Ponoka News, December 16, 2015

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY Vol. 67, No. 51 | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015 | 403-783-3311 | WWW.PONOKANEWS.COM

Broncs take bronze in home tournament Story on page 25

The long and colourful history of senior hockey in Ponoka Story on page 5

Outdoor rink open Isaiah Bott (left) and Sam Neath have some shinny hockey fun Sunday, Dec. 13 at the Scott Seaman Outdoor Rink, which is now open for use.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

CONNECT & WIN

CALL OR COME INTO OUR PONOKA LOCATION FOR DETAILS!

FROM

1-877-465-8279

6305 - 44 Avenue, Ponoka

1,000 $ 10,000 $

TO

TOWARDS YOUR PURCHASE OR LEASE

YOU COULD WIN

OR

1 30 OF

VEHICLES!

2 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

Bridge borrowing bylaw clears final hurdle

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS

The borrowing bylaw intended to pay for the

North Bridge and road realignment project was

UTILITIES AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE THE TOWN OF PONOKA IS SEEKING FOUR MEMBERS AT LARGE FOR THE NEW UTILITIES AND ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE. The purpose of this Committee will be to explore various means of revenue generation, examine various funding and business models as they relate to town owned utilities, the natural gas distribution system and waste management.

If you are interested in joining this Committee, please submit a completed application form on or before December 20, 2015 to the Town of Ponoka.

Application forms are available at the Town Hall: 5004 – 54 Street Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1N8 Or on the Town’s website at: www.ponoka.ca

THE PLAYSCHOOLS

THANK YOU

passed by nearly unanimous consent by the town council last week.

The first challenge to the bylaw, a petition against the borrowing, had to be considered before council could vote on it Tuesday, Dec. 8 during the regular meeting.

A petition was filed to the town on Nov. 25 and reviewed by interim CAO Doug Wright, who stated in the council package that it did not meet the sufficient criteria to be acceptable. The petition had 718 signatures, of which 677 had to be valid.

“During the review of the filed petition, names were excluded for invalid or wrong addresses, ineligible names, printed names not matching signature or no witness signature,” states the CAO’s report to council.

The report further states that other names were questionable but “deemed valid in favour of the petition.”

Wright clarified in an

email the requirements for the petition to be considered as valid. Section 223 of the Municipal Government Act states the minimum number of signatures needed is “by electors of the municipality equal in number to at least 10 per cent of the population.”

Of the 718 signatures, 45 were excluded. Wright said the full details were provided to the named representative of the petition and it was up to them to fully disclose the details.

As for the borrowing bylaw, the vote passed 6-1 with Coun. Tim Falkiner voting against second and third reading.

The passing of the bylaw will enable the town to debenture $5 million, of the $5.45 million project, over the next 40 years at an estimated interest rate of 3.7 per cent at $240,826 per year.

Another $100,000 will come out of reserves and $343,000 from grants.

Council asked to approve updated traffic bylaw A proposed traffic bylaw presented to council is expected to clarify rules and regulations within the Town of Ponoka.

Council was presented with the bylaw that made it to second reading, which will reduce redundancies and conflicts within the town’s bylaws.

The proposed bylaw sets guidelines for parking, truck routes, parking of heavy vehicles and overnight parking, dangerous goods as well as snow, ice, dirt and other material left on a sidewalk.

One amendment was made to the removal of snow from a sidewalk as Coun. Marc Yaworski raised concerns about pushing snow off the sidewalk into the street in the downtown area.

His concern was that downtown businesses do not have a place to put the snow. continued on page 19

SPAGHETTI DINNER FUNDRAISER Accu Printing A&W Chicken Farms Ltd. Alberta Chicken Producers APECC Boston Pizza Brian Burby Buist Motors Cake Designs By Jil Candice Campbell Cargill Camrose Cervus Equipment Ponoka Chris Johnson Chrome Hair Coda Welding Calnash Trucking Co-operators Lacombe Co-op Rimbey Cora Spelt Cross Eyed Welding Cutting Edge Dawn Dalton Diamond K Welding Doef’s Greenhouses Dirty Deeds Dots Crafts Eagle Builders LP E&B Trucking Kelly Huse Fountain Tire Ponoka Gull Lake Golf Course Gull Lake Veterinary Services

Hairapy Hamilton’s IGA Hair Loft Jemco Feeds Jesse & Kristy Joe & Anne Teeuwsen Jorgensen Trucking Ltd. Joyce Emerson Karve Fitness by Krista Tichkowsky Kevin & Marj Smith Linde Margo Allen McDonald’s Ponoka Mr. Mike’s Nancy Jensen Pattykake Bakery Perry’s Pizza Pharmasave Rimbey Phase 3 Phil Soderburg Construction Pixie Photo Ponoka Bookstore Ponoka Co-op Oils Ponoka Chrysler Jeep Ponoka Dental Centre Ponoka Fertilizer Ponoka News Ponoka Professional Pharmacy Poplar Lane Creations Prairie Point Quilt Shop Radio Active Antiques

Rada Cutlery - Iva Graham Randy & Shirley Ingram Rebel Energy Richardson Pioneer Rimbey Veterinary Clinic Rimbey Value Drug Mart Sandstone Flats Silpada by Mimi Searls Smelter Inc. Sommers Home Hardware Spelt Chicken Farms Ltd. Stationary Stories and Sounds Subway Ponoka Sunken Bridge Meats Tammy Holmes TanTec Electronics The Custom Craftsman Theresa Abt The Powder Room The McNutt`s The Wooden Shoe Thirsk Automotive Town and Country Supplies Totally Baked Cupcakery VJV Ponoka Walrus and the Carpenter Wes McDowell West Rim Investments Will`s Welding Ultimate Physique

A BIG Thank You from Crestomere and Bluffton Playschools for all your generous donations!

Long Stay Deluxe 2 bdrm Suites 4205 - 64 St., Ponoka, AB Includes: Fridge, Stove, Fireplace, Air Conditioning, Window Coverings, Oak Cabinetry with Corian Countertops, Balcony, High Security Card Locks. (Fully Furnished Extra).

ING! NOW RENT

ADULTS or SENIORS

Senior Discou nt

NO CHILDREN, NO PETS, NO SMOKERS Furnished - $1,295* month Unfurnished - $1,195* month All utilities included except telephone Senior* rates available

Call ERNIE at 780-335-6767

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 3

Ponoka man charged with forcible confinement

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Complaints of a break and enter to a Ponoka home resulted in a Ponoka man being charged with several offenses, including forcible confinement.

The incident occurred Tuesday, Dec. 8 with police charging the 31-year-

old Ponoka man with forcible confinement, dangerous driving, assault and several counts of breach of an undertaking.

Fraud awareness A man believing he had won $7.5 million is now out of more than $2,000 after realizing he was defrauded.

Man sentenced to jail related to 2014 kidnapping case

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS A Red Deer man was sentenced to jail after pleading guilty to unlawful confinement of a Ponoka man last year.

Tyler Scott appeared at Ponoka provincial court for sentencing Friday, Dec. 11 with defense counsel Craig Paterson and chief crown prosecutor Rod Clark speaking to the incident.

Scott is one of the seven accused involved in a home invasion and kidnapping of a Ponoka man last year. Charges against some of the seven were heard at the court a week ago.

Clark indicated that while there were other in-

dividuals involved in the incident, Scott was unarmed at the time.

“It’s a serious offense, there’s no doubt about it,” Clark added.

In a joint submission with Paterson, Clark advised that Scott should have 10 months of jail less 45 days for time served.

Paterson added that since the incident, Scott followed the conditions required of him and has had his liberties restricted for some time. Judge Gordon Yake spoke to Scott about the serious nature of the incident and its ramifications. Normally home invasions follow with longer jail sentences.

“You can go to jail for a long time and it starts at

five years,” said Yake.

“This mistake will follow you for the rest of your life,” he added.

Yake ordered jail time at 300 days minus 45 days for time served. Scott will be on a 10-year weapons prohibition and must submit a DNA sample for forensic checks.

Bail denied in carjacking case One of the accused teens in an alleged carjacking and assault case was denied bail.

Allan Rain, charged with robbery, unlawful confinement and assault in an incident on Oct. 23 was denied bail and will be remanded in custody. His case goes back to court Jan. 15.

Former CAO sues Town of Ponoka

gained entry through the backyard and loaded the deck onto a black GMC pickup with aftermarket tail lights.

If you have information, please call the Ponoka RCMP at 403-783-4472. If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact

Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or by internet at www. tipsubmit.com. You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers, and if you provide information to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest(s), you may be eligible for a cash reward.

PET OF THE WEEK Sponsored by

PORTABLE TOILET SERVICES

• Restroom Trailers • VIP Solar Powered Units • Handicap Units • Portable Toilets Commercial • Residential • Recreational

403-342-6198 403-783-8322 sale sa le es@ @li litt ttle tt le ejo j ns s.c ca sales@littlejons.ca

Have your own Christmas “Belle” all year round

To adopt call

403-783-7447

& CRUISE CENTRE

Ponoka Animal Services (Old MacDonald Kennels) Check our website

www.oldmacdonaldkennels.ca

PHONE: 403-783-4911 FAX: 403-783-5222

Take A Different Route

dirtvl@telusplanet.net www.direct-travel.ca

RIVER CRUISING EALL-INCLUSIVE UROPE 2009 - GREAT BUYS

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Former CAO Rachel Kunz is suing Town of Ponoka a month and a half after being let go.

The details of the claim are unknown at this time, except that the town was served with a statement of claim recently and it has been provided to the town’s lawyers.

It is believed the claim may be related to Kunz being fired for justifiable cause on Oct. 20 during a special meeting of the town council, where councillors voted to dismiss her because of the failure of the town administration to timely advise the council on the need for a borrowing bylaw to go ahead with North Bridge renovation project.

Mayor Rick Bonnett declined to comment on the statement of claim by Kunz, stating it is a legal matter. There are no details on if a statement of defense has been filed at the court.

Kunz was unavailable for comment.

The elderly gentleman reported to police Dec. 3 that he was called by an unknown person stating they would relay the money if he paid them $138. After the payment was made, the suspect called back and stated another $1,900 was needed to clear the money.

After sending the money, the victim realized he was swindled. He then received numerous harassing calls from the suspect looking for more money.

Investigators say anyone receiving suspicious phone calls should contact the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre at 1-888495-8501. Police were unable to determine the location of the call as the money was sent to multiple locations.

Man charged with assault on woman Police charged a 41-year-old man with assault Dec. 3 after reports he kicked and punched her on the road.

Officers say when they arrived at the scene the man was in the middle of the road stopping traffic.

Quad deck stolen The theft of a quad deck on Dec. 3 has police looking for suspects.

The deck was taken out of a backyard on 52 Street Close. Police say suspects

BOOK NOW & SAVE OFFER EXPIRES JAN. 15, 2016 Deposit & Save $175 to $450 pp CAN

or

Pay In Full & Save $350 to $900 pp CAN

Castles Along the Rhine 8 days Basel to Amsterdam Legendary Rhine & Morselle 13 days Amsterdam to Basel Holland, Belgium at Tulip Time 8 days Brussells to Amsterdam Ultimate European Journey 20 days Amsterdam to Istanbul

EUROPEAN 2009 SOLO JOURNEYS MOTORCOACH TOURS RIVER CRUISING - ALL-INCLUSIVE *NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT… Grand European Discovery 15 days Basel to Vienna Enchanting Darube 8 days Budapest to Passau MAGICAL RIVER CRUISES Legendary Rhine, Morselle 13 days Amsterdam to Basel Tulips & Windmills 10 days Amsterdam – Antwerp ON EUROPE’S WATERWAYS LOOKING for Sun and Sand – Super Vacations Call us for all-inclusives - the best deal for you…where the dollar is still a dollar!

DON’T FORGET YOUR OUT OF COUNTRY MEDICAL INSURANCE...

CALL US!

Rachel Kunz

Theresa

R Ramona

LOCATED IN THE LOW PROFESSIONAL BUILDING

Kahla

Amber

4 PONOKA NEWS

Religion

Your Guide To Local Houses of Worship

Blue Christmas service next Tuesday for the sad and grieving

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

BEATRIX SCHIRNER

Erin Dirsten - Fac. Youth & Family Min. & James Crosina - Fac. of Community Life

Ponoka United Church

Sr. Pastor Paul Spate

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 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. Shimit Abraham CFIC Mass Times: 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 9:00 a.m. Sunday

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

This world is a hard place. The number of jobs in Alberta is down and the number of suicides is up. We are still reeling from the attacks in Paris and the shootings in San Bernadino. A mortally injured young woman was found December 6 on a rural, gravel road in the Samson Cree Nation. That same day marked 26 years since 14 female engineering students were gunned down in Montreal. The stories of radicalization in our country, in the States, in Europe and who knows

where else are frightening.

At the same time we are busy preparing for Christmas. What do we do internally with the disconnect, between the season of peace and good will, and all the violence and pain that the world serves up? Many of us narrow our focus to buying gifts, decorating the tree, planning festive meals, and attending seasonal concerts. We hear and see the news, but we try not to let it affect us too much. Some might regard Christmas, with its feel-good stories of a baby in a manger, and shepherds and angels, as a distraction from the horrors of the world.

Yet the Christian faith calls us to bring such different realities together in

a way that goes against common sense. That manger baby and his parents were soon enough refugees fleeing from a jealous king who ordered the killing of all boys, aged two and under, in Bethlehem and surrounding area. Mary, Joseph, and Jesus didn’t return from Egypt until that king died.

Paul wrote, while imprisoned in a Roman jail, to the church he started in Philippi. The congregation was struggling, like Paul, with persecution by non-Christian authorities.

As well as being worried about their jailed pastor, there was tension among the leadership that affected the whole church.

Into this situation Paul instructs them to, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.”

(Philippians 4:4) He is reassuring them of his own undiminished joy even in his circumstances and calls for them to do likewise. What is the cause of his joy and his advice in the midst of such difficulties for him and his church? It is his profound sense that, “The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:5b) The Old Testament is full of prophets who announce judgment, for good reason, against the people of God. And indeed, enemies overcome them, and many are taken into exile in Babylon. That time

of exile (about 70 years) felt like total abandonment by God. Ultimately the prophets speak of God who sends a word of comfort and reconciliation, promising that they can come home again. Once again, God is near, they are not alone, not abandoned after all.

Scripture is full of stories of pain, turmoil, chaos; it is no stranger to trouble. Scripture is also the record of God’s faithfulness. The testimony of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, from beginning to end, is that no matter how bad things look, God’s loving power will win. Because we know that God is with us (the Lord is near) even in the most frightening and saddest of times, we can rejoice when we are scared or sad. This Christian witness, so counter-intuitive, is bedrock to our faith.

One way the church reaches out to those who are sad during this festive time is by offering a special, short, service of worship called Blue Christmas. It is on the longest, darkest night of the year—Tuesday, Dec. 22, 7 p.m. This year it is once again, at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, 5120 – 49 Avenue. Anyone who is sad, because of a loss of any kind in their personal lives, or just sad at the state of the world in general, is invited to join us.

5113 - 52 Ave., Ponoka, T4J 1H6 403-783-4048 stachurch@shaw.ca

ST. MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH Rev. Donna Willer Rev. Marty Tuer, Honourary Assistant 5120 - 49 Ave. Ponoka

PONOKA RISING SUN CLUBHOUSE

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 10:30 am

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.

For more information on these programs please call

403-783-5810 Weekdays

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 5

Reflections of Ponoka

The long and colourful history of senior hockey in Ponoka

BY MIKE RAINONE FOR THE NEWS I was never much of a hockey player, but for as long as I can remember, I have really enjoyed our great Canadian game on ice as an avid fan, a promoter and as a sports reporter for both the Ponoka Herald and the Ponoka News weekly newspapers. Our friendly community and surrounding rural districts have been a ‘hot bed of hockey’ for countless decades, all the way from the tots to teens minor hockey ranks and on into junior A and B, and the long-standing dynasties of the senior Ponoka Stampeders.

Along the way, it has always been a common sight to see a spirited and rambunctious game of shiny going on the outdoor rinks or ponds or out on the road under the streetlights, while at our local arenas successful leagues have been organized for farm, church and commercial hockey, as well as old-timers’ and ladies’ teams, or just a bunch of guys and gals who just like to get out and have a little fun chasing a puck around a slick sheet of ice. Over the years, many of our local hockey players have excelled and advanced into higher minor divisions, as well into the prestigious Alberta Junior Hockey League, Western Hockey League, Chinook Hockey League, College, and even the glitzy National Hockey League, and most of their photos and stories are proudly displayed at our arena complex or in our colorful history books.

Many of these players returned home with their families, some looking forward to extending their hockey careers by helping out with some coaching, refereeing,or promotion, or maybe even lacing up the old skates for a fun-stint on a local “old-timers’’ hockey team. With the formation of the Canadian Old-timers’ Hockey Association in the 1980s, literally hundreds of men 36 years of age and over took part in the keen team camaraderie of fun and non-contact competition throughout the winter in exhibition games and tournaments that were hosted in Western Canada and beyond, and attracted up to a 100 teams at each exciting event. Each team developed their own personalities and mascots, enthusiasm, and humour, as shown by the names on their sweaters, that featured wild logos such as: The Old Peckers, The Antiques, Wetaskiwin Relics, The Old

Photo courtesy of Brian McLaren

The Ponoka Chevy Oldstars captured the Pacific Cup at the 4th annual Pacific Cup Old-timer’s Hockey Tournament in Victoria, B.C. in 1983. Shown in the photo from left to right on the back row are Bill Goodacre, Dunc Grant (the father of Ponoka Hockey who played into his late 60s), Ken Owens, Randy Harper, Bill Chorney (manager and sponsor), Brian McLaren, Frank Cissell, George Goodacre, and Jan Mahood; and then seated in front are John May, Ron Laughlin, Wayne Lloyd, Cy Nelson, Ken Pohl, Jim Holt, Wayne Gee, and Wayne Calder.

Tubbers, The Spark Plugs, The Menopause Maulers, The Old Mooners, The Old Turkeys, The Old Crocks, The Chuggers, and on and on. The only rules for playing in this first class sanctioned hockey association were a

doctor’s certificate to say that you were fit to go, to have fun at each and every game on and off the ice, and to bring along your medications and lots of liniment in your equipment bag.

The Ponoka Chevy Oldstars In 1981, Bill Chorney, Ed Boruk and Merle Jones, the owners of Badry Sales and Service 1976 Ltd., kindly agreed to take on the sponsorship of our community’s newly formed Old-timer’s Hockey team, which would proudly carry the name of the Ponoka Chevy Oldstars for close to a decade of great seasons of fast and exciting hockey played among friends.

Over the years, the roster of players for the team came from the town and county of Ponoka, as well as from other areas in Central Alberta, and their

home games were hosted in our then new Culture and Recreation Complex.

Among the best memories of this classic Ponoka team over the years was travelling to old-timers’ hockey tournaments throughout Alberta, B.C., and Saskatchewan, where on many occasions close to 100 entries competed in the various divisions.

Long time local hockey mentor Bill Chorney fondly recalls that the wives usually accompanied the players on these ‘rowdy road-trips’, and while they really enjoyed cheering on the boys from the

stands, they also loved to shop, socialize, and exchange all sorts of fancy hockey pins with the other teams. The Chevy Oldstars fashioned a very good record over the years, winning their share of games, hosting their own tournament, and proudly winning the 1983 Pacific Cup in Victoria and the 1985 Prairie Cup in Calgary. During the many games that they played it was a real treat to face off against some former NHL stars like Tiger Williams, or to meet up with other players that they had played hockey with or

against throughout their long careers.

The Chevy Oldstars stayed together until 1986, but several other old-timers teams have been formed over the years and the proud spirit and tradition of ‘hockey in the Golden Years’ has carried on in many communities. Meanwhile, most of these ambitious gentlemen will never really hang up their skates as long as there are sons and daughters and grandchildren who love to shoot the puck around for just a little while on a brisk winter day.

Remember When...

Photo courtesy of Brian McLaren

The Ponoka Chevy Oldstars were the champions of the Prairie Cup Old-timers’ Hockey Tournament in 1985. Shown in the photo from left to right, back row, are Rob Baumbach, Dunc Grant, Grant Sharp, Gord Jones, John Kost, Frank Cissell, Jim Minde, and Brian McLaren, then seated in the front row is: Wayne Lloyd, Norm Hinkley, Cy Nelson, Ken Pohl, Jim Holt, Wayne Gee, and Bruce Hinkley.

6 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

Opinion

Science may have a say in the Bill 6 dispute

MUSTAFA ERIC Editor

The way tempers have flared among the farming communities and the refusal of the NDP government to back down on the matter of Bill 6 seem to be pointing to a politically hot winter and even spring

in the weeks and months ahead, with a potential to lead to serious instability in the province.

After announcing the amendments to Bill 6, which apparently were thought by the government enough to ease the concerns of the agricultural sector, the NDP majority in the provincial legislature voted to pass Bill 6 into law last week, prompting further fiery protests from both Wildrose Party and farmers. There have been protest rallies in many towns and along the highways with calls for NDP government to step down.

The anger over the passage of Bill 6 into law has gone to such lengths that there have been threats against the lives Premier Rachel Notley and leading NDP politicians, forcing main opposition Wildrose

Party’s leader Brian Jean to appeal to his supporters and objectors to the legislation to stop threatening violence. “These kinds of comments cross all bounds of respect and decency and have absolutely no place in our political discourse,” he said in a Facebook message.

It goes without saying that the extreme militancy of the reaction on the part of the hot-headed opposition supporters to the adoption of Bill 6 at the provincial legislature is disturbing to put it mildly. But it also raises some deeper concerns, as well, and those concerns relate to the fundamentals of the democratic governance in the province of Alberta.

Looking at the unfolding situation from a longterm perspective, one can easily note that the

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, Michele Rosenthal

Judy Dick Manager

source of the conflict is a piece of legislation impacting an area that has never been touched by the 44-year-long Progressive Conservative political dynasty.

Having ruled the province for so long, the PC governments may have perceived the farm safety and farm labor regulation issues as matters that would best be left untouched and as a result farming communities may have developed an understanding that those areas are destined to remain outside the jurisdiction of provincial governments and legislation.

But having won the election on a pro-labour platform, NDP has apparently decided that Alberta should be brought on a par with all the other provinces and territories of the

Mustafa Eric Editor

Jeff Heyden-Kaye Reporter

country when it comes to ensuring the safety and rights of farm workers.

At this point, it seems necessary to determine how much of the concerns of the farming communities are justified and how much of them are exaggerated as a result of misperceptions. One document protesting Bill 6 and making its rounds on the Internet asks “how and if the family farm way of life is a viable one for us.”

To say that Bill 6 threatens a whole way of life in this province seems to be a little too alarmist.

For a healthy discussion on the matter, it seems all stakeholders should make an effort to ensure that first and foremost cool heads prevail and provocative language is avoided and for this to happen, politics should be stripped

Jordie Dwyer Reporter

of the debate on the real content.

If the government wants to regulate labour practices in an industry where 112 lives were lost over the last six years, then this regulation is clearly necessary to prevent further loss of life and to ensure that if there is loss of life, regulations are in place to protect those who are left behind.

At this juncture, it might be a good idea to involve academia in the discussion to bring an educated analysis and suggest possible solutions to the conflict. We have ample sources of research, knowledge and expertise in the universities and in a hotly debated, highly political and controversial dispute, science may well be the best guide to show the parties the right path to choose.

Karen Douglass Sales

Susan Whitecotton Administration

editorial@ponokanews.com reporter@ponokanews.com rovingreporter@ponokanews.com sales@ponokanews.com manager@ponokanews.com admin@ponokanews.com All editorial content, advertising content and concepts are protected by copyright. Unauthorized use is forbidden.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 7

Letters

How much racism still exists in Canada?

Dear Editor, In a recent presentation to Canada’s First Nations leaders, RCMP Commissioner Paulson told his audience:“I understand that there are racists in my police force, I don’t want them to be in my police force.”

That was a surprising comment from the leader of Canada’s principal police agency, whose main role in the Canadian justice system is to admin-

ister justice in a fair and equitable way. Very rarely does someone in a powerful position admit to such serious concerns in an organization which he or she leads. Yet, where else than among First Nations leaders could such acknowledgement start an open dialogue?

Years ago when travelling to the Yukon, I wondered at the names of towns and cities in Canada. As I drove north, I wondered how the names

of towns reflected the atmosphere around contact between First Nations culture and European culture. What struck me was the names of places like Fort Saskatchewan, Fort McMurray, Fort Chipewyan, Fort Vermilion, Fort St. John, Fort Nelson. Fort MacLeod. Fort Simpson…

Edmonton was once called Fort Edmonton and Calgary was called Fort Calgary.

These towns represented military installations as in other parts of the British

The value of Klaglahachie Society Dear Editor, Mary Poppins was a smash hit, the new theatre seating proved to be a favourite with audiences. There were eight performances, with over 200 at each show and a total of over 2,000 for the eight performances. Sunday, Dec. 6 matinee was a sellout with 323 people attending.

Klaglahachie Fine Arts Society is a wonderful venue to showcase the very talented people that bring the story alive.

The cast was blesssed with actors from ages nine years to 79 years and all ages in between.

Central Alberta is very lucky to have Klaglahachie provide the opportunity to people young and old. The opportunity provided has changed the lives of young actors. Shy kids have turned into outgoing, boisterous individuals. The confidence the young people gain by being on stage will be with them the rest of their lives. What a contribution Klaglahachie gives those that take part in this wonderful production!

With my personal “Thank you” to Klaglahachie Fine Arts Society Dennis G Jones

Empire. These were paramilitary units that would protect the interests of a centralized British government. As with other places like Africa and India, there was a clear distinction between the local natives and the military forces.

I wonder if racism is part

of that heritage, much of which has, of course, changed over the years, but which nevertheless is an attitude handed down unconsciously, without much thinking or reflection, a reaction to someone else being different.

As with our attitude to

women, older people, disabled or people of other faiths, how much of this is a learnt response, where we make an big issue of our differences instead of getting to know who the person really is?

George Jason

ARE YOU A TOWN RESIDENT INTERESTED IN LAND USE PLANNING?

THE TOWN OF PONOKA SUBDIVISION & DEVELOPMENT APPEAL BOARD IS LOOKING FOR TWO NEW MEMBERS. TRAINING IS PROVIDED. The Subdivision and Development Appeal Board has two upcoming vacancies for members at large.

The purpose of the Board is to hear and decide upon appeals against decisions of the Subdivision Approving Authority or Development Authority. Training for Board Members is provided by Municipal Affairs.

If you are a Town resident and interested in land use planning, please submit a completed Application on or before December 20, 2015 to the Town of Ponoka.

Application forms are available at the Town Office: 5004 – 54 Street Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1N8 Or on the Town’s website at: www.ponoka.ca

Ponoka’s Christmas Store

Countdown to Christmas

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS* ARTIFICIAL CHRISTMAS TREES & WREATHS

DEC. 16TH - 22ND %

25 off INCLUDING SALE ITEMS WHILE SUPPLIES LAST

Come enjoy our winter wonderland Find the perfect gift for anyone!

