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Vol. 66, No. 10 | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 5, 2014 | 403-783-3311 | EDITORIAL@PONOKANEWS.COM
Ponoka has a Zone 4 Champion Page 28
Reflections of Ponoka Remembering our 1950’s and 60’s Ponoka Teen Towners Story on page 5
Bowl-a-thon Althea Lewis, a teacher with Ponoka Elementary School, bowls in her angel outfit Feb. 28 during the BBBS Bowl-a-thon.
Please see our detailed story on p. 27. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
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2 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Cross-connected lines in three homes
Council proposes new behaviour bylaw BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
”We wanted to do it a.s.a.p”
Recent tests to homes in the Lucas Heights area, carried out by SFE Global as contracted by the Town of Ponoka, have shown some residences with cross-connected sewer and water lines and the problem has now been addressed. The dye tests were conducted in December and confirmed that 6309 59 Street, 6212 59 Street and 5905 61 Avenue have sanitary sewer lines connected to the storm main. This means the sewer had been flowing into the Battle River. Town of Ponoka employees met with affected homeowners who did not know of the issue. It is believed the mix-up occurred approximately 10 years ago when the homes were constructed. Homeowners did confirm town representatives had contacted them and it is believed the issue was fixed by a contractor recently. Mayor Rick Bonnett said the operations department had decided that the problem needed to be dealt with before the snow started to melt. He stressed it would be more difficult to control the seepage once the water flow increased.
- Mayor Rick Bonnett
“It was way easier for us to go into their yards and dig them up than actually waiting and doing it springtime. We wanted to do it a.s.a.p.” “We didn’t want to have a repeat of last summer’s sewer backup.” Alberta Environment was notified of the crossed lines as well and to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, sewage was being pumped out twice a week from manholes until the connections were corrected. Acting CAO Betty Quinlan told councillors recently she believed pumping costs were approximately $500 a week. Dave McPhee, director of operations and property services said in an email that the town had to ensure a plan was in place once they knew of the issue. Bonnet said it cost the town about $7,000. “As this is the new regime, we just wanted to fix the problem and deal with it (the cost) later.” “We will work with the residents later,“ Bonnet concluded in reference to sharing the Ave. cost of the operation.
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As the business hours bylaw is on the verge of its last breath, Ponoka town council has proposed a new conduct bylaw. First reading was passed on the Public Behaviour Bylaw and Ted Dillon, director of protective services, says his department did quite a bit of research on the subject. He told councillors Feb. 25 that similar bylaws from other municipalities were looked at. The cities of Medicine Hat, Airdrie and Calgary, and the towns of Black Diamond, Cardston, and Vegreville all have similar bylaws. Dillon feels this is another option for police in keeping the town safe.
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“It’s just another tool in the tool belt to assist police,” he offered. Mayor Rick Bonnett suggested they pass first reading of the bylaw to give residents and councillors chance to review the bylaw. Councillors Tim Falkiner, Teri Underhill and Carla Prediger were not at the meeting and Bonnett feels they need time before making any more decisions on it. Offences and fines Under the new bylaw, the following penalties are foreseen: • Fight in public, $250 • Loitering and obstructing, $250 • Stand or put feet on a table/bench/planter/ sculpture, $50 • Panhandling, $100 • Urinate or defecate in public, $300 • Spit in public, $100 • Dangerous actions, $100 Bonnett speaks on the intent of the behaviour bylaw While the behaviour bylaw must go through second and third readings still, it appears to be something of a substitute for the business hours bylaw, which council wants to repeal; a vote of 5-1 in favour of a repealing bylaw was passed Feb. 11. “The business hours bylaw is a piece of junk,” stated Bonnett. He clarified his
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statement to say that despite voting in favour of restricting liquor sales last year, Bonnett would rather have had the behaviour bylaw in place. This new bylaw is only in the discussion phase and Bonnett said the protective services committee, which councillors Loanna Gulka and Sandra Lyon are a part of, will need to review the wording. The goal is to go after lawbreakers. “It doesn’t affect any law-abiding citizen or business.” He suggests the business hours bylaw affected businesses in town rather than those who were committing illegal acts. Legislation from the Alberta government, he feels, would be a better option than having a small handful of communities restricting sales. The issue moves from one community to the next, he added. “If we want to affect change on that side, we need to lobby the provincial government,” Bonnet said. One provision in the business hours bylaw allowed the sales of liquor after 10 p.m. during the Ponoka Stampede and Bonnett said he was the proponent of that consolation. “I’ve got to admit that I was probably wrong on that.” This proposed bylaw will provide protection year round, he explained, while the previous bylaw had other businesses worried they would be targeted next. “That puts a bad taste in my mouth personally,” said Bonnett.
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PONOKA NEWS 3
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Carjacked Edmonton vehicle found in Ponoka
GET YOUR BUSINESS OUT THERE
BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
Police in an unmarked car nabbed the drivers of a vehicle involved in a car jacking in Edmonton. RCMP charged a 42-year-old Calgary man and a 43-year-old Wetaskiwin woman with possession of stolen property Feb. 24 at 10 p.m. The officers first witnessed a red 2014 Honda Civic parked at the KFC restaurant after operating hours. They later saw it northbound on Highway 2A. A licence plate check showed the vehicle was stolen from Edmonton Jan. 31.
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Police have charged a 46-year-old Maskwacis man in relation to the theft of a vehicle that was stolen from Sylvan Lake. The suspect was found in Maskwacis after police responded to a call involving him. He has been charged with possession of stolen property, flight from police and driving while disqualified and has been remanded in custody. Ponoka RCMP received 46 calls for service last week. If you have information on any crime call Ponoka RCMP at 403-783-4472 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477.
Hard work by Galloway Oilfield Construction is earning the company accolades south of Canada. The company was recognized with a business award called Outstanding Performance on Power Projects by the Bechtel Corporation. Bechtel is managing a large transmission line upgrade for ATCO Electric, called the Eastern Alberta Transmission Line. “The project in its entirety is huge,” says Andrea Taylor, business development manager with Galloway. “Anything that they’ve needed done, we’ve done it on time,” she added. Bechtel is the fifth largest private corporation in the United States and Taylor feels the award shows the quality of work the Ponoka company has accomplished. Galloway is the only company from
this project to receive the award and the only Canadian company with the accolade. Taylor says there have been many challenges ensuring the project’s tight deadlines were met. Among them was the case when Galloway crews had to wait for certain migratory birds to finish their nesting before starting. The award is already earning the company recognition in other publications and Taylor said she has had to put some articles together for construction magazines.
CA L L T O DAY F O R I N F O R M AT I O N
IP VE CL SA D
Man in possession of stolen vehicle
BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
FOR DENTURES THROUGH THE SENIOR BENEFITS PROGRAM.
AN
Members of the Ponoka Integrated Traffic Unit stopped a motorist travelling at 150 km/h. Officers pulled over Feb. 26 at 7:15 a.m. a blue Ford F150 that was southbound on Highway 2 near Highway 53. Upon speaking with the driver, a 25-year-old Edmonton woman, the officer could smell the odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle. The driver admitted to smoking marijuana earlier in the day. She was charged with possession and speeding. A 30-year-old Edmonton man, who was a passenger in the pickup, was arrested as he had outstanding warrants for his arrest. There was another passenger in the vehicle but she was released with no charges.
403-783-3311
• Danny Jones • CALL
Ticket for parking in the crosswalk The ticket for parking at a crosswalk is $57. That is exactly what a 67-year-old Ponoka man received Feb. 26 at 3:30 p.m. after being illegally parked at the crosswalk at Ponoka Elementary School. The man was asked to move his vehicle but would not comply, which is when he received a ticket. In an effort to ensure public safety, police remind motorists not to park close to, or on the crosswalk in the school zones.
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4 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 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
PONOKA UNITED CHURCH Minister: Beatrix Schirner
ponokaunited@shaw.ca
Sunday Service 10:00 am. 5020-52 Ave. Ponoka
Phone: 403-783-4087
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
Give yourself permission to laugh “A cheerful heart is good medicine” (Proverbs 17:22). I once read that children laugh an average of 400 times a day while adults laugh 15 times a day. Whether or not those numbers are correct, it seems true to me that kids laugh far more often than we do. Our lives are hard and no one gets a free ride. Perhaps some people think that laughter is a sign that you don’t take life seriously enough. So I ask myself, why do children laugh so much? I think it’s because no one has told them not to. They laugh because they haven’t yet learned to doubt everything they hear and see. The world still amazes them. Watch a child long enough and you’ll see him giggle over a ladybug and clap his hands with glee when a puppy rubs up against his leg. You’ll see the smallest of things in life bring them the greatest of joy. Our problem is that we take ourselves and our lives so seriously that we don’t have time to laugh at anything. Laughter is for kids,
boosting energy levels.” right. Well God gave So we need to laugh laughter to us as well sometimes. Life is funny and and He teaches us in often absurd. And while we Proverbs that laughter are laughing it is not wrong to is good for the soul. wish things were different. We It is also good for all wish that from time to time, the body. I read this and we shouldn’t feel guilty week that laughter about feeling that way. Laughplays a role in proter is one of God’s best gifts, moting good health. and it is one way of not letting “Laughter helps prolife get you down. Given all duce cells, which fight the problems, pressures, worinfections, includries and fears that we all share ing pneumonia and Pastor Matt Sealy right now, it’s easy to spend our bronchitis. Laughter Church of the days with an unending frown. also suppresses the Open Bible But even now, perhaps esperelease of cortisol, a cially now, we need to laugh. hormone that weakSo let’s pray that the Lord will ens the immune system. Laughter raises the body’s pain lift the burdens and give us joy. I believe threshold and acts as a muscle relaxer. It that we all can find reasons to laugh and also increases circulatory capacity and to see the humor in the world God made. strengthens organs, helping the body to Go ahead and give yourself permission to become more resistant to infection while laugh. It’s good for the soul.
Are seniors surviving the electronics era? As I sit in front of my laptop computer wondering just how long March will continue to roar like a lion before becoming a lamb, I got to thinking about whether we, as seniors, are managing to adjust or accept our now glitzy new world of electronic gadgets. For yours truly, I am so lucky to have children and grandchildren who get me out of the push button jams and glitches, but I have found that it is so much easier to communicate with family and friends through all these handy dandy new devices. The Internet has really helped me with the search and research for doing my freelance writing, but around our house, we only possess one lap-top, a cell phone, three cordless phones, and an Ipad which we received as a Christmas gift and have fallen in love with. I know that most other homes have a whole lot more, which are now being used 24-7 by the new generation, but how has our senior population reacted to all these beeping and tweeting gadgets that are now capable of performing miracles in a split second from any location? A good friend of mine, who is also a senior, sent me a real neat article the other day on this very subject, and this week, just for fun, I will pass it on to you. Why at 65 years I don’t belong on facebook When I bought my Black-
Mike Rainone Hammertime
berry, I thought about the 30-year business that I ran with 1800 employees, all without a cell phone that plays music, takes videos, pictures and communicates with Facebook and Twitter. I signed up under duress for both Twitter and Facebook so that my four kids, their spouses, my seven grandchildren and two great grand kids could communicate with me in the modern way. What the heck, I figured that I could handle something as simple as Twitter with only 140 characters of space, but little did I know that I would become an instant celebrity of the airwaves with scads of new would-be friends from far and wide. My phone was beeping every three minutes with the details of everything that I don’t really need to know and others that I am scared to learn about our next genera-
GET YOUR BUSINESS OUT THERE
tion. I quickly found that I am not ready to live with this, so I now keep my cell phone in the garage in my golf bag. Then the kids bought me a GPS for my last birthday because, along with my wife, they say that I get lost every now and then just going over to the grocery store or the library. After a frustrating trial run, I now keep that in a box under my tool bench along with the bluetooth (its red) phone that I am also suppose to use when I drive. I wore it once and was standing in line at a local grocery store talking to my wife and noticed that everyone within 50 yards was glaring at me. I had to take my hearing aid out to use it, so I guess I was getting a little loud. By the way, the GPS looked pretty smart up on my dash board, but the lady inside that gadget was the most annoying, rudest person I had run into in a long time. Every 10 minutes, she would sarcastically say, “Re-calc-u-lating.” You would think she could be a whole lot nicer. It was like she could barely tolerate me, and she would let go with a deep sigh and then tell me to make a U-turn at the next light. Then if I made a right turn instead...well, it was not a good relationship.” When I get lost now, I call my wife and tell her the name of the cross streets, and while she is beginning to develop the same tone as Gypsy (the G.P.S.
lady) at least she loves me. To be perfectly frank, I am still trying to learn how to use the cordless phones in our house. We have had them for 4 years, but I still haven’t figured out how I can lose three phones all at once and then have to run around digging under chair cushions, checking bathrooms, and dirty laundry baskets when the phone rings. I have decided that the world is really getting much too complex for me. They even mess me up every time I go to the grocery store. You would think they could settle on something themselves, but this sudden ‘paper or plastic?’ every time I check out just knocks me for a loop. I bought some of those cloth reusable bags to avoid looking confused, but I never remember to take them with me. Now I toss it all back at them, and when they ask me that same ‘paper or plastic?’ question, I just say, “It doesn’t matter to me, I am bi-sacksual’, and then it’s their turn to stare back at me with a blank look.” I was recently asked if I tweet, and I answered ‘No, but I do burp a lot.” Always take a deep breath, try to take lots of time to stay tuned in to our regular dayto day lifestyles, and have a great week, all of you..
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PONOKA NEWS 5
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Reflections of Ponoka
Remembering our 1950’s and 60’s Ponoka Teen Towners BY MIKE RAINONE FOR THE NEWS
There are many of us who grew up in the roaring 1950’s and 60’s, and will always manage to recall the fond memories of those flashy fashions, rock and roll, drive-in movies, sock hops, and just plain hanging out with a bunch of fun-loving gals and guys who only wanted to learn, have a good time, and survive in a fabulous new era. This was when the ‘in things’ were white bucks and bobby socks, pony tails and sideburns, hopped up cars with fender skirts and Hollywood mufflers, the magic arrival of television, and parents who were strict with a whole lot of patience on the side. We will fondly look back at all the great times we had together in school, somehow earning a B on a tough test and getting a sports letter all in the same week, the crushes, the outside games we played, and how many times we were grounded. We will always enjoy sitting back in our comfortable chairs and telling our grand-children how shy we were, as well as our favourite adventures
of growing up, about our best and true friends, and how somehow we managed to get through 12 grades of school and raging hormones by just being ourselves, and never being alone. Along the way we learned how to jive, to do the limbo and the occasional waltz, as well as the importance of playing as a team, being fair, and having lots of buddies. All about Ponoka Teen Town. I fondly remember that the Ponoka Teen Town Club came into being in the mid- 1950’s with the encouragement of popular Recreation Director John Zahara and his wife Sandy. Active member Don Sutherland recalls having the first meetings upstairs in the old Ponoka Town Hall, which also housed the local police station, court room, fire department, dog catcher, and jail cells. The spacious upstairs of the town hall was perfect for the Teens to hold their executive and regular weekly meetings, as well as a great place to gather with friends. Occasional dances were also organized, with members supplying the goodies, as
Remember When...
This late 1950’s photo features Mr.Fenske’s Ponoka Elementary Grade 6 class, which likely attended school in the famous huts. Shown in the back row from left to right are: Jerry Miller, Ada Sparks, Bobby Price, Sandra Hughes, Bruce Rowland, Richard Anderson, Violet White, Don Campbell, Gladys Loiselle, and teacher Mr. Fenske. Shown in middle row is: Lawrence Henkleman, Adeline Zerbe, Philip Palecheck, Elsie Lentz, Tommie Earl, Twila Martin, Arthur Nelson, June Griffiths, Carol Butterfield, and Gerald Granlund; then seated in front are: Allan Morris, Gene Kerns, Percy Williams, Dennis Peterson, Gilbert Parks, Robert Hutchison, and Bruce Pickett. Photo courtesy of Winnifred Evans
Members of Ponoka Teen Town took part in a rip-roaring Western dress-up event in the 1960’s. Shown from left to right are: Wayne Wright, Fred Galusha, Darlene Denson, Miss Griffiths, Dwayne Redman, Bonnie MacLeod, Gordon Elliot, Norma Stuart, and Ritchie Gage. Photos submitted
well as a radio or record player and their favourite choice of ‘hot discs’ to spin on the turntable. When enough funds had been raised the quickly growing Teen Town planned and hosted a big gala dance at the Ponoka Elk’s Hall on Chipman Avenue or the I.O.O.F Hall (also known as the 100 foot hall), and a good time was had by all. The young Ponoka and district teens did a lot of work to put these events together, putting up posters around town, and hiring hot area bands such as Wes Dakus and the Club 93 Rebels, Den and the Dimensions, and many others. On many occasions the Ponoka Teens would pack their cars on the weekend and head out to support district dances at Pigeon Lake and other roaring community halls. As well as being involved in many school social and recreation activities the members of the Ponoka Teen Town really enjoyed volunteering their time to help out with many year round community events. One of their favourite activities came around Christmas when they assisted the local John Deere Dealer (H.H. Roberts) to host the annual Christmas movie at the Capitol Theatre, handing out goodie bags with good old Santa. Once every year, Teen Town would sponsor their own gala event in the form of a glitzy Teen Queen Ball, with dignities from Town and County as well as parents and family members receiving an invitation to join in on a super evening of fun. Long before the function nominations had been accepted from the club members for their
choice of Ponoka’s annual Teen Queen and Most Outstanding Teenager. In the evenings these enthusiastic young ladies and men would gather at the home of Mr. and Mrs. (Mike and Babe) Prediger to learn proper social etiquette in preparation for this fancy formal affair. All members would also take this opportunity to learn ball room dancing and the correct manners that would allow them to dance and mingle on this very special evening with their parents and other quests. Don Sutherland fondly recalls that in 1962 Kristi Young was named at the Teen Queen of Ponoka and he was declared as our most outstanding teenager. Through the kind sponsorships and support of parents and community the winners each year were able to attend the annual Provincial Teen Conference in Olds, where they also had the the honour of representing their home town in the coveted selection of the Alberta Queen and Most Outstanding Teenager. Ponoka Teen Town continued on until well into the 1960’s, but unfortunately slowly fell from grace and was discontinued. Those of us who were lucky to have been members will never forget the keen camaraderie and the friendly involvement with the community. As our Town and County grows and progresses it will always be vital that our youth be encouraged to get involved in the planning, the activities, the amenities, and the future successes.
This classic fire engine red 1972 Old Cutlass convertible was great for date nights, drive-in movies, and cruising with the gang in those good old days.
6 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Opinion Ukraine, Russia and Crimea
In the fast pace of the events being the core of the Soviet unfolding in Ukraine, in particUnion, would not be rendered ular on the Crimean peninsula, defenseless at any cost. any article on the developments The collapse of the Soviet there may well be outdated by Union meant that Russia would the time it appears in print. lose the buffer zone around it But it might still be worthconstituted by the other repubwhile to take a deeper look at lics within its federation and the background against which this could not be tolerated. the current turmoil is develWitness the five-day war oping and ponder on possible in Georgia in 2008, when RusMustafa Eric outcomes. sia practically created a buffer While the history of RusEditor zone between its own territory sia and Ukraine has been a and the Georgian controlled story of very close association lands, by establishing a milibetween the two peoples (Rustary presence in South Ossetia, sians and Ukrainians speak very closely linked originally part of Georgia. languages, almost like distant dialects of the What is happening in Ukraine could be same language and culturally they share a lot seen in the same context. Moscow will do of traits; in terms of religious confessions, everything it can, not to allow Ukraine to be Ukrainians are mostly Orthodox Christians a theatre where NATO or any other Western like Russians with only about 10 per cent of military deployment can become a reality. If the total population declaring allegiance to that cannot be prevented, there will be a buffer Roman Catholic or Greek Catholic church), zone created between Russia proper and unthe current conflict has its roots in the trauma friendly military presence. that left deep scars in the psyche of both naThe 75-year history of the Soviet rule in tions: their joint destiny under the rule of the Ukraine has allowed enough time to RusCommunist Party of the Soviet Union, and by sians to put mechanisms in place to prevent extension, how the two nations suffered as a undesired developments in Ukraine. What has result of the Nazi onslaught during the WW II. been happening in Crimea is just one of those Both Russians and Ukrainians had to en- mechanisms at work. dure the mass collectivization of farms and the Crimea also happens to be the headquarresulting hunger in late 1920s and early 1930s ters of Russia’s Black Sea fleet, Moscow’s under the rule of Stalin, possibly the only dic- only tool to be able to project power in the tator that could match the monstrosities of his warm waters of the Mediterranean. arch enemy, Adolf Hitler. Vladimir Putin’s Moscow is taking a big When Hitler trampled on the secret non- but well calculated risk in challenging the aggression pact he signed with Stalin prior to West by claiming the control of Crimea. the WW II, his mind was on the vast plains Britain has already ruled out resorting to of Ukraine, which he planned to use as the military action. President Obama of the US breadbasket for not only his massive army but probably does not have all his ducks in order also for all the European nations he intended just to venture into another military campaign to keep as colonies of the Third Reich. as he is trying to manage a pullout from AfAnd invade Ukraine, he did. More impor- ghanistan. As for the possibility of economic tant than his invasion of the land per se, its sanctions/warfare, Russia could not care less consequence could have proven existential for if it were expelled from the group of G8. If Russia: Once Ukraine was under the control the west moves to impose economic sancof the German armies, there was no natural tions against Moscow, it will be hit at least strategic barrier for Hitler’s troops to advance as much as Russia: Western Europe, which is into the heartland of Russia, no mountain dependent on Russia for some 40 per cent of range to surpass, no thick forestland to hin- its natural gas supplies, will be facing a huge der the movement of panzer divisions or a big energy crisis; Germany, which has a sizeable waterway which could have delayed a military trade surplus with Russia will be devoid of a operation. Hitler’s troops did reach Rus- massive market and the price of oil will skysian heartland within a matter of weeks and rocket, something which will hit the global that led to the legendary battle of Stalingrad economy as a whole. (now Volgograd), which lasted more than five Add to this the possibility of another globmonths until the Soviet armies repelled Ger- al financial meltdown following a potential man forces. Ukrainian default on its sovereign debt, one The Soviet Union lost 24 million of its can see why Russia can feel audacious enough people in WWII and this has led to the founda- to go ahead and challenge the west to force its tion of a fundamental defense policy: Russia, claim on Crimea.
