Ponoka News, November 20, 2013

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www.ponokanews.com Vol. 65, No. 47

403-783-3311

editorial@ponokanews.com

Ponoka & District Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year 2008

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Fun day on a snow day: Bonnie Sandin and Hunter Mydonick laugh as they sled down the hill Nov. 17 at the Stampede grounds.

Despite heavy snow causing road safety issues families were able to enjoy the snow in other ways.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

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Page 2 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Gym Club requests town assist with service installation costs

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye Although construction hasn’t yet started for the gym club’s new building, discussion on funding for the provision of basic services to the building is already underway.

The estimated cost to install services for the building last year was $125,000 and the Ponoka Gymnastics and Trampoline Club is looking for assistance from town council.

But that estimate was given before the proposed location of the building was changed to the south corner of a lot provided by Ponoka County last year. Originally the building was intended for the north portion of a four-acre property donated by the county in the southwest industrial area, a spot seen to be too close to a heavy industrial area.

“It’s a last ditch effort to see if we can be hooked up to the town’s sewer and water,” said club president Faron Leclerc at a council meeting Nov. 12, “to pay for it at least help pay for it.”

Coun. Mark Yaworski asked how much the installation is expected to cost. CAO Brad Watson replied the original estimate last year expected the cost at approximately $125,000. He said a proper study has not yet been conducted on the land to determine what the actual cost will be. “We would need that first.”

“Once we know where the building is going to be located, we can do all the measurements,” explained Watson.

Leclerc said construction has not yet started but that he hoped it would begin next month. “All

the plans and permits are in place.”

“The actual spot is not surveyed for the building,” he added. “But the contractor will be probably doing that right away.”

No decisions were made at the meeting.

“We have to deliberate at budget time,” said Mayor Rick Bonnett. $80,000 added to Hudson’s Green storm extension A 2012 project at the Hudson’s Green Nature and Activity Centre — to allow proper storm water drainage in the area — is in need of additional funds.

Administration budgeted $116,000 for the project and so far $5,000 has been spent, said Watson. Tenders sent to the Town of Ponoka last year were submitted in excess of $300,000.

Since Cat Brothers Oilfield Construction was already doing some work in the community the town successfully dropped Cat Brothers’ tender to $180,000.

When asked by Bonnett why the original tender was so high, Watson replied. “It was also a peak period for them (Cat Brothers).”

Council approved the request for another $80,000 to come from the Federal Gas Tax Grant with the extra $11,000 to be saved in case of any construction issues.

“We hope that it comes in under that,” said Betty Quinlan, director of corporate services.

The project is intended to drain water away from residential areas into a field near the Hudson Green property. Watson feels the project will be completed before the New Year.

Nick Kohlman will speak on 38 Street Council has granted Nick Kohlman’s request to speak on 38 Street at the next session.

After Gulka and Bonnett left the meeting over conflict of interest, as they both live on the street, Falkiner stood in as deputy mayor and council discussed the merits of meeting with Kohlman.

Watson said the last council already denied the town’s offer to pay residents on the street and he did not want to touch the file. He told council it will take some time to get all the details. “This isn’t something that you learn in an hour.”

“This isn’t something you do in one meeting.

It’ll take hours,” he added.

Council wants to see more information on the issue but invited Kohlman to meet with council during a public meeting Nov. 26.

Town’s finances appear stable A quarterly report to council shows the Town of Ponoka’s revenue and expenditures are tracking well, explained Quinlan. “I find this organization to be extremely stable.”

The statements show numbers until the end of September and while there is a projected surplus of $825,000, that number may drop.

“That typically shrinks as we go to the end of the year,” she said.

There has been $10.5 million in expenditures year-to-date with $14.6 million budgeted; last year the town had spent $10 million by this time of the year. Expenditures show $8.9 million with $13.4 million budgeted by the end of the year.

Of the $14 million budget Quinlan believes

Contractor breaches sewage pipe, spills into Battle River

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By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye Quick notice and corrective action by Cat Brothers Oilfield Construction may have just been what saved the company.

The Alix-based company was undertaking excavation along the Battle River for the Town of Ponoka on 49 Street last month when an employee acciden-

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the town spends approximately $4 million on wages and benefits.

There are 73 capital projects for the Town of Ponoka, 37 are new and 36 are carry forward.

The 2013 capital budget is $6.6 million and only $1.7 million has been spent. Quinlan said she expects to see invoices come in soon as projects are just finishing up. Invoices are usually sent to the town in November and December, she explained.

Board appointments After little discussion councillors have made three new board appointments. Tamara Armitage-Cline was appointed to the Ponoka Jubilee Library Board for a three-year term starting Nov. 1, 2013 to Oct. 31, 2016.

Danny Lineham has been reappointed for a one-year term to the Economic Development Board. He was initially appointed to fulfill the remainder of one term for a member who retired last year.

Justin Graham has also been appointed to the Economic Development Board for a oneyear term from November 2013 to October 2014.

Members who are appointed to the board for the first time are expected to serve a one-year term.

Thereafter, the terms are two years for the second term and three years for the third.

In-camera Council had only one in-camera discussion for a land matter. After the session, council approved additional funds of $70,000 be put into the Cemetery Expansion Project. Money will come from the development reserve.

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tally breached a sewage line with a digger. The break caused the pipe to be blocked and sewage slowly started to come out of a manhole nearby.

The manhole is approximately 150 metres from the river, said co-owner Henri Catellier. No-one noticed the break until town staff saw a drop in pumping levels of Lift Station A, explained CAO Brad Watson.

Staff checked the pasture to the south of the lift station and found water pooling on the land and some trickling into the Battle River, said Watson. “The foreman immediately came to the site.”

When the spill was noticed, Catellier said they contacted Alberta Environment right away. “We didn’t try to hide anything from anybody.”

He believes the water levels were higher than normal at the time of the breach from beaver dams that were recently removed. This may have helped the amount of sewage in the river to have less impact, he explained.

“So then we realized we could get it back online right away,” said Catellier.

Cat Brothers had to order a part that was broken from the excavation but removed the blockage to allow the product to flow through. The temporary fix bought them some time to prevent seepage into the river.

“The rest kind of collected into a pond, because it’s low there,” explained Catellier.

To ensure no more sewage did travel to the river, they also built up a berm with the help of a town staff and a loader. The spill appears to have caused little damage as Tagish Engineering inspected the site and noted little proof of sewage.

“Usually when you have sewage going into the river, there’s bubbling and it was noted there was no bubbling, so we were pleased with that,” explained Watson.

Although it is difficult to say how much sewage spilled into the river, there appears to be some filtering from the pasture land. Staff have discussed ways to ensure they can see telltale signs that there may be issues. continued on page 3

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 3

CIBC bank robber pleads guilty RCMP hunt poachers to summer robbery The man charged with robbing the CIBC bank this summer has pleaded guilty to three counts of armed robbery at a recent court session in Cold Lake.

Joseph Rodgers’ sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 29 in the same provincial court.

Ponoka man charged with assault after pushing woman Police have a charged a 61-yearold Ponoka man last week after an altercation severed a woman’s artery in her head.

A call came to police from a man reporting that a 45-year-old woman fell and hit her head on the floor of his home, which caused her to bleed.

Upon arrival, police found that the woman had a large amount of blood on the back of her neck.

She declined an ambulance but accepted transportation by a Mountie to the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre to be treated.

The doctor in attendance found an artery in her head was severed and blood was said to be pouring out of her. She required stitches to deal with the cut.

After further questioning, police were able to determine the man, who claimed there was no foul play, actually pushed the woman to the ground and injured her. Both had consumed alcohol at the time.

The man was charged with assault causing bodily harm.

Railway crossing damage The railway crossing posts on 50 Street east of 57 Avenue were reported damaged Nov. 12 at midnight. It is believed a vehicle struck the posts several times causing the posts to break. Town employees also advised police that the town shop gates received extensive damage the same night.

There are no witnesses but police are investigating.

Man pays cab fee for AWOL friend A cab driver almost lost $70 Nov. 16 at 3:30 a.m. after a man ran from his cab and did not pay for the fare. The cab driver reported the incident to police and showed them footprints he had followed to a location near the Reddi Mart on Highway 53.

It is believed the culprit entered another vehicle and drove off. Luckily for the cab driver, he had dropped off a friend of the suspect earlier and police asked the man for his friend’s identity.

The man would not provide the AWOL (Absent without leave) friend’s name but instead chose to pay the fee to the cab driver.

Theft from rural mailbox Ponoka RCMP are investigating the theft of mail from a rural mailbox on Highway 53 near Ponoka. A resident in the area believed her mail was being stolen and tested her theory the evening of Nov. 14 by putting mail in the mailbox.

Overnight the mail was stolen. Police are investigating.

Semi sideswipes vehicle A 28-year-old Edmonton driver had a close call Nov. 12 on Highway 2 near Lacombe after a semi narrowly forced her vehicle off the road.

The 34-year-old driver of the semi apparently sideswiped the woman’s vehicle forcing her into the ditch but the semi continued on. Police caught up with the driver and charged him with unsafe change of lanes.

If you have information on any crime call Ponoka RCMP at 403-783-4472 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

. . . spills into Battle River due diligence in notifying the province as well as working to solve the issue in a timely manner.

“It shouldn’t happen again because we left that little berm there,” said Catellier.

There were no fines for the breach.

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and also quickly responded and assisted the RCMP in this case.

In total, police laid 14 charges for Wildlife Act, Traffic Safety Act and Liquor Act offences, including hunting in a dangerous manner, hunting at night, discharging a firearm from a roadway, hunting while impaired and hunting on occupied land without permission. Police seized the pickup truck as well as the three rifles. The driver has had his operator’s license suspended for 30 days for driving a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol.

In this case, the offences took place only one mile from where two large bull moose were shot and left to rot and only their antlers taken by poachers last November.

That case still remains unsolved.

The RCMP will continue to aggressively target individuals involved in illegal activities and will use every possible tool and agency available.

The RCMP wishes to remind those that are involved in criminal activity that any assets used to a commit crime will be seized as offence related property.

Rimbey Mounties and Alberta Fish and Wildlife Officers have been diligently working together in partnership to put an end to the frequent poaching in the area.

Officers have proactively approached landowners and asked them to immediately call police or Report a Poacher at 1-800-6423800 to report suspicious persons or vehicles.

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continued from page 2 Some of the ideas suggested were for staff to check their surroundings and be aware of any discrepancies in pump flow. Watson said the waterworks department will hold monthly meetings to further town employees’ education.

“This whole contravention situation could have been avoided if all operators understand the importance of their job,” Watson read from the report.

The investigation from Alberta Environment appears to show Cat Brothers did their

Rimbey Mounties have arrested three individuals west of Rimbey for hunting elk at night.

A 17-year old male from Rimbey and two adults from Alhambra have been charged.

RCMP issued the following statement regarding the arrests: On Sunday, November 17, 2013, at approximately 9:30 p.m., an alert citizen contacted police to report a suspicious truck driving on Leedale Road near Highway 766 without any headlights on.

Officers quickly responded to the scene as this is known to be a highly targeted area by poachers who hunt at night.

Within minutes police stopped a Dodge truck driving on Leedale Road where elk could be seen in the field by the moonlight.

When the officer approached the vehicle, he observed the front passenger holding a spotlight with a loaded rifle in his possession.

The driver and back passenger also had loaded high-powered rifles.

All occupants of the vehicle, including the 17-year-old driver, had been drinking.

The subsequent investigation found that the driver had shot at a bull elk from the roadway with a scoped rifle near a residence at night while the passenger utilized a spotlight so the shooter could see the elk better. It is not known at this time whether the bull elk was wounded or not as the investigation into this matter continues.

Alberta Fish and Wildlife Officers were in the immediate area

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Page 4 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Your Guide To Local Houses of Worship CHURCH DIRECTORY Associated Gospel Churches of Canada

CHURCH OF THE OPEN BIBLE Pastor Jerry Preheim • Pastor Matt Sealy 3704 - 42 St. Ponoka 403-783-6500 Worship Service 11:00 a.m. • churchoftheopenbible@telus.net

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH PONOKA

Sr. Pastor Paul Spate Erin Dirsten - Fac. Youth & Family Min. 5109 - 57 Ave. Ponoka www.fbcponoka.org 403-783-5533 Bible Discovery Hour 9:30 a.m.

Worship Service 10:30 a.m.

NEW COVENANT BAPTIST REFORMED CHURCH Currently meeting at Ponoka Christian School 6300-50 St. Worship Service Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Everyone Welcome! www.baptistreformedponoka.org

PARKLAND REFORMED CHURCH South on 2A, West on Spruce Road 403-783-1888 Worship Service 10:00 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.

Rev. Mitch Ramkissoon www.parklandurc.org

PONOKA ALLIANCE CHURCH 4215 - 46 St. Pastor Norm Dibben 403-783-3958 Sunday Service 11:00 a.m.