ORNAMENTS Buy 1 get the 2nd one ½ price!

403-783-8190

5008 51 Avenue flowrs4u@telusplanet.net www.ponokaflowersforyou.ca

Sommer

Christmas Hours:

December 24th Christmas Eve 8am – 3pm December 25th Christmas Day CLOSED December 26th Boxing Day CLOSED December 31st New Year’s Eve 8am – 4pm January 1st New Year’s Day CLOSED

Regular store hours: Weekdays: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Sunday: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed Stat Holidays / OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK *Sale runs from December 16 to December 22, 2015 *Discounts include sale items *In stock items only while quantities last *Special orders arrived do not apply *No rainchecks or layaway

Website: www.homehardware.ca/sommerhhbc Telephone: 403-783-4464 | Twitter @sommerhh | 6503-44 Avenue in the Ponoka South Industrial Park

8 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

Property taxes to increase by 1.5 per cent

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Town council passed the town’s interim budget that will see a property tax in-

crease of 1.5 per cent in 2016.

The decision was made Tuesday, Dec. 8 during council’s regular meeting, which showed a full budget of $26 million with $15.8 in operations and $10.2 in capital

Christmas is a upon us at

WIN A GIFT BASKET! *GUESS THE NUMBER OF CHRISTMAS CANDIES IN THE JAR *Draw to be made Dec 17/2015

Come checkout our gift ideas for those hard to buy for!

Remember it is not too late to use your insurance before the year end

403-790-2700 • Bay #2, 5012 48 Ave. (located next to Ponoka Dental Centre)

expenses.

The budget includes a 3.5 per cent cost of living increase for management employees, something council debated during its public budget deliberations recently.

At the time of deliberations, council agreed on a 1.3 per cent cost of living adjustment in the budget, however, the 3.5 per cent was already accounted for and agreed on with the town’s out of scope policy, explained Sandra Lund, director of corporate services.

Coun. Carla Prediger suggested the amount could be dropped down to 1.3 per cent as was initially discussed during deliberations.

With a struggling economy Coun. Teri Underhill agreed and suggested a higher raise could be ideal during a boom in jobs. Coun. Loanna Gulka disagreed and suggested one reason for the raise is to ensure the town is a competitive work environment.

“We can’t be reneging on staff like that,” added Coun. Tim Falkiner.

Following the discussion the interim budget was passed. Prediger added a motion related to capital expenses at the Ponoka Fire Department.

She requested that no large capital spending be done on equipment, specifically the $500,000 budgeted for a new fire truck, until a fire services agreement

is finalized with Ponoka County. The only equipment allowed for purchase is a generator and air compressor needed for breathing apparatus.

Prediger’s motion passed with councillors Gulka and Falkiner voting against it.

Utility rates schedule passes second reading A request from administration to pass the town’s proposed utility rates schedule for 2016 did not pass third reading.

The proposed increase will see a 1.3 per cent increase in flat rates for water and sewer. Water will remain the same as in 2013 and 2014 as the North Red Deer Water Commission did not increase water rates, explained Lund.

Flat rates for waste management increase to $22.41 from $15.81 to cover the cost of recycling with Green For Life Environmental.

By not passing third reading of the bylaw, the town will have to foot the bill for the additional recycling costs. Dave McPhee, director of operations and property services, said until the bylaw passes the town will have to pay approximately $15,000 per month. Council did not move forward with third reading.

As Ponoka News was prepared for production, a notice was sent out by the town of a special council meeting set for Tuesday, Dec. 15 at 9 a.m. to vote on the utility rates schedule.

Ponoka /Rimbey Palliative Care Council

Coping with Grief During the Holidays #1 TOP BRANDS IN CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

MENS, LADIES, TEENS, KIDS

‘HOW CAN I GET THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS?’ Key points to help you cope:

Something for everyone on your Christmas list!

Storewide sale - on now!

All ladies, men’s and kids

25% to 50% off

Bay 3 5102 51 Ave

And so much more!

403-704-7412

• Plan for the approaching holidays. Be aware that this might be a difficult time for you. It may affect you emotionally, cognitively & physically. Be prepared!

• Recognize that the holidays won’t be the same. Doing things a bit differently can acknowledge the change while preserving continuity with the past.

• Be careful not to isolate yourself. It’s alright to take time for yourself, but don’t cut yourself off from the support of family & friends.

• The holidays may affect other family members. Talk over your plans. Respect their choices & needs. Plan to compromise.

• Avoid additional stress. Decide what you really want to do, & what can be avoided; greeting cards, holiday baking, decorating etc. Do I really enjoy doing this? Is this a task that can be shared?

• Plan to be with the people YOU enjoy.

• Don’t be afraid to express your feelings. Allow people to comfort you.

• Recognize your loved one’s presence in the family. Burn a special candle. Hang a stocking for your loved one in which people can put notes with their thoughts &/or feelings.

• Keep in mind that the experience of many bereaved persons is that they do enjoy holidays again.

Ponoka/Rimbey Palliative Care Council offers Services and Supports Ponoka FCSS Box 4004 5006-52 Ave Ponoka, AB T4J-1R5 403-783-4462 www.ponokafcss.net shannon@ponokafcss.net kerry@ponokafcss.net

Rimbey FCSS Box # 404 Rimbey, AB T0C-2J0 403-843-2030 www.rfcss.com pmakofka@rimbeyfcss.com kwinters@rimbeyfcss.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 9

2015 ENHANCEMENTS TO OUR BEAUTIFUL FOREST HOME CEMETERY We believe that Ponoka’s Forest Home Cemetery is one of the most picturesque cemeteries you’ll find in Alberta. The grounds are lovingly cared for by Town staff.The Town partners with the Ponoka Funeral Homes and he columbarium and Royal Canadian Legion, Ponoka Branch #66 to care for the columbarium and chapel. The cemetery is surrounded by mature trees and is located on the west side of town along Highway 53 and 67 Street. Forest Home Cemetery has a Field of Honour and is the final resting place of many war veterans, including two Commonwealth war graves from the Second and three from the First World War. Forest Home Cemetery plays an important role in many events paying tribute to our veterans, on Remembrance Day and other days of the year. And of course, it is also the final resting place of many of our own family members. With grave markers going back to 1901, the year of the first recorded burial in Ponoka, the cemetery is also a historic treasure. It is a peaceful place to visit and treasure cherished memories, many of which come to mind especially during the Christmas season.

A new Cemetery Master Plan for Forest Home Cemetery was approved by Town Council in February, 2015. Additional land was obtained in 2014 which increased the cemetery from 28.2 acres to 44 acres in size. The Master Plan outlines five phases for future cemetery enhancements to ensure to maintain its lovely character and provides for future generations.

Phase 1 started this summer and will be completed next year. The first thing people will see is

a beautiful new sign at the main entrance. There are also two new entrance gates north of the main entrance. Additional plot rows were created providing enough expansion for the coming ten years. A new columbarium on a concrete pad was completed, complete with floral planters and benches.

The chapel has also been enhanced, working closely with the Ponoka Legion Branch #66.“I enjoy my work with the legion members to improve the chapel and tell people more about the history of the cemetery,” says Val Schabert, the Town’s contact for Forest Home Cemetery. Schabert worked with Legion members to transfer historic records into the chapel. “Legion members have offered to work on murals and pictoral tributes to war veterans, and we hope to have pews and benches inside for seating,” she says.The chapel has new drywall, insulation and is now heated for comfort.

“I am always touched and honoured by the way I can help people make arrangements for their loved ones, as the Town’s contact for the cemetery,” she added, noting that the Town offers perpetual care for plots, including maintenance, mowing and weeding.

“Phase 1 will be completed next year with a new road being put in place extending north and more concrete runners. The maintenance shed will be relocated and some existing trees will be removed,” notes Justin Caslor, Town Engineer, who oversaw the ground work.

The final cost for this year was about $91,000. Phase 2 is slated for 2025 and future phases in the Master Plan take ongoing enhancements all the way to 2075 to ensure Forest Home Cemetery continues to provide service, and solace, to our community.

Ponoka Fire Department Weekly Report PONOKA FIRE WEEKLY REPORT: DEC. 6 – 10

The Fire Department responded to:

• 1 MVA • 1 Alarm (called off) A nice quiet week and lets hope it stays that way through the holidays.

Ponoka Fire Department Christmas Tree Safety Tips According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) it is reported that an average of 210 Structure fire are started each year by Christmas Trees. Here are some safety tips to help keep your holidays happy and your tree healthy. Have a Safe and Merry Christmas!

• • • • •

Water your tree at least 3-4 times per week.

Check the needles on your tree. They should be green and bend in your fingers. If they snap, the tree is too dry.

Use approved lights for your tree that are rated for the climate, Indoor or Outdoor. LED lights produce little to no heat. Avoid the use of candles on your tree.

Never leave a burning candle unattended. Keep your candles up from children and pets.

Check that your power bars are CSA approved and not overloaded. Don’t overloading extension cords and keep them away from areas where people can trip on them.

HOMETOWN NEWS

HOMETOWN EVENTS

FEATURE NEWS – PONOKA’S TOWN COUNCIL HAS APPROVED AN INTERIM BUDGET FOR 2016

Remember to post YOUR event on the Town’s calendar – it is easy to do. Go to Ponoka.ca and you will find it on our home page. We are happy to promote your events here and online!

Highlights of this budget include a proposed municipal tax increase of 1.5% and approval of 23 Capital Projects totalling approximately $3.325 million. The Operating Budget is approximately $16.880 million. Council made a firm commitment to proceed with major projects that align with Ponoka’s new guiding principles, which are to invest in keeping Ponoka safe, healthy, ready and vibrant. The interim budget gives staff direction to begin work for 2016. Next steps will be the final tax rate and budget approval in the spring. The list of projects for 2016 is posted on the town website.

BOARD AND COMMITTEE VACANCIES

COUNCIL UPDATES Next meeting of Council: Tuesday, January 12, 2016. Please note this meeting will be at 6 pm at the Ponoka County Boardroom. Agenda packages are posted on the website under ‘Town Hall’ in advance of every Council meeting. Everyone is welcome to attend.

TOWN NOTICES

Heritage & Downtown Revitalization Committee - are you passionate about heritage? Do you own a downtown business? Please consider joining this committee to shape Ponoka’s future. Call Stephen Novak, Economic Development Officer at 403-783-0116 or email Stephen. novak@ponoka.org Utilities and Environmental Committee - Looking for four members at large for this new committee, which will explore new means of revenue generation, funding and business models related to Town utilities, natural gas distribution system and waste management.

Are you a Town resident interested in Land Use Planning? The Town’s Subdivision and Development Appeal Board has two upcoming vacancies for members at large. Training is provided by Municipal Affairs. The purpose of the Board is to hear and decide upon appeals against decisions of the Subdivision Approving Authority or Development Authority.

Roll out the Carts! New Waste Carts are being delivered this month! Look for your information package inside or check out the information on the Town website - Ponoka.ca. This Please submit completed Applications on or before December 20, 2015 to the Town of Ponoka. is also a great time to consider supporting the Ponoka Rising Sun Clubhouse’s recycle program. Application forms are available at Town Hall or on the website.

For information about this option please call them at 403-783-5810 Sign Up for Monthly Tax Plan payments - Please sign up by December 18, 2015 for the 2016 QUESTION OF THE WEEK Tax Year. You will need to sign a form and be sure to bring a “VOID” cheque with you.

- “How do you find out about Town news and events?

Dog Licences are on sale until January 31, 2015 for $25 each. After this date they will be Please let us know, by going to our website at www.ponoka.ca and let us know if you $40. prefer the website, Facebook, Twitter, or the Hometown Weekly News.

Christmas Holiday Schedules have been posted online – http://www.ponoka.ca/community Of course, we think you should check them all!

Ice Rental: Small ice surface is available for rent. Contact Tamara @403 783-0131

10 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

Death of Ponoka businessman a shock to the community

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS The tragic death of Colin Mackenzie, businessman and owner of Mackenzie’s No Frills has sent ripples of sadness to those that knew him.

Mackenzie was involved in a sports activity in Ponoka Tuesday, Dec. 8 when it is believed an accident sent him into a coma. STARS Air Ambulance was called in for Mackenzie to be transported to the University of Alberta hos-

pital in Edmonton. Mackenzie succumbed to his injuries two short days later leaving family and friends in shock.

Jim Hamilton, president of the Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce said the community had lost a

I am thankful for being a friend of Colin Mackenzie’s ROB MCARTHUR My original intention was to write this article about having a good attitude, adopting change and being community minded. All of that changed last week when I heard of the tragic passing of Colin Mackenzie, the owner of Ponoka’s No Frills, due to a recreational accident.

Colin Mackenzie was my friend.

I spend a lot of time at No Frills. Ask the staff. I am in the store an average of eight to 10 times a week. Usually, when we visit a business, we do so for the purpose of doing business. Occasionally, we develop a rapport with staff and/ or owners that may progress beyond the typical sociable banter, but rarely does it go past that into the realm of friendship.

Back in the spring, I made a decision that I didn’t want Colin Mackenzie to be just another person I made chit chat with while at the grocery store. I decided that I wanted to be his friend, and so the next time I saw him while shopping, I approached him and asked if he and his lovely wife, Patsy, wanted to come for dinner. Colin kindly accepted. A few weeks later, the Mackenzies came for dinner.

For the next several hours, Colin and Patsy graciously befriended my children, and the four of us kindled a friendship.

Proverbs 18:24 says “A man who has friends must show himself friendly, but there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.” In other words, there is a cost to friendship. There is a cost to every relationship.

Friendship requires that we “put ourselves out there”.

Friendship compels us to open up the sanctuary of our home to others. Friendship necessitates trust and a degree of risk. What are those risks?

The risk of rejection. The risk of emotional cost. The risk of losing someone. But for all of the risks and costs of friendship, the joy of knowing someone, the joy of having a friend is worth the risk.

Matthew 28:16-20 records the moment when Jesus’ disciples meet him in Galilee shortly after his resurrection. Jesus has defeated the grave victoriously. He is full of resurrection life. Then He commissions his followers to “Go and make disciples of the nations.” Christ’s followers are invited to get swept up into the unfolding drama of God’s redemption and restoration of our lives and the world.

The trouble is, the context for the Great Commission is usually overlooked. It starts with verse 16, which says, “Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee”. Formerly the twelve. A tight knit group of Jesus closest associates, now suffering the loss of one of their friends. A lot of people unjustly write off Judas because he betrayed Jesus. However, his life and his tragic death, didn’t happen in an isolated bubble. It happened within the context

of friendship.

How could the all-knowing God of the universe ever want friendship with a man knowing it would end in loss?

Because Jesus considered the risks of making a friend to be worth it. He knew that we don’t need a gospel that guarantees us a happy life without loss. We need the gospel which meets me in the tragedy that can be life.

My heart breaks for Patsy, her sons, and the staff at No Frills. For the second time in less than a year, Ponoka has lost a great business leader and significant contributor to our community. We are all poorer for the loss. But for the pain of losing friends, I will never stop making friends!

I will never stop putting myself out there. The joy of having known someone far outweighs my feeling of loss. I am thankful for the opportunity to have made a friend in Colin.

major advocate for Ponoka.

Ever since Mackenzie and his wife Patsy opened No Frills in 2013, the couple have been heavily involved in the community with sponsorship of many community events, active in the chamber and supportive of community groups including the breakfast program at Ponoka Secondary Campus.

“He has been very front and centre,” said Hamilton.

Mackenzie is survived by his wife Patsy and sons Scott and Thomas. A memorial service is being held today at McInnis and Holloway in Calgary.

In his obituary, the family thanks family and friends for their support. A tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park in Calgary in memory of Mackenzie.

Tributes can be addressed directly to Ponoka Boys and Girls Club at 1-844-477-7272 or via email at donate@bgccan.com or the Canadian Children’s Brain Cancer Foundation at http://ccbcf.org/donate/.

The sudden death of Colin Mackenzie, husband of Patsy and owner of No Frills has sent shockwaves of sadness within the community.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Allowance not cutting it ?

JOIN THE

PONOKA NEWS Carrier Team GET SOME

EXERCISE EARN EXTRA

MONEY

AND WIN

PRIZES! Reliable carriers are automatically entered into a monthly draw WIN an additional $50!

Keep up the good work and your name will be entered to win a $400 GIFT CERTIFICATE! Each week the PONOKA NEWS reaches residents where they live, work and farm. In town our papers are delivered door to door by reliable carriers and WE COULD USE MORE HELP.

If you are interested in a LOCAL ROUTE please contact

SUSAN WHITECOTTON at 403-783-3311

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 11

EVENT

•

ON MOST NEW MODELS

NO PAYMENTS ‘TIL SPRING AND CASH BACKS UP TO $12,000! •

MSRP $21,164 $ 135 B/W 84MTHS

MSRP 65,649 $ 325 B/W 84MTHS $

SALE

SALE

C1208

$

19,500

T0809

$

2015 FOCUS SE SEDAN

MSRP $30,139 $ 169 B/W 84MTHS

SALE

2015 F350 CREW CAB LONG BOX

46,900

C1200

$

2015 FIESTA ST HATCHBACK

24,275

MSRP $44,944 $ 257 B/W 84MTHS

SALE

C1197

$

37,127

2015 F150 PLATINUM MSRP 72,899 $ 390 B/W 84MTHS $

SALE

T1003

$

56,900

MSRP 85,349 $ 455 B/W 84MTHS $

SALE

T0781

$

2015 TAURUS SEL AWD

2015 F350 LARIAT CREW

“LIFT TRUCK”

67,424

ALL FACTORY REBATES TO DEALER. ALL VEHICLE PLUS GST AND FEES. $499 ADMIN & $20 TIRE TAX, $6.25 AMVIC FEE. EG. C1208 2015 FOCUS 4.9% OVER 84 MONTHS. BW PYMT $135. TOTAL PAYMENTS EQUAL $24961.30, TOTAL INTEREST EQUAL $3893.28

STUFF YOUR STOCKING WITH CHRISTMAS SAVINGS T1108B

70

$

B/W 84MTHS

180

$

B/W 84MTHS

SALE

SALE

$

8,900

T1164A

$

2013 FORD FIESTA SE

2013 FORD EDGE SEL AWD

25,900

99

$

B/W 84MTHS

283

$

B/W 84MTHS

SALE

SALE

C0752A

$

2013 DODGE DART

12,900

P0510

$

2012 FORD FOCUS SE

$

99

B/W 84MTHS

2014 FORD F150 FX4 LUXURY CREWCAB

40,900

$

303

B/W 84MTHS

SALE

SALE

L0522

$

13,900

T1123A

$

2014 FORD PLATINUM 6.2L CREW

43,900

*ALL PR ICES PLU S $499 AD M IN FEE & GST. E G 2012 F ORD F OCUS SE 84 MON THS F IN AN CIN G 4. 99% APR TOTAL PY MTS $ 1 8 5 5 0 .4 0 . TOTAL INTEREST $ 2 8 6 6 .3 8

“Let your Legacy start here.”

www.legacyfordponoka.ca

YOUR LEGACY TEAM

Pat Boardman General Sales Manager

Kelly Perras Finance Manager

Trevor Feragen Sales Consultant

Eric Dortman Sales Consultant

Robin Patrick Sales Consultant

12 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

Quilts to warm the hearts of kids

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Ponoka volunteers put many hours into the creation of handmade quilts intended for kids who need them this holiday season.

Prairie Points Quilt Shop, along with volunteers with

Ponoka Pin Pals — a sewing group that holds charity quilting days — spent some time putting 25 kid-themed quilts together. These quilts are being donated to Ponoka Victim Services.

The groups held a sewing day at the Ponoka Elks building to put all of the blankets

together. One lady used her longarm sewing machine to quilt six blankets, said Prairie Points owner Lynn Burdett.

She said it has always been a joy for her to donate quilts for a good cause.

The blankets were donated Wednesday, Dec. 9 at Burdett’s shop in downtown Ponoka.

Are you passionate about Ponoka’s Heritage? Do you have ideas to share to make our Downtown Revitalization a reality?

The Town of Ponoka is seeking members for the new Heritage & Downton Revitalization Committee: • Five (5) Members representing Downtown Businesses • Two (2) Members representing the public at large

If you are interested, please contact Stephen Novak - Economic Development Officer at 403-783-0116 or email stephen.novak@ponoka.org

Lynn Burdett (middle), owner of Prairie Points Quilt Shop makes a donation of blankets to Ponoka Victim Services on Wednesday, Dec. 9 after hours of quilting from volunteers.

Accepting the quilts are Miranda Pinksen (left), executive director of Ponoka Victim Services and Eliza Groeneveld, administrative assistant and advocate.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Join Julie’s Travel on these exciting EXCLUSIVE group tours:

For the last 11 years Julie’s Travel has been providing a full service travel agency that has a strong and loyal customer base.

Owner Julie Evans’ business is successful for several reasons, not least of which is her dedicated customer base.

Julie’s Travel has found a niche market in Julie being the tour guide for her clients on escorted tours all over the world. Each year Julie’s Travel creates special guided tours around the world.

“I just like that I can show people parts of the world that they might not necessarily go to on their own,” says Evans.

Each tour brings its own unique memories. Evans has guided groups from 25 people to 113 people depending on the tour and for her: “It’s all about the experience.”

“I have a very loyal clientele base and I wouldn’t be able to do this job if it wasn’t for them,” said Evans.

With great memories come great friendships. Julie’s Travel has clients who have made long-lasting friendships because of these specialty tours.

Getting to this level of customer service takes a strong team and Evans is proud of her agents who keep things running.

Megan Unland and Kim Krzywy keep the office and sales flowing while Evans guides clients around the world. From fascinating sites to historical places, the tours are sure to bring lasting memories.

Julie has traveled to 81 countries around the world and is still counting. In June, she is hosting a group to Norway.

Her love of the job shows in countless sales awards.

Julie’s Travel also works with Newwest Travel and for the last 11 years, has consistently earned the first or second place top sales award for the company.

And her customers? Just like family. “I have the best job in the world thanks to the very loyal, dear people that do business with me. I genuinely care about their travel experiences. I want people to have the best travel experience they can have,” explained Evans.

EXPLORE SOUTH EAST ASIA

with CFCW’s AJ Keller from February 4 to February 23

This fascinating tour explores Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand. $8450* per person.

NOW RADIO JOIN OILERS NOW BOB STAUFFER on a California Road Trip from February 24 to February 27

The package includes airfare, accommodation, Oilers vs. LA Kings and Oilers vs. Anaheim. $2770* per person.

CULTURAL GARDEN TOUR FEATURING France River Cruise from April 7 to April 19

This wonderful itinerary includes a 7 night French river cruise and 3 nights in Paris. $6495* per person.

FALL COLOURS OF NEW ENGLAND October 4 to October 11

We will be touring Boston, Vermont, Maine & New Hampshire. $3679* per person.

All the above tours include all taxes, farewell parties and complimentary Edmonton airport parking.

For more details please contact Julie’s Travel at 403 783 4954 or email juliestravel@telus.net “Offering highly personalized service with outstanding integrity for all your travel needs.”

www.juliestravel.ca

*The rate is based on double occupancy

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 13

ONLY FROM

CONNECT

& WIN

EVERYONE’S A WINNER!

DEC 4TH - JAN 4TH

WIN 1 30 VEHICLES OF

VALUED UP TO $35,000

OR

FROM

1,000 10,000

$

TO $

IN CASH CREDITS

TOWARDS THE PURCHASE OR LEASE ON ANY 2015 OR 2016 CHEVROLET

SALES: 1-877-465-8279 www.adamsgm.com

ADAMS CHEVROLET BUICK GMC 6305-44 Ave Ponoka AB. T4J 1J8

HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Sunday: Closed

14 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

EVERYONE’S A WINNER

WIN A MINIMUM CASH CREDIT OF $1,000

UP TO

10,000

$

CASH CREDITS*

TOWARD THE PURCHASE OR LEASE OF ANY 2015 OR 2016 GMC

OR

DEC. 4 – JAN. 4

VISIT YOUR LOCAL GMC DEALERSHIP TO PLAY!

WIN 1 OF 30 VEHICLES

VALUED UP TO $35,000

2015 SIERRA 2500HD 1SA DOUBLE CAB 4X2

2015 TERRAIN SLE-2 AWD SHOWN

0

%

FOR UP TO

PURCHASE FINANCING

84

MONTHS ^ ON SELECT 2015 MODELS.

OR

MINIMUM

11,000

$

CASH CREDITS† ON OTHER MODELS

INCLUDES $1,000 CONNECT & WIN BONUS.

2500HD SLE 4X4 MODEL SHOWN

BI-WEEKLY LEASE OFFER

2016 TERRAIN 15122MB0 15122MN0 15122MS0 SLE-1 AWD

179 0.9%

$

@

FOR 48 MONTHS

$

LEASE RATE**

700 DOWN

BASED ON A LEASE PURCHASE PRICE OF $31,355.

INCLUDES $1,000 CONNECT & WIN BONUS.

SLE-1 AWD MODEL SHOWN

BI-WEEKLY LEASE OFFER

2016 ACADIA SLE-1 AWD

199 0.9%

$

@

FOR 48 MONTHS

$

LEASE RATE†

1,150 DOWN

BASED ON A LEASE PURCHASE PRICE OF $40,085.

SLE-1 AWD MODEL SHOWN

WHILE INVENTORY LASTS.

INCLUDES $1,000 CONNECT & WIN BONUS.