5019A Chipman Ave., Box 4217, Ponoka, AB. T4J 1R6 Phone: 403.783.3311 Fax: 403.783.6300 Email: editorial@ponokanews.com Published every Wednesday by PNG Prairie Newspaper Group in community with: Regional Publisher, Fred Gorman
Which way is the new direction? Dear Editor, I have been reading in our newspaper about our new mayor and council. The comment from the new mayor is that “council is moving in new direction.” As I read about these changes, I have a few concerns. It is obvious that fiscal restraint isn’t in their new direction. The mayor has stated that government grants have been cut back and so taxes and other costs to taxpayers will rise to reflect this. Oddly, there aren’t any cutbacks to the mayor or the town council. Is a retreat a necessity at this time of fiscal restraint or should taxpayer’s expenses be a major consideration? And if there isn’t a place good enough in town for council and staff to meet, why are we spending taxpayer’s big dollars to try to get businesses to come to Ponoka? There also seems to be a big push to shop
locally and support local business. Doesn’t this apply to mayor and council as well? How does having an out-of-town retreat do this? Another concern is raising the limit on three credit cards by three times the previous amount. Of course it will be audited and the expenses approved; but really, what are taxpayers paying for? Another concern is the current union leader for the town staff, Tim Falkiner, sits on town council. Isn’t this a conflict of interest? Yes, we now get to meet with council to discuss our concerns – a whole two minutes. This seems to indicate that council doesn’t think we have anything worthwhile to say or it is not worth their time to listen! It seems that our mayor and council are intent on moving forward in a direction to benefit themselves at taxpayer’s expense. And yes, I voted in the last election. Merrilee Harker Ponoka
Clarification Following last week’s editorial column, Town of Ponoka Councillor Tim Falkiner has clarified that he does not represent Alberta Gaming and
Liquor Commission (AGLC) but the Stettler-based employees of the organization. We regret the misunderstanding.
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PONOKA NEWS 7
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
PSC School Council meeting seeks to involve students, hears challenges BY MUSTAFA ERIC
Ponoka Town Council may hold one of its future regular meetings at the Ponoka Secondary Campus (PSC) to allow students to get a flavor of how administrative processes work and how municipal leaders carry out their functions in managing the affairs of the town. The idea was floated by Mayor Rick Bonnett, who was present at PSC School Council’s scheduled meeting on Wednesday, Feb 26. The council was discussing ways of involving students in its work by encouraging them to adopt and nurture leadership roles and possible avenues of rewarding them for getting involved. Three students were also present at the council meeting and Principal Ian Rawlinson asked them to contribute to the discussion by giving ideas on students might be inspired to take on leadership roles. The discussion also included the possibility of creating a leadership course based on the “Becoming a Community Builder” program designed by Ian Hill and purchased by the Town of Ponoka last year for both town management and residents before the municipal elections last year. A radical shift on the way Participants at the council meeting also heard a substantive presentation by principal Rawlinson on the visit to the High Tech High School in California and the forthcoming shift in the Alberta education scene. Rawlinson said one of the pri-
mary motivations for their trip to California was to find an answer to what he termed “student apathy”. He explained that the idea of skipping the school appeared to be non-existent among the San Diego school’s students. Rawlinson, in the course of his presentation, also explained a major challenge facing all pre-college schools in the province. He said Education Alberta would require all the K-12 schools in the province to stop using the currently implemented curriculum in 17 months and instruct the implementation of a totally new education system. The new system is understood to be broadly based on the project-based education currently being implemented at PSC. (A more detailed story on the new system, Inspiring Education, is on page 17). PSC School council will have its next meeting on April 16.
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 Earth Hour 2014 Join Millions of people across the world who switch light off for an hour – to raise awareness for the planet Saturday, March 29, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM
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.
Water Conservation Corner – Water Saving Tips Report Leaks in Fire Hydrants. Report leaks in fire hydrants, plumbing, or other public facilities so that they can be repaired 403-783-4431.
Recycling How To – Mixed Paper
ACCEPTABLE ITEMS: Newsprint, office paper, magazines, phone books, gift wrap, tissue paper, envelopes, paper bags and flattened cardboard (i.e. toilet paper rolls, paper towel rolls, egg cartons, food item boxes, shoes boxes) can all go into the MIXED PAPER bin at the recycle depot. PREPARATION TIPS: Remove food or residue from any paper items (i.e. pizza boxes) Items that can’t be recycled: Padded envelopes, carbon paper, elastic bands, paper clips, metal fasteners, plastic liners and plasticized or waxy cardboard (i.e. frozen vegetable boxes) go in the garbage.
EVENTS AND RECREATION FAMILY LEGO CLUB: Ponoka Jubilee Library invites children & adults to take part in our Family Lego Club. Come build whatever your imagination can come up with! All Lego will be provided by the library, and the masterpieces will be put on display for all to see. Meetings in March will be Thursday March 13th and Friday March 28th, both from 3:30-5:00. LEGO CLUB MEETS EVERY SECOND WEEK, ALTERNATING THURSDAY & FRIDAY AFTERNOONS. CRAFTERS CLUB: Do you Knit? Crochet? Scrapbook? Paint? Crafters of all types are invited to come to the library once monthly for a Crafters Club! Work on something old or maybe learn something new, all while enjoying the company of fellow crafters. And for the moms out there, get a chance to work on your projects with a little peace and quiet. Crafters Club meets every 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of the month, March meetings will be March 5th & March 19th, from 6:30-8:00. PONOKA SKATING CLUB CARNIVAL: Friday, March 7th - Solo Showcase at 7 p.m., Saturday March 8. Carnival performances at 11 a.m. & 3 p.m. at the Arena Complex. Like us on Facebook to stay up to date on all our events!!
Aquaplex Update
Starting March 6th at 7:30 pm, new and improved water fitness classes! Come and check it out!!
Public Skating: Proudly sponsored by Ponoka Lions
Need a hand with your taxes? VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX PROGRAM Volunteers, trained through the Canada Revenue Agency, are ready to help you complete your income tax and benefit return! A FREE service provided for low income individuals or families, by attending the following clinics:
March 18, 1:30 – 3:30 at Seniors’ Drop-in Centre April 1, 5-7pm at Seniors’ Drop-in Centre April 8, 1:30 – 3:30 at Seniors’ Drop-in Centre Returns may also be dropped off at the FCSS office April 1 and April 8, mornings only. Call Ethel or Kerry at 403-783-4462 for information and eligibility.
Monday - Thursday: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday: 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm **Shinny Hockey on Weekdays only**
Recreation Facilities Schedule is On-line Check it out at www.ponoka.ca and click on ‘Recreation in Ponoka’.
COUNCIL UPDATES & BYLAW INFO Notice The Public Hearing to amend Land Use bylaw 013-97 by reclassifying Lot 1, Plan 236RS from Low Density Multi-Family Residential (R2) District to High Density Residential (R4) District, will be held on March 11th, at 7:00 pm, with the regular Council meeting to follow.
Next Town Council Meetings March 11 & March 25, 2014 @ 7 pm Visit our website www.ponoka.ca for copy of the agenda.
Did you know….? Building and Development Permits are required when constructing a new residence, garage, garden shed, deck, demolishing an existing development or when making structural changes to your home. Also, the Town Office issues Electrical, Gas & Plumbing permits for work within the Town. Stop by the office or call 403-783-0119 if you are unsure about permit requirements. We would be happy to assist you.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
We could learn a lot from crayons. Some are sharp, some are pretty and some are dull. Some have weird names and all are different colors, but they all have to live in the same box. ~ Unknown
8 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
First Nations culture needs encouragement in classrooms BY AMELIA NAISMITH
In the last several years, Alberta has stepped further into the light to acknowledge the tragedies in the past of the country’s First Nations people as well as understand and accept their needs moving forward in a country where their identities are often conflicted by dominant modern culture and previous ties to tradition; these issues are especially difficult to navigate for First Nations youth. Through workshops and sessions, like the one presented the Wolf Creek Public School’s recent Support Staff Conference, these ideals and practices are expanding further into the classroom than ever before. Christa Henderson, a Maskwacis Wahkotowin teacher, and Donna Twins-Hardy, a Maskwacis Wahkotowin liaison, moderated the session which was attended by two WCPS board members: trustee Lorrie Jess and chairperson Trudy Bratland. In the spring of 2013, Dr. Shauna Bruno of the Maskwacis Education Council put forth a Wahkotowin Report after an extensive look into what parents concerned with the sustainability and presence of First Nations culture wanted in the school system. The report brought clarity to the want for — including but not limited to — a high quality, responsive First Nations education programming, active involvement of families through communication and collaboration, students having access to opportunities such as sports and travel, staff knowledge of cultural practices, learning practices focusing on supporting the capacity of First Nations students, and a presence of cultural teachings in the school to reinforce the importance of identity to the students. Henderson says after the Wahkotowin Report was released, 10 Maskwacis Wahkotowin liaisons were hired as well as one Maskwacis Wahkotowin teacher, who is Henderson, herself. The Wahkotowin strategy works with every student, not only the First Nations ones, as well as staff members in the Wetaskiwin school division. Henderson and Twins-Hardy share their time between Pigeon Lake Regional School, Falun School and Lakedell.
“We teach our language, our cultural traditions,” said Twins-Hardy. “We act as resources from our own school and bring them to the community.” Wahkotowin acts as more than a school and academic program for the First Nations students. They, in traditional First Nations importance
“Sometimes by creating those real world scenarios, it’s not artificial, there’s nothing to rebel against” - Christa Henderson
placed on unity, family and connection, immerse themselves in a student’s life; monitoring school attendance, bringing teaching staff to the reserves for home visits. Between Henderson and TwinsHardy’s experiences, the home visits help address concerns with the students in their school life as well as build respect between the school and the parents and the community. “We’re seeing it more and more, teachers are going out into the Maskwacis community. That presence in the community causes huge shifts in how those students are going to interact with you,” said Henderson. Henderson and Twins-Hardy’s presentation circled the idea of how the Cree values stand on their own when welcomed into the classroom and have benefits for the school as a whole, not just the First Nations students. “Wahkotowin is a word that means kinship and how we all relate to each other . . . Everything is connected,” said Henderson. Colonization’s affects She says cultural gaps stem from many areas and are just as present in the classroom as they are elsewhere if teachers and staff don’t make themselves more aware of how they interact with First Nations students. “When you’re trying to interact with your students, you’ll already find a barrier.” “How do we not even know we’re setting ourselves up to create a barrier,” she added. Cultural gaps can be widened and barriers built through teaching style and factors a little and seem-
ingly insignificant as voice projection. Henderson says teachers often use clear, direct voices. However, First Nations students usually aren’t to that in their culture, where softer more inviting tones are used. She believes this difference dates back to colonialism where Europeans forced themselves and their culture upon the First Nations people. She says when working with First Nations students a softer tone should be adopted. “I’m not going to force my voice into your ears.” Although education in off-reserve schools has been changing through initiatives such as Action on Inclusion and Inclusive Learning, education strategies have historically been teachers holding the position of power while students memorize information without being given the opportunity or tools to employ it. “I believe it because my teacher told me so,” Henderson explained. In First Nations culture knowledge and education is more self-directed. “I believe it because I experienced it myself,” said Henderson. She used a Grade 7 boy in one of the schools she teaches in as an example. The boy’s teacher was unable to assess his reading level because when tested he would rebel, become belligerent and shut down. In an attempt to open him up, Henderson took him on as an aide on a half-day trip to read to younger classes. “He read beautifully,” said Henderson. “Sometimes by creating those real world scenarios, it’s not artificial, there’s nothing to rebel against,” said Henderson. Including cultural practices Following up on the idea of enhanced communication and involving family in their child’s education, Henderson says more culture in the form of ceremony should be encouraged as well as understood. Last year, three high school students missed close to half their school year because they were involved in the Powwow circuit. Their principal was able to look past traditional learning boundaries to see their involvement as work experience
My children are off reserve because it’s a better education” - Donna Twins-Hardy
credits, certain CTS modules, as well as financing and bookkeeping lessons because of what the circuit involved. The practice of smudging was also a heavily discussed topic during the session. Henderson says while the practice needs to be mindful of everybody’s space, schools can create a space for students wishing to smudge. She feels the presence of smudging will also put other students who smudge at ease as well as help to open barriers when elders or parents visit the school. While the cultures can learn off of each other and exist in balance in the same schools, Henderson says many minds need a shift in paradigm surrounding the First Nations culture in Canada, and the ideas of nations and treaties. In European history, nation meant countries and treaties were given heavy importance. An example Henderson used was the Treaty of Versailles which, when broken, began the Second World War. However, historically, treaties made with First Nations people were given a number rather than name, and Henderson said that, throughout history, being given a number was an example of degradation and stripping of importance and identity. There are schools on each of the Louis Bull, Samson, Montana and Ermineskin reserves, but many parents choose to have their children bussed into surrounding communities such as Ponoka or Wetaskiwin. “My children are off reserve because it’s a better education,” said Twins-Hardy. She added when students who attended a reserve school graduate, they struggle next to other graduates because they were taught at a lower standard.
JUST IN TIME FOR SPRING CLEANING Ponoka Legion now accepting donations for their
Drop oƚ items at the Legion Tues. - Thurs. 3 pm to 6 pm or Fri. - Sat. noon to 6 pm. Please call 403.783.4076 for pickup Good re-sellable items only. No clothing, please. Help Us To Help Our Community
PONOKA RISING SUN CLUBHOUSE
Community Blue Box Program For $12.00 per month We will pick up your paper, clean tins, glass, No. 1-5 plastic and cardboard. We also pick up cardboard from local businesses.
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PONOKA NEWS 9
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Ponoka couple receives provincial enforcement order “Because obviously they’re wetlands and they serve a function.”
BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
Draining a lake in Ponoka County has put a Ponoka couple in hot water with the Alberta government. Hendrik and Gerritje Krijger performed unauthorized work on their property on a lake owned by the Crown that contravened the Water Act in October, 2011 and they must now restore the land to its original state. The Krijgers must comply with the order by March, 2015, says Nikki Booth, communications advisor with the Environment and Sustainable Resource Development (ESRD).
- Nikki Booth, communications advisor with the Environment and Sustainable Resource Development (ESRD).
“Really, we focus on education and prevention and enforcement is definitely a tool that we have,” said Booth. ESRD’s goal, however, is to work with individuals or companies before issuing an enforcement
order. “We want to work with individuals and use that education and prevention piece.” The order states that the Krijgers drained the lake, excavated an area near an outlet at the southwest edge of the lake and drained a smaller wetland. They need to immediately stop the work they are conducting and now restore the lake to its previous state, explained Booth. The bed and the shore of the lake must also be returned to the original state and soil added to the southern portion of the lake must be removed. “And they must restore the wetland to the condition and function as it was before the construction of the manmade drainage.” Much of the work conducted by the Krijgers was against the Water Act and Booth says the couple did not have permission from the province. “Obviously when it comes to water bodies, we are pretty specific on the things that we allow and don’t allow. Because obviously they’re wetlands and they serve a function. They function for wildlife or maybe they function for a water source, there’s a number of different rea-
sons,” explained Booth. The Krijgers declined to comment to Ponoka News but comments to the Red Deer Advocate by Mrs. Krijger state they did not drain the lake. She and her husband have been trying to resolve the issue with the province, she told the Red Deer Advocate. “We’re still in conversations to see what to do.” She said the lake was shallow and that it grew and shrank significantly depending on whether it was a wet or dry year. “There’s nothing drained. The lake is still there and there’s lots of water.” What drainage work was undertaken was done on their own land, not Crown land, she said. “We would never, never dig in Crown land. We know to stay away from Crown land.” An existing drainage channel was on the land, which is not used as their home quarter section, when they bought it, she added. “I don’t know if the owner before made it, I have no idea.”
Ponoka Elementary School Principal: Mrs. Lois Spate Assistant Principal: Mrs. Nicole Rawlinson 5004 – 54 Street Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1N8 Phone: (403) 783-3583 Fax: (403) 783-6094 http://www.pes.wolfcreek.ab.ca/pe
Registration and Open Houses at Ponoka Elementary School Registration forms available from the office on February 1, 2014 KINDERGARTEN OPEN HOUSE AND REGISTRATION Thursday March 6, 2014 4:00-6:00 p.m.
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A map of the area contravened by Hendrick and Gerritje Krijger. The couple has received an executive order for work done in 2011 to bring the land back to its original state.
- Birth Certificate is required at the time of registration. - Legal Land Description required at the time of registration/ Proof of residency for the Town or County of Ponoka may be required as well. Registered Kindergarten Students will attend a morning or afternoon orientation on Friday May 9, 2014 The times will be assigned at registration time
PLAY ACADEMY OPEN HOUSE AND REGISTRATION Friday March 14, 2014 1:00 –2:00 p.m. Friday June 13, 2014 1:00 –3:00 pm. - Birth Certificate is required at the time of registration - $50.00 Non-refundable registration fee due at the time of registration
10 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Water issues continue in county BY AMELIA NAISMITH
It’s been a winter wrought with heavy snowfall and, as spring approaches, soon it’s going to begin to melt. However, it isn’t only from the snow that water problems arise for the county. “We’ve got some people very concerned about water,” said Coun. Bryce Liddle, referring to run-off and road conditions. “Just, they’ve got concerns on how it’s going to flow,” he added. Liddle was asking council what the best way was to respond to such concerns and, although CAO Charlie Cutforth says it looks like the county is simply “passing the buck,” there isn’t much it can do. “The reality is the municipality has zero authority on private land.” The only time the county can involve itself in water of drainage issues is if there is potential for it to affect a county road allowance or in-
frastructure. If a county resident has water or drainage issues on their land, it’s up to them to correct the concern. Cutforth says if individuals want to change drainage or divert water, then a license is needed from Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development. “If it affects the neighbor and you’re applying for a license with water resources, that’s part of their licensing approval process,” said Cutforth. Once the neighbor is notified, if the diversion would have an adverse affect on them, it cannot be diverted. Cutforth says in the past good farming practice was to drain wetter areas, making it more suitable for farming. However, that isn’t the case and even the county, when designing roads, must work around the water. “It’s certainly not our mandate. In fact, we do not even have discretion to help somebody drain their
land for them,” said Cutforth. “Not without them having the proper approval.” He feels, with diverting water, problems aren’t being fixed, they’re just handed up to new people in a new section of land. When the county is made aware of people moving water without licensing, they’re obligated to report them to water resources. Cutforth told council he had recently received a copy of an order issued for a couple with land near the Chain
Lakes. The report was made privately and didn’t come through the county. Cutforth says a big part of the problem that follows water is people purchase land, and then attempt strip it of tree and water. “And that has become the norm.” This practice is causing havoc among county residents because they either become frustrated with other land owners for diverting the water or feel they have the right to do the same.
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PONOKA NEWS 11
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12 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Downtown development permit application denied “The plan’s objective for the downtown core is to maintain its significance as a primary retail commercial outlet.”
BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
A request to open a home-based business on Chipman Avenue was declined by the Town of Ponoka. The application came from Mark and Amy Tisdall, who wanted to convert business space — formerly the Complete Wellness Centre — at 5023 50 Avenue to an art and interior design studio with residential space at the rear of the building. The area zoned is discretionary use and residences may be allowed in the central commercial district zoning area. Adjacent landowners were notified of the application and Betty Jurykoski, planning and development officer, said objections from neighbours were strong.
-Town of Ponoka
She said Mr. Tisdall had spoken with businesses on Chipman Avenue prior to making the application but she wanted to ensure proper steps were followed, which is why the letter was sent to residents. One of the reasons the applicants were denied was because Jurykoski received three “strenuous” objections from adjacent landowners.
