta from outside, I found oil and gas rules this province . . .and consequently we have a difficult time recruiting,” said Blood. Many of the division’s remaining drivers are older than 65 and each year they have to reapply to pass a medical, successfully renew their license and, if they’re in good standing with the division, reapply for the position to remain on the roster. Despite the problem, Henderson isn’t concerned drivers are going to begin leaving or retiring faster than new ones can be brought in. “There’s a general shortage and the ones we have are very loyal.” Blood does see, however, the aging population of drivers as a concern. “We may, just like any other industry, have a sudden influx of retirements. That is a concern.” With a lack of substitutes, the division is finding it harder to always meet the needs of current drivers. “When a driver needs time off, it can’t always be granted or given,” said Henderson. However, there are times when time off is unavoidable. In the past couple of years, Henderson says there have been times when buses couldn’t run their regular route, were late, or other drivers had to pull double routes to get the students to and from school. If the lack of spare drivers isn’t alleviated, Blood says long-term effects could include some routes being canceled or two that run close together becoming amalgamated. WCPS is willing to train those wanting the position as well as help them get the necessary licensing and provide S Endorsement training. “We are open to people interested in coming to work for us,” said Henderson. Blood says those interested usually enter the division as a spare driver and work their way up to full-time. “We have a pool of spares, and as a fixed route (driver) retires or moves to something else they become available to spare drivers.” Not everyone, says Blood, enjoys the split shifts and work of a bus driver. “But bare in mind some people like that. They work a second job or they’re farmers.” He says others are just looking to keep social, as many of the drivers gather for coffee after the morn-
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Page 12 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
St. Augustine students learn of hazards on the farm By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye Students at St. Augustine Catholic School learned valuable farm safety tips last week. From grades K to Grade 6, young children were given important tips on safety while working or playing on the farm by Carol Senz, a safety instructor with an organization called the Farm Safety Centre. She and seven other instructors tour rural Alberta schools with the goal of keeping farm families safe. During one presentation, a Grade 5 class played a game called Don’t Press Your Luck. Senz answered different farm safety related questions and in turn won points. While the points were not important, knowledge of the risks are. Senz said accidents with farm equipment do not just occur with tractors. Risks can involve riding a snowmobile, a quad, and even a horse. Senz said the number of farm vehicle rollovers increases in the summer when workers are out more. Sometimes the front wheel of a tractor may hit a hole or ride-on lawn mowers may flip if they are on too steep of a hill. Another issue for ATV riders is the risk of head injuries; Senz said the risk of head injury is six times greater without a helmet. “When people know this, why do they still not wear helmets?” she asked. One student suggested those who use quads do not think it is cool to wear a helmet. Another student made the observation that sometimes doing farm chores becomes routine and people can become relaxed and neglect safety. Senz agreed. “Now they think, ‘I can never get hurt that way.’” Sometimes adding a passenger to one-seat vehicles or two people to a horse is even more dangerous. The risk increases as two riders may make the ride imbalanced. When climbing a hill, a quad can become back heavy or when going down a hill with a second person the front of the quad can become front heavy. Carol Senz, instructor with the Farm Safety Centre, plays a fun game on farm safety with students Senz said kids may want to try out their skills on bigger equipment as well at St. Augustine Catholic School Jan. 23. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye but advises against this. “Ride within your ability.” These same rules apply with horses, she added. Senz has been riding horses for 20 years but she knows her limitations and suggests kids should only ride a bigger or faster horse when they have the experience and size. “I know I don’t have the ability to get on every horse,” said Senz. Riding quads and snowmobiles should also be done once a person’s abilities have improved, she added. “You’ve gotta take your time to start with the small quads.” And while having a horse can be a rewarding experience, Senz said in the last 20 years, the majority of agricultural related deaths in children have involved horses. She advised kids wear the proper equipment and gain horse-riding experience before moving up to a larger horse. Most of the students who live on a farm or acreage said they have seen or encountered farm accidents. Senz hopes by speaking with younger children, a new generation of farmers will be able to minimize the risks. Other lessons to each group of students according to grades included: • Kindergarten: Passenger run-over risks • Grade 1: Bystander run-over risks • Grade 2: Rural drowning hazards • Grade 4: Increased on-farm involvement • Grade 5: Rider related falls and collisions • Grade 6: ATV and animal involvement Alberta Farm Safety receives funding from counties around Alberta, and from private and cor4205 64 St. 403-783-8382 porate donations.
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Page 14 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
County-based medical marijuana appeal denied By Amelia Naismith The land use appeal of Canruderal Inc., a commercial medical marijuana operation hoping to set up shop in Ponoka County, was once again denied, this time by the county’s appeal board. It was a 4-1 vote to uphold the previous decision made by Thomas Webber, development officer, at the initial hearing on Nov. 22, 2013. At the first hearing, the board received 16 letters of opposition and two letters of support. “Basically, as the development officer, with those kind of results I’m duty-bound to refuse the application,” said Webber at the appeal, explaining as to why the application had been declined once before. The five members of the appeal board — Nancy Hartford, Bryce Liddle, Brice Milne, Jess Hudson and John Busaan — deliberated for three hours on the matter. They carefully took into account the position of the appellant and senior owner of the company, Shaun Howell, as well as the many concerns of the unhappy landowners surrounding the proposed site, which lies west of Ponoka. In the end, the appeal board was acutely aware and affected by their own concerns of the unknown, says board secretary Charlie Cutforth. “I think the real concern there is there’s no track record to fairly judge if there’s a security concern.” This commercial operation would be the first of its kind in Alberta and the county’s bylaws were not equipped to service the request, forcing the appeal board to label it a discretionary use. Cutforth feels, when doubts were raised on the suitability of allowing a discretionary use, coupled with the other concerns, it became too much to approve. The majority of the appeal board agreed the level of doubt within the community and raised many other concerns and objections to the location, because the site would have been 23km away from Ponoka, RCMP and fire department. “If that’s considered too far for immediate response, so be it,” said Cutforth. In the future, the county will have to address this kind of issues and the direction of the bylaws in conjunction with other counties, says Cutforth. He also feels it will be a major topic at the spring conference of Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties. At the hearing, Howell gave an in-depth presentation of his vision, business goals and practices, as well as security measures and what benefits he felt his operation would bring to the community. Had Howell’s request been approved, he would have been mandated to use the buildings already onsite, a shed and a steel Quonset. The few other commercial operations around Canada are deemed closely monitored by Health Canada, and Howell’s would have been no exception. Howell explained to the appeal board and landowners that if there were to be a diversion or suspected diversion of the marijuana the operation would be immediately shutdown. “Our entire operation, interior, exterior, is monitored.” The monitoring would have been constant, 24 hours a day every day of the year. Canruderal would have been required to keep each recording for two years, which, at the request of Health Canada, would have had to be produced for viewing on random demand. If a gap in the recording was found, the company would have been shut down. A breakin would also result in shutting down. Howell isn’t yet in possession of a license to operate a commercial medical marijuana business, since a stipulation is a license must be attached to a location, but he’s in that process, too, with Health Canada. In order to get this far in the process, Howell also had to pass a background check. He had a mug shot taken and fingerprints collected and passed through CESIS (Executive Committee for Intelligence and Security Services), RCMP, INTERPOL,
members are brought on site in secure vans. We remove their cell phones from them.” After the work is done staff are put back in the van and taken to a pick-up point outside and away from the community. However, later in his presentation, Howell said Canada Post indicated they might make an exception to the pick up rule, resulting in one to two pickups per month. The landowners were more concerned about the unwanted guests they felt the operation would attract, and with the heavy security measures, they believed discouraged criminals would turn to the less protected farms to vandalize and loot if they couldn’t reach the marijuana. “By protecting his operation Mr. Howell is putting the rest of us at a greater risk,” said Sachs. “One of the main concerns is the security and I know you say you’ll have fantastic security, good for you . . . Who’s going to pay for my security of my family and my property,” added Karen Street. The site was also near Crestomere School, which was a concern mentioned by multiple people in attendance, as at least one bus would drive by the site twice per day. “That’s the other thing, it’s not a school where the police are two minutes away,” said Raugust. She feels such an operation should be located closer to an urban centre where emergency services could access it faster. Sachs believes the business is not suitable for any rural community because of the criminal draw and distance from the RCMP. “We propose that this facility should be situated in an industrial area of a town so that the police and firefighters can immediately respond to any disruption.” Landowners also felt Howell should have chosen a location closer to his home, which is two hours south of
FBI and CIA databases. Ponoka Fire Department and RCMP detachment were also aware of Howell’s intent. “Currently, we have no concerns raised by the RCMP,” Howell said. This wasn’t the case, however, with the approximately 35 nearby landowners who attended the session. They had many concerns, the most common revolving around security measures, increased traffic and medical marijuana staffing and the operations location. “Security wise, this is a major concern for a lot of people . . . Health Canada also has the same concerns. There’s been a lot of problems with the previous regime, that’s why we’re moving to the new regime. And that has necessitated a lot of things we have to do,” said Howell. The operation is mandated to have multiple levels of security measures. In place would have been intrusion detection systems with independent backup systems, a monitoring system that would notify proper authorities if any systems were tampered with, fencing, bollards, a double gate system, an 8,000 lb safe and a Sea-Can trailer that would be parked inside the Quonset for storage and another layer of protection. “We have some criminals. We have people in this community who are going around, who are stealing quads, who are dumping them in ponds . . . We have criminals, they know where this operation is. You can be as secure as you want, you can put up the cameras, all I have to do is put a hood on my head,” said nearby landowner Debbi Raugust. “My first reaction to hearing of the protection Mr. Howell’s site would receive from security guards, surveillance cameras, and we were told armed vehicles which would take the marijuana in and out of this facility was to say they were acknowledging Subway Fresh that they expect trouble,” said Lois Sachs, who lives within a half mile of the proposed site. Try our “Our operation is fairly straightforward. We buy seed, we plant it. We use electricity, we use water NEW and we use labour. At the end of the day the plant is harvested, dried and secured. And when we have that product finished and it’s ready for shipment we receive an order via the patient online,” explained Howell. A shipment would be transported to a depot in Edmonton and sent to the customers through Canada Post using scent free packaging approximately every two weeks. Howell assured the board and landowners that there would never Dr.Leslie Gill be pickups and the only & Dr. Michelle Hrdlicka ones who would go to the operation would be staff. “If we do need Complete Dental & Hygiene Services staff, we have a way ensure that those staff
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Ponoka, because he is a stranger to the community with no ties or cares to it other than his business. Most also believe with his business in the area, their land values would drop. However, Howell felt his business would benefit the community and its people. One benefit he mentioned was the fact his operation was legal and monitored. He feels through commercial business the illegal operations can be extinguished. “We know a lot of them do unfortunately exist, and yes there is a certain criminal element to illegal grow operations.” “We are quiet. No barking dogs or cattle, we’re not out in a field spreading manure. We’re not running heavy equipment or anything else like that,” he added. Other benefits mentioned were the new jobs created, an increased tax base for the county and “cleaner” energy. “The fact that we use transformers, we do what we call clean up the power,” said Howell. “I noticed there was a number of individuals that mentioned the problems with the flickering lights and flickering power. The upside of running the power through out facility is that we clean the power. We take the spikes out and we take the lows out,” he added. With so much power running through the operation, there’s a vast increase in the potential for fire and with emergency services 23 km away the landowners reiterated their opinion that the location was not the place for Howell and his business. “I think we stand by what we said in out letter. We don’t have a problem with an operation to grow medical marijuana. We still don’t believe this is the right location for it,” said Raugust.
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 15
Long-time drivers weather spare shortage By Amelia Naismith Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS) is experiencing a spare bus driver shortage and that is having the biggest impact on those who love the job most, the other drivers. Mark Sperber was hired as a mechanic for the WCPS Ponoka bus garage almost a decade ago. However, on top of his mechanic duties, he’s been driving a bus for Ponoka schools for the last eight years. “Usually I’m not driving, but because we’re
Town route bus driver Mark Sperber so short on people, I have a permanent route.” “It just takes time away from being at the shop,” he added. Sperber says normally two mechanics are in the shop at a given time. However, with a driver drought that can’t always be the case. This is taking its toll on other drivers, especially during the winter as more buses break down or get stuck. “With me being out here, there’s only one in the shop, so it’s affected response time.” Each month around 10 busses are pulled from commission for a short time for their bi-annual inspection, which, if it doesn’t happen, will pull them from use until it does. As more buses experience trouble in the cold temperatures and deep snow, drivers are having to use their spare buses because there isn’t enough manpower to complete the inspections and fix the others in a timely fashion. Before working for WCPS, Sperber drove a fertilizer truck for a fertilizer plant in town, as well as handling trucks for different farmers. He says the biggest draw for a bus-driving career is the social aspect and opportunity to interact with the children. Sperber says patience is key when dealing with the students riding the bus and as a father of four, he’s had lots of practice. “The job is fairly exciting because it’s different every day.” “You know some of the kids or your own kids are going to school . . . So that makes it easier,” he added. Another highlight of the job is something he feels may deter others: the responsibility of the well being of each child on the bus. Sperber says he loves the feeling knowing he’s trusted
enough by families for this job. “It’s a fairly big responsibility and when you can do it without any incidences, it makes you feel pretty proud.” Two reasons Sperber named as possible causes for the lack of spare drivers are the economy and the pay. He says, while the time spent behind the wheel versus the pay is good, the responsibility given to drivers versus the pay is harder to swallow for some. “And I don’t know if the wages have kept pace with other industries.” “There’s a lot of stress and a lot of responsibility. I guess it’s a wage thing . . . But it’s a public service so it’s hard to demand higher wages.” As the economy drives the price of living higher, Sperber feels those who used to be attracted to the job, such as farmers and their wives, are now looking for something more lucrative. He believes farmers are having to work Many students, many buses, few drivers. File photo harder on the farm and the wives want a fulltime job. “Just with the greatest challenges of the job are I’ll wait for you,” she told to young the way times have the weather and discipline problems, boys as they climbed aboard. “The interaction with the families changed, people don’t when they come along. Bowie’s rural route takes her northwest of town and children is pretty special. That’s want part-time jobs past Don Laing Trailers and she says partly because I’m a grandmother anymore.” Sperber feels she’s lucky with the wonderful kids and great-grandmother,” said Bowie. Once or twice a year, the bus WCPS just needs to she gets to pick up. Each pick up takes only a min- drivers take a gift over to the Ponoka find the right people for the job, but with ute, and it’s a 30 second wait to see County grater operators as a token of the economy there’s if there’s life at the top of the drive- their appreciation. “The grater operless and less of them to way. But Bowie knows the children ators are our best friends in the entire and families so well it only takes her draw from. world. Without them we wouldn’t be Jane Bowie has 30 seconds to know if someone will driving out in these bad conditions.” been driving buses for appear to board or not. She knows Along with Wolf Creek transpor31 years and after all who may have exams that day, who tation management staff, Bowie and that time she’s still engrossed by the job. “My has parents that sometimes provide a Sperber believe the job of sparing biggest thing is that I’m in love with my job. I’m ride to school and who plays hockey would fit nicely with stay-at-home and sometimes gets to sleep in. amazed I’m still enjoying it.” The children board the bus with parents. “You’re off when the chil“I push it. I deliberately tell my friends,” she dren are off, so it’s a good job in that added, saying those interested in becoming a spare a good morning from Bowie, who sense.” treats them as if they’re her own chilshould talk with other drivers. And a parent bringing their chilAnd with each passing day, the arrival of a dren or grandchildren; looking after dren along to allow them to work is forgotten mitts and worrying about spare is wanted more and more. “It’s virtually impossible to get a personal day. When you’re their safety on the ice. “You don’t another idea she strongly supports. sick, Wolf Creek does everything they can to find need to run. If I know you’re coming “We’ve fought for that for years.” a spare. Even our mechanics have spared,” said Bowie. Bowie grew up on a farm driving grain trucks and other equipment; bus driving was a natural next step. “Bus driving is ideal for farm wives because it can fit really well between your other jobs.” Pay is based on distance driven and she also feels pay is good for the time drivers spend behind the wheel. However, the shifts can “break the day up pretty badly.” “But we’re (farm wives) used to having our day broken up,” she added. For Bowie two of Rural route bus driver Jane Bowie
Page 16 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
Weeds, Wild Boars blight county By Amelia Naismith The annual Ponoka County Agricultural Service Board (ASB) year-end report, presented to councilors, reiterated that the county’s agricultural practices and health remain in good standing despite minor challenges 2013 brought. Over the year, ASB managed to fully operate and come out $124,390 under budget, which was set at $890,822. The Hawkweed program budget alone sat at $60,000 but came back at just under $65,000. A report submitted to council’s Jan. 21 meeting by Shayne Steffen, manager of agricultural services, states blasting counts for approximately $1000 to $2000 of the board’s
Yellow Hawklweed
yearly income. Spraying brings in $500 to $1000 and rentals reap between $500 and $600. The county and ASB have decided to continue the rental service of sprayers, cattle equipment, traps, planters, spreaders and tag readers but they’re cracking down on those who don’t clean the equipment before retuning it. Historically, if equipment was returned unclean, the renter forfeits their deposit. However, county CAO Charlie Cutforth feels another course of action could prove more affective. If it becomes a problem on an individual basis, the county reserves the right to no longer rent equipment to those people. In 2013, a total of 29 weed notices were issued, all enforcements
CALLING ALL BABIES OF 2013!
were on absentee landowners. The spray program touched 745 km along roadsides but the spring’s wet weather and high winds made the herbicide applications difficult. Across the divisions, the county is experiencing problems with Toadflax, Canada Thistle, Perennial Sow Thistle, Ox-eye daisy, Scentless Chamomile, Leafy Spurge, Field Scabious, Common Tansy, White Cockle, Bull Thistle, Orange and Yellow Hawkweed, and Tall Buttercup. In 2013 Absinth wormwood was upgraded to be classified as a noxious weed. Along with spraying during the wet spring, 62 county roadside miles were seeded — some reseeded due to washouts — with a blend of Fleet Meadow Brome, Boreal Creeping Red Fescue and Orchard Grass. Other problem species and pests encountered during 2013 included three confirmed coyote predations, Wild Boar found in areas south of Rimbey while a suspected herd was spotted northwest of Ponoka by the Ponoka Fish and Game Association. As a declared pest at large, all Wild Boar seen within the county are ordered to be destroyed. As a part of the Beaver Control Farmland and Infrastructure Protection program, 165 beavers were removed last year.
