Ponoka News, February 24, 2016

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY Vol. 68, No. 8 | WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 | 403-783-3311 | WWW.PONOKANEWS.COM

Close games for Kings at Shine tournament Story on page 23

The early invasion of the telephone lines Story on page 5

Water main break A water main break Monday, Feb. 22 affected businesses at the 50 Street and 51 Avenue intersection. Crews were on scene early in the morning to deal with the issue and were there through most of the day. Some buildings in the area were without water while crews searched for the cause and fixed the issue. While it is unclear what caused the break, town staff say there are several possible reasons why this would happen, such as pipe age, pipe material and soil conditions, ground and water temperature and changes in pressure.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

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2 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

Trade show prep moving along FCSS informs Chamber on its programs

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS Work on the annual trade fair is right on target.

That was the word from Les Jaster, executive manager for the Ponoka and District Chamber

of Commerce at their monthly meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 16.

“Preparation for the trade fair is continuing.

This year’s theme - Star Wars - is garnering a lot of excitement about this year and gaining us some referrals,” Jaster

explained to the small crowd gathered at the Kinsmen Centre.

As of the time of meeting, there had been 52 booths paid for with Jaster hopeful about 80 per cent being sold out by the middle of March.

A number of sponsors

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for the fair and various events have also been secured, though he is continuing to search out other opportunities.

He added there will be a bit of a different look this year as they are moving the market square and creating something interesting toward the main entrance of the fair that will feature a Star Wars-themed activity.

“It’s going to be great,” he said, while also putting out the call that more volunteers are going to be necessary for

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this year’s fair due to the extra events and activities that are planned.

Jaster also stated that membership activity remains steady.

End of year financials Past president Jim Hamilton spoke on the changes and challenges facing the Chamber in the 2016 budget while also presenting the audience with the final numbers from 2015.

One big issue was that they made nearly $7,000 less from the 2015 trade fair than was budgeted, but Hamilton stated they are optimistic the new theme, and the fact that they are on pace in selling booths, can help them achieve at least the $10,500 in revenue that has been budgeted for this year.

The other difference is that there will be no $5,000 grant from the Town of Ponoka in 2016.

Hamilton explained the money was to help the Chamber with operating funds and since the group is now on more stable financial ground, the grant has been eliminated.

However, that loss has been more than offset by the Chamber office moving last year to free space provided at the Ponoka County municipal building. The Chamber was previously in the Visitor Information Centre and was paying $9,000 in rent annually.

Some of those savings, though, are now being spent on storage space the Chamber no longer has available at its office, as well as a small increase in travel expenses for Jaster to attend the Canadian Chamber of Commerce annual meeting that is being held this year in Regina.

Featured speaker Shannon BoyceCampbell, executive director of Family and Community Support Services in Ponoka was the guest speaker at the meeting and talked to the crowd about an important, but not well known, project that FCSS operates.

Through their participation in the Ponoka/ Rimbey Palliative Care Council, FCSS provides reusable items such as sheepskin overlays and low pressure air mattresses to patients and families giving care to someone who is terminally ill. They also assist individuals in finding any specialized equipment that isn’t covered under other programs and work with people to provide palliative care training for volunteers.

“We help people who have made that decision to be at home and with a definitely aging population in the area, our role is now even more important,” said BoyceCampbell.

She added that while the programs are there, they are not as visible to the majority of the public and presently they feel they are being underutilized since a lot of people who could use them are not aware they are available.

That includes a pair of funds that provide money to people for services that aren’t covered in other fashions as well as to help cancer patients with certain expenses.

“We have a couple of unique funds that serve to provide access to items and services that people who need medical help can’t otherwise pay for plus help those going through cancer treatment and diagnosis with related expenses,” she said.

FCSS also has funds available for those suffering from MS and diabetes with Boyce-Campbell giving a nod of thanks to Shoppers Drug Mart for the tremendous fundraising support they have received from the store for these programs.

She concluded stating, “If you or someone you know in need with medical issues, please contact us and also help spread the word that these programs are available.”

For more information about these programs, contact Ponoka FCSS at 403-783-4462.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

PONOKA NEWS 3

Residents warned of CRA telephone scams Fraudsters claim debts owed

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Police suggest if someone claiming to be from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) calls demanding money to clear up a past debt, you may want to check with them before acceding to their demands.

Ponoka RCMP have received numerous complaints recently from residents who fell victim to a telephone scam where fraudsters demand money for overdue back taxes or other debts associated with CRA. In a press release, police state that culprits claim victims owe a substantial amount of money.

“The caller claims that payments must be made immediately via e-transfer, MoneyGram or Western Union by using threats of arrest, court or jail,” explain RCMP. In some cases victims have been kept on the phone for hours making threats of arrest, or other serious action,

until the amount is paid.

Police suggest one course of action if this is to occur is to immediately hang up and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or call toll-free at 1-888-495-8501.

Investigators offer several tips to avoid being a victim of this type of fraud: • Treat identity information as valuable; • Never give personal information to people you don’t know; • If someone claims to be from the CRA, ask yourself why they are calling; • Do not be afraid to call the CRA directly who usually communicate via mail and never demand immediate payment; • Police and the RCMP do not call demanding immediate payment for fines over the phone; • When in doubt, hang up and call the police.

WCPS rejects inclusion request from Rimbey Christian Wolf Creek Public Schools briefs

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS Citing their own hard economic situation combined with a number of cost concerns, Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS) has decided it will not absorb an area independent school into its fold.

Earlier this year, the independently operated Rimbey Christian School put forward a request to become part of Wolf Creek as an alternative education opportunity. As a result, WCPS administration undertook a comprehensive review of the school - which included taking a look at everything from its financial situation to bussing, staffing and the building.

That review was completed and presented to the WCPS board of trustees at its meeting on Feb. 18, when the board went with the recommendation of superintendent Larry Jacobs to not go forward with taking on the school at this time.

Along with WCPS currently in the midst of attempting to solve its own deficit of more than $2 million, Jacobs concluded they would need to significantly subsidize the operation of Rimbey Christian as well as inject a large amount of funds for a number of upgrades.

“Their special needs

area is underfunded, we would need to extend our educational psychologist to include them, they need upgrades in staff training especially on inclusion of special needs students into the regular classroom,” Jacobs told the board.

“The staff are paid on a different grid than our current staff so we would need to work directly with them on making the necessary adjustments. Also right now, they don’t pay for bussing and we provide it for free. They couldn’t afford a transportation infrastructure, so that would need to be accommodated.”

In addition, Jacobs explained the technology in the school is extremely out of date and would mean significant spending to replace the entire system plus install new access points for the Internet; as well, there would need to be something worked out

for use of a gymnasium as the school doesn’t have one.

The building is also in need of new windows, has no phone infrastructure like WCPS schools and a number of other maintenance work equirement since that work has so far been done on a purely volunteer basis.

“The facility is in need of a lot of work and their overall budget is only about $800,000, so that means parents and volunteers have been subsidizing it a lot,” said Jacobs.

“There is no upside for the board and in the short term, you would be on the hook for a considerable amount of money.”

Trustee Bob Huff was not enamoured with the thought in the first place and the review just cemented his belief.

continued on page 4

22-year-old charged with possession of child pornography PONOKA NEWS STAFF After several months of investigation, police have charged two men with possession of child pornography.

One 22-year-old Ponoka man was charged as well as a man from Fort McMurray, say police. Initially investigators received a report Sept. 11 that the Ponoka man, whose name was not released, was found to be in possession of child pornography.

Further investigations led to the charge of a Fort McMurray man as well.

The first court appearance of the accused is set for Friday, March 4 at Ponoka Provincial Court.

Theft of animal tags Police are investigating the theft of animal tags from VJV Auction Mart.

The incident occurred sometime between the dates of Jan. 20 to Feb. 18.

Traffic lights mischief After traffic lights on Chipman Avenue and 50 Street stopped functioning Thursday, Feb. 18 motorists called police to determine the issue.

It is believed culprits may have scampered up the traffic lights and unplugged the camera. Police are investigating.

Jack-knifed semi Wintry road conditions are believed to have been the cause of two collisions Feb. 19 on Highway 2.

& CRUISE CENTRE

Members of the Ponoka Integrated Traffic Unit were called to jack-knifed semi tractor just north of Secondary Highway 12 and while enroute, a call came that another semi was blocking the lanes at the Highway 53 exit. No injuries were reported from the incidents.

Impaired driver Police charged a woman with impaired driving after a vehicle check found her to have a warrant for her arrest.

The officer pulled the driver of the vehicle over on Feb. 20 and she was also charged with driving without a licence. the passenger was arrested for possession of a weapon after finding brass knuckles on their person.

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4 PONOKA NEWS

Religion

Your Guide To Local Houses of Worship

Look past the negativity and good will come

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

ROB MCARTHUR Word of Life Church

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PONOKA Sr. Pastor Paul Spate

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

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

I love Ponoka. From the first day I moved here in November of 1997 to now, I can emphatically declare “I love this community”.

However, I am saddened as I reflect on 18 years and recognize that at this present moment there is a higher level of negativity floating around our town than I have ever seen before. I, for one, will not succumb to the negativity trying to envelop the place I have made my home.

Will you?

As I think of how people are responding to things like garbage pickup and the fire department conflict between town and

county, I can’t help but recognize that negativity has an uncanny ability to magnify and distort the truth. Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad”. Anxiety is built upon what might happen. It has the ability to affect every area of life and thrives off of “what if”. If you are looking at circumstances within our community or in your life with cynicism and/or bitterness, your perspective of the truth more than likely has become magnified and distorted in a destructive way.

Secondly, negativity is a reflection of inner defeat. You can easily tell the content of a person’s heart by listening to the words they speak (or post on Facebook!). In your day

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

continued from page 3 “It’s in competition with our current schools in Rimbey and I’m not sure it would even survive.”

Another trustee, Barb Walker, added that it isn’t prudent or a good choice for WCPS to take on another small school at this time.

Trustees then approved a motion to reaffirm they remain with the status quo compliment of schools for the next school year.

Budget assumptions An attempt to get some feedback on the current assumptions administration makes when it draws up its budget figures generated some discussion about the present economic reality facing WCPS. Secretary-treasurer Joe Henderson presented trustees with a list of assumptions administration uses in different areas to come up with estimated figures for the budget it presents annually and asked for some feedback

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

to day life, do you listen to the words you speak?

Jesus said, “for out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks”. Are we aware of the anxiety we express or the hopelessness we confess when we complain?

Lastly, I have found that negativity makes sweeping statements and harsh judgments. What’s the real issue? It is easy to watch people from a distance, whether they be our neighbors, our elected leaders or government administrators, and make sweeping judgments about them.

Sadly, the need to criticize or pull down comes from a negative condition within our own hearts.

Negativity will rob you of the great future God intends for you. I believe God wants to make our

town great, so challenge the negativity in your life.

You can begin to change things by choosing to see the good in every circumstance. Develop a lens that sees the good rather than the negative. Overcoming negativity is much like put on a pair of polarized lenses. The first time I put on a pair of glasses with polarized lenses, I was shocked at how well I could see everything. I suddenly saw details that I had overlooked before. They had always been there, but now I could see them.

In the midst of some of the speed bumps Ponoka has run into in the last year or two are some good things. Choose to look past the negativity and see the good that can and will come from every circumstance.

WCPS rejects inclusion request

Phone: 403-783-4087

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on them. He also included some assumptions that some larger school boards use that may have less impact on WCPS than others do.

However, the issue went a bit sideways briefly when Huff began focusing on the division’s present deficit and how their reserves are continually being eaten away at.

“If this trend continues, we are going to lose our reserves in a few years. Once we get to that point, we will have no more money to maintain things without cuts,” he said.

Huff added that increased pressure from a rising population, more special needs and English as a Second Language instruction and the push toward lower or no school fees - without a jump in provincial funding - is putting school boards in a tough spot, especially with the way the economy is now.

“With all of this, I think we need an assumption that we use our reserves cautiously. With the economic situation, we may not be able to collect those fees anyway,” he said.

In the end, all of the assumptions that were presented - with an additional one concerning the judicious use of reserves - were approved by the board.

Concussions The issue surrounding concussions among youth athletics was brought forward at the request of Trustee Donna Peterson, though there is still more work to be done.

Administration was handed the issue earlier this month and requested to see what is being done by school divisions in the province on the issue.

Jacobs explained to the board that no divisions in Alberta have a policy or protocol regarding concussions, nor do the provincial associations that look after school boards or school athletics. He stated there are some in Ontario, and that he is continuing his search for more information on the topic and will stay in contact with the Alberta Schools Athletic Association as they may be building something that mimics what is being done in Ontario.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

PONOKA NEWS 5

Reflections of Ponoka

The early invasion of the telephone lines

BY MIKE RAINONE FOR THE NEWS When the first telephone rang in the busy old workshop of Alexander Graham Bell in 1876, it would mark the humble but exciting beginnings of the amazing new era of communications that would spread rapidly across the urban and rural areas of our nation as well as throughout the world from the early 1900s and up to the present day.

As early as 1881, the newly formed Bell Telephone Company of Canada had grabbed most of the telephone interests in Canada, but many of these were declared void in 1885 and would open the door allowing several hundred smaller companies to acquire the rights to install and operate the vital services to all areas. Historical decisions in 1908-1909 included the purchase by the provincial governments to purchase all of the Bell Telephone Company operations in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

The formation of AGT In Alberta, the powerful pressure of our first provincial government, under the leadership of flamboyant Premierelect Alexander C. Rutherford would force the Bell Telephone Company to sell off all their holdings in the province for $675,000. The government then began to operate the telephone service as a public utility, which would be known as Alberta Government Telephones. At the time of the takeover, Bell had completed only a few lines between Edmonton and Calgary, but with rapid expansion and re-organization the AGT would hire many talented power line crews made up of young men from Canada, the USA and throughout the world to proceed with the rapid expansion of the telephone services.

These hardy crews worked long hours in all seasons and faced all sorts of terrain and challenges as they erected the poles and strung thousands of miles of lines across our province. In some of the early photos that I found, these brave

cable men were shown hanging above a raging flooded river repairing a broken telephone pole and living in rough camps in the wilderness as they cleared the way and sunk the tall wooden poles into the ground. By 1922, over 20,000 Alberta farmers had the joy of a telephone, and thousands of other families and businesses were receiving service from over 8,000 miles of long distance lines. This AGT ‘telephone mania’ continued to sweep through Alberta until 1991 when it was purchased by Telus for $870,000,000.