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“That was enough, in my mind, to refuse the application,” she explained. The applicants wanted a closed storefront that would open for appointments only, and this was contrary to objectives in the Municipal Development Plan. “The plan’s objective for the downtown core is to maintain its significance as a primary retail commercial outlet,” states the refusal letter. “They (businesses) want to see an active downtown,” said Jurykoski, in an interview. Approving the request is inconsistent with plans for the downtown core, the letter continued. The Tisdalls had 14 days from the date of the issue of the notice, which was made Feb. 19. Support for the project appeared slim. The Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce wrote a letter opposed to the application. “We have the need for growth in the downtown business core. Having said that, we feel that business locations need regulations to ensure that they are business-based and not residential-based,” a letter from the chamber states. A suggestion was made to town planners that more structured guidelines for development are needed in the business areas of Ponoka and the chamber offered its services to provide help if needed. Chamber president Jim Hamilton said he feels the organization should take on a more active role advocating its members’ needs and when dealing with the town. “I just very strongly believe that the chamber has to do something for its membership,” said Hamilton. The chamber is in discussion with its members to determine if advocating members’ needs is a desired direction for the future. The Tisdalls were not reachable for comment at press time.
Beware of Cougars Dear Editor, After reading Bob Scammell’s “Outdoors” column in “Central Alberta Life” newspaper regarding cougars increasing in our West Country I bought Paula Wild’s The Cougar (Beautiful, Wild, and Dangerous). Cougars have for years been around the Chain Lakes and Battle River system in Ponoka. The recent picture placed in the Ponoka News proved there’s at least one cat hunting along the Battle River. Cougar attacks take place near trails and ravines. The Town of Ponoka needs to place warning signs stating “cougars frequent this area” at trail heads. How to be safe if you come across one while walking or riding a bike; hogs and deer attract cougars, as well as small children while walking or riding a bike. Place bike in front of you and begin yelling and ring bike bell. Raise your arms to make yourself larger, speak firmly while slowly backing away. Keep eye contact and never turn your back or bend over. Place smaller children on shorter persons behind you and no crying or screaming Carry (an) air horn, whistle or anything that makes loud noise. Everyone yelling helps. (A) knife in sheath helps. Do not leave an injured person behind. The cat might not leave them alone. Do not run, keep eye contact and fight back with whatever you can. Early morning and evenings are hunting times usually. Paula Wild states some areas as example, Vancouver Island, cougars are more aggressive. Do not encourage them to hang around by not scaring them off by making lots of noise. Joyce Reeve
PONOKA NEWS 13
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Paralympic athlete never gives up BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
sequences of the crash have made her lose feelings in her fingertips. She had to quit her job as a Braille translator but has forged through to become a massage therapist. “That will be the best physical
therapy for my wrist,” she joked. Forest concluded by encouraging people to realize that despite life’s hurdles, sometimes pushing through the tough times brings great rewards.
Paralympian Viviane Forest speaks with Wolf Creek Public Schools staff Feb. 20 during a support staff conference. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
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Although she was born with only five per cent of her vision, Paralympic athlete Viviane Forest didn’t let that stop her from winning seven Paralympics medals over the last 10 years. Forest told her life story at the Wolf Creek Public Schools’ (WCPS) support staff conference Feb. 20 and 21 in Lacombe. Her key message: Never give up. As a young child Forest was never told she could not do something despite being visually impaired. Her parents brought her up like any other child and encouraged her to be self-sufficient. Challenges with schoolwork started when Forest was about 11-years-old. Her visual impairment was hurting her grades and Forest started thinking she was not intelligent. “I was not feeling successful. I was not feeling smart.” “For me, sports was my enjoyment. I was very athletic,” she added. Her teachers recommended she go to a school for the blind, which Forest was against. She figured if her teachers couldn’t handle her, then blind teachers would have an even bigger challenge. But, “It was the best thing for me. It was eyeopening.” Those blind teachers ended up being her biggest role models and Forest saw what was available to her in life. She wanted to follow her dream of being an Olympic athlete. Her parents always supported her but had one issue and would say things like, “Yeah, but you’re blind, you know.” Forest joked about her parents pointing out the obvious. She would play hockey with friends but kept getting hurt and couldn’t find the puck. Eventually her competitive nature brought her to a sport called goalball. Athletes are blindfolded and throw a ball with bells in it to a goal. At first Forest thought the game was too easy until she had to put on the blindfold. It made her slow down and learn how to communicate with her teammates and how to focus. She made the national team when she was 16. Her efforts earned her a 2000 and 2004 gold medal at the Paralympic Games. A concussion in
2005 got Forest cut from the team though and she was devastated. She moved to Alberta to become a Braille translator and found a love for skiing. Forest was good enough that coaches recommended she try her skills at competitions but had to find unique ways to pay for her sport. “I went to the bank and I pretended I was doing my basement and I got a loan and I started skiing,” said Forest. Being visually impaired, Forest had to have a guide in front of her to be able to make the slalom and giant slalom challenges. “To work with a guide, it’s like a forced marriage.” Communication with a partner is paramount for a successful run and Forest said athletes become close friends because of it. Forest was too fast for her guides though and continued to pass them down the hill. She went through eight guides before finding a skier who could keep up. Trust is an important factor when skiing with a guide, she added. “Attitude, I think, is 90 per cent of what we have to accomplish.” Forest’s efforts earned her five medals at the 2010 Vancouver Paralympics; gold for the women’s downhill, silver for the women’s slalom, Super-G and combined and bronze in the giant slalom. The downhill challenge was the catalyst that put Forest out of competitive skiing. The race went so well that her guide forgot to tell Forest to stop at the end of the race. The resulting crash broke her wrist and gave her a concussion and Forest still had other races left. “I was laughing. That’s how much in shock I was,” said Forest. The next day she does not remember much except tears and extreme pain before her race. Coaches taped up her hand, which was swollen, moments before her race and that’s when months of practice kicked in. “You cannot fail. You’re so used to training and you’re so used to the movement that your body can’t stop it,” said Forest. Despite not remembering much after the race, Forest earned two silver medals that day but con-
14 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Students at Crestomere School join together to begin their Olweus bully prevention program Feb. 28.
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BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
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Bully prevention has taken on new meaning for Crestomere School. Students and staff unveiled their STEP UP slogan Feb. 28 as part of the Olweus bully prevention program. Crestomere was one of two schools, Mecca Glen being the other, that are piloting the program for Wolf Creek Public Schools. Principal Penny Mueller says the program identifies what bullying is and shows individuals ways to step out of their comfort zone and help others. STEP UP has four rules: We will not bully others We will help students who are bullied We will include students who are left out If we know that somebody is being bullied, we will tell and adult at school and an adult at home Ponoka RCMP Staff Sgt. Cameron Chisholm was integral in bringing Olweus to the schools and looks forward to its implementation. ``It`s one of the proven models and best practises for bully prevention by the National Crime Prevention Centre of Canada.`` ``You have to look at what bullying does and the impact on individuals,`` he added. He says bullying causes depression and issues with relationships and the Olweus program will help identify issues before they begin. ``I`m very proud to have the program in my detachment area,`` said Chisholm.
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Speed skater faces loss at nationals competition Page 23
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Parents who attended the unveiling were shown a video of the program from other areas. The video stated there are three factors to bullying: It’s intentional It repeats There’s an imbalance of power Olweus brings three ways to handling the issue by: Dealing with the existing problems Preventing future problems Is school wide Parents become an active part of the program and can work on bully prevention at home as well, which supports the endeavour. This helps create a consistent understanding of the behavioural expectations set for students. Materials and training was paid for by a grant from Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) and executive director Shannon BoyceCampbell feels there will be positive benefits to the schools. ``Anything with kids and their energy is positive I think. The program was paid for with a $6,300 grant from FCSS that the Ponoka Rotary Club applied for. Every student and teacher had a STEP UP T-shirt and each grade presented their own observations of the program to parents. There was also a barbecue lunch for everyone who attended. PQ - ``I`m very proud to have the program in my detachment area,`` RCMP Staff Sgt. Cameron Chisholm.
PONOKA NEWS 15
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Coun. Loanna Gulka gets a tour of the Ponoka Youth Centre Feb. 27. Here two youth leaders show Gulka around.
Youth Centre visit by councillors enlightening experience BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
Youth leaders and elected officials with the town and county of Ponoka got to know each other a little better last week during a tour of the Ponoka Youth Centre (PYC). Representing the Town of Ponoka was Mayor Rick Bonnett and Coun. Loanna Gulka and for Ponoka County, councillors Nancy Hartford and Bryce Liddle were given tours of the centre. Also Peggy Makofka with Rimbey FCSS attended. As guests to the centre, visitors were able to ask questions of the teenagers who are part of youth leadership programs. “It’s a way to show them what we do here and it’s a safe place to hang out,” said Melissa Wilson, a leader in one of the programs. Wilson explained how she has a mentor but also mentors a young student. She feels there are many opportunities for youth in Ponoka at the centre. At the end of the tour, all five visitors met in an informal setting to hear questions from the youths. One question related to how land can be made available for recreation such as a motocross track. Coun. Liddle replied that Ponoka County is working on a Highway 2 corridor plan for future development and Coun. Gulka said that the town does have land annexed but most of it is privately
owned. The question of the motocross track came up more than once and Mayor Bonnett suggested getting any kind of project off the ground starts with a plan. “It comes down to raising funds for it.” There was a question on how the town spends money. A youth pointed out that they hear many times how the there is no money for capital projects but they see odd projects being conducted. Bonnett replied that councillors must share taxes and government grants among many projects within the town but if youths bring enough interest something such as a motocross track, then councillors can help steer them in the right direction. “The sky’s the limit when it comes to fundraising.” “You start the drive and we’ll back you…It has to come from the grassroots,” added Bonnett. Town council has recently been asked to support the PYC financially and one person asked why the Town of Ponoka does not support the centre. Bonnett said councillors still must discuss how they will do that. “You have to understand that money is very tight.” Gulka concluded by saying that while councillors do not always agree on decisions, she feels the best way to handle issues is to be respectful.
2014
Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
Inspiring Change for 35 years
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16 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Raffle winner: Christine Nicholson (middle), won the motorbike raffle held by the Ponoka Air Cadets last week. Here she accepts the bike with the Air Cadets.
Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
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PONOKA NEWS 17
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Inspiring author regales MS struggles at library BY AMELIA NAISMITH
In a spiritual effort to bargain for his own health, William Boulton, now published author, promised to tell his story of struggling with MS in hopes to motivate those also struggling with personal challenges. Bashaw Municipal Library recently received a visit from Boulton as he promotes his recent book I Miss Me. “The purpose of the book is this: inspire others. No matter what happens in life, internal or external, never let a challenge defeat you,” said Boulton. In early 2007, Boulton, who was 21 at the time, was diagnosed with relapse or remitting MS, also known as Galloping MS. “I was playing pool with my dad and low and behold, I lost feeling in my body straight across my waist.” Boulton didn’t think much of the phenomenon and figured his lower body had simply fallen asleep, but by the end of the pool game the feeling had spread to half his body. The following day a doctor’s visit assured him it was a pinched nerve, yet the feeling, or lack thereof, had spread up to his neck. “We went hospital chasing.” Boulton says he really began to worry when he was shipped to Calgary with an envelope stating ‘admit upon arrival.’ He says that was the moment his life changed forever. A doctor told him ‘there is a high chance you could be diagnosed with MS.’ “You never let that time go, it sticks with you.” Growing up on a farm outside of Red Deer, Boulton spent his childhood working with cattle and driving tractors. “Family, my grandfather, everybody, they taught me hard work. You have to do something with yourself.” After dabbling in the oilfield and spending more time at the farm, Boulton, along with a few business partners, decided to start their own company—Explosive Production Ltd.—which is coming out with a prototype this year and it’s intended to compete with Ticketmaster. At the time of his diagnosis, Boulton says he was suffering from an ongoing lack of sleep and high levels of intense, negative stress. MS is an inflammatory disease where antibodies attack a person’s myelin sheath surrounding the nerves and disallows the body’s impulse messages to be sent along the nerve cells. Although the work is theory-based, some of the speculated causes of MS include genetics, a person’s living distance from the equator, and the season they were born in. “You can’t move your body. Sometimes you can’t taste and sometimes, I went through it, you can taste salt all the time,” said Boulton. “I lost feeling from my neck down and I only had feeling in my right arm,” he added. After a few months of living with the effects of MS, as he was getting used to his new disposition in life, Boulton was sitting in a chair reading a book when, within a two minute timeframe, Subway Fresh feeling returned to his Try our entire body. After his body returned to a perceived normal state, Boulton quickly slipped back into his bad habits of a poor diet, lack of exercise and high stress levels for the summer
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months. At his young age he figured he d beaten the disease; he, like most naïve young people, believed in his own invincibility. By September he was back in the hospital. “Not being able to walk, talk, taste, feel and hear. They didn’t know if I was going to make it.” Lying in his hospital bed, looking at his situation from his distraught parents’ point of view Boulton wanted to prove the doctors’ fears wrong for their sake. He said the doctors could have provided him all the help available to them, but that’s not where his survival was coming from. “The battle was with me.” Boulton had a metal bar hanging above his bed in the hospital and he would spend hour after hour willing and fighting with his body to reach up and touch it. When it finally happened Boulton said the accomplishment felt like he had moved a mountain. At one of his lowest points at the hospital, Boulton’s parents dropped by with some photos of the farm to cheer him up. Across the camera’s screen flashed an older picture of Boulton. “Happy, healthy, like I was unaware of what was going to happen to me later that year. And I hate to say it ,but I broke into tears and said I missed me.” Boulton is one of the 50 per cent of those diagnosed with MS who live a drug free life. He now manages his health with many vitamins, stress management, good eating habits and listening closely to his body. Last year, his stress levels once again reached top heights and Boulton lost feeling in his legs. “I went back to running. It was winter still and I had no feeling in my feet. It was scary and exciting when you can’t feel your feet touch the ground and you’re giving it your all.” Boulton says one of the best parts of penning his story has been the chances to meet and talk to new people and share his life in a positive light. “Galloping MS, it’s a one-way street,” he said. “You always have a choice not to play the victim.”
New ministerial order shifts education’s future BY AMELIA NAISMITH
A new provincial ministerial order has been delivered to school divisions, further changing the direction of education from what is being considered ‘old school’ tactics to the new way of thinking. “This whole document is on Inspiring Education,” explained Larry Jacobs, Wolf Creek Public Schools superintendant. Several years ago, divisions across the province came together to lay the groundwork for the future of education in Alberta and speculate what being a student in 2030 would look like. It was those meetings and the following processes that spawned the order. “That was kind of a wake up call for the minister to say ‘okay, if this is where we want to go, I have to change the direction of education,’” said Jacobs. This order will have divisions, schools and teaching staff now focus-
ing on student competency as much as they have content in the past. “It’s not so much what you learn by what you can do with it,” said Jacobs. Education tactics are moving toward what Jacobs — and the rest of the province — is calling the three E’s: Engaged students with Ethical mindsets and Entrepreneurial spirits. “No longer can we just open a textbook and say here’s your assignment,” said Jacobs. With the order, Alberta will continue to develop strategies to encourage students to take an active role in their own academics by interesting them and allowing them to create their own ideas and hypothesis’ rather than simply memorize and regurgitate. Jacobs says within two to three years Alberta’s program of study will have changed what and how each subject is taught as well as the outcomes. He added that there would be a major shift from simply focusing on knowledge to having students be able to wield their knowledge.
THANK YOU from the Rimbey Women’s Conference Committee to the following businesses and individuals for their generous support of our 28th annual conference held on Feb. 13/2014. Alberta Financial Services Corp GLDC Gas Coop Traditions Photography FCSS BRIX Construction Bargain Shop Ponoka County Sheila’s Beauty Styles Winfield Country Stitches Jeweller Next Door Rimbey Co-Op Rimbey Adult Learning Council Michael’s Studio Blooms Flower Shop Super 8 Motel Rimbey Barber Shop Travel by Sandy Mandy’s Fashions Beulah McLaughlin Body and Sole Sekura Auction Mart Midwest Propane EckRim Agencies NAPA Manes 2 Steel Magnolias Some Beach Sommer Home Hardware Rimbey Subway Dots Crafts & Fabrics 2004 Imperial ESSO service (1971) Ponoka Professional Pharmacy Servus Credit Union Flowers for You ATB Financial Teresa Turner, Direct Travel Services Game On Outdoors Ponoka Western Wear (Jones Stationery, Stories & Sounds Brothers) Rimbey Pharmasave Ponoka Library Rimbey Home Hardware Flower Gallery Rimbey Value Drug Mart Ponoka County Rimbey Liquor Store Benjamin Natural Gas Coop Rimbey Eye Care Canola Association Rimbey Ford Whitgan Creations & Gifts LWM Consulting Irene Wegmann Scratchin’ The Surface Henry’s Side Street Liquor Store Egg Farmers of Alberta Buist Motor Products A SPECIAL THANK YOU To our presenters: George Boelcke, Bob Layton, Linda Bernicki, Myrna Pearman, Gayle Rondeel, Dr. Pat Burrage and Robin Anderson, Chris Barnes, Sandra Bingeman, and our MC Shannon Boyce-Campbell.
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ALSO THANKS to all the Table Vendors, FCSS staff, Community Centre Staff, Rimbey 4-H Club, Bluffton West 4-H Beef Club, MaD Caterers, Rimbey Review and Ponoka News, Ponoka County office staff, Rimbey Drop In Centre, Irene Wegmann for the music, and everyone who attended. Our deepest apologies if we missed anyone.
18 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Federal budget’s focus for 2014 on jobs BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
program is underway to replace the old RCMP and coastguard vessels used in the north. “The world is getting smaller and smaller… There’s only so much land. There’s only so much resources, whether it’s renewable or non-renewable,” said Calkins.
Small businesses rank Alberta third in supportive attitude, Redford gets below average rating
The federal government is on track for a balanced budget in 2015, according to the Economic Action Plan 2014, which is the federal budget reNew survey results from the said Richard Truscott, CFIB’s Alberta leased to Canadians recently. Much of the focus Canadian Federation of Inde- Director. appears to be on job creation and development of pendent Business (CFIB) reveal “She often talks about the imporCanadian resources. dramatic differences in how confident tance of entrepreneurship, but too To work with that goal, $28 million over the small businesses are that their pro- often that talk doesn’t translate into next two years is set aside to the National Energy vincial governments have a vision to action. The impending unveiling of a Board to bring timely reviews of project applicasupport entrepreneurship and small provincial small business strategy is a tions. Tariffs have also been eliminated on mobile business. promising initiative that we sincerely offshore oil and gas drilling units. Respondents in Saskatchewan hope receives more attention from AlUniversities may see an increase in their budberta’s top political leader.” - Blaine Calkins, Wetaskiwin MP were by far the most confident that gets as well with the implementation of a $1.5 their provincial government has a viResults on the question of vibillion research fund; the Canada First Research sion that supports entrepreneurship sion correlate closely with whether and small business (72 per cent). The respondents would recommend startExcellence Fund provides money to research in sciRenewable resource development other “new west” provinces of British ing a business in their province. On ence and technology in post-secondary institutions While there is some discussion in the budget Columbia and Alberta ranked 2nd and this question again, Saskatchewan over 10 years. about renewable resources, there is little talk of de- 3rd respectively in terms of confidence ranked first, Alberta placed second Wetaskiwin MP Blaine Calkins said there were opportunities for labourers wanting to further their veloping renewable resources. Calkins said there with 48 and 40 per cent. Quebec and and Manitoba finished last. The report education in trades. The Canada Apprentice Loan have been programs but Canada’s natural resources Manitoba (tied for last in the rankings), also ranked provincial governments in had only eight per cent of respondents specific policy areas like taxation, red expands the Canada Student Loans Program to help are great. “The reality is Canada’s blessed with an abun- expressing confidence in their gov- tape and labour laws. Overall, 44 per apprentices with training costs. “These are all useful things for Alberta’s econo- dance of resources and the world is knocking on our ernment’s vision to create a small cent of small business owners would businesses friendly climate. recommend starting a business in their my as a whole and for Canada’s economy overall,” door asking for those resources,” he explained. A number of changes made in the budget have In the middle of the pack, New- provinces. he said. “Everyone should be worried about In rural Alberta there are many jobs available been implemented to streamline the red tape when foundland and Labrador was 4th (27 but they are “highly skilled” and Calkins suggests it comes to resource development. Calkins said the per cent); Prince Edward Island 5th these less-than-stellar results. When regulatory process can take five to 10 years before a (21 per cent); New Brunswick 6th (19 small business thrives, so too does the this will help trades people. per cent); Ontario 7th (15 per cent); middle class. Creating the conditions “This is making sure that we reduce those barri- project gets started. and Nova Scotia 8th (12 per cent). It for small business success should be a Despite this desire to ensure projects start ers and make sure that people get the training they should be noted that the survey was top priority in Alberta,” said Truscott. sooner, Calkins said the government will ensure need,” explained Calkins. CFIB intends to make this an anenvironmental protection is in place. “We’ve got in- conducted before the recent Nova ScoFunding for First Nations tia election. nual report that policymakers can use vestments in this budget for tanker safety.” Education for First Nations has been planned Although the Alberta Governas a benchmark. With budget season To balance things, penalties have increased for for as well to meet a growing population. “One of the fastest growing demographics for violators and keeping tankers from spilling with ment had a relatively good showing in full swing across the country, this Canada is aboriginal youth. A great number of double walls has also been implemented. He says in the survey, it’s a different story for report provides provinces with a perPremier Redford. Only 8 per cent of fect opportunity to respond quickly to young people are going to be requiring quality edu- this will ensure a predictable market for investors. An additional $500 million over two years has entrepreneurs surveyed said she under- the concerns of entrepreneurs. cation,” said Calkins. stands the realities of running a small The key recommendations to proHe suggests the key to success in this case is been budgeted for the Automotive Innovation Fund, business. vincial governments from this year’s to provide funding for First Nations but how that which supports research and development projects “Alberta has been resting on its report are to focus on keeping taxes will unfold is uncertain and there are still hurdles in the industry. laurels for too long. It’s time for the reasonable, controlling government The budget projects a surplus of $6.4 billion by to cross. Premier to take a more active role in spending, reducing red tape, balancing “There’s lots of issues. Whether it’s attendance, the 2015-16 budget. the issues that impact small business,” labour laws and balancing budgets. whether it’s curriculum or funding,” said Calkins. How are you Planning will take time as there are differSponsored by ent education authorities such as the Maskwacis educational authority. “So every band chooses PORTABLE TOILET SERVICES to do that differently.” • Restroom Trailers “I don’t know the • VIP Solar Powered Units exact details of the im• Handicap Units plementation but what’s • Portable Toilets important is making sure that resources are Commercial • Residential • Recreational available,” he added. 403-342-6198 403-783-8322 Asserting Canada’s sales@littlejons.ca sovereignty in the north 14031KA1 Money is being invested in Arctic stations Snuggle and seabed mapping to ensure Canada’s stake up with in northern Canada is AFSC is Alberta’s Farm and Business Lender. We have the financial ensured. this “Bear” solutions to help you grow your business. Calkins said money is also being invested to Lab mix! ensure transportation to AFSC Farm Loans Offer: the north. • Loans up to 5 million dollars “We can’t claim To adopt call • Competitive, long term interest rates sovereignty if we don’t • Beginning Farmer Incentive - Reduced rates know what’s there… Ponoka Animal Services • No early payment penalty We are getting chal(Old MacDonald Kennels) lenged,” said Calkins. Check our website 1-877-899-AFSC (2372) www.AFSC.ca www.oldmacdonaldkennels.ca A large coastguard
“This is making sure that we reduce those barriers and make sure that people get the training they need.”