ALBERTAGMC.COM

ON NOW AT YOUR ALBERTA GMC DEALERS. ALBERTAGMC.COM 1-800-GM-DRIVE. GMC is a brand of General Motors of Canada. Offers apply to the finance of a 2016 Terrain SLE-1 AWD, 2016 Acadia SLE-1 AWD, 2015 Sierra 2500HD 1SA Double Cab 4X2. License, insurance, registration, administration fees, dealer fees, PPSA and taxes not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited time offers which may not be combined with other offers, and are subject to change without notice. Offers apply to qualified retail customers in Alberta GMC Dealer Marketing Association area only. Dealer trade may be required. * No purchase necessary. Open to Canadian residents with a valid driver’s licence who have reached the age of majority in their province of residence. Contest closes January 4, 2016. Credit Awards up to $10,000 include applicable taxes and must be applied to the purchase or lease of a new 2015 or 2016 MY GMC vehicle delivered on or before January 4, 2016. Thirty Vehicle Awards available to be won, each consisting of winner’s choice of a vehicle with an MSRP of $35,000 CAD or less. The customer is responsible for any other taxes, license, insurance, registration, or other fees. Vehicle Awards are not transferable and no cash substitutes are permitted. Not all awards have the same odds of winning. For full rules and program details, visit your GM dealer or gm.ca. Correct answer to mathematical skill-testing question required. See your GM dealer or gm.ca for full contest rules and program details. Vehicles shown 2015 Terrain SLE-2 AWD model [$34,695 MSRP] CDN, including freight and a/c tax. ^ Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada for vehicles delivered between December 4th, 2015 and January 4th, 2016. 0% purchase financing offered on approved credit by TD Auto Finance Services, Scotiabank® or RBC Royal Bank for 84 months on select new or demonstrator 2015 GMC vehicles excluding Yukon, Yukon XL, Sierra 2500 HD Diesel, Savana, Canyon 2SA and Canyon 4x4. Participating lenders are subject to change. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and/or security deposit may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: $45,000 at 0% APR, the monthly payment is $535.71 for 84 months. Cost of borrowing is $0, total obligation is $45,000. Offer is unconditionally interest-free. Freight, air tax ($100, if applicable) included. License, insurance, registration, PPSA/movable property registry fees, applicable taxes and dealer fees not included. Dealers may sell for less. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. **Lease based on a purchase price of $31,355, including $1,000 Connect & Win Bonus (tax inclusive), for a new eligible 2016 Terrain SLE-1 AWD. Bi-weekly payment is $179 for 48 months at 0.9% APR, on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. Annual kilometre limit of 20,000 km, $0.16 per excess kilometre. $700 down payment and a $0 security deposit is required. Payment may vary depending on down payment or trade. Total obligation is $19,228, plus applicable taxes. Option to purchase at lease end is $12,926. Price and total obligation exclude licence, insurance, registration, taxes and optional equipment. Other lease options are available. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited-time offer, which may not be combined with other offers. See your dealer for conditions and details. General Motors of Canada Company reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. †Lease based on a purchase price of $40,085, including $1,000 Connect & Win bonus (tax inclusive) for a new eligible 2016 Acadia SLE-1 AWD. Bi-weekly payment is $199 for 48 months at 0.9% APR, on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. Annual kilometre limit of 20,000 km, $0.16 per excess kilometre. $1,150 down payment is required. Payment may vary depending on down payment or trade. Total obligation is $21,790, plus applicable taxes. Option to purchase at lease end is $19,341.

Price and total obligation exclude licence, insurance, registration, taxes and optional equipment. Other lease options are available. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited-time offer, which may not be combined with other offers. See your dealer for conditions and details. General Motors of Canada Company reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. † $11,000 is a combined total credit consisting of a $10,000 Cash Credit (tax exclusive) available on 2015 GMC Sierra HD Gas models (excluding HD Gas Double Cab 1SA 4x2), $1,000 Connect & Win Bonus (tax inclusive), which is available for cash purchases only and cannot be combined with special lease and finance rates. By selecting lease or finance offers, consumers are foregoing this $10,000 credit, which will result in higher effective interest rates. Discounts vary by model.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 15

Tornado Hunter wows St. A students

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS It was a presentation that had lots of flash, dash and bash that everyone seems to love.

Ricky Forbes, one-third of the now-famous Canadian storm chasers called the Tornado Hunters, was at St. Augustine School on Wednesday, Dec. 9 to give about 100 Grade 4 to 6 students a glimpse into what it’s like to run toward some of the worst weather you can find in North America along with the science behind it all.

Forbes, who is from Saskatoon, has been chasing tornadoes for four years alongside his partners Greg Johnson and Christ Chittick - both of whom hail from Regina and have 10 and 15 years of chasing storms under their belts respectively. Their television show - Tornado Hunters - has been broadcast for three years now and doesn’t feel like work for Forbes.

“We are the only professional storm chasers in the country and, like a lot of people, we used to stop and watch these large storms. The difference now is that we look to see if it’s a super cell thunderstorm and then try to find out what is going on inside of it,” Forbes told the students.

“I do get scared, terrified sometimes and we also need to remember we are not bulletproof, but it’s that pushing the limits and feeling of excitement I get that keeps me doing it and makes it not feel like work.”

Forbes wasn’t dragged into storm chasing, it was simply another adrenalin-fueled activity he was attracted to like a few others that he already loves including skydiving, snowboarding and mountain biking.

“This past year, we were on the road for seven months straight, chasing storms for 12 to 16 hours a day. It’s something I love to do, but the one thing I miss is the time I’m away and miss things such as family time and other events,” he added.

Much of the presentation focused on showing the students how and why tornadoes occur, along with a few photos, videos and stories from Forbes about some of his experiences chasing storms.

He mentioned that much of Alberta - except some southern parts of the prov-

Ricky Forbes from the Tornado Hunters let the Grade 4 to 6 students from St. Augustine put their boots to the new truck - Flash 2.0 - that they had customized this summer. The students also learned about weather, storm chasing and what to do in case of a tornado during the presentation.

Photo by Jordie Dwyer

ince - is outside what is classified as Tornado Alley - but that an average season will see Alberta get about 15 to 20 tornadoes, the majority of which land in fields and aren’t destructive. Tornado Alley is a wide swath that runs north covering most of Texas and the plains in the United States right up to include a large chunk of Saskatchewan along with areas of Alberta and Manitoba.

“This area has the right ingredients - flat land along with the right weather conditions. However, some huge and devastating tornadoes can occur outside that area,” Forbes

said, such as the two of the worst in Canadian history - the 1987 Black Friday tornado that hit Edmonton and the one that hit Pine Lake in 2000.

Forbes then talked about a couple of his most memorable tornadoes - one from this past summer in Alabama, where four separate tornadoes formed from one cell then merged into one and another from a couple years ago where they ended up inside the middle of the storm.

“The one from this summer was one of the largest I ever saw - it was like it had four fingers that all converged into one torna-

Cory invites past clientele and welcomes new clients.

• Family hair care needs • Cuts • Colours • Waxing Saryna Key & Pai-Shau hair care products available

(403) 307-3346 5813 61 Street Close, Ponoka, AB

do,” he said.

“And the most extreme storm was back about two summers ago, when we ended up near a huge storm and got out to take some photos, then next thing you know we had to get back in the truck due to the rain and hail. But we couldn’t go anywhere so we rode it out, then everything went calm and

we got out only to lose my hat with the updraft winds.

It was the most amazing and terrifying at the same time. We were inside the storm for about two or three minutes.”

The most amazing thing for the students was learning about how tornadoes form as well as getting to see the truck used to chase the storms.

For Forbes though, who does about 200 of these kinds of school presentations each year, it’s a blast seeing how the students react to learning more about the science behind tornadoes and severe weather.

“It’s cool and fun to see their faces and a blast to be able to talk to them,” he said.

16 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

Limited edition prints: Lacombe artist Kim Penner signs one of 80 limited edition Ponoka Stampede posters Monday, Dec. 14 at the Ponoka Stampede office depicting bareback rider Jake Vold on the 2014 bareback horse of the year Mucho Dinero. Behind her sits the original painting to be auctioned off at the 80th Ponoka Stampede.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Our office will be available by appointment only from December 21 - January 1 in order for our staff to prepare and enjoy the holiday season with their families.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

SANDRA LYON TYLER FESSLER Broker/Owner

Associate

RIZWAN SYED Associate

CHANELLE LYON Associate

#3, 5012-48 Ave in the Wedin’s Prof. Bldg.

LISA BONE Associate

403-783-8881

6000 - 48 Ave.

(Beside The Old Iron Horse Restaurant)

real estate central alberta ALIX PROPERTY

- 60 x 110 sq. ft. Lot - Mobile Home & Appliances sold “As Is” - Numerous Trees Planted on Lot - Great Opportunity to Move New Mobile in

403-783-5007 COUNTRY SOLITUDE

$39,900 Call Deb IMMACULATE LUCAS HEIGHTS BUNGALOW

- Built in 2007, 1275 sq. ft. on main - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths - New carpets and all fresh paint - Fully fenced yard on quiet street - Move in ready!

IMMACULATE HOME IN LUCAS HEIGHTS

$355,000 ~ Call Lisa DON’T MISS THIS ONE! - Extensively renovated,

immaculate bungalow immacula - 4 beds & 1 bath - Oversized lot with detached garage

SOLD REDUCED

- 946 sq. ft, fully finished - 4 bdrms, 2 baths - 24 x 14 garage, treed/fenced yard - New H2O tank, 2010 roof - Backs on to Town ball diamonds

- Fantastic Bi-level - Large Kitchen w Granite & Island - Open Floor Plan - Master w WI closet & Ensuite - Fenced yard; open field at back $279,500 ~ Call Bob!

- Fantastic Location backing onto nature reserve - High quality finishing throughout - 5 bedrooms, 3 baths - Fully developed with over 2700 sq. ft.

- Landscaped, fully finished yard with extra parking and finished shed

BRAND NEW! JUST MOVE IN - 984 sq ft with 2 beds & 1 bath - Bungalow styled townhouse

Associate

FAMILY HOME

sq. ft., 5 bdrm, 2 bath GREAT FAMILY HOME - 1,274 - Renovated bthrms, paint, doors, & trim - Detached 22'x24' garage - Fully finished up & down - Lrg deck looks over fenced yard $255,000 ~ Call Todd PRIME ACREAGE

- 32 acres, mostly cleared - Good dugout; 2 deep wells - Serviced & partially fenced - $970 annual rental income $230,000 ~ Call Bob

TODD REED

Assoc. Broker

- 4-level split - 5 bedrooms, 2 baths - Corner lot - Double detached garage $230,000 Call Deb

GREAT STARTER OR REVENUE! - 1051 sq ft with 3 beds

JANE WIERZBA Associate

DEB STEVENS Assoc. Broker

GREAT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

UNIQUE FAMILY HOME

- 1560 sq ft with 4 beds & 3 baths - Extensively renovated with addition

GREAT STARTER

- 3 bdrm 1½ storey home - Appliances included - Fenced yard, Garage

shop & parking - 4 - 10 acre parcels w/QEII exposure!

- Road is in place, lot is stripped - Gas & power at property edge

Call Bob for more details

- Two 1 bedroom suites & One 2 bedroom suite - Fully rented - Extensive upgrades

- 4 beds & 2 baths - Some upgrades - Nice sized lot

PERFECT FAMILY HOME! - 1195 sq. ft. with 4 beds & 3 baths G NEW LISTIN - Nicely renovated with open floor plans - Large lot in a prime location!

$289,900 ~ Call Jane GREAT STARTER HOME

$209,000 ~ Call Todd EXCELLENT PROPERTIES - 3 acre parcell w/office building,

Associate

$169,900 ~ Call Lisa

$310,000 - Call Jane DOWNTOWN LOCATION

LISA SMITH

$310,000 Call Deb

& 1 bath - Many improvements on main floor! $179,900 ~ Call Lisa

$230,000 - Call Jane

$242,000 ~ Call Todd AFFORDABLE HOME - 4 bdrms /3baths

- 259 acres on 2 titles - 2,483 sq. ft. exective home - 23 x 68 ft. hanger w/ private runway - Gorgeous yard w/ orchard $1,250,000 Call Deb

BOB TILTGEN

$449,900 ~ Call Lisa

$205,000 ~ Call Jane RIVERSIDE HOME

Proud sponsors of RDC Arts Programs

- Bright and clean - Many recent upgrades - 1146 sq ft, 2 bdrm, 2 bath - Large 65 x 145 lot - 22’ x 50’ Garage

$269,000 ~ Call Todd PRIVATE ACREAGE

- Beautiful 1,467 sq. ft. walk-out - 4 bedrooms & 4 baths - Fully finished; Many extras!

- Large Kitchen w Island - Spacious Decks, front & back - Close to Ponoka & beautifully treed

$499,900 ~ Call Bob

TO VIEW A COMPLETE LIST OF OUR PROPERTIES AND VIRTUAL TOURS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT

www.ponokaproperties.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 17

Teacher Takedown - Todd Lewis is hacked to the ice by Zach Key in front of the Ponoka Secondary students team net tended by Braeden Korchinski during the opening half of the 22nd annual Santa Showdown between Ponoka Secondary students and teachers on Thursday, Dec. 10 at the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex. The teachers held a commanding lead early, but saw the students make a miraculous comeback to win 41-36.

However, the real winner on the night was Santa’s Anonymous, with the Grade 12 students raising more than $2,363 through ticket sales, a bake sale and donations.

Photo by Jordie Dwyer

JOHN W. LOW Agencies Inc. 5118 - 50th Street, Ponoka 1-800-392-8658 6 ACREAGES AVAILABLE

LOOKING TO BE YOUR OWN BOSS?

Beautiful building sites just a short drive south of Ponoka in Jada Estates. Building restricitons make this property an exclusive area for upscale homes.

Choice country acreages, close to town. Sizes vary – some treed, others open with walk-out potential.

BRIAN HATALA

NORTH END

Ladies & Mens Bamboo Clothing

Asking $257,000

20%

Call Brian 403-704-7018 RED DEER LAKE LAKE FRONT CABIN

Beautiful setting on just under 1 acre.

Priced at $159,000

13.5 ACRES

WAYNE McGARVEY

Enjoy savings NOW!

duplex unit 2 - 3 bdrm units fully rented.

Call Brian 403-704-7018 403-704-7018

Why wait for Boxing Day?

Call Wayne 403-704-0864

DEER CREEK

Close in

CLOTHING, ACCESSORIES, GIFTS & HOME DECOR

This well established health food business with steady clientele is your opportunity.

Business is a turnkey operation with quick possession.

Call Wayne 403-704-0864

Call Brian

403-783-5512

Gypsy Fringe Boutique

Call Brian 403-704-7018

SHAWNA LOW Broker

PROFESSIONAL REALTORS OF JOHN W. LOW AGENCIES INC.

Wood Decor Signs

20% off

Many in-store specials!

OFF

OUR GIFT TO YOU….

Spend $100 or more…choose a gift certificate worth up to $50 from our tree!

Sterling Silver Jewellery

30% off

Gift Certificates 403-704-8000 • 5101 - 51 Ave. Available

18 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

WCPS face huge deficit, decline to ban international travel

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS The financial past is now catching up with Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS) and it will soon have an affect on the fiscal future for the division.

At its regular meeting on Thursday, Dec. 10, the board of trustees were presented with the adjusted 2015-16 operating budget for the public school division and, though not surprised to see a deficit, they were shocked by the seemingly large grenade that landed in their laps.

Trustees were informed in a presentation by Roger

Hall, WCPS assistant secretary-treasurer, that the division is now facing a $2.26 million deficit for this current budget year.

This deficit is up $1.1 million from the board’s budget in the spring - which is adjusted in the fall by provincial mandate - as a result of reduced per-student funding from the province combined with an increase in expenses for teachers and technology.

Hall explained the division’s prediction on how many students would be in class was off slightly - 36 students less than the estimate - along with

other changes in funding resulted in about WCPS getting $600,000 less from the government, while a $553,000 jump in contracts - which includes $315,000 in technology upgrades - as well as about $664,000 hike in teacher and other staffing costs all combined to generate the rise in the projected deficit.

All of the trustees expressed concern over the numbers and that such a large deficit will require them to expend a tremendous amount from reserves to cover it.

“We created this situation last June and it has

Farm and ranch families spoke.

We’re listening.

me concerned, but we also need to be able to help our students that need it,” said trustee Bob Huff.

Meanwhile, trustees Lori Jess and Donna Peterson stated they both believe the funding changes are part of the province’s way of forcing school divisions to reduce their reserves of which WCPS had close to $4.35 million in operational and capital reserve funds at the start of this fiscal year - due in part to the poor optics presented in the media earlier this year.

The report was presented as information to the board and has already been forwarded to the Education ministry as required.

No travel ban here There will be no blanket ban on school-sponsored international trips by Wolf Creek Public Schools.

Trustees approved a recommendation from Superintendent Larry Jacobs that parents of students that have signed up and paid for these trips be presented with the opportunity to back out if they wish or sign a letter affirming they understand the risks involved and remain willing to have their child go on the trip.

The issue rose to the spotlight last month after the tragic Paris terrorist attacks, which led to several Alberta school boards to cancel all international trips over concerns about

safety of the students.

Jacobs explained administration has been carefully looking into the issue through discussions with the trip providers and the two insurance providers, which produced several details that led to his recommendation.

The first issue was the tight deadline and the costs that would be incurred by participants for cancelling - which would be about $500 if done now or as much as $2,000 each if done even a couple weeks later. Another issue was that all the trips could be reorganized or their itineraries changed to avoid potential highrisk areas. continued on page 20

GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEA! Bird Early y 13 of Ma Dra$w 0 travel a 150 cher vou

The Government of Alberta has amended Bill 6 to respond to farm families’ concerns.

Amendments to the Enhanced Protection for Farm and Ranch Workers Act will assure farming families of their ability to pass on traditions to their kids: the next generation of producers. That’s how this province was built.

PONOKA STAMPEDE & EXHIBITION ASSOCIATION June 27 - July 3, 2016

The new legislation will not affect: 15122DG1 •

purely family-owned and operated farm and ranch operations, even if family members are paid,

•

families’ ability to teach their children about farming and farming traditions,

•

kids’ participation in 4-H programs, or

•

neighbours who volunteer to help each other out.

The new Act will reflect legislation in other provinces that: •

protects the safety of waged workers and helps prevent workplace accidents, and

•

compensates waged workers, or those workers’ families, in case of disabling injury or death on the job.

Family farms continue to flourish in all other provinces with similar legislation. Ours will too.

Learn more at work.alberta.ca

CATTLE RAFFLE 1st Prize Draw for 40 Bred Heifers

or $70,000 Cash

Proceeds go to facility improvements and operating expenses

5,0 0 0 p rin $50/Tic ted ket

Ponoka Stampede Cattle Raffle 2016 Name: Address:

No. of Tickets: (at $50 each)

City: Postal Code: Phone:

Total Enclosed: Mail to Box 4212, Ponoka, AB T4J 1R6

License No. 419641 Box 4336 Ponoka, AB. T4J 1R7

Tickets can also be picked up at The Jones Boys Saddlery and Western Wear (Ponoka, Red Deer), McCFeeds or any Stampede Director

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 19

Bridge borrowing bylaw continued from page 2

The bylaw also sets the authority of municipal officials and peace officers, the latter position the town has set in its 2016 budget.

One concern from Coun. Carla Prediger was over communication with residents. She suggests the town should inform the public of the change prior to it being approved. Wright replied that once council approves the bylaw is when the communication begins.

The proposed bylaw is set to return to council’s next meeting.

Police advisory committee bylaw passes second reading Council approved second reading of the police advisory committee, which will create a committee that communicates closely with the Ponoka RCMP. The committee will act as a liaison between council, Ponoka RCMP, the CAO and Ponoka residents. As with the traffic bylaw, the final decision is expected to go to the next council meeting.

Clarification:

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS The Community Christmas story on page 12 of the Dec. 9 edition of Ponoka News states people should call Ponoka FCSS for a ride from the Wheelchair Van Society due to erroneous information given by the source. Folks who need a ride to the Community Christmas should contact the society directly at 403-783-2258.

LIKE US TODAY!

15122MF0

20 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015 Golden Age Bowlers President Doug Gill presents a cheque for $500 to Kassidy McCurdy of PSC for Santa’s Anonymous.

Submitted photo

a

me

Natural Gas Ho Makeover

WCPS face huge deficit continued from page 18

“Joe (Henderson, WCPS secretary-treasurer) and I spent time talking to both providers and the time frames on deciding to cancel these trip that are taking place in the spring are critical, as little as a few days away,” Jacobs told trustees as he explained his reason for bring forth his preferred recommendation.

“If the trips are cancelled as far out as possible, then people can get back as much as they can.

However, we were also told they could either provide vouchers or, better yet, revise or modify the agendas for each trip and where they go based on the situation. They both said they have the teams and supports available to shift things to different cities, hotels on the fly.

“As well, they stated the

only way a full refund would be provided is if the Canadian government instituted the regions as a no-fly area. So for them, it’s business as usual with just a heightened sense of awareness. Also, some other school boards are reconsidering the bans they already placed on international travel and that’s why I am recommending this option.”

In addition, Jacobs told trustees that all of the principals at the schools involved plus the staff members that are in charge of the trips are all interested in seeing the trips go ahead, along with several parents that he has heard from.

Given that information, all of the trustees agreed it would be best to leave the decision in the hands of those taking part.

“Part of it is the fear, but we need to be re-

Anywhere, anytime, find us online. www.ponokanews.com

alistic and weigh this against the value of these trips,” stated trustee Barb Walker.

Trustee Peterson summed it up saying “We need to let the parents determine if they still want their child to go, not just force a blanket decision on them.”

Safe at Home with Natural Gas There are so many ways to use natural gas to enhance your indoor and outdoor living spaces. When you’re in the market for new appliances, think comfort, convenience and cost savings. Think natural gas!

For safety tips - and a chance to win a $10,000 Natural Gas Home Makeover visit ATCOGas.com./SafeHome

SAFETY TIP: During the winter months, when your furnace is working harder, check the filter once a month to keep the furnace running at its best.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 21

Library now has license for showing movies to public

We at Ponoka Jubilee Library would like to thank everyone who has taken part in our holiday fun so far this December.

We had an absolute blast with the 20 or so families who made crafts and decorated trees with us at our ‘Vintage Family Christmas’, and building the swag wreaths was fantastic.

And you still have a couple of chances to enjoy some Christmas merriment here with us.

On Friday, Dec. 18 at 11 a.m., Ms. Lori will be throwing a Christmas party for the last Story Time of 2016. Children ages three to six, along with their parents are invited to come on down to the library to enjoy an hour of fun, which will include games, stories, crafts and treats. If you can’t make it that day, Story Time will start up again on Monday, Jan. 4 at 11 a.m., and run every Monday and Friday morning. And the last Christmas event we will be hosting here is our ‘Free Family Movie’ on Monday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. Everyone is invited to come watch ‘Arthur Christmas’ while snacking on some popcorn.

Bring your pillows and blankets to curl up on the floor, and enjoy some laughs. We will be collecting food bank donations from now until December 22, so if you come down for an event it would be great if you could bring a non-perishable food item with you.

Just a reminder that the library will be closed December 24-27 for the Christmas break, so come get enough books and movies to last you. We will reopen on December 28, and be open until 2 on New Year’s Eve, closed New Year’s Day and back to normal hours on Saturday, Jan. 2, from 11-4.

We are excited to announce that we have obtained a public viewing movie license for the library, so we are going to start offering a monthly movie afternoon. Our plan is to offer them on Friday afternoons when a large number of the children have the day off school.

We’ll be showing movies like Inside Out, Minions, Big Hero 6 and the Goosebumps Movie. Make sure you check out our Facebook page or website to find out dates,

times and what the movie of the month will be.

Speaking of our website, it has undergone a complete overhaul. The new website is

Wise customers read the fine print: *, 9, †, *, ◆, §, 5 The Be Your Own Santa Sales Event offers are limited time offers which apply to retail deliveries of selected new and unused models purchased from participating dealers on or after December 1, 2015. Offers subject to change and may be extended without notice. All pricing includes freight ($1,745) and excludes licence, insurance, registration, any dealer administration fees, other dealer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell for less. *Consumer Cash Discounts are offered on select 2016 vehicles and are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes.

9Holiday Bonus Cash of up to $1,000 is available until December 31, 2015, on most new 2016 Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and FIAT models excluding the following: 2016 Chrysler 200, Dodge Grand Caravan CVP, Journey CVP/SE Plus, Durango, Charger SRT Hellcat, Challenger SRT Hellcat, Viper and Jeep Grand Cherokee models. Bonus Cash will be deducted from the negotiated price after taxes. See your dealer for complete details. †0% purchase financing available on select new 2016 models to qualified customers on approved credit through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Example: 2016 Jeep Cherokee Sport with a Purchase Price of $26,298 with a $0 down payment, financed at 0% for 60 months equals 130 bi-weekly payments of $202 with a cost of borrowing of $0 and a total obligation of $26,298. *3.99% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package/2016 Chrysler 200 LX (28A)/2016 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package models through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Examples: 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package/2016 Chrysler 200 LX (28A)/2016 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package with a Purchase Price of $21,998/$22,998/$19,998 (including applicable Consumer Cash Discounts) financed at 3.99% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 208 bi-weekly payments of $124/$129/$112 with a cost of borrowing of $3,714/$3,883/$3,376 and a total obligation of $25,712/$26,881/$23,374. ◆3.49% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on select new 2016 models to qualified customers on approved credit through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Example: 2016 Jeep Cherokee Sport with a Purchase Price of $26,298 with a $0 down payment, financed at 3.49% for 96 months equals 208 bi-weekly payments of $145 with a cost of borrowing of $3,859 and a total obligation of $30,157. §Starting from prices for vehicles shown include Consumer Cash Discounts and do not include upgrades (e.g. paint). Upgrades available for additional cost. 5Sub-prime financing available on approved credit. Finance example: 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package with a purchase price of $21,998 financed at 6.99% over 60 months, equals 130 bi-weekly payments of $201 for a total obligation of $26,095. Some conditions apply. Down payment is required. See your dealer for complete details. TMThe SiriusXM logo is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc. ®Jeep is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC used under licence by FCA Canada Inc.

BY JACLYN BERRY

to our latest Ponoka News articles, list of items that we have on order, information about our upcoming events, a copy of our monthly

much more user friendly for people accessing it on mobile devices, and provides easier access to our eLibrary services. It also has links

0

%

FINANCING

†

ON SELECT MODELS

+ $7,100 UP TO

calendar and general information about what the library offers. Check it out at ponokalibrary.prl.ab.ca and let us know what you think.

IN TOTAL * DISCOUNTS

AND

Coming soon: Get your cook on with ‘Dinner for Two: Easy and Innovative Recipes for One, Two, or a Few’ by Julie Wampler.

500

$

HOLIDAY BONUS CASH◊

ON MOST MODELS

2016 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN CANADA VALUE PACKAGE

21,998

$

FINANCE FOR

124 3.99

$

BI-WEEKLY≥

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $7,100 CONSUMER CASH* AND FREIGHT.

%

@

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

Starting from price for 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT Plus shown: $30,940.§

2016 JEEP CHEROKEE SPORT

26,298

$

FINANCE FOR

145 3.49

$

%

@

BI-WEEKLY◆

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $500 HOLIDAY BONUS CASH◊ AND FREIGHT.

Starting from price for 2016 Jeep Cherokee Limited shown: $34,540.§

2016 CHRYSLER 200 LX

22,998

$

FINANCE FOR

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $2,500 CONSUMER CASH* AND FREIGHT.

129 3.99

$

%

@

BI-WEEKLY≥

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

Starting from price for 2016 Chrysler 200 C shown: $30,140.§

2016 DODGE JOURNEY CANADA VALUE PACKAGE

19,998

$

FINANCE FOR

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $2,000 CONSUMER CASH* AND FREIGHT.

112 3.99

$

@

BI-WEEKLY≥

%

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

Starting from price for 2016 Dodge Journey Crossroad shown: $32,140.§

chryslercanada.ca/offers

REBUILDING YOUR CREDIT? SUB-PRIME RATES FROM ONLY 6.99% OAC≈

22 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

Farmers converge on Ponoka to protest farm safety bill

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS

BRIGHT & CLEApNm OPEN 6am-11

daily!