Telephones arrive in Ponoka and districts Before Ponoka had a telephone exchange or any telephones at all, there were two toll stations at Water Glen and Asker, both operated through Wetaskiwin. It was indeed an exciting day in 1908 when the first Ponoka Telephone Exchange was opened in the dispensary of McKinnell’s Drug store, which would serve 35 telephones and two country lines under the direction of Miss Lillie Sayers (Goodman).

By 1950, the local telephone office had expanded to include fourteen operators working five boards and grew rapidly as our population had zoomed from 836 in 1931 to 3244 in 1953.

Out in the districts, the farmers used the ‘crank phones’, controlled by a series of ring codes, which would get the neighbour along the always busy and open to all party line or connect to a usually friendly operator in town. Eventually, all the old style phones were being replaced by the modern dial models in the 1960s, but sadly, over the years, most of the original lines and poles were rotting or had fallen down and were only used by the birds. In the roaring 70s, the Alberta Government Telephones were putting all their lines underground, which, over the years, have been rapidly expanded by Telus to serve close to 14 million Canadian customers with all sorts of wild and wonderful electronic services and toys.

Photo courtesy of Alberta Picture History

This amazing early 1900s picture shows one of the many hardy crews who set the poles and strung thousands of miles of telephone lines throughout the province for the Alberta Government Telephones Public Utility Company.

Remember When...

Photo courtesy of Fort Ostell Museum

The farm at the Provincial Mental Hospital near Ponoka was built in 1915 and would soon become the largest operation of its kind in Alberta. As well as the modern buildings and equipment, the hospital farm played host to a prime herd of Holsteins, pigs, 10,000 chickens and turkeys, and a colony of bees, featured dorms for the working patients and homes for the staff, and was surrounded by 100 acres of potatoes and vegetables. It would all close in 1970.

6 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

Opinion

Ponoka’s possible infrastructure woes

MUSTAFA ERIC Editor

As you may have seen on the front page, we have had a second water main broken in Ponoka in less than a month, causing flooding and requiring some serious repair work. Monday’s second incident follows the one

at the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex two weeks prior, which forced the postponement of the Ponoka Stampeders’ last game of their hockey season.

While the breakdowns of the water mains coming one after another in such a short span of time may, of course, be purely coincidence, they might also be giving us some signals as to whether there is a need for a comprehensive review of where the town’s infrastructure stands with regard to its lifespan.

Readers should remember that in our stories reflecting the town council discussions on the matter of North Bridge replacement, we have extensively reported on the conversations at the council chambers referring to how the renovation of the structure had been delayed for years

and how the bridge is still being used despite having exhausted its originally planned lifecycle and how previous councils and administrations have failed to set aside/allocate funds for the bridge and more generally for infrastructure renovation.

So one would be fairly justified to think that the same negligence shown in the matter of the North Bridge could have been the case for the broader infrastructure picture.

If the latest two instances of water main breakdowns are in fact signs of things to come, they certainly come at a bad time, bad because the town is already preparing to spend some, actually more than some, a lot of money to establish its own full-fledged fire department.

Currently we don’t know if the town administration

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

has a study, either planned or recently conducted, to depict a realistic picture of where the town’s infrastructure currently sits in view of its history.

One hopes that with a new chief administrative officer and a new communications officer installed at the town office, residents might be better informed about how town business is planned and conducted and then we may be in a better position to see whether we are in for some serious tax hikes to pay for the upgrades in addition to the fire service expenditures.

But we also need to remember that infrastructure renovation is something that is on the agenda of all three levels of government in the country.

The federal government has already made known its plans to spend up to

Mustafa Eric Editor

Jeff Heyden-Kaye Reporter

$10 billion in the next budget cycle to stimulate economic growth while also serving the purpose of infrastructure renewal.

And in the course of the meetings the federal cabinet ministers have been having with provincial and municipal government representatives over the last several weeks, there appears to be emerging a tendency on the part of the feds to directly channel funds to entities, either provincial or municipal, but mostly municipal, for so called “shovel-ready” projects.

One would think it would be good for the Town of Ponoka to be a in a position to be able to produce a few plans for such projects as that kind of readiness would undoubtedly put the town in an advantage to solicit funds under whatever program

Jordie Dwyer Reporter

they might be offered.

But as far as the available information is concerned, the town council and administration have been mostly busy since the 2013 municipal elections with a recreation master plan, which is nowhere near being shovel ready, and lately, with the separation of the fire services from the county, which would hardly be seen as justifying new resources by any funding authority as it contradicts the trend of unifying service provision in the name of cutting costs.

When the budget is announced in full details on March 22, we will be in a better position to know if the lost time over controversial matters in the last two and a half years in Ponoka will also be the reason for missing much needed funding.

Karen Douglass Sales

Susan Whitecotton Administration

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

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

PONOKA NEWS 7

County learns of plans to improve water quality Gull Lake to get work done, Chain Lakes is hopeful

BY JORDIE DWYER PONOKA NEWS Efforts to improve the quality of water in one of two area lakes has taken a leap forward while work on another has stalled somewhat.

Craig McLeod, Ray Prins and Doug Bradley - representatives of the Gull Lake Watershed Society - made a presentation to Ponoka County council at its Tuesday, Feb. 9 meeting in order to provide them with information on what steps are being taken to better manage the quality of the lake’s water to the benefit of all users.

Called the Gull Lake Wetlands Project, the society has teamed up with a number of stakeholders in the area in hopes that improved stewardship of the sensitive ecological region will sustain the lake for years to come and not fall into a similar cycle that has befallen nearby Pigeon Lake.

“This (project) is a win-win scenario. We have a good relationship developed with the local agriculture community and a willingness to work together,” McLeod stated.

“Wetlands and settling ponds are more than something that is simply annoying, it’s amazing what cattails and reeds can do to improving the quality and cleaning water.”

The overall project will see the society, the Summer Village of Parkland Beach, some area farmers as well as potentially Ducks Unlimited working to create some settling ponds and enhanced wetland habitat. Some of the work will be done on municipal reserve land set aside with the Twin Creeks subdivision with other work set for the east side of the lake near Raymond Shores and further work to divert runoff in the summer village to a more natural area where it can be filtered somewhat before entering the lake.

“From the fields that are plowed, there is a strong runoff into the lake. The highest flows are from the creek at the north end. The work being planned will help prevent the blue-green algae formations by allowing the two main nutrient loading factors that cause it - phosphorus and nitrogen - to settle out,” McLeod explained.

“The wetlands and settling ponds will also replenish and restore groundwater in addition to other benefits.”

McLeod stated the group’s wake up call came two years ago when the lake was hit with its first blue-green algae warning by Alberta Health.

“We wanted to be proactive in turning this ship around,” he said.

That’s when they began to look at what options there were, since many of the problems causing the issue of poor water quality stemmed from development plans from the 1970s.

“The agricultural development done back then - by taking out natural wetlands to expand culivated land - created a lot of the problems that we need to fix by restoring the constructive wetlands to store water and let those nutrients settle,” Prins said.

McLeod added that they approached Ducks Unlimited as a way of being able to tap into some available money for the estimated $61,000 project. Although, the group may down the road ask the county for either financial or in-kind assistance.

“That cost is with all of the excavating and finishing work, which could be cut down if some of the work doesn’t have to be contracted out,” he said.

“If all of the sites in our inventory were completed and implemented within Lacombe and Ponoka counties over the next five to seven years, the lake would be healthier than it has been in years. There has been good buy-in (from all stakeholders) and the projects I mentioned could be kickstarted very quickly.”

The one suggestion the group had for Ponoka County was that they continue to implement the best practices of road construction and subdivision development in their projects in order to better assist with natural wetlands and drainage patterns so as not to negatively affect the lake.

Reeve Paul McLauchlin did have one additional suggestion for the group to consider and that would be to engage Ducks Unlimited to perform a wetlands assessment as it might be helpful in future planning and potentially provide ideas to further improve water flows and quality.

Meanwhile, Joanne McMillan from the stakeholders group at Chain Lakes explained they are continuing efforts

Gull Lake is coming under threat of pollution from various sources. to address water quality issues, but are struggling with membership and they are curious as to when a hydrogeological assessment of the lakes will be done.

County chief administrative officer Charlie Cutforth noted that there are presently five water quality monitoring stations around Gull Lake and that something similar could be done at Chain Lakes.

“We are quite a bit behind where the Gull Lake group is and our group is diminishing,” McMillan said.

“It’s been helpful to have Craig (McLeod) as a contact and we’ve been in touch with the technical people at Alberta

File photo

Environment that have been assigned to look at the data.

We are in the beginning stages and then we can begin to look where the contamination is coming from. Ultimately it comes down to land stewardship and I anticipate it being a rough go with nearly 100 per cent of the area running intensive livestock operations.

“In order to try to give value to water, we all need to work together so that both can thrive.”

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8 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

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Photo by Jordie Dwyer

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PONOKA NEWS 9 Town of Ponoka C, 4900 - 54 Street, Ponoka, AB T4J 1N8 Town phone: 403-783-4431 Town email: town@ponoka.org

AQUAPLEX UPDATE There have been some exciting changes at the Ponoka Aquaplex in the past few months. After discovering that two thirds of our patronage stems from leisure use, we raised the main pool temperature to eighty-six degrees and added public swims from 9:30am to 11:30am and from 1pm to 4pm Monday to Friday. We also added a designated lap lane during every public swim and family swim. In addition to increasing availability, the extra swims and designated lap lane have allowed us to advertise private swim lessons for any age, at any time (except during swim club and aquasize). We also now offer more daytime pool rentals for local schools (Ponoka, Clive, and Rimbey) and user groups such as the Ponoka Youth Centre, Catholic Social Services, and FCSS. These rentals included open swims and swim lessons.

Patron response to these initiatives has been very positive. The additional daytime swims and programing would not be possible without the addition of our new Head Lifeguard and additional daytime staff members.

In February, we began a Junior Lifeguard Club (JLC). We currently have twenty participants coached by two of our Aquaplex supervisors who are Red Cross and Lifesaving Society certified instructors. The JLC will run until April 29 after which we will be offering Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, and Bronze Cross courses throughout the summer. Our intention with these courses is to aid JLC members maintain lessons learned in the JLC and to encourage local youth to pursue a career as professional lifeguards (hopefully with the Town of Ponoka). The JLC will resume in September after our annual shutdown.

In April, we are hosting a National Lifeguarding (NL) course. So far, we have three local registrants and with an advertisement on the Lifesaving Society website we are hoping to gain more. We are planning to run another NL course in the middle of the summer. Last year we had the most swim lesson registrations ever and we are very excited to continue that trend this summer. None of the items mentioned would be possible without the help of our wonderful community, so thank you Ponoka for all of your support.

Ponoka Fire Department Weekly Report

Last Week The Ponoka Fire Department responded to 4 Emergency calls.

• 2 MVC’s • 1 Industrial Accident • 1 Vehicle Fire

Reminder: if your business requires an annual fire inspection, please contact the fire station to make an appointment – 403-783-0112.

HOMETOWN NEWS FEATURE NEWS

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR WASTE CART IS MISSED ON COLLECTION DAY If your waste cart was not emptied on your scheduled day, please call 403-783-0159 within 24 hours.

If your cart was set out properly and on time and you report the miss, GFL will retrieve the missed waste on the next scheduled day.

When setting your cart out on collection day, please remember: • Place your cart out by 7 am on your collection day.

• Position the cart facing forward at the front curb.

• Ensure there’s space. Leave 1 metre (3 ft.) on each side, between carts and parked vehicles.

COUNCIL UPDATES Next meeting of Council: Tuesday, March 08, 2016, and Committee of Whole on March 17, 2016. Please note these meetings 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 The Waste Transfer Station will be closed on Thursday, February 25 from 11 am to 1 pm. We apologize for any inconvenience.

HOMETOWN EVENTS

Ponoka Season Ender 3 on 3 Hockey Tournament will be held March 21 – 24. Please contact Wes Amendt at wes.amendt@ ponoka.org or 403-783-0118 for more information.

Volunteer Opportunities – volunteers are needed for the following events. If you are interested, please contact wes.amendt@ ponoka.org or call 403-783-0118 • Community Wellness Fair • Canada 150 Mosaic • Two Special Event Planning Committees for (Canada Day & Ponoka Day in the Park) Westview Park & Co-op Park Playground Development Meeting - March 9, 7:00 pm at the Hudson’s Green Activity Centre.

Design options available from 5 different playground companies. Everyone welcome.

Ponoka Parks, Recreation & Culture Advisory Committee - Accepting application for Town & Country representation. Applications available on Town of Ponoka website. Next meeting Wednesday, March 9 5:00-7:00 pm at Hudson’s Green Activity Centre.

Ponoka Community Program Guide Spring/Summer Edition - Deadline for Submissions is March 31, 2016 For more info on any of these items contact wes.amendt@ponoka.org

Aquaplex News

• Designated lap lane all day (except during morning aquasize and swim club), pools are open all day (except during swim club).

• Public swims are from 9:30-11:30am and from 1-4pm Monday through Friday • Spring break lessons register now limited space!

• We are offering a National Lifeguard course from March 28 - April 1, the cost is $225.00.

• We are offering private swim lessons for all ages, anytime, any day (except during morning aquasize and swim club).

10 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

Young Ponoka woman takes first step in modelling career

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS A chance click on a webpage ad for models and singers landed one young Ponoka woman in an experience of a lifetime, and it’s only just begun.

Stefanie-Ann Rose was sitting on her computer back in August when she saw an official ad on Facebook from a variety of modelling and singing agencies looking for talent. For some reason, Rose decided to click on the ad, which provided her with an application form.

She sat and stared at the application for more than an hour before taking any action.

Fast forward to today, Rose has already taken two trips, the most recent of which was to

New York City for a singing and acting workshop.

Her ability to sing was what she felt would give her an edge.

“I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember,” said Rose in an interview.

After filling out the application to a Los Angeles agency called Undiscovered Talent Group (UTG), Rose was picked to go to auditions in Calgary. She cleared the first hurdle and travelled to Los Angeles for the International P re s e n t a t i o n of Performers early this year where judges and agents from around the country checked out the talent.