The Christian & Missionary Alliance

PONOKA WORD OF LIFE CHURCH Pastor Rob McArthur

Playing the gospel: Hailey Brochu plays bass while her mother Melody Campbell sings gospel music. The group, Gospel ‘792’ got a crowd at the Senior Drop-In Centre in the spiritual mood Nov. 17.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

403-783-5659

Sunday @ 10:30 a.m.

Corner of Hwy 53 & Hwy 2A (former Crossroads Restaurant)

www.wordoflife.ca

Forgiveness and its link to the future

PONOKA UNITED CHURCH Minister: Beatrix Schirner

ponokaunited@shaw.ca

Sunday Service 10:00 am.

5020-52 Ave. Ponoka

Phone: 403-783-4087

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH PASTOR DAVE BEAUDOIN 6230-57 Ave. Ph. 403-783-6404 Saturdays 9:30 - 12 Noon dsjjb@xplornet.com ponokaadventist.ca

SONRISE CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH Pastor W. Delleman Worship Service 10:30 a.m. ½ mile south of Centennial Centre for Mental Health & Brain Injury

403-783-6012 • www.sonriseponoka.com

ST. AUGUSTINE CATHOLIC CHURCH Fr. Chris Gnanaprakasam, S.A.C. Mass Times: 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 9:00 a.m. Sunday

5113 - 52 Ave., Ponoka, T4J 1H6 403-783-4048

ST. MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH Ven. Michael Sung, Priest in Charge Deacons - Rev. Jessie Pei and Rev. Doreen Scott 5120 - 49 Ave. Ponoka

403-783-4329

Sunday Service: Holy Eucharist 10 a.m. www.stmarysanglicanponoka.com

TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 5501 - 54 Ave. Ponoka 403-783-4141 Sunday Service: 10:30am Sunday School: 10:30am Pastor Tim Graff • trinityponoka.ca

ZION CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Pastor Fred Knip 9 miles east on Hwy 53 (403) 782-9877 Jr. Church during service for children Sunday Service 9:30 am

We were just blessed with a visit from some nation. Today, though not perfect by any means, the nation of Kenya is bent on progressing. They friends of ours, Sammy and Winnie, from Naironoted to us, with pride, that they actually have bi, Kenya. We got to know this couple years ago two “retired” presidents. They said this noting when they were studying for their doctorates in that many African nations have dictators who North America. Every few years they come back stay in office for life. to visit us and bless us with their unique look Sammy also pointed out that the great leadon life. Sammy and Winnie are devout followers er of South Africa, took this same path when of Jesus Christ, and live out their commitment he came into power. He chose forgiveness and to Him. They go off to Muslim villages to help peace instead of a bloodbath. Today the name build schools and dig latrines and wells. They Pastor Tom Nelson Mandela resonates with us as a great hero train and support Kenyan pastors, many who do Cnossen for peace and forgiveness. And with forgiveness not have time for formal schooling. Sammy was telling us that some of these pastors are responHobbema Fellowship comes progress. It comes because when we forgive we are letting go of a weight that we were sible for eight congregations. They also run an Church never meant to carry, the weight of the past. after school program for street kids in Nairobi.

Member of the Ponoka While we were in South Korea, we saw this This year they came with a message for us, Ministerial Association too. Over and over our hosts pointed out that a message that we had already heard and seen South Korea, as a nation chose to forgive (but on our trip to South Korea this April. This year not forget) the atrocities done to them by the premarks the 5oth year that Kenya has experienced WW2 colonialists and the communists and to move forward independence from many years of colonial rule. According to our guests, Kenya is a prosperous nation, and one of the most as a nation. It is interesting to note that both Kenya and South progressive in Africa. They told us a reason for that, which Korea have high populations of Christ followers. Could it be they believe was at the root of the good things happening in that prosperity and blessing are linked to forgiveness- a forKenya: forgiveness. As a nation, they had plenty to look back giveness we first receive from God? On a personal level, God extends forgiveness and calls us on and to act on in retribution towards their colonial oppresto forgive as well. In fact our own attitude towards forgivesors. Instead, they chose to forgive and to move forward as a ness of others affects the forgiveness of God towards us. If we cannot forgive others, the Bible teaches, how can we expect God to forgive us, or bless us, for that matter?

The great benefit of forgiveness is that it frees us from the past. No longer do we live back there, fighting the old battles.

They are behind us, so we move on. Besides that, the past is something we can do nothing about anyway – it is gone. So In our October 30th issue, in the “Legion recognizes God draws us into the future through forgiveness. This is not members with awards and honors”, Isabel Odgaard was necessarily an easy thing, but it is something we need to do mentioned as receiving a pin for 40 years of service. Mrs. to move forward as an individual, a community, or a nation.

Odgaard reported that she had received a pin for 45 years I wonder what words of wisdom our African friends will of service. bring with them next time?

Clarification

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 5

Reflections of Ponoka The little river with a mighty history

By Mike Rainone for the News For those of us who have lived in and around Ponoka for many years we will fondly look upon the Battle River as a lazy and quiet stream that flows quietly through our Town and County, hardly making a ripple during the summer and fall, and freezing solid in the winter. Then again, many of us will remember that our favourite home-town river has occasionally turned into a raging flood or a mighty rolling ice-jam before going back into its usual casual tranquility. If that old river could talk it would tell an amazing story of the colorful and exciting role that it has played in the creation of Ponoka for as far back as our history books have been written.

When famed British explorer and cartographer David Thompson ventured into the Central Alberta regions while mapping his way to the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific in 1800, he likely followed the native trails and camped along the Battle River. In the early 1880’s the rugged C and E trail had become the major trade route between Edmonton and Calgary, going through Ponoka, crossing the Battle River where today’s footbridge is now located, then proceeded past where the Provincial Mental Hospital was built in 1912. Stagecoaches made the first 300 kilometre trip from Edmonton to Calgary in three days, delivering passengers and mail, while heavy oxdrawn freight wagons made the trek in about a week. The longstanding C & E trail would later become one of Alberta’s first paved asphalt highways,

which due to heavy traffic demand was then replaced by the construction of Highway 2A through Ponoka in the 1940’s, and later by the present QE from Edmonton to Calgary. Occasionally the Battle River would flood its banks, washing out the road and requiring lengthy repairs and re-routing.

Early settlers brought in valuable furs and obtained supplies from the Hudson’s Bay Company trading post on the north bank of the river, just southwest of today’s industrial park. It was at this same location in 1885 during the tense days of the Riel Rebellion that the post was hastily fortified by the North West Mounted Police, 2 establishing a 20man detachment at Fort Ostell, which fortunately never saw battle.

During the construction of the Edmonton to Calgary Railway in the late 1880’s the big work crews would camp along the Battle River, enjoying swimming and recreation in their spare time. The arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1891 reduced the arduous north/south trip to a mere 12 hours. Here in Ponoka our first classic train depot (Siding 14) was built, and included a palatial waiting room, areas to house the Station Agent and staff, and a long wooden platform to welcome and accommodate several noisy passenger and freight trains each day.

Down at the Battle River below the tracks the C.P.R. dam was built to create a reservoir from which a windmill pumped water up into a wooden tower by the tracks to feed into the massive locomotives, and to occasionally assist the local Fire Department. The dam,

R

emember when

Photos courtesy of Fort Ostell Museum

In 1912 the Battle River ravaged the Ponoka area with flood waters, and the only way to get through the high water was by horse and cart, as shown here with these two local gentlemen who were just hitching a ride. which still partially remains 112 years later, also acted as a spillway for the many thousands of logs that were floated down to the three busy saw mills which were located just downstream, and served the ongoing ‘building boom’ in the urban and rural areas. This area was always extremely popular for a refreshing summer swim, picnic, or stroll, was teeming with jackfish and suckers for the avid angler, which were also hauled away by the truckload for sale or to feed livestock. Many tales have been told of romantic boat-rides in raft, canoe, or blow up dinghy along the Battle River, maybe even stopping to try and hook a big one, or pulling into shore for a weenie or marshmallow roast.

Throughout the years the rolling land along the banks of the Battle River would always be blessed with countless birds and wild-life, including the majestic Blue Heron, geese, ducks, fox, coyotes, deer, moose, beaver, and on and on. In the 1930s and 1940’s as the Town of Ponoka and surrounding districts grew at a rapid pace friendly Indian tribes would set up their tents in the river valley and come into town to shop, trade, and perform a colorful pow-

wow and dance for local families A nice sandy area beside the river just a few moments from down-town was often utilized for massive church baptisms, a little ‘skinny dipping’ in the summer, and as a neat place to light a campfire and go skating in the winter.

Our local history books and old newspapers show and tell us of the devastating floods that occurred along the Battle River in 1912, 1948, and in the 1980’s, causing a great deal of damage, washing out the railway tracks and bridges, making travel impossible except for the trusty horse and wagon, and requiring everyone to pull together to survive the rising waters. Over the years several impending ice-jams during spring melt had to be broken up or dynamited by our local fire department, then in later years our unpredictable old Battle was rechanneled to slow down the flow from heavy rains and spring melt. Whatever fond memories and good fun we have had in and around the Battle River over the years, we have certainly learned to respect her peaceful wandering beauty and her occasional playful and frisky ways and moods to get our attention.

Photo courtesy of Fort Ostell Museum

One of Ponoka’s remaining historic treasures is the Canadian Pacific Railway dam, whose remnants still stand just below the tracks across the street from the Royal Hotel. Constructed in the late 1880’s the sturdy log dam acted as a spillway for the thousands of logs destined for three huge sawmills just down-steam, as well as a deep reservoir from which water was pumped up by a windmill into a tower to supply the many mighty steam trains that entered our first Siding 14 station!

1948 was another devastating flood year in and around the Ponoka area. In this photo the south entrance bridge going into town along highway 2A was completely flooded. At the same time the lower Riverside area became a lake, and the main C.P.R. line near the black train trestle was also washed out for almost a quarter of a mile.

Page 6 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Opinion Snow cleaning still a problem?

Having had the privilege of living in diverse cultures, I was blessed with the opportunity of observing how various languages feature some magnificent proverbs, idioms or phrases that distill oceans of wisdom into sentences of a few words that give you enough food for thought to last days.

“Putting your ducks in a row” in English language is not that kind of an idiom, but it is quite practical and straightforward in terms of expressing the intended meaning, which is to “put your priorities in order”. If you would like to stretch it, it may also be used to mean to “act with efficiency” as well.

The context for the use of this idiom in this particular article is, as you may have predicted, the snow (rather ice) removal conversation that has been omnipresent probably in every household over the last three weeks.

The heavy snow fell on Sunday, Nov. 3 and the town crews swiftly cleared most of the snow on a few of the main arteries, like the 53 Avenue, 51 Street and 50 Street.

We have received word that town administration was commended for the quick action that was taken in the downtown core.

In all frankness, the town administration does deserve credit (only) for the work

Riverside area, where the hill done on Monday Nov. 4, but must have received a priority in many town residents, probably terms of ice control action, but a majority, are not of the same was not visited until the second opinion. half of last week.

We know that both Mayor Town’s policy also has the Rick Bonnett and town counfollowing interesting wordcillors have received quite a ing in one certain provision number of phone calls from that goes “When it is deemed angry residents, who are also necessary to clear snow from taxpayers demanding as much Residential Areas, they will be attention from their local govMustafa Eric cleared on a rotational basis,” ernment as was accorded to the meaning that if you are living in business area of the town.

Editor a residential area, you are at the And an examination of the mercy of the assessment of the town’s “Snow Removal and Ice Control Policy” which is available on Director of Operations and Property Services.

What about the provision in the policy the website of the town (http://www.ponoka. ca/images/Snow%20Clearing%20and%20 which states: “Other than for emergency Ice%20Control%20Policy%20SER-009-005. situations, snow clearing operations will be pdf) shows that the policy, which probably suspended at temperatures colder than -40 needs some serious review, has not even been C”?

Records show that we have not been even properly implemented.

According to the policy in question, below -20 during daytime over the last three streets where the Ponoka Secondary Campus weeks, but we haven’t seen town equipment and the Ponoka Elementary School are locat- doing a lot of cleaning, either.

I am sure, there are probably a lot of ared are priority areas, but they remained icy, slippery and quite dangerous to drive on for guments or reasons that town officials could more than two weeks. The same goes for the mention to justify what has been an unpleas-

ant two weeks for many residents in the community.

Such arguments may seem justifiable to those who bring them up, but their validity should be debated for the fundamental reason that the town administration is paid for by the taxpayer to receive adequate and satisfactory services.

Governments of all levels, federal or provincial or municipal, are responsible to the people who both elect them and employ them with their taxes; they are elected or appointed to deliver the services to the public and the positions of responsibility are not places where officials in charge can learn by trial and error. Again, governments of all levels should ensure continuity and rely on the institutional memory to serve their constituents.

Ponoka was incorporated in 1905, which means it has had an administration for more than a century (enough time to put the ducks in order). And snow is not something that falls on Ponoka every few years.

One wonders how much more time it will take a town with so many resources to be able to put the snow clearing problems behind as we approach the year 2014. This may make a good discussion point for a town hall meeting.