3 sizes of washers 2 sizes of dryers

Comfortable sitting area with tv 4205 64 ST., Ponoka • 403-783-8382 Ponoka • Wetaskiwin • Leduc

Several hundred farmers converged on the Calnash Ag Event Centre over the weekend to protest the advancement of Bill 6.

A convoy of vehicles and tractors drove to the ag centre Saturday, Dec. 12 with large banners stating “Stand up for Alberta” on the back of pickup trucks. The rally was in protest to Bill 6, The Enhanced Protection for Farm and Ranch Workers Act, which became law Dec. 11.

Hearing questions were three MLAs, LacombePonoka’s Ron Orr, RimbeyRocky Mountain HouseSundre’s Jason Nixon and Innisfail-Sylvan Lake’s Don McIntyre. Also on the dais was a man by the name of George Clark, who started a campaign called “Albertans First.”

All four provided some comments and then listened to questions from attendees, some of whom have travelled to other rallies in central Alberta. Orr started by saying recent protests by farmers

have helped create one of the largest campaigns in Alberta’s history, mainly due to the lack of consultation on the part of the government.

He added that those protests helped add several important amendments to Bill 6.

Those changes include family members, owners and friends who volunteer to help being excluded from Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), only non-owner or non-family waged individuals being required to have coverage; if waged individuals are owners or family members of owners they will be exempt from the safety regulations, however, farm and ranch families may elect to choose WCB coverage.

Following death threats against Premier Rachel Notley and other NDP MLAs, Orr urged attendees not to use violence or threatening language. He suggested those actions would do more harm to their goals. “That

would play, quite frankly, into the hands of the social mindset.”

While Bill 6 has passed, Orr added that it would take some time to draw up regulations that should work for the industry and Orr said farmers must keep up the pressure on the government to ensure their rights are considered.

Several questions were put forward to the MLAs. One from Dan Skeels related to educating the urban population of the rural farmer’s concern with the bill. He worried if this new bill will affect his property rights.

Nixon replied that he feels there is support from some cities. “The people in Calgary are with us in a big way.”

“Edmonton’s more 50/50 according to the polls we get,” he added.

One attendee appeared to blame the NDP for the loss of oil and gas jobs in Alberta.

John Satink, who has travelled to several rallies, was clear on his thoughts.

“The only way to get them to understand is that the

A few hundred farmers rallied at the Calnash Ag event Centre Saturday, Dec. 12 to ask questions and raise concerns over the recent passing of Bill 6. Standing is Lacombe-Ponoka MLA Ron Orr speaking before a question and answer period.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

VJV MARKET REPORT MARKET REPORT DECEMBER 9, 2015

On Wednesday, December 9, 2015 - 3506 head of cattle went through our rings TOTAL - 3506

SLAUGHTER CATTLE D1 - D2 cows D3 - D4 cows Good Holstein cows Medium Holstein cows Heiferettes Bologna Bulls

100.00-115.00 85.00-100.00 85.00-90.00 75.00-85.00 115.00-135.00 115.00-133.00

Feeder bulls 125.00-145.00 Good Bred Cows Older Bred Cows Good Bred Heifers: Cow/calf pairs (younger) 1225.00-1925.00 Cow/Calf pairs (older) -

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: Dairy Steers Baby Calves Dairy Type: Baby Calves Beef Type: Hay: Sq Bales Straw: Sq. Bales Greenfeed: Sq. Bales

150.00-172.00 160.00-183.50 185.00-206.00 204.00-221.25 210.00-230.50 224.25-265.00 250.00-284.00 267.00-298.00 -100.00 -260.00 6.50-9.00 1.50-2.00 -

Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers

145.00-170.00 165.00-180.50 172.75-197.00 192.00-214.00 202.00-240.00 226.50-289.00 252.00-272.00

Rd Bales Rd Bales Rd Bales

Vold Jones & Vold Auction Co. Ltd. | Dawson Creek Auction Vold Jones & Vold Co. Ltd. © 2006 4410-Hwy 2A, Ponoka Alberta, Canada, T4J 1J8

-105.00 -20.00 -

NDP is not welcome in this province after all that they have done,” said Satink.

Withholding taxes was one suggested form of protest.

Stan Woodberg suggested the only way to get the province to notice is by putting taxes in an escrow account.

He added that if the OHS staff came onto his property, it may be a bad idea for them.

“It probably wouldn’t be good if they come to my house because I’m going to grab something and I’m going to crack them across the head with it,” added Woodberg.

Concerns of OHS or WCB legislation How OHS and WCB legislation will affect farmers was a common concern during the evening.

Statements from attendees showed fear in the unknown as there is yet to be regulations drafted for Bill 6.

“A lot of the realities there are truly unknown because they don’t have the legislation,” said Orr. He added that he has been speaking with OHS policy makers who are saying legislation will be made suitable for the farm industry. Many regulations in the energy industry are written by the companies themselves and Orr suggests one solution for farmers would be to create templates of safety regulations. “Don’t panic before we get there.”

Innisfail-Sylvan Lake MLA McIntyre was clear on his thoughts of the provincial government. “Bureaucracy will get bigger under a socialist government.”

He suggests the NDP government is more socialist in its values, which goes against a democratic system.

“They see private ownership of farmland as being inefficient in use. They see capitalism as being a bad thing. They see profit as being evil. ‘How dare you make a profit.’ But they fail to understand that’s how you get your wages paid and that’s how taxes get paid,” said McIntyre.

He suggests the Bill 6 legislation is a red herring aimed at distracting people from another agenda. “This thing is about unionization of farm workers across the province.”

The MLAs also appealed to attendees to continue their peaceful protests to get the proper farm safety legislation needed for the industry. Also at the rally were two petitions signed by participants, one against Bill 6 and the other against the proposed carbon tax.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 23

Sharing the glorious blessings of Christmas.

MIKE RAINONE HAMMERTIME

By now wherever we travel, there is absolutely no doubt that it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and hopefully most of you out there during this balmy early winter have caught the festive spirit and are rushing around to attend the annual concerts and staff parties, while shopping in a totally organized and stress-free mode. With great spark and creativity, we are trimming the tree and decorating our homes and shops inside and out to suit the gala occasion, while pausing to plan and really look forward to the annual joyful Yuletide gatherings and camaraderie of family and friends.

As we hustle and bustle in all directions during this delightfully modern but always traditional month of December, hopefully we will find time to honour the true meaning of Christmas…. the birth of the Christ child so many centuries ago in a chilly but glowing stable on

the outskirts of Bethlehem.

This glorious time should also be so much about giving and sharing with loved ones and friends, but on top of all that there is also the feel good joy that comes right from the heart when we can all have the opportunity of reaching out to those who are not as fortunate as others. Unfortunately, there are many souls among us who are homeless, alone, far from home, or may be shut-in due to illness or disabilities, and let us not forget that at the present time in our great province of Alberta many others are unemployed, down on their luck, and would really need and appreciate a helping hand for themselves and their families.

We have many choices of how we can support many special causes, especially at this time of the year, and these may include a little cash into the bright red and traditional Salvation Army Kettles in many locations, as well as donations and supplies to the local food banks, which are currently in overwhelming demand by clients over this holiday and the winter months ahead. The annual Santa’s Anonymous Christmas Hamper Campaign is now in its 34th year under the direction of the Ponoka Secondary Campus, whose decorated collection boxes are located throughout the community. With the winter months ahead, many families and individuals will be in dire need of warmer coats, boots and clothes, which can be kindly dropped off at the Ponoka United Church Thrift Shop or other collection boxes around town. Once again the gala CP Christmas holiday

Ponoka Moose Lodge

NEW YEARS DANCE Thursday, December 31, 2015 Moose Hall, Hwy 2A, Ponoka, AB (3 km south of Ponoka)

Featuring Live Band Music Juke Box Rock • Dance from 8pm - 12:30am • $45 pp, limited tickets sold • Late Dinner is included • For more info call Fred or Jean at 403-783-8587 • Tickets can be picked up from Fred or Jean • Or Walrus and Carpenter or Raspberry Patch - Ponoka

train rolled into Ponoka last week and treated hundreds of onlookers of all ages to a glorious display of lights and song. The host, Ponoka Lion’s Club and their volunteers happily report and appreciate the excellent public donations of many pounds of non-perishable items and cash to the Ponoka Food Bank. As always, the Ponoka Kinsmen/Kinettes hosted their traditional magnificent Carol Festival at the United Church and presented another generous offering to the local food bank.

For those who have not made any plans for Christmas dinner, the popular annual Ponoka Community Christmas will be held on Friday, Dec. 25 at the Royal Canadian Legion and everyone is welcome to attend.

Coffee and entertainment goes from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, followed by a glorious turkey buffet dinner and all the trimmings from noon until 1 p.m.

Donations to the gala event are always welcome and can be made by calling Bob Hepp at 403-783-6165 or dropped off at the Ponoka Rising Sun Clubhouse or Servus Credit Union, while those wishing to join in and volunteer or entertain for the occasion are asked to call Carla Prediger at 403-783-4078 or Val Schabert at 403-783-8799. Over the years. I have been so fortunate to be able to contribute to many Christmas events, and I will always be overwhelmed by the ongoing spirit, compassion and support of all of you in and around our community who are so willing to reach out to others in all sorts of caring and wonderful ways.

You are all the best, and you deserve to have a jolly good week, all of you.

Surprises, surprises

BRENNAN TURNER FarmLead

Statistics Canada came out on Friday, December 4th with another whopper of a production report, blasting away market expectations by pegging this year’s Canadian canola crop at 17.2 million tonnes, an increase of almost 4 per cent from last year and the 2nd largest on record after 2013’s monster. The market was expecting a number around 15.6 million tonnes, but with average yields in Western Canada climbing 9 per cent year-over-year, the market shifted almost 25 cents/bushel lower after the report. It’s more than likely though that the private trade was expecting something with a 16-million tonne handle, so with a lower Canadian Loonie and higher soyoil prices, canola surprisingly only ended 0.4 per cent lower on the day of the StatsCan report and have since returned to their pre-report levels.

Total wheat production was pegged at 27.6 million tonnes, again well above the 26.7 million guesstimated ahead of the report, but smaller than 2014’s 29.4 million tonne crop. This included almost 20

million tonnes of spring wheat and 5.4 million tonnes of durum, which is almost 15 per cent higher than the 5-year average production number.

The Canadian soybean crop was bigger for the 7th consecutive year at 6.2 million tonnes while corn production was up 18 per cent year-overyear to 13.6 million tonnes, thanks to a record average yield of 170 bu/ac in Ontario.

Canadian barley production was also bigger at 8.2 million tonnes versus the 7.6 million expected and 7.1 million produced in 2014, but that’s generally in line with the 5-year average production number. As for the pulse and specialty crops, most results came in line with pre-report estimates with 942,000 MT of flax (+8 per cent year-overyear, +62 per cent from the 5-year average), 3.2 million tonnes of peas (-16 per cent YoY and -4 per cent from the 5-year), 2.4 million tonnes of lentils (+19.4 per cent YoY and 26.7 per cent from the 5-year and you can probably expect that number to climb in 2016).

For the mustard crop, 123,000 MT was taken off (-37 per cent YoY, -21.2 per cent from the average), 84,000 MT of chickpeas were harvested (-32 per cent YoY and -37.5 per cent from the 5-year average but that’ll likely be made up by the aforementioned Aussie crop), and 149,000 MT of canaryseed (+19 per cent YoY and +8 per cent from the 5-year average).

Overall, the market continues to be in a net short position on the futures board (except for soyoil) so the fundamentals generally remain bearish in Chicago.

However, currency effects are playing a significant role today, which is exactly why the USDA’s attaché in Buenos Aires, Argentina believes that any major sales of crop by producers there will be limited by further depreciation of the

Ponoka Drop-In Activities 5015 – 46 Avenue

Drop-ins welcome at all events.

Dec. 20 - 7 pm - Gospel Concert with “Strings n’ Things” Jan. 29 - Potluck & General Meeting 5:30 pm. Bring a dish to share, table service & enjoy good company.

Regular Jam session every Saturday at 1pm Billiards - Weekdays 1:00pm. Mon through Sat – 50 cents per game. Honour system Monday Bridge 1:00pm Monday Whist - 1:30pm Monday Yoga - 6:30pm Tuesday Canasta - 1:00pm Tuesday & Thursday Exercise class 9:30am - last class for 2015 - Dec 17. First class 2016 - Jan 12 Tuesday Pickleball 6:30pm Centennial Centre - contact Janice Mackie 403-396-3160 Tuesday Shuffleboard - 7pm Wednesday morning - PIANO LESSONS FOR SENIORS (Sara Driedger 403-790-1980) Wednesday Sewing Guild 9:30am to 4pm Wednesday Cribbage 1:00pm Wednesday Yoga - 6:30pm Wednesday Duplicate Bridge 7:00pm Thursday Floor Curling - 1:00pm Thursday Weaving 1:00pm Welcome to drop-in to see how it’s done Thursday Bridge 1:00pm Thursday Art Club Drop In Noon to 4pm Friday “500” 1:00pm Saturday Yoga 9:30am Memberships available for 2016 - $10.00 per person. 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!

Argentinian peso under new President Macri. Conversely, demand of Canadian exports will likely be higher year-overyear, helped push out the bigger-than-expected crop that StatsCan says was produced in one of the weirdest growing season the country has ever seen. Thus, the sway in the market in the near term for cash prices will likely be moved not so much by supply/ demand, but the competiveness of the Canadian Loonie relative to other currencies.

To growth, Brennan Turner President and CEO FarmLead.com 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).

Ponoka Capitol Theatre 4904 - 50th St. Ph. 403-783-3639

PLAYING

December 18 - 24

SCREEN #1

Star Wars 135 min 2:00 PM Weekends Daily Shows 6:30 & 9:30 PM Rated PG

SCREEN #2

Alvin & The Chipmunks: The Road Trip

92 min 3:00 PM Sat & Sun 7:00 PM Daily Rated G

Early Premier

Star Wars

Thursday, Dec. 17 7 PM

CLOSED

Dec. 24 & 31 AGES 12-64 $9.00 AGES 2-11 & SENIORS $7.00 TUESDAYS & MATINEES $6.00 3D $3 EXTRA

24 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

BBBS Spotlight: Kingston and Ferron From mentee to mentor SUBMITTED

Kingston (left) and Ferron enjoying their gingerbread cookie creation together.

Submitted photo

When asked why she was interested in becoming a Big Sister, Ferron said that “I had a Big Sister when I was in elementary school, and that really influenced me.

Now it’s my turn to give back”.

Ferron is a Grade 12 student at Ponoka Secondary Campus and this is her first year in the Teen Mentoring Program.

The program is offered in cooperation with Alberta Education and the Alberta Mentoring Partnership. Students in grades 10 to12 from Ponoka Secondary Campus are provided with the opportunity to mentor a student from Ponoka Elementary School. The matches meet for one hour a week and enjoy playing games, making crafts and spending time together.

While Ferron and

Kingston are still getting to know each other, they do enjoy playing in the gym, hanging out and decorating cookies.

Watching Kingston and Ferron interact over decorating Christmas cookies, you would never have guessed they had just met for the first time only one month ago.

“Look at our cool cookies” Kingston says, proudly holding up his gingerbread man cookie.

When asked how he feels about being matched with Ferron, Kingston says “We do lots of fun stuff and Ferron is so nice to me.” Ferron says she is enjoying this experience so much already, and “wished she had started mentoring sooner.”

One hour a week is all it takes to make a difference in the life of a child.

Call 403-783-3112 to learn how you can become a mentor today!

KLAGLAHACHIE FINE ARTS SOCIETY GRATEFULLY THANKS • • • • •

Director: Kevin Ferguson Musical Director: Althea Lewis Musicians: Charlotte Boychuk and Michelle Blanchette Sound & Light Technicians: Graham Boyes & Sarah Sperber Actors who spent countless hours rehearsing; costumers, sets and props people, decorating crews, sound and light crews and the administration staff.

• Citizens of the Town and County of Ponoka and surrounding communities for exceptional and ongoing support.

We are privileged to acknowledge the following businesses for their commitment and generosity.

PONOKA PROFESSIONAL PHARMACY BIRCHLAND DENTAL CLINIC STRAND MEDIA CORPORATION STRETCH CONSTRUCTION FLOWERS FOR YOU HAMILTON’S IGA PONOKA CO-OP OILS PONOKA DENTAL CENTRE SOMMERS HOME HARDWARE SUNNY ’94 MELODIE HELM BOB RONNIE CATERING CILANTRO & CHIVES RESTAURANT SUSAN CHANTAL PHOTOGRAPHY QUALITY PAINT & COLLISION REPAIR 2009 LTD. TANTEC ELECTRONICS LTD. Special Recognition goes to the Congregation of the Ponoka United Church for once again sharing the Church Sanctuary during the Festive Season

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER. 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 25

Sports

Broncs take bronze in home tournament

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS

a four-point lead. This boosted their confidence and they kept up that pressure for the rest of the game. They created several opportunities for scoring in the Gryphons’ side of the court. The only thing holding them back was incomplete shots.

“We’ve got a good unit of guys. What I’ve been preaching is using each other and not being selfish,” said Johnson.

He suggests successful possessions comes with good shots at the net rather than throwing the ball wildly and hoping for points. Johnson feels this will also build players’ confidence on the court. He referred to Grade 10 player Evret Fillinger who is one of his best shooters on the team but needs to keep up the momentum and confidence.

Against the Gryphons, Fillinger did just that. “He made a bunch in a row.” continued on page 26

The Broncs senior boys basketball team managed to capture the bronze medal at their annual classic Pump tournament over the weekend, but it wasn’t easy sailing.

Their first game against the Barrhead Gryphons Friday, Dec. 11 proved an up and down challenge for the team who were ahead at the end of the first quarter but down 25-30 at the end of the half. Coach Tyler Johnson told the team to work on their full court press.

“They just responded to it and did it the way I drew it up,” said Johnson.

“The other team didn’t have an answer for it,” he added.

Indeed, about three minutes into the third quarter, an energy seemed to ignite within the Broncs who managed to capture

Stampeders losing skid continues

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS Another disappointing effort isn’t what was needed heading into a lengthy

break.

The Ponoka Stampeders Jr. B squad managed just 14 shots on net to go with 50 minutes in penalties in what ended up as a

Stampeders Nate Higgins tries to sneak the puck past the Red Deer goaltender following a scramble midway through the second period in what ended up as a disappointing 5-1 loss at home on Wednesday, Dec. 9.

Photo by Jordie Dwyer

5-1 loss to Red Deer on home ice Wednesday, Dec. 9, marking the club’s fifth straight defeat.

The Stampeders then faced a huge 10-day break before they host Airdrie on Saturday, Dec. 19 (puck drop set for 3 p.m.) then head to Banff on Sunday, Dec. 20 - which leads into the holiday break, with their next action not until Jan. 9.

Red Deer dominated the opening frame, scoring twice in the space of nine seconds with less than two minutes gone in the game, before making it 3-0 on a goal with only 18 seconds to spare in the first.

The frustration level of the Stampeders continue to rise until it boiled over about six minutes into the middle stanza, culminating in a pair of fights along with the ejection of Ponoka head coach Tyler Fiveland - who was a little too outwardly expressive and sarcastic for the refer-

Jaden Sandin, of the Broncs boys’ basketball team, takes a shot under heavy pressure from the Barrhead Gryphons players Friday, Dec. 11 on the first day of the Broncs’ Pump tournament.

The Broncs placed third winning the bronze.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye ee’s liking following a call against the Stampeders near the midpoint of the contest.

In total, the second period saw both teams receive 82 minutes in penalties and no goals.

Ponoka did get on board near the seven minute mark of the third as Kwyn Hiebert’s shot found its way past the Red Deer goalie, but that would be all the Stampeders could muster.

Fiveland is hoping to use the long break to bring some recent additions up to speed on systems and work the rest of the squad hard on being more offensive-minded.

He explained that they need to take a lot more shots as well as work diligently on making their powerplay more efficient.

Cunnington sets paralympic world record

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Tammy Cunnington is making waves again after setting a new world record in the United States during a Paralympics Swimming competition.

She brought down the world record for the women’s S4 50m butterfly event during the open swim held Thursday Dec. 10 to 12 in Bismarck, ND with a final time of 56.14, surpassing Sweden’s Sandra Erikson’s 2004 record of 56.36.

Cunnington said the weekend went well after she broke a personal record in the event the morning of the finals race. She said she also set a Canadian record in the 100m freestyle with a time of 1:54.55.

Cunnington was originally from Ponoka and now lives in Red Deer where she swims with the Red Deer Catalina Swim Club. She is on the road to Rio De Janeiro for the 2016 Paralympics. Tryouts start in April.

We Can Restore

Your Smile Call for an appointment TODAY

CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS

403-790-2700

Business Hours: Bay #2, 5012 48 Ave. Mon. to Thurs. 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (located next to Ponoka Dental Centre)

Janice K. Cameron, DD Denturist / Owner

Ponoka Office: 403-783-3315 Bashaw Office (Tues): 780-372-3627 Wetaskiwin Office (Mon & Thurs): 780-352-6488

SERVICES OFFERED • Personal & Corporate Income Tax Planning • Tax Return Preparation • Accounting & Audit Services• Estate Planning • Business Advisory Service• Government Program Assistance

26 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

Peewee teams enjoy fun home tournament

Player Max Underhill, of the Quality Paint and Collision Peewee B hockey team, takes a shot on goal Friday, Dec. 11 during their first game of a weekend tourney. They and the Ponoka Elks Peewee A team hosted a tourney over the weekend.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Thank You

The Pee Wee A Elks and the Pee Wee B Quality Paint & Collision wish to thank the following sponsors for their tremendous support. Without the support of these great sponsors our tournament could not have been a success.

We truly appreciate their support.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

7-11 Convenience Andy’s Barber Shop Arbonne - Carlie Kroening Banana Bits Barry Buss Pilot Hauling Barry Scrub Big Country Bill’s Oilfield Black Opal Energy Services Boston Pizza Bretts Bodacious Beads Bruce’s Tru Value BTK Motorsports Canadian Tire Capitol Theatre Cathedral Energy Services - EJI Energy Consulting Central Vet Coach’s Source for Sports Crawford Agencies Cutting Edge Hair Design D & M Concrete Darcy’s Drilling Double Star Drilling Edmonton Oilers Flowers for You Hamilton’s IGA Harbin Welding Independent Electric Controls Integra Tire JAX Steakhouse

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

John’s Place Jones Boys Julie’s Travel Justin McPherson - Black Oval Energy Services Lambourne Enviromental MacKenzie’s No Frills McDonalds Montana Minor Sports Nailed It By Shane Lee Nicola Hoag OK Tire Old Iron Horse Perry’s 2 for 1 Pizza Pizza D’Oro Pizza Hut Platinum Insurance Ponoka Bottle Depot Ponoka Coin Wash Ponoka Husky Ponoka News Ponoka New & Used Pretty Quick Mobile Spa Remax - Todd Reed Renegade Sheet Metal and Eaves Rexall Drug Mart Royal Bank Ponoka Scentsy - Stacey Bruns Scentsy - Melissa Marois Scizzor Wizard

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Scott & Wendy Bresee Shoppers Drug Mart South Hill Designs Spelrem Automotive Stampede Pawn Shop Strand Media Sylvan Lake Hockey School Tangles Hair Design The Brick Thirsk Automotive Thirty-One Gifts Tremor Walper - Cathedral Energy Services EJI Consulting Twilight Bat Control Vantage Physio & Accupuncture Clinic VJV Auction Mart Walmart Wetaskiwin OK Tire Wild Side Tattoos WPW Inc.

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Despite losing all three of their home games, both of Ponoka’s Peewee hockey teams had a fun weekend.

Their home tournament started Friday, Dec. 11 and ended on the Sunday with a food drive for the Ponoka Food Bank as part of the weekend activities.

The Ponoka Elks Peewee A team did not win any games, said coach Jeff Jones, who was impressed with the teams who took part.

“We invited a high calibre of competition and even though we lost three games, the team played well and worked very hard as a group.”

He said the Elks improved

on their forecheck and started working well as a team.

Coaches are going to work on several key skills such as skating, puck handling and intensity on the ice.

“They need to be able to play at a high intensity for 60 minutes,” said Jones.

Despite those challenges, he was impressed with their overall improvement over the weekend, especially with tough teams against them.

For the Ponoka Quality Paint and Collision Peewee B team, the results were the same. Coach Ryan Smith said despite these losses, coaches worked to keep players’ confidence up. He added that at the end of the day, the goal is for the kids to have a fun weekend.

While there were some challenges, their second game against Vegreville was a close 4-3 loss. “They played their hearts out,” said Smith.

With those losses come improvements and Smith suggests they will be a better team for it.

“They came together as a team I think compared to the whole year,” said Smith.

The entire coaching staff thanked parents for their dedication to the tournament. As for the food bank donations the idea came about because of the time of year and for the need. Over the weekend, a net was set aside for teams to fill it up with food. The “Stuff a Net to End Hunger” idea came from Wendy Jacklin.

Broncs take bronze continued from page 25 That momentum stayed till the end of the game with the Broncs defeating the Gryphons 74-64.

The Bronze medal game was against Onoway, which proved to be a physical and mental challenge. Both teams had three players fouled out, with two of Ponoka’s starters on that list.

Johnson had to bring up his younger players and they rose to the challenge.

“We were down by 11 to start the fourth quarter.”

Players faced personal frustration with referees’ calls and it showed. Johnson said some were overly vocal with officials and it

hurt the team. Johnson’s goal was to finish strong and he guided players through the game. He credits Grade 12 players Cory Fillinger and Nils Simmons with strong leadership.

“They answered the bell … The rest of the guys couldn’t help but follow,” said Johnson.

Simmons managed eight points in the fourth quarter and Cory managed 16 points in the fourth quarter. Evret also managed a four-point play after sinking a three-pointer and drawing a foul. He capitalized on the foul and scored, which boosted the team’s confidence eventually earning them the win.

“When the final buzzer went it was just complete joy,” said Johnson.

PONOKA NEWS 27

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

County REACH OVER 217,000 READERS With one of these great deals!

6 PACK 8 PACK

ADPACK ALL IN 1

CLASSIFIEDS CALL TOLL FREE:

1-877-223-3311

announcements Obituaries

Obituaries

MILLAR The family of Cheryl Lynn Millar deeply regret the sudden passing of her on Nov 13, 2015 at her home in Rimbey at the age of 50 years. Cheryl will be lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her husband Lee Steeves and their son Doug (Brianne) and their children Sierra and Macy; by her father Charles Millar; her brothers David and Delton and their families, as well as her sisters; Linda, Evelyn, Tammy and their families. A service in celebration of Cheryl’s life will be held on Dec. 19, 2015 at the Ponoka Elks Hall at 2:00 pm @ 5901 hwy 2A.

Mackenzie Colin Scarth May, 26 1954 Edinburgh, Scotland December 10, 2015Edmonton, Alberta It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Colin Mackenzie, beloved husband of Patsy, on Thursday December 10, 2015.