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Orange Hawkweed Grasshoppers were not an issue in 2013, however ASB will continue to monitor weather patterns for a severe outbreak in 2014. Grant allocations remain the same as last year, under the new three-year agreement signed with Alberta Agriculture. A minimum of $150,000 has been allocated to Ponoka County for this grant cycle.
Letters to the editor are appreciated. Contact us at 403-783-3311 editorial@ponokanews.com
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 17
Literacy Day activities bring knowledge and fun to Maskwacis By Mustafa Eric Maskwacis Cultural College was the scene of a number of activities on Friday, Jan. 24 as Maskwacis Cree First Nations marked a day of literacy while kids enjoyed the visit by the Classroom on Wheels (C.O.W) bus to the reserve. Among several activities were displays of various science and social projects as well as presentations by a range of speakers. Keynote speaker was Ozlem Cankaya, representing a non-profit group focusing on children’s literacy and learning skills. In her carefully followed presentation, Cankaya stressed the need for parents to read to their children not only to enhance their ability to comprehend, but also to use reading as a means of communication and a tool to develop their cognitive skills. She also explained that emergent literacy skills in the children until the age of six had a very strong connection with both the language and the cultural environment in which a child was raised. Samson Cree elder Jerry Saddleback also made a presentation during the session focusing on the belief system of the First Nations and how colonization had destroyed some of the cultural and religious practices that had been part of their life for centuries.
Luxih Sun and William Chan, students of University of Edmonton talk to children about acids and bases and how they chemically react with each other during the Maskwacis Cultural College’s Literacy Day activities on Friday, Jan. 24.
St Augustine Good News
FLE, 123! Hands on learning ignites Grade 4’s at St. Augustine School. This past week 50 students and ten parent volunteers from grade four traveled to the Bennett Center in Edmonton for some hands on learning of the unit “Wheels and Levers.” Students were actively engaged in their curriculum building and observing the three classes of levers, working indoors and out with pulleys, tools and gears. Students used teamwork working on the many stations including lifting an adult by themselves pounding and removing
nails, moving a beam with rollers as well as other exciting tasks. The two classes now know from experience that loads are easier to lift and take less effort when placed near the fulcrum. Students learned first-hand about direction and speed of mesh gears. The opportunities for learning allowed students to take initiative and experience successes with various scientific principles. The Grade 4’s will travel back to the Bennett Center in April to build vehicles and devices.
Photo by Mustafa Eric
Page 18 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PSC School Council completes setup process
Concentrating on their work: Students at Ponoka Composite High School were busy last week writing their diploma exams. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
Ponoka Fire Department purchases pump By Amelia Naismith Ponoka Fire Department is receiving the requested funds from Ponoka County to purchase a new Polaris side-by-side with a tank and pump for grass fires and other inaccessible areas. The purchase will be added to the county’s 2014 budget and Ted Dillon, fire chief, assured council the costs wouldn’t exceed $30,000. The pump will be able to haul 100 gallons of water and will help alleviate the multiple trips the volunteer firemen have to make because the backpacks they use hold only five gallons each. Dillon hoped to get obtain equipment as soon as possible. “It’s going to take some time to outfit it all out and grassfire is coming upon is.” In 2012 the fire department dealt with 23 rubbish and grass fires. In 2013 that number jumped to 46. Call numbers increase On average the fire department handles one call every day and a half; already the department has dealt with more calls than at this point in time last year. “2014 is not starting out good, we’ve had more calls than days in the month,” said Dillon. Most of them have been for the highways and on Jan. 2 the year started out with three calls being fielded in a two-hour period. Many of the 78 in-town calls amounted to false alarms while others were much more dangerous. “We’ve had some pretty major structure fires,” said Dillon.
Lanes open for Big Brothers bowling fundraiser By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
By Mustafa Eric With the adoption of the mission statement and bylaws, PSC School Council completed the process of its creation and became fully functional after its meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at the school premises. The document adopted at the meeting states that PSC School Council will undertake its activities “to foster well-being and effectiveness of our school community and to enhance student learning”. The council has an executive committee composed of chairperson, vice-chairperson, secretary and treasurer who will be elected during the annual general meeting and will represent the whole school community. The principal, one or more teachers appointed/elected by teachers, one or more students who might volunteer are also included in the composition of the council. Each and every parent/guardian/primary caregiver of any PSC student is considered a natural member of the school council and will have the right to vote if and when they are present in any meeting of the school council. The bylaws agreed during the Wednesday meeting state that the school council will have a minimum of five regular meetings during a school year while special meetings could be called by the executive with a minimum of five days of notice. The meeting of the school council was visibly livelier as compared to the previous meetings with the increased number participating parents showing heightened interest in the implementation of teaching practices and other activities. Before the adoption of the bylaws, participating parents were introduced by Grade 9 teacher Brady Teeling to an extensive presentation on the evolving implementation model of Grade 9 curriculum. Vice Principal Ron Rarick also briefed parents on a visit paid by Principal Ian Rawlinson and a select group of teachers to a high school in San Diego, California. The next meeting of the school council is scheduled for February.
many different costumes teams can come Folks at Ponoka’s Big Brothers Big up with. She said teams from Ponoka Sisters (BBBS) can’t wait for their an- Elementary School and St. Augustine Catholic School are a big support. nual bowling fundraiser. There will be prizes for teams with The Bowl for Kids’ Sake bowling fundraiser is planned for Feb. 28 and is the best costume and the most amount of a day of bowling fun at Leisure Lanes. pledges made. Also there will be hourMorgen Chernick, program director for ly door prizes and 50/50 tickets up for BBBS, looks forward to the day. “It’s a grabs. For more information or to make a chance for the community to come out pledge online visit www.ponoka.kintera. and have a great time.” From 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., up to 48 org or call Chernick at 403-783-3112. teams will come and show their support There are 31 teams signed up so far. for BBBS’s largest fundraiser of the year. Last year’s event raised more than $19,000, says Chernick. The goal this year is to break that record with more than $20,000 and she feels the community is ready for the challenge. Many Ponoka individuals and businesses show strong support for BBBS. “The support from the community is great,” said Chernick. She feels without the fundraiser, many of the programs offered to Ponoka children would not be possible. “There’s a social return on investment. They (little brothers and sisters) give back to the community.” BBBS puts the ‘fun’ in fundraiser with a theme for teams who are encouraged to dress up; this year’s theme is Out of This World. Chernick looks Bowler in training: Mark Jorgenson gives his son Graysen a few pointers during the bowling File photo forward to seeing the action during last year’s BBBS fundraiser.
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 19
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PRE-OWNED INVENTORY 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV IW7825 leather, NAV, dual DVD, p.roof & more .........................................$28,700 2013 Chrysler 200 SL8871 well equipped only 11,000 km .....................................................................$15,857 2013 Chrysler 200 Ltd. AD3627 leather, p.roof only 12,500 km ...........................................................$21,900 2008 Chrysler 300 Ltd. SL9850A leather, p.roof, NAV & more ................................................................$11,900 2007 Chrysler 300C 13DT2168A leather, p.roof, low kms .......................................................................$19,900 2013 Chrysler Town & Country Touring AD4748 dual DVD, back-up camera, stow n’ go only 7100km .$32,900 2013 Dodge Avenger SE SL6899 well equipped only 5000 km ..............................................................$16,300 2013 Dodge Avenger SXT AD0437 p.seat, p.roof & more .......................................................................$19,900 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T 12301497A loaded, leather,p.roof, hemi only 13,000 km .........................$38,900 2011 Dodge Charger SXT plus 14RQ8743A leather, NAV, p.roof & more .................................................$23,900 2007 Dodge Charger R/T AWD 13RCC97511B leather & more .............................................................$21,900 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 13GV7533A DVD, stow n go, low kms, p.seat .......................................$14,900 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan SL1177 CVP, only 9000 km .......................................................................$21,200 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan SL9174 CVP ..............................................................................................$19,900
1 800 265 6851 or Local 783-5383 1-800-265-6851 Hwy. 2A South www.ponokachrysler.com
2012 Dodge Journey R/T AWD AD8910 leather & more ........................................................................$26,300 2012 Ram 3500 Longhorn Crew 4x4 12RCC8471A 6.7L Cummins, NAV, p.roof, low kms, Ram Box .....$51,900 2011 Ram 1500 Crew 4x4 SXT 14RQ8744A well equipped, low kms ...................................................$23,200 2005 Ram 2500 Q/C 4x4 14RCC8286A 5.9L cummins, leather & more ................................................$24,900 2010 Ford F150 R/C 13RQ2888A 2WD, well equipped, low kms ............................................................$18,500 2005 GMC Sierra Crew 4x4 14RR7922A leather, duramax, well equipped .............................................$21,900 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4 14RCC1842A leather, p.roof, hemi, low kms .........................$24,900 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 14RCC7457A leather,p.roof, NAV, kicker sound ................................$30,900 2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4x4 13RCC3035C dual tops, prem. sound, low kms .............................$25,900 2013 Ram 5500 4x4 Crew cab SLT 13RC1700A only 5800 km, loaded ..............................................$55,000 2004 Chev 1500 Crew LS 4x4 14DJ5437B great shape .......................................................................$12,900 2010 Ram 2500 Crew SLT 4x4 14RQ4636B well equipped, hemi, low kms ..........................................$28,900 2007 Dodge Durango SLT 4x4 14RQ7467A leather, quad captains, DVD, p.roof, hemi .........................$13,900 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT 13DJ9160B DVD, p.doors, low kms & more .......................................$23,200
ELDON JOHNSON ejohnson@ponokachrysler.com
CURTIS EMES cemes@ponokachrysler.com
MARK SIEBEN msieben@ponokachrysler.com
Page 20 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
Recognizing years of service: Former Mayor Larry Henkelman was surprised with a letter of commendation from Prime Minister Stephen Harper Jan. 21 at the Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce AGM. Here he accepts the letter from Wetaskiwin MP Blaine Calkins.
FIRST CHOICE REALTY
403-783-8881
(PONOKA) LTD.
Bay 6, 5103 - 48 Ave. Box 4325 Ponoka, AB T4J 1R7
SANDRA LYON Broker/ Owner
Canadians stressed out by government paperwork: Poll From CFIB As the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) launches its fifth annual Red Tape Awareness Week™, a new report links red tape to added stress and estimates the cost of some of the most common regulatory headaches for Canadians to be at least $10 billion per year or $730 for the average Canadian household. This includes fees and time spent to comply with personal income tax obligations ($6.7 billion, excluding actual taxes paid); fees associated with applying for and renewing passports ($645 million); and fees associated with applying for and
FEATURE PROPERTY real estate central alberta
SOUTH OF PONOKA
6000 • 48 Ave, Ponoka
CENTRAL PONOKA
Jane Wierzba 403-358-8770 Buying or Selling, call Jane!
THINKING OF SELLING? Newer mobile home on 1.93 acres only minutes south of Ponoka. 3bdrm & 2 baths. Yard is mostly fenced.
2 bdrm unit condo in four plex unit. Modern decor throughout, great use of space, east facing windows giving you lots of natural light. Like new condition, upgraded appliances.
$250,000.00
$189,900.00
G! PENDIN
I have qualified Buyers looking for Residential homes in Ponoka around the $300,000 - $400,000 range!! Inventory is Low! Call for a
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FREE MARKET EVALUATION
renewing driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations ($1.7 billion). Excluding personal income taxes, the value of time spent complying with these and other regulatory obligations is nearly $1.1 billion annually. “These numbers barely scratch the surface,” said CFIB’s executive vice president Laura Jones. “If you are renovating your home, applying for a student loan, or even if you’re going fishing, there are costs and paperwork involved.” CFIB has previously pegged the direct cost of regulation on Canadian businesses at $31 billion per year. The new data on cost to individuals begins to provide a fuller picture of the total cost of regulation for all Canadians. And this cost goes beyond just money. In a national public opinion poll conducted by Vision Critical for the CFIB, 45 per cent of respondents said that excessive regulation adds significant stress to their lives. In previous CFIB surveys, the percentage of small business owners who said that red tape added stress was even higher. “Keep in mind, small business owners are doubly affected by red tape, because they deal with it as individuals, and as entrepreneurs,” added Jones. “If you think filing your taxes and renewing your driver’s license is a pain, it’s just a small taste of what small businesses deal with on a daily basis.” To read the full report, Impact of Regulation on Canadian Individuals, please visit www.cfib.ca. CFIB has an on-line petition (www.cfib.ca/ rtaw) against red tape that will be delivered to governments.
6000 - 48 Ave.
(Beside The Old Iron Horse Restaurant)
real estate central alberta MUST SELL
- 1.5 storey w/ 1208 sq ft - 4 bdrms & 1 bath - Spacious main floor laundry - Deck & fully fenced backyard - 3 storage sheds
403-783-5007 IMMEDIATE POSSESSION
$139,900 – Call Jane
EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY! W LISTING
NE
- 1358 Square Feet - 4 B/R, 3 Bath - Hardwood Flooring - Open, Living Area w/ Vaulted Ceiling - Large Island in Kitchen - Great Location!
- 65.09 acres west of Bluffton - 800+ sq. ft. bungalow - Move in ready - New windows, doors, shingles, etc. - Gorgeous mature yard
HILLSIDE BUNGALOW
- 75’ x 120’ lot - Well suited for any commercial venture - Good front exposure and alley access - Ready to build on - Zoned C1
AFFORDABLE ACREAGE
G
NEW LISTIN
- 1375 sq ft w Full Basement - Fully finished; 5 bdrms/3 baths - Kitchen w Island/Granite counters - Walk-out; Fireplace - Large main floor Laundry - Patio doors to covered deck
$305,000 Call Bob
LUXURY
- 2536 sq.ft. walk out 4 b/r, 3 baths - Bright Kitchen & Eating Area - Kitchen offers direct access to backyard - Double Attached Garage - Over-sized Single Garage in backyard
- A must see 5.71 acres - 1506 sq. ft. 3 bed & 3 bath laundry - Main floor laundr living space - Boasting huge liv - Nestled between Lacombe & Ponoka just off the Hwy H 2 corridor
THIS ACREAGE HAS EVERYTHING
- 1408 sq ft bi-level - 5 bdrms, 3 baths - Mature yard, fenced & cross fenced - 22’ x 48’ Barn, Outdoor riding arena - Located on pavement only 5 mins
FANTASTIC STARTER HOME!
NEW PRICE
- Close to school & downtown - Property is very neat & clean - Immediate Possession - Very Affordable
$129,900 Call Bob
LISA SMITH
Assoc. Broker
Associate
- 2455 sq ft 1.5 storey luxury home - 5 bdrms & 4 baths - High end finishes throughout - Master w/ balcony & ensuite - Would consider trade or lease to own!
- Picturesque River Valley View - 1784 sq ft Executive Hillside Bungalow - Numerous Upscale Outbuildings - Commercial Potential - 81 Scenic acres - Fantastic Location w/ easy access to hwy 2
- Warm & Inviting 1330+ sq ft - 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home - Fantastic Lucas Heights location - Lots of updates - Fully fenced yard and RV parking
$250,000 Call Lisa NATURE AT IT’S FINEST!
$469,950 Call Todd
CLOSE TO SCHOOLS! - 1.5 Storey, 3 Bdrms & 1 Bath
DEB STEVENS
Associate
STUNNING
- Ideal hobby farm or large acreage - Private 12.95 acres treed & pasture - 5 bdrm ranch style bungalow - 25x50 shop, barn with corrals - Paved driveway, yard equip incl.
HANDYMAN SPECIAL W LISTING
NE
- Beautifully maintained 1568 sq.ft home - 5 level split; 3 bdrms & 3 baths - Great family home - Many Upgrades & Extras! - Corner lot, mature yard
$299,000 – Call Bob
- 1.5 Storey Home in Central Ponoka - 2 Bedroom, 1.5 bath - Handyman Special
$65,000 – Call Deb AFFORDABLE RECREATION!