Nature’s best weather prognosticators One chilly Sunday morning a couple of weeks ago, I had the great pleasure of sitting back on the sofa and watching one of nature’s most spectacular fall traditions. For more than an hour, thousands of geese could be heard and seen in the bright blue sky moving south, perfectly flying in their tight V formations, with just a few young stragglers desperately trying to keep up with the flock. No matter what the weather reports or The Farmers’ Almanac might tell us, we all know that the start of this magnificent migration means, without a doubt, that winter will soon be upon us.

Just because these annual miracles of nature really fascinate me, I always like to look into some of the facts concerning what has been a common occurrence of nature for centuries throughout North America and the world between the months of September and November. Geese and other species of birds have been migrating great distances between their breeding and winter grounds since the beginning of time, with an amazing precision that follows the same rivers, coastlines and other geographical landmarks each year, always arriving at the same locations. Geese, which have a life-span of between 10 and 24 years, have very strong family ties, often mating for life, and staying together for generations. Here are some

PONOKA

amazing facts about the annual Whatever the case, the migration of the geese. grand old goose has now left the *The longest trip is underbuilding and will not return untaken every year by the majestic til the spring, so I guess we can Snow geese, who breed in the just hunker down and make the Arctic tundra in the summer, best of whatever winter sends and winter in the farmland, our way. Of course there will lakes, and coastal areas of the always be those Alberta Snowsouth, west, and east coasts of birds who have already packed the United States. This gruelling up and headed south for a little Mike Rainone flight covers about 5000 miles at R and R and a whole lot of golf.

Hammertime speeds of up to 50 M.P.H., stopIf we were smart we would dash ping only for rest and feeding at out now and put up our outside night, and hopefully avoiding Christmas lights and decorathe wily hunter with all their fancy equipment tions, and on those brisk and very cold starry or ending up on someone’s fancy dining table Alberta winter nights, we may even catch a as the main holiday menu. glimpse of those magnificent Northern lights, *The Bar-headed goose of Asia migrates or glide around the outdoor rink with the kids. over the Himalaya Mountains, reaching al- Always enjoy our great outdoors, but please retitudes of 30,000 feet in minus 60 degree spect and protect our very delicate balance of temperatures. nature. *Our hardy Canadian Geese have thrived Great lifetime truths for kids, adults, since their appearance in the 1800’s, with their and growing old. numbers reaching 4-5 million by 2000, and *When your mom is mad at your dad, don’t let much higher today. In 1981 6000 of the giant her brush your lovely locks, and never sneeze Canada Geese, which range in weight from 18- when you are getting a haircut.

24 pounds, were introduced into 25 countries *If your sister hits you, don’t hit her back, bethroughout the world, and have also grown rap- cause they always catch the second person. idly in numbers. *You cannot trust dogs to watch your food, and

never hold a dust-buster and a cat at the same time. *You can’t hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk, don’t wear Polk-a-dot underwear under white shorts, and the very best place to be when you are sad is on Grandpa’s lap. *Just about all adult parents have found out that raising teenagers is like nailing jelly to a tree. *Families are just like fudge....mostly sweet with just a few nuts. *Wrinkles don’t hurt and laughing is always the best form of exercise because it’s like jogging from the inside. *Middle age is when we choose our cereal for the fiber and not the toy, and although growing old is mandatory, growing up will always be optional. *You are growing older when you get the same sensation from a rocking chair that you once got from a roller coaster; but then again we can still party hardy, as long as it doesn’t go much past 9:00 p.m. *Most of us will eventually agree that our four stages of life are: believing in Santa Claus, not believing in Santa Claus, being Santa Claus, and looking like Santa Claus.

Always take your time shoveling snow, bribe others with treats to get involved, and have a great week, all of you.

News Judy Dick Manager

Mustafa Eric Editor

Jeff Heyden-Kaye Reporter

Amelia Naismith Reporter

Karen Douglass Susan Whitecotton Sales Administration

5019A Chipman Ave., Box 4217, Ponoka, AB. T4J 1R6 manager@ponokanews.com editorial@ponokanews.com reporter@ponokanews.com rovingreporter@ponokanews.com sales@ponokanews.com admin@ponokanews.com Phone: 403.783.3311 Fax: 403.783.6300 Email: editorial@ponokanews.com All editorial content, advertising content and concepts are protected by copyright. Unauthorized use is forbidden.

Published every Wednesday by PNG Prairie Newspaper Group in community with: Regional Publisher, Fred Gorman

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 7

Put an end to cynical acts Dear Editor, Yesterday, Remembrance Day, I participated in our local Remembrance Day service, along with many of my neighbours. At one point, a person representing our Federal Government, laid a wreath “to honour then servicemen and women who gave their lives in the service of their country.” It’s a fine sentiment, but, in this case it seemed ironic, even cynical for such an act to occur.

All over the country yesterday, people saw our Federal Government “honouring…” members of the Armed Services. All of these were cynical acts when seen in the light of a recent decision made in the Department of Veterans Affairs. As many of you may know, personnel who remain in the Armed Services for ten years are eligible for a fully indexed pension for the remainder of their life.

Veterans Affairs has recently begun to evaluate and assess service personnel in the final year of their service to determine if they are “fit to be deployed.” Those found to be unfit to be deployed, are promptly discharged. Because they are terminated prior to the tenth anniversary of

their enlistment, they will receive no pension.

It is shocking to discover some of the reasons for personnel being judged at “unfit to be deployed.” Amputation of a limb is one cause; blindness caused by shrapnel is another; ongoing PTSD is a third reason. The list is long, It reveal that our government is denying a pension to any wounded or damaged member who cannot be fit for further service. Their discharge occurs in the months just prior to their tenth anniversary of service.

In other words, we cheat our most vulnerable Vets – the wounded, the damaged, the crippled – of the means of their future support. To save money on the backs of people who have volunteered there lives, and been damaged as a result is a cynical and heartless policy that should be terminated forthwith. Shame on our government for such behavior.

I would urge your readers to call their MP’s office to protest this policy change. We owe to our damaged young people.

James Strachan Ponoka, Alberta

Town Times

Come visit us: 5102 -48 Avenue; Ponoka, AB T4J 1P7 Phone: 403-783-4431 Fax: 403-783-6745 Email: town@ponoka.org Or Check us out Online: www.ponoka.ca

NOTICES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Employment Opportunities Qualified Lifeguards and swimming instructors needed at the Aquaplex.

For more details on these positions, contact 403-783-0118. Application forms are available at www.ponoka.ca. Submit your application to the Town Office at 5102-48 Avenue or email HR@ponoka.org.

34th Annual Fireman’s Christmas Ball Tickets are now on sale for the 34th Annual Fireman’s Ball being held on Saturday, November 30, 2013 at the Kinsmen Community Centre. To purchase tickets or for more information, contact Donna at 403.783.0112 or inquire with any firefighter.

Economic Development Board Opening The Economic Development Board with the Town of Ponoka is looking for additional membership. Come join a volunteer board of local business people who work towards helping our community thrive. The board meets the first Wednesday of every month. For more information or to express your interest, please contact Sarah Olson, Economic Development Officer with the Town of Ponoka 403-783-0116 or email Sarah.Olson@ponoka.org.

Library News Christmas Ornament Making: Help get your home ready for the Christmas season by making beautiful ornaments for your tree. Children ages 9+ are invited to come down to the library on Friday December 6th from 4:00-5:30 to put together paper ornaments, and enjoy a little Christmas cheer. Please check out our Facebook page for more details and to check out a picture of the ornaments to be made. YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT, AS SPACE AND SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED. Call the library at 403-783-3843, or join the event on Facebook.

Lego Club: Come on down to the Library this Friday November 29th for Family Lego Club! From 3:30-5:00 children of all ages are invited to build whatever they can imagine with the Library’s Lego, and have their masterpieces put on display! We ask that children under 4 be accompanied by a parent, and that no outside Lego blocks be brought into the library. This is a drop-in event, so come on by and have some fun!

Winter Movie Fix:Have you got the winter blahs? Did you know that you can rent movies at the library? As part of your $20 yearly membership you get access to a huge movie collection including new releases, children’s movies, TV series, and documentaries. Take up to ten movies for a week at a time. Come check out our collection.

Check out the Library’s Facebook page to stay up to date on all the events and happenings at the Library!

HELP US REACH 100 LIKES

Waste Transfer Station Hours Winter Hours 10:00 am - 4:00 pm There is a minimum tipping fee of $7.50 per visit. There is no charge for compostable materials or tires.

Call 403-783-8328 for more information.

EVENTS AND RECREATION Scott Seaman Outdoor Rink

2013 Campaign for

Santa’s Anonymous

‘STUFF-A-BUS’ Event

Tuesday, December 3 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Hamilton’s IGA & No Frills Please consider donating to Santa’s Anonymous this Christmas!

The Town will endeavor to begin the ice making process as soon as the weather allows. Watch for signs.

CROSS COUNTRY SKI TRAIL Cross country ski trails at the Golf course will be open November 20, 2013.

Recreation/Culture Survey All Ponoka Town & County residents are invited to participate in a Recreation & Culture Needs Assessment Survey A link to the on-line survey is available on the Town of Ponoka Website. www.ponoka. ca as well as the County of Ponoka Website at www.ponokacounty. Hard Copies of survey are available at the Town Hall and recreation facilities. The survey will only take 5-10 minutes to complete. Your input is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

For more information call 403-783-0118.

Aquaplex Update 10% off all Annual swim passes purchased in the month of November

Public Skating: Proudly Sponsored by Ponoka Lions Club Monday -Thursday: 11:30 am -1:00 pm Saturday & Sunday: 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm **Shinny Hockey on Weekdays only**

Reminder...

Sidewalk snow removal is the responsibility of the resident and/or property owner and must not be shoveled onto the street, except in areas like downtown, where there is no front yard. Sidewalks not cleared within 48 hours of snowfall are subject to fines and if cleaned by the Town, costs will be charged back to property owner. Thank you for your cooperation.

COUNCIL UPDATES & BYLAW INFO Next Town Council Meetings November 26th at 7:00 pm Check out our webiste at www.ponoka.org for a copy of the agenda.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

Every mile is two in winter. - Witts Recreations: Selected from the Finest Fancies of Modern Muses, with A Thousand Outlandish Proverbs, edited by George Herbert

Page 8 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

What happens to minor ball in rec plans?

Dear Mr.Editor I must first apologize as since I had to work, I was unable to be part of the Town Hall Meeting at the Kinsmen Community Centre. Considering I am the President of the Ponoka Minor Ball Association and this meeting was concentrated on the new rec center project, please forgive my disgust with some of the suggestions. When Mayor Bonnett was our Softball Co-ordinator, I remember discussions about a rec centre for Ponoka to help or ball leagues to keep our kids local, however, in the article in the paper things like meeting halls, library, theatre, basketball, volleyball and lacrosse as well as soccer were mentioned but where was Minor Ball?

The only time ball was mentioned was with the idea that the two best diamonds our town has for our sport was suggested to be removed. It was stated that the diamonds were under-utilized. I can assure you, I can remember a few times our association requested that we use these diamonds for games, and we were told that either the adult league was using them, or it was “Stampede Time” and we were not allowed.

Our enrollment numbers have increased in the last year. Just for quick

reference, our learn to play kids went from 9 kids in 2012 to 25 kids in 2013. Our Girls Mites teams went from 12 in 2012 to 17 in 2013, and we had to decline some late applications. Those are just a few. And we anticipate increase in numbers for 2014.

So how is taking the two best diamonds out benefiting the sport of ball? This would leave our girls team with 1 diamond other than asking the schools or Legion or Moose Hall for use of theirs, but then we are having to ask parents to drive out of town for something that is already central.

I can not completely speak on the behalf of other groups but I am aware that the St.Augustine school utilizes the complex diamonds, as well as the adult leagues. I’m sure that if we didn’t have to forfeit our time to the Stampede Parking, we would utilize them further.

I don’t feel taking things away in hopes that in 10-12 years we will have a rec centre, that isn’t even guaranteeing a spot for Minor Ball is a good idea, and I would hope that our former Board Member, Mayor Bonnett just had a slight over sight when the idea of removing these diamonds were being discussed.

Mandy Hansen, President Ponoka Minor Ball Association

Show Winter Who’s Boss

Need to rethink about ball diamonds Dear Editor, Regarding the news on “Community consultations for a new rec center off to a good start”; It would appear based on the discussion that while Ponoka would greatly benefit from a rec center, we would only expect to see this building when the children now are adults.

But the horrific conclusion that came from this meeting is that the ball diamonds by the arena are under used. Would one conclude that if the town got rid of the diamonds that the location would be used as a parking lot for the rodeo? The meeting also determined that we need more taxes to pay for the development, the development being removing the diamonds.

I am totally shocked that the first thing Mayor Bonnet and council would do is allow for the comments and discussion that the softball diamonds are under-utilized and look at removing the ball diamonds.

I know we are very blessed to have the big rodeo here but we have to find that balance where we as community members don’t lose because of it.

If you take away a place for our kids to play for a parking lot, then ask us to pay more taxes, there is something seriously backwards about what this meeting was supposed to accomplish.