Colin immigrated to Canada in 1975, and met his true love, Patsy, in Saskatoon. Their 35 year marriage was the envy of all their friends. Colin was the best father, always looking out for his boys. After many years in the retail industry, he and Patsy opened “Mackenzie’s No Frills” in Ponoka in 2013 where he quickly became a valued member of the community and will be deeply missed.

Colin was a selfless man to the very end, saving the lives of others by becoming an organ donor.

He is survived by his sons, Scott (Megan) and Thomas, grandchildren Josh, Chace, Jax, and his brother, Lyndsay. He will also be missed by his nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters-in law in Canada and Scotland. He was predeceased by his parents, George and Janet Mackenzie and his in-laws, Victor and Maria Puim. Hope Rod is pouring you the good scotch in heaven!

A special thanks to Dr. Peter Brindley and the staff in the neuro-ICU at University of Alberta Hospital for their exceptional care. Thank you also to family and friends for all of your prayers and support.

Memorial service will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive S.W. Calgary, AB) on Wednesday, December 16, 2015 at 10:00 a.m.

Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Ponoka Boys and Girls Club, Phone number# 1-844-477-7272, donate@bgccan.com or the Canadian Children’s Brain Cancer Foundation, http://ccbcf.org/donate/ In living memory of Colin Mackenzie, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Park Memorial, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Calgary, AB, T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

In Memoriam

HUMPHREYS Glyn June 29, 1936 - December 7, 2015 Glyn, 79, passed away suddenly in Palm Springs. He leaves to mourn his wife of 58 years, Henrietta, their three children and families: Vicki and Quinn Leder (Josina and Hannah), Brad and Terri, Cathie Sexton (Aja, Brandon and Dylan) and great-grandson, Levi. Glyn was predeceased by his son-in-law Rick Sexton in June 2015.

A graveside service will be held at Zion United Church Cemetery at 10 a.m. on Friday, December 18, 2015.

Funeral services will be held at Park Memorial, 9709 111 Avenue, Edmonton at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 18, 2015.

MORROW Maxine Dianne Maxine Morrow, born February 7, 1948 to Orlene and Edwin Morrow in Peterborough, ON passed away on Tuesday, December 8, 2015 in Red Deer, AB. Max has left the world a better place by giving it Karen MorrowJantz, Colleen Tysoe, Rick Jantz, Kristen, Jamie and Graham. At Max’s request, there will be no Funeral or Memorial Service. Instead, please consider adopting a fur friend from the SPCA, planting flowers, sharing a diet Coke with the people you love and celebrating the beautiful moments in each day. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.myalternatives.ca.

In Memory of Alex J. M. Williamson

May 1, 1934 - December 12, 2014

A year has passed since that sad day When you were called away Everyday in some small way Memories of you come our way.

Though absent, you are ever near Still missed, loved, always dear Lovingly remembered, Audrey, Wes and Katherine, Sandra and Martyn MacGregar and Aidan

Card Of Thanks

THE family of

BOB ROSS wishes to thank all those who helped us in any way through Bob’s illness - for the cards and flowers sent to his “Celebration of Life” on November 14th and to all those who attended. A very special thanks to Dr. Chan and the Nursing Staff at the Goal for all the kind love and care given to Bob while in hospital - you’re a great team.

Thanks to Flowers for You for your gorgeous arrangements which brightened the day and to Bob Ronnie for catering. Many thanks to Sheila and the Ponoka Funeral Home for their kindness in making arrangements as well as to Charlotte Boychuk and Dick Cameron for their music. It was a great afternoon Bob would have loved it!

The Ross Family - Doreen, Mary, Blake, Nancy & Families

McGILL Stanley On December 7, 2015 Mr. Stanley James McGill of Ponoka passed away at the age of 92 years. Stan will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 69 years, Vera; daughter Dianna (Wes) Allan of Ponoka, grandson Kenneth (Jade), granddaughter Jessica (Luke) and great-grandson Jacob; son Gerald (Sandra) McGill of Camrose and grandson Warren; daughter-in-law Kathy McGill of Winnipeg, grandson Linton (Jessica) and great-granddaughters Isla and Freya, grandson Darren (Meghan) and greatgranddaughter Marlowe, and granddaughter Cynthia.

Stan was predeceased by his son Stewart; grandson Geoffrey; brother Ray; and sister Vi. A Funeral Service was held at the Ponoka Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 12, 2015. Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to the Alberta Heart and Stroke Foundation. To express condolences to Stan’s family, please visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements Entrusted To PONOKA FUNERAL HOME ~ A WOMBOLD FAMILY FUNERAL HOME ~

W

hether it happened Yesterday or Today, Whatever you want to say, To celebrate your special day...

~ Say it with a classified

ANNOUNCEMENT 1-877-223-3311 309-3300

Email: classifieds@reddeeradvocate.com

28 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

52

Coming Events

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

Coming Events

52

THE LLOYDMINSTER EXHIBITIONS Pride of the Prairies Bull Show and Sale. March 6 - 7, 2016.

Traditional halter and pen format. Entry deadline: January 5, 2016. For more information: www.lloydexh.com. 306-825-5571 or email Sam: sam@ lloydexh.com.

GET MORE COVERAGE WITH YOUR AD

JUST ASK FOR THE

CLASSIFIED N.W. BUY • • • • • •

Ponoka Rimbey Eckville Sylvan Lake Lacombe Pipestone Flyer

52

Coming Events

52

Coming Events

Starting at 25 words for $45.90 Call toll free 1-877-223-3311 or Local 403-309-3300

54

Lost

CLASSIFIEDS Christmas & New Years Hours & Deadlines

GET MORE COVERAGE WITH YOUR AD

Office & Phones CLOSED Friday, December 25, 2015 and Friday, January 1, 2016

JUST ASK FOR THE

CLASSIFIED N.E. BUY • • • • • • •

PONOKA NEWS Publication date: December 23, 2015 Deadline: December 17, 2015 @ 5 pm Publication date: December 30, 2015 Deadline: December 23, 2015 @ 12 noon

Ponoka News Stettler Independent Bashaw Star Castor Advance Weekender Lacombe Express Pipestone Flyer

Starting at 25 words for $53.55 Call toll free 1-877-223-3311 or Local 403-309-3300

BASHAW Publication date: December 23, 2015 Deadline: December 17, 2015 @ 12 noon Publication date: December 30, 2015 Deadline: December 23, 2015 @ 12 noon CALL CLASSIFIEDS 403-309-3300 classifieds@ponokanews.com

Training for life First Aid Training teaches how to respond confidently when injuries occur.

Coming Events

52

AWNA’s Annual Symposium

$5000 REWARD leading up to or for the finding of 14 missing simmental cows and 13 calves. Cows have a brand of TLX on the left rib and also possibly a brand of PG (‘G’ is backwards) on the left rib. Calves are probably unbranded. Went missing in Alliance/Sedgewick area. Phone 780-386-3745 or 780-888-1258.

790

Medical

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career!

Employers have work-athome positions available.

Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-athome career today!

MEDICAL TRAINEES needed now! Hospitals & doctor’s offices need certified medical office & administrative staff! No experience needed! We can get you trained! Local job placement assistance available when training is completed. Call for program details!

1-888-627-0297.

Restaurant/ Hotel

820

Restaurant/ Hotel

820

ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING

has immediate openings for permanent full time and part time

FOOD SERVICE SUPERVISORS

for all shifts between 6:30 AM and 10 PM. Duties include supervise and coordinate activities of staff who prepare and portion food, train new staff, establish work schedules, order food and supplies, maintain records of stock, sales, repairs, wastage, ensure food quality and control. Must be friendly, reliable, and a team player. The ability to work under pressure in a fast paced environment is necessary. High School Diploma, Food Safety Certificate, and at least one year experience in the food service industry is required. Must be able to work days, evenings, weekends. Starting wage $13.75/hr with benefit package available.

Apply in person at 4930 - 50 Avenue Bentley between 6:30 AM and 9 PM, or by email to boroneilson@gmail.com

JANUARY START BVT TRUCK AND TRAILER REPAIR

to join our team in Red Deer for our Evening Shift, Monday- Friday, 2:30 pm-11:00 pm. To join our team, please submit your resume to hr@slt.ca

Business Opportunities

60

Diabetes Online Survey Reaching out to Canadians living with diabetes The Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) and researchers from St. Michael’s Hospital are looking for people living with diabetes (type 1, type 2, gestational and prediabetes) and caregivers to participant in an12345 online survey.

Your participation with help the CDA and researchers learn about your experience with diabetes. All responses will be confidential and will help inform the development of tools and resources for people living with diabetes.

Each participant will be entered for a chance to win $100 cash (1 in 30 odds of winning).

Complete the short survey by visiting: http://fluidsurveys.com/s/cda2015/

870

GET FREE VENDING machines. Can earn $100,000. + per year. All cash-locations provided.

Protected territories. Interest free financing. Full details. Call now 1-866-668-6629. Website: www.tcvend.com.

GREAT CANADIAN Dollar Store franchise opportunities are available in your area. Explore your future with a dollar store leader.

Call today 1-877-388-0123 ext. 229; www.dollarstores.com.

• • • • • • •

Rimbey Caroline Sylvan Lake Innisfail Stettler Ponoka Lacombe

Gov’t of Alberta Funding may be available.

403-340-1930 www.academicexpress.ca WATKIN MOTORS FORD, Vernon, BC immediately requires an experienced Ford Diesel Technician.

Go to: watkinmotors.com, About us, Employment, to review required qualifications.

EASY!

The easy way to find a buyer for items you want to sell is with a Classified want ad. Phone 1-877-2233311

870

Place your ad in this newspaper and12345 province wide $

ALATEEN

Weekly meetings Tuesdays @ 8 p.m.

Neighborhood Place 5110 - 49 Ave. Ponoka For more info.

403-783-4557 or 403-783-8371 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Monday night meetings at the Anglican Church Ponoka 8:30 p.m. Phone 403-783-0719 for info.

THURSDAY AA Meetings at 8:30 p.m. in the Catholic Church basement.

52 Street & 52 Ave. Ponoka.

403-783-4347 403-783-3442

Employment #700 - #920

Full course descriptions online

Personals

Would you like to take the

Journeymen Heavy GED in your community?

Duty Truck & Trailer • Red Deer Mechanic • Rocky Mtn. House

Squeeze MOST out of your advertising dollars

Internationally Acclaimed Speakers

www.awna.com/symposium

GED Preparation

is looking for a

with a combined circulation of over 800,000 for only...

Farm Work

755

F/T PEN CHECKER

for general feedlot duties for large expanding feedlot in Sundre. Experience necessary. Fax resume to 403-638-3908, or call 403-638-4165, or email dthengs@hotmail.com

+

A Star Makes Your Ad A Winner!

CALL:

1-877-223-3311 To Place Your Ad Now!

995 plus GST/HST

Value Ad Network

Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x228 email andrea@awna.com or visit this community newspaper

Professionals

810

Northcott Care Centre is currently seeking a caring and motivated

Best Practice Nursing Leader Qualifications and skills include: • Must be a graduate of an accredited nursing program with current CARNA registration.

Advertising • Page Design Sales • Creative Cloud Software Journalism • Photography

880

Misc.

Help

ACADEMIC Express

BENTLEY SUBWAY

Cameron Bay Holdings Inc. o/a McDonalds’s in Ponoka and Red Deer (Gasoline Alley East and West) is now hiring full time and part time Food Service Supervisors.

Wages are between $13.95 to $16.00 per hour, depending upon experience and qualifications. Classifieds...costs so little Candidates must be able Saves you so much! to work a variety of shifts and have 3 to 5 years previous experience. Must be Business Meetings able to supervisor up to 20 Opportunities AL-ANON WEEKLY MEETING crew. Part-time applications will be accepted from FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF ALCOHOLICS. Canadians and Permanent Residents. Apply in person Tuesdays 8 p.m.

4419 Hwy 2A, Ponoka, Neighborhood Place 37479 Hwy 2, Red Deer, the 5110 - 49 Ave., Ponoka For more info 403-783-4557 and 37428 Hwy 2, Red Deer or email resume to cbay22@telus.net or fax to 403-783-4251.

59

850

Trades

• Experience in the area of nursing management and long term care would be an asset.

• Ability to work both independently and as a team in a multi-disciplinary environment.

• Excellent leadership, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.

• Visit www.qualicarehealthservices.com for more details.

CE

NT

RE

Part-time permanent position (32 hrs weeknegotiable).

Competitive wage, travel allowance, flexible hours, health and dental benefits, RRSP program and a positive working environment!

Located on the east side of Ponoka, overlooking the scenic Battle River Valley, Northcott Care Centre is a 73 bed nursing home committed to providing quality care to our residents. We would appreciate the opportunity to discuss your employment future.

If you are interested in starting a new and rewarding career, please fax your resume to: 403-783-6420 or call 403-783-4764, Email: tserle@northcottcarecentre.com Website: www.qualicarehealthservices.com

PONOKA NEWS 29

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

AG EQUIPMENT

880

Misc.

Help

STA M P E D E

is now

HIRING

Rimbey Implements Ltd.

P/T and

Al York

General Manager Cell: (403) 783-0593

F/T cashiers

Bus: (403) 843-3700

Rimbey, AB

Fax: (403) 843-3430

ANIMAL SERVICES

Employment Training

900

HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION Specialists in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Contact us now to start your training day; www.canscribe.com.

1-800-466-1535; info@canscribe.com.

Reached a Milestone?

Share It! 1.877.223.3311

Please drop off resumes in person or fax 403-783-8273 Employment Training

CONCRETE SERVICES

WETASKIWIN READY MIX •

900

A & J AUTOMOTIVE A & J AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR 6701 - 46 Ave. 6701 46 Ave. Ponoka, AB - T4J 1J8 Ponoka, T4J 1J8 (403)AB783-8755 (403) 783-8755 Al Dickhaut Owner/Operator Al Dickhaut Owner/Operator

This space could be yours for $

30

PER WEEK

Call 403-783-3311

1530

UPCOMING SALES Wednesdays @ 6 pm.

Dec. 2, 9, & 16 at The Moose Hall, 2 miles south of Ponoka on Hwy. 2A ~~~~~ TO BOOK YOUR SALE CALL 403-782-5693 Check website for full listings

880

Residential Commercial • Agricultural

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

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

BIG STRAPPER AUCTIONS

•

OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY Ph: 587-786-3142 780-352-4301 dmarkevich@wrmconcrete.com

Buy & Sell #1500 - #1990

Auctions

JOURNALISTS, Graphic Artists, Marketing and more. Alberta’s weekly newspapers are looking for people like you. Post your resume online. Free.

Visit: awna.com/ for-job-seekers.

Misc.

Help

Firewood

www.bigstrapperauctions.net

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

Misc. for Sale

MEIER GUN AUCTION. Saturday, December 19, 11 a.m., 6016 - 72A Ave., Edmonton. Over 150 guns - handguns, rifles, shotguns, hunting and sporting equipment. To consign 780-440-1860.

EquipmentMisc.

1620

A-CHEAP, lowest prices, steel shipping containers.

Used 20’ & 40’ Seacans insulated & 40’ freezers, Special $2200 Wanted: Professional wood carver needed. 1-866-528-7108; www.rtccontainer.com.

1760

1660

LOGS Semi loads of pine, spruce, tamarack, poplar, birch.

Price depends on location of delivery. Lil Mule Logging 403-318-4346

Customizable and secure. From storage to workspace.

Steel containers from 8' - 53'. 20' & 40' skids with optional 4' landings available. Mount with twist locks.

780 440 4037 | SEACAN.COM

SHANDALL PLUMBING LTD. JAMES AVERY “Reasonable rates on all your plumbing needs” Gas Fitting - Home Renovations - Drain Cleaning -24 HOUR SERVICE-

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

Horses

2140

5306 - 60 ST, PONOKA, AB T4J 1K7 PH: (403) 783-6372 • FAX (403) 783-6345

BOBCAT SERVICES Sur-B Enterprises Ltd.

BOBCAT SERVICE • Snow Removal • Driveways & Parking Lots • Post-Hole Augering - 6, 9, 12, 15 • Corral Cleaning • Grading & Construction Call Jim Ashbough 403-783-2764 or Cell: 587-729-0092 Call Jim Ashbough 783-2764 or Cell: 588-0599 Jack Surbey 783-5283 Cell: 588-0597

OVERHEAD DOORS

WE BUY HORSES: broke, un-broke, or unwanted.

Jerry Dodds 403-783-0303

Grain, Feed Hay

2190

HAY FOR SALE

First & second cut No rain. Good for horse feed. Can pick up or will deliver.

403-704-0158 ROUND BALES Alfalfa, Timothy, Brome mix

No rain, 1100-1200 lbs.

$110/bale Usona area 403-783-5985

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.

Gerald & Tina Owners

#4, 3616 67 St. Ponoka, AB www.doorsondemand.ca

403-783-2454

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST

30

$

PER WEEK.

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.

BOTTLE DEPOT

PONOKA BOTTLE DEPOT Open Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm

WANTED. Hannas Seeds seeking distributors for forage, turf, native and reclamation seed. Good commissions. Contact Esther at 1-800-661-1529 or esther.stigter@ hannasseeds.com.

AN EXCELLENT CHOICE WHERE YOUR AD REACHES RURAL READERS

12345

PLUMBING

CALL 1-877-223-3311 CLASSIFIEDS HOT-LINE WHATEVER YOU’RE SELLING...

WE HAVE THE PAPER YOU NEED!

Closed Sundays & Holidays We Now Recycle Milk Cartons for Deposit

3, 5520 Hwy 2A (Across from Husky)

403-783-6875 SALES & SERVICE

Motorcycles & ATV’s Tues - Fri: 8:30 am-5:30 pm Saturday: 9 am-3 pm

403-783-5185 1-800-662-7135 Fax: 403-783-4635

30 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

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

Business and Services Directory TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS OR SERVICE HERE CALL CLASSIFIEDS Misc.

Services

DENTAL CLINIC 403-783-5225

5118 - 51 Ave., Ponoka, AB T4J 1R5

www.birchlanddental.ca • DR. RICK BARR • DR. STELIAN LISMAN

- General Dentistry - Orthodontics - Cosmetic Dentistry - Bonding - Veneers - Bleaching - White or Gold Fillings - Crown and Bridge - Implant Restorations “WE ENTHUSIASTICALLY WELCOME NEW PATIENTS”

EYE CARE

Business Services #1000 - #1430

Antique Dealers and Stores

WWW.4YOUREYESONLY.CA

-

•

5120-51ST AVE, PONOKA

ADVANCED EYE HEALTH & VISION EXAMS CONSULTATION & REFERRAL SERVICES DESIGNER EYE WEAR & CONTACT LENSES INSURED MEDICAL EYECARE SERVICES NOW AVAILABLE FOR ALL AGES

NEW PATIENTS ALWAYS WELCOME

OFFICE HOURS: Monday - Friday 8AM - 12:30PM • 1PM - 5PM

1027

OLD COUNTRY ROSE ANTIQUES NOW OPEN Tues. - Sat. 10-5. Quality antiques, collectibles and vintage items. 5057-50 Ave. Rimbey, AB.

Drs. Heimdahl, ZoBell & Kallal 403-783-5575 1-800-662-7168

Cleaning

1070

THE PROFESSIONAL HOME CLEANERS

30

PER WEEK

Call 403-783-3311 HEATING

“Committed to your comfort”

Robin Esau

Ph: 403-782-7722 Fax: 403-782-7499

robin@KlesAir.com www.KlesMechanical.com

Advertise your business in the Business Directory!

1290

We Make It Clean

1315

Legal Services

1260

CRIMINAL RECORD? Think: Canadian pardon.

U.S. travel waiver.

Divorce? Simple.

Fast. Inexpensive. Debt recovery? Alberta collection to $25,000.

Calgary 403-228-1300/ 1-800-347-2540.

Misc.

Services

1290

Rental Misc

1350

Need RV or Self Storage?

8’ X 10’ mini storage units available for rent.

Also RV storage.

Secure compound.

Call Keith at

1370

Be sure to call

Heather Goodwin 403-704-3647 heathermccg@shaw.ca

Call Jhenn at

403-704-9766

1310

Our Hostess Personal will bring gifts Services First Call Towing and greetings, Unplanned pregnancy may be along with 783-3636 difficult to face. helpful We care. For confi dential help call Roofing community 403-343-1611 (24 hrs.)

METAL ROOFING & SIDinformation.

403-786-9987

Cleaning Services

Painters/ Decorators

F.J.B. PAINTING NEW TO INT • EXT RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL YOUR 403-307-4691 COMMUNITY fjbpainting@hotmail.com Quality First Always • Free Quotes ?

Weekly – Bi-weekly Reliable – Bondable

Papa’s Little Helpers

This space could be yours for $

For Rent #3000 - #3200

EASY ALBERTA DIVORCE: Free consultation call 1-800-320-2477 or www.canadianlegal.org CCA Award #1 Paralegal.

A+ BBB Reputation. 26 years experience.

Open Mon. - Sat. REACH OVER 1 Million Readers Weekly. Advertise Province Wide Classifieds.

Only $269 + GST (based on 25 words or less). Call now for details 1-800-282-6903 ext. 228; www.awna.com.

Misc.

Services

1290

Used appliances available Six month warranty

Berni's Refrigeration and Appliance Service We deliver and install your purchases.

CANADA BENEFIT GROUP. Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000. from the Canadian Government.

Toll free 1-888-511-2250 or www.canadabenefit. ca/free-assessment.

ING. 32+ colours available at over 55 Distributors. 40 year warranty. 48 hour Express Service available at select supporting Distributors. Call 1-888-263-8254.

HIP OR KNEE Replacement? Arthritic conditions? Restrictions in walking/dressing?

Disability Tax Credit. $2,000 tax credit. $20,000 refund. For Assistance: 1-844-453-5372.

Welding

1410

today

Welding

1410

DO YOU WANT YOUR AD TO BE READ BY 100,000 Potential Buyers???

TRY

Classified Advertising SERVING CENTRAL ALBERTA RURAL REGION

CALL 1-877-223-3311 Welding

1410

* Quality Boarding for your dogs & cats *Proof of vaccinations and advance bookings required

• B-PRESSURE • PIPELINE • OILFIELD • ASME Section VIII Division I VESSEL FABRICATION & PIPING • SHOP/PORTABLE • CNC PLASMA CUTTING • ALUMINUM • SHEARING & FORMING

FAX: (403) 783-8178

403-783-6272

Tell them Danny Hooper sent you

HOUSE FOR RENT

4 B/R, 2 Bath home for rent in Riverside w/ double garage & large backyard. $1,500 + utilities, Security deposit $1,500.00. May consider small pets.

5004 56 Ave, Ponoka

Website: www.harbinwelding.com E-mail: bharbin@telus.net

www.clinkerskennels.ca

Need a

3020

CALL 403-588-0597

MAIN: (403) 783-7591

1400

Houses/ Duplexes

2 bdrm house with single car garage $850/mnth plus D.D. N/S, N/P

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.

Well Drilling

Acreages/Farms ..............3255 Houses/Duplexes ............3260 Suites ..............................3270 Rooms..............................3280 Manufactured Homes ......3290 Housesitting Wanted ........3300 Garage Space..................3310 Storage Space ................3320 Stores/Commercial ..........3330 Office Space ....................3340 Industrial ..........................3350 Warehouse Space............3360 Resorts & Cottages..........3370 Pasture/Land....................3380 Mobile Lot ........................3390

AVAILABLE JANUARY 1

1318

CLINKERS KENNELS

Wanted to Rent #3250 - #3390

Call 403-704-3152

IS someone’s drinking causing you problems?

AL-ANON 403-346-0320

Pet Services

Acreages/Farms ..............3010 Houses/Duplexes ............3020 Condos/Townhouses........3030 Manufactured Homes ......3040 Four Plexes/Six Plexes ....3050 Suites ..............................3060 Cottages/Seasonal ..........3070 Roommates Wanted ........3080 Rooms for Rent................3090 Motels/Hotels ..................3100 Offices ..............................3110 Stores/Commercial ..........3120 Industrial ..........................3130 Warehouse Space............3140 Garage Space..................3150 Storage Space ................3160 Land ................................3170 Pasture ............................3180 Mobile Lot ........................3190 Misc. for Rent ..................3200

Well Drilling

1400

Well Drilling

WATER WELL

1400

but are short of cash??

Check status of 3 government grants/assistance worth up to $5000 or more EACH and CHECK BIG IRON’S $5000 WINTER DISCOUNT PACKAGE

12345 RURAL WATER TREATMENT (Province Wide) Iron Filters • Softeners • Reverse Osmosis • “Kontinuous ShoK” Chlorinator Time Payment Plan O.A.C. for water wells and water treatment

1-800-BIG IRON (244-4766) View our 29 patented and patent pending inventions online at www.1800bigiron.com

403-783-4880

Big Iron drills all winter long* P.S. We also drill for people who aren’t short of cash

*check rig availability in your area

3 BDRM. DUPLEX IN PONOKA, large kitchen, dining and livingroom 4 appls., rent + utils. Avail.

Dec. 15. 403-783-3860 PONOKA NEWER 3 bdrm. townhouse, 6 appl., 3 bath, $1,295/mo.

Phone 403-704-1221 PONOKA, Duplex avail.

Jan. 1. 3 bedroom. $950. rent/dd, no pets, 4 appls. + drapes. 403-346-3943 or 403-358-9179

Condos/ Townhouses

3030

New Blackfalds Condo. 2 Bdrm/2 Bath. Main floor & 2nd floor options avail. 2 powered parking stalls.

Rent $1,400. Pets negotiable. Ask about rent incentives. 403-396-1688.

Suites

3060

HARVEST MANOR

1 bdrm, 2 bdrm & bachelor studio Working individual

403-704-3327 403-870-3899

PONOKA NEWS 31

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015 HEATING & EAVESTROUGHING

Suites

3060

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY

Commercial - Residential Installations - Repair

3912 - 66 St, Ponoka www.wcmltd.ca

403.783.3501 wcmltd@telus.net

BOBCAT SERVICES PONOKA BOBCAT SERVICE A division of 1127730 Alberta Ltd.

NO JOB TOO SMALL!

SNOW PLOWING & CLEARING

WCB • Insured • Licensed

Bachelor suite $600/mnth including utilities 403-790-6011

Available Immediately 1 bdrm suite utilities incl.

403-790-6011 Downtown Ponoka One bdrm Apartment No Smoking No Pets

4090

Manufactured Homes

HARVEST SALE! Save $50,000 from the replacement cost of this 20 X 76 drywalled Grandeur Showhome that has to go! A sacrifice at $124,900. Call Terry 1-855-347-0417 or email: terry@ grandviewmodular.com.

Buildings For Sale

4150

LOOKING FOR a shop?

Post Frame Buildings.

AFAB Industries has experience, expertise, reliability and great construction practices. For a free quote, contact Ryan Smith 403-818-0797 or email: ryan.afab@gmail.com.