PET OF THE WEEK
403-783-7447
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
PONOKA NEWS 19
Dealing with stress Bill Herman, a USbased trainer, visited Ermineskin Cree Nation last week to conduct seminars on how to deal with stress and non-violent ways of releasing energy to get rid of stress and daily pressures of life. “Managing stress and managing emotions in healthy ways is one way of giving the young people the idea that they have a choice to what direction their life is headed� said Herman during the first day of the twoday training program at the Ermineskin High School gym. During the training exercise, participants created, altered and recreated human sculptures by putting their bodies and limbs in a variety of different shapes while adding their facial expressions to the sculpture. Participants said after the exercise that they had felt the power of expression in particular by reflecting their emotions through their facial posture. Photo by Mustafa Eric
20 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
“Glaucoma often develops gradually and painlessly without noticeable symptoms,” says Dr. Kallal. While the exact cause is not completely understood, glaucoma is commonly caused by the overproduction of fluid and/or a decrease in fluid being drained from the eye, which damages the optic nerve. As the fibers that make up the optic nerve are damaged due to increased pressure on the nerve, the amount and quality of information sent to the brain decreases and a loss of vision occurs. “If diagnosed at an early stage, eye drops and laser treatment can control the disease and in some cases little or no vision loss will occur,” says Dr. Kallal. “If left untreated, peripheral vision is affected first, followed by central vision loss during late stages of the disease, which can then lead to complete blindness.” In Alberta, anyone who requires medical treatment for eye related disease or illness is covered by Alberta Health. Medically necessary optometric services include: • monitoring for diabetes and glaucoma; • retinal detachment, defects and diseases; • eye infections or injuries; • inflammation of the eyelid; • foreign objects in your eye; • sudden changes in vision; and • pre and post-operative care for cataract patients. Additionally, the cost for an annual eye examination is covered for children and teens up to age 19 and adults 65 years and older.
The ‘silent thief of sight’ SUBMITTED
Ponoka optometrists are raising awareness about one of the leading causes of vision loss in Alberta – Glaucoma. A new provincial survey reports that nearly half of Albertans (44 percent) who don’t have a regular optometrist believe they don’t need one, or that they don’t have eye problems. The fact is, many eye diseases don’t have symptoms, and without a comprehensive eye examination per-
formed by a doctor of optometry, it’s impossible to determine if you have, or are at risk of developing an eye disease. March 9-15 is World Glaucoma Awareness Week, and local optometrist, Drs. Mark ZoBell and Marc Kallal want to remind Ponoka residents to consult with their optometrist about glaucoma prevention and detection. “A comprehensive eye examination is often the only way to detect glaucoma,” says Dr. ZoBell. “During
FIRST CHOICE REALTY
403-783-8881
(PONOKA) LTD.
Bay 6, 5103 - 48 Ave. Box 4325 Ponoka, AB T4J 1R7
SANDRA LYON Broker/ Owner
“Glaucoma often develops gradually and painlessly without noticeable symptoms.” - Dr. Marc Kallal
your exam, your optometrist will look into your eye to assess the health of the optic nerve, measure your field of vision and perform a simple and painless procedure called tonometry, which measures the internal pressure of your eye.” Glaucoma impacts children and adults, but is most frequently seen in people over the age of 40. Those with diabetes, high blood pressure or a history of eye injuries are at even greater risk of developing the disease.
LISA SMITH
FEATURE PROPERTY
WEST OF RIMBEY
Associate 403-704-0646
real estate central alberta
CENTRAL PONOKA
6000 - 48 Ave., Ponoka
ED
REDUC
PICTURE PERFECT ACREAGE!
145 acres with beautiful log home, double detached garage & shop. 4 bdrms & 3 baths. Many great features to this farm available through brokerage. Located minutes west of Rimbey. Listing realtor is related to sellers.
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.
$798,000.00
$184,900.00
TO VIEW ALL LISTINGS VISIT US ONLINE AT: WWW.FIRSTCHOICEPONOKA.COM
• Fantastic Morning Meadows location • 5.13 Acres well set up for horses • Excellent, family friendly house – move in ready • 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3350 sq ft of living space • Attached double plus 24x40 heated shop
DON’T MISS THIS ONE!
YOUR LOCAL INFORMATION SOURCE
www.ponokanews.com
$563,500
6000 - 48 Ave.
(Beside The Old Iron Horse Restaurant)
real estate central alberta HOME SWEET HOME
- 3 bdrm & 2 baths - 1136 sq ft of spacious living - Some rec recent upgrades - Great loca location close to amenities & rec. facilities
403-783-5007 FENCED CORNER LOT
SOLD
- 1358 Square Feet - 4 B/R, 3 Bath - Hardwood Flooring Flo - Open, Living A Area w/ Vaulted Ceiling - Large Island iin Kitchen G t LLocation! ti - Great
TODD REED
JANE WIERZBA
DEB STEVENS
LISA SMITH
Associate
Assoc. Broker
Associate
Assoc. Broker
Associate
CUSTOM BUILT
$299,900 Call Jane
$254,900 – Call Jane EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY!
- 1080 sq ft w/ 5bdrms, 2 baths - Spacious bungalow w/ open floor plan - Fully finished basement - Double attached garage - Covered Deck
BOB TILTGEN
ONE OF A KIND HOME!
SOLD
- 4-Level Split - Extensive upgrades & remodeling - Unique open concept - Spacious kitchen open to upper & lower Levels - 4 bdrm, 2 baths
HANDYMAN SPECIAL REDUCED
$359,000 Call Deb
- 65.09 acres west of Bluffton - 800+ sq. ft. bungalow - Move in ready - New windows, doors, shingles, etc. - Gorgeous mature yard
FANTASTIC STARTER HOME!
G
NEW LISTIN
- Fully finished one owner home - 1368 sq. ft. Bi-level, 4 bdrms, 3 baths - Excellent Riverside location on a quiet street - Wood burning fireplace, ample cabinets plus island - Gas fireplace in family rm, bright laundry room
RENOVATED BI-LEVEL G
NEW LISTIN
- Gorgeous 1524 sqft Walk-out - 4 Bdrms & 3 Baths; 2 Kitchens! - 2 Fireplaces; Spiral staircase - Dble garage w Heated Workshop - Large 90 x 155 landscaped lot
$410,000 Call Bob
ONE OF A KIND
- 1170 sq. ft., 4 bdrms, 3 baths - New flooring, upgraded siding & windows - Bar area, fireplace - Great corner fenced lot - Located near playground & rec area $269,900 ~ Call Todd to view • 43 Beautiful acres • 1600 sq ft Walk-out • 3 bdrms & 3 baths • Many extras! • Stunning Property • 42 x 48’ metal quonset, 14’walls, wood stove • Features 3 hole Golf Course
$590,000 Call Bob
SANDHILL ESTATES - 2.72 ACRES
G
NEW LISTIN
- 1992 sq ft Modular home w/ 3bdrms & 2 baths - 10 acres 1 mile from Mecca Glen School - Detached double garage, triple garage, & outbuilding used as woodwork shop
$389,900 Call Jane
$494,900 Call Jane
- 1.5 Storey Home in Central Ponoka - 2 Bedroom, 1.5 bath - Handyman Special
AFFORDABLE ACREAGE LIVING! Attached Single & Detached
1288 sq ft Bungalow Double Garage 2.9 Acres Open Floor Plan Many Upgrades
$380,000 Call Deb
- Beachfront cottage - Fully serviced - On ½ acre lot with lots of privacy - Check it out today!
FANTASTIC ACREAGE OPPORTUNITY!
$199,900 Call Lisa
$245,000 Call Lisa
$322,900 ~ Call Todd
LARGE HILLSIDE BUNGALOW
YEAR ROUND RECREATION!
SOLD
$330,000 Call Lisa
PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP
- Warm & Inviting 1330+ sq ft - 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home - Fantastic Lucas Heights location - Lots of updates yard and RV - Fully fenced ya parking
HERE IT IS!
$60,000 – Call Deb
$410,000 Call Deb
GREAT ACREAGE/HOBBY FARM
- 1721 sqft w/ 3 bdrms & 3 baths - Gorgeous open floor plan - Fully fenced, tiered flowerbeds & pond - Huge lot 50’x187’ - Pride of workmanship throughout
1400 sq.ft. 5 bdrm, 3 bath Finished up and down Huge windows, built in bar Granite, hardwood, built-in vac ICF foundation, covered deck Quick possession
$320,000 Call Lisa SANDHILL ESTATES - 2.72 ACRES
G
NEW LISTIN
$478,000 - Call Todd to view
CLOSE TO SCHOOLS! - 1.5 Storey, 3 Bdrms & 1 Bath - Close to school & downtown - Property is very neat & clean - Immediate Possession - Very Affordable
$129,900 Call Bob
- Cute, cozy & warm older home - Outbuildings, shelters & small barn area - Great pens & pasture, auto waterer - Almost 10 acres, 20 mins from Ponoka - Won’t last long – book your showing today
Spacious 1400 sq. ft. bi-level Fully finished 5 bdrms, 3 baths Large Island plus built in cabinet Quality finishing, granite, hardwood Immediate Possession Only minutes from town
$478,000 – Call Todd
OWNER MOTIVATED
- 1388 sq ft, 5 bdrms & 3 baths - Many Upgrades! - Great condition & Move-In Ready! - RV parking; large yard - Backs onto park reserve
$349,900 Call Bob
TO VIEW A COMPLETE LIST OF OUR PROPERTIES AND VIRTUAL TOURS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT
www.ponokaproperties.com
PONOKA NEWS 21
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Information at your finger tips
www.ponokanews.com Deb Stevens
real estate central alberta 6000 - 48 Ave., Ponoka
Associate Broker
403-704-3152
NEW ON THE MARKET SPACIOUS LIVING! - 3 bdrm, 4 Bath - Spacious Floor Plan - Open Living Space - Finished on all 3 Levels
262,000
$
Call Deb!
GREAT STARTER OR REVENUE PROPERTY - 3 bdrm, 1.5 bath - Corner Lot near Park - Full Basement - Single Garage + Carport
179,000
$
Call Deb!
Musical entertainment: Folks were in for a folk music treat March 1 at the Seniors DropIn Centre. Vic Mullen led the group with his banjo and fiddle playing.
JOHN W. LOW Agencies Inc.
5118 - 50th Street, Ponoka
GET READY FOR SPRING 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.
Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
1-800-392-8658
403-783-5512
RED DEER LAKE Full time living or recreational property at Red Deer Lake. 3 bdrm. Very clean property shows pride of ownership. Mature subdivision.
HALF DUPLEX
$
189,900
Call Wayne 403-704-0864
BARE LOT In north end of town for development. Ideal for duplex.
COMMERCIAL
Call Wayne 403-704-0864
$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
SOUTH OF PONOKA
NOW SELLING
Two 10 acre parcels. Walk-out opportunity.
TOTAL COUNTRY CLOSE TO TOWN
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
Call 403-783-3311 www.ponokanews.com
WAYNE McGARVEY
BRIAN HATALA
ANNETTE DODDS
Buying or Selling, call Jane!
NEW LISTINGS THIS WEEK
Call Wayne 403-704-0864
Great location on main street of Ponoka. Total space 2750 sq. ft building and lot only.
real estate central alberta
6000 • 48 Ave, Ponoka
Jane Wierzba 403-358-8770
SHAWNA LOW Broker
PROFESSIONAL REALTORS OF JOHN W. LOW AGENCIES INC.
• 2+2 bdrms & 2 baths • Fully finished basement • Landscaped & partially covered deck • Single detached garage
2 229,900 PRICED FOR QUICK SALE $
• Being sold “ as is, where is” • Built in 1992 • 1182 sq ft 4 level split • Large Corner Lot!!
263,000
$
AWESOME FAMILY HOME • 4 bdrms & 3 baths • 1261sqft bungalow w/ open floor plan • Beautiful ‘ Show Home’ kitchen • Completely fenced & landscaped • Great 2 tiered deck
367,500 3
$
22 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Honky-tonk album reaches perfection BY AMELIA NAISMITH
For those tired of modern country rock and are yearning for a more substantial, traditional-country sounding album, Tim Hus’ Western Star is the way to go. Tim Hus’ album moves further away from the mainstream country-rock sounds of popu-
lar country today and is more reminiscent of the neotraditionalist country music that was being released in the 1980s. It’s also comparable to the music of the 1990s and the sounds of Garth Brooks, and early Paul Brandt and Brooks and Dunn. Thrown in are doses of honky-tonk and the sub-genre truck driving country. However, Western Star isn’t solely a fastpaced trip through a time machine. Hus is also able to slip into softer songs while staying true to his bluegrass-esque honky-tonk crooning. Track four, Church of County Music, is the perfect example of Hus slowing things down, allowing listeners to take a breather and really soak in what he’s saying and the meaning, intelligence and diversity that comes with the album. Many of Hus’ songs, including the title song and track one Western Star, are a bunch of rollicking, fast-talking with the objective of pumping up the album for a good time. But just when you think that’s all there is, Hus brings in the balance with songs of substance and amazing imagery. This back-to-basics album is anything but boring as Hus is able to weave a world and story into each of his songs, from truckers blaring down the highways to rustic country churches filled with weathered faced and Stetson hats. Hus’ talent goes beyond his ability of storytelling; his voice is perfect for county, and with complete unity through every aspect of the album, that finishing touch pushes it past the edge of perfection.
Jaime Blinkhorn of Buccaneers enjoying being part of the Buccaneers group taking part in the BBBS Bowl-a-thon at Leisure Lanes on Friday, Feb. 28. Buccaneers were challenged by Ponoka Secondary Campus to a fundraising competition and lost with a total of $1,105 against $ 2,000 of PSC teachers.
Tickets On Sale Now
Pro Rodeo 6:30 p.m. Dodge Truck Giveaway Fireworks Tickets: Adults $40 | Kids 12 & under $20
World Proffesional Chuck Wagon Racing R i 6:30 p.m. Fireworks Tickets $50
Tickets available at Ponoka Stampede ticket office: 403.783.0100 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) or Ticketmaster 403.340.4455 or www.ponokastampede.com
PONOKA NEWS 23
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
A Premature History of the Second Cold War BY GWYNNE DYER
The first mistake of the Ukrainian revolutionaries was to abandon the agreement of 23 February to create a national unity government, including some of the revolutionary leaders, that would administer the country until new elections in December. It would have left President Viktor Yanukovych in office until then, but with severely diminished powers, as the constitution would have been changed to restore the authority of parliament. Leaving a man who ordered the murder of dozens of protesters in power even temporarily was a bitter pill to swallow, but it had tacit Russian support because it saved President Vladimir Putin’s face. However, the crowds on Independence Square refused to accept the deal, and Yanukovych was forced to flee. Parliament subsequently ratified his removal, but it was the mob, and especially the right-wing fighting groups like Praviy Sektor, who led, and the leadership who followed. Putin was humiliated, and he was given the pretext for claiming that Ukraine had fallen to a “fascist coup” as a justification, however flimsy, for rejecting the legitimacy of the new Ukrainian government. The second grave error – and this one was entirely unforced – was the new government’s decision to repeal the law giving Russian equal status as an official language in provinces with large Russian-speaking populations. It delighted Ukrainian-speaking ultra-nationalists in the west of the country, but it needlessly alienated the two-fifths of Ukraine’s population who speak Russian as their first language. So now Putin is bringing pressure on the new Ukrainian government by backing a secessionist movement in Crimea (where three-fifths of the people speak Russian). The rubber-stamp Russian parliament has also granted him authority to use Russian troops elsewhere in Ukraine to “protect” Russians – by which it seems to mean Ukrainians in eastern Ukraine who speak Russian, although they are not actually under attack. Putin has not yet sent Russian troops into the eastern parts of Ukraine. However, pro-Russian crowds have appeared in cities like Kharkov, Donetsk and Lugansk demanding Russian “protection” – amid plausible reports that many people in those crowds are actually Russians imported from just across the border for the occasion, and not Russian-speaking Ukrainians at all. The promised Ukrainian election on 25 May may never happen. The Ukrainian army has been mobilised, and actual fighting could be only days away if the Russians invade eastern Ukraine, or attack the encircled Ukrainian garrisons in Crimea. Maybe Putin is just bluffing; more likely, he doesn’t yet know himself how far he is willing to go. But one thing generally leads to another, and some bluffs are hard to walk away from. Are we on the brink of a new Cold War? It wouldn’t be a hot war, except in
How to eliminate Alberta’s $3.5 billion deficit
never. In Alberta, government employee compensation is wildly out of line with most equivalent jobs in the private sector – 10.3 per cent more for the same job according to the Fraser Institute. The CTF’s balanced budget plan works to close this gap and save $1.26 billion a year by enforcing a hiring and wage freeze, rolling back government wages by 2 per cent, and reducing the number of non-frontline bureaucrats by 5 per cent. Alberta has a competitive business tax rate, but our government continues to subsidize businesses. The CTF’s plan has identified $141 million in low-hanging corporate welfare subsidies that any government interested in balancing the budget would be wise to eliminate, and $100 million in assets held by the Alberta Enterprise Corporation’s slush fund. The CTF’s plan would also see the fiveyear capital plan expanded over seven years. This means that most infrastructure projects current planned would still get built, but that some measure of prioritization will be forced upon the government. Few would disparage the government for building important infrastructure projects that are critical for a growing province, but the government’s plan isn’t to build what can be afforded – or even needed – but to just build everything it wants and put it on the credit card. This is a plan that will result in rising interest payments on the debt (from $205 million in 2009 to a projected $1 billion in 2015), which will eventually crowd out spending priorities like healthcare, education, and of course, infrastructure. When the government 4904 - 50th St. tables its budget Ph. 403-783-3639 on March 6th, Premier Redford PLAYING has only one opMar. 7th-13th tion if she has any intention of SCREEN #1 belatedly keeping her promise to balance the budget without raising taxes: cut spending.