- Lakefront Property - Fully Serviced Cabin Under $200,000 Watch for it next week! Call Lisa for more details! GREAT STARTER HOME
$689,000 ~ Call Todd
SO MUCH TO OFFER
- 2 residences and large shop - Main house has 6bdrms & 4 baths - Approx 25 acres - Too many extras to mention - 360 degree views & only ½ mile from town
$979,900 Call Jane
Call Deb for details
$355,000, Call Lisa 19+ ACRES W/ HOME
JANE WIERZBA
$549,000 Call Jane
SOLD
$159,000 Call Todd
GREAT LOCATION
Assoc. Broker
$365,000 Call Deb
$330,000 Call Lisa
DOWNTOWN LOT
TODD REED
Associate
$549,000 Call Jane
$410,000 Call Deb
GREAT ACREAGE/HOBBY FARM
- 1617 sq ft w/ 5 bdrms & 3 baths - 11 Ft & 9 ft ceilings w/ open floor plan & all upgrades - High-end home w/ fully finished basement - Professionally landscaped w/ sprinkler system
BOB TILTGEN
· · · ·
Charming 1 ½ storey 3 bdrm, 2 bath Large yard & detached garage Ample cabinets with newer appliances · Finished basement
Only $179,900 Call Todd
ONE OWNER HOME
- Great home on quiet close - 2323 total sq ft; Fully finished - 5 Bdrms & 3 Baths - 2 Fireplaces - Dbl detached garage - Lge deck; Landscaped yard - Quick Possession
$289,000 Call Bob
TO VIEW A COMPLETE LIST OF OUR PROPERTIES AND VIRTUAL TOURS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT
www.ponokaproperties.com
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 21
Celebrating Balance in Pinot Noir By David White “If a Pinot Noir is overwhelmed with fruit -- or, indeed, by any element, like oak, fruit extraction, fruit ripeness, or alcohol -you’re going to lessen the possibility that the wine can express essential place. And for me, Pinot Noir is all about essential place.” If any grape demands contemplation, it’s Pinot Noir. The great ones translate time and place, clearly expressing the characteristics of their vintage and the soils and climate in which they’re grown. So I wasn’t surprised to hear these words from Jasmine Hirsch, as her father, David, planted what is considered one of America’s top Pinot Noir vineyards nearly 35 years ago. We were chatting about an annual wine event she launched with Rajat Parr, a celebrity sommelier, in 2011. Dubbed “In Pursuit of Balance,” it applauds the California winemakers who eschew ripeness and power in favor of restraint and elegance. The event has helped counteract the notion that California only makes fruit bombs. And it’s brought attention to some of California’s top Pinot Noir producers. In Pursuit of Balance traces its roots to 2008, when Hirsch entered the wine industry by taking over sales and marketing for her family’s winery. At the time, she was living in New York and had fallen in love with Pinot Noir, so it made sense to join the family business. But the wines that stole her heart came
from Burgundy. She was continuously “blown away by what they were able to achieve” in France. When she started working for her family, she began drinking more California Pinot Noir. Too often, she didn’t enjoy the wines. They were, quite simply, too big. In ripeness, alcohol, and oak, they lacked the subtlety and poise she’d grown to love in Burgundy. Around that same time, Hirsch developed a friendship with Rajat Parr, the wine director for the Mina Group, a restaurant management company with a global reputation for its wine program. Parr was known for his obsession with Pinot Noir, so Hirsch asked him why California couldn’t produce more elegant wines. Parr showed Hirsch that the state could. Indeed, a handful of producers had been making Pinot Noir that achieved the grape’s higher purpose -- translating both time and place -- for decades. The two friends soon hashed out a plan for a formal tasting for sommeliers, journalists, and eager consumers. The first brought together nearly 25 California producers and generated tremendous buzz. At that time, Hirsch said, “California was facing an identity crisis.” Most oenophiles believed what Hirsch thought just a few years prior: that California wines were over the top. Parr and Hirsch sought to debunk this notion. The wines they showcased weren’t
BRAND NEW 2 STOREY HOME! IN PONOKA - MOVE IN TODAY!
always popular. Then, as now, the best-known critics gave their highest ratings to ripe, powerfully concentrated wines. While this praise is certainly defensible, such wines were the antithesis of what Parr and Hirsch looked for in Pinot Noir. Naturally, the event stirred controversy. By presenting a limited number of producers, Hirsch and Parr created an exclusionary event. Plus, the word “balance” -- which refers to fruit, acidity, structure, and alcohol coexisting harmoniously, with no single element dominating -- is a lightning rod. Last year, Wine Spectator’s Harvey Steiman proclaimed that he “[resented] the implication that richer, more full-bodied wines can’t be balanced.” Hirsch and Parr acknowledge these criticisms. Today, wineries that hope to join their tasting must first pass muster with a panel of judges who taste blind. And Hirsch admits
Bob Tiltgen real estate central alberta 403-704-0644 Whether Buying or Selling… I’m here to help!
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RED DEER LAKE Full time living or recreational property at Red Deer Lake. 3 bdrm. Very clean property shows pride of ownership. Mature subdivision. $
189,900
Beautiful building sites just a short drive south of Ponoka in Jada Estates. Building restrictions make this property an exclusive area for upscale homes. Seven acreages available.
Panorama Ridge, 4009 41 Street Close
• master suite has walk-in closet • spacious ensuite with jetted corner tub, separate shower, his & her sinks
264,900
$585,000 ~ Call Bob
GET READY FOR SPRING
Call Wayne 403-704-0864 READY TO MOVE IN
New Home Warranty approved
Buying or Selling, call Jane!
- - 3bdrms & 3 baths - - Built in 2008 - - Fully finished basement w/ walkout - Deck & fully fenced backyard - Backs onto open field - Move In Ready!
• 6 acres; just outside of Ponoka • Fully finished with In-floor heat • 3.5 acres has Invisible fencing
COMMERCIAL
• granite counter tops • island • walk-in pantry
Jane Wierzba 403-358-8770
JUST LIKE NEW
Great location on main street of Ponoka. Total space 2750 sq. ft building and lot only. Call Wayne 403-704-0864
For more information or to arrange a viewing call Darrell at 403-704-0630 Or email castlefinishing@ shaw.ca
real estate central alberta
6000 • 48 Ave, Ponoka
JUST MOVE IN!
5118 - 50th Street, Ponoka
• 3 bdrm, 2 ½ bath • attached 3 car 1860 sq ft family garage home • large lot backing • large bonus room onto green space • gas fireplace • on a cul-de-sac • main floor laundry
that the event might have been misnamed. For my palate, the wines that Hirsch and Parr have chosen to celebrate are among America’s most exciting and delicious. Producers like Copain, Littorai, and Peay make precise, focused wines that are full of charm. The wines from Hirsch’s own property and Rajat Parr’s two labels, Sandhi and Domaine de la Cote, are similarly stunning. Pinot Noir is one of viticulture’s most fickle grapes. It’s challenging and expensive to grow. By bringing attention to the California wineries that work hard to achieve Pinot Noir’s higher purpose, Hirsch and Parr deserve everyone’s praise. David White is the founder and editor of Terroirist.com, which was named “Best Overall Wine Blog” at the 2013 Wine Blog Awards.
Riverside bungalow immediate possession. 3 bdrms. up and 2 down. Tons of upgrades, single garage, fenced yard, nice home.
Call Wayne 403-704-0864
BARE LOT
In north end of town for development. Ideal for duplex.
$69,000
Call Wayne 403-704-0864 COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL
This 10 acre parcel is a perfect choice to build that dream home and have plenty of room to keep livestock, grow trees or organic gardening. Nice lay of land with #1 soil, service borders property. Located just minutes north of town. REDUCED $89,000.00 Terms available.
Call Brian for more details. 403.704.7018
EXCLUSIVE NOW SELLING
Call Brian 403-704-7018
SOUTH OF PONOKA
TOTAL COUNTRY CLOSE TO TOWN
Two 10 acre parcels. Walk-out opportunity.
Call Brian 403-704-7018
Most acreages are treed offering excellent building sites and privacy.
RIVERSIDE
.64 acre, great development property. Chance to develop up to 5 lots. Property priced $20,000 under assessed value. Offered for sale at $60,000.
Call Brian Hatala 403-704-7018
Call Brian 403-704-7018
BUYER INCENTIVES AVAILABLE!
403.704.0630
WAYNE McGARVEY
BRIAN HATALA
ANNETTE DODDS
SHAWNA LOW Broker
PROFESSIONAL REALTORS OF JOHN W. LOW AGENCIES INC.
Page 22 PONOKA NEWS
Nature Note By Charles Bird The following photograph was taken of lichens on the bark of a balsam poplar tree beside Erskine Lake in south-central Alberta on March 27, 2013. The yellow one is the lichen Xanthomendoza fallax. This lichen is very common in on the bark of poplar trees in southern Alberta. The color ranges from orange to yellow, however, it can be yellowish green when wet.
Lichens are unique in the Plant Kingdom as each “species” is made up of a union of algal cells and fungal hyphae that are so symbiotically in union that the alga contributes food through photosynthesis and the fungal hyphae provide the substrate that holds the algal cells in place. Lichens receive moisture through rain and dew and nutrients from dust that settles out on them. Lichens can be crustose as in this case, when closely attached to the substrate, foliose when broad and loosely attached, or fruticose, when branched and attached at one basal point. The taxonomy of lichens has been undergoing change as studies in chemistry and DNA have been revealing new information about relationships. Along with this, the genus name of this lichen has been changed from Xanthoria to Xanthomendoza. Many additional lichen species occur on tree bark. The grey ones in the photograph are an example. The very best source of information on this and other North American lichens is Irwin Brodo, Sylvia Duran Sharnoff and Stephen Sharnoff’s 2001 book “Lichens of North America”. See http://www.sharnoffphotos.com/lichensH/ xanthomendoza_fallax.html, for additional images. When going on your next winter hike, take a close look at the bark of poplar trees. You may be surprised at all the life that is there.
Letters to the editor are appreciated. Contact us at 403-783-3311 editorial@ponokanews.com
Wise customers read the fine print: •, ‡, ∞ The First Big Deal Sales Event offers are limited time offers which apply to retail deliveries of selected new and unused models purchased from participating dealers on or after January 7, 2014. Offers subject to change and may be extended without notice. All pricing includes freight ($1,695) and excludes licence, insurance, registration, any dealer administration fees, other dealer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell for less. •$24,998 Purchase Price applies to the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Sport FWD. $39,498 Purchase Price applies to the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo. ‡3.49% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2014 Jeep Cherokee Sport FWD model to qualified customers on approved credit through Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. See your dealer for complete details. Example: 2014 Jeep Cherokee Sport FWD with a Purchase Price of $24,998 financed at 3.49% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 208 bi-weekly payments of $138 with a cost of borrowing of $3,669 and a total obligation of $28,667. ∞4.19% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee model to qualified customers on approved credit through Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. See your dealer for complete details. Example: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo with a Purchase Price of $39,998 financed at 4.19% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 208 bi-weekly payments of $226 with a cost of borrowing of $7,109 and a total obligation of $47,107. ♦Based on 2013 Ward’s Middle Sport/Utility segmentation. Based on combined highway/city 2014 EnerGuide fuel consumption ratings. Government of Canada test methods used. Your actual fuel consumption will vary based on driving habits and other factors. ¤ Based on 2013 EnerGuide Fuel Consumption Guide ratings published by Natural Resources Canada. Government of Canada test methods used. Your actual fuel economy will vary based on powertrain, driving habits and other factors. 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo - Hwy: 7.0 L/100 km (40 MPG) and City: 10.3 L/100 km (27 MPG). 2014 Jeep Cherokee Sport - Hwy: 6.4 L/100 km (44 MPG) and City: 9.6 L/100 km (29 MPG). ❖Real Deals. Real Time. Use your mobile device to build and price a ny model. TMThe SiriusXM logo is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc. ®Jeep is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC.
Xanthomendoza Fallax, The Hooded Sunburst Lichen
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
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Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 23
Why fun things to do are always banned “Don’t Push the Button!” written and illustrated by Bill Cotter c.2013, Sourcebooks $16.99 / $19.99 Canada 32 pages You never get to do anything fun. Little kids get away with all kinds of behavior. Big kids get all the privileges. But you, at your age, you only hear “No” or “Don’t” or “You can’t.” It’s enough to make a kid scream. Don’t go outside without a coat. No playing in mud puddles. Don’t get dirty. You can’t touch anything. Don’t ask too many questions. No being loud. Don’t fight with your sister. You can’t forget your mittens. And, for sure, when you read the new book written and illustrated by Bill Cotter, “Don’t Push the Button!”
pen. It’s a plain old red Open the covers of this book and you’ll be button on the paper, introduced to Larry. right there all by itLarry is a purple self. Sometimes, Larry monster, but he’s not wonders what would scary. Not at all; he’s happen if you pushed friendly and fun and it… but no! Don’t he wants you to come push the button! play with him inside Then again, what this book. There’s just if nobody was around? Terri “one rule” you’ll need What would you do to follow: don’t push the Schlichenmeyer with that button? Larbutton. ry is pretty tempted to The Bookworm “Seriously,” says find out but he wants Larry. “Don’t even you to do the dirty THINK about it.” work. He wants you to “give the butOh, sure, it’s a nice button. It’s red ton one little push.” and round and it’s just sitting there on Uh oh. If you push the button, the page, waiting for something to hap- strange things happen to Larry. Now
Cow Patti Theatre will make audiences laugh again By Mustafa Eric Lacombe’s Cow Patti theatre is once again preparing to raise the curtains for a spectacular comedy and a touching love story,“ Perfect Wedding” and once again Valerie Barrett of Ponoka is cast in the lead role in the play that will open on February 13. Written by one of the most prolific of British playwrights, Robin Hawdon, the play has reportedly been produced several hundred times in more than 20 countries. With a plot based on bizarre coincidences like a bridegroom preparing to tie the knot that day waking up to find a very attractive woman in his bed just before the bride-to-be is about to arrive, the play is said to be massively popular with audiences. Subway Fresh Cow Patti theatre says there is a further bonus: Their version of the production will be directed by Try our Walter Learning, a Canadian theatre icon, who is said to be coming to central Alberta only to direct NEW the performances which will go on until March 2. Cow Patti theatre says the performance on Feb. ALAPENO 27 will be a benefit performance for Ponoka VicHEESEBREAD tim Services. For more information, email theatre@cowpatti.com
C
J
what? Push it again and even odder things happen. Push it “a bunch of times” and wow. Now you’ve really got a mess and Larry’s in big trouble. He’s no longer a purple monster. But there’s a way out. Larry knows what to do. There are a few steps you’ll need to take to get things back to the way they were before. But only you can do it because, well, you were the one who pushed the button in the first place. Just don’t do it again. Don’t push that button! (Okay. Maybe just once…) Of course, you want your child to Bill Cotter know that books are good and reading is fun – which is why you need “Don’t Push the Button!” in your house: this book is good fun. Larry the Monster is adorable and every bit as curious as is your child. He’s like a paper playmate, daring kids to do the not-so-naughty thing he’s told them not to do. But author and illustrator Bill Cotter makes Larry – and the button – irresistible, and the interactive solution to what ultimately happens will make kids giggle. Word-wise, there’s not much to this book. You could probably plow through it in about five minutes, but why would you? “Don’t Push the Button!” is a story that absolutely needs to be read with time on your hands and a sense of silliness. Again and again, that’s something kids will really want to do.
Stay informed with the 403-783-3311
FEBRUARY IS DENTAL HEALTH MONTH CALL TODAY to discuss your pet’s Dental Health Care Get to the root of the problem Pets need dental health care, too! 8 a.m. - 5 p.m Mon. to Sat. Open late Thursday 24-hour Emergency Call Dr. Bill Frischke Dr. Kelly Loree Dr. Leighton Coma Dr. Trevor Hook Southwest Industrial Park 4102-64 St., Ponoka 403-783-5200 Dr. Patricia Kelly
Ponoka Capitol Theatre 4904 - 50th St. Ph. 403-783-3639
PLAYING Jan. 31 to Feb. 6 SCREEN #1
Lone Survivor 121 min 2:00 PM Sat-Sun 7:00 PM Daily Rated 14A SCREEN #2
Ride Along 100 min 2:00 PM Sat-Sun 8:00 PM Daily Rated PG
Page 24 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
The Arab Spring Three Years On By Gwynne Dyer It has taken a little longer than it did after the 1848 revolutions in Europe, but on the third anniversary of the Egyptian revolution, we can definitely say that the “Arab Spring” is finished. The popular, mostly non-violent revolutions that tried to overthrow the single-party dictatorships and absolute monarchies of the Arab world had their moments of glory, but the party is over and the bosses are back. People in the Middle East hate having their triumphs and tragedies treated as a second-hand version of European history, but the parallels with Europe in 1848 are hard to resist. The Arab tyrants had been in power for just as long, the revolutions were fuelled by the same mixture of democratic idealism and frustrated nationalism, and once again the trigger for the revolutions (if you had to highlight just one factor) was soaring food prices. In many places the Arab revolutionaries had startlingly quick successes at first – Tunisia, Egypt, Yemen – just like the French, German, and Italian revolutionaries did in Europe’s “Springtime of the Peoples”. For a time it looked like everything would change. Then came the counter-revolutions and it all fell apart, leaving only a few countries permanently changed for the better – like Denmark then, or Tunisia in today’s Arab world. The disheartening parallels are particularly strong between Egypt, by far the biggest country in the Arab world, and France, which was Europe’s most important and populous country in 1848. In both cases, the revolutions at first brought free media, civil rights and free elections, but also a great deal of social turmoil and
Gwynne Dyer Guest Columnist disorientation. In both France and Egypt the newly enfranchised masses then elected presidents whose background alarmed much of the population: a nephew of Napoleon in one case, a leader of the Muslim Brotherhood in the other. And here the stories diverge for a time – but the ending, alas, does not. In France, President Louis Napoleon launched a coup against his own presidency, and re-emerged in 1852 as Emperor Napoleon III. It had been a turbulent few years, and by then a large majority of the French were willing to vote for him because he represented authority, stability and tradition. They threw away their own democracy. In Egypt last year, the army allied itself with former revolutionaries to overthrow the elected president, Mohamed Morsi – and within a few months, after an election which will genuinely represent the wish of most Egyptians to trade their new democracy for authority, stability and tradition, Field Marshal Abdel Fatah al-Sisi will duly assume the presidency. The counter-revolution is as popular in Egypt now as it was in France then. And if you fear that this analogy is really relevant, then here’s the worst of it. After the defeat of the 1848 revolutions, there were no further democratic revolutions in Europe for twenty years. If that timetable were also to apply to the Arab world, then the next round of
The Harper Conservatives and the opposition are keeping ss in the dark and they like it that way Gregory Thomas Canadian Taxpayers Federation Federal Director The Christmas break interrupted the abysmal work of the Commons committee on procedure, tasked with finding a way for MPs to account publicly for the millions of taxpayer dollars they spend on travel, contracts, and staff. Recall that taxpayers only found out about the expense shenanigans in the Senate through a series of leaks to the media. The expense claims and receipts of senators are top secret documents, not available to the public who pay them. Senators, like MPs, are not subject to the federal Access to Information Act. The Auditor General of Canada, who audits the army, the RCMP, and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, is not allowed to audit MPs and Senators without their permission. The execrable Commons committee on procedure listened to the testimony of the Auditor General, who told them he should audit them and make the audits public. They listened to the Information Commissioner of Canada, who told them that they should make their travel and office expenses, receipts, and contracts public, and subject to the Access to Information Act. They even listened to the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, who told them to allow audits and put their expenses and receipts online. Instead, the committee voted to stick with the status quo, add a few more columns to the summary spending tables they publish for each MP, and publish the tables more often. NDP MPs dissented from the laughable committee report, yet they continue to refuse to provide so much as a word of explanation for their travel and office expenses. Liberal MPs post travel expense information on the Liberal Party website, which is scant of details, if you’re lucky enough to find a page that actually works. Conservative MPs keep spending details secret: office expenses, contracts, salaries, hospitality. But they proactively post detailed information about some of the trips they take. One trip that was disclosed was by Ontario Conservative MP Patrick Brown, a marathon runner. Brown wanted to enter the New York marathon in 2012 to raise
money for diabetes research, but a hurricane interrupted his plans. MPs are entitled to two trips to New York City each year to participate in the work of the United Nations. Brown had never gone. But in 2013, Brown arranged a trip to the UN for November 3rd, the Monday after the New York marathon, paid his own tab for the hotel on Saturday, ran the marathon, headed to the UN the next day, dutifully attended his meetings, and went home. Then Brown posted all the expense details on his website, minus the receipts, and he reported his charity fundraising success on his web site, Facebook and Twitter accounts. All hell broke loose. After a day or two of bad publicity, Brown decided to pick up the tab for the New York trip, where he ran 26 miles, raised $8,520 for diabetes research and visited the UN. Meanwhile, over the winter break, MPs from all parties were flying all over the planet, to exotic warm destinations, using public funds, for international parliamentary conferences, parliamentary friendship groups and goodwill tours. None of this is disclosed proactively on any MP’s website. Some MPs book dozens of trips, running up six figure travel budgets. Some take their spouses and families. Some take dozens of trips not between Ottawa and the communities they represent, not to the UN, not to Washington, just somewhere. And they refuse to say where. In agreeing to personally cover his $1,416.06 travel tab for the trip to New York, Brown defended the time he spent at the UN. His meetings he said, dealt with human rights, with the treatment of the Tamil population in war torn Sri Lanka. Brown has many constituents in his riding who come from Sri Lanka. He said he had raised the issue a year earlier, at a UN conference in Geneva. Wait a minute! Geneva? Who knew about that junket? Where is that one listed? What did that one cost? It’s anybody’s guess. MPs and Senators are still operating in the dark ages when it comes to accountability. They like it in the dark just fine.