403-357-0654

Locally owned/operated

CALL BRIAN HEBERT

403-506-3377

VETERINARY SERVICES

Bovine Veterinary Services

2 BDRM bsmt. suite in PONOKA incld’s util’s, washer/dryer, no pets, non Financial partier, N/S. Long term #4400 - #4430 working tenants and sen- Investments ......................4410 iors welcome.

Avail Money Wanted ................4420 immed. 403-704-1645 Money to Loan ................4430

On-Farm Mobile Veterinary Services Ultrasound-aided ReproducƟve Programs CETA CerƟĮed Dairy and Beef Embryo Transfer Herd Health

PONOKA 2 bdrm. well maintained quiet adult building, no pets $825/mo. + power, heat/water incld. immed.

Brian avail.

403-348-6594

Phone 403-391-1684 ʹͶ

Dr. Bruce Wine

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST

30

$

PER WEEK.

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.

* RIVERSIDE APTS. * Newly renovated 1 & 2 bedroom units in Ponoka: 3724-45 Street.

403-357-0287

Pasture

3180

PASTURE & HAY LAND. 400 - 8000 acres of year round water supply. Full operational with management available. Central Saskatchewan. Crossfenced & complete infrastructure. Natural springs excellent water.

Shortly ready to locate cattle. Other small & large grain & pasture quarters. $150k - $2.6m. Call Doug Rue 306-716-2671.

VETERINARY SERVICES

Real Estate #4000 - #4190

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. Kelly Loree • Dr. Leighton Coma • Dr. Trevor Hook • Dr. Jasmine Hardy • Dr. Candace Wenzel

Reaching 6000 households weekly

Realtors & Services..........4010 Houses for Sale................4020 Houses Wanted ................4030 Condos/Townhouses ........4040 Acreages ..........................4050 Acreages Wanted ............4060 Farms/Land ......................4070 Farms/Land Wanted ........4080 Manufactured/ Mobile Homes ..................4090 Income Property ..............4100 Commercial Property ......4110 Industrial Property ............4120 Cottages/Resort Property ..4130 Businesses for Sale..........4140 Buildings for Sale ............4150 Lots for Sale ....................4160 Out of Town Property ......4170 Investment Opportunities ..4180 Mortgages Bought/Sold....4190

For just

$30 per week this space could be yours!

403-783-3311

Condos/ Townhouses

4040

Need to Downsize? Brand New Valley Crossing Condos in Blackfalds. Main floor is 1,119 SQ FT 2 Bdrm/2Bath. Imm. Poss.

Start at $219,900. Call 403-396-1688.

Money To Loan

4430

BANK SAID NO? Bank on us! Equity Mortgages for purchases, debt consolidation, foreclosures, renovations.

Bruised credit, self-employed, unemployed ok.

Dave Fitzpatrick: www.albertalending.ca.

587-437-8437, Belmor Mortgage.

Transportation #5000-5300

Automotive Services ........5010 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

Motorcycles

5080

WIN - 2016 Harley Davidson Dyna Wide Glide FXDWG103. 2nd $700/credit; 3rd $300/credit. Only 599 tickets printed. Three Early Bird Draws. $100/ticket. June 17 draw.

Proceeds to support Motorcycle & Harley Programs, GPRC Fairview Campus. 1-888-539-4772; www.gprc.ab.ca. License #421307.

Public Notice #6000

Public Notices ..................6010 Special Features ..............6050

DO YOUR

PART

RECYCLE

YOUR

PAPER!

WHAT CAN THE CLASSIFIEDS DO FOR YOU???

Coming Events Obituaries Memorials Pets Lost/Found Classes Vacation Homes Personals Fitness Arts/Crafts Realtors Babysitters Condos Volunteers Career Planning Legal Aid Tutors Oilfield Announcements Trades Vehicles Public Notices Rentals Acreages Motorcycles Business Opportunities Cottages Livestock Grain/Feed/Hay Tractors Pasture land Campers/RVs Extra Income Security Registrations Meetings Repairs Farmers Markets Trade Fairs Rodeos & MUCH MORE!

VETERINARY SERVICES

Ponoka Veterinary Clinic Dr. Murray • Murray Jacobson, DVM • Jacobson Clayton West, DVM Dr. Clayton West • Nicole Macdonald, DVM • Katie Graves, DVM 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

BOBCAT SERVICES

BRUCE’S BOBCAT

Snow Cleaning & Removal

403-783-0663 PLUMBING

PONOKA PLUMBING & HEATING • JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER REQUIRED We now carry a complete line of Ritchie Stockwater parts Hours of Business: Monday - Friday 7:30 8:00 am - 5 pm

5110 -50 Street Box 4414 Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1R7

JESSE ZINTER Office - 403-783-5489

WATER WELL DRILLING SERVICE

• Water wells drilled • Water wells serviced 403-783-2220 WEBSITE@DARCYSDRILLING.COM

WATER WELL SERVICE

ECKLUND

Water Well Service • Install & Service Pumps • Shock Wells • Pressure Systems Serviced & Installed Home: (403) 783-3712 Cell: (403) 704-3413

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST

30

$

PER WEEK.

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.

32 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015

OPEN

10 AM - 11 PM 7 Days A Week

Hammy’s SPIRITS CAROLANS IRISH CREAM LIQUOR 750 ML

19

$

MOTT’S CLAMATO CAESAR ORIGINAL OR EXTRA SPICY

99 EACH

LAMBS NAVY, PALM BREEZE OR WHITE RUM

341 ML / 6 CAN

$

1299

$

EACH

LA MARCA PROSECCO

13

$

99 EACH

3399

CUPCAKE ASSORTED VARIETIES

COPPER MOON ASSORTED VARIETIES

2/ 15

00

OR

7

$ 99

EACH

2/$2000

OR

1049

$

EACH

EACH

750 ML

2/ 15 $

00

OR

EACH

1.14 L

BAREFOOT BUBBLY PINK MOSCATO OR PINOT GRIGIO

750 ML

750 ML

750 ML

2399 $ 3499

EACH

EACH

EACH

$

99 EACH

1.14 L

355 ML / 18 BOTTLE

$

750 ML

22 $ 3399

$

MILLER GENUINE DRAFT

$

1999

J.P. WISER’S DELUXE CANADIAN WHISKY

SMIRNOFF VODKA

750 ML

750 ML

7

$ 99

EACH

YELLOW TAIL BUBBLES OR BUBBLES ROSE 750 ML

2/$2000

OR

1049

$

Bay #5, 4502 - 50th St. • 403-783-2333

Prices in effect Wednesday, December 16 to Tuesday, December 22, 2015 Prices do not include GST or deposit. We reserve the right to limit quantities

EACH

e v a H f l e s r u Yo y r r e M a e l t t Li

! s a m t s i r h C A supplement to

2 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Season’s Greetings

Memories of an old fashioned Christmas

BY MIKE RAINONE FOR THE NEWS I can’t really recall the first few years of my Christmases with Old Saint Nick back there in jolly old Surrey, England, where I was born, but among my most vivid memories of this glorious family holiday, that I will always love and still get a little giddy about, came after we moved to Ponoka, Alberta in the extremely cold winter of 1948. We didn’t have much money in those days, but everyone was so friendly and kind, and like so many others, I am sure that we will never forget our early years of stay at home and totally ‘old fashioned’ Christmases? *My mother used to spend days making her amazing festive fruit cake and pudding, and on the big day, dad would pour a little rum on the top, lit it on fire, and after it had cooled down, the taste was out of this

There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays!

There’s just no place we’d rather be, At Christmas than with all of thee; For your smiles and winning attitude Fill us with much gratitude; May many blessings come your way As we celebrate the holiday, And to all our friends both far and near, We hope to see you all next year!

continued on page 3

Happy Holidays and heartfelt thanks!

5026 51 Ave 403-783-2285 theraspberrypatch@platinum.ca www.theraspberrypatch.ab.ca

HOLIDAY HOURS: “Promoting Your Health”™

Dec. 24 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Dec. 25 CLOSED Dec. 31 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Jan. 1, 2016 CLOSED

403-783-7333 • After Hours: 403-783-0093 #20, 5011 48 Ave

world. There was also lots of baking going on, which was soon hidden for Christmas week and company, with only an occasional tiny nibble allowed. *In the exciting weeks before Christmas, we had to try to be especially good, did our daily chores, and had fun making our own decorations such as popcorn balls, colored paper streamers, pinecones and candles, while carefully taking out the colored bobbles, tinsel, angels, and festive artifacts that had been passed down through several family generations. One of the best traditional family adventures was packing up the hot chocolate and cookies on a Sunday afternoon and heading out into the country or to the Cubs/ Scout tree lot to find the ‘perfect tree’, then placing it into a pot of dirt in our cozy living room and decorating it after supper the same evening.

Our real joy of the season is the chance to put aside the routine of the daily business to wish you a Very Merry Christmas!

We truly appreciate your patronage.

403.346.5533 www.soderquist.ca appraisals@soderquist.ca

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 3

Season’s Greetings

Extending wishes for the merriest of Christmases continued from page 22 As in many homes, it was the youngest child who got hoisted up on pop’s shoulders to giggle and proudly place our special angel on the top of the tree. Everything had to be placed a little higher on the tree to escape the excited grasp of the little duffers and the pesky family cat, and we always had to watch out for the mistletoe. As kids, we were really proud of the unique gifts we had made in school for our family, which also included paper angels, Santa’s with cotton batten beards, and other neat decorations that could be hung on the tree, around the house, or on the frig. *We had to make up our ‘Christmas gift wish’ early in December (with a priority on which ONE present that we wanted most), and then later got to do a little shopping for our favourite folks and siblings, spending all of the allowance that we had saved for months, as well as begging for a little cash advance from our parents and grandparents. At the community stores, there was always music playing and lots of lights and laughter, and maybe, just maybe, we might get to sit on jolly old Santa’s knee. *During the busy last week before Christmas we were so proud to take part in the annual Christmas concert at the school or church, where our parents, friends, and neigh-

bours cheered as we nervously performed as Kings and sheppards and animals and even Angels, believe it or not, and then at the 3:30p.m. Bell we were let loose for 10 wonderful days of holidays, with lots of play-time, sleep-ins, stay up later nights, and absolutely no homework. *If the stress, excitement, and ‘visions of sugar plums’ over the holiday season got to be too much (for our parents), we got all bundled up and shuffled outside to play for hours on the crunchy snow, built snow forts, snow men and performed snow angels. Some other neat ways to wear off all that extra energy was by indulging in friendly neighbourhood snow ball fights, going skating on the out-door rink or river, or hiking over to the golf course or the nearest big hill for sleighing, tobogganing, and lots of crashes in the soft snow.

At night, we would all jump in the family car and drive around town and country looking at the amazing lights and decorations. The age old tradition of A-wassailing has always been a part of the Christmas lore, as hardy groups of all ages toured the community singing carols, and whether out of tune or not were usually rewarded with a hot cup of apple cider or other treats at each stop. *When Christmas Eve finally arrived we all headed off to church to

sing carols and celebrate the true meaning of the long-standing joyful festive occasion, and then all headed home to hang up our stockings and snuggle together in the living room in front of the fire or stove. Everyone loved to sip hot chocolate and egg-nog and nibble on short-bread cookies, daring to peek at or shake some of the gaily wrapped boxes under the tree, and then by 10:00 p.m. were hustled off to bed, making sure that a treat was left for the jolly old late night visitor from the north. *On Christmas morning then and now, most homes began to stir as soon as the youngest siblings were awake and realized the magic of the big day ahead. In our first home in Riverside, we were not allowed to get up until mom and dad arose, rushed down breakfast (which was usually porridge) and then sat quietly in the living room as the presents were handed out in the fair order of one for you and one for me. After cleaning up and putting away all of our treasures in our room, we were allowed to go outside and show off our new stuff to the neighbour kids, then came home and patiently sat around and sniffed the amazing aromas as mom put the finishing touches on that most glorious of holiday meals around and always full and happy table full of

young and old.

Old-Fashioned Christmas (By Edna Jacques) I like old-fashioned things at Christmastime….old fashioned lights and tinsel on a tree, Red candles lighted in a quiet room, and a mother with a baby on her knee.

The smell of cedar in the living room, pinecones with bits of silver on the tips, A holly wreath tied with a scarlet bow and the smell of wax when a tall candle drips.

Who could ever resist the taste of mincemeat from a covered crock, brown Christmas cake, mulled cider in a jug?

Gay parcels piled behind the Christmas tree, warm firelight playing on a crimson rug.

The brown skin of the turkey rich and good, old-fashioned dressing made with sage and bread, Rich gravy spilling from a golden bowl and the cranberry jelly glowing bright and red.

The mother with a clean print apron on, dishing the dinner up with happy pride, Dad carving the turkey…. heaping up the plates, always laying the wishbone snugly to one side.

I love old-fashioned things on Christmas Day, snow on the ground…..a church across the way.

May I extend to all the proud generations and traditions of yesterday and today the very Merriest of Christmases from our family to yours..

Amber, Theresa, Kahla, Ramona

Home Décor and Gift Store Wishing you all the blessings of the season and a Happy New Year!

250072 Menaik Road Ponoka 1 ⁄2 km West of Hwy 2A 587-797-1368

The Christmas season is a perfect time to say “Thank You”, and to express to you and yours every happiness during this beautiful season and throughout the coming year.

we’ve taken a shine to you We’d be real heels if we didn’t say “Thanks!” for taking a shine to us.

PHONE: 403-783-4911 FAX: 403-783-5222 dirtvl@telusplanet.net • www.direct-travel.ca

5102 46 Ave, Ponoka Phone: 403-783-4648

4 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Season’s Greetings

To our customers & friends many thanks for your patronage this year!

203, Bldg 2, 6701 Hwy 53

403-783-6422

Merry Christmas

from all of us

May the coming year bring peace, joy and enlightenment to you and those you cherish.

For all the joy you’ve brought us, we will always be grateful.

A heartfelt thank you to our current & future customers of our recycle program We wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

From Don, Lynn & staff

5101-51 Ave. Ponoka, AB 403-704-1600 Follow us on Facebook at:

www.facebook.com/PPQSPONOKA We will be closed Dec. 24, 2015 to Jan. 4, 2016

Staff, Members and Board of Directors

Ponoka Rising Sun Clubhouse 5216 - 50 Street | 403-783-5810

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 5

Season’s Greetings

Great joy to all people

MATT SEALY Church of the Open Bible My wife and I have been blessed with four wonderful children. Each one of them brings joy into our lives in unique ways. We are so grateful for them.

As I look to the Scriptures at Christmastime, I can’t help but see that the

Christ Child brought joy to the entire world.

Jesus was an important figure, and yet the angel chose to reveal His birth to shepherds—not kings or politicians or wealthy CEO’s. Shepherds!

Of course, this makes sense if we listen to the message the angel delivered: “I proclaim to you good news that brings great joy to all the people.” ALL people. Not some, not just important people, not just wealthy people, not just smart people. ALL people. And that included shepherds. And that includes you and me.

That joy is that Jesus came to “seek and to save the lost”. He came to redeem us from our sin.

The birth of Jesus was to bring great joy into your life. Do you have that joy this Christmas? Come to Jesus and experience joy, unspeakable joy.

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL/RECREATIONAL

ONE OF OUR REAL JOYS OF THE FESTIVE SEASON IS THE OPPORTUNITY TO SAY “THANK YOU” AND TO WISH YOU THE BEST FOR THE NEW YEAR 2016.

• Restroom Trailers • VIP Solar Powered Units • Handicap Units

Our Service is Second to None!

Portable Toilet Rentals

403-783-8322 sales@littlejons.ca

6 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Community full of generosity for the food bank

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS With the CP Rail Holiday Train coming to Ponoka not once, but twice in two years, the Ponoka Food Bank has been overwhelmed with the support.

As the holiday train rolled into town Tuesday, Dec. 15 for the second year in a row, warm weather and an estimated crowd of 2,000 helped bring more than 2,000 pounds of food to the food bank plus over $1,000 in cash donations, says food bank president Dean Hill.

“I was moved and very impressed with the community,” he said.

It really is a season of giving for the food bank who also received donations from Ponoka Family and Community Support Services and the Ponoka Kinsmen and Kinettes.

Add to that the $4,000 CP Rail donated to the food bank the night of the train’s arrival into town.

“The temperature was right and the community, as always, was involved,” said Hill of the evening.

He added that this year looks like a record for number of people who attended and for the amount of money and food raised during the train’s arrival.

Among the many activities surrounding the train’s Ponoka visit was an appearance by a Minion, hot chocolate, donations to the food bank and a bonfire. Having the train return for a second year in a row was a welcome experience for the food bank, Hill said.

“I was really moved by the fact that despite the economic downturn, this community lined up,” stressed Hill.

As always, the Ponoka Lions Club was in attendance accepting donations of food and cash. Club president Larry Henkelman said he was proud of the strong support.

“It’s a real give back to the community, especially with the times as they are now,” said Henkelman.

With strong support from the Ponoka Youth Centre, kids also came out to help collect and load food onto the Lion’s bus. Henkelman said the club has been part of the food collections for many years.

The support is something Hill feels will help the food bank as a buffer. He feels with a struggling economy their need will remain.

Holiday train a popular experience Over the years, the Holiday Train has been a popular experience for Ponoka residents.

Now in its 17th year, the train brings upbeat entertain-

HOW SWEET IT IS...

Ponoka residents were treated to a feast of lights on CP Rail’s Holiday Train Tuesday, Dec. 8 in Ponoka. It is estimated that more than 2,000 people showed up for the festivities. Here Kelly Prescott (right) gets a greeting from a Minion.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

ment and this year was no different with Kelly Prescott and Devin Cuddy warming the hearts of attendees in Ponoka.

Cuddy took some time to speak with Ponoka News about being part of the experience.

By the time they arrived in Ponoka the Holiday Train band, along with Prescott and Cuddy had a large number of shows under their belts. In Alberta alone the crew will have done 20 shows. continued on page 7

Joy y to the World

We wish you a

May peace and contentment be yours, as together we share in the magic of this special time of year. Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas and a

Happy New Year!

To serve people like you!

Merry Christmas!

Hobbema Transport 3906 66 St 403-783-5275 Hobbema 780-585-2424

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 7

Season’s Greetings

CP Holiday train joyously received Continued from page 6 The musicians feed off of each other’s energy during a show, says Cuddy, and he also credits the Holiday Train band for their experience over the years.

“They had a good insight into how it works and how the crowd reacts to certain things.”

He added that Prescott has also taken part in the Holiday Train entertainment in previous years.

“For me I just want to have a cool experience,” said Cuddy.

He added that even if the schedule ended at Ponoka he feels the experience was worth it. He considers the trip brought more than just fun memories but he was able to travel the country by train and see many communities across

Canada.

“For me it’s a cool thing to see people come out, especially in the cold … and just enjoy themselves,” said Cuddy.

Cuddy also joined his father, Jim Cuddy of Blue Rodeo, in Calgary. It was Jim, who has also taken part in the Holiday Train entertainment, who inspired Cuddy to take part.

This trip sets the stage for an upcoming tour that Cuddy is taking part in with his group the Devin Cuddy Band. He recently released his last album on vinyl and the band wants to keep on the road.

Releasing the album on vinyl was something he found fans were eager to see.

After Ponoka, the train made its way to Blackfalds for a final performance of the day.

ou a

W

e wish y

have a joyous

Merrystmas Chri

NOEL!

DUNC’S SEPTIC TANK SERVICES LTD.

With warm wishes and gratitude this holiday season from our entire staff.

In the spirit of the season may you find tranquility and contentment in your homes and hearts.

We thank you for the privilege of serving you and hope to see you again soon!

JOHN. W LOW Agencies Inc. 5118 - 50 Street, Ponoka

1-800-392-8658

403.783.5512

With warm wishes to our many supporters this holiday season.

403-783-3135 Ponoka

Murray & St M Staff ff

First Choice Auto & Truck Repair LTD Ponoka Towing SHOP

4215 - 67 ST. 403-783-8327 • TOWING 403-783-0700

Please don’t drink and drive during this Holiday Season!

8 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Why red and green represent Christmas

COMPILED FROM INTERNET When anyone says “Christmas colors”, what immediately comes to mind is red and green, but why do these two colors represent the most celebrated holiday in the Western calendar?

Like any longstanding tradition, there are enough stories about the origins to keep a cultural anthropologist busy for a long time, some of those appear to be more relevant than the others.

Some think that it all began with the shiny green leaves and bright red berries of a sprig of holly. A good thought

since red and green are the only bright colors that seem to survive in nature when temperatures plummet but this isn’t why we link red and green to Christmas.

The Roman’s celebrated Saturnalia a December festival that honored the god Saturn and preceded the celebrating of Christmas. During the Saturnalia festival, holly wreaths were given as gifts.

It has been said that in the 4th century, leaders in the Catholic Church came up with the idea to celebrate Christmas on December 25 in order to outdo the Saturnalia festivities of the pagan religion that at the

time threatened Christianity’s existence. Even though it is thought that the birth of Christ actually took place during the spring, the December date was chosen to celebrate the birth of Christ and to compete with the rival festival.

Sounds like a modern day battle of brands rather than the origins of a religious holiday, doesn’t it? Of course, if you are going to usurp the holiday, why not take over the symbols, too and give them some deeper, and of course religious meanings. continued on page 9

A Note Of Thanks At The Holiday Season

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a blessed and Happy New Year!

May your homes be filled with Grace and Peace this Christmas and throughout the coming year.

In times like these, we are especially grateful for the

A heartfelt thank you to all our customers for their patronage in 2015. We look forward to serving you in 2016.

loyalty and support of people like you, and would like to express our best wishes for a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year to each of you.

Jim, Norlyn, Vern, Daneel, Todd, Josh, Larry, Alix, Elsbeth and Whitney

Wishing Everyone T he very best this holiday season!

ALLEN B. OLSON AUCTION SERVICE LTD. RIMBEY, ALBERTA

5027 - 51 Ave • 403-783-4000

403-843-2747

www.allenolsonauction.com

403-783-6036

SERVING CENTRAL ALBERTA SINCE 1993 WWW.CLASSICGRANITEWORKS.COM

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 9

Season’s Greetings

Christmas traditions rooted in red and green continued from page 8 It is said that only the holly tree consented to be cut down and its wood made into a cross to bear Jesus. Some Christians believe that Jesus wore a crown of holly thorns whose berries were originally white.

“As Jesus’ blood touched the berries, they turned red. The green leaves of the holly plant have come to represent everlasting life and the berries the blood of Jesus,” is as how a BBC program, Christmas Traditions told the tale.

Years later, church fathers also gave a nod to Holly as a decoration to replace mistletoe. But why would anyone want to replace mistletoe?

Back to religious leaders and their desire to squelch pagan beliefs. About two hundred years before the birth of Christ mistletoe was used by the Druids to celebrate the coming of winter. When congregation members began using mistletoe as Christmas decoration… you guessed it.

This would never do, so church fathers suggested that sprigs of holly would be a more appropriate adornment and suitable replacement for mistletoe.

Pointsettias Many think that the tradition of red and green started with the poinsettia plant, but that didn’t become a symbol of Christmas until much more recently; recent, at least when you look at the big timeline of all human history.

The poinsettia is native to Mexico, where its yellow flower surrounded by

bright red leaves (yep the flower is the small yellow center and the red many think of as the blossom are actually the top leaves) is symbolic of the star of Bethlehem.

The plant along with its Christmas symbolism was first introduced to America in 1828 by America’s first ambassador to Mexico, Joel Poinsett, who the popular plant was named after. Hmm, how do you get to have a plant named after you?

Anyway poinsettias may be considered the flower of Christmas but they aren’t the reason we think red and green.

Pine green and apple red The most likely root of the red and green tradition dates back to the 1300s when Adam and Eve’s Day was celebrated on Dec. 24. Each year on this day, churches traditionally presented a Paradise Play depicting the story of Adam and Eve and the Garden of Eden.

Now you can’t have a story about Adam and Eve without an apple tree but since it wasn’t easy to find a real tree full of ripe, red apples during the winter, apples someone came up with the idea of fastening apples to the branches of a pine tree. This decorated pine tree represented the Tree of Good and Evil. But the tree wasn’t only seen in the play. Churches began adding a tree donning red apples into their Christmas displays.

The decorated tree that began as a prop for the Paradise play was so popular especially in Germany, that people began to put pine trees up in their homes during the holiday, decorating them with red

apples, as the church folks had done and the tradition of having a Christmas tree was born.

The idea spread and both Christmas

trees and the color combination of red and green were well on its way to becoming official symbols of the Christmas holiday.

As the festive season fast approaches, Ponoka Town

Council & Staп

wish everyone a

Merry Christmas

and a safe and

joyous New Year!

Mayor Rick Bonnett Councillors:

Tim Falkiner, Loanna Gulka, Sandra Lyon,

Carla Prediger,Teri Underhill, Marc Yaworski

Ponoka 403-783-5561

Rimbey 403-843-2439

www.vjvauction.com

10 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Christmas is a time to share

PASTOR TIM GRAFF Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church

This Christmas my wife and I have the opportunity to have our entire family together.

We look forward to that time. However, for almost 30 years, my family and I have celebrated most Christmases apart from our extended family. Even so, our celebration has been filled with much joy and thankfulness because of the gift of Christ and His family.

Being separated from family reminds us of the many people who spend Christmas alone, either apart from their family due to distance or separated by conflict and estrangement.

Singer and songwriter

Steve Bell tells the story of his family going to lead worship in the local prison. Those who came were the prisoners who had no one to share Christmas with. Bell describes this service

Merry Christmas

as one of the saddest.

Prisoners came in with heads bowed down and tears falling to the floor.

Growing up in my parents’ home, Christmas Eve was a time not only for my immediate fami-

ly, but also for those who had no one else to share it with. After worship, my parents would invite for supper many people who would have been alone.

In the midst of the joy

of this season, I pray that the Christ who was born into a lonely setting would open our eyes to those this Christmas who need someone to share the gift of family and friendship with.

Invite them over to your home. Invite them to worship, Invite them to share in the Community Christmas meal and may Christ come to you and to them in the midst of this gift shared.

Merry Christmas

Customers &Friends!

We know you have been good...

ESPECIALLY TO US!

T hank you for your loyal support.

With warm wishes to you and yours we thank you for friendship and support.

Hwy. 2A South • 403-783-4494 www.ponokachev.com

403-704-2383

4201 66 STREET, PONOKA

403-783-4033 5023 - 51 Ave.

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 11

Season’s Greetings

Dennis Dupuis of Hamilton’s IGA used 11,400 cans of Coca Cola family of drinks packed in boxes of 12 to create the Merry Christmas message to welcome shopppers at the grocery store this season.

Photo by Mustafa Eric

Celebrate the tradition of giving, the beauty of the season and a New Year of peace and happiness.

As is our tradition, in lieu of sending cards to our clients and as a thank you for your patronage, we have made a donation to the Ponoka Food Bank.