Ukraine. Nobody will send troops to defend Ukraine, nor should they. Nobody is in position to stop Russia from conquering Ukraine if it chooses to, and turning it into a wider European war (or a world Derek Fildebrandt: CTF ALBERTA DIRECTOR war) would not help matters. In any case, Moscow would probably not try to conquer ALL of Ukraine. Kyiv Using the updated numbers from the 3rd and the the west would fight very hard, Quarter Fiscal Update, the Canadian Taxand after they were defeated they would payers Federation (CTF) projects that the continue to resist a Russian occupation Redford government is on track to post a with guerilla tactics, including terror$3.5 billion deficit this fiscal year, bringing ism. Putin doesn’t need that, so part of Alberta’s debt up to $8.7 billion. By the end Ukraine would remain free, and call for of fiscal year 2015-16, Alberta’s debt will outside help. stand at an eye watering $17 billion. It would come, in the form of fiThis, when the premier pledged repeatnancial and military aid, and maybe edly during the 2012 election that she would even what has hitherto been rigorously balance the budget before March 31st, 2014. excluded from the discussion: NATO Unless she has $3.5 billion secretly stuffed membership. And there Russia and evin a mattress, Premier Redford will break erybody in NATO would sit for the next this promise by a spectacular margin. five or ten or twenty years in a frozen The province can no longer cushion its confrontation that would include a trade deficits with the now defunct Sustainabilembargo, an arms race, and a remote but ity Fund, having drawn it down by $14.2 real possibility of a nuclear war. billion since 2008-09. Between the SustainThis is not at all what Putin intends ability Fund withdraws and new debt taken or expects, of course. He is calculating on, the province will have blown $22 billion that once he controls the Russian-speakin just seven years to dam its ‘short-term’ ing parts of Ukraine, he will be able to budget hole, which isn’t even close to being enforce a restructuring of the country as plugged yet. a federation in which the government of It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to tell the eastern, Russian-speaking part will that something must have gone off the rails when the wealthiest jurisdiction in North be permanently under Russia’s thumb, America isn’t able to pay the bills. and will have a veto on the decisions of Finance Minister Doug Horner may tathe central government. ble yet another budget on March 6th with That’s all Putin wants out of this: a the numbers cooked up to look much better Ukrainian government that always rethan they are; but despite his Mr. Horner’s spects Russia’s wishes. It could even best efforts, nothing can hide the fact that pursue a different policy on issues like the Sustainability Fund is nearly empty, and human rights, if it wants (so long as it the government is still spending $3.5 billion doesn’t give Russians ideas). He doesn’t more than it brings in every year. want to micro-manage the place. He’s On February 3rd, the CTF provided not out to conquer the world. He’s not some unsolicited advice to the minister of even out to re-conquer Eastern Europe. finance in the form of a 67-page balanced But Putin’s calculations about budget plan titled Rebuilding the Alberta Ukraine have been wrong every single Advantage. time since the turn of the century. He The CTF’s plan lays out $3.1 billion in backed Yanukovych before 2004, and the spending reductions and savings to balance Orange Revolution proved him wrong. the budget by the end of fiscal year 2015He backed Yanukovych even more enthu16, two years later than Premier Redford’s siastically after 2010; the policy blew up promise during the election. Better late than in his face again. And here he is yet again, backing Yanukovych as the president-in-exile of his Russia-friendly fantasy version of Ukraine. His calculations are wrong. If he continues down this road, Jam session every Saturday at 1 pm. $2 per person. he will cause a quite needless Everyone welcome! political disaster. Monday Billiards 9:00 a.m. Monday through Saturday 50 cents per game. Honor system. Gwynne Dyer is an inMonday Bridge 1:15 p.m. dependent journalist whose Monday 1:30 p.m. Whist articles are published in 45 Tuesday and Thursday Exercise class 9:30 a.m. fun exercise countries. Tuesday Shuffleboard 7:00 p.m.
Ponoka Drop-In Activities 5015 – 46 Avenue
Subway Fresh Try Our
Personal Pizza
Wednesday Sewing Guild 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Wednesday Cribbage 1:00 p.m. Wednesday Duplicate Bridge 7:00 p.m Wednesday Floor Curling 7:00 p.m. Thursday Weaving 1:00 p.m. Phone Betty @ 783-3029 Thursday Partner Bridge 1:15 p.m. Thursday Art Club – Noon to 4:00 pm Thursday Pickle Ball 7:00 p.m. and Tuesdays 1:00 p.m. Friday “500” 1:00 p.m. Memberships still available. $10.00 person. Really inexpensive. To rent our facility contact Dorothy @ 403-783-3027 or George @ 403-783- 3514 or leave a message @ 403-783-5012. Rentals are increasing and we would like to invite our town administration, business groups, and general public (Wedding, funeral, and Birthday groups), to inquire about rentals services and prices early in their planning. We may fit your bill!
Ponoka Capitol Theatre
Mr. Peabody & Sherman 3D
92 min 2:00 PM Sat-Sun 7:00 PM Daily Rated G
SCREEN #2
Pompeii
105 min 2:00 PM Sat-Sun 7:00 PM Daily Rated 14A
24 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
He enjoyed seeing many different equine events throughout the year. Jones said the board’s goal was to get local youths and 4-H clubs into the building and suggests they accomplished that. “With the events, it’s brought in hundreds of thousands of dollars of tourism into our community,” said Jones. “I think that was one of our main goals.” The building was able to function on its own without assistance from the four partners, comprised of the Ponoka Stampede and Exhibition BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE Association, the Ponoka Agricultural Society, the County of Ponoka and the Town of Ponoka. Directors with the Ponoka Ag Event Centre Jones said they intend to use the excess money Society (PAECS) were pleased with the financial to help with operations and to pay down its loan. report during the society’s annual general meeting He expects a busy 2014 as well with very few Feb. 24. openings left for events. The group has seen some growth and profits, There are two capital projects for the associaas shown in their financial statetion this year: building a roof to ment and Gord Parker of Rowland “Most people connect the barn and the main Parker and Associates feels a surevent centre and constructing a look at a not-forplus is important to ensure the sign to inform people of the difprofit and say you ferent event. building operates well. Parker said the unaudited statePAECS looking for a new shouldn’t make ment is in accordance with the member at large money. In this case, Canadian accounting standards Since director Don for not-for-profit organizations. you have to make Letwinetz had to leave the asCapital debt related to assets sociation last year, PAECS has money” is relatively low, explained Parker, been looking for a new member - Gord Parker mainly because much of the ag at large. PAECS vice-president centre was built on government Sherry Gummow said the group grants and donations. “That’s a good thing.” is looking for someone who has fundraising skills. He suggests that PAECS will need a larger “Board experience would be valuable. Right working capital in the event of an emergency. now, we’re kind of lacking on someone to spearRevenue for 2013 was $1.16 million and expenses head, to do some fundraising,” she explained. were $1.09 million, leaving the association with A PAECS committee will interview and even$78,272 of revenue over expenses. tually choose the right candidate. Despite the small profit, Parker suggests more No changes to directors is needed for big projects. There was no change to the executive of the “If you want to further any expansion or PAECS board at its AGM. growth or development of the facility, you’re goBylaws for PAECS state directors must step ing to need some cash for that,” explained Parker. down after two three-year terms and some direc“Most people look at a not-for-profit and say tors appear to be nearing the end of those terms. you shouldn’t make money. In this case, you have The society was formed On July 18, 2008, to make money. If you are generating $914,000 in when Terry and Danny Jones, Gummow, Bowie capital debt, you have to pay it back,” he added. and Dykstra signed the application to form a soPAECS currently has a line of credit for $1.8 ciety. million, which is guaranteed by Ponoka County. Terry Jones said the association does not usuAs of Sept. 30, 2013 the amount owing to that was ally elect officers at the AGM but changes may $914,000. occur soon. PAECS president looks “I’ll have to check and see, but nothing now,” forward to the future he explained. PAECS president Terry Jones said they had a “When that came into affect wasn’t when we busy year and he praised the staff and board mem- started the planning of the building. It’s when the bers for doing a good job. “I wanted to thank the building opened,” Jones added. board for all the hard work… every decision the He suggested next year the Stampede Associaboard made was for the good of the building.” tion may elect a new director. Representing the Stampede Association is Danny and Terry Jones and Dale Olsen; for the Ponoka Agricultural society is Sherry Gummow, VJV MARKET REPORT Cec Dykstra and Linc Drynan; for the Town of MARKET REPORT FEBRUARY 26, 2014 Ponoka, Mayor Rick Bonnett and for Ponoka On Wednesday, February 26, 2014- 2348 head of cattle went through our rings - TOTAL -2348 County, Doug Weir.
Ag event centre society seeing growth and profits
SLAUGHTER CATTLE D1 - D2 cows D3 - D4 cows Holstein cows Heiferettes Bologna Bulls Feeder bulls
85.00-100.00 73.00-84.00 60.00-88.00 75.00-95.00 85.00-112.00 100.00-112.00
Young Bred Cows 1500.00-1650.00 Older Bred Cows 1250.00-1400.00 Good Bred Heifers: NONE 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:
135.00-150.00 140.00-161.00 155.00-174.00 165.00-185.00 185.00-200.00 195.00-219.00 205.00-225.00 205.00-230.00
Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers
Dairy Steers Baby Calves Dairy Type: Baby Calves Beef Type: Hay: Sq Bales Straw: Sq. Bales Greenfeed: Sq. Bales.
95.00-105.00 25.00-105.00 170.00-400.00 4.50-9.00 NONE 4.75-
Rd Bales Rd Bales Rd Bales
120.00-138.00 130.00-143.00 145.00-160.00 155.00-171.00 167.00-180.00 175.00-190.00 180.00-205.00 180.00-200.00
9.00-83.00 28.00 NONE
Vold Jones & Vold Auction Co. Ltd. | Foothills Livestock Auction | Dawson Creek Auction Vold Jones & Vold Co. Ltd. © 2006 4410-Hwy 2A, Ponoka Alberta, Canada, T4J 1J8
Would like to send a Huge Thank You to
Bruce’s For your generous donations to the Educational Seminar for Competitors and Judges held Saturday March 1 at the Calnash Ag Event Centre
Bridging the whole foods gap BY DAVID WHITE
“Although modern consumers are far more concerned about the origins of their food than they once were, keenly eyeing the source of that organic spinach, their concern goes out the window when it comes to wine.” These words appear in a discussion about affordability in The New California Wine, the justreleased book from San Francisco Chronicle wine editor Jon Bonné. It’s what he calls the Whole Foods gap. As he explains, “most consumers, even if they are the type to shop at that particular upscale grocery store and obsess about the origins of their food, simply couldn’t care less about where their wine comes from or how it was farmed.” The numbers back this up. Consider organic food sales. They’re soaring. In 2012, according to government data, sales of organic food increased 7.4 percent over the previous year -- about double the growth rate for food overall. Since 1990, the amount of U.S. farmland dedicated to organic crops and livestock has increased fourfold. Organic meat and produce often cost twice as much as their conventional counterparts. But Americans are beginning to take an interest in where their food comes from. So they’re moving away from industrialized calories and toward production that eschews pesticides and values sustainability, even if it means paying more. With wine, however, Americans still drink cheap, without giving much thought to sourcing or production. The average bottle of wine in the United States sells for just $6.22. Nine in ten bottles sold cost less than $12. Look at Whole Foods. While shopping for free-range chicken, cage-free eggs, and artisanal cheese, consumers are presented with stacks of wine from Three Wishes. Retailing for $3, it’s produced for Whole Foods by the Wine Group, the nation’s secondlargest wine company. Or consider Trader Joe’s. Just feet from where consumers pick up local fruit sits a wall of wine from Charles Shaw. Better known as “Two Buck Chuck,” the wine is produced by Bronco, the nation’s fifth-largest wine company. Wines like these benefit from economies of scale, of course. But they also rely on a host of winemaking tricks. That oaky aroma? It typically
isn’t from barrels, but rather from oak chips and sawdust dumped into the wine. The juiciness is often the result of acid additions. The weight and texture of inexpensive wine could be from concentrates engineered to fill gaps. It’s better wine through chemistry. The grapes for these wines are generally grown in California’s vast Central Valley, where farmers rely on constant irrigation and regular use of chemicals to keep output high. With California experiencing one of its worst droughts in history, the sustainability of these methods is worth scrutiny. This isn’t to say that inexpensive wines are inevitably bad. There are certainly satisfactory options available for less than $10. But spending so little almost guarantees you’ll be drinking industrial wine. Bonné and I recently chatted about this dilemma. “I don’t think that we should be confronted with the option of either beautifully farmed but very expensive grapes on relatively expensive land, or somewhat chemically farmed grapes in industrial vineyards, as our only two options,” he contended. “I think there has to be some middle ground in which you can farm grapes virtuously for a table wine.” He’s right. And even in California, it’s possible to find honest wine. One label Bonné recommends is Broadside, a value-priced side project from two admired upand-coming vintners. Another is Foxglove, a value-priced offering from the brothers behind Varner and Neely, two highly acclaimed labels. He also suggests Lioco Wines. Lioco’s “Indica,” a red blend based on old-vine Carignane, is a delightful wine that’s reminiscent of both Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhone. Bonné expects more valuepriced offerings in the years ahead. “There is absolutely a mandate for newer winemakers in California to take their talent and apply it to less expensive wine,” he insisted. And he’s optimistic about the future. “People who are willing to pay a premium for whatever it is -- say tomato sauce made by a small company rather than Ragu -are going to need to extend those values into wine.” In time, they will. David White is the founder and editor of Terroirist.com, which was named “Best Overall Wine Blog” at the 2013 Wine Blog Awards. His columns are housed at Grape Collective.
PONOKA NEWS 25
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Hedging Growth Risk Not to beat a dead horse, but the movement of oats via rail is currently limited by oil tankers on the tracks. As such, this has really ignited the debate for the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline that would send oil from Hardisty, AB to Steele City, Nebraska and potentially open up the railroads again for grain movement. After receiving some serious negative publicity for months, it looks like C.P. and C.N. railroads are going to start stepping their game up and start providing more grain railcars on a weekly basis (up to 5,500 cars a week for C.N.). Federal Ag Minister Gerry Ritz said he’d ideally like 13,000 more cars per week (which is actually more than 2.5 times the current 5,000 cars or so that C.P. and C.N. provide combined). Ritz continued to say that it’s not the railroads’ role to make arbitrary decisions like whether or not railcars will be going into the U.S.. Further, Ritz also mentioned that the government is looking at grain companies paying farmers compensation if they do not take delivery within a reasonable amount of time (which would,
intuitively, force the grain companies to put more pressure on the railroads). The reality is, some change will be needed in order to help facilitate growth of Western Canadian agriculture. Heading to the Oriental, new data coming out of China suggests that beef consumption is on the rise in the People’s Republic. While pork is still the number one go-to on the protein side of the menu (56.3 million tonnes estimated to be consumed in 2013/14!) beef consumption is seen growing 5.1 per cent year-over-year to a record 6.26M tonnes this year! While the Chinese eat more than half of the world’s pigmeat production, they fall 3rd behind Brazil and America’s level of demand for beef. Canada’s beef exports to China rose six-fold year-over-year this
year but Australia still is the number one supplier. China’s increase in beef consumption will also have an effect on feed as cattle require about 50 per cent more feed per kilo of weight grain than a pig would. Thus, we would expect the demand for feed grains in China to also increase further. Back to the Old World, Macquarie is forecasting a pullback in the growth of the Ukrainian agriculture industry due to the increasing geopolitical risk the country is facing. Most importantly (in my opinion), Macquarie says “the access to loans for the Ukrainian agri sector will be tougher as the squeeze in the financial market in Ukraine makes loans more expensive.” Undermining this expectation is the fact that the bank expects grain production
Correction: Subway Fresh Try our
In our last week’s edition, Lacombe Ponoka MLA Rod was erroneously referred to as an MP in our story on page 19. We regret the inconvenience this may have caused.
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Farm Lead in the former Soviet nation to fall nearly 16 per cent to 44.5 million tonnes in 2014/15 (51.4 million tonnes produced in 2013/14). When you try to grow your business (farm or otherwise), you can either funnel profits back into said business or leverage assets by taking on financing. When both of these options become limited, it will intuitively stall the growth that one was hoping for. That being said though, growth has many
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 (1-855332-7653).
2014 PONOKA
AGRICULTURE SUPPLEMENT MARCH 19, 2014 This supplement features the latest in: Farming • Livestock Technology • Seed & Feed Crops • Equipment
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forms and bottom-line growth is only one of them. New growth in agronomic practices and/or other farm strategies (i.e. marketing) can be established. That’s why, I’m optimistic that there’s always areas to improve one’s operations. To growth, Brennan Turner President, FarmLead.com
Canada’s beef exports to China rose six-fold year-over-year this year but Australia still is the number one supplier.
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26 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
FCSS contract loss means cuts across community BY AMELIA NAISMITH
No to bullying - Grade 1 students at the Ponoka Elementary School responded in force to the appeal to wear pink on Wednesday, Feb. 26 to declare their rejection of bullying and bullies.
Interagency group rejuvenated BY MUSTAFA ERIC
Representatives of several community organizations, joined by RCMP and the Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce, have agreed to revive the “interagency group” to coordinate community development and support activities at a meeting at the Ponoka Youth Center on Tuesday, Feb. 25. Participants at the meeting, moderated by Shannon Boyce-Campbell of Ponoka FCSS, agreed that there was much room to enhance cooperation, in particular with the expansion of the membership of the interagency group, including by attracting the interest of the school administrations
in the area. Several options were discussed into ways of broadening the appeal of the interagency group from using the currently functioning websites of the participating and relevant organizations to generating e mail lists to increase awareness on the group. At the end of the hour-long meeting, it was decided that the organizational lead would remain with the FCSS and Ponoka Youth centre would continue to be the venue for the meetings, which will be held on the fourth Tuesday of every other month. The next meeting of the group is scheduled for 9.30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 29.
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Unease has been swirling through the community as concern over whether Ponoka FCSS’s home care contract will be renewed next year or if the right to deliver those services will be granted to a larger, for-profit organization. If FCSS lost the contract, many other organizations within the community besides FCSS would be heavily impacted. Because of the money that comes with the contract, FCSS has been privileged with a surplus that it delights in giving back to the community. Linkages St. Augustine’s Linkages program and the Ponoka Youth Centre (PYC)/Big Brother Big Sisters are two programs that would be negatively impacted if they no longer received funds from FCSS. Linkages is a Grade 8 program that strives to bridge generation gaps and teach empathy to the students via two of the community’s senior lodges, Rimoka and Sunrise Village. “In the past FCSS has helped pay for busing for the Linkages program,” said program organizer Tara Newton. This year, because of the school’s small Grade 8 population, they didn’t need the transportation funds and a school bus was sufficient. However, Newton says those small numbers and that option is rare; next year a larger number of students will be moving into Grade 8. “That (transportation fund) will impact whether or not we do Linkages next year,” said Newton. “I wouldn’t even know where to look for funding because the mandate of the program works beautifully with the mandate of FCSS . . . To work with the com-
munity, both seniors and youth,” she added. Newton says if the program loses its funding in a year, it cannot be fully self-sufficient and the opportunity to teach the students empathy will be missed. The students and the seniors involved will also miss the program. “This is one of the best programs I’ve ever seen. To see those students interact with those seniors,” said Sylvia Brendel, the program’s accompanying teacher. When Brendel learned of Alberta Health Service’s decision to possibly reward the contract elsewhere, her reaction was visible, she was shocked. “I’m going to write them myself because that’s disgusting.” Along with teaching students empathy at a critical time in their lives, a time Brendel feels “they need to get outside themselves”, it also provides simple social interaction for both groups. “Lots of kids don’t have their grandparents close by so it’s that connection to another generation.” Ponoka Youth Centre PYC and Big Brother Big Sister, which are run under the same umbrella, would be out of 20 per cent of their individual budgets if they were to lose the FCSS funding. “We know that 20 per cent would have to be made up in the community and that’s not feasible to even hope for,” said PYC executive director Beth Reitz. The PYC receives $40,000 and Big Brother Big Sisters is given $25,000 from FCSS. Reitz says with the loss of sustainable funding programs, staff positions would have to be cut. She also feels FCSS and their generosity is largely responsible for the success of both programs.
continued on page 27
LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR WORK. The Government of Alberta invites your input on the Employment Standards Code, the basic rules for employers and employees. We are looking at things like: · · · · ·
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Please tell us what you think: · Use our online Discussion Guide and Survey at work.alberta.ca/esreview · Email your comments to jstl.review@gov.ab.ca · Or call 1-877-427-3731 to order a paper copy of the Discussion Guide and Survey
Deadline for feedback is April 11, 2014.
PONOKA NEWS 27
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Thousands raised for Big Brothers ... loss means cuts
continued from page 26 The funds from FCSS is important to the programs because it’s one of few monetary resources that can be used for administration costs, and because it goes to administration, losing it would have an effect on the 18 programs offered by PYC and Big Brothers Big Sisters. “It’s funding that’s very hard for us to find anywhere else,” said Reitz. The versatile money is able to go to capital expenses, training expanses for staff; involving behavioral management and mental health for youth, volunteer development, summer programming, and administration costs related to out of school programming. A concerned Reitz says a fund development committee has been established to look at alternative funding sources. Reitz also feels this situation has been a wake-up call for the organization. “We’ve realized we have to diversify some of our income. We have to think bigger.” “But we’re by no means hopeless. It’ll all work out in the end,” she added.
BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
Another local fundraising record has been broken at the Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) Bowl-a-thon. More than $22,000 was collected at the fundraiser held at Leisure Lanes Feb. 28, slightly more than last year’s $19,000, according to program director Morgen Chernick. Forty teams, comprised of local small clubs and local businesses, had a fun night of bowling and providing pledges to the BBBS organization and everyone appeared proud of the non-profit mentor program. Irene Baliant, who came as part of the Ponoka Lions Club, enjoyed supporting a local organization. “It’s very important for the community.” Also the Golden Age Bowlers were in full swing; Shirley Gill is a member who feels BBBS is worth supporting and her husband, Doug Gill said he enjoys “the fun and the camaraderie” of the night. The importance of BBBS seems to be showing and business support was strong as well. Chernick said they had 19 companies that supported the fundraiser financially and more than 50 businesses provided prizes and donations. Little sister speaks on being mentored Keisha Little is a 16-year-old little sister, who, for the last three years, has been able to see the benefits of the BBBS mentoring program. “When you’re down, they (mentors) make you happy.” She also enjoys being able to meet new people because of BBBS. Little was bowling with a friend who is a Big Sister to a girl in Grade 3. Jayde Baumgartner has been mentoring for just one year but has already seen vast improvements in her charge. “It’s been really rewarding.” The girl she met with was quite shy at first, but has now started to “come out of her shell.” Prizes were given to teams that collected the most pledges, had the most money raised online and even the teams with the best dressed costumes won awards.