democratic revolutions would only be due around 2035. But it probably doesn’t apply. There is one key difference between the European revolutions of 1848 and the Arab revolutions of 2011. The 1848 revolutions were violent explosions of popular anger that succeeded in hours or days, while those of 2010-11 were largely non-violent, more calculated struggles that took much longer to win. Non-violent revolutions give millions of people time to think about why they are taking these risks and what they hope to get out of it. They may still lose focus, take wrong turns, even throw all their gains away. Mistakes are human, and so is failure. But once people have participated in a non-violent revolution they are permanently politicised, and in the long run they are quite likely to remember what they came for. The most promising candidate to succeed Gene Sharp as the world authority on non-violent revolutions is Erica Chernoweth, a young American academic who co-wrote the study “Why Civil Resistance Works: The Strategic Logic of Non-Violent Conflict” with diplomat Maria Stephan. A lot of their book is about why non-violent revolution succeeds or fails, but most interesting of all
are their statistics about HOW OFTEN it succeeds. Their headline statistic is that violent revolutionary struggles succeed in overthrowing an oppressive regime only 30 percent of the time, whereas non-violent campaigns succeed almost 60 percent of the time. By that standard, the Arab world is certainly under-performing. There have been only two relative successes among the Arab countries, Tunisia and Morocco (where the change came so quickly that hardly anybody noticed). There were two no-score draws: Yemen and Jordan. And there were three abject failures: Bahrain, Egypt and Syria, the latter ending up in a full-scale civil war. (Libya doesn’t count, as it was a violent revolution with large foreign participation right from the start.) So far, not so good. But the most relevant statistic from Chernoweth and Stephan’s work for the future of the Arab world is this: “Holding all other variables constant, the average country with a failed non-violent campaign has over a 35 percent chance of becoming a democracy five years after a conflict’s end.” The game isn’t over yet. Gwynne Dyer is an independent journalist whose articles are published in 45 countries.
Comparing U.S., Canadian healthcare systems Canadians and Americans are misinformed about how each country’s systems work By Trudy Lieberman Fellow Center for Advancing Health Troy Media/ - One thing Americans and Canadians can agree on is that we don’t want each other’s healthcare systems. In truth, most Americans don’t know how Canada’s system works and Canadians don’t know much about the U.S. system. What Americans know has come mainly from the negative talking points of politicians and others who have argued for years against national health insurance. Two decades ago, The New York Times reported that Canadian women had to wait for Pap smears, a point vigorously refuted by the Canadian ambassador who shot back in a letter to the Times editor: “You, and Americans generally, are free to decide whatever healthcare system to choose, avoid or adapt, but the choice is not assisted by opinions unrelated to fact.” Yes, there are waiting lists for some services - but, no, Canadians are not coming across the border in droves to get American care. There’s misinformation among Canadians, too. Wherever I went, Canadians told me they thought, mostly based on what they said they heard on CNN and Fox, that Obamacare meant America was getting universal health coverage like their country has. When I explained the law was simply another patch on a patchwork quilt of coverage, and the Congressional Budget Office had estimated last year there would still be some 30 million people without insurance, the reaction was “the news media didn’t tell us that.” A former deputy health minister in New Brunswick said to me, “After all that, you will still have 30 million people without coverage!” Separating fact from opinion as the Canadian ambassador long ago urged was something I tried to do as I made my way across Canada while visiting there recently. In some ways, the Canadian system is very different from U.S. healthcare. In other ways, it’s very much the same and faces similar challenges in the years ahead. What we don’t share Although the Affordable Care Act in the U.S. calls for more people to have health insurance by offering subsidies and mandating all Americans have it or face penalties, the concept of universality is still a far distant goal. Continued on page 32
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 25
Get In Line Wheat and corn may have found a bottom towards the end of January as international buyers look to capitalize on the multi-year lows. One positive for the individual Canadian producer is that a depreciating Loonie ($1 U.S.D. equaled about $1.10 C.A.D. at the time of writing) gives other countries more purchasing power. This means that they can buy more supply with the same amount of their currency. Rains in Argentina and positive harvest numbers coming out of Brazil have pushed the soybean complex lower as expectations for significant production continues to grow. As such, adding the downside risk for soybeans is China potentially cancelling U.S. orders and switching over to Brazilian goods. Rumours are building that Brazilian ports are already booked through February and the ships are starting to line up outside the harbour. Speaking of logistics, Canadian agriculture continues to get press for its awesome (read: not awesome) movement of grain out of the Vancouver port. With a 96.5 million-tonne crop and 44.6
Silver Valley 4-H Riders News Submitted by Meggie MacKenzie The Silver Valley 4-H Riders are a horse 4-H club, we have 12 members and are having the best year so far. We have had four rides and five meetings, the first meeting was in September and the first ride was in October. Also, we had blast at our Christmas ride in December, we did lots of fun games and Secret Santa; that’s when you give someone a gift and they don’t know who’s giving it to them. At our January ride we worked on horse care and safety, after that we worked on our riding and staying in control of your horse. Our club is looking forward to the rest of the year including getting ready for regionals which is an awesome time.
in Kansas and Oklamillion tonnes expected to be headed out of the homa but the extent of country this year, 2.7 the damage is hard to million tonnes are repredict until the crop portedly sitting in limbo emerges from dormancy. as 37 ships are waiting Technicals in the comin the British Columplex continue to suggest bian port. As demurrage that the commodity is costs continue to float still oversold (managed between $10,000 and money is holding a very $20,000 a day, I’m large net short position), Brennan Turner sure the international FarmLead Breakfast Brief especially in the winter grain buyers are really wheat markets. interested in the recentCanada exported ly-announced five-year 5.72 million tonnes of wheat (exstudy of the Canadian logistical sys- cluding durum) between August and tem (partially funded by the Canadian November 2013, a 27 per cent infederal government and headed up by crease year-over-year, with the U.S. Pulse Canada). It’s estimated that bebeing the biggest customer (took in tween C.N. and C.P., there’s 36,660 1.13 million tonnes). While grain outstanding grain-railcar orders that movement in the Canadian Prairies have yet to be filled (as of January th 17 ). Also, keep in mind that Cana- are at an all-time high (per C.P. and dian railroads shipped 34 per cent C.N. data), there’s definitely frustramore crude petroleum and fuel oils tion out there. Clearly, transparency in October 2013 than a year prior and has been word du jour for the past couple months and I’m proud that double the amount in October 2011. Wheat prices continue to be sup- it is the pillar of our business modported on export sales as prices in el here at FarmLead. This in mind, Chicago fell in the second last week while railcars aren’t going west, of January to a 3.5-year low and we’re bringing on more companies many countries capitalized on the to push movement elsewhere (AKA new bottom. This included Saudi south or to the east). If your grain Arabia buying 600,000 tonnes, Iraq isn’t available to these companies on buying 350,000 tonnes, and Alge- the FarmLead Marketplace though, ria snapping up 500,000 tonnes as they can’t work with you. To growth, well. The majority of the damage of Brennan Turner the cold weather on the U.S. winter President, FarmLead.com wheat crop was likely hardest hit
Brennan Turner is originally from Foam Lake, SK, where his family started farming the land in the 1920s. After completing his degree in economics from Yale University and then playing some pro hockey, Mr. Turner spent some time working in finance before starting FarmLead.com, a riskfree, transparent online and now mobile grain marketplace (app available for iOS and Android). His weekly column is a summary of his free, daily market note, the FarmLead Breakfast Brief. He can be reached via email (b.turner@farmlead. com) or phone (1-855-332-7653).
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VJV MARKET REPORT MARKET REPORT JANUARY 22, 2014 On Wednesday, January 22, 2014 -4597 head of cattle went through our rings & 188 head on the Canadian Satellite sale - TOTAL - 4785
SLAUGHTER CATTLE D1 - D2 cows D3 - D4 cows Holstein cows Heiferettes Bologna Bulls Feeder bulls
75.00-83.00 65.00-71.00 50.00-75.00 80.00-95.00 80.00-95.00 85.00-110.00
Good Bred Cows 1000.00-1450.00 Older Bred Cows N/A Good Bred Heifers: N/A Cow/calf pairs (younger) NONE Cow/Calf pairs (older) N/A
STOCKERS AND FEEDERS Good Feeder Steers 1000 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 900 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 800 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 700 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 600 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 500 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 400 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 300 lbs Plus:
130.00-155.00 145.00-164.00 155.00-171.00 164.00-179.00 184.00-196.00 190.00-215.00 195.00-225.00 195.00-225.00
Dairy Steers Baby Calves Dairy Type: Baby Calves Beef Type: Hay: Sq Bales Straw: Sq. Bales Greenfeed: Sq. Bales.
95.00-105.00 20.00-30.00 240.00-420.00 3.25-7.00 1.00-2.00 2.50-3.00
Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers
Rd Bales Rd Bales Rd Bales
120.00-134.00 130.00-144.00 144.00-155.00 151.00-166.00 160.00-174.00 174.00-184.00 175.00-200.00 175.00-195.00
SUNDAY
MONDAY
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Note - Arena will be closed for Open Riding if temps are -20C or colder
2 Open Ride – 10am – 4pm
3 Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm Open Ride 1-5pm
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ABRA meeting – Classroom – 11am
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SATURDAY 1 Don Laing Trailer Ladies Barrel Racing Jackpot Double Header #6 & #7 (12 noon)
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Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm Open Ride 1-4pm Don Laing Trailer Barrel Racing Jackpot #5 – 7pm
Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm Open Ride 1-6pm Private Booking 7-10pm Large arena Ranch Roping – 7-10pm small arena
Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm Open Ride 1-6pm Open & Family Ride/ Build a Better Horse 6-9pm
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Open ride 9am-5pm (No Barrel practice) Private Booking 7-10pm Large arena Ranch Roping – 7-10pm small arena
Arena Closed
Reining Alberta Clinic
Open Ride 1-5pm Private Booking 7-10pm
11 Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm Open Ride 1-5pm
Open Ride 1-5pm Private Booking 7-10pm
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Reining Alberta Clinic
FAMILY DAY
Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm
Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm
Open Ride 1-5pm
Open Ride 1-4pm
Silver Valley 4H – 7:00-9:00pm - Arena
Private Booking 7-10pm
Don Laing Trailer Barrel Racing Jackpot #8 – 7pm
Open Ride – 9am-Noon Private Booking 1-6pm Private Booking 7-10pm Large arena Ranch Roping – 7-10pm small arena
Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm Open Ride 1-6pm Open & Family Ride/ Build a Better Horse 6-9pm
Parkland Area AB Dressage Assoc. (PAADA)
23 Parkland Area AB Dressage Assoc. (PAADA)
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Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm
Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm
Open Ride 1-5pm
Open Ride 1-5pm
PAECS AGM – 7pm
Private Booking 7-10pm
67.00-86.00 NONE 31.00-
26 Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm Open Ride 1-5pm
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Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm Open Ride 1-6pm Private Booking 7-10pm Large arena Ranch Roping – 7-10pm small arena
Barrel practice/open ride 9am-1pm Open Ride 1-6pm Open & Family Ride/ Build a Better Horse 6-9pm
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Page 26 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA MINOR HOCKEY
Minor hockey looks to expand numbers By Mustafa Eric
All is well on the Ponoka Minor Hockey Association front with the top challenge remaining as the attraction of more kids to the sport, as described by Julie Feragen, the vice-president of Ponoka Minor Hockey. “We would like to see more kids growing into, coming into minor hockey for sure, “ said Feragen, speaking in an interview at the bleachers at the
Ponoka Cultural and Recreation Complex. A hockey mom herself, she was handing out Ponoka Stampeders jerseys to other hockey moms who were at the rink to support their kids in the Peewee A Stampeders’ game against their visiting opponents from Red Deer. “We offer one year free hockey after registration with Ponoka Minor Hockey and we hope this (incentive) will bring more kids to us.”
With some $18,000 under their belt raised at this year’s fundraiser event, a night with dueling pianists at the Stagecoach Saloon at the Stampede Grounds, Feragen says they are doing just fine as a minor hockey association. “Our fundraisers do very well every year, they have been very successful three years in-a row.” “We are working with the town and county, we are getting our names out there and hoping that they are going to
help us build our numbers. With new councils on both sides, we are hoping that we can work as a group.” Feragen also expressed satisfaction with the level of corporate sponsorships and said they had no immediate plans to change the jerseys for the teams. But what she is most happy with and thankful for is the support they get from the community in terms of coaching. continued on page 27
MIGHTY MITES - Tim Hortons
MITES - Tim Hortons
FRONT ROW: Courtlyn Padgham, Eli Richter, Ethan Malterer, Lucas Busat, Gavin Quine MIDDLE ROW: Kingston Mydonick, Cole Williamson, Kahl McLean, Doc Wiancko, Jase Mathesan, Reed Sutley, Mason Gratrix BACK ROW: Coach Koman Busat, Mark Richter MISSING: Tayton Semenuk, Andrew Brackenbury, Trax Burechailo, Team manager Holly Wiancko
FRONT ROW: Declan McLaughlin, Kian McLean, Kaydence Schmidt, Rylan Owen, Carson Mcinnes, Lennon Buffalo MIDDLE ROW: Gary MacLaren (Coach), Ashton Thebeau, Jackson Badry, Eric Shin, Sean MacLaren, Mckalum Senft, Nicole Owen (Manager) BACK ROW: Spencer Kardish, Finn Nelson, Reece Holt, Matias Czapp, Mason McMurrer MISSING: Nathan Kardish
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Ponoka Kinsmen Club
Northcott Care Centre 4209 - 48 Ave • 403-783-4764
NOVICE - Wedin’s Team & Corporate
NOVICE - Big Country Energy Services
FRONT ROW: Xander Raby, Carter Karwandy, Carter Blanchard, Karlee Feragen, Nevin Thompson, Trace Tonneson, Daylan Owen BACK ROW: John Owen (Ass’t Coach), Carson Richter, Wyatt Avery, Luke Simanton, Lucas Berg, Jaiden Bandet, Marek Richter (Coach) MISSING: Anita Berg (Manager), Shane Avery (Ass’t Coach)
FRONT ROW: Kormac Bresee, Devin Peterson, Jestin Jacklin, Hunter Mydonick, Reannah Wood, Brock Auclair, Carter McDowell MIDDLE ROW: Nathan Parker, Logan Heidt, Ezekiel Pambrun, Jakub Palechek, Dylan Jones BACK ROW: Brad Peterson, Scott Bresee, Roxanne Peterson, Chris Palechek
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Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 27
PONOKA MINOR HOCKEY Strong coaching for PMHA Continued from page 26
He shoots, he scores! Luke Simanton of Wedin’s Warriors scores against Clive Blackhawks’ Jan. 25. Photo by Mustafa Eric
“We have some really good coaches this year, “ Feragen said. “Some of them are not even parents, they don’t have children in minor hockey. Despite that, they have stepped up and they have been coaching. Our Bantam coach and assistant coach, they don’t have any children in minor hockey. And same thing with the Midget A team, the coach doesn’t have any children.”
Feragen hopes that Ponoka Minor Hockey teams have a good chance of advancing in the provincial tournaments this year. With both Peewee A and Peewee B having been accepted to the provincial playdowns in addition to both Midget teams alongside the Bantam and Lacoka Bantam girls team competing, chances for medals are there for Ponoka kids to grab.