We would like to wish you a safe and happy Holiday Season. All the best in the New Year!

Your continued patronage is appreciated.

Paterson & Company Law Office

The Co-operators | Battle River Insurance Ltd. 5103 48 Ave, Bay #3 | Ponoka, AB | 403-783-3987

5016 51 Ave • 403-783-5521

12 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Season’s Greetings

Human solutions are not the Light

WILLIAM DELLEMAN Sonrise Christian Reformed Church A long time ago a prophet spoke the word of life: The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.

(Isaiah 9.2) That man lived in times like our own marked by terrorism, poverty, injustice, war and hearts as unforgivingly hard as stone.

He called those conditions darkness for a reason.

Those things and the atti-

tudes that produce them are the shadow of death.

They are death and the enduring problem.

I mean, after all this time, we’ve come no closer to ending war with more war, have we? We’ve not overcome poverty with capitalism or injustice with democracy either, right?

But how could they? Even if capitalism and democracy are the best choices among the options available, human solutions are not the Light. They are variations on the same dark themes and I am convinced that more of the same cannot solve the real problems.

I believe the way forward - The Light in the darkness – comes to us as a person; initially a baby; ultimately a man who exposes darkness for the evil lie it is. Jesus came. He lived among us and if you are willing to suspend disbelief, you will discover his abiding presence remains to guide and comfort you through whatever darkness may befall you. And you will also discover that by taking what he said and did seriously, things begin to change.

Ponoka License & Registry Holiday Hours: Open Dec. 24 - 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Dec. 29 & 30 - Regular Hours Dec. 31 - 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

With Warm Wishes for a Happy Holiday Season and Prosperous New Year!

Closed

Friends like you make it all worthwhile – thanks!

Dec. 25, 28 2015 & Jan. 1, 2016 REGULAR HOURS RESUME JANUARY 4, 2016

4902 50 St • 403-783-5525 Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year

Our thanks and best wishes for a holiday season filled with lots of good times and good cheer!

EC

ECKLUND

Home: 403-783-3712 Water Well Services Cell: 403-704-3413

Wate

May you enjoy the Yuletide season We have truly valued your support this year

403-304-6909

6701-44 Ave Ponoka, AB 403-783-6037 Toll Free 1-877-783-6020

In the spirit of the season, we extend heartfelt thanks and best wishes for a happy, healthy season.

5008-46 Ave. 403.783.5616 310-GLASS (4527) CRYSTALGLASS.CA

403-783-5655

H

DOT’S FABRICS YARNS & CRAFTS 403.783.4091 5023 - 51 Ave.

5306 - 50 Street • Ponoka, AB www.ponokanewused.ca

All we want for Christmas... is to wish you the very best!

H ’ hoping Here’s h i nothing’s hi ’ missing i i from your holiday season. May it be filled with family, friends, great times and holiday cheer.

Thank you for your patronage.

Ponoka Reddi Mart 4508 - 39 Ave. • 403-783-6310

For your continued support, we are forever grateful!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS From Our House to Yours!

6502 46 Avenue • Ponoka • 403.783.3411

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Season’s Greetings

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 6102 57 Ave. • 403-783-6404

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Readers Drama & Carols 7:00 pm Dec. 25 Christmas Day Program 10:30 am

TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 5501 - 54 Ave, 403-783-4141 December 20 Sunday School Presentation 10:30 am

December 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Services 4:00 pm & 7:00 pm

December 25 - No Service

PARKLAND REFORM CHURCH South on Hwy 2A, West on Spruce Road.

403-783-1888 December 25 Christmas Service 10:00 am December 31 New Year’s Eve Service 7:30 pm January 1, 2016 New Year’s Day Service 10:00 am

CHURCH OF THE OPEN BIBLE 3704 42 St., 403-783-6500 Friday, December 18 Christmas Drama at 7:00 pm “Prepare Him Room”

Sunday, December 20

Christmas Program December 12 •10:45 am December 26 • 10:45 am

Regular Service 11:00 am - With Sunday School Christmas program held during morning service

Community lunch to follow programs

Regular service 11:00 am

ST. AUGUSTINE CATHOLIC CHURCH 5113 52 Ave., 403-783-4048 December 24 Christmas Eve Mass 5:00 pm & 9:00 pm December 25 Christmas Day Mass 9:00 am January 1, 2016 New Year’s Day Mass 9:00 am Come Celebrate the Birth of Christ.

Everyone Welcome!

Corner of Hwy 2A & Hwy 53 • 403.783.5659 Thursday, December 24 “Home for Christmas” Xmas Eve Service at 6:00 pm

Thursday, December 31

“Last Night Done Right” Family Skating Party 7-9pm at the Ponoka Arena Free Public Skating, Shinny Hockey

Thursday, December 24 Christmas Eve Service at 6:30 pm

Sunday, December 27 May your Christmas & New Year be filled with God’s many blessings!

ST. MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH 5120 - 49 Ave., 403-783-4329 www.stmarysanglicanponoka.com Saturday, December 19 A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols 7:00 pm Sunday, December 20 - Holy Eucharist 10:00 am Tuesday, December 22 Blue Christmas Service 7:00 pm With Ponoka United Church Wednesday, December 24 Family Eucharist 6:30 pm Midnight Mass 11:00 pm Friday, December 25 - No service this year God’s Peace this Christmas & throughout 2016

PONOKA NEWS 13

PONOKA UNITED CHURCH 5020 - 52 Ave, 403-783-4087 Tuesday, December 22 Blue Christmas Service 7:00 pm at St. Mary’s Anglican Church

Thursday, December 24 Candlelight Communion 7:00 pm

Sunday, December 27 Carols and Cocoa 10:00 am

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 5109 - 57 Ave. 403-783-5533 www.fbcponoka.org

Come Celebrate With Us! December 24 Christmas Eve Service 6:30 pm

14 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Christmas message from St. Augustine Catholic Parish FATHER SHIMIT ABRAHAM DEACON ROLLIE COMEAU “For unto us is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour who is Christ the Lord. And this will a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” Luke 2: 11-12 God’s entry into humanity is perhaps the greatest event ever to happen. Because of His love for us we have been redeemed and offered the rewards of eternal life. As we commemorate this great feast of Christmas may we always seek to live our life in holiness and in gratitude.

May the peace and joy of this Christmas season live in our hearts and may the example of Christ be our guide on our earthly journey.

St Augustine Parish warmly welcomes all who wish to celebrate with us the birth of Christ this Christmas. At the same time we want to offer you and your loved ones a blessed and peaceful Christmas and a happy and fruitful New Year, full of faith in the goodness of God.

s a m t s i r h C y r r e M from the staff at

• Residential • Commercial • Installation & Repair • Heating • Ventilation • AC • Custom Sheet Metal • Eavestroughing

Merry Christmas 3912 - 66 St Ponoka, AB www.wcmltd.ca

Ph: 403.783.3501 Fax: 403.783.3531 wcmltd@telus.net

5006 52 Ave, Ponoka • 403-783-4462

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 15

Season’s Greetings

God came to be among us

MLA RON ORR Every religious tradition has its holy days.

Christmas is clearly a Christian celebration.

In a society where the freedom of religion is enshrined in the charter of rights all communities should be free to rejoice on their day without censure or prejudice.

Christmas is the second greatest celebration of the Christian movement.

What is the point?

It is that God has now been revealed.

God, the great mystery, hidden - in time past- in dense cloud or shielded from human eyes by blinding light, can now be known.

God is the great unknown, in many ways.

As the ancient writer Job asked “Who can know God? Who has seen Him.?”

Let’s be honest, getting to know God is difficult; you can’t see him directly.

He is like the wind, you can’t see it; you can only see the grass sway and know it is the wind.

For centuries people wondered about God. They feared that they would never know him; they feared that they

We thank our customers for a fantastic year and wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season!

Noreen, Diane & Nola

UPSTAIRS • 5014 - 51 AVE

403-783.2926

Mona, Randy, Mandi and Brandi would like to take this time to thank all our customers for the continued support throughout the year.

Best Wishes for a happy and safe holiday season!

Wy-Co Alcohol & Drug Testing

403.790.7442 5210-50 St, Ponoka AB

would encounter him.

For Christians the great joy of the season in that God came among us, to be one with us.

Now, we can know him, if we choose to seek him with the humility of simple shepherds.

The long night has passed; a new day has

dawned.

Angels came.

God is with us.

On behalf of myself, my wife Donna Marie and my constituency staff, I would like to wish all of my constituents a very Merry Christmas and offer your best wishes for a Happy New Year…

The Ponoka District 4-H Beef Clubs

Wish our 4-H buyers and sponsors a very Merry Christmas and all the best in 2016!

2015 BUYERS

Ada Adams dam da mss Chevrolet Buick GMC Alberta Flares Big House Converters Ltd Birchland Dental Clinic CashChem Ltd Central Powertrain Central Veterinary Clinic Cervus Equipment Ponoka x2 Crawford Agencies Darcy’s Drilling Services

East Country Electric Family Meats Ponoka Ltd Fountain Tire Hamilton’s IGA Integra Tire Longvista Transport McCFeeds Mixcor Aggregates Inc Pentagon Farm Centre

ACHIEVEMENT DAY SPONSORS

Accu Publishing AFSC Auctioneers-Dan Skeels & Dean Edge Bob Ronnie Catering Cervus Equipment – John Deere Abt Cattle Company Ltd. Adams Chevrolet Buick GMC ATB Financial Battle River Insurance representing The CoOperators Central Veterinary Clinic Deb Stevens – Remax Don Laing Trailers Inc.

Altitude Laser Spa Asker Valley Limousin ATB Financial Bashaw Crop Services Bev & Barry Woyen Dean & Betty Golley Fred & Gloria Harvey Glover International Trucks

Ponoka Family Health Clinic Ponoka Fertilizer Ponoka First Call Towing Ponoka Stampede Association Ponoka Veterinary Clinic Provincial Power Train Rowland, Parker & Associates x2 TNT Electric Vold, Jones & Vold Auction x2 Wagar Seed Services

Naomi McKinney for taking pictures of all our kids and calves Ponoka Agricultural Society Ponoka Co-op Oils-Facility Rental Ponoka News

Servus Credit Union -New Air Express Dryers for each club Triple 7 Ranches UFA Vermilion Energy Ltd. VJV Auction market –shavings, scale use, and more

G & S Meats Ltd. Hamilton’s IGA The Jones Boys Saddlery & Western Wear McKinney Psychological Services Ponoka Chamber of Commerce Ponoka Co-op Oils Ponoka County Ponoka Veterinary Clinic

RBC Financial Scizzor Wizzard Hair Design Servus Credit Union Town & Country Supplies & Rentals Ltd. Wedin’s Team & Corporate Will’s Welding Windamar Enterprises Ltd.

INTERCLUB AWARD SPONSORS

EAST PONOKA CLUB AWARD SPONSORS Groom Family Gustafson Family Haines Creek Limousin HB Angus Herman & Janny Simons Jeff & Monica Harvey Julie’s Travel Keith & Karen Kjenner

Kikel Meats KJ’s Repairs Mecca Glen Preschool MGM Land Services Miller Wilson Angus Ponoka Ag Society Ponoka Co-op Oils Ponoka Fertilizer

Ponoka Speckle Park Sandin’s Paint & Autobody Shane’s Ag & Heavy Repair Simco Seeds Steven Forth Livestock Hauling Sturgeon Signs & Bronze Wes McDowell Family Wy-Co Alcohol & Drug Testing

Arnold & Arlene Cline ATB Financial Blue Northern Exploration Bob Tiltgen Caskey & Company LLP Chartered Accountants Central Office Supplies Ltd Cutting Edge Hair Design & Salon

Dale & Donna Gartner Family Double D Industrial First Choice Auto & Truck Repair George & Brenda Kocyba Family John & Camille Paulson Kevin & Noreen Tofsrud Liisa’s Flower World McCFeeds

Monster Controls Inc New Beginnings Wedding & Formal Wear Ponderosa Farms Ponoka Agricultural Society Ponoka Cabinet Makers Ltd Ponoka Co-op Oils Ponoka Dental Centre/Joyce Winter

Ponoka Fertilizer Ponoka Funeral Home Quality Paint & Collision Repairs Sturgeon Signs & Bronze Thirsk Automotive Distributors Ltd/ yce Winter Joyce Town & Country Supplies Wes & Joyce McDowell & Family

ATB Financial Cilantro & Chive Dan Jeffery Family Dave & Shelley Abt Don Laing Trailers Fountain Tire

Matejka Farms Peter Dykstra Family Ponoka Agricultural Society Ponoka Co-op Oils Ponoka Fertilizer Property Guys

Ron & Janet Sperber Ron & Verna McDowell Rowland Parker & Associates Sirrs Law Group Sommer Home Hardware Sturgeon Signs & Bronze

The Bresee resee Family Town & Country Supplies Usonaa Ag. Society Verbruggen uggen Veterinary Services Wagner’s er’s Automotive Wes McDowell Family

CENTRAL PONOKA CLUB AWARD SPONSORS

WEST PONOKA CLUB AWARD SPONSORS

Thank you Ponoka County for sponsoring the year-end banquet.

As you can see we are blessed to have so many supporters of

4-H BEEF CLUBS IN PONOKA!

Special Christmas wishes also to those who help out with judging public speaking, teaching workshops hops and giving of your time in any way for our 4-H youth.

Our sincere apologies if we have missed anyone and please let us know so that we can ensuree you are recognized in our Sale Catalogue in the spring.

16 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Taken Away – Calling themselves the Silver Bellas, the trio of (l-r) Sheila Bartsch, Kelly Longard and Kiersten Hawthorn – accompanied by (not pictured) Brenda Fuss-Detz – demonstrated their talents by performing a rendition of Away in a Manger on Monday, Dec. 7 at the 2015 Carol Festival held at the Ponoka United Church. The annual traditional event sponsored by the Ponoka Kinsmen, Kinettes and K40 brings together a number of musical acts to perform holiday and Christmas music with the proceeds from donations gathered this year going to the Ponoka Food Bank.

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 17

Season’s Greetings

We need a little Christmas – Members of the Willan Chorale group – with Charmaine Arandez, Lori Gartner, Lydia Fairclough, Sue Henderson, Maria Perez, Judy Meintzer, Doug Routledge, Marion Basanes, Chris Meintzer, Romy Mandanas, Angelo Marqueses, Warren Mack and Richard Patterson – sing one of several Christmas songs during their annual concert held Sunday, Dec. 6 at St. Augustine Catholic School. The performance also included a bit of a twist with the group performing an original musical play in the second half of the concert.

With You In Mind at Christmas Our gratitude to you for your goodwill towards us this past year.

Have a happy holiday!

Spirit The

is Building!

THE SPIRIT IS BUILDING

May your home be filled with laughter, From the floorboards to the rafters.

And may all your hopes and dreams come true That’s our holiday wish for you

With best wishes and gratitude from all of us

Christmas Hours:

December 24th Christmas Eve 8am – 3pm December 25th Christmas Day CLOSED December 26th Boxing Day CLOSED December 31st New Year’s Eve 8am – 4pm January 1st New Year’s Day CLOSED

Regular store hours:

Weekdays: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm • Saturday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Sunday: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm • Closed Stat Holidays OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Richard S. Gregory

Sommer

Miles A. M. Cymbaluk, Q.C. William J. Kidd, Q.C.

LAW GROUP

Richard D. Wyrozub Ponoka • Rimbey • Wetaskiwin • Camrose

www.sirrsllp.com

Website: www.homehardware.ca/sommerhhbc Telephone: 403-783-4464 • Twitter @sommerhh • LIKE US on 6503-44 Avenue in the Ponoka South Industrial Park

18 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

In Jesus, we see God

ROB MCARTHUR Word of Life Church

I heard a comical story once about what God looked like. A little boy had sat down with a pencil and paper to draw God. His mother told him he was silly, for no one knew what God looked like. The boy replied to her, “They will when I’m finished this picture!”

My favorite “Christmas themed” scripture from the Bible is found in the book of Colossians. In chapter 1 verse 15, it tells us that Jesus “is the image of the invisible God”. He is a picture of what God looks like. But this word image means more than just a Representation, but

it also means Revelation.

I am a terrible photographer. Not only do I take terrible pictures but I have almost zero desire to take photos. Besides the fact that it irritates my wife,

my inability or willingness to snap photos has often left me not knowing what happened.

Like a photo represents the object pictured, as a rule, an image is noth-

ing more than a representation. It’s not the real thing, it’s just a picture.

But Jesus takes this picture thing a step further.

When it reads that Jesus is the image of the invis-

ible God, it also means he is the revelation of God. Jesus is not just a picture of God, but rather Jesus brings with himself the very presence of God, because he is God.

In Jesus Christ, the invisible God became visible. God became flesh in a little baby. Jesus is the representation but also the manifestation of God to us.

A Wish For You at the

Holidays

In this season of hopes and dreams, it is our hope that all your dreams come true this year.

For helping us to realize ours, we offer you our heartfelt gratitude.

With all our best wishes to everyone we know.

We value your patronage and look forward to seeing you in 2016!

Robert, Irene & Staff

R. JOHANSEN SALES LTD. 403-783-5185 Sales: 1-800-662-7135

Wishing you a season that’s merry and bright Greetings from: PONOKA BOTTLE DEPOT 5520 Hwy 2A • 403.783.6875

PONOKA CABINET MAKERS 403-783-4319 6602 - 42 Ave.

PONOKA CAPITOL THEATRE 4904 50 Street • 403.783.3639

For your patronage, we are sincerely grateful.

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 19

Season’s Greetings

Best wishes for a Merry Christmas BEATRIX SCHIRNER Ponoka United Church

Ponoka United Church wishes one and all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

For those of other world faiths, may this season be one that offers a time of reflection and peace. As this time, of shorter days and longer nights, turns with the solstice to increasing light once again, may we all be blessed.

Judite Vold (left) and Haley Hoffman were achitects of the Rainbow Nest, the winning entry in the Gingerbread House competition organized at the St. Augustine School on Saturday, Dec. 5.

Visitors to the Christmas sale at the school that day decided on the winner by donating cash to the gingerbread structures they liked best and Rainbow Nest collected the most donations.

A total of $123 was raised for the Good Samaritan Fund of the St. Augustine school.

Submitted photo

Merry Christmas

& Happy New Year!

Committed To Your Comfort With tidings of comfort and joy to our neighbours, customers, and friends.

We offer our warm wishes for the best holiday season!

Thank you for choosing us!

RESIDENTIAL - COMMERCIAL

• Heating • Ventilation • Air Conditioning Systems • Custom Metal Fabrication 5012 - 50 Ave.

Ponoka, AB, T4J 1R5

403-783-3976

PREMIER DEALER

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Phone 403.782.7722 4816 - 45A Street • Lacombe, AB

20 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Season’s Greetings

Christmas concert time: Mecca Glen School students get into playing a fun tune Tuesday, Dec. 8 during a dress rehearsal for their Christmas concert. Here (back row) Joaquin Buffalo, Jack Kroening, Bruce Williams and (front row) Caleb Bloomquist, Tim Huijssoon and Cache Mathieu concentrate on their notes.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 5024 - 50 Ave. Ponoka, AB

403-783-3944

Best wishes to all our friends and neighbours

From all of us at First Choice Realty (Ponoka) Ltd. A special greeting at Christmas time to express to you our sincere appreciation for your confidence and loyalty.

We are deeply thankful and extend to you our best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.

for a happy and healthy holiday season.

Sandra Lyon Broker/Owner

403-783-7591 Email: bharbin@telus.net

3, 5012 - 48 Avenue • 403.783.8881

Tyler Fessler Associate

Lisa Bone Associate

Rizwan Syed Associate

Chanelle Lyon Associate

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Working with metal to create wonderful gifts

Tom Scott, of Kastiel Welding, holds up a popular metal piece he created with his plasma cutter. Scott has found success in custom build signs and metal works.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Welder Tom Scott has taken his skills of metal working and his plasma cutter to create memorable gifts ideal for the holiday season.

To take advantage of the gift-giving season Scott took part in the winter Farmers’ Markets to showcase his skills with metal. After apprenticing at Will’s Welding in Ponoka, Scott did industrial welding in Red Deer, now he started his own business near Ponoka — Kastiel Welding — and works full time doing custom work for industry, families and farms. ”It’s something fun and different and I haven’t seen a lot of it,” said Scott.

Business developed relatively quickly when Scott designed and fabricated a special hot dog stick for the barbecue.

Using special themes, Scott will custom design the sticks as well as the plasma cut metal pieces. Some of the work has a use and others are for display in the home.

One cutout depicts a bear outline with two cubs cut out in a mountain scene that continues to be a big seller. Scott also creates custom signs.

They make ideal welcome signs for the homestead and Scott will work closely with customers to find something that meets their needs. He also creates custom fire pits or yard cook stoves. For more information check out www.kastielwelding.com or call him at 403-597-2246.

Happy Holidays!

Wishing you a jolly good time whatever you do.

It’s been our pleasure serving you.

Management and Staff

Scrapbooking a creative outlet

Debbie Lamey (left), of Scrappin and Cardmakin Supplies, poses with customer Brenda Fournier. Lamey has seen a growing trend of folks interested in handmade cards in recent years.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Scrap bookers and card makers continue to show their love of the craft that has seen new trends in recent years.

Debbie Lamey owns Scrappin and Cardmakin Supplies in Ponoka and she has seen a strong trend towards steam punk designs. With cost of cards at a premium Lamey says there is a de-

Merry Christmas

403-783-3900 Ponoka Industrial Park

sire for individuals who want to make special gifts for families.

The options are endless. “You can get really wild and crazy with scrap booking.”

Folks get into making photo books, canvases, cards and many other options on acid free paper.

“Steam punk is huge.

Metal trinkets, huge,” stated Lamey.

To get involved Lamey says she hosts special

card making classes to help customers learn new tricks or to learn the basics. She hopes to open a home workroom in the near future.

“A lot of people say, ‘Oh I can’t do that. I don’t have a creative bone in my body.’ Come to one card class and we’ll see if you have a creative bone in your body,’ said Lamey.

For more information call Lamey at 403-7046561.

Holiday Greetings From Our Family To Yours

As the holiday season approaches, we’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued patronage.

It is our clients like you who make our jobs a pleasure and keep our company successful.

May your holiday season and the New Year be ¿lled with much peace, joy & happiness.

We look forward to working with you in the coming year and hope our relationship continues for many years to come.

6706 - 44 Ave.

PONOKA NEWS 21

Season’s Greetings

403 783 4954 • juliestravel@telus.net “Offering highly personalized service with outstanding integrity for all your travel needs.”

Please accept our best wishes for a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year.

We feel truly honored to serve this community and appreciate your trust in us.

Ponoka Funeral Home ~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~

5115 - 50 Ave.

403-783-3122

22 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

MERRY

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Warm wishes for a Merry Christmas

CHRISTMAS!

along with heartfelt thanks for your friendship and goodwill.

Wishing you and your family every happiness this holiday season.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow Let It Snow Snow

Best wishes for the New Year.

Nothing can dampen our appreciation for customers like you!

Merry Christmas and many thanks.

Ron Orr, MLA Lacombe - Ponoka #101 4892 46 Street, Lacombe, AB

403-782-7725 lacombe.ponoka@assembly.ab.ca

Keith Stebner

Ponoka First Call Towing Ltd. 6701 - 46 Ave

403-783-3636

OPEN DEC. 24 UNTIL 12:00 NOON CLOSED DEC. 25 & DEC. 28 OPEN DEC. 31 UNTIL 12:00 NOON CLOSED JAN. 1, 2016

WILL’S WELDING 6506-44 Avenue, Ponoka Industrial Park

403-783-3733

AGENT FOR: FLAM AN RENTALS

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 23

Season’s Greetings

Using old wood and metal for home decor

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS With a creative eye and crafty hand, a central Alberta woman has taken rusty metal and old wood and made them into beautiful decorations for the home.

Virginia Clarke, of Rust and Wood, started about one year ago with old metal and wood and made them into rustic, western themed decorations. “I try to make everything I can or else find things that I can make something out of,” says Clarke.

Her family tore down an old bunkhouse last year, which became the inspiration for her work. Clarke was involved in sewing some years ago and wanted to get

back into a creative outlet and home decor seemed an ideal way to go.

Using barbed wire, rope, wood, door handles and old electric insulators commonly found on old power poles, Clarke has created some memorable pieces.

Clarke’s work is quite specific and she says it becomes a question of taste; some people may not enjoy the western heritage decorations and others will. Decorating the home can be a joy as well. Clarke uses a splash of colour to her works that would go well with turquoise or with a specific colour theme.

What does she like most about the work? “Meeting the people.”

She has found that customers who look at her work

generally find a moment of nostalgia, or the items may be a great conversation piece.

For more information call Clarke at 403-506-3309 or visit her Facebook page at Rust & Wood by Virginia.

CHRISTMAS IS HERE! The perfect time for joy, love & togetherness and to say We are proud to serve you!

6305 - 48 Ave.

Merry Christmas!

Thank you all for a very special year and your continued support & patronage

4814 - 50 Street, Ponoka 403-783-8721 locally owned

MARISSA STOLSON Mortgage Professional, AMP Office: 403-783-3476 Toll Free: 866-780-3476 Cell: 403-704-3349

Virginia Clarke, of Rust and Wood, has created memorable home decorations using old metal and wood.

marissa.stolson@cmlmortgages.com

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Greetings of the Season And many thanks for your generous support all year long.

River Crossing Tack Shop Dave Pohl | 403.704.7677

24 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Season’s Greetings

Tricks to making beautiful holiday wreaths

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Many folks enjoy getting their hands into the evergreen branches that make for great wreath or swag wreath decorations and florist Corinne Kohlert has some tips to make them eye-catching.

Kohlert demonstrated how to make swag wreaths, which have more of a flow compared to a traditional circular wreath, Thursday, Dec. 10 at the Ponoka Jubilee Library. The trick, says Kohlert, is to practice, practice and more practice. She said a well constructed swag has some dimension to it.

To start, a person needs cedar, spruce or fir evergreen branches. She says florists will sell the branches separately or in bundles that make a strong match. “It’s nice to have them together in a wreath because then you get the different smells and you get the different textures.”

First two steps: bundling and wiring While cedar is longer and more flexible of a branch, the fir gives the swag some strength and fullness. Fir has the add benefit of having the green leaves on the front and the silverback colour. Pine adds some beauty to the swag. As the season progresses Kohlert says the silverback will be brighter.

The trick is to find a balance of the right branches and weave them together. From there Kohlert picked a point about three quarters of the way up and squeezed the branches together so she could tie them with a green floral wire, something that is

readily available at local florist shops.

Ideally the swag will be relatively full with depth and layers. “When it looks flat the eye gets really bored,” advised Kohlert.

To hold it all together floral wire is folded in half and looped in the back as a hanger. The wire gets wrapped around the branches and twisted together. “You keep your finger in the loop so you don’t lose that loop.”

“You don’t want to have a bunch of wires hanging out,” she added.