The showcase required candidates to sing, act and model. Rose got seven call backs and she was one of 12 who were picked by talent

In just six months after filling out a modelling application, Stefanie-Ann Rose has been signed with Crawford, an international modelling and acting agency. Here she poses Friday, Feb. 19 Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye before her trip to New York City for a modelling workshop. agents. Since then she has signed non-exclusive

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contracts with three different agencies including The Crawford Agency, an international talent group.

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has United States offices in New York, Miami and Hollywood, and works with both actors and models,” states a press release from the group.

Rose hopes to leverage the strength of each of these agencies to grow her singing and acting career. The whole experience has so far developed relatively quickly and while it was nerve wracking at times, she also feels it is something to remember.

“Somebody pinch me,” she joked.

She said the agents felt her looks were ideal to play parts as a teenager or slightly older and despite being 24, and although most talent scouts look for younger talent, they found her adept at auditions.

For mother Diane, this has been an exciting time. “I always knew that Stefanie had a talent behind her.”

Rose’s most recent trip to New York gave her a chance to learn more about her work and included courses in singing, monologues and commercial work.

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PONOKA NEWS 11

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2015 F150 SUPERCAB XLT 4X4

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2015 F250 LARIAT DIESEL CREW CAB

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C1381

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T1277

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2015 MUSTANG I4 COUPE PREMIUM 2015 F350 LARIAT DIESEL CREW CAB

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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

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L0573

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T1161A

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2014 F150 FX4 LUXURY

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*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

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12 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

All about the old rules and Noah’s wisdom cried together, made lots of friends, loved family outings, and always took some precious time each week to sit down together and share a good old honest ‘beef and bouquet’ session. Of course, this delicate ‘family formula’ never was and will be anywhere near perfect, but somehow through the good times and the bad, we will work real

hard and compromise, manage to survive, and stay friends for life. The greatest reward as we look back is sharing the memories of our magic journey of ‘all in the family’ with our own children and grandchildren, as well as always striving to be loyal neighbours and friends. Bottom line, has it really changed that much from yesterday to

today? Probably a little more complicated with a whole lot more 24-7 attractions and distractions for all ages, which only clarifies the upmost importance of keeping the ‘family circle’ intact to cope with it all. Maybe it all can be accomplished by simply following ‘Noah’s’ rules from many centuries ago before that lifesaving arc set sail.

*Don’t miss the boat; remember that we are all in the same boat together; plan ahead…it wasn’t raining when the arc was built; don’t listen to critics…just get on with the job and get it done; build your future on high ground; for safety’s sake travel in pairs; speed isn’t always an advantage… the snails were on board with the cheetahs; when

we are stressed, float awhile; always remember that the arc was built by amateurs and the Titanic by professionals; no matter what the storm, there will always be a rainbow waiting; and always try to stay fit, because like good old Noah, when we are 60 years old, someone may ask us to do something really big. Have a great week, all of you.

MIKE RAINONE HAMMERTIME

When we were kids, and for me that was about 60 years ago, you and I lived by a pretty strict set of day-to-day rules, where the cardinal household ultimatum was to do as you are told or face the consequences. Some of these old time rules of growing up may have included chores and homework first and play later, keep your room clean, be polite and respect your elders, eat what is put in front of you for meals after you have washed your hands, in bed by 8 p.m. on weekdays except for holidays, share, no lies, and be nice, especially to your little brothers and sisters. The bottom line of our very existence and survival in those wild and wonderful days of our youth was that excuses and tall tales usually never worked around parents and teachers, and if we crossed the line, the punishment wasn’t far behind.

It all sounds pretty boring, doesn’t it? But then again, if we stayed in line, at least most of the time, there were usually lots of perks along the way for tots to teens such as summer holidays and camp, sleepovers and sleep-outs, pets, birthday parties, going to the school dance without parents, some of those new clothes that everyone else was wearing, a new bike, a very small allowance, and even staying out later on Friday nights, and maybe even the use of the family car… As a family, we somehow managed to learn and look forward to eating together, going to church together, playing together, laughed and

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PONOKA NEWS 13

Seatbelt safety winner poster on Highway 2A

Folks at the Ermineskin Cree Nation unveiled the winners of their seat belt awareness poster competition Monday, Feb. 22. (l-r) Const. Nicholas Fetterman, first place winner Nolan Omeasoo-Minde Grade 2 Ermineskin Elm, Kokum Lucinda Minde, mother of the winner Nicole Minde, and Constable Lin Tuapolo.

Photo submitted

PONOKA NEWS STAFF A campaign to create seat belt safety awareness on the Ermineskin Cree Nation proved fruitful with winners announced Monday, Feb. 22.

A collaborative effort between Masckwacis Health Services (MHS), RCMP and Len Wagner of Alberta Traffic and Safety hosted a seat belt safety poster competition that had submissions from children. Among the people involved were Phyllis Rattlesnake of MHS, Luci J.Johnson of the Samson Court WorkerJustice Initiative, Andrew Fulks, Ermineskin Elm Counsellor, Elder Cecil Crier and RCMP constables Lin Tuapolo and Nicholas Fetterman.

First place winner was Nolan Omeasoo-Minde who received a cash prize of $90, plus his artwork on a billboard on Highway 2A. Second place was Evanice Ermineskin with an 11x17 poster and $60 prize and third place was awarded to Brooklyn Wolfe with a poster and $50 prize.

Rattlesnake was pleased with the day saying they haven’t hosted a contest like this since the 1980s. “We are very excited to see this happen and I’m very honoured to have been a part of this pilot project.”

“To each and everyone out there, thank you to the Creator for giving us another wonderful day. Be safe, buckle up, and drive safe,” added Rattlesnake.

Hawk Radio helped MC the event.

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14 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

4-H members use gift of gab in speech competition

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS

Megan Bolton accepts the first place certificate from Kristi Padgham for the senior group in the 4-H speech competition Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye Sunday, Feb. 21 at the Drop-in Centre.

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Young 4-Hers had a chance to show off their speech making abilities during a close competition that saw six members move forward in the challenge.

The Ponoka 4-H District East Zone Communications Event brought four clubs together for the public speaking competition Sunday, Feb. 21 at the Drop-in Centre with 13 speakers vying for the top two spots in the each of the junior, intermediate and senior categories.

Those four clubs were the East Ponoka Beef Club, Renegade Riders, Silver Valley Riders and Rebel Riders and the best speakers will be moving forward to the district competition set for Sunday, March 6, explained organizer Sharon Haines. The competition will be held in Ponoka with members from the whole district competing.

Competitors presented a prepared speech for judges and they were then faced with the challenge of a giving an impromptu speech that tested their ability to think on the fly. Haines enjoyed watching the kids present their speeches after researching the topics.

“I think it’s just a great gift because, I mean you’ll always use it,” said Haines.

She grew up as a 4-H member and is grateful for the skills the speech competition provided her in life.

Another skill that comes from the competition is the ability to research. Members have to ensure their speeches are accurate and research is an important component

of the competition.

As for the judges, there was a strong voice of support on their part as well as positive criticism for the competing 4-H members who will face stiffer competition in a few weeks.

Juniors’ judge Althea Lewis praised the members but also advised them to slow down their speech as well as work to memorize what they have to say.

Intermediates’ judge Kiara Moshansky advised that practice makes perfect and to avoid using the words “uh” and “like.” “Confidence is so key, both in impromptu and in prepared.”

For the senior group, Laureen Thiessen suggested the members avoid writing their speech in full sentences and use point form to make it easier to give the speech more naturally.

Haines said she was also grateful to the judges and sponsors who helped ensure the competition could be hosted. The location of districts competition is yet to be determined.

Winners: Junior first: Macey MacPherson, West Central Rebel Riders. Speech: Black and Yellow.

Second: Nathalie Devet, Renegade Riders. Speech: My Best Friend.

Intermediate first: Rachel Devet, Renegade Riders.

Speech: Reaching for the Impossible.

Second: Mady Asante, Silver Valley Riders. Speech: Viva Mexico.

Senior first: Megan Bolron, East Ponoka Beef. Speech: Brave or Confused.

Second: Brydelle Wardley, Renegade Riders. Speech: Taking Care of Our Own.

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Brooklynn Olson of the East Ponoka Beef 4-H Club gives an impromptu speech Sunday, Feb. 21 at the Drop In Centre during a speech competition.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

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 purchase, lease or finance of a 2016 Terrain (3SA), 2016 Acadia (3SA), 2015 Sierra 1500 Double Cab and 2015 Sierra 2500HD. 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 order or trade may be required. * Offer valid to eligible retail lessees in Canada who have entered into a lease agreement with GM Financial and accept delivery between February 2 and February 29, 2016 of a new or demonstrator 2016 model year GMC model excluding GMC Canyon 2SA. General Motors of Canada will pay first two bi-weekly lease payments as defined on the lease agreement (inclusive of taxes). After the first two bi-weekly payments, lessee will be required to make all remaining scheduled payments over the remaining term of the lease agreement.

PPSA/RDPRM is not due. Consumer may be required to pay Dealer Fees. Insurance, licence, and applicable taxes not included. Additional conditions and limitations apply. GM reserves the right to modify or terminate this offer at any time without prior notice. See dealer for details. ^ Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada for vehicles delivered between February 2 and February 29, 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 Sierra 1500 Double Cab 2WD 1SA / Crew Cab 2WD 1SA and Sierra HD’s 1SA 2WD with gas engine. 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. GM Canada 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 $31,385/$40,623, including $713/$713 Loyalty Cash (tax exclusive) and $500/$1,000 lease cash for a new eligible 2016 Terrain SLE-1 AWD (3SA)/ 2016 Acadia SLE-1 AWD (3SA). Bi-weekly payment is $184/$209 for 48/48 months at 0.9%/0.49% APR, on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. Annual kilometre limit of 20,000 km, $0.16 per excess kilometre. $0 down payment and a $0 security deposit is required. Payment may vary depending on down payment or trade. Total obligation is $19,104/$21,696, plus applicable taxes. Option to purchase at lease end is $13,076/$19,513. Price and total obligation exclude license, 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. † $12,000 is a combined total credit consisting of $1,000 Loyalty Cash (tax inclusive) and a $11,000 manufacturer to dealer cash credit (tax exclusive) for a 2015 Sierra HD gas models (excluding 1SA 4x2), 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 $11,000 credit which will result in higher effective interest rates. Discounts vary by model. ‡ $10,380 is a combined total credit consisting of a $3,000 manufacturer-to-dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive) $5,195 Cash Credit (tax exclusive) available on 2015 GMC Sierra Double Cab 1SA 4WD models, $1,000 Owner Cash (tax inclusive), $750 manufacturer-to-dealer Elevation Package Discount Credit (tax exclusive) for 2015 Sierra 1SA Elevation Edition with 5.3L Engine and a $435 manufacturer-to-dealer cash credit (tax exclusive) on any 2015 GMC Sierra Elevation Double Cab AWD with a 5.3L engine, 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 $5,630 credit, which will result in higher effective interest rates. Discounts vary by model. ¥ Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any model year 1999 or newer car that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit valid towards the retail purchase or lease of one eligible 2015 Sierra or 2016 model year GMC SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between February 2 and February 29, 2016. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive) and credit value depends on model purchased: $750 credit available on eligible GMC vehicles (except Canyon 2SA, Sierra 1500 and HD); $1,000 credit available on all 2015 and 2016 GMC Sierra models. Offer is transferable to a family member living within the same household (proof of address required). As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada Company to verify eligibility. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Certain limitations or conditions apply. Void where prohibited. See your GM Canada dealer for details. GM Canada reserves the right to amend or terminate offers for any reason in whole or in part at any time without prior notice.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 PONOKA NEWS 15

DRIVE AWAY WITHOUT PAYING *

$ DOWN PAYMENT

ENDS FEBRUARY 29TH

0 0 0 0

2016 SIERRA 1500

$

2016 TERRAIN SLE-1 AWD

$

2016 ACADIA SLE-1 AWD

$

$

FIRST TWO BI-WEEKLY PAYMENTS

2016 CANYON

FOR 48 MONTHS

FOR 48 MONTHS

%

0

%

0

PURCHASE FINANCING FOR UP TO

PURCHASE FINANCING

FOR UP TO

$

SECURITY DEPOSIT

@

MONTHS ON SELECT 2015 MODELS^

DUE ON DELIVERY

ON 2016 LEASE PURCHASES

2016 ACADIA 2016 TERRAIN

BI-WEEKLY LEASE OFFER

184 0.9 %

16023MS1, 16023MN1, 16023MB0

BI-WEEKLY LEASE OFFER

209 0.49 0 @

MONTHS ON SELECT 2015 MODELS^

DOUBLE CAB SLE 4X4 4SA MODEL SHOWN

2015 SIERRA 2500HD DOUBLE CAB SLE 4X4

84 OR

84

OR

$

LEASE RATE

SLE-1 AWD MODEL SHOWN

BASED ON A LEASE PURCHASE PRICE OF $31,385†† (INCLUDES $750 LOYALTY CASH¥ AND $500 LEASE CASH)

0

%$

LEASE RATE

DOWN PAYMENT

BASED ON A LEASE PURCHASE PRICE OF $40,623†† (INCLUDES $750 LOYALTY CASH¥ AND $1,000 LEASE CASH)

DOWN PAYMENT

SLE-1 AWD MODEL SHOWN

GREAT OFFERS ON REMAINING 2015S

2015 SIERRA 1500 DOUBLE CAB SLE 4X4

UP TO

$

IN TOTAL VALUE ON OTHER MODELS‡ (INCLUDES $1,000 LOYALTY CASH¥)

10,380

$

12,000

IN TOTAL VALUE ON OTHER MODELS† (INCLUDES $1,000 LOYALTY CASH¥)

2500HD SLE 4X4 SHOWN

ALBERTAGMC.COM

16 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

Fun and fit: Andrea Ramage leads her HipFit class Monday, Feb. 22 during a regular session. Classes are Monday and Wednesdays and are co-ordinated through Ponoka Adult Learning.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

6000 - 48 Ave.