ATOM A - Quality Paint & McDonalds
ATOM B - Calnash Trucking (South) Ltd
FRONT ROW: Gavin Allen-Prefontaine, Josh David, Alex Brackenbury, Zachary Rausch, Daniel Aitken MIDDLE ROW: Kyden Busat, Adam Hoag, Sam Evans, Kael Street, Colter Bresee, Jace Jacklin BACK ROW: Maison Senft, Levi Busat, Parker Rice, Braedan Brouilette, Hailey Huchkowski, Cassandra Klinger COACHES: Dean Brackenbury, Mark Prefontaine, Steve Rausch
FRONT ROW: Reece Kardish, Kobe Schmidt, Cali Gulka, Max Underhill MIDDLE ROW: Alex Tatlow, Tyler Shoemaker, GeoffTatlow (Coach), Blake Harris, Evan Kraft BACK ROW: Austin Griffiths, Ashton Bandet, Levi Harbin, Kevin Kammer, Duston Louis, Wyatt Wiancko MISSING: Dex Wager, Bruce Harbin (Ass’t Coach), Harley Shoemaker (Ass’t Coach)
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CALNASH TRUCKING SOUTH LTD. 6403-44 Ave. • 403-783-3456
4419 - Hwy 2A, Ponoka • 403-783-8927
403-783-8866 • 6526 – 44 Ave., Ponoka
PEEWEE A - B.P.O. Elks
PEEWEE B - McDonalds
FRONT ROW: Jared Rice, Reagan Rabbit, Madison McLaren, Jaymee Klinger, Jayden Nokohoo, Rylan Lefebvre MIDDLE ROW: Noah Hackett, Luke Bonnett, Jake Simanton, Karson Cline, Owen Feragen, Emmet Nom, Hunter Busat, Seth Gratrix, Aidan Gratton, Jared Bussiere BACK ROW: Ken Hackett (A. Coach), Bryan Bonnett (A. Coach), Alain Bussiere (A. Coach), Luc Gratton (Head Coach), Trevor Feragen (A. Coach)
FRONT ROW: Ethan Little, Thomas Chesterman, Cyle Laing, Connor Macleod, Travis Hyink, Ethan Sharp MIDDLE ROW: Brenden Patterson, Nick Mercer, Zachary Little, Connor Hoag, Amanda Huchkowski, Kaiden Thomson, Cody Fox, Tysean Soosay, Josh Baptiste, Braeden Toporowski, BACK ROW: Lynden Klinger (Ass’t Coach), Joel Hollingsworth, Daniel Huchkowski (Ass’t Coach), Curtis Huchkowski (Head Coach), Jamie Kim, Justin Hall (Ass’t Coach), MISSING: Billy Toporowski (Ass’t Coach)
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Page 28 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA MINOR HOCKEY Mighty Mites taste the excitement of competitive hockey By Mustafa Eric Ponoka’s newest minor hockey team, Mighty Mites, had their first competitive game on Saturday, Jan 25 against Lacombe Rockets and scored a couple of goals, bringing a lot of smiles to the watchful faces of parents and spectators. The group of 4 and 5 five-yearolds had a rather shy beginning to their first proper game against a visit-
ing team with the goalie in particular finding it a little bit challenging to move from side to side to block the incoming shots. Koman Busat, the coach of the Mites, said his most important and challenging task was to be able to build the skills of the little kids while at the same time allowing them to have the maximum fun they can in getting used to hockey. “We have a group of 12 kids,“
said Busat. “We are just trying to teach them the fundamentals, how to skate, handle the puck, that is basic skills development right now, and having fun. That is the biggest thing to have.” Busat admitted that teaching fundamental skills while trying to ensure that the kids also have fun was difficult at times because learning how to skate and move the puck at the same time was putting pressure on the children. “I just keep telling them that it is just fun and that the more they practice the better they
get.” Only two kids in the whole group are in their second year of hockey and Busat says sometimes differences in the kids’ individual abilities allow them to stand out among others faster. “Due to their size and ability to balance, some kids are progressing faster.” At the end of the game, Busat was quite happy despite the not-so-stellar scoreboard for the local side. “This is a learning experience and for their first game they did really well.”
BANTAM A - Loyal Order of Moose
FRONT ROW: Alex Mercer, Jason Rausch (Ass’t Coach), Dean Louis Sr. (Ass’t Coach), Kelly Jones (Manager), Rod Mercer (Ass’t Coach), Dwayne Rausch (Coach), Justin Hyink MIDDLE ROW: Cooper Rice, Clay Podritske, Sam Neath, Cooper Jones, Jayden Hagemann, Rylee DeJonge, Cyrus Thompson, Tyler Hoar, Driston Louis, Noah Spelrem, Rian vanDerWesthuizen BACK ROW: Lewis McDowell, Dean Louis Jr., Levi Robinson, Josh Vold, Sean Rowland, Robert Wareham * THIS SPACE PROVIDED BY THE FOLLOWING COMMUNITY-MINDED ORGANIZATION *
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Ponoka’s Mighty Mites hockey team enjoyed their first competitive game last weekend against the Lacombe Rockets. Here a Ponoka player watches on while a Rockets player prepares to pass the puck. Photo by Mustafa Eric
MIDGET A - Fountain Tire
MIDGET B - Wespro
FRONT ROW: Aaron Lamb, Cole Levesque (Ass’t Coach), Ryan Koehli(Head Coach), Marlon Wombold (Ass’t Coach), Leeland Averill. MIDDLE ROW: Jordan Wombold, Ian Ferguson, Jared Davis, Denver Nom, Matthew Klimec, Kellyn Pritchard, Tyson Borg, Cody Pambrum, Tyler Ekeli BACK ROW: Tyson Matejka, Dustin Bell, Colton Somerville, Dustin Tebb, Daniel Bergsma, Chase Staldeker, Riley Workman, James Jansen. MISSING: Marc Kallal(Ass’t Coach)
FRONT ROW: Taylor Hart, Chad Cissell, Rodger Rowland, Dwight Hunks, Ashton Sandin MIDDLE ROW: Lane Jones, Zach Morrow, Daniel Huchkowski, Justin Hall, Pierce Clemmer, Adam Rowland, Shawn Wilton, Shane Epp BACK ROW: Logan Abrassart, Braeden Korchinski, Jarret Henderson, Owen Leighton, Brett Cissell, Regan Hunks, Ethan Dueck
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Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 29
MINOR HOCKEY
PMHA works closely with town to improve the arena By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye After four years as treasurer of the Ponoka Minor Hockey Association (PMHA), Tim Rowland’s opinion of the organization continues to be positive. His own son plays on a Ponoka team and Rowland feels kids gain valuable life-skills while at the same time learning to play the game. “I think the hockey program’s got a lot of merit for kids’ development.” Although he never played hockey as a child, Rowland says the competitive nature of the sport helps players when they get older. Many successful businesspeople have hockey backgrounds, said Rowland, which provides them with a drive to succeed. One thing the PMHA has been working on is increasing its number of users. To do that all first year players to minor hockey have their first year of sports fees waived, explained Rowland. He feels all the sports groups in Ponoka are seeing a general decline in registration and suggests the town’s population needs to grow before recreation groups can see an increase. By waiv-
ing a player’s first year hockey fees, Rowland said they may enjoy it enough to continue on with the program. Last year the PMHA worked closely with the Town of Ponoka to improve the arena at the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex. The association purchased a new score clock and sound barrier between the two rinks, and referee room was upgraded, explained Rowland. The work put the group in a deficit for the year but Rowland said the board expected the shortfall. “We’re very happy with the improvements that were made to date.” The group is also pleased with the town’s improvements to the arena over recent years. The expansion of the arena to include change rooms and an external room that has access to the Scott Seaman’s Outdoor rink have made hosting tournaments a source of pride for PMHA. The majority of the registration fees go towards renting ice at the arena and Rowland says the cost is approximately $90,000 to $100,000. Their earnings for PMHA fees are about $90,000 so there is usually a shortfall. Rowland said com-
pared to other associations, Ponoka is charging lower fees than municipalities such as Sylvan Lake and Lacombe. To make up for the loss, PMHA usually has one large fundraiser each year. Previously the group had a raffle sale but this year they hosted the dueling pianos gala, which sold out quickly. “Plans are under way to do something like that for next year,” said Rowland. He is grateful to the parents and corporate sponsors for their support. Rowland said PMHA jerseys get replaced every year through $6,000 to $7,000 of corporate sponsorship.
When reporting game statistics at the North Central Minor Hockey Association (NCMHA) website, Ponoka News uses the names provided on the website. The NCMHA generally shows the names of the teams by their category rather than a team name and category. While the teams’ names do not get showcased as much, Rowland said he would speak with the board to ensure those sponsors are appreciated. The PMHA intends to undergo a second phase of improvements at the arena but Rowland could not say what that would look like.
LACOKA ATOM GIRLS - Legacy Ford Ponoka
FRONT: Cassandra Grabo, Kirsten Krzywy, Kate Hollingsworth, Aliyah Klassen MIDDLE: Emma O’brien, Kenadee Pimm, Tenial Hunt, Kaisy Huber BACK: Olivia Willier, Chloe Wilton, Sarah Barnes, Camryn Willier COACH’S: Renee Huber & Tom Barnes MISSING: Sayha Mackeinzo & Coach’s Lucas Willier, Mike O’brien & Cody Pimm * THIS SPACE PROVIDED BY THE FOLLOWING COMMUNITY-MINDED BUSINESS * Taking a chance: Brock Auclair watches as Jakub Palechek, of the Big Country Energy Services novice team attempts a goal against the Kneehill Chiefs goalie last weekend. The Chiefs won 5-4. Photo by Mustafa Eric
LACOKA BANTAM GIRLS - Battle River Insurance
BACK: Brooke McBurney, Meg Crawford, Camryn Fedor, Rachael Wood, Danielle Blacklock MIDDLE: Montana Klassen, Heather Schellenberg, Katrina Fisher, Ivy Woolf, Cassie Hall FRONT: Abby Sim, Megan Bailey, Callie Braun, Lindsay Jansen, Kelli Rae Sieben COACH: Peter Hall, Asst. Coach Mark Sieben MISSING: Jaymie Klinger and coach Tim Falkiner * THIS SPACE PROVIDED BY THE FOLLOWING COMMUNITY-MINDED BUSINESS *
Battle River Insurance Ltd. representing
Bay 3, 5103 - 48 Avenue 403-783-3987
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BACK: Torrie Craig, Brynn Braat, Emily McLennan, Hannah Allin, Renee Guimond MIDDLE: Jesse Stretch, Danica Polson, Alyssa Klinger, Kallie Nelson FRONT: Jayde Rehbein, Hannah Stretch, Robyn Arnold, Amanda Burt COACHES: Randy Burt, Darcy Arnold * THIS SPACE PROVIDED BY THE FOLLOWING COMMUNITY-MINDED BUSINESS *
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Page 30 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
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Minor hockey competition moves to decisive phase By Amelia Naismith With the hockey season well past the halfway point, competition at both the league and provincial levels is approaching the decisive phase with title contenders starting to seriously revisit their game plans and stepping up their efforts. Several Ponoka minor hockey teams have already played their first series in provincial playdowns and at the league level, playoff boards have been drawn. In league action, a busy weekend led to many mixed results for the minor hockey teams of Ponoka and Maskwacis. Atom Tier 3 Ponoka Atom A team beat the Sundre Atom Huskies, 9-6, in an away game on Jan. 25 Joshua David and Colter Bresee scored twice, while Levi Busat scored three times. Kael Street and Gavin Allen-Prefontaine each earned a goal, bringing the number up to nine. The following day, the boys won another away game after beating the Innisfail Servus Flyers 13-2. Levi Busat scored four times and Colter Bresee earned himself a hat trick. Kael Street and Gavin Allen-Prefontaine both scored twice while Joshua David and Braedan Broullett both brought in one goal. Atom Tier 4 Maskwacis Atom C team lost Jan. 25 to Castor in a 12-4 away game. Tyrikis Buffalo scored three times and Leland
Regan Hunks of Ponoka Midget B scores the second goal against West Country Chiefs on Saturday, Jan. 25 in their provincial playdown challenge on home ice. Photo by Mustafa Eric Swampy grabbed one goal. Atom Tier 5 Ponoka Atom B beat the Bowden Atom Blades 5-0. Austin Griffiths, Ashton Bandet and Luke Siamonton each scored one with Kevin Krammer scoring twice. Peewee Tier 1 Maskwacis Peewee A Chiefs won
Like musketeers at work, Joshua Wold and Lewis McDowell of Ponoka Bantam A Stampeders cross their sticks against a Devon Drillers player’s to wrest the control of the puck in their provincial game on Sunday, Jan. 26. Photo by Mustafa Eric
their Jan. 24 home game against the Sylvan Lake Peewee Lakers. During the 8-2 game Ethan Smallboy nabbed himself a hat trick, Carson Baptiste earned two goals and Kaeden Laropue, William Buffalo and Rhodes Buffalo each scored once. The Ponoka Peewee A team lost 5-2 against the Bentley Peewee A Bruins, Jan. 25. Rylan Lefebvre and Noah Hackett each scored once. Peewee Tier 4 Ponoka Peewee B boys also lost their away game to the Castor Peewee Cyclones; 6-1 on Jan 26. Braeden Toporowski scored the team’s only goal. Peewee Tier 5 Maskwacis Peewee B lost 6-3 on Jan. 25 to the Stettler Peewee C team. Pierce Cutarm, Cole Brown and Elias Morin each scored once during the away game. Bantam Tier 2 Ponoka Bantam boys beat the Camrose Bantam A Warriors 8-2 in an away game, Jan. 25. Jayden Hagemann and Lewis McDowell both scored twice. Noah Spelrem, Josh Vold, Dean Lois Jr. and Rian vanDerWesthuizen all scored once each. Bantam Tier 4 Maskwacis Bantam B team lost in a Jan. 24 home game to Rocky Bantam B, 9-8. Isaiah Deschamps and Gordon Minde Jr both scored twice. Ashton Buffalo, Chance White, Jordan Macki-
naw, Kean Littlechild all earned one goal apiece. The following day the team lost to the Red Deer Sims 6-2 in an away game. Isaiah Deschamps and Tristan Ward both scored once. Midget Tier 1 Ponoka Midget A Wolves lost their Jan. 25 away game 3-1 to the Innisfail Kinsmen Flyers. Matthew Klimec scored the team’s only goal. Midget Tier 1 Maskwacis Midget A Chiefs tied 4-4 on Jan. 25 against the Rimbey Midget A Renegades. Ignatius Cattleman and Nolan Lightning both scored twice. The next day the team beat the Stettler Midget B boys one their home ice, 6-5. Ignatius Cattlemen scored twice with Cole Swampy, Nolan Lightning, Bret Bull and George Montour bringing the number to six. Atom Female Lacoka girls tied 2-2 with the Maskwacis team in the Four Nations Arena on Jan. 25. Chloe Wilton and Camryn Willier scored for Lacoka while Taylynn Littlepoplar and Jayliese SwampyMontour scored for Maskwacis. continued on page 31
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 31
Minor hockey….. Continued from page 30 Peewee Female Maskwacis girls lost 8-4 in a home game against the Leduc Peewee Females, Jan 25. Anika Deschamps-Cross, Eliyah Raine, Shelisha Baptiste and Brandee Strongman all scored once. The following day the girls lost 5-1 to the Sylvan Lake Atom/Peewee Female Lakers in an away game. Anika Deschamps-Cross scored the team’s only goal. Bantam/Midget Female Lacoka Bantam girls lost 6-3 in a Jan. 25 away game against the Stettler Bantam team. Rachael Wood, Danielle Blacklock and Kelli Rae Sieben all scored once. The following day the girls won 2-0 in a home game against the Winfield Bantam Female team. Megan Bailey and Lindsay Johnson grabbed the team’s goals. On Jan. 25 the Maskwacis Bantam girls lost 13-0 to Endmoor in an away game. As for the provincial playdowns, Lacoka Bantam/Midget Female team won a convincing defeat in their first provincial game against Maskwacis girls with a score of 16-0 on Friday. Peewee A Ponoka team was matched with Red Deer Elites in their first provincial series and they lost 4-3 in the away game on Monday, Jan. 20 and tied 3-3 at home on Thursday, Jan. 23. Peewee B Ponoka lost 15-1 to Devon Drillers at home on Friday, Jan. 24. When they traveled to Devon the next day, they had improved their defenses significantly, but they lost with a score of 2-0. As for Bantam Ponoka boys, they beat visitors from Devon handily with a score of 5-1. As Ponoka News was being prepared for print, they were scheduled to play the second game of the series on the road on Monday night, Jan. 27. In another provincial game, Midget B Ponoka beat Spruce View Chiefs 5-2 on Saturday, Jan. 25. New baby in the family? Let friends and family know in the REACH OVER 12,000 READERS!
• RIMBEY • PONOKA
COUNTY CLASSIFIED HOTLINE (403) 783-8550
Jim E. Lysons,A. L. S., P. Eng. ALBERTA LAND SURVEYOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER R.R. #3, PONOKA, ALBERTA T4J 1R3 SUBDIVISIONS, PROPERTY BOUNDARIES, ROAD & DITCH DESIGNS, MUNICIPAL ENGINEERING CONSULTANT
RES: 403-783-6756 CANADIAN
FIREARM SAFETY COURSE
This is the course you need to get your firearms license.
Saturday, Feb. 1, 8 am Ponoka Legion 3911 Hwy 2A Non-restricted course and exam $120 Restricted Firearms exam available $80 Combined $180
To register call Guy 780-461-7686
Rachael Wood of Lacoka Bantam girls seeks yet another opportunity to score against Maskwacis as Ivy Woolf and Katrina Fisher look on during their provincial playdown game on Saturday, Jan. 25 Photo by Mustafa Eric
2014 LACOKA LACROSSE
Long Stay Deluxe 2 bdrm Suites 4205 - 64 St., Ponoka, AB Includes: Fridge, Stove, Fireplace, Air Conditioning, Window Coverings, Oak Cabinetry with Corian Countertops, Balcony, High Security Card Locks. (Fully Furnished Extra).