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Keisha Little and Jayde Baumgartner have some fun at the BBBS Bowl-a-thon Feb. 28. The fundraiser earned more than $22,000.
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Alberta Tourism, Parks & Recreation East Central Region Suite 700, Millenium Centre, 4909 – 49 Street Red Deer, Alberta T4N 1V1 Fax: 403-754-6243 E-mail: Colleen.O’Neill@gov.ab.ca We thank all applicants for their interest. Only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted. To inquire about more job opportunities with Parks please go to www.albertaparks.ca.
28 PONOKA NEWS
Sports
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Score - Noah Hackett of Ponoka Peewee
A Stampeders scores his first of five goals, his team’s second, early in the first period against Red Deer iHotel on Saturday, March 1.
Ponoka has a Zone 4 Champion BY PONOKA NEWS STAFF
The Midget A Wolves are in the next round of playoffs after beating Stettler in the series last weekend while Peewee A Stampeders won the Zone 4 championship.. Wolves’ first home game was March 1 when they won 5-1. Dustin Bell scored all five goals against the Stettler Legion, securing the first win of the series. The second game was March 2 in Stettler and the Wolves dominated again with a score of 7-4. Tyson Borg scored the first goal. Then Pritchard scored followed by Jared Davis, Riley Workman and Colton Somerville. Bell again made it to the book with two goals. The Midget B team is tied in the series against Red Deer Baker Hughes. Ponoka won the first game 5-3 at home Feb. 27. Scorers were Logan Abrassart, Justin Hall, Avery King, Jarrett Henderson with Shawn Wilton scoring twice. The second game in Red Deer was a different story. The Midget B team lost 6-3 with Pierre Clemmer, Shaw Wilton and Jarrett Henderson each scoring one. They were to play the third game March 3 at home. Atom teams The Ponoka A Atom players beat the Eckville Eagles in both games of the playoff series. The first was at home March 1 where Ponoka trounced Eckville 10-1. Lead scorers for Ponoka were Maison Senft (3), Kael Street (3), Levi Busat (2), Adam Hoag and Joshua David both scored one. The second game was in Eckville with Ponoka defeat-
Midget A advances in playoffs ing Eckville 8-2. Scorers were Joshua David (4), Kael Street (2), Gavin Allen-Prefontaine and Levi Busat with one each. Peewee team Pewee A Stampeders are 2013 Zone 4 champions after they defeated Red Deer iHotel 14-4 on Saturday, March 1. They won the first game of the series 10-4 on Saturday, Feb. 22 in Red Deer. The scorers for the local boys were Noah Hackett (5), Jayden Nokohoo (2), Emett Norn (2), Rylan Lefebvre, Luke Bonnett, Reagan Rabbit, Owen Feragen and Jared Bussiere. For league playoffs the Peewee A team also won their first game March 2 with a 5-4 win in a best of three against the Bentley Bruins. Top scorers were Aidan Gratton, (2), Noah Hackett (2) and Rylan Lefebvre with one. Bantam team Bantam Stampeders lost to Rimbey Renegades 5-2 and missed the chance to become Zone 4 Champions on Saturday, March 1. Cyrus Thompson scored both goals for Ponoka Bantam team. In their first game last week on Tuesday, Feb. 25, they tied 3-3 with the Renegades in Rimbey.
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Despite their loss of zone championship, Ponoka Bantam Stampeders advanced in the playoffs after beating Castor Cyclones 3-1 and 3-0 in the best of three series last week. The first win was an away game Feb. 27 with a win of 3-0. Cyrus Thompson, Noah Spelrum and Cooper Jones scored. The home game was Feb. 28 and Ponoka won again 3-1. Cooper Jones, Joshua Vold and Noah Spelrum each scored a goal. Lacoka girls The Lacoka Atom girls lost to the Maskwacis Atom girls over points in the series. The first game was an away game March 1 when Lacoka defeated their opponents 4-2. Leading scorers were Chloe Wilton (2), Camryn Willier and Kate Hollingsworth. The second game was at home March 2 and the Lacoka girls lost 6-3. Leading scorers were Camryn Willier (2) and Chloe Wilton. The Lacoka Bantam girls lost their first away game March 2 by 5-2 in the series against Endmoor Bantam Female team. Cassandra Hall scored the two goals for the Lacoka team. Their next game is March 5 in Ponoka. The Lacoka Midget Female Rockets had better luck in their first game against the Tofield Titans March 2. The Lacoka girls played in Lacombe and defeated Tofield 5-1. Danica Polson earned a hat-trick and Jayde Rehbein and Amanda Burt each scored one goal.
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PONOKA NEWS 29
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Broncs boys end regular season with emphatic win BY MUSTAFA ERIC
There were emotional scenes at the Christian School Gym on Tuesday, Feb. 25, when PSC Senior Broncs basketball teams hosted Lindsay Thurber Raiders of Red Deer for the last home game of the regular season. Senior boys’ coach Blaine Haines paid tribute to the graduating senior players Jared Nicolls, Davis Labrie, Brandt Seibel and Ethan Minde and two managers of the team Allie Bolton and Lindsay Wass before the beginning of the senior boys’ game. With a trembling voice, coach Haines told the spectators how each of the players had grown from boys to young men and how they had built bonds of affection, respect and solidarity through the years with the team, wishing them well in their
endeavours. Then came the game, which turned out to be a worthy demonstration of the confidence placed in the boys by their coach. In the first few minutes of the first period, both teams tried to impose their game plan to the opposition but it was the Broncs who gained the upper hand with a 9-0 run in the last few minutes of the period, ending it 21-13. The second period saw a vivid defensive effort by the visiting Raiders choking the Broncs offense. By the 8th minute of the second period, the Raiders had tied the game 28-28, forcing coach Blaines to call a time-out, which helped PSC boys to quickly regroup and reestablish a 4-point lead, ending the first half at 32-28. Broncs continued to keep sticking to coach’s instructions in the third period and, despite a few avoidable turnovers, with the help of two steals and three 3-pointers by Jared Nicolls, quickly opened up the lead to double digits and kept it that way, ending the third period at 58-47. The last period saw the visiting Raiders fall further behind as the Broncs increased their production of score with efficient ball movement and strong rebounding on both sides of the court. When the final buzzer went off, the scoreboard showed a well-deserved 80-61 win for the Ponoka boys. “It turned out to be a great senior farewell,“ said coach Haines after the game. “I am glad the boys were able to pull out a win for our graduating players.” Commenting on the team’s performance, Haines praised his
Tavis Lee rises for lay up against Lindsay Thurber Raiders in the Broncs’ last regular season home game on Tuesday, Feb. 25. Photo by Mustafa Eric
Come wind down the curling season!
PONOKA OPEN BONSPIEL MARCH 21 & 22 $
200 entry/team Registration Deadline Friday March 14 Call Laurie 403-783-6769 or Ron 403-783-6314
players for their consistency “which is huge this time of year as we move into playoff time.” In the game between senior Broncs girls and Raiders played before the boys’ game, the visitors established an early lead and opened it up throughout the game to finish it at 83-40. Although the PSC senior girls appeared to have improved their ball movement and dribbling skills a lot, Raiders proved irrepressible as their perimeter shooting and rebounding skills left little room for Ponoka girls to close the gap on the scoreboard. “I thought the girls played strong
and hard throughout the first half of the game but we just couldn’t deliver what needed to be done throughout the second half,” said Sydni Seibel, girls’ head coach. She sounded optimistic for the next season when her players will have grown from rookies to experienced athletes. “Next year, I will have all returning players and we will be faster and stronger and ready to match up against anyone,” she said. “We may be the “underdog” team, but my girls always show up ready to work hard and put what we have learned to use on the court.”
Kendyll Stretch jumps to take a shot in the second half of the game against Lindsay Thurber Raiders of Red Deer on Tuesday, Feb. 25 at the Christian School gym in Ponoka. Photo by Mustafa Eric
Ponoka Skating Club presents “Oh Canada” Friday, March 7
SOLO SHOWCASE 7 pm
Saturday, March 8
CARNIVAL PERFORMANCES
PONOKA FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION presents
CANADIAN FIRE ARMS SAFETY COURSE
11 am & 3 pm
Sunday, March 23
PONOKA RECREATION AND CULTURE COMPLEX
at 8:30 AM
Advance tickets $5 (available until March 5 at IGA, Altitude Laser Spa and Ponoka Professional Pharmacy)
Ticket prices at the door: Adults $7 Students & Seniors $5 Children (4-12 yrs) $5
Price: $100 For long guns (Rifles & Shotguns) Full Course or Challenge (Your Choice)
To Register Call Beth at 403-783-4608 Red at 403-783-2256
30 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Concentrating: Jamie Sweet looks on as she throws a rock during junior curling zones last weekend. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
Bowlers unite: Ponoka’s bantam boys recently competed in bowling provincials Concentrating: Drew Wessner keeps his eye on the end during junior curling in Sherwood Park and placed fourth. Here Ethan Dillon, Loghan McLeod, coach Todd zones last weekend. The girls team lost in the semi finals and the boys lost in the finals. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye Hvamb, Jayce Budd and Braden Jackson pose after a game. Photo submitted
Semi-Auto-22. A living tribute to the genius of Browning
The Ponoka Curling Club would like to extend a special
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• Receiver - Steel, Takedown design, Polished blued Ànish, Scroll Engraving • Barrel - Polished blued Ànish, Drilled and tapped for scope mount • Action - Autoloading, Bottom ejection, Tubular magazine, Crossbolt safety • Stock - Gloss Ànish American Walnut, Checkered
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Bashaw Sports Centre
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Battle River Insurance Ltd, The Co-operators Classic Granite Works Crawford Agencies Dr Du Toit Don & Steve Pederson Construction
Jones Agencies Ponoka County Ponoka Fertilizer Subway Tim Horton’s United Cycle & Cambridge Bay Curlers
403.783.3311
PONOKA NEWS 31
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Hockey player skilled on the ice & in his studies BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE
One of Ponoka’s young athletes is making headlines in his sport and his schoolwork. Hockey player Nolan Huysmans, 22, received the Western Collegiate Hockey Association’s (WCHA) Offensive Player of the Week honours for making two goals and five assists in two games recently. While being recognized for his efforts on the ice, Huysman’s studies off the ice at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks is putting awards on his resume. A 3.8 cumulative GPA from the spring and fall semester earned him a WCHA Scholar award at about the same time. The Nanooks’ right-wing hockey player started when he was four in Ponoka and hard work has brought him to the highest level of the sport in university and college. Huysmans is in his second year of business administration at the university and reaching the NHL is a possibility in his career. “It’s kind of what I’m hoping for. Obviously it would be a dream.”
“Personally I’m having a pretty good year.” Nolan Huysmans
The Nanooks are sitting right in the middle of their conference and nationally as well, so Huysmans feels the possibility of making it to nationals is a tough challenge. But on a personal level he has already beaten last year’s record. “Personally I’m having a pretty good year,” said Huysmans. This season Huysmans scored seven goals and 13 assists in 29 games, compared to five and five last season, and the season isn’t over. Playoffs start in a few weeks. “It’ll be tough. Each conference does their own playoffs…We need to win playoffs to earn a berth in the national tournament,” explained Huysmans. He is finding a balance of school and hockey to earn him a high GPA but it’s a challenge. The Nanooks practice Monday to Thursday, then they play Friday and Saturday league games, usually on the road. Nolan Huysmans is having a good year in the Western Collegiate This is Huysmans second year with the Na- Hockey League. He recently won two awards for his schoolwork and hockey points. nooks.
Photo by Paul McCarthy
Ponoka
VISITOR’S GUIDE
& BUSINESS DIRCTORY
From the Ponoka Stampede to the beautiful Battle River valley, Ponoka offers many attractions to tourists and visitors. The Ponoka News will be publishing a 2014 Ponoka Visitor’s Guide in May. Presented in ponytabloid format with a full colour glossy cover, the 2014 Ponoka Visitor’s Guide will provide essential information for visitors and tourists who come to our community. With a distribution of 10,000 copies, the 2014 Ponoka Visitor’s Guide will be circulated to visitor information centres throughout Alberta, as well as local hotels, motels, bed & breakfast facilities and retail shops. Take advantage of this excellent opportunity to promote your products and services.
2014 COVERS
INCLUDES FULL COLOUR
Back Cover: Inside Front: Inside Bank:
Cover Deadline: May 2, 2014 at 12 NOON
DISPLAY ADS
Business Card: $100 1 ⁄4 Pg (31⁄4”x5”): $175 1 ⁄2 Pg (63⁄4”x5”): $320 $600 Full Pg (101⁄4”x5”): Cover Deadline: May 2, 2014 at 12 NOON All ads include full colour.
Big jump:
Ivan Perales, of the St. Augustine Kings basketball team, goes for the net during a game against the CACHS Knights Feb. 25. The boys lost 94-55. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye
$1130 $880 $880
PLEASE CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR SPACE: 403-783-3311 • FAX: 403-783-6300
32 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
County REACH OVER 217,000 READERS With one of these great deals! 6 PACK 8 PACK
Obituaries
CLASSIFIEDS CALL TOLL FREE:
ADPACK ALL IN 1
Coming Events
Celebrations
NORRIS BRAGG With sadness we announce the passing of Norris Joseph Bragg on February 26, 2014 at the Ponoka Hospital. Norris was born Aug 24, 1925 and grew up in the Elkhorn area. He worked throughout Alberta as a grain buyer for the Alberta Wheat Pool from 1950-1984. Left to cherish his memory are his wife Frieda, daughter Wanda (Arlo) Beck, son Bill (Maureen), step-son David (Karen) Lawrence, 7 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Norris was predeceased by his 1st wife Elsie; 5 brothers, 2 sisters and step-daughter Marie Dickinson. Norris’ family would like to thank the staff at the Red Deer Hospital and Ponoka Hospital for their wonderful care. Donations can be made in his memory to your local SPCA or the charity of your choice. To express condolences to Norris’ family, please visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements Entrusted To
PONOKA FUNERAL HOME
What’s Happening #50 - # 70
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
Friends and family are invited to celebrate with
Ann Cline for her 80th Birthday Sunday, March 9th 1-4 p.m. in the Slater Place Common Room, 5001 - 54 Ave. No gifts please.
Coming Events
Reached a Milestone?
52
BIG BROTHERS AND BIG SISTERS
Share It! 1.877.223.3311 Mission to
BRAULT, Josephine Anna Phyllis (nee Fink)
Mexico
Bottle Drive Sat, March 8
Peacefully on February 24, 2014 Josephine “Jo� Brault passed away at the age of 83 years.
If you have bottles call or text a message to 403-783-9703 & we will pick them up. Please help us raise funds to build 3 houses during Spring break! Thank you - Carmen, Kristin & Megan
Jo is lovingly remembered by her children; Valerie (Walter) Kostiw of Westlock, Vivian (David) Miller of Keswyck, ON., Randy of Stettler, Reg (Shirley) of Red Deer, Rod of Calgary, as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Jo is also survived by her brothers; Jerry Fink of Ponoka, Mickey Fink of Vancouver; her sister Jean Dyck of Westlock; and her sister-in-law Mary Fink of Red Deer.
Tired of Standing? Find something to sit on in Classifieds
Jo was predeceased by her son Vincent in 1970.
If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to the Red Deer Hospice, 99 Arnot Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta, T4R 3S6. Funeral Services in care of
SERENITY FUNERAL SERVICE
Wetaskiwin. 780 352-5300. Condolences: www.serenity.ca
Coming Events
52
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! ATTENTION:
PCHS HS S
Class of
Interested in organizing our th 40 Class Reunion? Call Debbie @ 403-704-5286 before March 15th
~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~
A celebration of Jo’s life will be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2014 at 01:00 p.m. at the Ponoka Funeral Home, 5115 - 50 Avenue, Ponoka AB.
1-877-223-3311
EDMONTON STAMP CLUB - Stamp Show. March 22 - 23. Saturday 10 - 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 - 4 p.m. New Location. Central Lion’s Centre, 111 Ave. & 113 St. Stamps for sale, exhibits, junior table. Free admission; www. edmontonstampclub.com
59
Meetings
AL-ANON WEEKLY MEETING FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF ALCOHOLICS. Tuesdays 8 p.m. Neighborhood Place 5115 - 49 Ave., Ponoka For more info 403-783-4557
ALATEEN
Weekly meetings Tuesdays @ 8 p.m. Neighborhood Place 5115 49 Ave. Ponoka For more info. 403-783-4557 or 403-783-8371 Celebrate your life with a Classified ANNOUNCEMENT
Class Registrations
Meetings
59
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Monday night meetings at the Anglican Church Ponoka 8:30 p.m. Phone 403-783-0719 for info.
GET YOUR BUSINESS OUT THERE 403.783.3311 ponokanews.com
51
CANADIAN FIREARMS SAFETY COURSE Non-restricted
Saturday, March 15 at 8:30am Ponoka $120 /person QualiďŹ ed & experienced instructors
Course is ½ full! Call Luke 403-741-9898
for course details and to register www.albertaďŹ rearmscourse.com Meetings
59
LEARN THE LATEST about Celiac Disease and a Gluten-Free diet at the Canadian Celiac Association National Conference, May 30 - June 1, 2014, Calgary. Visit the gluten-free market. Everyone welcome. Register at www.calgaryceliac.ca; 403-237-0304.
52 1 th Annual Trade Show & Convention 0DUFK , & , 201
0DU from 8am - 5pm: Convention Proceedings-,QGXVWU\ Initiatives 0DU IURP SP - SP: Trade Show/Technical Sessions 0DU from am - 2pm: Trade ShoZ 7HFKQLFDO 6HVVLRQV 12345 0DU IURP SP SP 7HFKQLFDO %XVLQHVV 6HVVLRQV 0DU from am - pm: Convention Proceedings-Education
Trade Show LV FREE for all to attend.
Over 4 vendors will be exhibiting their newest technologies and wastewater products!
&RDVW 3OD]D +RWHO, &DOJDU\ - 6W 1(
visit www.aowma.com or call 877-489-7471 for more info.
Reached a Milestone?
Share It! 1.877.223.3311
PONOKA NEWS 33
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Oilfield
800
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 Sales & Distributors ..........830 Teachers/Tutors..................840 Trades ................................850 Truckers/Drivers ................860 Business Opportunities......870 Miscellaneous ....................880 Volunteers Wanted ............890 Positions Wanted ..............895 Employment Training ........900 Career Planning ................920
Caregivers/ Aides
710
LIVE in caregiver for elderly parents on farm near Rimbey. Driving req’d. Salary standard live in wages. Angela 403-348-1016 call or text or Sue 403-650-3047
Farm Work
755
PERMANENT F/T POSITION
Available on large grain and cattle operation at Bashaw, AB. Applicant must have knowledge and experience in calving cows, herd health, feeding and pasture rotation. Other duties may include fencing, haying, silaging and harvesting. Class 1 licence an asset. Applicant must be highly motivated and have good communication skills. Competitive salary and accommodation available. For further info contact Dwight at 403-323-2355. Send resume to ddurie@xplornet.com or fax to 780-372-2350. We thank you for your interest; however, only those applicants considered for the position will be contacted.
$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
PRODUCTION TESTING EXPERIENCED SUPERVISORS and TESTERS Day & Night Must have tickets. Top paid wages. Based out of Devon, AB. Email resume to: kathy@dragonsbreathpt.ca LOOKING FOR for Stiff Boom Picker/Crane valid drivers licence w/clean abstract required. possibility of owing percentage of truck. Email resume to pickerservices@gmail.com
Oilfield
800
SYLVAN Lake. Opening for pilot car drivers. Only exp’d need apply. Safety bonus program, top wages and benefits. Email resume tom@roncooilfield.ca or fax. 403-887-4892
HARVEST Operations Corp. is a significant operator in Canada’s energy industry offering exploration, development and production of crude oil and natural gas (Upstream), an oil sands project under construction and development in northern Alberta and refining and marketing distillate, gasoline and fuel oil (Downstream) operations. Harvest is offering a challenging opportunity for a
Measurement Coordinator
(Measurement Specialist / Supervisor) that is open to a long term commitment. The position could be located in any of our Harvest site locations in Alberta. We offer a competitive compensation package. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply on-line: www.harvestenergy.ca Buying or Selling your home? Check out Homes for Sale in Classifieds
Oilfield Maintenance Labourer /Swamper Must have safety tickets. No experience necessary. Will train. Fax resume to 403-746-5131 or email smittysoilfield@gmail.com
Oilfield
800
Sylvan Lake. Openings for drivers for winch tractor and swampers. Safety bonus program, top wages and benefits. Email resume tom@roncooilfield.ca or fax. 403-887-4892
ZUBAR Production Services
is currently taking resumes for experienced Production Testing Personnel Email resume to: rdzubaroffice@telus.net or fax to (403)346-9420. Must have all valid tickets.
Professionals
720
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.
Sales & Distributors
830
LANDSCAPING SALES & Service opportunities! Up to $400 cash daily! Full-time & part-time outdoors. Spring/summer work. Seeking honest, hard-working staff; www. PropertyStarsJobs.com.