(Beside The Old Iron Horse Restaurant)

real estate central alberta DOWNTOWN BUNGALOW - Close to shopping and schools - Well cared for home - Upgraded exterior - Single garage in the back yard $169,900 Call Todd AFFORDABLE HOME W LISTING

NE

LOTS OF POTENTIAL NEW PRICE

- 2120 sq ft fully finished - Beautiful walkout, 4 bdrm, 3 bath - Kitchen w/granite & islad - Open floor plan, freshly painted - Fenced yard, backs onto field $269,000 Call Bob - 791 sq ft Bungalow - 2 B/R, 1 Bath - Numerous Upgrades - Single Car Garage

403-783-5007 DOWNTOWN LOCATION REDUCED

PRIME ACREAGE

$75,000 Call Jane

- 32 acres, mostly cleared - Good dugout; dugo 2 deep wells - Serviced & partially fenced annual rental income - $970 annu

BOB TILTGEN Associate

LAKE FRONT LOT

$230,000 Call Bob PERFECT FAMILY ACREAGE - 1393 sq. ft. bungalow -

9.51 acres - 6 bedrooms, 3 baths - 26x32 garage, 40x60 quonset & much more

GREAT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

$529,000 Call Deb FANTASTIC STARTER OR REVENUE! - Over 2100 sq ft developed

- 4 bedrooms, 3 baths - Bright & open floor plan - Newer furnace & hot water tanks - Asphalt driveway & great outdoor spaces.

- Lots with a phenomenal view of the Battle River valley - Perfect for your dream home!

- From $165,000 - $189,900

Call Jane

JANE WIERZBA Associate

DEB STEVENS Assoc. Broker

PASTURE OR REC LAND

- Thinking about summer - Gladdon Estates on Red Deer Lake - Fully treed ½ acre lot!

- Very private, shared driveway - Services @ property edge $69,900 Call Bob!

GREAT PROPERTY

- Two 1 bedroom suites & One 2 bdrm suite - Fully rented - Extensive upgrades $295,000 Call Deb

GREAT VALUE

UPDATED BUNGALOW IN SERENE LOCATION - 5 bedrooms, 2 baths

- Lots of cosmetic updates!

- New roof in 2015 - Incredibly private location near walking trails - Double garage

WELCOME HOME!

- 2004 mobile with addition - 3 beds & 1 bath - Nice open floor plan $65,000 Call Jane

LISA SMITH Associate

- 160 acres with currently 142 acres in pasture & 18 acres treed - Many good building sites - Perimeter fenced $379,000 Call Todd - 1299 sq. ft., 3 bdrms & 2 baths - Beautiful ½ acre lot!

- Large Sunroom w/ Great views!

- Detached double garage - Quiet area, close to Golf Course

$299,000 Call Bob - 1404 sq ft Mobile on its own lot - 3 B/R, 2 bath - Open living space - Double garage

$229,000 Call Deb FANTASTIC FAMILY HOME

$219,900 Call Lisa

$239,900 Call Lisa LLOYD’S SUGAR BEAR ESTATES

TODD REED

Assoc. Broker

FULLY FINISHED BI-LEVEL - 3 spacious bdrms, 2 baths G - Functional floor plan NEW LISTIN - Deck, landscaped, fenced -24x26 det’d heated garage $315,000 Call Todd

SOLD

$339,900 Call Lisa

AFFORDABLE LOT TO BUILD ON! - Oversized, zoned 2 lot - Mature trees - Ideal location

- 3 bdrm 1½ storey home - Appliances included - Fenced yard, Garage $199,000 Call Todd

$125,000 Call Deb IMMACULATE LUCAS HEIGHTS BUNGALOW - Built in 2007, 1275 sq. ft. on main - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths NEW PRICE - New carpets and all fresh paint - Fully fenced yard on quiet street - Move in ready!

Proud sponsors of RDC Arts Programs

- 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths - Lots of room for the family!

- Exceptional Lucas Heights location - Fully fenced yard, brand new roof - Must be seen to be appreciated

$345,000 Call Lisa

INCREDIBLE VALUE

- 1248 sq ft with 4 beds & 3 baths - Move in ready - Offers quick possession!

$289,900 Call Jane

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

www.remax-ponoka.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

PONOKA NEWS 17

Petulance: The English way

GWYNNE DYER Think Globally

What would you call a country that called for “a structure under which [Europe] can dwell in peace, in safety and in freedom… a kind of United States of Europe” at the end of the Second World War (Winston Churchill, 1946), but refused to join that structure when its European neighbours actually began building it (European Economic Comunity, 1957)?

What would you call that country if it changed its mind and asked to join the EEC in 1961, a goal it finally achieved in 1973 under Conservative prime minister Edward Heath – only to demand a renegotiation of its terms of membership and hold

an In/Out referendum on EEC membership under a Labour government two years later?

What would you say if that country then demanded another renegotiation of the terms of membership under Conservative prime minister Margaret Thatcher in 1984, and insisted on opting out of the planned single currency when the countries of the European Community (as it now styled itself) signed the Treaty of Maastricht in 1992?

And what would you say about that country’s behaviour if another Conservative prime minister, David Cameron, demanded ANOTHER renegotiation on the terms of membership in what is now called the European Union in 2013, and promised ANOTHER referendum once the results were known?

The word “ambivalent” would certainly spring to mind. “Capricious” also has a strong claim to be the right word. But the adjective that really sums up Britain’s behaviour in its 70-year love-hate relationship with the European project is “petulant”.

There’s going to be another referendum on whether the United Kingdom should stay in

the European Union on 23 June. Not that Prime Minister Cameron wants to leave the EU, of course.

His 2013 promise of a referendum was mainly an attempt to steal votes from the United Kingdom Independence Party, which did indeed want to leave, in the 2015 election.

But Cameron couldn’t walk away from his promise after he won the election, because half of his own party wants to leave the European Union. Jeremy Corbyn, the new leader of the Labour Party, is at best lukewarm about the the EU, viewing it essentially as a capitalist plot that has some positive side-effects. And recent opinion polls suggest that the referendum could go either way.

These are not the best of times for the EU. It has not responded well to the wave of mostly Midde Eastern refugees that began rolling across its frontiers early last year. It is suffering from chronic low growth and high unemployment (although the United Kingdom itself is doing quite well on both fronts).

It is becoming clear that the adoption of the euro common currency by 19 EU countries was a major mistake.

There is therefore a lot of disillusionment about the EU even among its core members on the European mainland, and some people fear that “Brexit” (a British exit from the Union) would start to unravel all the other deals and compromises that went into the construction of this historically unlikely structure. But why are the British always the most disaffected ones?

All the countries on the west coast of Europe lost their overseas empires in the decades after the Second World War, and Britain is not the only one to cling to delusions of grandeur in the aftermath. France, too, has a highly inflated view of its own importance. But the French understand the cost of European disunity much better than the British, because they paid a higher price.

It has to do with the fact that Britain is an island. Almost every other European country except Switzerland and Sweden has seen serious fighting

on its own soil in the past hundred years. Many of them have seen it several times, and about half of them have been partly or wholly occupied by foreign troops for long periods, whereas Britain has not been successfully invaded for almost a thousand years.

Britain is not alone in seeing the follies of the EU bureaucracy and resenting the cost of the compromises that have to be made to keep the enterprise alive. It IS alone, or almost alone, in seeing European unity purely as an optional project, to be reassessed from time to time by calculating its economic benefits and weighing them against its political and emotional costs for Britain.

EMOTIONAL costs?

Yes, and this is where the petulance comes from. There is a fantasy, still quite prevalent in England, that the country could have a much more satisfying future as a fully independent player, unshackled from the

dull and stodgy European Union and living by its wits as a swashbuckling global trader; to which one can only say: Good luck with that.

This romantic vision is not shared by the Scots, who would certainly break away if English votes took the United Kingdom out of the EU. But an independent Scotland might find it hard to claim EU membership after the divorce, as Madrid would not want to establish a precedent that Catalonian separatists could use to argue that breaking away from Spain would be painless.

Most British leaders have worked hard to manage the inflated expectations of English super-patriots and keep the country more or less on track. Cameron has dropped the ball, and the consequences for both Britain and Europe may be quite serious.

Gwynne Dyer is an independent journalist whose articles are published in 45 countries.

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

403-783-5512

LOOKING TO BE YOUR OWN BOSS?

SOLD

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

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

NORTH END

Call Wayne 403-704-0864 SANDRA LYON Broker/Owner

TYLER FESSLER Associate

RIZWAN SYED

CHANELLE LYON

Associate

Associate

DEER CREEK

LISA BONE Associate

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

403-783-8881 #3, 5012-48 Ave in the Wedin’s Prof. Bldg.

NEW LISTING

LUCAS HEIGHTS

SOLD

NORTH END

Acreage living on the edge of town! This 1250 sq. ft. home is fully finished top to bottom and has many wonderful features. 5 bdrms & 3 baths. Logix block from the basement to the rafters, extensive concrete work and beautiful landscaping. Call Sandra Lyon or Tyler Fessler.

Beautifully utifully fin’d 2 bdrm townhouse, single att’d garage, age, appliances included. Located in LLucas Heights. ghts. Reasonable condo fees. Ready to m move into. $230 $230,000 000 + GST CCallll SSandra d LLyon or Chanelle Lyon for more information

Over 1200 sq ft. home with everything on one level. 3 bedrooms and a 5 pc. bath, open concept, double attached garage.

Located in the north end of Ponoka.

$535,000

$230,000 + GST

$225,000

RIVERSIDE (PANORAMA RIDGE)

RIVERSIDE (PANORAMA RIDGE)

RIVERSIDE

D

CE

DU

RE

Call Rizwan 403-783-0898

$384,900

Lot in a newly developed fully serviced subdivision. Beautiful views of Battle River valley & town. Cul-du-sac, ready for immediate possession. MLS CA0072786.

Call Rizwan 403-783-0898

$79,900

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

Beautiful setting on just under 1 acre.

Priced at $159,000

Call Brian 403-704-7018 13.5 ACRES

Close in Call Brian

403-704-7018

Call Brian 403-704-7018

D

WAYNE McGARVEY

Brand new show home with upgraded contemporary finish. 2 bed, 2 full baths, living & den on main floor with deck. Triple att’d garage, cul de sac. 1364 Sq. Ft. MLS CA0064935. VIEW TODAY!

Asking $257,000

CE

DU

RE

duplex unit 2 - 3 bdrm units fully rented.

End unit town house backing onto the park. 2 bed with 2 ensuite baths & a half bath, walk in closet. Less than 5 min. walk away from grocery & gas. Near Centennial Center & golf course. MLS CA0058501

Call Rizwan 403-783-0898

$219,900

TO VIEW ALL LISTINGS VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.FIRSTCHOICEPONOKA.COM

BRIAN HATALA

SHAWNA LOW Broker

PROFESSIONAL REALTORS OF JOHN W. LOW AGENCIES INC.

UP-TO-DATE NEWS

WWW.PONOKANEWS.COM

18 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

A demanding love story You can’t help who you fall in love with.

Your heart doesn’t see skin color, hair color, body weight or bust size.

It doesn’t detect wallet contents or car type. You

fall in love with someone because…. well, just because. And in the new book “Be Frank with Me” by Julia Claiborne Johnson, that someone might be a little boy in

spats.

In a long line of bosses, Isaac Vargas was the one Alice Whitley liked best: he was genuinely nice and he had faith in her. So when he asked

2016 PONOKA

AGRICULTURE SUPPLEMENT MARCH 16, 2016 This supplement features the latest in: Farming • Livestock • Technology Seed & Feed • Crops • Equipment

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EIGHTH PAGE

210

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QUARTER PAGE

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SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR THE AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY! AD DEADLINE MAR. 10 , 2016 • NOON

TO BOOK YOUR SPACE CALL 403-783-3311 • FAX: 403-783-6300

Alice to go to California and work as a temporary assistant to famed but reclusive author M.M. “Mimi” Banning, she accepted the assignment, even though she really didn’t want it.

When Alice ’s mother was a teenager, she read Banning’s book, The Pitcher. Everybody did; it was a best-seller-cum-high-school-requirement. But Banning hadn’t written a word since and Vargas, as her editor, was eager for a second novel. Alice ’s help would make Banning’s life – and her work – as easy as possible.

But it wasn’t going to be easy for Alice.

Her first moments at the Banning estate set the tone: M.M. Banning was a blunt woman, not at all prone to social niceties. She called Alice homely, then tasked her with fixing things, meals, and caring for Frank.

At nine years old, Frank Banning liked sophisticated pretend games and black-and-white movies.

He wore old-fashioned clothes (the kind Alice would expect a grandfather to own), and hats to match – sometimes with gloves or a pince-nez.

Frank didn’t understand jokes. He had no friends, and the household ran by two rules: nobody touched Frank, and nobody touched Frank’s things.

It took awhile to embrace those rules, and Frank was certainly a challenge, but as Alice settled into her job, she had to admit that life was interesting with

16023LL0

him around. It was an adventure, in fact, made better by the presence of Banning’s handsome friend-turned-handyman, Xander, who certainly liked Alice very much. Frank seemed to like Alice , too, (though he sometimes said he didn’t).

Now, if only Alice ’s new boss did…

Imagine what happens if you’ve got a handful of BBs, and you throw them into the air. That’s kind of what it’s like to read “Be Frank with Me” – and that’s okay.

Mostly.

To be sure, the book scatters: author Julia Claiborne Johnson’s

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER The Bookworm

main character, the boy to whom the title refers continued on page 19

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

PONOKA NEWS 19

Spring time fun to be had at Ponoka Jubilee Library

BY JACLYN BERRY

Well, Balzac Billy didn’t see his shadow this Groundhog Day, which means early spring for us. With spring in the air, we have been doing some planning of events at the library.

Don’t forget tomorrow night, Feb. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. is our fourth annual ‘Dinner at the Library’.

It’s a potluck, so we ask every person/family to bring an item to share, the library will provide drinks, buns, plates and

cutlery. And yes, your kids are more than welcome. Looking forward to seeing everyone.

In March, we join with Ponoka Parent Link in presenting our very important program ‘Coming Together: Legacy of Residential Schools’ at the Ponoka Elementary School on March 12 at 2 p.m. Come listen to a Maskawacis elder as she relates her story of the time she spent at one of these schools, followed by a presentation about that part of our history and how we can come together to work on reconciliation. Please sign up at either the library or the Ponoka Parent Link Centre. We also have our free family movie

Love story continued from page 18

and who drives this book, caroms from subject to subject like an out-of-control pinball machine.

Johnson stops short of giving him a label of any sort but Frank is the epitome of eccentric, which wouldn’t be nearly as endearing without the character, Alice , who takes the edge out of this story. Her acceptance of his peccadilloes – and her patience – ultimately made me happy.