AGM & REGISTRATION WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM PONOKA ARENA MEETING ROOM
LATE REGISTRATION Wednesday, February 5
7:00 pm • Lacombe Memorial Centre What division do I register in for the 2014 season? Mini-Tyke (players born in 2008/2009) Tyke (players born in 2006/2007) Novice (players born in 2004/2005) PeeWee (players born in 2002/2003) Bantam (players born in 2000/2001) Midget (players born in 1998/1999) Junior (players born 1993/1997)
For more info: www.lacokalacrosse.com
Daily, Weekly, Monthly. No Pets. Call ERNIE at 780-335-6767
Page 32 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
Canadians and Americans… Continued from page 24 The Canada Health Act, on the other hand, calls for universality - all residents must be covered by the public insurance plan run by their province on uniform terms and conditions. They have coverage wherever they are treated in their home province, and there’s none of this stuff about limiting the doctors and hospitals that patients can use as a condition of getting full benefits. In Canada, there are no financial barriers to care at the point of service as there are and will con-
tinue to be in the U.S. Canadians don’t pay coinsurance of 30 per cent or 50 per cent if they have an outpatient procedure or go to an urgent care clinic, charges that are becoming increasingly common in the U.S. They don’t worry about paying a gigantic bill if they happen to use an outof-network doctor or hospital. The publicly-funded system north of the border bases patients’ access to medical services on need, not on the ability to pay. To use the word “ration,” Canadians ration by need;
Ponoka Mixed Bonspiel Feb 14-16, 2014
If you wish to enter a team, there will be a sign up sheet located on the mixed board at the Curling rink. or contact Ron MacMillan at 403-783-6314 or email macmilla@telusplanet.net
PONOKA FISH & GAME ASSOCIATION
2013 ANNUAL FUNDRAISER AWARDS BANQUET Saturday February 1, 2014
Stagecoach Saloon Tickets Cocktails - 5:00pm Silent Dinner - 6:00pm Auction $25 Awards - 7:30pm Table of 8 $160
Dance to follow with live DJ
Enjoy a delectable menu of wild meats and ßsh along with the best Alberta grown pork, beef, etc Get your tickets early as this will help us with how much to prepare
For tickets call Leonard 403-588-2834, Dave 403-704-7126, or any member of Ponoka Fish & Game Association
Americans ration by price and will continue to do so as the ACA is implemented. Because it’s publicly funded, Canadian healthcare is more equitable. There’s no such thing as buying a platinum plan and getting first-rate coverage or a cheapo bronze policy and paying 60 per cent of the bill yourself. The tiered policies available in the state exchanges further bake inequality into the U.S. system. People have wildly varying benefits depending on where they live, how old they are, where they work, and how much they can afford to spend on health insurance. That’s not the case in Canada, except when it comes to prescription drug coverage. Drug benefits are quite unequal in Canada, and the lack of them is a pretty big hole for about 10 per cent of the population. There is no universal drug benefit, although two provinces have mandatory drug insurance - you can get it from an employer or buy it from a public plan. About 40 per cent of the population gets coverage from their employers. If you can’t afford the premium, there are subsidies. In that sense, Canadian drug coverage in those provinces resembles Obamacare. Still, having drug benefits does not necessarily mean adequate coverage, says Globe and Mail health columnist, André Picard: “The big difference
from the rest of Canada’s system is there is very little first-dollar coverage of prescription drugs.” On this trip I heard much more about the social determinants of health than I hear in the U.S. Almost everyone I interviewed mentioned the dismal health stats for aboriginal populations and the need to improve access and quality of care. I tried to remember the last time I heard anyone discuss the medical problems of Native Americans or quality of care provided by the Indian Health Service. I asked Michael Decter, a health policy expert and a former deputy health minister in Ontario, what his wish list for Canadian healthcare was. Topping his list was not more money for the health system; it was more for education aimed at improving the lives of aboriginal peoples. Better education correlates with better health. The second was drug coverage. Canada’s infamous waiting times were not high on his list of priorities. In fact, he didn’t even mention them as a problem. Trudy Lieberman, a former president of AHCJ, is a contributing editor to the Columbia Journalism Review. She is a fellow at the Center for Advancing Health where she blogs about paying for healthcare.
Thank Y You! ou!
PONOKA MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING FOR THE DONATIONS TO “DUELING PIANOS” FUNDRAISER EVENT ON JANUARY 18, 2014 Cervus Equipment SIRRS LLP - Wetaskiwin Platinum Insurance – Red Deer Winnipeg Jets Wedins Team & Corporate Hamilton’s IGA Hammys Spirits CR Investments Tantec Electronics Shandall Plumbing Rhyden Construction Julie Feragen Red Deer Rebels U of C Dinos – Janelle Parent Bower Place Shopping Center Calaway Park Dr. Leslie Gill MGM Land Services Keyera Breanne Parker – Scentsy Rep Mike & Michelle Dejonge DDK Construction Darcy’s Drilling Wolf Creek Golf Resort Big Country Energy Ponoka Car Wash Shoppers Drug Mart Strand Printing Julie’s Travel Legacy Ford - Ponoka Rexall Drugs Don Lewis Jones Agencies
Tim Hortons Sure Shot Welding – Maury Gratrix Rowland Parker & Associates Cilantro & Chive Ponoka Chrysler Red Hot Threads – Lacombe Just My Style – Jen McLaren Norn Consulting Ponoka Bottle Depot Capitol Theatre Dr. Rick Barr Ponoka Community Golf Course McDonalds Rip N Ronnies The Brick Flowers For You Denham Ford – Wetaskiwin Willie Jones TravelOnly – Sue Lamb Mark Matejka – County Councilor County of Ponoka Twisted Label The Hair Loft Prairie Boys Car Wash Chad Cissell The Liquor Store Direct Travel & Cruise Center Ponoka News Larry Baird Bob Ronnie
Thank you to Everyone – Town and County who made this Event a Great Success!!!
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Obituaries
SEBRY 1938 - 2014
LOUISE MARIE BERG
FAZEL (Rawji) Fatima Fazel passed away peacefully in Calgary surrounded by family on January 2, 2014 at the age of 74 years. She was born November 9, 1939 in Zanzibar, East Africa and raised in Nairobi, Kenya where as a child, she loved to play field sports and do gymnastics, climb trees and roof tops where she could pursue her passion for reading without being disturbed! She obtained her Teaching certificate in Nairobi, Kenya where she taught at the Aga Khan Primary School. She then furthered her education in Exeter, England, only to return to East Africa to continue teaching. She was married in 1962 to Jimmy Rawji and in 1965 came the arrival of her first born, Rouzbeh. While times were hard politically in Africa and opportunities existed abroad the three packed up, leaving every family member they had, and came to Canada to settle in Bluffton, Alberta. She taught in Bluffton and in 1971 (after moving to Rimbey) added a set of twins, Jamil and Ashna, to the threesome. In 1973 the family relocated to Ponoka where Fatima taught at the Ponoka Elementary School until she was forced to retire due to health reasons in 1998. Because of her love for teaching and her passion for nature she had a tree planted at the school in honor of her retirement. At this point, Fatima changed her last name back to her maiden name and in the summer of 2001 decided to relocate to Calgary to be closer to her siblings and her Jamat Khana (prayer house) but still continued to make regular trips back to Red Deer and Ponoka to see her grandchildren. She loved her grandchildren dearly and was excited to see and talk to them almost every day. She would often send pictures of birds, sunsets, flowers and animals with a message of how those precious things reminded her of her grandchildren. She loved the outdoors and admired natures’ beauty and truly enjoyed sharing this admiration with the grandchildren. Fatima was very witty, wise and giving. She had a quiet and unassuming disposition about her but one always knew that if ever someone was in need for whatever reason - she would be there in whatever capacity - no matter what. She even had some of her former student’s remark that they would not have continued their studies had it not been for her encouragement and resourceful teaching. She had much to give to her entire family - siblings, children and grandchildren. She shared many thoughts, beliefs and encouraged all of her family to be as selfless as possible. She was extremely spiritual and this was the main reason for her independence and her ability to defy the odds of her diagnosis. She never gave up hope and persevered until it was no longer possible and left it to God for Him to take care of her. We will miss her dearly. Fatima will be lovingly remembered by her son Rouzbeh; daughter Ashna, and grandchildren Ziara and Zayne; son Jamil (Katrina) and grandchildren Janaya, Keyana and Jayce; two sisters; four brothers; and many loving nephews and nieces. She was predeceased by two sisters and her parents. A traditional Ismaili funeral was conducted in Calgary on January 8th, 2014. Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to Aga Khan Foundation Canada (www.akfc.ca) or to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Obituaries
Louise Marie Berg was suddenly taken from us on January 15, 2014. Louise will be remembered and missed by her loving husband Elmer and their children, Marie (Donald) Linda and Charles Bauer, Denise Sumner (Blane), Jay (Deb) Jesse and Nastashia Sumner, Ann S u m n e r, B e t h S u m n e r (Wes) Ange, (Ryan) Brandy. As well as her sisters Verna (Gordon) Wahn, Donna (Dave) Friesen, loving caregiver Maria, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Louise was predeceased by her loving parents, her son Charles and her 1st husband Jack Sumner. Louise was born in Vilna, AB October 1, 1931. Louise lived in various locations before settling in Ponoka where she met and married Elmer and raised their children on their farm east of Ponoka. Louise was an avid gardener and a long standing member of the Concord Ladies Group. Louise worked at various jobs before retiring from AHP. Louise was loved and will be sadly missed by her family, and her many friends and neighbors. Louise will be fondly remembered for her beautiful smile and warm greetings. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at the Ponoka Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta. To express condolences to Louise’s family, please visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements Entrusted To PONOKA FUNERAL HOME ~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~
It is with great sadness that we share with you, the loss of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Elsie Sebry of Lacombe, who passed away at the Lacombe Extended Care Unit on Sunday, January 19, 2014 at the age of 75 years. Elsie is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Floyd; sons Larry (Shelley), Randy (Shelley), Darcy (Cynthia) and daughter Karen Schultz. Also to cherish Elsie’s memory are six grandchildren Darcy (Judy), Derek (Jess), Miranda, Jolena (Caleb) Destine (Steve), Levi; eight great-grandchildren and numerous family members. A Celebration of Elsie’s life was held January 27, 2014. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the David Thompson Health Trust (Lacombe Extended Care Unit), 3942-50A Ave, Red Deer AB T4N 4E7. Condolences to Elsie’s family may be emailed to meaningfulmemorials@yahoo.ca MEANINGFUL MEMORIALS Funeral Service Red Deer 587-876-4944
Celebrations
Happy 65th Birthday Marilyn! The family invites you to help celebrate Thursday, February 6th 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. at St. Mary’s Anglican Church Hall Pot luck Everyone Welcome. No gifts please.
In Memoriam
GORDON CARBERT
Card Of Thanks
Feb. 11, 1921 - Feb. 3, 2012 Gone but not forgotten Miss you always Loving wife, Mary
CELEBRATE YOUR MARRIAGE With a Milestone Announcement • 1.877.223.3311
The entire family of Fatima Fazel would like to thank everyone who expressed condolences, visited my dad, and sent cards, flowers, food, donations, prayers and keepsakes for memories. We are very fortunate to be a part of such a wonderful and caring community. Mom often talked fondly of her memories that she made in Bluffton, Rimbey and especially here in Ponoka and we are truly grateful. Thanks to all of our friends and neighbours for your kindness and support. It was truly appreciated during this difficult time.
Jamil Rawji
Page 34 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
Meetings
Obituaries
What’s Happening
GAIRDNER Gloria J. Gairdner of Ponoka, Alberta passed away at the Northcott Care Centre, Ponoka on Thursday, January 16, 2014 at the age of 68 years. Gloria was born to Gordon and Jean Levers in Edmonton on December 17, 1945. She attended school in Breton and did light housekeeping and babysat for teachers for many years. Gloria also helped to look after the tiny tots in the town’s playground. On March 5, 1981, she was united in marriage to Pierre Gairdner. He passed away a few years later in April, 1986. Gloria relocated from Edmonton to Rimbey in 1994, where she enjoyed helping seniors at the Parkland Manor. She also took great pleasure in knitting and some crocheting. Gloria will be lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her brother, Donald Levers of Sacramento, California; as well as a number of extended family members. She was predeceased by her husband, Pierre; her father, Gordon Levers in 2002; and her mother, Jean Levers in 2011. With respect for Gloria’s wishes, no formal Funeral Service will be held. Cremation took place at the Central Alberta Crematorium, Red Deer. If friends desire, memorial tributes in Gloria’s Memory may be made directly to the charity of one’s choice. Condolences to the Family may also be expressed by email to: special_reflections@telusplanet.net Cremation Arrangements for the Late Gloria J. Gairdner entrusted to the care of OBERHAMMER FUNERAL CHAPELS Rimbey, AB. 1-403-843-4445
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Arts & Crafts Shows ..................50 Class Registrations....................51 Coming Events ..........................52 Lost ............................................54 Found ........................................56 Companions ..............................58 Personals...................................60 Bingos........................................64 Fitness & Sports ........................66 Happy Ads .................................70
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
52
Coming Events
PONOKA MINOR BALL REGISTRATION & AGM Thursday, March 6 at 7 pm Ponoka Legion, 3911 Hwy 2A Softball & baseball – ages starting with 2011 birthdates Volunteers & coaches needed
Everyone Welcome!
BIG BROTHERS AND BIG SISTERS
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Monday, Feb 24 at 7pm Calnash Trucking Ag Centre
ALATEEN
Weekly meetings Tuesdays @ 8 p.m. Neighborhood Place 5115 49 Ave. Ponoka For more info. 403-783-4557 or 403-783-8371 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Monday night meetings at the Anglican Church Ponoka 8:30 p.m. Phone 403-783-0719 for info. THURSDAY AA Meetings at 8:30 p.m. in the Catholic Church basement. 52 Street & 52 Ave. Ponoka. Open meetings first Thursday of the month, Everyone Welcome. 403-783-4347
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BURKE Big sisters Sara and Kenadie are excited to announce the arrival of their litle brother Conner Vincent Burke on Sept. 3, 2013.
People who can play a character in these age groups: • One woman, two men in their 50s or 60s • Two women, two men in their 20s
1.877.223.3311
Janitorial
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INNISFAIL LIONS CLUB is looking to hire caretakers for Anthony Henday Campground for upcoming season starting May 1. Interested party’s please call 403-358-8135 or 403-357-9654.
Medical
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RDAII required in Three Hills, Alberta. Full-time, Monday - Thursday. One year maternity leave. Email resume: drjckerr@hotmail.com or fax 403-443-5850. Questions? Phone 403-443-5820. THERE IS A CRITICAL need for Medical Transcriptionists across Canada. Work from home. CanScribe graduates welcome and encouraged to apply. Apply through MTR at www.hds-mt.com/jobs.
Oilfield
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Experienced Oilfield Construction Lead Hands Experienced Oilfield Construction Labourers Alstar Oilfield is looking for highly motivated individuals to join our Team in Hinton. Alstar has been serving the oil and gas construction industry since 1969. Modular Assembly Experience is an Asset If you have a Desire to be Part of a Growing Company Please apply on our Career Section on our website www.alstaroilfield.com “Committed to enriching the lives of our workforce, while Providing quality energy construction solutions” Looking for a new pet? Check out Classifieds to find the purrfect pet.
LANGAN SITE SERVICES LTD.
in Ponoka county, supplies oilfield septic containment & disposal throughout AB. We require Driver Operators for small vac trucks. Oilfield exp. is an asset. Must have H2S, First Aid, TDG, clean driver’s abstract & Class 5 license, drug testing. $20/ hr. to start, home every night, benefits. Fax resume to Dan 403-704-1127 or email: dan@ langansiteservices.com Classifieds Your place to SELL Your place to BUY
NOW HIRING CLASS 1 DRIVERS to transport dangerous goods for oilfield service company in northern Alberta. Competitive wages, benefits and lodging. Experience hauling fluids preferred. Email: dispatch@brekkaas.com. TOO MUCH STUFF? Let Classifieds help you sell it.
403.783.3311
QUALITY ASSURANCE COURSE for Health Canada’s Commercial Marijuana Program. February 22 & 23, Best Western Hotel, Kelowna, BC. Tickets: www.greenlineacademy.com or 1-855-860-8611 or 250-870-1882
KIARA DAWN KJENNER
Employment #700 - #920
Caregivers/Aides................710 Clerical ..............................720 Computer Personnel ..........730 Dental ................................740 Estheticians........................750 Hair Stylists ........................760 Janitorial ............................770 Legal ..................................780 Medical ..............................790 Oilfield ................................800 Professionals......................810 Restaurant/Hotel ................820 3611 Hwy 2A, Ponoka Sales & Distributors ..........830 AL-ANON WEEKLY MEETING Teachers/Tutors..................840 Trades ................................850 FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF ALCOHOLICS. Truckers/Drivers ................860 Business Opportunities......870 Tuesdays 8 p.m. Miscellaneous ....................880 Neighborhood Place Volunteers Wanted ............890 5115 - 49 Ave., Ponoka For more info 403-783-4557 Positions Wanted ..............895 Employment Training ........900 Career Planning ................920
Personals
Mentors
Oilfield
$2500 Bonus Every 100 days
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Night Foremen, Day & Night Operators Must have H2S, First Aid, valid driver’s license. Pre-employment Drug screening Competitive Wages. Benefit Package Please submit resume with references to: apply@wespro.ca or by fax to (403) 783-8004 Only individuals selected for interviews will be contacted
Sylvan Lake. Openings for Bed truck drivers and winch tractor. Top wages and benefits. Email resume tom@roncooilfield.ca or fax. 403-887-4892
Tired of Standing? Find something to sit on in Classifieds
TANKMASTER RENTALS req’s Exp’d Class 1 Fluid Haulers for Central Alberta. Oilfield tickets req’d. Competitive wages and benefits. admin@tankmaster.ca or fax 403-340-8818
TREELINE WELL SERVICES
Has Opening for all positions! Immediately. All applicants must have current H2S, Class 5 with Q Endorsement, (No GDL licenses) and First Aid. We offer competitive wages & excellent benefits. Please include 2 work reference names and numbers. Please fax resume to: 403-264-6725 Or email to: tannis@treelinewell.com No phone calls please. www.treelinewell.com
TRANSFER OILFIELD SERVICES requires a Class 1 Fluid Hauling Driver and a Class 3 Driver. Please call 780-268-4444 or email: t.o.s@hotmail.ca WANTED: Experienced Oilfield & Gas Operators. For camp & non camp operations. Please send resume to: pocketacesproduction @yahoo.ca.