Mayor Bonnet stood at our children’s school and campaigned to them that he wanted more for them and during the first meeting, he is looking at taking away

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their softball diamonds and batting cage.

I would agree ALL organized sports have taken a huge drop in numbers over the years with all the computerized gadgets that offer kids hours of entertainment, but we as a community need to protect the play areas for our kids and grandchildren.

Sure, move it, build new diamonds with a proper cage for batting and a soccer field that is not a dry slew like the one we have, but build it first before you take away what little they have.

I know this letter will not change a thing, because the rodeo is bigger than the town but I just hoped that I would never lose the place that I spend hours of my summers with my daughters playing catch.

I apologize for being hypocritical as I was one of those parents benefiting from empty beer cans at the rodeo dance to raise money for the kids’ softball provincial team and if we didn’t have the dance, we wouldn’t have that opportunity to have party goes throw cans towards us for money. So in conclusion, thanks for the beer cans, here’s the diamonds.

Also with my tax money put an interval walking light at the crosswalk to organize the foot traffic from the new parking lot or build an expensive ped-way over the road. Just make sure this build happens before next election.

Lucas Willier Ponoka

ANNOUNCEMENT Legacy Ford Ponoka management is pleased to announce that

Bob Mass has joined the sales team.

Bob welcomes friends and acquaintances to drop by for all your new and used vehicle needs.

403-783-5501 Hwy. 2A South www.legacyfordponoka.ca

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 9

Should council open its doors during budget deliberations?

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye Budget is one of the most important functions of any government, be it federal, provincial or municipal.

Political pressures and realities force governments at the provincial and federal level to keep the budget processes as transparent as possible, as they have broader responsibilities to the electorate and they are accountable to constituents in more than one ways.

At the municipal level, however, budget processes can be a little less uniform since every municipal unit has the latitude to decide on its own way of managing its monies under their bylaws and procedures.

In Ponoka, town councillors consider the budget for the town usually behind closed doors.

There are, however, other municipalities that have started to allow residents a chance to observe the deliberations. Some, such as the City of Lacombe, have been holding an open house to allow for public feedback while others keep with the same practice of deciding on the budget outside the view of the public.

For Ponoka, the reason for keeping with the old ways is less for the goal of being secretive per se, than maintaining a chance to

get through the process in a more relaxed atmosphere, according to town CAO Brad Watson.

He feels there is some safety and informality for councillors when discussing the budget. “Why would we run the risk of having them (councillors) say something that is being recorded that all of a sudden is in the paper that they embarrass themselves on,” he asked in response to a question on the topic.

The reason deliberations are in a closed session in Ponoka is to allow staff and councillors to speak freely without fear of saying the wrong thing, explained Watson.

This gives them a chance to have a level of comfort compared to a formal meeting, according to the CAO. Council is entitled to make the decision whether to open up deliberations to the public, he added.

Are there benefits to open budget deliberations?

Norma MacQuarrie, City of Lacombe CAO, said they made budget deliberations open to the public last year and response was favourable. “We’ve had very good feedback on that. It was well attended.”

“I felt it’s really important that that conversation occur publicly so people understand that this is what’s required to maintain service levels,” she explained.

The city sets an open house after budget meetings to engage residents to give people a chance to talk to councillors about their thoughts. Having open budget deliberations gives residents a chance to consider what was discussed and then prepare for the open house, MacQuarrie believes.

“I think people appreciate the opportunity to talk to their councillors and administration one-on-one or in a small group setting,” she said.

Other budget related events, such as those when external agencies that the city deals with present their budgets to council are also open to the public. MacQuarrie feels this provides information to city residents about different businesses administration deals with.

There may have been some trepidation over opening deliberations to the public but MacQuarrie said there was much support from councillors for the decision. “Everyone saw the benefit of keeping the public informed and hearing information.”

“Truly, if there is a perceived covertness where you’re trying to be covert and secretive, then people become suspect,” she added.

The job of municipalities is to provide a public service and MacQuarrie suggested the city does not feel the need to discuss

items in-camera; these sessions are reserved for legal, land or labour issues, but even in those matters, decisions can only be taken in open sessions. She said she is pleased with their current budget process and feels there may be some additions next year.

Committee of the whole meetings are also open to the public, as in the Town of Rimbey but Ponoka’s committee of the whole meetings are behind closed doors. No decisions are made at these meetings and MacQuarrie said if they need to go to an incamera session they will do so. She does not think finances fall under the umbrella of incamera discussion.

Mayor Rick Bonnett did not realize other municipalities had open deliberations but feels the idea should be investigated. “It’s definitely a concept that can be looked at in the future.”

He does feel council as a whole should consider the merits of the idea. Bonnett would like to speak with Lacombe’s mayor Steve Christie to learn their process and see how the idea came about.

For now, he expects budget deliberations to remain the same as there is not enough time to research the idea. Budget discussions are scheduled for Nov. 28 and 29.

Liquor hours sales extended for Almost Midnight Madness

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

ger asked if there has been an improvement in citizen safety since the bylaw was enacted. “Have we had any evaluation of the change?”

CAO Brad Watson has asked Staff Sgt. Cameron Chisholm if there is any statistics or concrete information but there is none as of yet. He did say Chisholm was monitoring the situation.

Coun. Tim Falkiner feels if the bylaw is actually a safety concern, then the bylaw should also affect serving alcohol. “I guess I’m baffled that this bylaw actually came about.”

“We have the AGLC that governs liquor sales in this province. They’re a very competent organization,” he added.

Gathering the necessary statistics takes time offered Coun. Loanna Gulka. She suggested the town should take a longer time to determine whether the bylaw is actually keeping the community safe. She asked Jones how much the loss of business was from a new liquor store in town.

Councillors have unanimously decided to waive the business hours bylaw for Almost Midnight Madness set for Nov. 29.

The decision came during a regular meeting Nov. 12 after the Liquor Store manager Chad Jones requested council rescind the business hours bylaw. He said the business hours bylaw, which restricts the sale of liquor to 10 p.m. from liquor stores and offsales, has been detrimental to his business.

Jones was reluctant to provide a number to councillors of how much money was lost but he did say summer is his busiest time of year. “We’ve had a negative impact.”

He does not feel council should restrict liquor sales hours when stores rules fall under the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC) requirements.

“I would also like to point out that I don’t think the town’s citizens were really concerned with this matter,” said Jones.

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“For first seven months it had no effect.

In fact my numbers increased,” Jones replied.

Mayor Rick Bonnett said one liquor store owner spoke with him and asked about Almost Midnight Madness. The bylaw does not give allowance for special events. He wondered if there was a way to allow liquor stores the opportunity to stay open for an extra hour during the special day.

Falkiner wondered why council was considering putting in a waiver if it is actually a safety issue, as the last council said when it passed. He said he was not in favour of the bylaw but making consolations for dates such as the Ponoka Stampede and now a waiver for Almost Midnight Madness can become confusing. “So what’s next, Valentine’s Day?” “We need to bring this back here.

We need to have the information and we need to deal with the bylaw,” he added.

Falkiner suggested council look

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at the information pertaining to community safety and the bylaw before the Dec. 10 meeting and then they make a decision then.

He feels this will give administration and residents time to gather information.

Jim Hamilton, owner of Hammy’s Spirits, said he told Bonnett and Watson he would be leaving his doors open only for the special day. He said he would not pay the fine and be prepared to face jail time as well because the bylaw was going against the spirit of Almost Midnight Madness.

“I just thought it was detrimental to the town,” said Hamilton in an interview.

He feels the bylaw does not benefit Ponoka businesses and has been against the decision since it was first proposed.

Ponoka Farmers’ Market Christmas Markets At the Royal Canadian Legion, Hwy 2A

Community Blue Box Program For $12.00 per month

Wed, Nov. 27 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Thurs, Nov. 28 3:00 – 7:00 pm Wed, Dec. 4 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Thurs, Dec. 5 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm

We will pick up your paper, clean tins, glass, No. 1-5 plastic and cardboard.

We also pick up cardboard from local businesses.

Wed, Dec. 11 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Thurs, Dec. 12 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm

For more information on these programs please call

For tables or more information call Donna at 403-783-6776

403-783-5810 Weekdays

Page 10 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Snow removal policy challenging for town staff

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye The first heavy snowfall of the season brought challenges to many municipalities and Ponoka was no different from the rest.

A large heavy, wet snowfall Nov. 2nd and 3rd caught town employees by surprise as it did not take long to freeze. Crews were out Nov. 3 with a plow truck and grader to clear the downtown area and then the airport, said CAO Brad Watson during a council meeting Nov. 12.

Since then town councillors have received complaints over very little snow clearing. Mayor Rick Bonnett brought his concerns up during the meeting.

“Comments have been coming to us pretty heavily,” he said.

He asked Dave McPhee, the new director of operations and property services for clarification on the town’s plans. Keeping up with the service levels in the snow removal policy is a challenge, said McPhee.

“It’s left us anywhere from two to six inch, in some areas 12 inch hard…The grader is struggling to cut that.”

He estimated 20 to 25 days of recovery time to clear up the ice. McPhee said he was considering hiring a contractor to help clear the roads. The issue became contentious enough that McPhee had to deal with an irate resident at the town shop.

“He tore a verbal abusive strip off me,” he explained.

The man became so angry that McPhee had to ask him to leave the shop. “It’s a learning curve with me and this service level.”

Coun. Loanna Gulka asked if the Town of Ponoka is short staffed with regard to this issue.

“We have more snow and ice fighting equipment than we do manpower,” answered McPhee.

He suggested if the snowfall was a regular Alberta storm rather than what came, staff may have been

able to deal with the issue a little faster. A service level review may occur after he has completed one cycle to see whether keeping up with the snow removal policy is realistic.

“What if we’d got 14 inches on top of this stuff? Then we would’ve definitely hired outside resources to help,” added McPhee.

Coun. Carla Prediger asked Watson whether the town has a list of contractors in the event of heavy snowfall. “This isn’t the

first time Ponoka, Alberta has had a dump.”

“To me it seems like that would meet our criteria based on that bylaw,” she added.

There is a list of truckers who will come and help, replied Watson but those same truckers are in demand whenever it snows.

“One of the problems when we run into a snow like this, they are contracted out. And so they’re saying, ‘You bet but we’re going to our bread and butter before we come and help others.’”

He and McPhee have to also assess different issues with staffing levels such as vacation time, sick time and training days.

Bonnett asked if there is some way to let councillors know where staff are working so residents can be informed as well.

McPhee said they are looking at how to get information out. “It’s a matter of where you want to post it. Do we put it on the website?

Do we Twitter it?”

The town grader was busy last week clearing ice and snow off of town roads. Here an operator directs the machine up Chicken Hill Nov. 14.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

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PONOKA NEWS Page 11

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Page 12 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Residents will see an increase in their power bills

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye Not many communities can still say they own their power, but Ponoka has held on to the asset.

“We’re the wire owner. We run the electricity to people consuming it,” said Betty Quinlan, Director of Corporate Services, at a council meeting Nov. 12.

The new council met with Kevin Phillips, a consultant who has expertise in the power industry and has been working with the Town of Ponoka for some time, and learned about how Ponoka sits with the rest of the province.

“Ponoka was embedded within the Fortis distribution system,” explained Phillips.

Although the industry is deregulated, there are

many requirements companies must adhere to. In recent years, the Town of Ponoka has undertaken a series of upgrades to ensure the electricity infrastructure is up to date. And while it may be a large source of income for the town, maintaining equipment is just as important.

“That’s going to keep you in good standing for years to come,” offered Phillips.

Power rates are on an upward climb, however, he explained. The industry has had to ensure its infrastructure is upgraded to meet the demands of Alberta’s transmission policy in Bill 50.

One of the requirements was that there should be no bottlenecks in the system, said Phillips. To do

Join Santa for hot chocolate and carols as we

Light Up Ponoka’s Christmas Tree!

Tree Lighting Ceremony at Town Hall Friday, November 29 at 5:30 p.m.

Fireworks Blast Off at 6:00 p.m.

that, $30 billion in construction and maintenance has been planned for in the next 10 years. This requirement is intended to meet enhanced residential and industrial needs such as those of large oilfield operations.

“There was major capacity in the transmission system to handle the power,” said Phillips.

“It’s the economic development driver in the province,” he added.

While Ponoka has had a slight spike in costs last year, Phillips suggests the town must stay in line with the industry to ensure money is not lost.

“Our non-controlled costs will continue to escalate,” said Quinlan.

“Two-thirds of the costs are the transmission,” she added.

Running Ponoka’s power infrastructure as a business was something previous council wanted to see, explained Coun. Loanna Gulka. “This is a business. We need to invest in it so we get things back from it.”

Phillips feels the investment is worth it and suggests there are some communities that are neglecting this

duty. “You need to keep fully recovering your distribution costs…It’s an ongoing business.”

Because of recent upgrades and increases, the town sits slightly higher than Fortis in terms of power distribution rates. Each year, under guidance from Phillips and industry regulations, council must approve new rates for the year. Service fees will see a slight increase this year to cover salaries and benefits.