720
info@canscribe.com 1.800.466.1535 www.canscribe.com
850
for rapidly growing, fast paced manufacturing company in Wetaskiwin. 5 years minimum experience in Full cycle accounting required. This is a full time position. Excellent Benefit Package. Please e-mail resume in confidence to:
kathy@acdandy.com or fax (780) 352-2249
Clerical
720
Jones Agencies
Truck / Trailer Mechanic Night Shift working 4 - 10 hr shifts.
Come be a part of the nations most visible and safest fleet in Canada. Home Hardware, a part of Canada for over 40 years and now with over 1,000 stores across Canada. We offer long term secure employment with competitive wages, bonuses, medical and dental coverage, and a company pension. If you are interested in becoming part of the great team at Home Hardware, drop off an application to 6410 - 36 Street or email resume to: hrwetaskiwin@homehardware.ca
Rimbey Implements Ltd.
Al York
General Manager Cell: (403) 783-0593 Bus: (403) 843-3700
Rimbey, AB
Fax: (403) 843-3430
ANIMAL SERVICES
is looking to hire a part time
Office Personnel Duties include: • Customer Service • Clerical Duties • Computer input Experience & Requirements • Licensed Agent would be ideal, but willing to train the right individual (will need to write Provincial Exams). • Ability to work in a team environment • Strong customer service skills • Flexible on days of work Fax resume to 403-783-8666 E-mail: jonesagencies@gmail.com or drop off to: 5012 - 50 Ave., Ponoka Hair Stylists
760
SKIDSTEER SERVICES
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
Our Wetaskiwin Distribution Centre currently has the following opportunity...
requires a
PART TIME STYLIST - Experience with clientele preferred - Must be willing to work every other Saturday as well as every other Wednesday until 8 pm
Interested applicants please fax resume to 403-783-8010 Closing date March 17, 2014 Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
hrwetaskiwin@homehardware.ca
AG EQUIPMENT
Required Immediately
810
There is a huge demand for CanScribe Career College Medical Transcription graduates. Enroll today!
Trades
Clerical
Senior Bookkeeper
Work from Home!
SEASONAL F/T POSITION
From April 1 - July 31 available on large grain and cattle operation at Bashaw, AB. Applicant to assist with calving cows, herd health, feeding and pasture rotation. Riding a horse and roping are necessary skills. Applicant must also be highly motivated and have good communication skills. Competitive salary available. For further info contact Dwight at 403-323-2355. Send resume to ddurie@xplornet.com or fax to 780-372-2350. We thank you for your interest; however, only those applicants considered for the position will be contacted.
800
LOOKING FOR
OPERATOR
Clerical
Oilfield
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
This space could be yours for $
30
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311
34 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
BOBCAT SERVICES
Truckers/ Drivers
Sur-B Enterprises Ltd.
860
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
Inland Concrete Ltd Requires
DRIVERS For their Ponoka & Lacombe locations Class 1 or Class 3 required No experience required. Will train suitable candidates.
Please fax resume to: 403-782-3134
OVERHEAD DOORS
850
Trades
Trades
F/T SATELLITE INSTALLERS - Good hours, home every night, $4000-$6000/mo. Contractor must have truck or van. Tools, supplies & ladders required. Training provided, no experience needed. Apply to: satjobs@shaw.ca Something for Everyone Everyday in Classifieds Looking for a place to live? Take a tour through the CLASSIFIEDS
or for more information call Leonard 403-588-2834
880
FUTURE AG INC. your Central Alberta Case IH Agricultural Equipment dealer is looking for a full time,
Apprentice and/or Journeyman Parts Person
Ponoka has immediate openings for
Team Members
This space could be yours for $
FT Weekdays - Weekends - Nights Wages $9.95 - $11.00/hr Apply online at thponoka@shaw.ca fax 403.783.5595 or drop off resume
30
/MAVERICK Supply Ltd.
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311 BOTTLE DEPOT
PONOKA BOTTLE DEPOT
Warehouse Representative
Required for Rimbey OilÂżeld Supply Store Duties to include: Customer Service Heavy Lifting Involved Inventory Control Deliveries (with trailer) Clerical Duties Shipping & Receiving Forklift Operations
Closed Sundays & Holidays We Now Recycle Milk Cartons for Deposit
3, 5520 Hwy 2A (Across from Husky)
403-783-6875 SALES & SERVICE
We offer a competitive pay scale, exemplary benefits package, annual work boot reimbursement, RRSP plan, sick days, monthly bonus and continuous professional training in a positive environment.
Business Opportunities
In Person: 5618 - 44th St., Rimbey (Behind the A&W)
Misc. Help
Trades
PETROFIELD Industries, the Leader in manufacturing Hydrovac trucks, is accepting resumes for the following positions: * General Labourers * Industrial Painters * Sandblasters * Material Handler * Automotive Electrical Technician * Journeyman Welder / Apprentice * 2nd Yr Welder with Aluminum experience
LICENSED AUTOMOTIVE MECHANIC and 3rd or 4th year Apprentice required at business located in beautiful Rocky Mountain House, Alberta. Fax resume to 403-845-3991. Benefits included. MAINTENANCE PERSON Large swine facility requires maintenance person. Someone capable of plumbing, welding, minor electrical & groundskeeping will be given consideration. Exp. in all areas is not necessary, but a general pride of the overall appearance & operation of the facility is mandatory. Excellent wage & benefit plan to the successful candidate. Fax resume with references to 1-855-499-3953 or email rwp@cciwireless.ca
850
Visit our website at: www.tornadotrucks.com for more details. Our Company has an enthusiastic fast paced working environment, with advancement possibilities for the motivated person, and offers an excellent benefit package. fax 403-742-5544 e-mail: hr@petrofield.com Looking for a new pet? Check out Classifieds to find the purrfect pet.
Truckers/ Drivers
860
30
$
PER WEEK
This space could be yours!
403-783-3311
WANTED MOTIVATED ENTREPRENEURS. Learn the water business where you live from a Pro with over 30 years experience in Edmonton. Teach you all the business, unlimited leads to tax deductible equipment. Call 780-421-7776; www.homewatersystems.ca
Misc. Help
Re-opening under new management
WAITRESSES
)RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ FRQWDFW 7586(59 &$1$'$
www.truserv.ca
Please call 403-978-7798 Or apply at 3825 46 Street
(Riverside Motor Inn)
ACADEMIC Express ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING
becomeadealer@truserv.ca
Warehouse Representative
Required for Ponoka OilÀeld Supply Store
Misc. Help
880
Ponoka County Agriculture Services is seeking hardworking and motivated individuals with great people skills to work as County Weed Inspectors (2) or Seasonal Labourer (1). Duties include, but are not limited to: Weed inspections, weed and brush removal, weed control and equipment operation.
NOW HIRING! Nordstrom Dental is excited to announce that we are nearing completion of our new ofďŹ ce in Rimbey, and are seeking friendly, energetic, and dependable team members for the following positions:
RECEPTIONISTS DENTAL ASSISTANTS (RDA II) DENTAL HYGIENISTS JANITORS (AFTER HOURS) Both full time and part time are available for all positions. Please email your resume to Dr. Derek Nordstrom at dereknordstrom@gmail.com
880
CHINA PALACE
870
SEASONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Reaching 6000 households weekly for just
GET FREE VENDING MACHINES. Can earn $100,000. + per year. All cash-retire in just 3 years. Protected territories. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629. Website: www.tcvend.com
Slave Lake, ALBERTA
/MAVERICK Supply Ltd.
Motorcycles & ATV’s
870
HIRING 2
In Person: 6705 - 46 Ave, Ponoka AB
403-783-5185 1-800-662-7135 Fax: 403-783-4635
Business Opportunities
$Q H[LVWLQJ SURÂżWDEOH 758 +DUGZDUH EXVLQHVV LV IRU VDOH LQ 12345
880
Duties to include: Customer Service Heavy Lifting Involved Inventory Control Deliveries (with trailer) Clerical Duties Shipping & Receiving Forklift Operations
860
SIGNING BONUS! Hiring long haul semi owner operators to haul RVs and general freight. Paid 85% of invoiced amount with open invoice policy. Benefits, co fuel cards and subsidized insurance. Must have ability to cross border. Call 1-800-867-6233; www.roadexservices.com.
ATTENTION SEMI OPERATORS! Are you looking to downsize? Haul RVs from USA to Western Canada! Looking for 1 ton and 3 ton O/O. 1-800-867-6233; www.roadexservices.com.
Please Send Resume to: Email: tiona.hurley@wolseley.com Fax: 403-783-2855
Tues - Fri: 8:30 am-5:30 pm Saturday: 9 am-3 pm
Truckers/ Drivers
Be Your Own BOSS Own Your Own Hardware Store
Please Send Resume to: Email: rick.davies@meridianvalve.ca Fax: 403-843-3775
Open Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm
for their Rimbey location. Must be reliable, highly organized and team oriented. Farming background an asset.
Forward your resume to: Future Ag Inc. Attn: Paula Martin Box 140 Rimbey, AB T0C 2J0 Fax: 403-843-2790 Email to: paulam@futureag.ca
GM DEALER REQUIRES 3rd/4th Journeyman Techs. GM/diesel experience an asset. Competitive wages. Full benefits. Email resume to: donheeg2003@yahoo.ca or fax to 780-645-3564. Attention: Don. No phone calls please. Smyl Motors, St. Paul, Alberta. INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR SCHOOL. No Simulators. In-the-seat training. Real world tasks. Weekly start dates. Job board! Funding options. Sign up online! iheschool.com. 1-866-399-3853.
ATTN: Leonard
Misc. Help
850
Knowledge of weed identiďŹ cation and management is an asset. If you have a current and valid Pesticide Applicators CertiďŹ cate (Agriculture/Industrial/Landscape) you may be eligible for a wage bonus. Applicants must have a valid class ďŹ ve driver’s license and be able to provide a drivers abstract upon request. Applicant must be able to work in a physically strenuous environment. The starting wage is $15.00/hour and may be negotiable depending on experience, qualiďŹ cations and certiďŹ cations. The work week is typically Monday to Friday, eight hours per day (40 hour work week) with occasional opportunities for overtime. Seasonal employment is available from May 1 until the end of August with the possibility of extended employment. Please forward your resume` and cover letter to: Shayne Steen Manager of Agriculture Services, Ponoka County 4205-Hwy 2A, Ponoka, Alberta T4J-1V9 Or email to: shaynesteen@ponokacounty.com The deadline for the competition is March 14, 2014 at 12:00 noon. For more information contact Shayne Steen at 403-783-1030. Please note that only those applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.
SPRING START •
Community Support Worker Program
•
Women in the Trades Program
•
Math and Science for the Trades Program
•
GED Preparation Gov’t of Alberta Funding may be available. 403-340-1930 www.academicexpress.ca
PUT YOUR EXPERIENCE to work - The job service for people aged 45 and over across Canada. Free for candidates. Register now at: www.thirdquarter.ca or call toll free 1-855-286-0306. REQUIRED Production Welder Painter Shop Laborer Polisher Full or Part Time Crestomere area BANDIT INDUSTRIES 403-783-4284 UP TO $400 cash daily full-time & part-time outdoors. Spring/summer work. Seeking honest, hardworking staff; PropertyStarsJobs.com.
PONOKA NEWS 35
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Misc. Help
880
Misc. Help
880
880
Misc. Help
Employment Training
CALNASH TRUCKING LTD Golden Leisure Lodge
FOOD SERVICES LODGE ATTENDANT Casual positions available POSITION SUMMARY: The Lodge Attendant is responsible to their supervisor to ensure a high standard of dietary services. QUALIFICATIONS: High School Diploma Experience with kitchen/ dining room duties Familiarity with the use of cleaning equipment and chemicals preferred WHMIS training, First Aid and CPR training Food safety course an asset CONTACT: Human Resources • 403-782-4119 (Fax) A current Police Information Check is a pre-employment requirement for new employees to the Rimoka Housing Foundation We sincerely thank all candidates for their application; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted
IN PONOKA requires an immediate
SHOP/PARTS PERSON The responsibilities will include ordering and organizing parts, data entry, record keeping and general shop duties. Reporting directly to the operations manager, the individual will have excellent communication skills, organized and general computer knowledge. Some training will be provided, but must have some general trucking and parts background. Excellent wages and company benefits Please submit applications to: Calnash Trucking 6526 44 Avenue, Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1J8 Fax: 403-783-3011 E-mail: hr@calnashtrucking.com (Attn: Shop/Parts Person) Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No Phone calls please.
Full Time Positions
available immediately • General Labourers
in Ponoka, has immediate openings for
SWAMPERS Please submit resumes to 6526 - 44 Ave., Ponoka, AB T4J 1J8 Fax: 403-783-3011 or Email: hr@calnashtrucking.com
Volunteers Wanted
CANDIDATE MUST:
MAINTENANCE WORKER - Casual The Maintenance Worker is responsible to the Maintenance Coordinator for the provision of a wide variety of maintenance services in Ponoka Quali¿cations: High School diploma Related training & experience Valid Driver’s License Competition Closing Date: Until Suitable Candidate Found Please direct applications to: Human Resources Rimoka Housing Foundation 5512-57Ave., Ponoka, AB T4J 1V7 Fax: 403 782-4119 A current Police Information Check is a pre-employment requirement for new employees to the Rimoka Housing Foundation We sincerely thank all candidates for their application; however only those selected for interview will be contacted
MAINTENANCE WORKER Temporary Full-time (up to 40 hours/week) Anticipated term from May 1/2014 to August 30/2014 The Maintenance Worker is responsible to the Maintenance Coordinator for the provision of a wide variety of maintenance services at sites located in Ponoka and Rimbey providing grounds maintenance which include lawn care (push mower and/or riding mower), trimming, edging, flower care, etc. Must be willing to travel to Ponoka and Rimbey as needed. (Mileage will be paid when required to travel) Qualifications: High School diploma Experience related to the position assignment Valid Driver’s License Competition Closing Date: Until Suitable Candidate Found Please direct applications to: Human Resources, Rimoka Housing Foundation 5512-57Ave., Ponoka, AB T4J 1V7 Fax: 403 782-4119 A current Police Information Check is a pre-employment requirement for new employees to the Rimoka Housing Foundation We sincerely thank all candidates for their application; however only those selected for interview will be contacted
Manufacturers of Annugas Production Enhancer Fax resume to main office (780) 361-2355 3601 - 48 St., Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 3N9 Ph: 1-866-266-8427 or (780) 361-2350 Only candidates selected will be contacted for interview.
890 Ponoka Rising Sun Clubhouse Society
(Willing to work away from home) Reliable/Self motivated Clean drivers abstract preferred Oilfield tickets are required but training could be supplied Must pass drug test before employment Pipe fitting experience a real asset Will train the right individuals
is requiring a volunteer to serve on the Board of Directors. Meetings are once a month breaking for the summer. If interested please stop by the clubhouse at 5216 - 50 St. for an application and ask for Amanda The right place to find the right person for the job.
DANDY PERMANENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Electrical Enclosure & Power Division
• SENIOR BOOKKEEPER • PART TIME TRUCK DRIVER • FINISHER • PANEL SHOP ELECTRICIAN Full Benefit Package & Production Bonuses. Safe, Warm, Modern Working Environment.
403.783.3311
Email: acdandy@acdandy.com
1.877.223.3311
Contractors
1100
ATTENTION HOME BUILDERS! No Warranty = No Building Permit. Contact Blanket Home Warranty for details. 1-888-925-2653; www.blanketltd.ca.
Computer Services
1110
FOR ALL OF YOUR PC HARDWARE & SOFTWARE PROBLEMS CALL
403-913-5868
Legal Services
1260
CRIMINAL RECORD? Get a record suspension pardon for career, travel and peace of mind. BBB Rating A+. RCMP connected. Nation-Wide; www.nationalpardon.org or toll free 1-866-242-2411. CRIMINAL RECORD? Think: Canadian pardon. U.S. travel waiver. (24 hour record check). Divorce? Simple. Fast. Inexpensive. Debt recovery? Alberta collection to $25,000. Calgary 403-228-1300 or 1-800-347-2540; www. accesslegalresearch.com
1290
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.
Employment Training
900 Coming Soon
Reached a Milestone? Celebrate it! Cherish it! Share it!
Business Services #1000 - #1430
Misc. Services
Fax or E-mail your resume in confidence to: A.C. Dandy Products Ltd. Fax: 780-352-2249
900
START NOW! Complete Ministry approved diplomas in months! Business, health care and more! Contact Academy of Learning College 1-855-354-JOBS (5627) or www.academyoflearning.com We change lives.
12345
Careers Online Call for more details 1-800-282-6903 ext 235
36 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
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
Misc. Services
1290
Misc. Services
1290
Misc. Services
New Appliances Needed?
1290
NEW BABY
New, dependable, affordable Inglis & Whirlpool household appliances.
At Your House?
Refrigeration
It’s time to call your Welcome Wagon hostess. She will bring congratulations and gifts for the family and the NEW BABY!
and Appliance Service We deliver & install your purchases.
403-783-4880 1410
Welding
1410 Heather Goodwin 403-704-3647 heathermccg@shaw.ca
Drs. Heimdahl, ZoBell & Kallal 403-783-5575 1-800-662-7168 WWW.4YOUREYESONLY.CA
•
Personal Services
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
• B-PRESSURE • PIPELINE • OILFIELD • ASME Section VIII Division I VESSEL FABRICATION & PIPING • SHOP/PORTABLE • CNC PLASMA CUTTING • ALUMINUM • SHEARING & FORMING
This space could be yours for $
MAIN: (403) 783-7591 FAX: (403) 783-8178
30
Website: www.harbinwelding.com E-mail: bharbin@telus.net
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311 HEATING
Misc. Services
1290
Advertise your business in the Business Directory!
1290
Unplanned pregnancy may be difďŹ cult to face. We care. For conďŹ dential help call 403-343-1611 (24 hrs.) 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+).
Misc. Services
1290
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
Ph: 403-782-7722 Fax: 403-782-7499
robin@KlesAir.com www.KlesMechanical.com
Misc. Services
1315
Squeezthee MOST out of your advertising dollars
“Committed to your comfort�
Robin Esau
* 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
www.clinkerskennels.ca
1350
Need RV or Self Storage?
EYE CARE
-
1318
CLINKERS KENNELS
Rental Misc
“WE ENTHUSIASTICALLY WELCOME NEW PATIENTS�
1315
Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x228 email andrea@awna.com or visit this community newspaper
Well Drilling
1400
Well Drilling
1400
Well Drilling
1400
RURAL WATER TREATMENT (Province Wide) Tell them Danny Hooper sent you
)RON &ILTERS s 3OFTENERS s $ISTILLERS s 2EVERSE /SMOSIS h+ONTINUOUS 3HOKv #HLORINATOR 0ATENTED 7HOLE (OUSE 2EVERSE /SMOSIS 3YSTEM
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
HEATING & EAVESTROUGHING
TRUE PSYCHICS! For Answers call now 24/7 Toll Free 1-877-342-3036; Mobile: # 4486; www.truepsychics.ca.
Pet Services
Berni's
Welding
Personal Services
8’ X 10’ mini storage units available for rent. Also RV storage. Secure compound. Call Keith at
First Call Towing
783-3636
Commercial - Residential Installations - Repair
3912 - 66 St, Ponoka www.wcmltd.ca
403.783.3501 wcmltd@telus.net
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 ReproducĆ&#x;ve Programs CETA CerĆ&#x;ÄŽed Dairy and Beef Embryo Transfer Herd Health
Phone 403-391-1684 Dr. Bruce Wine
Í´Íś Š‘—” Â?‡”‰‡Â?…› ƒŽŽ
Buy & Sell #1500 - #1990 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
Auctions
This space could be yours for $
30
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311 VETERINARY SERVICES
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
1530 $30 per week
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
this space could be yours!
403-783-3311
PONOKA NEWS 37
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
1530
Auctions
BIG STRAPPER AUCTIONS SALES EVERY WED. @ 6 pm. Moose Hall 2 miles south of Ponoka on 2A NEXT ANTIQUE SALE Sun. MARCH 2, 1 pm
Building Supplies
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
1640
WE BUY FOR CASH. 403-304-4791 Check website for full listing www.bigstrapperauctions.net
Collectible, Antique, Coin & Misc. Auction Sunday March 9, 10 a.m. BOWDEN LIONS HALL Bowden A.B. Silver coins, Coin sets, Signed Carvings, Vintage cameras & radios, Type 547 Oscilloscope, Art, Prints, Glassware, Lighters, Disney & Betty Boop & Coca cola collectibles, Furniture, Household items, Lots of unique collectibles…Just too much to mention.. Check web for listing & pictures. Sale is subject to additions & deletions.. 5 % admin fee applies.. Lunch available. See U all out at the sale Pilgrim Auction 403-556-5531 www.auctionsales.ca
1550
Tools
EARN 100% plus on our new product. 11 piece combination metric/standard wrench set below cost to interested buyers. By email: rgtkachuk@shaw.ca.
Firewood
1660
LOGS
Semi loads of pine, spruce, tamarack, poplar. Price depends on location. Lil Mule Logging 403-318-4346
Misc. for Sale
1760
MEIER GUN AUCTION. Saturday, March 8, 11 a.m., 6016 - 72A Ave., Edmonton. Over 150 guns Handguns, rifles, shotguns, hunting and sporting equipment. To consign call 780-440-1860
1550
You can sell your guitar for a song... or put it in CLASSIFIEDS and we’ll sell it for you!