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
AG EQUIPMENT
PONOKA NEWS Page 35
800
Oilfield
WINCH TRACTOR OPERATORS. Must have experience operating a winch. To apply fax, email or drop off resume at the office. Phone 780-842-6444. Fax 780-842-6581. Email: rigmove@telus.net. Mail: H&E Oilfield Services Ltd., 2202 - 1 Ave., Wainwright, AB, T9W 1L7. For more employment information see our webpage: www.heoil.com.
Rimbey Implements Ltd.
Al York
General Manager Cell: (403) 783-0593 Bus: (403) 843-3700
Rimbey, AB
Fax: (403) 843-3430
ANIMAL SERVICES
Professionals
810
JOURNALISTS, Graphic Artists, Marketing and more. Alberta’s weekly newspapers are looking for people like you. Post your resume online. Free. Visit: www.awna.com/ resumes_add.php
Restaurant/ Hotel
820
X-STATIC
is now accepting applications for P/T
MALE SEARCH & SECURITY PERSONNEL
850
GPRC, Fairview Campus, Alberta needs Power Engineering Instructors. No teaching experience, no problem. Please contact Brian Carreau at 780-835-6631 and/or visit our website at www.gprc.ab.ca.
SKIDSTEER SERVICES
Teachers/ Tutors
SHERBA SKIDSTEER SERVICES • Snow Removal • Commercial & Residential • General Bobcat Service Reliable | Efficient | Great Service
587-729-0299
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES
A & J AUTOMOTIVE A & J AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR 6701 - 46 Ave. 6701 46 Ave. Ponoka, AB - T4J 1J8 Ponoka, T4J 1J8 (403)AB783-8755 (403) 783-8755 Al Dickhaut Owner/Operator Al Dickhaut Owner/Operator
VET SERVICES VERBRUGGEN Veterinary Services • Beef preg-checking with ultrasound • Mobile service for all large animals • Medication & Vaccines • 24/7 on call
403-704-6650
850
Trades
850
HD LICENSED MECHANIC for the stony Plain/Westlock/ Barrhead area. Must be willing to obtain CVIP licence. Please email or fax applications to: Carillion Canada Inc.; dlefsrud@carillionalberta.ca Fax 780-336-2461. Central Alberta’s Largest Car Lot in Classifieds
Truckers/ Drivers
860
Trades
850
Truckers/ Drivers
860
VAC & STEAM TRUCK OPERATOR. Valid Class 1 or 3, Safety Tickets, Top Wage, Benefits, Camp Work, Experience an Asset. Email/Fax Resume: 780-458-8701, bryksent@telus.net.
PETROFIELD Industries, the Leader in manufacturing Hydrovac trucks, is accepting resumes for the following Something for Everyone Everyday in Classifieds positions: * General Labourers Celebrate your life * Industrial Painters Business * Sandblasters with a Classified * Material Handler ANNOUNCEMENT Opportunities * Automotive Electrical JOURNEYMAN H.D. Technician GET FREE VENDING MECHANIC req’d immed. * Journeyman Welder / MACHINES. for very busy heavy equip. Apprentice Can earn $100,000. + per sales lot in Innisfail. * 2nd Yr Welder with year. All cash-retire in just Wage range $25. - $35/hr Aluminum experience 3 years. Protected territories. to start, depending on exp. Full details call now Preference will be given Visit our website at: 1-866-668-6629. Website: to those with previous www.tornadotrucks.com www.tcvend.com. equipment rental service, for more details. Our lifts and off road Company has an construction equipment enthusiastic fast paced Misc. experience. Fax resume working environment, with to 403-227-5701 or email: advancement possibilities Help bouvier9@telus.net for the motivated person, and offers an excellent PARK PAVING LTD. benefit package. fax in Edmonton has immediate 403-742-5544 openings for a Project e-mail: hr@petrofield.com in Ponoka County is looking for Superintendent, Concrete LABOURERS Superintendent, Shop Foreman, and Heavy Duty COLLECTION TRUCK Truckers/ Mechanics. Send your DRIVERS resume via email to: Drivers We offer full-time year round employment employment, competitive @parkpaving.com wages and employee benefits. or via fax to 780-434-5373 If interested, please contact: Start your career! Michael Haworth See Help Wanted Tel: 780-455-9350 ext. 2 TJ LOGGING OF Cell: 780-499-2029 WHITECOURT, ALBERTA Fax: 780-452-5666 Sylvan Lake. Openings for is accepting resumes for Email: Bed truck drivers and winch experienced heavy duty mhaworth@cuttingedgerubber.com tractor. Top wages and operators, dozer/buncher/ benefits. Email resume hoe/skidder/processor/ tom@roncooilfield.ca delimber for immediate or fax. 403-887-4892 employment. Fax resume 780-778-2428. We change daily Classifieds...costs so little to serve you better. Saves you so much!
870
880
Arnett & Burgess is now accepting applications for the following:
860
Apply in person after 3
Trades
Trades
in Ponoka, has immediate opening for
840
SWAMPERS
The CANADIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL - Abu Dhabi is currently hiring teachers and administrators for the 2014-15 school year
Please submit resumes to 6526 - 44 Ave Ponoka, AB T4J 1J8 Fax: 403-783-3011 or Email:
12345 WHY JOIN OUR TEAM?
Must have experience moving heavy equipment that is related to pipeline construction. Clean abstract. Competitive wage. Benefits available. Please fax resumes to 780-372-4238 Or email to: jobs@abpipeliners.com Misc. Help
880
hr@calnashtrucking.com
9 we are a fully accredited Alberta Education International School 9 tax free salary with housing, airfare, and extras paid for 9 2 hrs of prep time /day for teachers; small classes; great students 9 amazing travel opportunities and cultural experiences 9 outstanding personal and professional growth opportunities
Apply Now
CLASS 1 TRUCK DRIVER
www.cisabudhabi.com
REQUIRED Production Welder Painter Shop Laborer Polisher Full or Part Time Crestomere area BANDIT INDUSTRIES 403-783-4284
DANDY PERMANENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Electrical Enclosure & Power Division
Truckers/ Drivers
860
CAREERS WITH A FUTURE Wetaskiwin Co-op and our branch in Falun is involved in the retailing of petroleum, hardware, lumber and clothing. We also manufacture feed from our feed mill and are presently recruiting for the following position:
Class 1 Truck Driver - Wetaskiwin Co-op Duties:
Qualifications:
• Provide a high level of customer service • Driving truck with trailer or tandem axle truck • Have a clean drivers abstract
• Good work Ethic • Positive Attitude • Class 1 drivers license
Reports Re ports to Delivery Supervisor If you are interested or require additional information, please contact: Al Recknagle 780-387-6715 Email resume & drivers abstract to: arecknagle@wetaskiwincoop.com
4707 - 40th Avenue, Wetaskiwin Alberta, T9A 2B8 Fax 780-352-0297 Deadline for applications Sunday, February 9, 2014
• CNC PROGRAMMER • PART TIME TRUCK DRIVER • TURRET OPERATOR • PANEL SHOP ELECTRICIAN Full Benefit Package & Production Bonuses. Safe, Warm, Modern Working Environment.
Fax or E-mail your resume in confidence to: A.C. Dandy Products Ltd. Fax: 780-352-2249
Email: acdandy@acdandy.com We want to hear from you!
We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
403.783.3311
Page 36 PONOKA NEWS
Misc. Help
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
880
Misc. Help
880
Misc. Help
880
880
Misc. Help
Legal Services
1260
ACADEMIC Express
Ponoka has immediate openings for
Team Members
FT Weekdays - Weekends - Nights Wages $9.95 - $11.00/hr Apply online at thponoka@shaw.ca fax 403.783.5595 or drop off resume
Misc. Help
880 PONOKA, ALBERTA
is hiring:
POST OFFICE MANAGER (full time)
POST OFFICE CLERK (part time)
This is a fantastic opening that allows you the opportunity to provide outstanding customer service while delivering full service retail postal services. The postal outlet is supported by a great team and will be open 7 days a week. Please send resumes to asdm357@shoppersdrugmart.ca
FULL-TIME CRIMINAL RECORD? X-STATIC MEAT CUTTER Think: Canadian pardon. is now accepting ADULT EDUCATION - High Prairie Super A. U.S. travel waiver. applications for P/T AND TRAINING High Prairie Super A is (24 hour record check). MALE SEARCH Divorce? Simple. Fast. recruiting for a Meat Cutter. & SECURITY WINTER START Inexpensive. Debt recovery? The successful candidate PERSONNEL must have thorough Alberta collection to GED PREPARATION Apply in person after 3 knowledge of all aspects of $25,000. Calgary Feb. 10 START meat cutting, and have the 403-228-1300 ability to work quickly and or 1-800-347-2540; www. effectively. Previous retail accesslegalresearch.com. SPRING START Employment meat cutting experience is • C o m m u n i t y S u p p o r t an asset. The successful Training candidate must be able to Misc. Worker Program LEARN FROM HOME. provide a clean security Services Earn from home. clearance. High Prairie • Women in the Trades Huge is a demand for Super A offers competitive Program Medical Transcriptionists. compensation and health Start your online learning benefits package to • Math and Science for today with CanScribe all eligible employees, as the Trades Program Career College; well as the opportunity for www.canscribe.com. personal and professional Gov’t of Alberta Funding 1-800-466-1535; development. If you may be available. info@canscribe.com. believe that you are prepared for this challenging 403-340-1930 position and have an MASSAGE CAREER. www.academicexpress.ca interest in working within a Train full-time or part-time dynamic organization, FULL-TIME at our highly regarded, please submit your MEAT CUTTER progressive school. resume, in confidence to: - High Level Super A. Small classes, High Prairie Super A, 4920 High Level Super A is individual attention, recruiting for a Meat Cutter. - 53 Ave., High Prairie, AB, confident graduates! T0G 1E0. The successful candidate 1-877-646-1018; www. Fax 780-523-5390. Email: albertainstituteofmassage.com must have thorough sean.lee@tgp.ca knowledge of all aspects of meat cutting, and have the ability to work quickly HIGH LEVEL SUPER A and effectively. in Alberta is currently It’s time to call Previous retail meat cutting recruiting for: experience is an asset. Produce Manager. your Welcome The successful candidate Reporting directly to the Wagon hostess. must be able to provide a Store Manager, clean security clearance. the Produce Manager is High Level Super A offers responsible for all aspects She will bring Business Services competitive compensation of operating a successful congratulations and and health benefits #1000 - #1430 produce department package to all eligible including, supervision, gifts for the family employees, as well as the scheduling, ordering, and the NEW BABY! opportunity for personal and receiving, & merchandising. professional development. You must have a minimum If you believe that you are of 3 years retail produce Consulting prepared for this challenging experience, including position and have an management experience WCB HELP If you have interest in working within a with a working knowledge dynamic organization, of gross margins, sales ratios been cut off benefits or feel you have not received the please submit your and expense controls. benefits you are entitled. resume, in confidence to: Excellent customer service Call Norman Zubot Heather Goodwin High Level Super A, 10300 and interpersonal skills are consulting(29yrs WCB - 103 Ave., High Level, AB, essential. It offers a 403-704-3647 exp) Ph: 587-521-4691. T0H 1Z0. competitive compensation Cell: 780-982-9822 Fax 780-926-4620. Email: and benefit package as heathermccg@shaw.ca norman.zubot@shaw.ca calvin.missal@tgp.ca. well as the opportunity for personal and professional RAYMOND SHORES development. If you are RESORT Misc. Misc. interested in a rewarding requires full time person challenging career; Services Services to oversee work at the pool, if you can provide creative clubhouse and outdoor solutions through team maintenance. problem solving while The full time period focusing on providing will commence on excellence customer service, May 1 - Oct 31, 2014. we would like to hear from This position will require pool you: Human Resources, We can deal with your refrigeration problems operation, outdoor site mgmt The Grocery People Ltd., and general mgmt of 14505 Yellowhead Trail, quickly, efficiently and reasonably P/T staff. Please send all Edmonton, AB, T5L 3C4. resumes to: tdmytryshyn Fax 780-447-5781. Email: @sunrealgroup.com. humanresources@tgp.ca. This position is ideal for a We thank all applicants for person residing around the their interest, NE end of Gull Lake. but only those candidates considered for an interview The Red Deer Public will be contacted. School District Invites applications for Educational Assistant at SEEKING A CAREER in Various Locations. For the Community Newspaper more information visit our business? Post your web site at: resume for FREE right www.rdpsd.ab.ca where the publishers are looking. Visit: www.awna.com /resumes_add.php.
900
1290
A Population Explosion
BOBCAT SERVICES Sur-B Enterprises Ltd.
BOBCAT SERVICE • Snow Removal • Driveways & Parking Lots • Post-Hole Augering - 6, 9, 12, 15 • Corral Cleaning • Grading & Construction Call 403-783-2764 403-588-0599 CallJim JimAshbough Ashbough 783-2764ororCell: Cell: 588-0599 Jack Surbey 403-783-5283 Cell: 403-588-0597 Jack Surbey 783-5283orCell: 588-0597
OVERHEAD DOORS
. . . at your house?
This space could be yours for $
30
1090
1290
1290
Attention: Farmers
Berni's
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311 BOTTLE DEPOT
PONOKA BOTTLE DEPOT Open Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm
Closed Sundays & Holidays We Now Recycle Milk Cartons for Deposit
3, 5520 Hwy 2A (Across from Husky)
403-783-6875 SALES & SERVICE
Refrigeration
Misc. Help
880
and Appliance Service
Buying or Selling your home? Check out Homes for Sale in Classifieds
of Rimbey ASSOCIATE INSURANCE ADVISOR REQUIRED As an Associate Insurance Advisor, you will work directly with clients to review their insurance requirements, manage their existing policies, and suggest new products to provide the best coverage for their needs. YOUR REQUIREMENTS: You will need to have a General Insurance License and you will be proficient with Microsoft Office and other technology. If you are interested in joining a fantastic team, please forward your resume to: Darrell Peters Financial Advisor/Owner of Dynamic Insurance Group Inc. An Exclusive Advisor of The Cooperators. Email: darrell_peters@cooperators.ca Fax: 403-843-3138
Misc. Services
1290
783-4880 Misc. Services
1290
Misc. Services
1290
Squeezthee MOST out of your advertising dollars Place your ad in this newspaper and12345 province wide $ with a combined circulation of over 800,000 for only...
995 plus GST/HST
Value Ad Network
Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x228 email andrea@awna.com or visit this community newspaper
Motorcycles & ATV’s Tues - Fri: 8:30 am-5:30 pm Saturday: 9 am-3 pm
403-783-5185 1-800-662-7135 Fax: 403-783-4635
Reaching 6000 households weekly for just
30
$
PER WEEK
This space could be yours!
403-783-3311
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 37
DENTISTRY
RIMBEYDENTALCARE DR. STEVE CALDER BS C DDS
Family Friendly Dentistry Box 1100 4905 50 St. Rimbey, AB T0C 2J0
Ph. (403) 843-2173 Fax: (403) 843-2607
DENTAL CARE BIRCHLAND DENTAL CLINIC PRACTICE OF DENTISTRY
4037835225 • 4037835235 5118 - 51 Ave., Ponoka, AB T4J 1R5
DR. HUGH PORTER • DR. RICK BARR DR. JEFF BARR • DR. GREG EDWARDS - General Dentistry - Orthodontics - Cosmetic Dentistry - Bonding - Veneers - Bleaching - White or Gold Fillings - Crown and Bridge - Implant Restorations “WE ENTHUSIASTICALLY WELCOME NEW PATIENTSâ€?
EYE CARE Drs. Heimdahl, ZoBell & Kallal 403-783-5575 1-800-662-7168 WWW.4YOUREYESONLY.CA
-
•
5120-51ST AVE, PONOKA
ADVANCED EYE HEALTH & VISION EXAMS CONSULTATION & REFERRAL SERVICES DESIGNER EYE WEAR & CONTACT LENSES INSURED MEDICAL EYECARE SERVICES NOW AVAILABLE FOR ALL AGES
NEW PATIENTS ALWAYS WELCOME
OFFICE HOURS: Monday - Friday 8AM - 12:30PM • 1PM - 5PM
This space could be yours for $
30
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311
Misc. Services
1290
ATTENTION HOME BUILDERS! No Warranty = No Building Permit. Contact Blanket Home Warranty for details. 1-888-925-2653; www.blanketltd.ca. NEED TO ADVERTISE? Province wide classifieds. Reach over 1 million readers weekly. Only $269. + GST (based on 25 words or less). Call this newspaper NOW for details or call 1-800-282-6903 ext. 228.
Snow Removal
1380
Misc. Services
1290
DISCONNECTED PHONE? Phone Factory Home Phone Service. No one refused! Low monthly rate! Calling features & unlimited long distance available. Call Phone Factory today! 1-877-336-2274; www.phonefactory.ca. You can sell your guitar for a song... or put it in CLASSIFIEDS and we’ll sell it for you!
Snow Removal
1380
DATING SERVICE. Long-term/short-term relationships. Free to try! 1-877-297-9883. Live intimate conversation, Call #7878 or 1-888-534-6984. Live adult 1on1 Call 1-866-311-9640 or #5015. Meet local single ladies. 1-877-804-5381. (18+).
SNOW REMOVAL
Pet Services
We have received numerous calls about leaky roofs, roofs with ventilation blocked by snow, blocked drainpipes and attics, all due to heavy snow build-up.