Though I thought this book ended too abruptly, I don’t think that’s a deal-breaking flaw. The charm of it overcomes that aspect enough that I can recommend this novel; in fact, “Be Frank with Me” is a book I think you just might love.

“Be Frank with Me” by Julia Claiborne Johnson c.2016, Wm. Morrow $25.99 / $31.99 Canada 291 pages

on March 18 at 2 p.m., where we will be showing ‘Inside Out’ for everyone. Popcorn will be provided, bring any drinks you’d like, and pillows and blankets to make the library floor comfy.

In April we are partnering up with Ponoka Adult Learning to offer a ‘Technology Petting Zoo’ on Thursday, April 7 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. If you’ve ever wanted to try a tablet or eReader, now is your chance. We will have a wide array of items on hand at the library to play with, as well as staff from the library and Adult Learning on hand to answer your questions. We will also be offering a non-restricted and restricted Canadian firearms safety course on April 10.

Please visit http://www.

Parson’s Holiday Tours

albertafirearmscourse. com for details on costs and times. And our family movie will be ‘Minions’ at 2 p.m. on April 22.

For May we are working on a special day of pampering for the ladies of Ponoka, to be held the day before Mother’s Day, May 7. Details are still to come, but think spa, manicure, pedicure, and all the nice stuff that goes with. And by popular demand, we are running a ‘Board Games & Pizza’ day for tweens and teens (9-14) on Saturday, May 28 from 1 to 3 p.m. Pizza and pop will be served, games will be played, and fun

will be had. Make sure to register at the library.

And don’t forget our free family movie on May 20 at 2 p.m., we’ll be showing ‘The Goosebumps Movie’.

Of course we also have all of our regular programs like Story Time, Lego Club, Book Club and Makerspace, check out our Facebook page or website for more details.

Coming soon: From debut author Richard Fifield, comes ‘The Flood Girls’, a snappy, sassy redemption story filled with an uproarious and unforgettable cast of characters you won’t want to leave behind.

WATCH THE SCOTTIE’S TOURNAMENT ON THE BIG SCREEN TV!

SUNDAY

Feb. 28 - 12:30pm WATCH THE BRIER Sunday, March 13 12:30pm

403.782.6341 or 403.318.5700

20TH ANNUAL KAMLOOPS COWBOY FESTIVAL MARCH 17-20

403-783-4076 • 3911 Hwy 2A

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

PLAYING

Feb. 26 - Mar. 3

SCREEN #1

Deadpool

108 min 2:00 PM Weekends 8:00 PM Daily Rated 14A Violence, nudity, sexual content

SCREEN #2

Triple 9

115 min 2:00 PM Weekends 7:00 PM Daily Rated 14A Brutal violence, coarse language

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

Babies of 2015 Winner

$750/PP/DBL Departs: Red Deer/Lacombe

For detailed information on this trip please call

Ponoka Drop-In Activities 5015 – 46 Avenue

Regular jam sessions every Saturday at 1pm Drop-ins welcome at all events.

Feb. 26 - Potluck & General Meeting 5:30 pm. Bring a dish to share, table service & enjoy good company.

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 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!

Brody John Van Der Vegte is planning for his future and excited to be depositing $100 into his new Education Savings account at the local CIBC. Shown in the photo are Ponoka News manager Judy Dick (right), Brody and his mom Alana, and Christine Nicholson (left) CIBC branch manager.

Five month old Brody won the cash in a random draw Babies of 2015 promotion courtesy of the Ponoka News.

5019A Chipman Ave. 403-783-3311 www.ponokanews.com

20 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

High-quality moves

BRENNAN TURNER FarmLead

With the bearish W.A.S.D.E. report from the U.S.D.A. last week out of the way, hedge funds extended their bearish positions in the futures market, betting grain prices will go lower.

Specific to wheat, weighing on the complex (especially on Paris boards) was the state of Egypt’s grain buying practices, albeit the GASC was able to finally purchase some wheat in their 3rd tender in less than 10 days, but with a bit of a risk premium tagged on it, given the credit and ergot tol-

erance issues that have tamed offers by sellers lately. Staying in trading, the wheat export duty that Russia implemented a few months looks like it will be removed or moved to a near-zero level. Conversely, there’s likely less demand for the available Argentine wheat supply as there seemed to be more low-protein (sub10 per cent) wheat taken off this harvest than anyone wanted. As such, Argentinian mills are currently paying about $200/MT USD for higher quality, or about double what they were paying last year for it in peso terms!

On the weather front, the US Climate Prediction Centre is tracking conditions that would suggest La Nina hitting the Northern Hemisphere in fall 2016 while El Ninoinduced weather will disappear by spring or early summer. The former, AKA “The Girl” in Spanish, typically brings

cooler, wet weather to Western Canada and drier conditions to the U.S. southwest, while wetter than normal conditions are usually seen in Australia, parts of Southeast Asia, and northern Brazil. Drew Lerner of World Weather Inc. says that the longer it takes for El Nino to dissipate, the likelier that we’ll see a drier spring in western areas of the Canadian Prairies.

Conversely, Lerner suggested that when La Nina does make landfall, it will likely result in wetter conditions in Western Canada.

India’s wheat crop isn’t looking as bad as once feared according to the USDA’s attaché there, whereas there’s a bit of a spotlight on the dry conditions in Morocco, a major grower AND importer of durum. While I have to remind you that wheat is a weed and can weather many types of storms (pun intended), this is a bit of a

positive for prices. This being said, we’ve been seeing new crop prices for durum trade on FarmLead.com around $8.50/bu CAD net back to the farmgate, dependent on location. AGT Foods is speculating that with the surge of disposable income in places like Africa and South Asia, durum is going to experience a renaissance over the next decade. However, the issues that will likely have to be overcome to make that happen are logistics and variety evolution to combat diseases, especially fusarium.

In interesting evolution in the South American market is that the Brazilian government is looking at investing in 2 major railroads for the purpose of grain exports, 1 from Mato Grosso (largest ag-producing region in Brazil) to the Amazon River and the other from southern Brazil to central Brazil. For the former, it would cost about $2.5 Billion USD (at today’s exchange rates) and would continue to accelerate the movement of grain to

northern ports, as 20 per cent of all 2015 Brazilian grain exports went out of the north, up from just 5 per cent five years earlier. The latter proposed railroad would help ensure livestock producers in the south are getting the quality feedstucks for their animals, instead of trucking it over 500km.

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 risk-free, transparent online and mobile grain marketplace (app available) that has moved almost 150,000 MT in the last 2.5 years.

His weekly column is a summary of his free, daily market note, the FarmLead Breakfast Brief. He can be reached via email (b.turner@farmlead.com) or phone (1-855-332-7653).

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On Wednesday, February 17, 2016 - 1783 head of cattle went through our rings TOTAL - 1783

SLAUGHTER CATTLE LOT 7 LCE 78C BW: 90 lbs WW: 855 lbs YW: 1415 lbs

LOT 32 VAW 6C BW: 91 lbs WW: 804 lbs YW: 1571 lbs

SIRE: S A V RESOURCE 1441

SIRE: RED MF CHESTER 20Z

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

102.00-112.50 85.00-98.50 100.00-110.00 70.00-98.00 130.00-165.00 110.00-145.00

Feeder bulls 120.00-150.00 Good Bred Cows Older Bred Cows 1,800.00-2,250.00 Good Bred Heifers: Cow/calf pairs (younger) Cow/Calf pairs (older) -

STOCKERS AND FEEDERS

LOT 9 LCE 86C BW: 78 lbs WW: 782 lbs YW: 1295 lbs

LOT 38 WILM 30C BW: 88 lbs WW: 694 lbs YW: 1403 lbs

SIRE: BROOKMORE PIONEER 22X

SIRE: RED MAF ENTOURAGE

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:

145.00-179.00 175.00-196.75 180.00-199.50 186.00-230.00 225.00-258.25 240.00-286.00 258.00-283.00 264.00-300.00

Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers

140.00-165.00 145.00-172.00 165.00-188.25 176.00-196.00 200.00-225.50 219.00-247.50 255.00-265.00 254.00-272.25

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

130.00-165.00 5.00-9.50 2.50-2.75 -

Rd Bales Rd Bales Rd Bales

100.00-130.00 -15.00 -

Ponoka, AB

Peter & Vicki Bradford P: 403.729.2592 C: 403.588.6199 WACHING ANGUS - Glenda Wacher

Mark, Kathy Matejka P: 403.783.6389 C: 403.783.9857 John Matejka

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

PONOKA NEWS 21

Flames owners’ pitch for corporate welfare isn’t doing us a favour PAIGE MACPHERSON Calgary taxpayers have now had a little time to recover from the puzzling pitch for public cash that NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman delivered when he came to town. Bettman may have left, but the ask is still on the table.

In January, Bettman told us we must “embrace” the idea of handing hundreds of millions of dollars in corporate welfare to a wealthy pro sports franchise for a downtown arena project.

He proclaimed that when the owners of the Calgary Flames group are asking taxpayers to fund their pro sports arena complex, they’re actually the ones investing in us.

Take a minute to get your head around that one.

In Opposite-Land, where Mr. Bettman clearly resides, the Flames owners asking cash-strapped Calgary taxpayers to cough up the money for a pro sports arena is actually the Flames owners giving something to Calgary.

It’s not about the owners wanting a glittering new arena with oodles of corporate box seats.

It’s about the Flames owners earnestly wanting to make an investment in Calgary’s infrastructure … with our money.

Bettman said on CBC Radio Calgary that the Flames ownership group was “willing to make a sensible investment in the infrastructure of Calgary.”

Facts are facts: The Flames owners are willing to put up $200 million for a $890 million project.

For the remaining $690 million, they’re asking taxpayers to front the cash in one way or an-

other.

They’re not exactly donating infrastructure to the City of Calgary.

The estimated $890 million is a lowball as it is. It doesn’t include the cost of cleaning up the creosote-contaminated land the owners have chosen as their desired site, pegged between $50 million and $300 million.

Ironically, it doesn’t cover the likely costs of (actual) infrastructure surrounding the site, either.

Nor does it account for the assumption that the owners wouldn’t pay a penny in property tax, since they’re suggesting the city own the building.

We’ll assume that means taxpayers will also pay for the eventual demolition when the owners grow tired of this arena, too.

Heck, we might as well write a big cheque for a new one in 2045 while we’re at it.

If the owners wanted to build their professional arena and stadium, then donate or rent out the space to local teams, they could call it an investment in Calgary’s infra-

structure.

For now, that assertion is as smooth as sandpaper.

On the radio, Bettman dodged the question of why Calgarians should be expected to hand a taxpayer subsidy to some of Calgary’s wealthiest individuals (many co-owners of the Flames group).

When asked if the Flames hockey team was profitable, he said: “Frankly the question is irrelevant,” again showing us some of that good old-fashioned OppositeLand charm.

Fortunately, that charm did nothing to mystify the mayor.

“I know that Calgarians require very wealthy people from New York to come and tell us what we need to do in our community because they understand vibrancy better than we do,” said Mayor Nenshi after declining a meeting with Bettman.

The city has already heard the proposal from the Flames owners.

Thanks to Mr. Bettman’s interjection it’s looking more like a demand than an ask. As with any

use of public funds, that shouldn’t sit well with taxpayers.

At the best of times, there are certainly higher priorities for tax dollars than a big fat subsidy to moneyed pro sports owners. Don’t forget, the owners’ proposal puts provincial and federal taxpayers

on the hook, too.

But with unemployment spiking in Calgary and an economic slump across the province, our current climate makes the proposal additionally absurd.

Perhaps the owners would accept one of Calgary’s soon-to-be-empty office towers instead?

Thankfully for taxpayers, we’re not in Bettman’s Opposite-Land. We’re in Calgary, where corporate welfare is still corporate welfare. And the answer should still be no.

Paige MacPherson is Alberta Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.

The Town of Ponoka is seeking members at large from the Town of Ponoka and Ponoka County as well as youth and senior representatives for the new Parks, Recreation & Culture Committee.

The purpose of the Committee is to: • Strengthen and increase recreational opportunities for all residents of Ponoka and Ponoka County.

• Increase the identity and profile of recreation through positive advocacy and promotion in the community • Review various studies which have been conducted and make recommendations on their review, possible implementation and required updates.

• Act as a liaison and advise Council on matters pertaining to the use of services, facilities, programs and special events.

• Identify issues, trends and gaps in service and advise how to address these in service planning.

If you are interested in joining this Committee, please submit a completed application form on or before March 4, 2016 to the Town of Ponoka.

Application forms are available at the Town Office: C, 4900 - 54 Street, Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1N8 or on the Town’s website at: www.ponoka.ca

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22 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

How do we grow the social fabric of communities?

Human connections play a profound role in solving our most pressing problems

BY MILTON FRIESEN TROY MEDIA COLUMNIST A complex, invisible but powerful web of relations profoundly shape us from individual to city levels. But how do we foster these relations?

Organizations like the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) are helping to answer the question, to the betterment of us all.

My exposure to the FCM began in 2001 as a newly elected municipal councillor in Vegreville, Alta. The physical infrastructure advocacy that FCM has built a solid reputation on was quickly apparent. Fast forward to today and the FCM’s Sustainable Communities Conference, where I was a workshop moderator.

What was remarkable was that the

capacity-plus workshop audience wasn’t there to talk about physical infrastructure or ways to generate new revenues - they were there to talk about the role that human connections in our communities play in solving some of our most pressing problems.

The session was called Turning Social Capital into Sustainability Success. It featured panelists who are leaders in attending to the relations that shape us.

Although urban planners Horst Rittel and Melvin Webber gave us a good look at the concept of “wicked problems” in their treatise in 1975, we’ve been slow to catch on. Environment and Climate Change Minister Catherine McKenna reminded us during her address that “no one on their own can address

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climate change” and a quick perusal of her mandate letter as a member of the federal cabinet reflects a deeply relational dynamic that is sobering in its challenges and imaginative in its feasibility. Without a robust social infrastructure, Canada’s goals will not be met, however well-meaning we may be.

That’s what made this workshop linking social capital and sustainability unique. It was clear from presenters and participants alike that it is very difficult to bring about change when the social fabric is thin or doesn’t exist.

When we don’t have sufficient trust or connection as individuals or organizations, we become preoccupied with who (other than us) is responsible for our various messes. If you are a municipality, it’s the province or the federal government. If you’re a business owner, it’s all of government. If you’re a citizen, it’s business and government, and so on. We need greater clarity on responsibility and with it, more effective ways of identifying if we have the resources to deliver what we’ve been asked to shoulder. Without that, frustration will increase as the dreams of the future get bigger.