A residential home with a monthly bill of $45.44 last year will see a new bill at $51.27, an increase of 12.83 per cent. Medium commercial property that typically received a bill of $2,276.46 will now pay $2,556.33, a rise of 12.29 per cent.

Large commercial industries with a bill of $3,721.24 will now see a cost of $4,108.83, a rise of 10.42 per cent.

Medium commercial is slightly higher than Fortis rates and large commercial is 110 per cent of the cost of Fortis. Small commercial is 116 per cent of the Fortis cost and residential is 98 per cent.

MAJOR SPONSORS: Town of Ponoka • Ponoka & District Chamber of Commerce Grand Slam Sponsors: Star Storm Fireworks, Ponoka News Blast Sponsors: Sunny 94, Julie’s Travel, Don Laing Trailers, Tantec Electronics, Ponoka First Call Towing, Ponoka Reddi Mart, Ponoka Cabinet Makers, Diversified Financial, Ponoka Fertilizer, Rip ‘n Ronnies Fitness, Ponoka Funeral Home

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PONOKA NEWS Page 13

Maybe we do need a little Christmas Christmas is starting to pop post exercise mode which means I think of the lyrics to the song that say ‘we up everywhere. sitting down with a coffee and need a little Christmas.’

Coffee break over, I head to work. I pull As I start the bumpy drive the newspaper. Well deserved. back onto the bumpy road that singles out my to work which means I am drivRelaxing. ing on icy, rutted roads, which Sadly, it seems so much of subdivision from the next subdivision which means I am still in my subdivithe news is not relaxing, but dis- no doubt has the same bumpy road, but differsion, I see signs of the season turbing. I sip my coffee and turn ent street sign. I drive past the houses with the poking up everywhere. the pages, reading of violence, Christmas lights and the trees all lit up against Houses with Christmas sexual slurs, break ins and mur- the winter darkness.

“Good for you,” I say silently giving them lights up. Christmas trees lightders. ing up windows.

The written word. Mightier the thumbs up! Of course, they don’t know Treena Mielke “I really must take that Halthan the sword. Some wise per- that I’m doing that. No one else is up, or so On The Other Side it seems. loween pumpkin which is now son said that.

But, I have to say that in the midst of all mush out of that flower cart I look out my thing on the front step,” I think to myself. “Re- window at the crusted snow, lit ally, that is so inappropriate.” by a few streetlights and a string I drive on further and I see a plywood Santa of misplaced Christmas lights. and his reindeer bravely preparing to prance up Christmas with all its hope, BECAUSE on somebody’s rooftop. unrealistic dreams, great expecWow, it seems like only yesterday it was tations and slightly camouflaged BUSINESSES Remembrance Day. Probably, because it was. greed is here again. And, once KNOW THE Okay, it was not yesterday, it was last week, again, people are embracing it already. like a long lost friend.

VALUE OF As has been my practice, or at least as has I even heard someone say been my intention and sometimes my practice to me the other day they loved OPTIONS for the last few months or so, I rise, stumble Christmas. It was their favorite forth, and end up at the gym early in the morn- time of year. This person was an ing. This all happens before I become too awake adult, too. to seriously consider the definition of ‘crazy.’

I turn the pages of the newsIt’s good, at least it’s good when I am in the paper. It’s more of the same.

the hatred and senseless violence and crime and atrocities that spill out onto the pages of the news, I have decided one thing.

It is true; we do need a little Christmas.

Or perhaps, what we really need is the faith to believe in what Christmas stands for so we know that somewhere in this tarnished and unhappy world, goodness will, in the end, win out.

And the Toronto Maple Leafs will win the Stanley Cup, making fans such as my brothers, who are watching the games from heavenly seats, very happy!

But that, perhaps, is too much to hope for.

Season’s Greetings The annual Season’s Greetings supplement offers you an opportunity to thank your customers for their patronage and send Christmas greetings.

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Page 14 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Almost Midnight Madness boasts largest shopping day

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye The biggest shopping day in Ponoka is around the corner and businesses are readying themselves for big sales.

Set for Nov. 29, the evening kicks off with a Christmas tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. at Town Hall and even Santa Claus is expected to make an appearance. And at 6 p.m., the Ponoka sky will be lit with fireworks to get residents in the mood for shopping.

Almost Midnight Madness has been growing every year, said Jim Hamilton, president of the Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce. He has spoken with many retail owners who say they have seen strong community support for the shopping event. “It’s good for the town of Ponoka,” he said.

The evening is piggy-backing on Black Friday in the United States, which has seen steady growth in Canada. Originally the chamber planned the event for the week before but some retail owners were considering their big sale to coincide with Black Friday. The decision to change was an easy one, said Hamilton.

“We definitely want to piggy-back on the na-

tional companies,” he added.

Keeping with the spirit of giving, Ponoka News is working with companies to provide shoppers with gift certificates and raise money and food for the Ponoka Food Bank at the same time. Manager Judy Dick said 975 pounds of food was collected last year for the charity organization. Shoppers provide food or money in exchange for gift certificates, which can be found on a Christmas tree in the Ponoka News’ office. People usually lineup outside “We have some great prizes,” said Dick.

“Some of them (businesses) are really good at giving more than they have to,” she added.

Shopping starts at 6 p.m. and the streets of Ponoka are usually busy for some hours. Stores will stay open until 11 p.m.

“It’s a year in planning for a lot of the businesses,” explained Dick.

Stock and merchandise is usually ordered in advance to prepare for the many shoppers who come to buy gifts. Dick said for many retail businesses this is one of their busiest nights of the year. Expect to see carollers from St. Augustine Catholic School warming up people’s hearts at the tree lighting.

As Christmas spirit slowly makes its way through the community, preparations for season’s festivities have started in earnest with town crews embellishing the lamp posts with Christmas decorations.

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Page 16 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 17

Construction moving along at DWMS building

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye While its former students pack into Ponoka Elementary School, construction workers are dayby-day changing the old Diamond Willow Middle School (DWMS) building.

The interior of the building is almost completely gutted and while there is some semblance of hallways, its look is supposed to be completely different.

Construction is anticipated to be completed in the early summer, said Joe Henderson, secretary treasurer with the Wolf Creek School Division.

Demolition started early in the fall and much of the east side of the building has been emptied. “The old mechanical system on the west side has been totally dismantled.”

While this occurs, the gym at Ponoka Secondary Campus (PSC) is undergoing a complete renovation.

So PSC students are using the DWMS gym for now.

The timelines are tight for elementary school stu- Andrei Quinto, Ayra Acosta, Sakira Margate, Vicky Lockridge and Angel Fajardo are all preparing for the bake sale on dents; the goal is to have them move in next school Nov. 28 at the St. Augustine Catholic School to be able to send some help to the victims of the typhoon in their native year. country, the Philippines.

Contributed photo “Next year when people start school, our projects should be complete,” said Henderson.

There will be similar design concepts at the new elementary school as in PSC. “Once the elementary school is relocated then we have to relocate the Outreach School from its current Submitted letter because I’m too shy to ask you in organized a Bake Sale to raise much location,” he added.

St. Augustine Catholic School has person. I was just wondering if we can needed funds for the Philippines. The Students at the Outreach School will call the have a donation for the Philippines. I Sale will take place on November 28 durbrick building their new home once upgrades are welcomed many Filipino families into think you heard that they have had Tydone to it. “We might have a temporary accommoda- our school community over the years. As phoon Haiyan/Jolanda. If we can, let’s ing the lunch recess. Donations will be tion of the Outreach at the elementary building, but such, many of our students have personal donate food, medicine, maybe first aid, sent to Development & Peace. We would that will be a temporary stage.” connections to the devastation their coun- clothes, but I don’t know if they need like to invite the community to help us Construction crews are dealing with challenges try is facing right now. One of our Grade money. All I want is to help the victims of in our efforts by inviting you to attend that come along, but crews and planners have regular 5 students submitted the following letter the bake sale or make a donation through Typhoon Haiyan/Jolanda. site meetings to deal with them. And there can be Development & Peace or other organizato school principal Mr. Baron as a way to From a Grade 5 student challenges with modernizing an older building. tions supporting the disaster relief.

St. Augustine grade 4-6 students have help her friends and family in the Philip“There’s four layers of flooring in there,” Henpines. derson said.

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Page 18 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Early Warning System Shelters are not much good “We’ve been telling the rest of the world we don’t want what’s against that sort of thing unless Gwynne Dyer happening to us to happen to (as in Bangladesh) you start buildGuest Columnist everyone else,” said Lucille L. ing them on on elevated platforms.

Sering, the vice chair of the PhilipEven then, you may decide that pines’ Climate Commission,, as the you want to move elsewhere if your city is going to be country struggled to cope with the aftermath of Typhoon inundated and destroyed every ten years or so. The east Haiyan. “This is your early warning system...we will all coast of Luzon is very sparsely populated for precisely eventually be victims of this phenomenon.” this reason, and this may be the future that awaits the A full week after the typhoon roared through the eastern Visayas as well if storms of this scale become eastern Visayas, the number of people killed is still un- more frequent. known. Ten thousand dead is the number being used in The very worst typhoon that hit the Philippines since the media, but the area around Tacloban city alone may detailed records began in the 19th century was Thelma, have lost that many. Many other parts of Samar and Leyte which killed about 5,100 people in 1991. But of the next islands are still inaccessible to both media and aid work- worst nine, all of which killed over a thousand people, ers. six have happened in the past decade: 2004, 2006, 2008, But the question that people are asking elsewhere 2011, 2012, and 2013. is: will we really all become victims of this and similar So Haiyan may really be an early warning of what phenomena? You can never attribute a particular weather is to come for any coastal area that is within a thousand event to climate change with complete confidence, but km. (500 miles) of the usual tracks of tropical storms. At consider this.

Among the large countries of the world, the Philip- some point, people decide that it’s just not worth living in pines is the one most exposed to tropical cyclones. Their such constant danger. They become, for want of a better tracks most often take them across northern Luzon or word, “climate refugees”.

In some regions, it will be frequent mega-storms that the eastern Visayas. They do a lot of damage, but by and drive them out. In other regions it will be drought and large Filipinos have learned to ride them out. However, desertification, or heat so great that it kills the crops that you cannot just ride out something like Haiyan.

What did most of the killing in Samar and Leyte last people depend on. There are going to be a lot of refugees, week was not the high winds (although they stripped off and not many places that are willing to let them in.

Lucille Sering is right: this is an early warning of almost every roof in the affected areas). It was the “storm surge” that submerged coastal regions to the height of how the warming will unfold, and what the impacts on a two-story building. The pressure at the centre of the human societies will be. But we are getting lots of early typhoon was so low that a “hump” of water 6 metres (20 warnings, and so far we are managing to ignore them all.

Gwynne Dyer is an independent journalist whose arft.) high was pushed up beneath the eye and travelled with it. ticles are published in 45 countries.

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The federal equalization program allows recipient provinces to provide aboveaverage benefits at the expense of taxpayers elsewhere

By Mark Milke Senior Fellow The Fraser Institute Troy media columnist In a recent drive from Saint John to St. Andrews, New Brunswick, I marvelled at the four-lane highway that connected the two points on the map - and how empty it was on a Friday evening on a long weekend.

I compared it with much of the TransCanada highway in British Columbia, four-laned in portions where it should be six, and often only twolaned where it should be four, as well as to the regularly packed four-lane highway between Edmonton and Calgary.

The contrast was symbolic of how the federal equalization program allows recipient provinces to provide above-average benefits at the expense of taxpayers elsewhere, even to “overequalize” in some cases.

For those not familiar with equalization, here’s the simple explanation: Tax dollars flow into the federal treasury from taxpayers in all provinces; equalization then flows from Ottawa to provincial governments.

A province is deemed to need equalization if its ability to raise revenues, its “fiscal capacity,” is below the average of all 10 provinces.

In a recent look at equalization, I added together its numbers over the past eight years, threw some quasiequalization add-ons such as offshore accords and transfer payment protection into the mix, averaged out the dollars, and then figured out which province ended up as a “have” or “have-not.”

Here are the results: In current dollars, Prince Edward Island received the most equalization dollars, at $2,229 per person on verage in each of the last eight years.

Among the other five provinces that normally receive equalization payments - New Brunswick, Nova Scotia , Manitoba, Quebec, and Newfoundland & Labrador (which received equalization payments until 2008 and received offshore accord payments until 2012) - Quebec received the least per capita at $933 annually, averaged over those eight years.

On the other side of the equalization divide, Ontario still counts as a “have” province for my purposes despite its recent status as an equalization recipient because it received an annual average of just $63 per person in equalization money since 2005/06. So it is much closer to a “have” province most years. Meanwhile, Saskatchewan’s equalization take was $41 per person, while the figure was $31 for British Columbia (Alberta received nil).

Problematically, by design, the equalization program is currently de-

signed to produce bigger governments and/or charge less for some service.

For example, provincial government program spending in Atlantic Canada ranges between 21 per cent (Newfoundland) and 29 per cent (PEI) of the economy. That compares to a range of just 13 per cent (Alberta) to 17 per cent (Ontario) of GDP in the have provinces.