CLINKERS KENNELS
We URGE you, if you are not able to remove the snow from your roof please consider having someone who is comfortable being on a roof remove the snow. Blocked ventilation can lead to condensation build up in the attic that can cause water and structurally damage. Blocked drainpipes can lead up to the build of methane gas plus other sewer gases. This can cause serious medical problems and a potential ďŹ re hazard. The amount of snow on most roofs is SURPASSING the weight load of the trusses even in newer homes. WE REMOVE SNOW from the roof and move the snow that drops on your pathways, decks & driveways.
CALL 403-704-3485 FOR A QUOTE TODAY! Prices start at $175
Welding
1410
Welding
1410
“Committed to your comfort�
Ph: 403-782-7722 Fax: 403-782-7499
TRUE PSYCHICS! For Answers call now 24/7 Toll Free 1-877-342-3036; Mobile: # 4486; www.truepsychics.ca.
1318
* Quality Boarding for your dogs & cats *Proof of vaccinations and advance bookings required HOURS: Mon - Thurs 9 am - 12 Noon; 4 pm - 6 pm; Fri. 9 am - 12 Noon; 4 pm - 7 pm; Sat. 9 a.m. - 12 noon; Sun. 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. & 4 - 7 p.m.
403-783-6272
Plumbing & Heating
1330
FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS REPAIRS OR NEW CALL BRIAN TODAY!
403-913-4217 403-783-7417
Rental Misc
1350
FAX: (403) 783-8178 Website: www.harbinwelding.com E-mail: bharbin@telus.net
Aircraft ..............................1510 Antiques & Art ..................1520 Auctions ............................1530 Bicycles ............................1540 Building Supplies ..............1550 Business Machines ..........1560 Cameras & Accessories ..1570 Children’s Items ................1580 Clothing ............................1590 Computers ........................1600 Concert & Event Tickets ..1610 Equipment - Misc. ............1620 Equipment - Heavy ..........1630 Tools ................................1640 Farmers’ Market & Food Basket......................1650 Firewood ..........................1660 Lumber ............................1670 Garden Supplies ..............1680 Lawn Tractors ..................1690 Health, Dietary, Beauty ....1700 Household Appliances......1710 Household Furnishings ....1720 TV’s, Stereos, VCR’s ........1730 Hot Tubs & Accessories ..1740 Jewellery ..........................1750 Kid’s Deals........................1755 Misc. For Sale ..................1760 Musical Instruments..........1770 Music Lessons..................1780 Piano & Organs ................1790 Office Supplies ................1800 Pets & Supplies ................1810 Pet Services ....................1820 Cats ..................................1830 Dogs ................................1840 Sports Cards ....................1850 Sporting Goods ................1860 Collectors’ Items ..............1870 Swap, Barter & Trade ......1880 Travel Packages ..............1900 Wedding Supplies ............1910 Recycled Products............1920 Wanted to Buy ..................1930 Items to Give Away ..........1940
1530
8TH ANNUAL RED DEER COLLECTOR CAR AUCTION & SPEED SHOW, March 14 - 16/14, Red Deer Westerner Park. Exhibitor space available. Consign your car. 1-888-296-0528 ext. 102; EGauctions.com. BIG STRAPPER AUCTIONS SALES EVERY WED. @ 6 pm. Moose Hall 2 miles south of Ponoka on 2A Resuming Weekly Sales Wed. Jan. 15, 6 pm FIRST ANTIQUE SALE Sun. Feb. 2, 1 pm
Need RV or Self Storage?
WE BUY FOR CASH.
8’ X 10’ mini storage units available for rent. Also RV storage. Secure compound. Call Keith at
Well Drilling
MAIN: (403) 783-7591
Buy & Sell #1500 - #1990
Auctions
403-304-4791 Check website for full listing www.bigstrapperauctions.net
WARD’S AUCTIONS - Antiques/Estate Auction. Sunday, Feb. 2, 10 a.m., 11802 - 145 St., Edmonton. 780-451-4549. Taking consignments now for Feb. 8. Firearms and related auctions. Online bidding and pictures at www.WardsAuctions.com.
783-3636
• B-PRESSURE • PIPELINE • OILFIELD • ASME Section VIII Division I VESSEL FABRICATION & PIPING • SHOP/PORTABLE • CNC PLASMA CUTTING • ALUMINUM • SHEARING & FORMING
Auctions
www.clinkerskennels.ca
First Call Towing
robin@KlesAir.com www.KlesMechanical.com
Advertise your business in the Business Directory!
Unplanned pregnancy may be difďŹ cult to face. We care. For conďŹ dential help call 403-343-1611 (24 hrs.)
ROOF
HEATING
Robin Esau
1315
Personal Services
1400
Well Drilling
1400
1530
COLLECTIBLE, ANTIQUE, COINS & MISC. AUCTION Sunday Feb. 2 -10 a.m. Bowden Lions Hall, Bowden AB Coins, Antiques, Lots of Collectibles, Toys, Hockey & Sport cards, Glassware, Ornaments, Precious Moments, Furniture, Household, Hardware items, Tools, Just too much to mention.. Check the web.. Sale is subject to additions and deletions.. 5% admin fee applies.. See U all out at the sale‌ Pilgrim Auction Service 403-556-5531 www.auctionsales.ca
Building Supplies
1550
Concrete forming equipment Dura-Form 4’ x 2’, 5’x2’, 7’x2’, 8’ x 2’, lots of inside corners and fillers, most of forms are in cages. To view call Randy 403-843-1099 cell 587-679-2334. For pics and detailed equipt. list emai: thepelletiers@ xplornet.ca METAL ROOFING & SIDING. Very competitive prices! Largest colour selection in Western Canada. Available at over 25 Alberta Distribution Locations. 40 Year Warranty. Call 1-888-263-8254. STEEL BUILDING. “The Big Year End Clear Out!� 20x22 $4,259. 25x24 $4,684. 30x34 $6,895. 35x36 $9,190. 40x48 $12,526. 47x70 $17,200. One end wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422; www.pioneersteel.ca STEEL BUILDINGS/ METAL BUILDINGS 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100, sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-457-2206; www. crownsteelbuildings.ca.
Firewood
1660
Farm Equipment ..............2010 Haying Equipment ............2020 Tractors ............................2030 Combines & Headers ......2040 Fertilizer Equipment..........2050 Misc. Farm Machinery ......2060 Equipment Wanted ..........2070 Farm Custom Work ..........2080 Farm Auctions ..................2090 Livestock ..........................2100 Livestock - Exotic..............2110 Sheep ..............................2120 Poultry ..............................2130 Horses ..............................2140 Horse Boarding ................2150 Riding Supplies ................2160 Horse/Stock Trailers ........2170 Pasture Wanted ................2180 Grain, Feed, Hay ..............2190 Seed Grain ......................2200 Seeding & Tillage ............2210
Livestock
2100
40 Bulls For Sale
Registered Yearlings
Black Angus &5 2 year olds
Plus
125 Cows Reg. Black Angus
Call Jim (780)
387-6050
Grain, Feed Hay
2190
HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. “On Farm Pickup� Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-250-5252.
Semi loads of pine, spruce, tamarack, poplar. Price depends on location. Lil Mule Logging 403-318-4346
LACOMBE COUNTRY FEED STORE, Come see us at: 4836 45A St. Lacombe, Ab Pet Food, Horse, Poultry ALL THE FEED YOUR ANIMALS NEED! 403-782-3333
1810
ROUND hay bales. Cheap Free delivery. Self unloading. No Sunday calls Please. 403-843-6380
LOGS
Pets & Supplies
FOR SALE
7 Blue Heeler X Female Puppies $75 each Call Darlene 403-783-1637
Well Drilling
1400
RURAL WATER TREATMENT (Province Wide) Tell them Danny Hooper sent you
Agricultural #2000 - #2290
)RON &ILTERS s 3OFTENERS s $ISTILLERS s 2EVERSE /SMOSIS h+ONTINUOUS 3HOKv #HLORINATOR 0ATENTED 7HOLE (OUSE 2EVERSE /SMOSIS 3YSTEM
WANTED. Hannas Seeds seeking distributors for forage, turf, native and reclamation seed. Good commissions. Contact Dave at 1-800-661-1529 or dave@hannasseeds.com.
Give a gift that lasts the whole year! A SUBSCRIPTION TO THEIR FAVOURITE NEWSPAPER!
12345 7ITHIN MILES OF %DMONTON 7ATER 7ELL $RILLING 2ED $EER #ALGARY .EW 'OVERNMENT WATER WELL GRANT STARTS !PRIL 4IME 0AYMENT 0LAN / ! # FOR WATER WELLS AND WATER TREATMENT
")' )2/. View our 29 patented and patent pending inventions online at
www.1800bigiron.com
403.783.3311
Page 38 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
HEATING & EAVESTROUGHING
Commercial - Residential Installations - Repair
3912 - 66 St, Ponoka www.wcmltd.ca
403.783.3501 wcmltd@telus.net
Mortgages Bought/Sold
For Rent #3000 - #3200
3020
Houses/ Duplexes
Real Estate #4000 - #4190 Houses For Sale
4020
This space could be yours for $
30
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311 VETERINARY SERVICES
Bovine Veterinary Services On-Farm Mobile Veterinary Services Ultrasound-aided ReproducƟve Programs CETA CerƟĮed Dairy and Beef Embryo Transfer Herd Health
Phone 403-391-1684 Dr. Bruce Wine
ʹͶ
403-704-0644 ALIX Main, 3 Bedrooms, Full bath. Basement, one finished room and full bath. Fridge & Stove No Smoking No Pets 950 + util. Mar 1. Call 403 823 0051 CENTRAL PONOKA 2 bedroom house close to schools. N.S. No pets. $750.00/mo plus utilities. $750.00 D.D. Available February 1. Application and references required. Call Mary 403-783-6609
30
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311 VETERINARY SERVICES
EXEC. 1/2 DUPLEX
near Coronation Park and trail system. 1484 sq.ft. 2 storey, 3 bedrooms up, hardwood, gas fireplace, fenced back yard, New shingles in last 5 yrs. Newly dev. bsmt. Dble.garage. Quick Poss. Avail. $349,900. 403-396-5516 Agent Chosen.
PONOKA 5 BDRM. FULLY DEVELOPED DUPLEX. $1395/mo. 403-704-1221
Manufactured Homes
3040
PONOKA MOOSE LODGE IS CURRENTLY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS For the rental of a modular home site. Please contact Lynn at 403-358-6580 for details.
3060
Suites
This space could be yours for $
FOR RENT IN DOWNTOWN PONOKA 2 bdrm suite for responsible working couple. N/S, N/P. References required.
587-729-0206 * RIVERSIDE APTS. * Newly renovated 1 & 2 bedroom units in Ponoka: 3724-45 Street. 403-357-0287
Stores/ Commercial
4090
Manufactured Homes
HOMES, COTTAGES & More. RTMI - Ready to Move in. Call 1-888-733-1411; rtmihomes.com. Red Tag Sale on now - ask about our $100,000 giveaway. SAVE NOW! $10,000. of regular retail on all modular homes until February 28. Secure your production spot now for summer delivery. Sunshine Homes 1-877-887-2254; www.sshomes.ca SHOP AND COMPARE! Then let United Homes Canada get you the best value on a new TripleM home! Starting at only $92,500. Delivery conditions apply. 142 East Lake Blvd., Airdrie. 1-800-461-7632; www. unitedhomescanada.com.
3120
COMMERCIAL Southwest Industrial Park 4102-64 St., Ponoka 403-783-5200 8 a.m. - 5 p.m Mon. to Sat. • Open late Thursday 24-hour Emergency Call Dr. Bill Frischke • Dr. Kelly Loree • Dr. Leighton Coma Dr. Trevor Hook • Dr. Patricia Kelly
Reaching 6000 households weekly
For just
$30 per week
Financial #4400 - #4430 Investments ......................4410 Money Wanted ................4420 Money to Loan ................4430
Money To Loan
DROWNING IN DEBT? Cut debts more than 60% & debt free in half the time! Avoid bankruptcy! Free consultation; www.mydebtsolution.com or toll free 1-877-556-3500. BBB rated A+. GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need money? We lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420; www.pioneerwest.com.
4020
JAMES AVERY
5030
“Reasonable rates on all your plumbing needs” Gas Fitting - Home Renovations - Drain Cleaning -24 HOUR SERVICE-
2010 LINCOLN MKZ SEDAN 3.5L Auto., front wheel drive. White in colour. Extremely low km: 21,090. 1 owner. 2 sets of tires. Immaculate condition. $23,500. 403-783-5493
5306 - 60 ST, PONOKA, AB T4J 1K7 PH: (403) 783-6372 • FAX (403) 783-6345
Cars
SUV's
PLUMBING
5040 PONOKA PLUMBING & HEATING We now carry a complete line of Ritchie Stockwater parts
4430
DO YOU NEED TO BORROW MONEY - NOW? If you own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits will lend you money - It’s that simple. 1-877-486-2161.
Houses For Sale
Transportation #5000-5300
SHANDALL PLUMBING LTD.
2007 H2 hummer, mint condition, 59,000 kms, new tires & rims, original rims and tires to buyer. Call Art 403-304-0727.
Tires, Parts Acces.
Hours of Business: Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5 pm
5110 -50 Street Box 4414 Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1R7
JESSE ZINTER Office - 403-783-5489
5180
This space could be yours for $
WRECKING AUTO-TRUCKS. Parts to fit over 500 trucks. Lots of Dodge, GMC, Ford, imports. We ship anywhere. Lots of Dodge, diesel, 4x4 stuff. Trucks up to 3 tons. North-East Recyclers 780-875-0270 (Lloydminster).
30
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311
Looking for a place to live? Take a tour through the CLASSIFIEDS
PORTABLE TOILET RENTALS
LittleJONS’ Hand Wash Stations Handicap Units Trailer Units New Solar Powered Units with Running Water
Serving Central Today! Alberta Book On-Line
403.783.8322
www.littlejons.ca
Reaching 6000 households weekly for just
$
30
BAYS
This space could be yours!
4205 - 64 St., Ponoka, AB
403-783-3311
FOR RENT 34’Lx16’W with 16’ high ceiling. Suitable for Truckers, Farmers, Boaters, Contractors, or Anyone needing Secure, Heated Storage.
ONLY 5 AVAILABLE! Call ERNIE at 780-335-6767 for Special Spring Rental Rates!
PER WEEK
Reaching 6000 households weekly
For just
$30 per week this space could be yours!
this space could be yours!
403-783-3311
BANK SAID NO? Bank on us! Equity Mortgages for purchases, debt consolidation, foreclosures, renovations. Bruised credit, self-employed, unemployed ok. Dave Fitzpatrick: www.albertalending.ca. 587-437-8437, Belmor Mortgage.
SMALL 2 BDRM BUNGALOW 4 appliances,Garage Available Feb 1/14 Call Bob
PLUMBING
4190
403-783-3311 www.ponokanews.com
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
PONOKA NEWS Page 39
VETERINARY SERVICES
Ponoka Veterinary Clinic Dr. Murray Jacobson Dr. Clayton West Dr. Ashley Shannon
Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 5 pm Sat. 9 am - 4:30 pm
24 Hr. Emergency 403-783-4348
5502 - Hwy 2A Ponoka, AB
T4J 1M1
THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS FOR
$30
PER WEEK.
Public Notice #6000
Public Notices ..................6010 Special Features ..............6050
Public Notices
6010
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS ESTATE OF DEBORAH IRENE HELEN DONNELLY, ALSO KNOWN AS DEBBIE DONNELLY, who died on December 26, 2013. If you have a claim against this estate, you must file your claim by Monday, March 3, 2014, with
CALL 4037833311 ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST
$
30
PER WEEK.
REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK. WATER WELL DRILLING SERVICES
Darcy’s Drilling Services • water wells drilled & serviced • new pump & pressure system installations • all types of pump repairs • well shocking Darcy Schmidt Ph: (403) 783-2220 Fax: (403) 783-8828 Email: darcysdrillingservices@hotmail.com
WATER WELL SERVICE
ECKLUND
Water Well Service • Install & Service Pumps • Shock Wells • Pressure Systems Serviced & Installed Home: (403) 783-3712 Cell: (403) 704-3413
CUSTOM TUB GRINDING • Different screens for bedding & feed • 600 HP truck driven for fast grinding • Minimum Charge 2 HRS @ $220/HR
CALL LEEN VOGELAAR 403-704-0919
Box 4546 5034 - 49th Ave. Ponoka, AB T4J 1S1 and provide details of your claim. If you do not file by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.
DO YOUR
PART
RECYCLE
YOUR
PAPER!
! e M r u o l o C
Page 40 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014
Hammy’s SPIRITS
OPEN 10 AM - 10 PM 7 Days A Week
APOTHIC RED OR APOTHIC WHITE 750 ml
2/$2000 1099
OR $
BUDWEISER OR BUD LIGHT
NEW AMSTERDAM VODKA
355 ml 15 can pk.
2249 EACH
$
EACH
99
355 ml 12 can pk.
1999 EACH
$
750 ml
17
$
TWISTED TEA HARD ICED TEA
EACH
APPLETON ESTATE RUM CAROLANS IRISH CREAM
CROWN ROYAL
1.75 L
3999 EACH
$
1.14 L
321.75.99LEACH $ 46.99 EACH $
750 ml
261.14.99LEACH $ 39.99 EACH $
LAPHROAIG QUARTER CASK SCOTCH 750 ml
3899 EACH
$
FAMILIA GASCON MALBEC
BAREFOOT ASSORTED VARIETIES
750 ml
750 ml
9
$ 99
EACH
3/ $20
00
OR
7
$ 49
EACH
CUPCAKE ASSORTED VARIETIES 750 ml
2/ $2000 OR $1049
Bay #5, 4502 - 50th St. • 403-783-2333 Prices in effect Wednesday, Jan. 29 to Tuesday Feb. 4, 2014 Prices do not include GST or deposit. We reserve the right to limit quantities
EACH