As the wire wraps around the branches it tightens them together and keeps the loose metal from scratching a door or wall.

The trick with any wrap or swag is to go with a theme. Looping the metal takes time, says Kohlert but with dedication and practice, the project will turnout as intended, or better.

Picking the decorations The shape of the swag defines how many or few decorations are needed.

Kohlert said depending on the flow of the leaves, a swag could be displayed in a variety of ways but it is the number of decorations that make a wreath look pleasing.

“You always go in odd numbers.”

Whatever the items there should be an odd number such as one, three or five items. Adding the items requires further wrapping of floral wire around the branch to ensure they don’t fall off.

The trick with accessories? “Don’t be cheap. Buy good quality so that they don’t come apart when you’re maneuvering them.” continued on page 25

With Best Wishes For A Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year From All Of Us To All Of You We appreciate your support this past year and look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in 2016

Florist Corinne Kohlert demonstrates ways to make a bow Thursday, Dec. 10 at the Ponoka Jubilee Library during a wreath making night.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

We Wish You A Merry Christmas With glad tidings to you and your kin from all of us this holiday season

Our office will be closed Dec. 24, 25 & Jan 1, 2016

From the council & staff at Best Little Lingerie Shop in Central Alberta 5020 - 50 Street, Ponoka • 403.790.2878 Email: service@bustedlingerie.ca www.bustedlingerie.ca

Ponoka County 4205 Hwy 2A

403-783-3333

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

In wreath making, quality matters continued from page 24 She suggests more stem on items is needed in case they require trimming and it needs to last outside in the elements for several months. It’s better to have more wire than not enough. “Wire’s your best friend.”

The only limit to decorate a swag wreath is the imagination. Kohlert says there are many options including battery operated lights or there could be creative themes to a swag.

The bow The finishing touch on a swag wreath is the bow, which may take some skills but once learned, is relatively easy to do.

A ribbon is created by first setting a loop, twisting the ribbon, loop it around again and continue the process.

Kohlert used floral wire to hold the bow in place. Once that final touch is complete, additional floral wire is needed to tie it to the swag.

Practice makes perfect As with any part of the wreath-making process, practice makes perfect, says Kohlert.

When building her own swags for sale, Kohlert said she

PONOKA NEWS 25

Season’s Greetings Florist Corinne Kohlert demonstrates ways to make a knot with green metal wire Thursday, Dec. 10 at the Ponoka Jubilee Library during a wreath making night.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

is not afraid of taking them apart and starting over. Most people want to get it right on the first time but Kohlert said the focus should be on the creative process. She added that local florists have a variety of supplies and advice for crafters.

Among the other items needed to complete the project are wire cutters, clippers and floral sticks. Kohlert prefers

to work with floral wire rather than a glue gun as there is more control in tying decorations and branches and the process is less messy.

A completed wreath should last until March or April if the cold weather holds and Kohlert added the aroma of the branches should stay for some months as they pick up the moisture from the snow and air.

Best Wishes

May you enjoy all the best of the Christmas season with family, friends and neighbours

good friends this holiday season.

Ponoka Veterinary Clinic 5502 - Hwy 2A Ponoka, AB 24 Hr. Emergency - 403-783-4348

Scizzor Wizzard

Lacombe 403.782.5519 | Ponoka 403.783.2100 strandme.ca

Hair Design & Suntan Salon

5033 333 Chi Chipman Ave A

4403-783-3116 03 783 3116

Wishing you peace at Christmas & always.

Back from left: Lynda, Danielle, Dianna, Connie, April Front: Heather, Ben & Jazlyn

Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to serving you in the New Year The business will be closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Friday, Jan. 1, 2016.

DOORS ON DEMAND Overhead Doors

Heather will be returning to work in January & looks forward to seeing past clientelle & welcomes future clientelle to book for all your hair care needs.

Sales, Service & Installation COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL #4 3616 67 ST. SOUTHWEST INDUSTRIAL PARK

403-783-2454

#1, 5102 - 51 Avenue

403.783.8310

Changing one door at a time since 2010

Wetaskiwin 780-355-0777 Camrose 780-672-0800

26 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Season’s Greetings

And they all came to see – The Ponoka United Church choir was one of several acts to perform at the 2015 Carol Festival hosted at the church on Monday, Dec. 7 and sponsored by the Ponoka Kinsmen, Kinettes and K40. Donations made at the annual tradition this year went to support the work of the Ponoka Food Bank.

Photo by Jordie Dwyer

Ponoka Dental Centre

ELECTRIC

403-783-2199 #1, 6602 41 Ave (South Industrial Park) Ponoka, AB

May Your Holiday Season Be Blessed With Peace Love & Joy HAPPY HOLIDAYS! SEASONS GREETINGS! Dr. Leslie Gill • Dr. Michelle Hrdlicka

COMPLETE DENTAL & HYGIENE SERVICES

403-783-5844

5012A 48 Ave.

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Season’s Greetings

G eason S

reetings

PONOKA NEWS 27

SHAKE IT UP… IT’S CHRISTMAS! Sing. Laugh. Kick up your heels. In other words, “have a great holiday!”

of the

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and our community and hope to see you again in the year to come.

We give you our best wishes for a happy f holidayy season. and safe

403-783-5189 • Fax: 403-783-6523

Toll Free: 1-855-830-6235 430054 Don Laing Business Park, Ponoka

www.lkqcanada.ca www.legacyfordponoka.ca

Thank you for all the good times we’ve had serving you.

28 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Season’s Greetings

Toys for kids young and old

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Boys and their toys is the name of the game when it comes to describe Don Schallock’s custom built toy trucks and chuckwagons.

Schallock’s Bored Projects company started out as a form of therapy after a heart attack some years ago. He took the hobby and made it into a viable business where he features his work at farmers’ markets around central Alberta.

Taking inspiration from his knowledge of working with aluminum, Schallock customizes large toy trucks into super B trucks, logging trucks or even a cribbage board on a flat deck trailer.

“This is sort of my therapy. I love the look on the kids’ faces when they see (the

Don Schallock, of Bored Projects, has found a way to make custom toy trucks and chuckwagons that make ideal gifts for kids young and old.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

toys),” says Schallock.

“It doesn’t matter if they’re 16 or 65,” he added.

His trucks are fully decked out with chrome, checkerplate aluminum as well as working lights and a speaker that emulates the sound of the truck and horn.

“I built the sub frame on them … to

Folks Like You...

Are one of a kind!

With wishes warm and bright to all our friends and neighbours at this festive time of year.

6220 - 48 Avenue, Ponoka, AB 403.783.3998

ponoka@integratire.com | www.integratire.com

strengthen them up,” said Schallock.

Not only does he have interest from kids but from truck companies who want a custom designed unit with their logo on it. Trucks aren’t the only toys he builds.

Schallock also builds mini-chuckwagons and once built 60 custom wagons for Rick Fraser, World Professional Chuckwagon

Association driver. Fraser gives away these special built mini chuckwagons after his races.

Schallock sells a variety of trucks as well as lawn ornaments, plant holders and remote control vehicle trailers.

For more information call Schallock at 403-755-3149.

mackenzie’s

May the holiday season fill you with happiness.

Thank you for making 2015 a great year for us!

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 29

Season’s Greetings

Christmas quotes “Instead of being a time of unusual behavior, Christmas is perhaps the only time in the year when people can obey their natural impulses and express their true sentiments without feeling self-conscious and, perhaps, foolish. Christmas, in short, is about the only chance a man has to be himself.”

Francis C. Farley “Good news from heaven the angels bring, Glad tidings to the earth they sing: To us this day a child is given, To crown us with the joy of heaven.”

Martin Luther “What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future.

It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace.”

Agnes M. Pharo

“I am not alone at all, I thought. I was never alone at all. And that, of course, is the message of Christmas. We are never alone. Not when the night is darkest, the wind coldest, the world seemingly most indifferent. For this is still the time God chooses.” ~ Taylor Caldwell “Until one feels the spirit of Christmas, there is no Christmas. All else is outward display–so much tinsel and decorations. For it isn’t the holly, it isn’t the snow. It isn’t the tree not the firelight’s glow. It’s the warmth that comes to the hearts of men when the Christmas spirit returns again.”

Unknown

“Ask your children two questions this Christmas.

First: What do you want to give to others for Christmas? Second: What do you want for Christmas? The first fosters generosity of heart and an outward focus. The second can breed selfishness if not tempered by the first.”~ Author Unknown “Off to one side sits a group of shepherds. They sit silently on the floor, perhaps perplexed, perhaps in awe, no doubt in amazement. Their night watch had been interrupted by an explosion of light from heaven and a symphony of angels. God goes to those who have time to hear him–and so on this cloudless night he went to simple shepherds.” ~ Max Lucado “Christmas, my child, is love in action.” ~ Dale Evans

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

- Isaiah 9:6

With exceeding great joy, we wish you and yours peace, joy and enlightenment throughout this holy season and beyond.

BOB HEPP & COMPANY CATERING 403-783-6165

Legion - 3911 Hwy 2A, Ponoka

30 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

RANDTYOCKHATRMUMOND

Merry Christmas...

L I VE S

& HAPPY NEW YEAR! BOVINE VETERINARY SERVICES

403.391.1684 | 24 Hour Emergency Call

CKI N G

of those who have To all passed our way, go best wishes our very ght holiday! for a bri

403.783.6281

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Tread Pro Tire Centre

And

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all our valued friends & customers 5503 54 Street • 403-783-6804

Season’s Greetings From om Our Home To Yours This Christmas Season We Wish To Give A Special Thank You To Families And Friends Who Contribute So Much Throughout The Year.

CE

NT

RE

Wishing you all the creature comforts for a purr-fect holiday season.

We couldn’t have asked for better friends than you.

Blessings of the season and sincere thanks to our many kind neighbors this holiday season.

Northcott Care Centre

4209 48 Ave. • 403-783-4764

PONOKA CO-OP OILS

QUALITY PETROLEUM PRODUCTS 4700 HWY 2A 403-783-4288

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 31

Season’s Greetings

Christmas tidbits The holiday season has arrived, and millions of people across the globe will be celebrating Christmas with their families and friends. The following are some interesting tidbits to share with your loved ones this holiday season.

• Each year, more than three billion Christmas cards are sent in the United States alone. • In 350 AD, Pope Julius I, bishop of Rome, proclaimed December 25 the official celebration date for the birth of Jesus Christ. Many historians and theologians have surmised that Christ really wasn’t born this time of year, thanks to imagery and information from the Bible.

• Christmas carols began as an English custom called “wassailing.” Individuals toasted neighbors to a long and healthy life. • Despite the common tale that three wise men paid homage to baby Jesus, the Bible never specifically calls out a number. Similarly, there’s no specific indication that they visited the infant Jesus. Their visit may have occurred when Jesus was older.

• Santa Claus’ modern look was inspired by writings from The Knickerbockers of New York and imagery from Clement Clarke Moore’s “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” Moore denied

authoring the famous poem for 15 years after it was published anonymously, feeling the poem was beneath his talents.

• Santa has his own official postal code. It’s H0 H0 H0.

• The song “Jingle Bells” was originally written for Thanksgiving and not Christmas. People loved it so much that the lyrics were changed to fit Christmas.

• Christmas trees typically grow for 15 years before they’re cut and sold. This means the trees sold today were likely planted in 1999.

• Christmas was not declared an official holiday in the United States until June 26, 1870.

• Before turkey, the traditional Christmas meal served in England was a pig’s head and mustard.

• Male reindeer tend to shed their antlers in the winter. This means Santa’s reindeer are likely female.

• Christ may have been born in a cave rather than a manger. According to the gospel of Luke, the shepherds that helped find shelter for Mary to give birth kept their flock in a cave. The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is built over a cave called the Grotto of the Nativity, where Jesus is believed to have been

It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas!

Signs of the season are everywhere – The snow on the ground; the chill in the air But our hearts are always warm, this is true, When we turn our thoughts to friends like you!

With gratitude and best wishes for a happy holiday season from all of us.

born.

• Many people may be less inclined to stand under mistletoe waiting for a kiss if they knew what “mistletoe” means in the ancient Germanic language. It literally means “dung on a twig,” for the bird who eats the berries and then leaves seeds in droppings to propagate

new plants.

• Each holiday season, PNC Wealth Management calculates the costs of the gifts in the song, “The 12 Days of Christmas.” The price index for the gifts went from $12,673 in 1984 to more than $24,000 in 2011. The most expensive gift is the swimming swans.

PIZZA D’ORO 2-4-U Pizza & Pasta

#7, 5103 - 48 Ave. 403-783-4460 PICK UP OR DELIVERY

Merry

Christmas!

From All of us, To All of You! HOURS:

Mon - Thurs Friday Saturday Sun & Holidays CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS

403-783-3315 • 5013 49 Avenue, Ponoka rpa@rowlandparker.ca

3pm - 11pm 11am - 11pm 3pm - 11pm 4pm - 10pm

32 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and A HAPPY NEW YEAR From the Staff and Board of Directors of

Calnash Ag Event Centre

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 33

Season’s Greetings

Test your Xmas knowledge The name of Scrooge’s deceased business partner in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol was?

What is the name of Tiny Tim’s father in the story, “A Christmas Carol”?

In the traditional song, “Go Tell It on the Mountain”, what are you suppose to go tell on a mountain?

According to the song, “Frosty The Snowman” what kind of soul does Frosty have?

Santa has a “Naughty and Nice” list. How many times does he check it?

What did Frosty The Snowman have for a nose?

How many gifts would you receive if you received all of the gifts in the song “The Twelve Days of Christmas”?

In the song “Winter Wonderland”, who do we pretend the snowman is?

In the movie “Miracle on 34th Street”, a man is on trial for claiming to be Santa Claus.

What convinces the judge to rule in the man’s favor?

True or False: Joseph was the one that told Mary she was going to have a baby.

In the Christmas Song, who did I (the narrator) see kissing Santa Claus under the mistletoe last night?

How many reindeer usually pull Santa’s sleigh on a clear night?

One foggy Christmas Eve, Santa needed help guiding his slegh through the stormy night. Who did he ask for help?

Santa’s has a favourite snack.

Children often leave it out for him on Christmas Eve. What is it?

Answers at xmasfun.com

Country Christmas Wishes May this festive season bring joy and happiness to you all!

WISHING YOU THE VERY BEST THIS HOLIDAY SEASON With our thanks from the staff at

With Our Thanks We appreciate your business all year long. Happy Holiday!

BOB“Better RONNIE C ATERING Than Good” 403-783-8274

5031 - 50 Ave

Email: owner@accuprinting.ca

403-783-6860 Bay 5, 4110 64 St. www.bobronniecatering.com

403-790-2700

Bay #2, 5012 48 Ave. (located next to Ponoka Dental Centre)

34 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Ponoka Chrysler Jeep purchased two trees at the 2015 Festival of Trees silent auction. One was kept for the dealership showroom and the other was donated to Sunrise Village for the patrons to enjoy the beauty. Jae Stiles, General Sales Manager (right) and Les Sherrer, sales consultant (far right) present the tree to Sunrise Village employees (left) Jennifer Moores, Stephanie Waldron, Catalin Zueger and (middle right) Andrea Evans.

Submitted photo

Welcome The Season!

THERE’S NO TIME LIKE CHRISTMAS TO LET YOU KNOW HOW MUCH WE VALUE YOUR BUSINESS AND SUPPORT.

MERRY CHRISTMAS! From the Staff of

403-783-3456

6403 - 44 AVENUE, PONOKA

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 35

Season’s Greetings

Make a child’s first holiday special A baby’s life is filled with milestones. First smiles, first steps and first words are just a few of the moments parents will treasure.

A baby’s first holiday season is another special time to cherish.

Shoppers seeking gifts to make a baby’s first holiday special have many clever, cute and functional items to choose from. Several of these gifts can become keepsakes to be tucked into memory boxes for growing kids to look at later in life.

• Christmas pajamas: What better way to await for the arrival of Christmas than in a pair of snuggly pajamas? Send pajamas ahead of Christmas Day so that new parents will have plenty of adorable photo opportunities as their baby boy or girl tears open the gifts. Stores stock several different fun and festive prints, or look into pajamas that can be personalized.

• Photo print package: Photography packages can involve the entire expanding family and will catalog special moments in time. Purchase studio or on-location time with a private photographer, or use one of the popular photography chains found in malls and department stores.

• Personalized framed print: Commemorate the first holiday season with your child by getting a print made with his or her name and age. Leave a space on the print so that the child’s parents can customize it even further with their son or daughter’s footprints.

Include a matted frame and child-safe ink or paint to complete the gift.

• Keepsake ornament: Some families embrace the tradition of adding a new ornament to their

Christmas trees each year. Purchase an ornament for the new baby with the year so he or she can join in the tradition.

• Crochet or knit blanket: Crafty individuals can make a blanket that the newest addition to the family can enjoy during the chilly days of winter. These blankets often become treasured keepsakes that may be passed down throughout the family or kept tucked away for kids so they can give them to their own children once they start their own families.

• Rocking horse: Babies don’t wait long before they start to run around and climb. A classic rocking horse

makes for a fun baby gift, and rocking horses come in many different styles. If you are the family carpenter, you can even purchase some unfinished wood from a craft store and then make this into a homemade gift your favorite little guy or gal will always cherish.

• Piggy bank: Foster good saving habits by gifting a personalized piggy bank. Get kids off on the right foot by depositing a few dollars into the bank before giving the gift.

A new baby brings many changes and fun experiences. Gift-givers can make a baby’s first holiday season one filled with joy and whimsy with creative gift ideas.

Thoughtful gifts can make this first holiday season one of joy for new children in the family.

With Thanks for Your Business Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Collision Centre

6605 - 44 Avenue

403-783-1895

Have a Very

Merry Christmas!

Wishing you and loved ones much peace, harmony, joy and contentment this holiday season.

Thank you for your friendship and support.

403-783-2199 #1, 6602 41 Ave (South Industrial Park) Ponoka, AB

Tel: 403-783-6140 Fax: 403-704-1708 www.morskatemanufacturing.com

36 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

For your palatal holiday Gorgonzola Beef Wellingtons Ingredients 8 beef tenderloin steaks (6 to 8 ounces each) 1/2 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon salt, divided 1/2 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon pepper, divided 4 tablespoons butter, divided 1 pound medium fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced 2 shallots, finely chopped 6 garlic cloves, minced 1 package (17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry, thawed 1 cup (4 ounces) crumbled Gorgonzola cheese 2 eggs, beaten 4 cups reduced-sodium beef broth 1/2 cup Madeira wine or additional reduced-sodium beef broth 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 teaspoon dried thyme Add to Shopping List

Directions 1 Sprinkle steaks with 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper. In a large skillet, brown steaks in 2 tablespoons butter in batches. Remove from the skillet; cool slightly and refrigerate until chilled.

2 In the same skillet, saute mushrooms and shallots in remaining butter until tender.

Add the garlic and remaining salt and pepper; cook 1 minute longer.

3 On a lightly floured surface, roll each puff pastry sheet into a 14-in square. Cut into four 6-1/2-in. squares (use scraps to make decorative cutouts if desired).

4 Place 2 tablespoons cheese in the center of each square; top with 3 tablespoons mushroom mixture and a steak. Lightly brush pastry edges with egg. Bring opposite corners of pastry over steak; pinch seams to seal tightly.

5 Place seam side down in a greased 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan. Cut four small slits in top of pastry. Arrange cutouts over tops if desired. Brush with egg. Bake at 425° for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and meat reaches desired doneness (for medium-rare, a thermometer should read 145°; medium, 160°; well-done, 170°).

Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, combine broth and wine. Bring to a boil; cook until

liquid is reduced by half, about 30 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and thyme. Serve with beef wellingtons. Yield: 8 servings.

Nutritional Facts 1 beef wellington with 1/4 cup sauce equals 707 calories, 38 g fat (15 g saturated fat), 158 mg cholesterol, 863 mg sodium, 42 g carbohydrate, 6 g fiber, 49 g protein.

We’re Rounding Up Our Thanks Peace, Joy, Harmony

T hanks!

HOLIDAY HOURS

December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31 January 1, 2016

8 am - 6 pm CLOSED 9 am - 6 pm 9 am - 5 pm 12 pm - 5 pm

Thank you for your friendship and support.

Management & staff

Central Office Supplies Corp.

4502 - 50 ST. PONOKA 403-783-5568

5026 50 Ave • 403-783-2299 www.centralofficesupplies.com

You’re the best bunch of pardners we’ve ever had Your support and your friendship have made us most glad So we hope that your holiday brings you much cheer And enough good fortune to ride out the year!

We wish you the best of holidays and look forward to seeing you soon.

Jim & Faye Avery & family Shandall Plumbing Ltd. 403-783-6372 Kelly & Lana Avery & family RAFTER A ENTERPRISES

Farrier Services

403-588-2997

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Season’s Greetings

PONOKA NEWS 37

Ponoka’s Christmas Store

Merry Christmas Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

We appreciate your business and look forward to serving you in the New Year

Wishing Everyone a

Wishing you a Joyous Holiday Season and a New Year filled with Health and Happiness.

PONOKA HOSPITAL & CARE CENTRE

5800 - 57 Ave. • 403-783-3341

Merry Christmas From all of us at

• Automatic Wash • Wand Wash • Dog Wash • Truck/RV Wash GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

Phone: 403-783-2600 Fax: 403-783-4500 3519 - 2A HWY PONOKA Locally owned and operated

403-783-8190 5008 51 Avenue flowrs4u@telusplanet.net www.ponokaflowersforyou.ca

38 PONOKA NEWS

Season’s Greetings

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Make holiday decorating easier this year

Follow a few strategies to make easy work of holiday decorating

It is not the holiday season until homes, stores and town centers are decorated in lights and tinsel.

When entire neighborhoods are enhanced by bows and animated figurines, the celebratory tone is set and decorations can trigger happy feelings associated with holiday gatherings.

Some people find holiday decorating enjoyable and eagerly anticipate taking out storage containers and sorting through all of their memory-laden trinkets, while others are less enthusiastic about readying their homes for the season. No matter which group you fall into, the following are some simple tips to make holiday decorating easier.

• Plan to decorate on a day when you do not have any other responsibilities. Choose to decorate on a day when you can devote your full attention to decorating, avoiding a day when you might be distracted by other things. If you prefer to decorate alone, ask a friend to watch the

wishing you a

Merry Christmas

kids or have a spouse take them out of the house for a few hours.

If decorating is a family event, find a day when everyone’s schedules are clear.

• Take out the decorations the day prior.

Hauling boxes and containers from the attic or basement can take a while. Take some time to move all of the decorating items to a main floor of the house the day or night before your decorating marathon. This way you won’t get discouraged or tired by the task even before the real decorating has begun.

• Put the tree up first.

The Christmas tree is the a focal point of holiday decorations, so set up the tree and decorate it before you get started on decorating the rest of the house.

If you do not get to all of your other decorating, at least the tree will be ready and your home will still have some holiday appeal.

Once the lights are on, decorating the tree is a great activity for keeping the kids busy while you handle other jobs.

• Divide and conquer.

Nothing makes holiday

decorating go faster than delegating decorating tasks. Assign specific tasks to your helpers. Put one person in charge of decorating the living room while another handles the outside lights, wreaths and inflatable items.

• Turn on the tunes.

Working to music frequently takes your mind off of the work and will help pass the time more quickly. Have your favorite holiday playlist at the ready and turn up the volume. Sing along to the carols or contemporary songs while you are elbow-deep in decorations.

• Take some breaks.

Working hungry or tired may lead to sloppy work or frustration.

There’s little chance of untangling a knot in the lights with your patience in tact if you haven’t eaten for hours.

Plan some time for lunch while you sit and rest. Survey the work you’ve done and make a list of the next steps.

After the hard work of decorating, you’ll likely have a sense of accomplishment. Now it’s time to enjoy the holiday scene and prepare for the excitement of the weeks ahead.

To all our friends both far and near, We wish a very bright Christmas and a happy New Year!

CHROME

SAFE FETY T SERVICES LT L D.

Christi Ferguson-Huston, CRSP Lacombe 403-782-0455 www.chromesafety.ca May Him whose birthday we celebrate, bring you blessing of peace, joy and time to reflect on the important things in life during this special Christmas season

Our entire staff wishes you and your family members a sparkling holiday season.

DENTAL CLINIC

403-783-6497

The First Step to Making your Dreams Come True.

5118 - 51 Ave., Ponoka, AB 403-783-5225 www.birchlanddental.ca

Deck the Halls! with a round of best wishes to all our good friends at Christmas

A&J AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR 6701 - 46 Ave. • Ponoka, AB

403-783-8755

Al Dickhaut • Owner/Operator

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Grandma got run over by a reindeer Grandma got run over by a reindeer Walking home from our house Christmas eve You can say there’s no such thing as Santa But as for me and Grandpa, we believe She’d been drinkin’ too much egg nog And we’d begged her not to go But she’d left her medication So she stumbled out the door into the snow When they found her Christmas mornin’ At the scene of the attack There were hoof prints on her forehead And incriminatin’ Claus marks on her back Grandma got run over by a reindeer Walkin’ home from our house Christmas eve You can say there’s no such thing as Santa But as for me and Grandpa, we believe Now were all so proud of Grandpa He’s been takin’ this so well See him in there watchin’ football Drinkin’ beer and playin’ cards with cousin Belle It’s not Christmas without Grandma All the family’s dressed in black And we just can’t help but wonder Should we open up her gifts or send them back?

Grandma got run over by a reindeer Walkin’ home from our house Christmas eve You can say there’s no such thing as Santa But as for me and Grandpa, we believe Now the goose is on the table And the pudding made of pig And a blue and silver candle That would just have matched the hair in Grandma’s wig I’ve warned all my friends and neighbors Better watch out for yourselves They should never give a license To a man who drives a sleigh and plays with elves Grandma got run over by a reindeer Walkin’ home from our house, Christmas eve You can say there’s no such thing as Santa But as for me and Grandpa, we believe!

Merry Christmas & Many Thanks

A holly jolly Christmas Have a holly, jolly Christmas; It’s the best time of the year I don’t know if there’ll be snow but have a cup of cheer Have a holly, jolly Christmas; And when you walk down the street Say Hello to friends you know and everyone you meet Oh ho the mistletoe hung where you can see; Somebody waits for you; Kiss her once for me Have a holly jolly Christmas and in case you didn’t hear Oh by golly have a holly jolly Christmas this year

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

It’s been a real treat serving you, and we hope your holiday is as special as you are!

Ponoka Fertilizer

PONOKA NEWS 39

Season’s Greetings

Thirsk Automotive Distributors Ltd.

& Happy New Year

6024 - 49 St. 403-783-4103

McDonald’s Restaurant

Service From the Word Grow

4419 - Hwy 2A • 403-783-8927

6603 - 44 Ave. Ponoka

403-783-2921

40 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

to our readers, advertisers and friends for your loyalty and hope that you will take advantage of every moment of happiness in the year to come.

Here ’s to a calm and prosperous new year !