Elected municipal officials and administrators identified how critical community groups of all kinds are in facilitating democratic process. In many cases, strong community groups are more trusted than local officials, given their service to people at immediate, neighbourhood levels. Every municipality has a local, street-level dynamic. What happens at those levels is vital, even for global issues, because democratic governments at all levels need a civil society that can enable their governing.

One participant asked: what happens if the social capital isn’t present or is very thinned out? A local govern-

16023MF0

ment can’t just “increase social fabric by 5.9 per cent this year” in the same way that a water main project can be undertaken to shore up physical infrastructure. We need to spend more time and energy in answering that insightful question and its flipside: how do we protect, nurture and grow the social fabric of our communities where it already exists?

The workshop presenters provided some answers: • we need spaces designed for more than one mode of transportation • we need spaces designed for human-scale interaction that includes investment in programming and social use • we need to identify barriers to social connectivity and remove them (e.g. filling out a stack of paperwork to host a simple block party) • we need faith communities that are generators of public good in our neighbourhoods.

Closing keynote speaker Charles Montgomery (Happy City) makes it clear that sociable spaces, strategies and our happiness are clearly related.

Is there a role for happiness (as a kind of proxy for well-being) in approaching our collective challenges? Could it be more effective than grim determination? It must surely be better than uncaring resignation.

While these are clearly valuable conversations to have at a conference dedicated to communities and sustainability, the deeper gains will be found in expanding these conversations where they are already well underway and carrying them to other places in government, business and our communities, where they are desperately needed.

Milton Friesen is the program director of Social Cities at Cardus, a think tank dedicated to the renewal of North American social architecture.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

PONOKA NEWS 23

Sports Close games for Kings Tough game vs. Wildcats ends in loss for Broncs at Shine tournament

Kings’ Airon Balatbat sneaks for a layup past a JV Camrose Trojans player Friday, Jan. 19 during the first game of the Shine tournament last weekend. The Kings won one and lost two games over the weekend.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS Eight teams came head to head during a weekend of basketball at the St. Augustine Senior Kings’ Shine tournament, which started Friday, Feb. 19 and ended Saturday. For the Kings, the games were close with them team being able to come out on top in one of the three games.

Their first game against the JV Camrose Trojans was a spirited competition that set the tone of the tournament for the Kings. They lost 71-64, however, the margin doesn’t give a true picture of the game, which had the Kings trailing 32-30 at the end of the first half.

A supportive home crowd

buoyed the Kings’ spirits who fought every inch of the court to stay close to the Trojans. Coach Adam Bowie said it was the fans who were their biggest strength over the course of the tournament.

“They helped us through every moment of our ups and downs. The fans were wonderful at being encouraging and supportive. They helped the boys maintain composure and energy,” explained Bowie in an email.

Adding to that support was a team that is performing better than when the season first began. Bowie said his team has come a long way since November.

The Trojans were an adept team that appeared rejuvenated after the first half.

They were able to adjust their game to the Kings’ plays creating an eight-point lead for themselves by the end of the third quarter. This added pressure on the Kings in the last quarter.

Much of the fourth quarter showed the Kings clawing their way back to closing the gap. With two minutes left, the Kings were down 65-58. Extra effort dropped that deficit and with just under 40 seconds left, the score was 66-64 in favour of the Trojans. The Kings had a chance.

The team could not capitalize on the opportunity, however, and a few foul shots later the Trojans secured the win.

Intensity on the court is what Bowie suggests is a challenge for his team. “We have had stints and streaks of this happening and we have surprised a lot of teams in the second half of the season because of it. Their job is to try and create this communication and energy for 40 minutes.”

Bowie did add that he is pleased the team had strong games over the course of the weekend. Their second game was against Ermineskin where the Kings earned a solid win.

The consolation game was against Pigeon Lake which the Kings lost by 1o points.

The Kings face Pigeon Lake again tonight (Wednesday) as a league fixture and need a win to make it to playoffs.

Bowie expects their last season game against Pigeon Lake to be a good one as the Kings have won two of the last three games with them.

For next year, Bowie said he looks forward to what this team will be able to bring to the courts.

“We will have 12 returners next year as we are only losing three players. We have a very young team and most of the year has been learning how to play at this level and move with more continuity on offence and defence,” said Bowie looking to the future.

MUSTAFA ERIC PONOKA NEWS

It was almost a heroic battle for JV Broncs on Wednesday, Feb. 17, when they had to finish a full 40-minute basketball game against Stettler Wildcats without a single substitute, inevitably losing with a score of 91-54 at the Ponoka Secondary Campus gym.

Scheduled for a week when the school was closed throughout, only five members of the JV Broncs team showed up for the game and they put up a great performance, at least in the first quarter.

The visitors started storming the Broncs’ defence in the first five minutes and taking a nine-point lead. Ponoka boys responded with a stepped-up defence and a few three-pointers by Cameron Walsh and strong penetration into the paint by Clayton Raugust to establish balance by the end of the first: 19-19.

Second quarter, however, turned out

Clayton Raugust attempts a pick-and-roll basket past a Stettler Wildcats defender during the first quarter of their game at the Ponoka Secondary Campus gym on Wednesday, Feb. 17.

Photo by Mustafa Eric

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to be the beginning of the demise of the local squad when poor ball handling and resulting turnovers allowed the visitors to score a lot of points and start to open a comfortable lead. By the end of the first half, the score was 46-30 for the Wildcats.

The second half saw the visitors pull further away with both pick-and-roll points and long-range shots while the hosts, with the added burden of apparent exhaustion, continued to turn the ball over and lose valuable possessions. When the final buzzer went off, Broncs were visibly relieved to have brought the game to a close without a bench.

“The second half was difficult, as the boys lost more of their energy, they started making more mental errors, bad passes, and failed to block out many times,” said Broncs’ coach Ryan Newman. “All in all, I was pretty impressed with the effort they put forth considering they were extremely exhausted.”

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24 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

Fierce competition: Broncs’ Lindsey Gartner takes on some strong opposition from a Medicine Hat Colts player as she attempts a layup Friday, Feb. 19 at home. The Broncs competed in a Wetaskiwin tournament, which had one game in Ponoka. The girls had tough competition during this game losing to a strong offence and defence from the Colts.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

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Improvement was certainly seen, though it may not have shown up in the final results.

The St. Augustine Queens senior girls basketball squad played host to their annual Shine tournament on the previous weekend and ended up losing all three of their games.

The girls opened up the tournament on Friday, Feb. 12 with a 42-26 defeat at the hands of Breton and followed that up early the next morning by falling 59-53 to Caroline before losing in the seventh-place game later in the day by a score of 39-33 to a club from Airdrie.

While the first two games were never

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really in doubt, the Queens held a 20-10 halftime lead in their final game only to have things go sideways over the last 20 minutes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The girls really played hard, but we took 37 fouls in that game,â&#x20AC;? said head coach Katherine Bergum-York. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They did the best they could, especially with seven of the 13 girls never having played basketball before.â&#x20AC;?

She was also impressed with the improvements the girls made during the tournament, noting that two of their losses were only by six points and that the team was able to run a full court press to a degree of success in those two games after only trying it in practice just the week before.

Ponoka on the map with Alberta Sports Hall of Fame inductees PONOKA NEWS STAFF Several athletes put Ponoka on the map after the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame announced its 2016

inductees.

Among those from Ponoka were Marilyn Chidlow for the Figure Skating Builder.

In the Pioneer Award,

Rodeo category were Brian, Tom and Bud (Vernon) Butterfield.

Stay tuned for more in the next edition of Ponoka News.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

PONOKA NEWS 25

Lacoka Bantam girls heading to provincials

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS There was little doubt the Lacoka Bantam girls would secure a spot at the Bantam B provincials set for March 17 to 20 in Hinton.

All they needed to do was beat Warburg in their second playdowns game on Thursday, Feb. 18 in Ponoka and they did just that, winning the second 5-1 in a two series game.

Lacoka had a reasonable cushion going into their second game after defeating Warburg in the first game of the series 7-1. That meant that Warburg had to beat Lacoka by seven points if they were going to land a provincials spot. Coach Tim Falkiner was proud of his players’ efforts to get to this point.

“The girls skate if they work hard. Everything falls into place,” said Falkiner. “It all depends on them. It all depends on their effort.”

He said the team put in a wholehearted effort in both of their playdowns series. The first round was against Rocky Mountain House, where Lacoka secured two solid wins.

Po n o k a p l aye r Cheyenne Avery and Lacombe’s Camryn Fodor both suggest the team’s unity has been a great part of their success thus far. Going into the playdowns series, Fodor said their goal was to be safe and healthy throughout.

“So that we could all

The Lacoka Bantam girls celebrate Thursday, Feb. 18 after defeating Warburg to land a spot at provincials set for March 17 to 20 in Hinton.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye share the experience with each other,” said Fodor.

Playing Warburg did create some uncertainty for the Lacoka girls who had lost a league game against Warburg coming into their playdowns series against them. Avery said they had to play strong hockey throughout the series otherwise they knew Warburg would take advantage.

Asked about their focus during practices, Avery replied that she hopes they continue to work on puck and stick handling.

Fodor added that this is her second chance at provincials and she intends to stay focussed as every game counts.

The team hosted provincials last year and

Fodor feels that experience will help them this time around. Her focus will be to win each game.

Coming into provincials Falkiner said the team has had little chance to play any of the other Alberta teams and he preaches: “effort, effort, effort.”

Falkiner said between breaks against Warburg, coaches didn’t have anything to point out that needed attention.

Falkiner’s bet It started last year when Falkiner made a bet with his team: if they win provincials, he will let them shave his hair off.

For a year and a half Falkiner has been growing his hair in preparation.

GREATEST GAME of Summer is back for another season!!

2016 Ponoka Minor Ball Annual General Meeting and Registration Night Wednesday, March 2, 2016 at 7pm Ponoka Kinsmen Centre (next to IGA) Get an early start with indoor Softball gym times and Baseball camps at no extra charge!

Check us out at our website ponokaminorball.com/ponokaminorball.com or on our Facebook page Ponoka Minor ball

Lacoka’s number 14, Racheal Wood, watches as the puck flies through the air Thursday, Feb. 18 during a playdowns game against Warburg. The girls won the game and are heading to provincials in Hinton March 17 to 20.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

26 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

Ponoka to host high school curling zones and provincials challenges

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE PONOKA NEWS High school curlers are working diligently in preparation for zones and provincials, which are to be hosted right here in Ponoka.

Zones are set for Friday, Feb. 26 and 27 with the girls’ and mixed teams looking for a strong showing although all three — boys’, girls’ and mixed rinks — landed a provincials berth for being host town teams.

Girls’ skip Nikki Smith said her team performed well enough in areas to land a spot at zones and now her goal is for the team to maintain a strong focus throughout the competition. The challenge will be keeping a positive focus.

“In a way it could be our mindset, because the last couple years, we’ve gotten really close,” said Smith.

She wants the rink to go into zones with the goal that they will do well. All four curlers have been together as a unit for the last two years and they have a strong rapport with each other. “As a team we can work pretty well together,” said Smith.

The mixed team was pulled together in a relatively short time, having had little more than a few weeks as a group. Considering how much time they had to train, the team was able to land a spot at zones, said skip Riley Deleeuw.

“I’m excited about being able to represent Ponoka,” said Deleeuw. “We’ve had a few challenges because our mixed team was thrown together a few weeks ago.”

“At areas, for only having everyone at one practice, I think we did pretty good,” he added.

The challenge going into zones he feels will be to keep a positive focus whether curlers miss shots or lose a game.

Despite missing out for a chance to compete at zones, the boys’ team had some positive lessons during areas,

Quinten Bunz takes aim Wednesday, Feb. 17 during a high school curling practice session.

The Ponoka Secondary Campus teams are gearing up to host zones and provincials.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

said Skip Matthew Jones. Like the mixed team, the boys have only been together for a few weeks and they are working on their team unity in preparation for provincials.

The boys’ team is comprised of five players and Jones said after the fourth end, they may switch a player out during a game.

Provincials are set for Thursday, March 3 to 5.

Fountain Tire Midget Wolves goalie Justin Hyink saves a short range shot from Stettler Storm offence in the first period of their penultimate regular season game on Friday, Feb. 19 at the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex. The game ended in a 4-4 tie although Ponoka boys started the third period with a 3-2 lead, but could not hang on to it in the face of aggressive offence from the visitors. In their last game of the regular season, the Wolves defeated Lacombe Midget A Rockets 8-5 on the road. Ponoka boys start their first playoff series with Lacombe Rockets on Tuesday, March 1.

Photo by Mustafa Eric

PONOKA NEWS 27

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

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

6 PACK 8 PACK

Announcements

What’s Happening

50-70

CLASSIFIEDS CALL TOLL FREE:

ADPACK ALL IN 1

Employment

700-920

5019A Chipman Ave. Box 4217 Ponoka, AB T4J 1R6

Services Directory

1010-1430

Items Buy/Sell

1-877-223-3311

Agriculture

1500-1990

2010-2210

FAX: 403-783-6300

Rental & Real Estate

Class Registrations

Reached a Milestone?

Card Of Thanks

FRIESTAD, Dwight Norman Dwight Friestad passed away at the Red Deer Regional Hospital on February 18, 2016 at the age of 80 years. Dwight has six sisters: Violet Hoar, Phyllis Wood, Nola Crandall, Eleanor Bakke (deceased), Verda Egbert, and Dianne Johnston (deceased); two brothers: Marvin and Myron; and a large extended family.

Dwight was also predeceased by his parents Joseph and Verle Friestad. A Private Family Service will be held at a later date with Interment at the Dakota Cemetery. To express condolences to Dwight’s family, please visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements Entrusted To PONOKA FUNERAL HOME

Share it!

THANK YOU

51 present

NEWCOMER CONVERSATION CAFE Are you new to Canada?

Join us at 6:30 pm on the second Wednesday of every month for refreshments and conversation.

Wed. March 9 Topic: Clear Language Driver's Guide

Christ's Corridor Ponoka Church, 4215 46 St Call 403-783-3285 for more information or to register

52

Learn how to access information on how you are creating ill health, and how to release this “baggage” you are carrying, through energy work.

Thank you to my family and friends for making my birthday party such a wonderful time. I was deeply touched.