Equalization largesse thus allows for have-nots to have “advantages” over the have provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario. (By “advantage,” I merely mean a preponderance of some item.

While more doctors is an actual advantage, it is not helpful to have a big, expensive provincial bureaucracy that squeezes out private entrepreneurs.)

Overall, out of 19 categories which account for two-thirds of provincial program spending, it turns out the six have-not provinces have an “advantage” in 13 categories. For example, if you live in a have-not province, you are likely to have cheaper average university tuition: $2,774 in Quebec and $3,729 in Manitoba. That compares to tuition in British Columbia at $5,015, Alberta at $5,883, Saskatchewan at $6,017 and Ontario at $7,180.

Have-not provinces also have many more government sector employees at the provincial level. For example, Manitoba and Quebec have 30 per cent and 15 per cent more such employees per 1,000 people when compared with Alberta. Have-nots also have more nurses and doctors, hospital beds, and CT scanners per capita when compared to “have” provinces.

The advantages in have-not provinces are helped along by federal tax collections in richer provinces where residents see less of such taxpayerfinanced cornucopia, for good or ill.

Thus, B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario possess the advantage in just three categories (three measurements ended up neutral).

Equalization is meant to be about roughly equal services, not about over-equalization. One option for reform is to determine equalization eligibility and payments based not only on revenue capacity, the current approach, but also on the various costs of providing services in one province when compared with another.

After all, it is much cheaper to live in Halifax, Montreal and Winnipeg than in Toronto Calgary and Vancouver. That would not solve all of the problems in equalization - and there are many - but it would be a useful start.

Mark Milke is a Senior Fellow with the Fraser Institute and author of Super-Sized Fiscal Federalism: How Equalization Over-serves have-Not provinces.

Dodge Journey SE 2.4 L 4-speed automatic – Hwy: 7.7 L/100 km (37 MPG) and City: 10.8 L/100 km (26 MPG). ^Based on 2014 Ward’s Middle Cross Utility segmentation. ❖Real Deals. Real Time. Use your mobile device to build and price any model. TMThe SiriusXM logo is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc. ®Jeep is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC.

applicable Consumer Cash Discount: $32,290. ¤Based on 2014 EnerGuide Fuel Consumption Guide ratings published by Natural Resources Canada. Transport Canada test methods used. Your actual fuel consumption will vary based on powertrain, driving habits and other factors. 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan – Hwy: 7.9 L/100 km (36 MPG) and City: 12.2 L/100 km (23 MPG). 2014

and Ultimate Bonus Cash Discounts) financed at 4.29% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 208 bi-weekly payments of $119/$116 with a cost of borrowing of $3,826/$3,717 and a total obligation of $24,824/$24,115. §2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Crew shown. Price including applicable Consumer Cash Discount: $31,790. 2014 Dodge Journey R/T shown. Price including

2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Ultimate Family Package/Ultimate Journey Package model to qualified customers on approved credit through Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Examples: 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package/2014 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package with a Purchase Price of $20,998/$20,398 (including applicable Consumer Cash

Ultimate Journey Package (RTKH5329G/JCDP4928K). Discount consists of: (i) $2,500 in Bonus Cash that will be deducted from the negotiated price after taxes; and (ii) $625 in no-cost options that will be deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. Some conditions apply. See your dealer for complete details. ‡4.29% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new

Discount consists of: (i) $2,500 in Bonus Cash that will be deducted from the negotiated price after taxes; and (ii) $775 in no-cost options that will be deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. Some conditions apply. See your dealer for complete details. Ultimate Journey Package Discounts available at participating dealers on the purchase of a new 2014 Dodge Journey SXT with

Value Package (22F) only and includes $2,000 Consumer Cash Discount. *Consumer Cash Discounts are offered on select new 2014 vehicles and are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. »Ultimate Family Package Discounts available at participating dealers on the purchase of a new 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT with Ultimate Family Package (RTKH5329G/JCDP4928K).

insurance, registration, any dealer administration fees, other dealer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell for less. •$20,998 Purchase Price applies to 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Value Package (29E) only and includes $8,100 Consumer Cash Discount. $20,398 Purchase Price applies to the new 2014 Dodge Journey Canada

Wise customers read the fine print: •, *, », ‡, § The Dodge Number One Sales Event offers are limited time offers which apply to retail deliveries of selected new and unused models purchased from participating dealers on or after November 1, 2013. Offers subject to change and may be extended without notice. All pricing includes freight ($1,595–$1,695) and excludes licence,

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013 PONOKA NEWS Page 19

GET YOUR BUSINESS OUT THERE CALL

403-783-3311

THE

NUMBER ONE

$

2014 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN CANADA VALUE PACKAGE CANADA’S BEST-SELLING MINIVAN FOR 30 YEARS

20,998 •

$

119

BI-WEEKLY‡

@

AS GOOD AS

37 MPG

HIGHWAY 7.7 L/100 KM HWY ¤

BI-WEEKLY

On Nov. 13 Ray Ward, representing the local car club Ponoka Piston Poppers, bestowed Nell Liddle of the Covered Wagon Association with a $500 donation.

Photo by Amelia Naismith

SALES EVENT

THE 2014s ARE HERE

2014 DODGE JOURNEY CANADA VALUE PACKAGE CANADA’S #1 SELLING CROSSOVER^

$

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

$

116

‡

FINANCE FOR

@

2014 Dodge Journey R/T shown: Price: $32,290.§

4.29 %

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

FEATURES FOR THE 2014 DODGE JOURNEY

• 2.4 L (16V I-4) with 4-speed automatic • Second-row 60/40 split-folding seat • Air conditioning with dual-zone temperature control • Uconnect™ 4.3 Multimedia Centre • Keyless Enter ‘n’ Go™

Just go to www.dodgeoffers.ca to easily find special offers, incentives and current inventory from your nearest dealer.❖

REAL DEALS. REAL TIME.

Western farm leaders meet

AS GOOD AS

36 MPG

HIGHWAY 7.9 L/100 KM HWY ¤

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $8,100 CONSUMER CASH* AND FREIGHT.

FINANCE FOR

4.29 %

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN 13113UC1 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Crew Plus shown: Price: $31,790.§

FEATURES FOR THE 2014 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN

• 3.6 L Pentastar™ VVT V6 with 6-speed automatic • Third-row Stow ‘n’ Go® 60/40 split-folding seats with tailgate seating • Uconnect™ 130 Multimedia Centre • Air conditioning with dual-zone temperature control • Seven air bags • Keyless entry

20,398 •

Farm leaders from the four western provinces met last week to discuss issues facing western Canadian farmers, according to a press statement by Alberta Federation of Agriculture.

Lynn Jacobson of the Alberta Federation of Agriculture, Doug Chorney of Keystone Agricultural Producers (Manitoba), Norm Hall of the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan, and Rhonda Driediger of the British Columbia Agriculture Council met in Abbotsford to explore mutual concerns and opportunities for greatSubway Fresh er collaboration.

The group conTry our firmed that on the Prairies and in northern NEW BC, poor rail service is hindering getting this year’s bumper crop to market. continued on page 20

SRIRACHA STEAK

Kelly Jones, MBA

Realtor

Work: 403-343-3344 Cell: 403-392-0382

kellyrjones22@gmail.com

Buying or Selling?

Call me for all of your real estate needs in Central Alberta!

Commercial & Residential!

Page 20 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Farm leaders meet continued from page 19 Chorney will be taking the message that rail service needs to be drastically improved for agricultural commodity shippers to the federal Crop Logistics Working Group, of which he is a member.

“This is unacceptable,” Chorney said. “Farmers have been asking for better rail service basically since farming began on the Prairies, and

Emile and Joyce Cartier were married 65 years ago on November 16 and they celebrated their anniversary at the Golden Leisure Lodge last Friday.

now this situation underlines the fact that nothing has really changed.”

The leaders also discussed the challenges of engaging with farmers across their provinces as government resources decline, as well as the need to harmonize regulations with the US to ensure that Western Canadian farmers have the same competitive advantages as their southern colleagues.

Contributed photo

FIRST CHOICE REALTY

403-783-8881

(PONOKA) LTD.

Bay 6, 5103 - 48 Ave. Box 4325 Ponoka, AB T4J 1R7

SANDRA LYON Broker/ Owner

FEATURE PROPERTY real estate central alberta

6000 • 48 Ave, Ponoka

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

Jane Wierzba 403-358-8770

Bob Tiltgen 403-704-0644 Whether Buying or Selling… I’m here to help!

Buying or Selling, call Jane!

real estate central alberta

CHARMING 1 ½ STOREY

1ST TIME BUYERS NEW Split level home located in a quiet cul de sac on the north end of town. Well laid out, plenty of room for the growing family, oversized yard.

PRICE

- Immediate posession - 3 bdrms - Open floor plan - Furnace & shingles replaced in 2012 - New hot water tank in 2013 - Fenced & landscaped - Move in ready!!

2 bdrm unit condo in four plex unit. Modern decor throughout, great use of space, east facing windows giving you lots of natural light. Like new condition, upgraded appliances.

$259,000.00

$189,900

• Very Large Corner lot • Beautiful landscaped yard • Oak Kitchen; Newer windows • Large Entrance /Full Basement • Very well maintained • Detached single & double garage

164,900

$

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

219,900 ~ Call Bob Must be Seen to Be Appreciated

6000 - 48 Ave.

(Beside The Old Iron Horse Restaurant)

real estate central alberta HOLT COUNTRY ESTATES - Only 3 Acreages remaining - Build your dream home - Parcels are 5.47 - 6.41 acres - Country living close to town

403-783-5007 23.5 ACRES ON PAVEMENT

- Architecturally control - Common area park

$134,000 Call Todd

- 1356 sq ft 3 bdrm home, 3 baths - Hot tub rm, 2 wood burning stoves - Upgraded cabinets, furnace & windows - Barn, Quonset, cattle shed, garage - 100’x200’ roping arena

BOB TILTGEN

TODD REED

Associate

Assoc. Broker

COMMERCIAL LOT

JANE WIERZBA

DEB STEVENS

LISA SMITH

Associate

Assoc. Broker

Associate

- 46 acres - Zoned M2 - 105’ wide X 190’ deep - Located north of Inland Concrete

19+ ACRES W/ HOME

$79,900 - Call Todd

$489,000 ~ Call Todd

- 1408 sq ft bi-level - 5 bdrms, 3 baths - Mature yard, fenced & cross fenced - 22’ x 48’ Barn, Outdoor riding arena - Located on pavement only 5 mins

$469,950 Call Todd

CE

HIGH END FINISHINGS

- Very Neat & Clean!!

- Beautiful 2352 sq ft on 4 levels - 4 bdrms & 2 baths - Hardwood, Tile & Granite - Attached heated garage - Beautiful yard w Patio & deck

STARTER OR REVENUE

$359,000 ~ Call Bob - 3+2 bdrm bungalow - 1234 sqq ft in quiet cul de sac replaced in 2012 - Shingles re - Multi-tiered deck w/ hot tub

STUNNING

SOLD

$324,900 Call Jane

GREAT GATHERING HOME

- 2 storeys, finished on all levels 2022 sq ft - 4 bdrms & 4 baths - Large open kitchen w/ island - Great location!

- Waterfront on Red Deer Lake - A-Frame Cabin, 961 sq ft - 12x24 screened in porch - Private ING Setting PEND - Must be seen to be appreciated!

$144,900 Call Lisa

ADULT LIVING CONDO

WELCOME HOME

- 4 level split w/ extensive upgrades throughout & renos thro - 1840 sq ft w w/4 bdrms & 3 baths - Fully finished nishe on all levels - Has a deck, is fully fenced & landscaped

WHAT A VIEW!

HILLSIDE BUNGALOW

- 65.09 acres west of Bluffton - 800+ sq. ft. bungalow - Move in ready - New windows, doors, shingles, etc.

- Gorgeous mature yard

$330,000 Call Lisa

- 1700 sq ft w/3 bdrms and 2 baths - Executive home backing onto 12th hole at Wolf Creek Golf Course - All the upgrades - Covered deck

- 2536 sq.ft. walk out 4 b/r, 3 baths - Bright Kitchen & Eating Area - Kitchen offers direct access to backyard - Double Attached Garage - Over-sized Single Garage in backyard

$365,000 Call Deb

Call Deb for details

GREAT ACREAGE/HOBBY FARM

- Close to school & downtown - Property is very neat & clean - Immediate Possession - Very Affordable

$134,900 Call Bob ONE OF A KIND

$675,000 Call Jane

$315,000 – Call Jane - Picturesque River Valley View - 1784 sq ft Executive Hillside Bungalow - Numerous Upscale Outbuildings - Commercial Potential - 81 Scenic acres - Fantastic Location w/ easy access to hwy 2

CLOSE TO SCHOOLS! - 1.5 Storey, 3 Bdrms & 1 Bath

$139,000 Call Bob

SOLD THIS ACREAGE HAS EVERYTHING

- Open Kitchen w Island - 792 sq ft, 1 Bdrm & Bath - 5 Applian Appliances included - Large dec deck w storage - Heated pa parking

SOLD

$110,000 Call Bob

$315,000 Call Deb

LAKEFRONT PARADISE

- Great for a small family or Investor!