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.
Livestock
SAWMILLS from only $4,897. Make money & save money with your own bandmill. Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & dvd: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/ 400OT. 1-800-566-6899 ext. 400OT.
2100
LLB Angus 28TH ANNUAL
BULL & FEMALE SALE MARCH 10, 15,2012 2014 MARCH at the farm, Erskine, AB
Offering over 600 head of Quality Angus Cattle Canada’s Largest Angus Production Sale
250 Black Angus, Red Angus & Black Semmie Bulls 150yearling yearlingbulls bulls t 150 year old bulls t 100two two-year-old bulls fall born yearling bullsheifers 350 black & bwf replacement 120 yearling heifers t 100 purebred yearling heifers commercial heifers t 50 commercial bred black & bwf heifers t 200 commercial black & bwf yearling heifers
Livestock
2100
PUREBRED red and black Angus bulls. 1 and 2 year olds. Semen tested and delivered. Vicwin farms 403-784-3517, 403-318-7363.
2130
Teeny Tiny Morkies extra fluffy and extremely cute! Poultry Non shedding, shots done 587-987-3422 or email: ORDER NOW For Pick Up wendyschedel@gmail.com on April 19, 25 or 26. 19 weeks old Isa Brown laying hens. Travel Linden, AB 403-546-3130
Packages
1900
GRIZZLY BEAR TOUR. Experience a one day fly and cruise adventure to Khutzeymateen, BC this summer. Calgary and Edmonton departures. 1-866-460-1415; www. classiccanadiantours.com TOO MUCH STUFF? Let Classifieds help you sell it.
Classifieds Your place to SELL Your place to BUY
EVERY WATER WELL on earth should have the patented “Kontinuous Shok” Chlorinator from Big Iron Drilling! Why? Save thousands of lives every year. www.1-800bigiron.com. Phone 1-800-BIG-IRON.
Building Supplies
1840
Dogs
Agricultural #2000 - #2290 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
Farm Custom Work
2080
ATTENTION FARMERS Custom Rototilling 403-704-2299 Call until 11 p.m.
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
LEE & LAURA BROWN
BAR-DALE LIMOUSIN, ERSKINE, AB. 40, two year old virgin bulls for sale at the farm. Fully guaranteed. Call Carole Barclay at 403-742-4825, Terry 403-740-5037 Ricky 403-740-5711. email bardale@xplornet.com
Box 217, Erskine, Alberta T0C 1G0 Phone: 403-742-4226 Fax: 403-742-2962 llbangus@xplornet.com catalogue online www.llbangus.com
FLATLAND RANCH has on offer yearling and 2 year old Gelbvieh Bulls. We have been selling reputable bulls for 15 years Chuck 403-854-6270
CELEBRATIONS HAPPEN EVERY DAY IN CLASSIFIEDS
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. 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 Start your career! See Help Wanted
For Rent #3000 - #3200 Houses/ Duplexes
3020
4 Plexes/ 6 Plexes
AVAIL. Apr.1 in Ponoka 2 bdrm. spacious downstairs suite in 4 plex. 4 appls., N/S, NO PETS, $675 rent & d.d., Call 403-704-1706 Vicki or Mel
Suites
PLUMBING
3050
3060
IN PONOKA
AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY 1 BEDROOM BSMT SUITE 4 appliances & 4 pc. bath. Open concept. Own laundry room. Separate entrance, fenced yard,parking at rear.
$675/month plus $675 D.D.
Includes gas, water & sewer
Real Estate #4000 - #4190
SHANDALL PLUMBING LTD. JAMES AVERY
4040
“Reasonable rates on all your plumbing needs” Gas Fitting - Home Renovations - Drain Cleaning -24 HOUR SERVICE-
EXCLUSIVE LUXURY RIVERFRONT CONDOS FOR SALE in Downtown Red Deer. Call Renee at 403-314-1687 for Inquiries.
5306 - 60 ST, PONOKA, AB T4J 1K7 PH: (403) 783-6372 • FAX (403) 783-6345
Condos/ Townhouses
Acreages
4050 PONOKA PLUMBING & HEATING
4 BEDROOM HOME. 1600 sq. ft. w/1.5 bathroom and a full basement on 11 acres of clear flat land. Located 1 mi. from the centre of Chilliwack B.C. In the Beautiful Fraser Valley 60 miles East of Vancouver.† $889,000. Ph. 1-604-793-0171
Farms/ Land
PLUMBING
4070
We now carry a complete line of Ritchie Stockwater parts
JESSE ZINTER Office - 403-783-5489
403-963-5500
This space could be yours for $
No phone calls after 7pm
PONOKA, lrg. 1 bdrm apt. incld’s, laundry & all utils. $750. Avail. end of Feb. no pets, n/s 403-993-3441
30
455 ACRES AGRICULTURAL * RIVERSIDE APTS. * land, 12 mi. E. of Ponoka, Newly renovated
PER WEEK
Call 403-783-3311
1 mi. off pavement, good 1 & 2 bedroom units in surface lease revenue. Ponoka: 3724-45 Street. Inquire with your name 403-357-0287 and address to: Box 1079, c/o Red Deer Advocate, Classifieds...costs so little 2950 Bremner Ave., Saves you so much! Red Deer, Ab T4R 1M9
Houses For Sale
4020
PORTABLE TOILET RENTALS
LittleJONS’ Hand Wash Stations Handicap Units Trailer Units New Solar Powered Units with Running Water
Available April 1st In Ponoka 2 Bdrm duplex w attached garage $1150/month plus DD Plus utilities
403-887-0797
4 bdrm, 3 bath house with attached two car garage Main floor laundry, gas fireplace, fenced backyard Near General Hospital $1650/month $1500 DD plus utilities N/S, N/P Available April 1
403-877-5640 Central Alberta’s Largest Car Lot in Classifieds
PONOKA: Avail. April 1. 6 year old 3 bedroom town home close to schools and shopping. N.S./N.P. $1,050.00/month plus heat and power. $1,050.00 D.D. Call Mary @403-783-6609
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. We change daily to serve you better.
Hours of Business: Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5 pm
5110 -50 Street Box 4414 Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1R7
Serving Central Today! Alberta Book On-Line
403.783.8322
www.littlejons.ca
Reaching 6000 households weekly for just
30
$
PER WEEK
This space could be yours!
403-783-3311 TREE SERVICE
BEST PRICE TREE SERVICE OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
SPECIALIZING IN DANGEROUS TREES COMPLETE REMOVAL & CLEANUP
• Topping • Dropping • Slashing • Stump Grinding & Tree Disposal • Tree Chipping FREE Estimates | Fully Insured
403.396.7623
38 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
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.
OVERSTOCKED! Huge discounts on all SRI 2013 stock. 3 & 4 bedroom plans - 20 X 76. Compare & save! In house mortgage broker, quick financing at lowest rates! Best prices/service guaranteed! Dynamic Modular Homes, Red Deer 1-877-341-4422; www.dynamicmodular.com
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+.
PREOWNED 1856 SQ FT Modular Office for sale. 5 offices, 1.5 bathrooms, kitchen, reception and ample storage space. $120,000. Must be moved. Phone 1-877-504-5005; www.jandelhomes.com.
$
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
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
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. Transportation 142 East Lake Blvd., Airdrie. #5000-5300 1-800-461-7632; www. unitedhomescanada.com. Automotive Services ........5010
CALL 4037833311 ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST
4430
Money To Loan
Financial #4400 - #4430 Investments ......................4410 Money Wanted ................4420 Money to Loan ................4430
Money To Loan
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.
Public Notices
Antique & Classic Autos ....5020 Cars ..................................5030 SUV’s................................5040 Trucks ..............................5050 Heavy Trucks....................5060 Vans/Buses ......................5070 Motorcycles ......................5080 Campers ..........................5090 Motorhomes......................5100 5th Wheels........................5110 Holiday Trailers ................5120 Tent Trailers ......................5130 Utility Trailers ....................5140 ATV’s ................................5150 Boats & Marine ................5160 Snowmobiles ....................5170 Tires, Parts & Accessories ......................5180 Auto Wreckers ..................5190 Vehicles Wanted ..............5200 Car/Truck Rental ..............5210 Recreational Vehicle Rental ..............................5220 Trailer Rental ....................5230 Misc. Automotive ..............5240 RV’s ..................................5300
Antique & Classic Autos
5020
TURN YOUR PASSION for vehicle restoration into a career with Lakeland College’s 8-month Street Rod Technologies program at the Vermilion campus. Attend the program information session March 21. Phone 1-800-661-6490 or visit www.lakelandcollege.ca/srt
Tires, Parts Acces.
5180
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)
Public Notice #6000 Public Notices ..................6010 Special Features ..............6050
YOUR PAPER!
Ponoka Veterinary Clinic
4090
Manufactured Homes
RECYCLE
VETERINARY SERVICES
6010 TOWN OF PONOKA PUBLIC NOTICE AMENDING LAND USE BYLAW NO. 013-97
Ponoka Town Council has received a request to amend Land Use Bylaw No. 013-97 as follows: To reclassify Lot 1, Plan 236RS from Low Density Multi-Family Residential (R2) District to High Density Residential (R4) District.
WATER WELL SERVICE
ECKLUND Water Well Service • Install & Service Pumps • Shock Wells • Pressure Systems Serviced & Installed Home: (403) 783-3712 Cell: (403) 704-3413
CALL LEEN VOGELAAR 403-704-0919
6010
The Montana First Nation is now inviting leasing tenders for the following lands located on Colchester Holdings a division of the Montana First Nation. The bidding for Tenders will close on March 7, 2014. The selections will be made on March 10, 2014. If you are the successful bidder we will contact you after the date stated above. Land Location
Acres
Land Location
Acres
NW 8-43-24-W4
160
SE 18-43-24-W4
68
NW-9-43-24-W4
161
SE 19-43-24-W4
160
NW 16-43-24-W4
161
SW 26-43-24-W4
160
NE 16-43-24-W4
160
NW 26-43-24-W4
160
SE 16-43-24-W4
183
SE 26-43-24-W4
153
SW 16-43-24-W4
176
SW 35-43-24-W4
63
NE 18-43-24-W4
160
For more information contact: Suzanne Life Consultation & Lands Manager 780-585-3744 Ext. 268 suzannelife@montanafirstnation.com Public Notices
6010 PUBLIC NOTICE
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE COUNTY’S LAND USE BYLAW AND MUNICIPAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Bylaw Nos. 1190/14 & 1191/14 Lacombe County Council has given ¿rst reading to Bylaw Nos. 1190/14 and 1191/14 the purpose of which are to amend the general regulations and policies in the in both the County’s Land Use Bylaw and Municipal Development Plan. The amendments are being proposed to provide greater clarity to the regulations and address any issues which have arisen since the adoption of the documents in 2007. Examples of some of these amendments include: • Clari¿cation of the co-location requirements for telecommunication towers; • Inclusion of agricultural businesses as a use in the Business Industrial District; • Clarify that sea containers are restricted in all residential districts except the Agricultural District; • Provide for general regulations in the Sandy Point Direct Control District; • Clarify that only one ATV, dirt bike, boat, jet ski or snowmobile may be stored on a condominium unit in the Recreational Vehicle Resort District; • Allow guest houses in Residential Lake Area District to contain sanitary facilities; and • Provide clarity that the Higher Density Lakeshore Residential District can be used for any future development that provides additional publicly accessible open space. A copy of the Bylaws with the proposed amendments may be obtained from the County’s Planning and Development Department or by visiting the County’s website at www.lacombecounty.com. Anyone wishing to comment on the proposed Bylaw amendments will have an opportunity to do so at a public hearing which has been arranged for: Date: Thursday, March 13, 2014 Time: 9:00 AM Place: Lacombe County Administration Of¿ce located 2½ miles west of Highway 2 at the intersection of Spruceville Road and Highway 12
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Public Notices
Shaded area requesting re-zoning from Low Density Multi-family Residential (R2) District to High Density Residential (R4) District
Anyone being affected or claiming to be affected by this Bylaw may be heard by Council at the Public Hearing scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 11, 2014 in the Town Hall Council Chambers, 5102-48 Ave., Ponoka, Alberta. Information regarding these proposed changes can be received at the Town Office during regular business hours.
If you are unable to attend the hearing, written submissions can be made to the County. You will, however, need to ensure that your comments are received by the County prior to the date of the hearing. Your comments can be sent by email to info@lacombecounty.com, by fax to 403-782-3820 or by mail to RR 3, Lacombe AB T4L 2N3. All submissions will be public information. For more information, please contact the Planning and Development Department. Dale Freitag, RPP, MCIP Manager of Planning Services Lacombe County, RR 3, Lacombe AB T4L 2N3 Phone: 403-782-6601; Fax: 403-782-3820
PONOKA NEWS 39
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Public Notices
6010
Alberta kicking its unfunded pension liabilities Mark Milke TROY MEDIA COLUMNIST
GROUNDS MAINTENANCE CONTRACT Tenders are requested for the provision of lawn, trees, shrubs and flowerbed maintenance services at the Keyera Rimbey Gas Plant for May 1 to October 31, 2014. The contract requires the maintenance of approximately six acres of lawn including regular cutting, raking and fertilizing as well as maintenance of trees, shrubs and flowerbed’s. Detailed specification packages may be obtained at the Rimbey Gas plant or by phoning 403-843-7140. Sealed bids should be submitted to: Keyera Rimbey Gas Plant Box 530 Rimbey, Alberta T0C 2J0 Attention: Tracy McKane Sealed bids clearly marked “BID: LAWN MAINTENANCE CONTRACT” must be received at the Rimbey Gas Plant no later than March 31, 2014. Individual or small contractor bids welcome.
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One theory about politics is that because politicians must get votes to stay in power that’s their “currency” - they are unlikely to act against their own self-interest. So politicians cater to the specific voters who put them in power in the first place. Last year, when Alberta Finance Minister Doug Horner decided to reform government employee pensions, he proved there is an exception to every rule. (It’s not a state secret government unions were rather helpful to the government in the last election.) Thus, Horner’s attempt to reform pensions showed that, on occasion, politicians do act in the longterm interest of the public, even if that means occasionally offending their core supporters. Previously, reforms to government employee pensions were sold by Horner as absolutely critical, something he repeated recently when he backed off more substantial improvements. He even noted that public sector pension plans “are no longer sustainable in their current form.” The minister was and is correct. Defined benefit pension plans, widespread in the government sector, base their future benefits on actuarial projections, which in many plans have turned out to be optimistic. The result to date has been one of two consequences: the direct taxpayer infusions, such as the $1.2 billion top-up in 2009/10 for what’s known as “pre-1992” Alberta Teachers’ Pension Plan (and the government’s assumption of the full unfunded liability in that plan), and hikes in pension plan contribution rates. For instance, increases in Public Service Pension Plan employee/employer contributions took place in 2003, 2007, 2010, and 2012. In defined benefit plans, contribution increases are one option in dealing with
unfunded liabilities. Point is, taxpayers ultimately pay through top-ups to a pension plan or through contribution increases. In Alberta, 1,435,028 Albertans, or about 91 per cent of the 1.6 million private sector workers, did not possess a defined benefit pension plan in 2011. Just 9 per cent of the private sector has such a plan. Most Albertans will do fine by saving for retirement through other pension plans, as well as RRSPs, TFSAs and other savings vehicles. The catch is that specific benefit levels are not guaranteed; everything eventually depends on a combination of contributions and investment returns. However, those private sector workers fund the politically-promised guarantees for the government employee pension plans. There are 278,252 people, or about 79 per cent of 351,500 government/public sector employees in Alberta, enrolled in such defined benefit plans. That exposure is reason enough for the third option, a substantial reform of benefits. As just one example of a possible reform, the government was proposing that those in the public sector wait until age 65 for full pension benefits (up from the current early retirement age of 55). The province retreated and will now let government employees retire at age 60 with a full pension. That flip-flop was unnecessary and unhelpful to taxpayers. Also, Statistics Canada shows that the public sector in Alberta already retires, on average, two years earlier than those in the private sector.
Another example: the minister wrote to government unions to reassure and also to inform them that “pensions will still be calculated according to a formula that is based on the highest average salary.” That’s another status quo policy in crying need of a change. It means government employees will continue to have their retirement benefits calculated based on a plan member’s highest five-year average salary, as opposed to career-average earnings. The latter approach would have moderated benefits; it would also have been fairer to taxpayers. Even the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation, which runs its own pension plan, has moved away from using averages based on late career earnings to calculate pension benefits. Instead, for that union-run plan, as of 2015, eventual pension benefits will be calculated using career-average earnings. The provincial government claims its retreat on reforms does not expose taxpayers to “undue risk and excessive contributions.” Wrong on both counts; taxpayers already pay excessively for government employee pension plans and for artificial guarantees they cannot magically create for themselves. Absent significant reforms on the benefits side, taxpayers are as exposed as your uncovered backside on a chilly winter day. By again kicking the existing unfunded pension liabilities down the road, the province has exposed taxpayers to future risks and more bailouts, obvious or hidden. The government has also demonstrated that the theory about political behaviour - politicians mostly act in their own short-term electoral interest and not in the long-term interest of the public - is regrettably true more often than not. Mark Milke is a Senior Fellow at the Fraser Institute and co-author of Public Sector Pensions: Options for Reform from the Saskatchewan NDP.
Federal Liberals reject the party’s successful pragmatism By Jason Clemens Niels Veldhuis and Milagros Palacios THE FRASER INSTITUTE
403.783.3311
Government acting in its own short-term electoral interest rather than in the long-term interest of the public
Troy Media - The policy direction of the Liberal Party of Canada and its leader Justin Trudeau, as evidenced by the speeches, motions, and debate at the recent national party convention seem to indicate that the party is rejecting the successful pragmatism of the 1990s. Instead, the federal Liberals favour a more interventionist and activist government, much like that of the current Ontario Liberal government. If such policies are enacted, the results would be ruinous for Canada. One of the central themes repeated consistently at the convention was the need for the federal government to incur more debt in order to finance infrastructure and other long-term spending. Trudeau and his policy advisers seem to have been influenced greatly by U.S. economist Larry Summers, who served in the Clinton and Obama administrations and is a vocal advocate for more expansive government spending using debt as a method by which to stimulate the economy. One problem among many for this approach is that it belies history, both in the U.S. and Canada.
Bill Clinton and Jean Chretien enjoyed enormous economic and political success by doing the opposite. U.S. President Barack Obama and the Ontario Liberals have struggled with a weak economy by doing exactly what Trudeau now proposes for the entire country. Beginning in 1995, the Chretien Liberals cut program spending by almost 8 per cent in just two years and continued to constrain spending even after balanced budgets were achieved for the following three years. Federal program spending as a share of the economy declined from over 17.1 per cent in 1992-93 to just under 12 per cent by the end of the decade. Federal debt was reduced from 67.1 per cent in 1995-96 to roughly 30 per cent by the time the Tories took over. And critically, the Liberals enacted a series of tax cuts and reforms aimed at making our economy more efficient and competitive. The results, contrary to Summer’s rhetoric, were stunningly positive. Over the decade spanning 1997 when the federal budget was first balanced to roughly 2007, Canada led the G7 in both economic growth and business investment. Our record on job creation was unparalleled, more than doubling the U.S. rate and higher
than any G7 country. And poverty rates fell by more than 40 per cent. These actual results stand in stark contrast to Summer’s predictions: “To start, this means ending the disastrous trend towards less and less government spending and employment each year and taking advantage of the current period of slack to renew and build out our infrastructure”. Of additional concern is the naiveté that Summers continues to display and has apparently now infected Trudeau with in terms of the actual ability of governments to do the things he advocates. Summers was front and centre in advocating for and shepherding through the Obama stimulus, which contained hundreds of billions of dollars for “shovel-ready” projects. Summers insisted that the mark of success of such policies were that they were timely, temporary, and targeted. The reality of what happened is that, not surprising, politics affected the program. High priority projects were shelved for more politically expedite ones. Projects were delayed and hung up in red tape and bureaucrat infighting. The assumption that government can simply flick a switch and spend efficiently is both conceptually and historically false. Summers can be forgiven for not being aware of the actual expe-
rience in Ontario. The same cannot be said of Trudeau. The large and continuing deficits in Ontario, despite economic growth and coupled with heavy-handed interventionism in a host of sectors, has placed Ontario on a path of decay, not prosperity. Economic growth in the province has remained sluggish despite large-scale deficits and debt accumulation. (As a measure of the province’s problems, Ontario is markedly worse on every measure of indebtedness compared to California). It’s not at all clear how the country will benefit from Ontariostyle policy when such policies have been an abject failure. The country would benefit from a return to the sound policies of the Chretien era in the 1990s - balanced budgets, reducing debt, decentralization of responsibility and authority for services to the provinces, better value-for-money focused spending by the federal government, and incentive-based tax relief and reform. That’s a recipe for success for any government, or government in waiting. The Trudeau Liberals should look back to this period rather than down south for their policy ideas. Jason Clemens, Niels Veldhuis, and Milagros Palacios are economists with the Fraser Institute.
40 PONOKA NEWS
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
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