Isabel Odgaard

For more information call Barbara Noel

Nora, Elsie, Eileen and Marilyn and families.

Release issues that are causing relationship problems.

Learn to help yourself and others to heal on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels in this 2 day Soul Release blocks and thought Healing workshop in Ponoka. patterns which inhibit your Includes lunch each day. progress in any area of Cost $400. your life – business, career, spiritual evolvement, goal attainment.

~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~

The family of Edna Kristensen wish to thank the following: Dr. Greyling, Ponoka General Hospital Goal Unit Staff, Ponoka United Church, and United Church Ladies for the wonderful lunch.

Also thank you to: Reverend Beatrix Schirner, Marlon Wombold and staff of the Funeral Home, Sheila Bartsch for the solo, and the staff at Sunrise Village for their care of Edna during the last few years.

All the donations to various charities were greatly appreciated.

6010

PONOKA ADULT LEARNING AND FAMILY LITERACY

Coming Events

403-783-2781

Card Of Thanks

Public Notice

5010-5240

EMAIL: classifieds@ponokanews.com

announcements Obituaries

Vehicles

3000-4310

1.887.223.3311

Meetings

Healing Workshop March 5th & 6th, 2016

59 2016 Annual General Meeting

In Memoriam

Ralph Perry Feb 27, 2006 Softly the leaves of memory fall.

Gently we gather and treasure them all.

Unseen, unheard you are always near, So missed, so loved, so very dear.

No longer in our lives to share.

But in our hearts you’re always there.

Always Loved, Never Forgotten Marlene, Myrna, Michael and Joanne and our families

Celebrate Your Marriage With a Milestone Announcement • 1.877.223.3311 Remember to share the news with your friends & family!

Tuesday, March 15, 2016 – 7:00 pm Hudson’s Green Activity Centre Open To the Public We are looking for New Board Members and Volunteers Please call for an Application!

Our mission is to provide support, referral and information to victims of crime or tragedy.

PO Box 4068 5120- 50 Ave, Ponoka, AB T4J 1R5 ponokavictimservices@shaw.ca

Ph: 403-783-6539

Reached a Milestone?

Celebrate it!

Cherish it!

Share it!

403.783.3311

28 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

Coming Events

GET MORE COVERAGE WITH YOUR AD

What’s Happening

JUST ASK FOR THE

#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

52

CLASSIFIED N.W. BUY • • • • • •

Ponoka Rimbey Eckville Sylvan Lake Lacombe Pipestone Flyer

59

Meetings

59

AG EQUIPMENT

AL-ANON WEEKLY MEETING THURSDAY AA Meetings at 8:30 p.m. in the FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF ALCOHOLICS. Catholic Church basement.

Tuesdays 8 p.m.

52 Street & 52 Ave. Ponoka.

Neighborhood Place 5201 - 49 Ave., Ponoka 403-783-4347 403-783-3442 For more info 403-783-4557

Employment #700 - #920

READ THE CLASSIFIEDS & find just what you’re looking HOW CAN YOU MAKE for. 1-877-223-3311 YOUR PHONE RING? & Make Some Quick Cash?

Place your ad HERE...

ALATEEN

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

TELL it all! Tell it well! Make your ads sell for you by giving full description of goods or services offered. Include prices and terms. Phone 1-877-223-3311 for a friendly ad taker.

Clerical

Meetings

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.

Personals

60

THE LORD’S DAY was by the resurrection of Christ declared to Christians, and from that time it began to be celebrated as the Christian’s festival. Augustine.

Professionals

The right place to find the right person for the job.

403.783.3311

810

Farm Work

720 ASSOCIATE INSURANCE ADVISOR

CLIENT CONTACT REPRESENTATIVE Discover a better place to grow your career; a place that’s caring, engaging and rewarding.

FORT MACLEOD F.P. Walshe High School 1980’s & 1990’s Reunion, June 10, 11 & 12, 2016.

For more information and to register, please visit fpwalshe80s90s.com or find us on Facebook at F.P. Walshe 1980’s-1990’s Reunion. Deadline to register is May 1.

FOR fast results: Classified Want Ads. Phone 1-877223-3311.

GET MORE COVERAGE WITH YOUR AD JUST ASK FOR THE

CLASSIFIED N.E. BUY • • • • • • •

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

Battle River Insurance Ltd / The Co-operators, in Ponoka is looking for a Client Contact Representative.

Our Client Contact Representatives are responsible for the co-ordination and implementation of the client contact program through outbound calling to schedule and confirm appointments for the Financial Advisor and Associates.

This role supports our philosophy of proactive client contact and works with the Advisory Team to achieve a positive client experience through dedicated outbound activity.

The position is part time with the potential for flexible hours. For the ideal candidate, this will lead to a full-time career.

Call toll free 1-877-223-3311 or Local 403-309-3300

Coming Events

Bay #3, 5103-48 Avenue Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1J3 Phone: 403-783-3987 Cell: 403-304-2829

Battle River Insurance Ltd / The Co-operators, in Ponoka is looking for an Associate Insurance Advisor. Our Associate Insurance Advisors are insurance professionals trained in client service, and provide the highest level of service available anywhere in the industry.

Please call or refer to our Kijiji Ad for details. Resumes can be dropped off in person.

Bay #3, 5103-48 Avenue Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1J3 Phone: 403-783-3987 Cell: 403-304-2829

TAKE A SO008801 MINUTE TO SAVE

CE

NT

RE

755

FEEDLOT in Central Alberta seeking F/T employee for feed truck operator and machinery maintenance. Send resume to fax: 403-638-3908 or e-mail to: dthengs@hotmail.com

Medical

790

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.

Professionals

810

Northcott Care Centre is seeking an EDUCATOR (0.8 FTE)

“care in the community”

Every seven minutes, a Canadian dies from heart disease or stroke.

February is Heart Month.

Flexible work hours, no shift work and no weekends. Excellent benefits (Blue Cross, RRSPs).

For more information, visit heartandstroke.ca/help

Rimbey Implements Ltd.

Al York

General Manager Cell: (403) 783-0593 Bus: (403) 843-3700

Rimbey, AB

Fax: (403) 843-3430

ANIMAL SERVICES

NOW hiring one beekeeping assistant to start immed., and 3 honey extractors to start mid June. Must be physically fit and have driver’s licence.

Great for high school and post-secondary students.

Wage range $15-$17/hr.

403-843-3595

QUALIFICATIONS: • Active registration with the CARNA • Minimum of 5 years recent broad based clinical experience in Continuing Care and/or Home Care • Minimum of 2 years teaching experience preferably with an adult focus in a health care setting • Excellent communication, computer and presentation skills and able to work collaboratively as part of a team • Proven organizational and problem solving skills with the ability to work independently • Creative, motivated and enthusiastic with well-developed critical thinking skills • Detail orientated and have a systematic approach to tasks

52

a life

Discover a better place to grow your career; a place that’s caring, engaging and rewarding.

Please call or refer to our Kijiji Ad for details. Resumes can be dropped off in person.

Starting at 25 words for $53.55

Caregivers/Aides................710 Clerical ..............................720 Computer Personnel ..........730 Dental ................................740 Estheticians........................750 Hair Stylists ........................760 Janitorial ............................770 Legal ..................................780 Medical ..............................790 Oilfield ................................800 Professionals......................810 Restaurant/Hotel ................820 Sales & Distributors ..........830 Teachers/Tutors..................840 Trades ................................850 Truckers/Drivers ................860 Business Opportunities......870 Miscellaneous ....................880 Volunteers Wanted ............890 Positions Wanted ..............895 Employment Training ........900 Career Planning ................920

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

CONCRETE SERVICES

WETASKIWIN READY MIX •

Residential • Commercial • Agricultural

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

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

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

This space could be yours for $

30

PER WEEK

Call 403-783-3311

PONOKA NEWS 29

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

PLUMBING

BUSINESS AND SERVICES DIRECTORY Misc.

Services

SHANDALL PLUMBING LTD. JAMES AVERY “Reasonable rates on all your plumbing needs” Gas Fitting - Home Renovations - Drain Cleaning -24 HOUR SERVICE5306 - 60 ST, PONOKA, AB T4J 1K7 PH: (403) 783-6372 • FAX (403) 783-6345

403-304-7770

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:783-2764 587-729-0092 Call Jim Ashbough or Cell: 588-0599 Jack Surbey 783-5283 Cell: 588-0597

OVERHEAD DOORS

Business Services #1000 - #1430

Health Care

1210

HIP OR KNEE Replacement? Restrictions in walking/dressing? $2,500 yearly tax credit. $20,000 lump sum cheque.

Disability Tax Credit.

Expert Help: 1-844-453-5372.

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.

Caregivers

1060

1290

Gerald & Tina Owners

www.doorsondemand.ca

403-783-2454

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST

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.

Caregivers

30

$

PER WEEK.

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.

BOTTLE DEPOT

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

Closed Sundays & Holidays We Now Recycle Milk Cartons for Deposit

3, 5520 Hwy 2A (Across from Husky)

403-783-6875

With over 18 years of childcare experience, this smoke free structured day home will put your mind at ease.

I look forward to having the opportunity to learn with your child.

Available openings: full and part time Monday to Friday. 6:00AM TO 5:30PM. References available.

Call Denita at 403-704-1061

1210

Health Care

1210

Two Step Foot Care

Professional Foot Care for Seniors and Diabetics Clinics at Ponoka Professional Pharmacy Call 587-991-4132 For An Appointment Aileen Charchun LPN

NEW IN TOWN?

1290

Misc.

Services

1290

Attention: Farmers We can deal with your refrigeration problems quickly, efficiently and reasonably

Berni'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

403-783-6272

LET US PUT OUT THE MAT FOR YOU! Be sure to call

Rental Misc

AN EXCELLENT CHOICE WHERE YOUR AD REACHES RURAL READERS

CALL 1-877-223-3311 CLASSIFIEDS HOT-LINE Plumbing & Heating

1330

1350

Need RV or Self Storage?

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

Also RV storage.

Secure compound.

Call Keith at

First Call Towing

783-3636

www.clinkerskennels.ca

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

1370

Roofing

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

FOR fast results: Classified Want Ads. Phone 1-877223-3311.

Plumbing & Heating

1330

Painters/ Decorators

ONLY $949*

F.J.B. PAINTING

(*some conditions apply)

Call 403-913-4217 or 403-783-7417 Welding

403-307-4691 fjbpainting@hotmail.com

1410

Welding

1410

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

Personal Services

1315 • B-PRESSURE • PIPELINE • OILFIELD • ASME Section VIII Division I VESSEL FABRICATION & PIPING • SHOP/PORTABLE • CNC PLASMA CUTTING • ALUMINUM • SHEARING & FORMING

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

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

Well Drilling

1400 Need a

Tell them Danny Hooper sent you

830

LAEBON HOMES is looking for a full time Community Sales Manager to be responsible for both our communities in Ponoka & Lacombe. For more info visit laebon.com or email kwilkie@laebon.com

Truckers/ Drivers

860

Promax Transport is looking for a F/T Class 1A shunt driver. Please send resumes to fax # 403-227-2743 or call 403-227-2712

870

FINANCIAL future selling Watkins products.

Watkins has provided stability & high income for its associates for over 145 years. Join for less than $50. 1-800-279-6104.

Email: watkinse@telusplanet.net.

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.

Quality First Always • Free Quotes

MAIN: (403) 783-7591 FAX: (403) 783-8178

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

Well Drilling

1400

Well Drilling

WATER WELL

1400 but 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 Time Payment Plan O.A.C. for water wells and water treatment 12345

Refrigeration and Appliance Service

1-800-BIG IRON (244-4766)

Iron Filters • Softeners • Reverse Osmosis • “Kontinuous ShoK” Chlorinator

View our 29 patented and patent pending inventions online at www.1800bigiron.com

P.S. We also drill for people who aren’t short of cash

NEW EXCITING mini VLT’s. Produce buckets of cash monthly. Attracts customers like money magnets. Locations provided. Ground floor opportunity. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629.

Website: www.tcvend.com.

Misc.

Help

880

RIMBEY IMPLEMENTS LTD.

REQUIRES A PART-TIME WARRANTY/ SERVICE WRITER EMAIL OR FAX RESUME TO: heinzstalder@rimbeyimplements.ca

RURAL WATER TREATMENT (Province Wide)

783-4880

Sales & Distributors

Business Opportunities 40 Gallons, Gas or Electric Installed and removal of old tank CONTROL YOUR

1310

INT • EXT RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

790

LOON RIVER First Nation, located 170 kilometres north of Slave Lake, Alberta, requires full-time, permanent Community Health Registered Nurse.

Graduation from accredited nursing school, current CARNA registration, immunization certificate, three years experience in public or community health nursing preferred. RAI assessment training considered asset. Benefits, pension, business vehicle, subsidized accommodation available. Send cover letter, resume, CARNA registration, RCMP Information Check and Child Intervention Check to: health@loonriver.ca.

Complete NEW HOT WATER TANK

SALES & SERVICE

Motorcycles & ATV’s

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.

twostepfootcare@hotmail.com

Misc.

Services

1318

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

Unplanned pregnancy may be difficult to face.

We care. For confidential help call 403-343-1611 (24 hrs.)

Mobile Foot Care Nurse

Pet Services

CLINKERS KENNELS

1060

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS?

Health Care

1290

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.

DEN ITA¼S DAY HOME #4, 3616 67 St. Ponoka, AB

Misc.

Services

Medical

t

*Big Iron drills all winter long* *check rig availability in your area

FAX: 403-843-3430

ACADEMIC Express ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Spring Start GED Preparation Morning, afternoon , evening classes in Red Deer and Central Alberta Gov’t of Alberta Funding may be available.

403-340-1930 www.academicexpress.ca

30 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

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

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 Drs. Heimdahl, ZoBell & Kallal 403-783-5575 1-800-662-7168 WWW.4YOUREYESONLY.CA

-

•

5120-51ST AVE, PONOKA

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

NEW PATIENTS ALWAYS WELCOME

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

This space could be yours for $

30

Misc.

Help

880

ASPHALT PAVING COMPANY long established in Edmonton requires Buy & Sell Salesman, Foreman and Workers for work in the #1500 - #1990 city. Must have extensive experience with all aspects Aircraft ..............................1510 of paving and equipment Antiques & Art ..................1520 operation. 780-466-7763. 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 & SEEKING A CAREER in Food Basket......................1650 the Community Newspaper Firewood ..........................1660 Lumber ............................1670 business? Post your Garden Supplies ..............1680 resume for FREE right where the publishers are Lawn Tractors ..................1690 Health, Dietary, Beauty ....1700 looking. Visit: awna.com/for-job-seekers. Household Appliances......1710 Household Furnishings ....1720 TV’s, Stereos, VCR’s ........1730 Employment Hot Tubs & Accessories ..1740 Jewellery ..........................1750 Training Kid’s Deals........................1755 Misc. For Sale ..................1760 HEALTHCARE Musical Instruments..........1770 DOCUMENTATION Music Lessons..................1780 Specialists are in huge demand. Employers want Piano & Organs ................1790 Office Supplies ................1800 CanScribe graduates.

A great work-from-home Pets & Supplies ................1810 career! Train with Pet Services ....................1820 Canada’s best-rated Cats ..................................1830 program. Enroll today; Dogs ................................1840 www.canscribe.com.

Sports Cards ....................1850 1-800-466-1535; Sporting Goods ................1860 info@canscribe.com.

Collectors’ Items ..............1870 Swap, Barter & Trade ......1880 Travel Packages ..............1900 MEDICAL Wedding Supplies ............1910 TRANSCRIPTION! Recycled Products............1920 In-demand career!

Wanted to Buy ..................1930 Employers have Items to Give Away ..........1940 work-at-home positions

INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT SCHOOL. Hands-On Tasks. Start Weekly. GPS Training!

Funding & Housing Available! Job Aid! Already a HEO? Get certification proof. Call 1-866-399-3853 or go to: iheschool.com.

900

available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program.

Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Business getting nowhere?

ADVERTISE!

PER WEEK

HEATING

Robin Esau

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

robin@KlesAir.com www.KlesMechanical.com

Advertise your business in the Business Directory!

Auctions

1530

17 QUARTERS OF FARMLAND near Brant, Alberta.

Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Unreserved Auction, March 24 in Lethbridge.

Quality land, good perimeter fences, lots of water & surface lease revenue.

Jerry Hodge: 780-706-6652; rbauction.com/realestate.

AUCTION Sale Sunday Feb. 28 - 10 a.m.

Bowden Lions Hal Bowden AB Furniture, Household, Collectibles, New merchandise & giftware, Jewelry, Coins. Just too much to mention.

Check web for full listing & pictures Pilgrim Auction Service 403-556-5531 www.pilgrimauction.com

Call 403-783-3311

“Committed to your comfort”

Auctions

Truckers/ Drivers

860 PONOKA LIONS CLUB REQUIRES

BUS DRIVERS This Is A Volunteer Position With Honorarium • Class 1 license • Clean abstract required • Mechanically inclined • Shared schedule with other drivers Apply with resume and abstract to Ponoka Lions Club – ponokalions.ca or phone 403-340-9247 for more info

Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted

1530

BIG STRAPPER AUCTIONS at The Moose Hall, 2 miles south of Ponoka on Hwy. 2A. Resuming weekly sales Wed.’s @ 6 pm.

Antique sale 1st. Sun. of Month Mar.6 @ 1 pm.

Wanted To Buy

1930

WANTED/BUYING Alberta Antler. Buying shed antler of all species/grade.

Competitive pricing & fair grading. Will buy deer, elk, moose - all grades & all amounts. Keep this ad buying all the time. Herb 780-385-0076.

COLLECTOR CAR AUCTION. 10th Annual Red Deer Collector Car Auction & Speed Show.

March 11 - 13, 2016, Westerner Park. Special Guests: Dan & Laura Dotson - Storage Wars; “Horny” Mike - Counting Cars; Chris Jacobs - Overhaulin’. Consign today.

1-888-296-0528 ext. 103; egauctions.com.

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 SHOP & OFFICE Horse Boarding ................2150 COMPLEX - Millet, Riding Supplies ................2160 Alberta. Ritchie Bros.

Auctioneers Unreserved Horse/Stock Trailers ........2170 Pasture Wanted ................2180 Auction, April 27 in Edmonton. 27,730+/- sq. Grain, Feed, Hay ..............2190 ft. industrial shop & office Seed Grain ......................2200 complex - 40 +/- title acres. Seeding & Tillage ............2210

Jerry Hodge: 780-706-6652; rbauction.com/realestate.

EquipmentMisc.

1620

A-STEEL SHIPPING CONTAINERS. 20’, 40’ & 53’. 40’ insulated reefers/freezers.

Modifications possible windows, doors, walls, as office, living work-shop, etc., 40’ flatrack/bridge.

1-866-528-7108; www.rtccontainer.com.

Garden Supplies

1680

REFORESTATION NURSERY SEEDLINGS of hardy trees, shrubs, & berries for shelterbelts or landscaping. Spruce & Pine from $0.99/tree.

Free shipping.

Replacement guarantee.

1-866-873-3846 or www.treetime.ca.

Misc. for Sale

1760

SAWMILLS from only $4,397. Make money & save money with your own bandmill. Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & dvd: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT. 1-800-566-6899 ext.

400OT

Travel Packages

1900

SAVE 30% on our Heart of the Arctic Adventure. Visit Inuit Communities in Greenland and Nunavut aboard the comfortable 198-passenger Ocean Endeavour. Call for details! 1-800-363-7566 or visit www. adventurecanada.com.

(TICO#04001400).

Wanted To Buy

1930

WANTED - SHED ANTLERS. Buying shed antlers all sizes and conditions. Paying top dollar for elk, deer, moose. Buying all the time.

Phone, text, email: 403-352-9397 or donovanh@telus.net.

Commercial - Residential Installations - Repair

3912 - 66 St, Ponoka www.wcmltd.ca

TO BOOK YOUR SALE CALL 403-782-5693 or 403-304-4791 Check website for full listings www.bigstrapperauctions.net

HEATING & EAVESTROUGHING

Livestock

2100

CHARLOIS bulls, Red Angus bulls, Red Angus X Simmental 780-582-2254 Forestburg PUREBRED red and black Angus bulls. 1 and 2 year olds. Semen tested and delivered.

Vicwin Farms 403-784-3517, 403-318-7363.

Horses

2140

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

Jerry Dodds 403-783-0303

Pasture/Land Wanted

2180

WANTED PASTURE TO RENT unsupervised or supervised. Interested in long term rent.

403-740-5197

Grain, Feed Hay

2190

HAY FOR SALE

403.783.3501 wcmltd@telus.net

This space could be yours for $

30

PER WEEK

Call 403-783-3311 VETERINARY SERVICES

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

Phone 403-391-1684 ʹͶ

Dr. Bruce Wine

TREE SERVICE Hillbilly Tree Mulching Ltd. • FENCE LINES • CUT LINES • POWER LINES • PIPELINES • BRUSH & BUSH • STUMPS MULCHING TO SUIT ALL NEEDS

Doug Casey

Can do trees up to 15” wide

1.403.318.0498 1.403.358.0452

VETERINARY SERVICES

First & second cut round bales No rain Alfalfa/timothy Can deliver

Call 403-704-0158 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.

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.

Houses/ Duplexes

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

just 3020 $30 For per week

AVAILABLE NOW 2 bdrm house with single car garage $850/mnth plus $850 D.D. N/S, N/P 5004 56 Ave, Ponoka

CALL 403-588-0597

this space could be yours!

403-783-3311

PONOKA NEWS 31

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016 Condos/ Townhouses

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

Advertise your business in the Business Directory!

PLUMBING

PONOKA PLUMBING & HEATING

For Rent #3000 - #3200 Houses/ Duplexes

3020

3 BDRM. DUPLEX IN PONOKA, large kitchen, dining and living room, 4 appls., rent + utils. Avail. immed. 403-783-3860 PONOKA NEWER 3 bdrm. townhouse, 6 appl., 3 bath, Available immediately Phone 403-704-1221 PONOKA, Duplex 3 bedroom. $950. rent/dd, no pets, 4 appls. + drapes.

403-346-3943 or 403-358-9179

Hours of Business: Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5 pm 8:00

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

JESSE ZINTER Office - 403-783-5489

WATER WELL DRILLING SERVICE

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

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

PONOKA 1ST MONTH FREE 3 bdrm., 4 appl., n/s, no pets, new paint, lino and blinds, in Riverside area, avail. imm., $995/mo., d.d. same, heat incl., 1 yr. lease min. 403 -619-5758

PONOKA large 2 bdrm. bsmt. suite $950 incld’s util’s, 403-704-1645 PONOKA, 2 bdrm. suite in Riverside. Fridge, stove, shared laundry. $675.. rent/dd. gas & water incl’d.

Absolutely N/S, no pets, Avail. imm. 780-242-0924

Farms/ Land

4070

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

Shortly ready to locate cattle. Other small and large grain and pasture quarters. $150k - $2.6m.

Call Doug Rue 306-716-2671; saskfarms@shaw.ca.

Manufactured Homes

4090

NO MATTER WHO you are, we have a home that fits your lifestyle at United Homes Canada. Over 40 years of experience in providing the best value in quality modular and manufactured housing.

Call 1-800-461-7632 or visit www.unitedhomescanada.com to discover how we can help you find your new home.

Buildings For Sale

4150

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

12345 Customizable and secure. From storage to workspace.

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

Public Notices

780 440 4037 | SEACAN.COM

6010

TENDER FOR CARETAKERS OPEN CREEK DAM CAMPGROUND From May 1, 2016 to September 30, 2016

5030

Cars

e z e e u q S

For contract details please contact: MARC DUBIELEW

MOST out of your advertising dollars

Place your ad in this newspaper and12345 province wide $ with a combined circulation of over 800,000 for only...

995 plus GST/HST

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

Public Notices

Phone: 403-704-3780 Email: marcdubielew10@hotmail.com Mail: Rimbey Fish and Game Association PO Box 634 Rimbey, AB T0C 2J0

Lowest tender will not necessarily be chosen.

DEADLINE FOR TENDERS MARCH 15, 2016

6010

NOTICE OF APPLICATION Confined Feeding Operations Ron Bennik (Bennik Dairy Ltd.) has filed application RA15055 with the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) to obtain approval to expand a confined feeding operation on NE 1442-03-W5M in Ponoka County. The application is to expand the existing dairy operation to a 140 milking cow dairy by constructing a new dry cow/heifer barn (100’ x 104’).

Filing a Statement of Concern STEEL BUILDING SALE “Really Big Sale - Extra winter discount on now!”

21X22 $5, 190. 25X24 $5,988. 27X28 $7,498.

30X32 $8,646. 35X34 $11,844. 42X54 $16,386.

One End wall included.

Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422 www.pioneersteel.ca

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

403-357-0287

Houses/ Duplexes

3260

FOR SALE 1084 SQ FT ½ DUPLEX Built in 2004 Located near IGA

403-785-6616

30

PER WEEK.

Public Notice #6000

Any person who is directly affected by these applications may submit a statement of concern to the NRCB. The statement of concern must be received by the NRCB on or before March 23, 2016.

Submissions should be made to the NRCB address provided below. A copy of the statement of concern will be sent to the applicant for review and comment. Statements submitted regarding the application are public records.

Your statement of concern should include your name, the legal land description of your residence or landholdings, mailing address, phone number, fax number (if applicable) and a detailed summary about how you would be directly affected by this application.

Failure to submit a statement of concern may affect your rights to apply for an NRCB review.

* RIVERSIDE APTS. *

$

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.

3120

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.

POLE BARNS, Shops, PONOKA 2 bdrm. well steel buildings metal clad maintained quiet adult or fabric clad. Complete building, no pets $790/mo. supply and installation. + power, heat/water incld. Call John at 403-998-7907; avail. immed. jcameron@ Brian 403-348-6594 advancebuildings.com.

• Water wells drilled • Water wells serviced

Stores/ Commercial

the

• JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER REQUIRED We now carry a complete line of Ritchie Stockwater parts

4040

Real Estate #4000 - #4190

Viewing the Application A complete copy of the application and supporting documents submitted to the NRCB under Agricultural Operation Practices Act may be viewed on line at www.nrcb.ca or during regular business hours at the Red Deer office of the NRCB. If you require further information, please contact the approval officer listed below.

Financial #4400 - #4430

Investments ......................4410 Money Wanted ................4420 Money to Loan ................4430

Money To Loan

Jeff Froese, Approval Officer #303, 4920 - 51 Street Red Deer, AB T4N 6K8 jeff.froese@nrcb.ca T 403-3405795 F 403- 340-5599

The closing date for submissions: March 23, 2016 Dated at Red Deer, AB, on February 24, 2016 www.nrcb.ca

4430

GET BACK on track!

Bad credit? Bills?

Unemployed? Need money? We lend!

If you own your own home - you qualify.

Pioneer Acceptance Corp.

Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420; www.pioneerwest.com.

CLASSIFIEDS . . . 1-877-223-3311 Working for both buyers and sellers!

32 PONOKA NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016

Hammy’s SPIRITS

OPEN

10 AM - 11 PM 7 Days A Week

KEYSTONE OR KEYSTONE LIGHT

MONKEY BAY PINOT GRIGIO OR SAUVIGNON BLANC 750 ML

$

2/ 22 OR

$

$

11

99 EACH

18

SKYY VODKA 750 ML

$

99 EACH

19

2/$1600

99

17

EACH

OR

$ 49

CANADIAN CLUB WHISKY 750 ML

$

99 EACH

19 $ 2999 1.14 L

EACH

CEILI’S IRISH CREAM LIQUOR 750 ML

$

$

49 EACH

750 ML

750 ML

355 ML 15 CAN

00

PHILLIPS BUTTER RIPPLE SCHNAPPS

TWO OCEANS CAB SAUV/MERLOT OR SAUVIGNON BLANC

99 EACH

13

BACARDI WHITE RUM 750 ML

$

99 EACH

19

THE FAMOUS GROUSE SCOTCH 750 ML

$

2499 $ 3599 EACH

1.14 L

EACH

8

EACH

BEAR FLAG RED OR WHITE 750 ML

2/$1700 OR

$ 99

8

ENIGMA CABERNET CHARDONNAY OR SAUVIGNON 750 ML

2/$1600 OR

$ 49 EACH

8

Bay #5, 4502 - 50th St. • 403-783-2333 Prices in effect Wednesday, February 24 to Tuesday, March 1, 2016 Prices do not include GST or deposit. We reserve the right to limit quantities

EACH