- Cozy Bungalow w 2 bdrms & 1 bath - Includes 5 appliances - Trendy colors, new flooring - Single garage & RV parking

AFFORDABLE ACREAGE LIVING!

· Move in ready on 3.46 acres · 1230+ sq ft, 4 beds, 1 bath · Updates galo galore, inside and out · Warm, cozy and inviting - Must be see seen to be appreciated!

SOLD

$259,900 Call Lisa

- 1721 sqft w/ 3 bdrms & 3 baths - Gorgeous open floor plan - Fully fenced, tiered flowerbeds & pond - Huge lot 50’x187’

$389,900 Call Jane

ONE OF A KIND HOME!

- 4-Level Split - Extensive upgrades & remodeling - Unique open concept - Spacious kitchen open to upper & lower Levels - 4 bdrm, 2 baths

$359,000 Call Deb SOLID BUNGALOW, FANTASTIC LOT! - Well built bungalow, 800 sqft - 3 bdrm, 1.5 baths - Large fully fenced lot - Double garage - Revenue property

Book your showing today! $169,900 Call Lisa

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

www.ponokaproperties.com

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 21

Local business sees big potential in ties with Missouri

By Mustafa Eric

The visit also provided a rare opportunity for the students of the International Business Department of the Red Deer College to put their theoretical knowledge to practice.

Each company represented in the business delegation sponsored an RDC student representative who conducted research prior to the mission and traveled to Missouri to experience hands-on networking, economic development and conducting business internationally. The RDC students also had the opportunity to meet with University of Missouri students.

“The mission was very successful from my perspective,” said Van Campen.

“The opportunities are there for both sides to work on.”

The recently completed business tour by a central Alberta delegation to the Midwestern US state of Missouri has raised hopes among local businesses that connections with various partners there could bring substantial benefits to central Alberta economy.

George Van Campen, Operations Manager at Alberta Flares, one of the business representatives who joined the mission, said the trip to Canada’s southern neighbour had proved to be promising in more than one aspect.

“Some of the companies we met were heavily automated, which gave us some insight into what we want to do as far as moving forward ourselves on the automation side (is concerned), “ he said.

Speaking of their plans Jane Wierzba to diversify their business 403-358-8770 real estate central alberta activity, Van Campen also Buying or Selling, 6000 - 48 Ave., Ponoka call Jane! said the visit had provided excellent connections ATTENTION INVESTORS for the delegation repreOR CURRENT RENTERS senting Central Alberta businesses.

The trip, which was organized as part of a developing relationship • Over 1200 between Central Alberta: sq ft fully Access Prosperity and the developed Missouri International on 2 levels Trade and Investment, came as a return visit for • 3 bdrms a trade and investment & 2 baths mission by a Missouri • Large delegation to Alberta last landscaped year. backyard The Alberta delegation visited several cities w/a great in the course of the visit deck and met stakeholders in • Quick areas of both business and possession economic development.

Among the businesses • New price and projects visited were will below University of Missouri’s recent 3-D prototyping lab, carappraisal bon fibre manufacturers and a landfill gas recovery • Original and power generation fashowhome cility.

• Seller Van Campen said the Motivated visit had shown that there were opportunities not only for bilateral trade but also for investments that could generate employment in central Alberta.

MODERN AND INVITING

$

225,000

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

1-800-392-8658

403-783-5512

OPEN HOUSE Thursday, Nov. 21 5 - 7 pm 3704 - 46 St.

SEE NEWS HAPPENING? SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS Email: editorial@ponokanews.com 403-783-3311

real estate central alberta

6000 • 48 Ave, Ponoka

Deb Stevens

Jane Wierzba 403-358-8770

real estate central alberta

Buying or Selling, call Jane!

6000 - 48 Ave., Ponoka

Move in Ready

403-704-3152

AFFORDABLE ACREAGE LIVING!

Extensive Upgrades pg

ISTING

NEW L

• 1288 sq ft Bungalow • Attached Single & Detached Double Garage • 2.9 Acres • Open Floor Plan • Many Upgrades

- 3+1 bdrm bungalow - Fully finished basement - Extensive upgrades including maple kitchen w/granite - Double detached garage, large deck & spacious backyard $259,900

395,000

$

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

COMMERCIAL

403-783-5512

1-800-392-8658

RED DEER LAKE Full time living or recreational property at Red Deer Lake. 3 bdrm. Very clean property shows pride of ownership. Mature subdivision.

Great location on main street of Ponoka. Total space 2750 sq. ft building and lot only.

Call Wayne 403-704-0864 Beautiful building sites just a short drive south of Ponoka in Jada Estates. Building restrictions make this property an exclusive area for upscale homes. Seven acreages available. Prices have now been adjusted.

$

189,900

Call Wayne 403-704-0864

BARE LOT

In north end of town for development. Ideal for duplex.

Call Wayne 403-704-0864

LIKE NEW CONDITION

Great family home ready to move into. Two bdrms. on main, 4 pc. bath with jetted tub. Main floor laundry, fully developed basement with 2 bdrms, lg. family room/rec area and 4 pc. bath. Other features incl. patio, double attached garage, beautifully landscaped yard with gazebo. Many more features too numerous to mention. $349,000

Call Wayne 403-704-0864

A MUST SEE!

For details call Annette 403-704-7023

DEER CREEK

Call Wayne 403-704-0864

Now pre-selling choice treed acreages close to town.

NEW LISTING

Riverside bungalow immediate possession. 3 bdrms. up and 2 down. Tons of upgrades, single garage, fenced yard, nice home, ready to move in.

Call Brian 403-704-7018

COUNTRY RESIDENTIAL

Call Brian 403-704-7018

SOUTH OF PONOKA Two 10 acre parcels.

Walk-out opportunity.

Call Brian 403-704-7018

This 10 acre parcel is a perfect choice to build that dream home and have plenty of room to keep livestock, grow trees or organic gardening.

Nice lay of land with #1 soil, service borders property. Located just minutes north of town. REDUCED $89,000.00 Terms available.

Call Brian for more details. 403.704.7018

RED DEER LAKE

This waterfront 3 bdrm cabin is a beautiful setting.

Call Brian Hatala 403-704-7018

RIVERSIDE

.64 acre, great development property. Chance to develop up to 5 lots.

Property priced $20,000 under assessed value. Offered for sale at $60,000. Call Brian 403-704-7018

EXCLUSIVE LISTING

Your choice of 2 - 2.4 acre parcels located within ½ mile of Ponoka town limits to the north. These properties are priced to move quickly.

Starting at $89,000.00 each.

Call Brian 403-704-7018

CHARACTER HOME

Well kept older home on quiet street, close to downtown and all amenities. Small but charming 2 bdrm with open loft, mature treed lot, off-street parking and many more nice features. This home is offered for sale under $150,000.00. Good revenue or first time home-buyer property.

Call Brian 403-704-7018

Your host: Brian Hatala

230,000.00 403-704-7018

WAYNE McGARVEY

BRIAN HATALA

$69,000

Wow! This 4 bdrm, 3 bath bi-level is move-in ready. New bamboo hardwood floors on main level. Fully finished, main floor laundry. A must to see.

Offered for sale at

Riverside - bungalow, nice $ home. Finished up & down.

Associate Broker

ANNETTE DODDS

SHAWNA LOW Broker

PROFESSIONAL REALTORS OF JOHN W. LOW AGENCIES INC.

OR LEASE FOR ONLY PURCHASE FINANCE FOR

2013 F-150 XLT SUPER CAB 4X4 5.0L

$

Bi-weekly for 72 months with $2,100 down or equivalent trade.

Per month for 24 months with $2,100 down or equivalent trade.

195 4.49% $ 380 1.99% **

@

††

OR OWN FOR ONLY

OR LEASE A SUPER CREW FOR JUST APR

@

$

Offers include $9,250 manufacturer rebate and $1,750 freight and air tax.

28,749 $18 *

††

A MONTH MORE.

“ I WOULD DEFINITELY SWAP MY RIDE

FOR THIS F-150.”

- WILL G.

ENDS DEC 2ND

13113MF0

NCE. A M R O F R E CY AND P N E I C I F F E ANTAGE. L V D A FUE T S O O B S THE ECO THAT’S

OR OWN FOR ONLY

U P TO

$

EBATES CT U R E R R IN MANUFAMOST NEW MODELS SHOWN) ON AMOUNT SUPER CREW

$

$

9, 250

Bi-weekly for 72 months with $0 down or equivalent trade.

295 6.09 **

@ †

(2013 F-150

UPGRADE AVAILABLE

ECOBOOST

APR

2013 F-250 SUPER DUTY SUPER CAB XLT 4X4 WESTERN EDITION

%

APR

Offers include $8,500 in manufacturer rebates and $1,750 freight and air tax.

38,499 *

Reverse Camera /// Tailgate Step /// Sync®††† /// Foglamps /// Remote Start/// Black Platform Running Boards /// 18" Bright Machined Aluminum Wheels

Western Edition Package includes:

10.6L/100km 27MPG HWY*** / 15.0L/100km 19MPG CITY***

albertaford.ca

WISE BUYERS READ THE LEGAL COPY: Vehicle(s) may be shown with optional equipment. Dealer may sell or lease for less. Limited time offers. Offers may be cancelled at any time without notice. Dealer order or transfer may be required as inventory may vary by dealer. See your Ford Dealer for complete details or call the Ford Customer Relationship Centre at 1-800-565-3673. For factory orders, a customer may either take advantage of eligible Ford retail customer promotional incentives/offers available at the time of vehicle factory order or time of vehicle delivery, but not both or combinations thereof. †Until December 2, 2013, receive $500/ $750/ $1,000/ $1,250/ $1,500/ $1,750/ $2,000/ $2,250/ $2,500/ $2,750/ $3,000/ $3,500/ $3,750/ $4,000/ $4,250/ $4,500/ $4,750/ $5,500/ $5,750/ $6,500/ $6,750/ $8,000/ $8,250/ $8,500/ $9,250/ $10,500 in Manufacturer Rebates with the purchase or lease of a new 2014 [Escape (excluding 2.0L)]/ 2014 [Taurus SE, F-150 Regular Cab XL 4x2 (Value Leader)] / 2014[Focus BEV, Escape 2.0L,Transit Connect, E Series]/ 2013 C-Max/ 2013 [Escape S, E-Series]/ 2014 [Mustang V6 Coupe] / 2013 [Fiesta S, Mustang V6 Coupe, Edge AWD (excluding SE), F-150 Regular Cab XL 4x2 (Value Leader), 2013 and 2014 F-350 to F-550 Chassis Cabs]/ 2013 [Explorer Base]/ 2013 [Fusion S], 2014 [Taurus (excluding SE)]/ 2013 [Fiesta (excluding S)]/ 2013 [Focus S, Edge FWD (excluding SE)]/ 2013 [Focus (excluding S and BEV), Flex, Fusion (excluding S)]/ 2013 [Mustang V6 Premium, Explorer (excluding Base)], 2014 Mustang [V6 Premium]/ 2013 [Taurus SE, Escape 1.6L, Transit Connect (excluding Electric)]/ 2014 [Mustang GT]/ 2013 [Escape 2.0L]/ 2013 [Mustang GT]/ 2013 [Expedition]/ 2013 [Taurus (excluding SE)], 2014 [F-150 Regular Cab (excluding XL 4x2)]/ 2014 [F-250 to F-450 (excluding Chassis Cabs) - Gas Engine]/ 2014 [F-150 Super Cab and Super Crew]/ 2013 [Focus BEV]/ 2013 [F-150 Regular Cab (excluding XL 4x2)]/ 2013 [F-250 to F-450 (excluding Chassis Cabs) - Gas Engine], 2014 [F-250 to F-450 (excluding Chassis Cabs) - Diesel Engine]/ 2013 [F-150 Super Cab and Super Crew]/ 2013 [F-250 to F-450 (excluding Chassis Cabs) - Diesel Engine] - all Raptor, GT500, BOSS 302, and Medium Truck models excluded. Manufacturer Rebates are not combinable with any fleet consumer incentives. *Purchase a new 2013 F-150 Super Cab XLT 4x4 with 5.0L engine/2013 F-150 Super Crew XLT 4x4 with 5.0L engine/2013 F-250 XLT Super Cab 4x4 Super Duty Western Edition package with power seats for $28,749/$31,249/$38,499 after Manufacturer Rebate of $9,250/$9,250/$8,500 is deducted. Taxes payable on full amount of purchase price after total Manufacturer Rebate has been deducted. Offers include freight and air tax of $1,750 but exclude optional features, administration and registration fees (administration fees may vary by dealer), fuel fill charge and all applicable taxes. Manufacturer Rebates are not combinable with any fleet consumer incentives. **Until December 2, 2013, receive 4.49%/6.09% annual percentage rate (APR) purchase financing on a 2013 F-150 Super Cab XLT 4x4 with 5.0L engine/2013 F-250 XLT Super Cab 4x4 Super Duty Western Edition package with power seats for a maximum of 72 months to qualified retail customers, on approved credit (OAC) from Ford Credit. Not all buyers will qualify for the lowest APR payment. Purchase financing monthly payment is $423/$618 (the sum of twelve (12) monthly payments divided by 26 periods gives payee a bi-weekly payment of $195/$295 with a down payment of $2,100/$2,100 or equivalent trade-in. Cost of borrowing is $3,800/$7,087.59 or APR of 4.49%/6.09% and total to be repaid is $30,449.12/$46,056.71. Offers include a Manufacturer Rebate of $9,250/$8,500 and freight and air tax of $1,750 but exclude optional features, administration and registration fees (administration fees may vary by dealer), fuel fill charge and all applicable taxes. Taxes payable on full amount of purchase price after Manufacturer Rebate deducted. Bi-Weekly payments are only available using a customer initiated PC (Internet Banking) or Phone Pay system through the customer’s own bank (if offered by that financial institution). The customer is required to sign a monthly payment contract with a first payment date one month from the contract date and to ensure that the total monthly payment occurs by the payment due date. Bi-weekly payments can be made by making payments equivalent to the sum of 12 monthly payments divided by 26 bi-weekly periods every two weeks commencing on the contract date. Dealer may sell for less. Offers vary by model and not all combinations will apply. ††Until December 2, 2013, lease a new F-150 Super Cab XLT 4x4 with 5.0L engine/2013 F-150 Super Crew XLT 4x4 with 5.0L engine and get 1.99% annual percentage rate (APR) financing for up to 24 months on approved credit (OAC) from Ford Credit. Not all buyers will qualify for the lowest APR payment. Lease a vehicle with a value of $28,749/$31,249 at 1.99% APR for up to 24 months with $2,100 down or equivalent trade in, monthly payment is $380/$398, total lease obligation is $11,220/$11,652 and optional buyout is $18,427/$20,568. Offers include Delivery Allowance of $9,250. Taxes payable on full amount of lease financing price after any price adjustment is deducted. Offers include freight and air tax of $1,750 but exclude optional features, administration and registration fees(administration fees may vary by dealer), fuel fill charge and all applicable taxes. Additional payments required for PPSA, registration, security deposit, NSF fees (where applicable), excess wear and tear, and late fees. Some conditions and mileage restrictions apply. Excess kilometrage charges are 12¢per km for Fiesta, Focus, C-Max, Fusion and Escape; 16¢per km for E-Series, Mustang, Taurus, Taurus-X, Edge, Flex, Explorer, F-Series, MKS, MKX, MKZ, MKT and Transit Connect; 20¢per km for Expedition and Navigator, plus applicable taxes. Excess kilometrage charges subject to change, see your local dealer for details. All prices are based on Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. ***Estimated fuel consumption ratings for 2013 F-150 4X4 5.0L V8 6-speed automatic transmission: [15.0L/100km (19MPG) City, 10.6L/100km (27MPG) Hwy]. Fuel consumption ratings based on Transport Canada approved test methods. Actual fuel consumption will vary based on road conditions, vehicle loading, vehicle equipment, vehicle condition, and driving habits. ‡When properly equipped. Max. payloads of 3,120 lbs/3,100 lbs with 5.0L Ti-VCT V8/3.5L V6 EcoBoost 4x2 engines. Class is Full–Size Pickups under 8,500 lbs GVWR. ‡‡F-Series is the best-selling pickup truck in Canada for 47 years in a row based on Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association statistical sales report, December 2012. †††Some mobile phones and some digital media players may not be fully compatible with SYNC® – check www.syncmyride.com for a listing of mobile phones, media players, and features supported. Driving while distracted can result in loss of vehicle control, accident and injury. Certain MyFord Touch™ functions require compatible mobile devices. Some functions are not available while driving. Ford recommends that drivers use caution when using mobile phones, even with voice commands. Only use mobile phones and other devices, even with voice commands, not essential to driving when it is safe to do so and in compliance with applicable laws. SYNC is optional on most new Ford vehicles. ©2013 Sirius Canada Inc. “SiriusXM”, the SiriusXM logo, channel names and logos are trademarks of SiriusXM Radio Inc. and are used under licence. ©2013 Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. All rights reserved.

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Page 22 PONOKA NEWS Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

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Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 23

Giving Up Kathryn (left) and Victoria Wyering Contributed photo

Successful sisters to keep achieving together

By Mustafa Eric It is quite rare that one witnesses twins having excellent relations and cooperation while achieving the same degree of success and keeping their interests focused on similar areas.

Kathryn and Victoria Wyering of Ponoka have finished St. Augustine Catholic School with stellar grades and they both scooped lots of awards during St Augustine Catholic School’s recent recognition day.

They both stood out in categories of academic excellence while also being recognized for their active participation in extra-curricular activities.

Kathryn and Victoria are now studying in Red Deer but they now have set their sights on different careers.

Having received, appropriately, the Ponoka Agriculture Society Award, Kathryn is currently studying crop science in Red Deer College with plans to move on to University of Alberta to further her studies.

Victoria, on the other hand, having received, again fittingly, the award of the Ponoka Chamber of Commerce, is studying business.

But Kathryn says the career choices they made do not necessarily mean that they will part ways in their professional lives.

“I am going into agriculture and she is going into business,” said Kathryn, “but we want to stay close and maybe we could possibly combine our careers together, business and agriculture could go together.”

As Kathryn is planning to take over the family farm at the end of her studies, both sisters hope that Victoria could play a part as the business manager of the farm op-

eration.

As part of these plans, Kathryn will most likely return to live in Ponoka area but Victoria says she may continue to live in neighbourhoods closer to Red Deer.

Having come a long way together, the twin sisters both agree that the friendly and constructive competition between them have played a major part in their successful school performance and extracurricular activities.

They have both mentored and tutored younger students in their off-school hours and they have both learned to play piano.

“We have been playing piano for 11 years” said Victoria. As for what they like to play, “whatever we can put our hands on,” answers Kathryn, who is the more talkative of the two.

The young girls agree that they have small differences in character and behaviour, with Victoria praising her sister for being “smarter” and having a sense of humor. Kathryn agrees that she is the more outgoing character of the two.

When it comes to their academic achievements, what were the main factors?

Kathryn says she thinks studying at St. Augustine Catholic School made a difference mainly because the classes were smaller and they could

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build closer relationships with their teachers.

How has having a twin sister affected them?

Both Kathryn and Victoria agree that the urge not to stay behind the other sister did push them to be better and more efficient in both their academic and extra curricular activities.

But there was more to it: Kathryn says it was always a factor of confidence.

“When there is something that you are scared to try alone, then you are not alone.”

The solidarity and cooperation between the two sisters have never been seriously dented through all their years together.

While there were small flare-ups of disagreements over things like “you wore my jeans?”, both Kathryn and Victoria say their mutual love and respect for each other have always been the basis of their relationship.

On Friday, November 8th, we is apparently moving along well with got the first U.S.D.A World Agriculgood quality and good yields reported tural Supply and Demand Estimates while the condition of the Argentinian (W.A.S.D.E.) report in two months. wheat crop is improving. However, the The expectation was for higher corn USDA still downgraded the Argentine and soybean yields and overall producwheat crop by one million tonnes to tion, but the numbers that came out 11 million tonnes total production this weren’t exactly as high as the market year (other estimates range from 8.8 had priced in, especially in corn and million tonnes to 10.5 million tonnes). soybeans. Higher yields than estiAlso, with 94% per cent of the grain mated (160.4 bushels an acre for corn harvest done in the Ukraine as well, Brennan Turner & 43 bushels an acre for soybeans) but already 57 million tonnes have been smaller harvested acres led to a move FarmLead Breakfast Brief taken off, beating the previous record higher in the markets. Demand also two years ago in 2011 of 56 million was raised for both corn and soybeans, tonnes. including a 275-million bushel uptick for corn and With more grain out there in the world, Canahigher exports and crush demand for soybeans in dian pulse super-buyer, Alliance Grain Traders, said this 2013/14 marketing year. As such, ending stocks in their most recent quarterly filing that they are for the 2013/14 marketing year came in below ex- looking into expanding their business into grains pectations, indicating that there’s less of those grains and oilseeds. Business so far for the Regina-based available. Finally, wheat was slightly lower initially company is good as Turkey and India welcome more because the U.S.D.A. raised both U.S. and world lentils imports. Specifically, pulse growers in the ending stocks. former are planting more higher revenue potential With corn still near 3-year lows, it’s been rucrops (not lentils) while India has banned exports moured for quite some time that there could be a decrease in the minimum amount of corn required of lentils until March as they need to meet a 20.5 to produce ethanol in the US (the “ethanol man- million-tonne-per-year demand (and growing!). date”) which could come from the E.P.A. as early Alliance, which already buys grains & oilseeds in as this week. These two factors make it entirely pos- Australia through a subsidiary there, would be in sible that U.S. farmers are more inclined to switch direct competition with the big boys, specifically some corn acres out for wheat (could we see corn the pulse supply agreement with Cargill that they/ll rotating out in Canada as well? Very possible). The likely have to give up.

To growth, biggest substitutions are likely to take place outside Brennan Turner, President, FarmLead.com the Corn Belt in states such as North Dakota and Brennan Turner is originally from Foam Lake, Kansas (Northern Plains region). Additionally, good moisture events in these areas of the Northern Plains SK, where his family started farming the land in have provided some of the best winter wheat plant- the 1920s. After completing his degree in economing conditions in years. Also providing downside ics from Yale University and then playing some pro support to soybeans is the fact the U.S. Food and hockey, Mr. Turner spent some time working in fiDrug Administration is on track to ban partially hy- nance before starting FarmLead.com, a risk-free, drogenated oils, the main conduit for trans fats (and transparent online and now mobile grain marketcorresponding links to heart disease). This ban could place (app available for iOS & Android). His weekly result in up to four million U.S. soybean acres lost, column is a summary of his free, daily market note, the FarmLead Breakfast Brief. He can be reached according to the American Soybean Association.

Across the rest of the world, wheat conditions via email (b.turner@farmlead.com) or phone (1look pretty decent. The Western Australian harvest 855-332-7653).

CALL 403-783-3311 TO ADVERTISE

VJV MARKET REPORT MARKET REPORT NOVEMBER 13, 2013

On Wednesday, November 13, 2013 -5303- head of cattle went through our rings & 1619 head on the Canadian Satellite - TOTAL -6922

SLAUGHTER CATTLE D1 - D2 cows D3 - D4 cows Holstein cows Heiferettes Bologna Bulls Feeder bulls

71.00-75.00 62.00-69.00 45.00-68.00 75.00-95.00 70.00-85.00 85.00-105.00

Good Bred Cows 900.00-1100.00 Older Bred Cows N/A Good Bred Heifers: 1100.00-1250.00 Cow/calf pairs (younger) NONE Cow/Calf pairs (older) N/A

STOCKERS AND FEEDERS Good Feeder Steers 1000 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 900 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 800 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 700 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 600 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 500 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 400 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 300 lbs Plus:

118.00-127.50 132.00-142.00 140.00-145.00 139.00-150.00 148.00-156.00 158.00-175.00 170.00-185.00 185.00-200.00

Dairy Steers Baby Calves Dairy Type: Baby Calves Beef Type:

95.00-105.00 50.00- 75.00 145.00 170.00

Hay: Sq Bales Straw: Sq. Bales Greenfeed: Sq. Bales.

3.75-5.75 2.50-3.00 2.25 -

Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers

Rd Bales Rd Bales

114.00-118.00 117.00-124.00 125.00-131.00 130.00-138.00 130.00-138.00 138.00-143.00 140.00-150.00 148.00-160.00

35.00-62.00 NONE

NOVEMBER 25TH - BISON SALE Vold Jones & Vold Auction Co. Ltd. | Foothills Livestock Auction | Dawson Creek Auction Vold Jones & Vold Co. Ltd. © 2006 4410-Hwy 2A, Ponoka Alberta, Canada, T4J 1J8

Page 24 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

The First Phone Call from Heaven by Mitch Albom hoping to hear from their own c.2013, Harper $24.99 / $32.99 Canada 272 loved ones beyond. pages Sullivan “Sully” Harding The call almost scared you half to death. thought they were all fools.

First of all, it woke you up and everybody knows There was no heaven, no bliss, that middle-of-the-night phone calls are never good no peace. He knew that, because news. Secondly, you were sound asleep and third, the best woman he’d ever known who calls a wrong number at three a.m.? had been taken from him, his It took you awhile to get back to sleep that night. son was now motherless, and You cursed the phone as soon as the alarm went off, this “heaven” stuff was a scam. but read “The First Phone Call from Heaven” by Terri He had time on his hands, and Mitch Albom and you might look differently at the Schlichenmeyer he planned to find whoever was device next time. doing this to his neighbors, to exTess Rafferty was occupied with a kitchen task The Bookworm pose the hoax. when her phone rang. Irritated, she let her answerAnd then Sully’s phone being machine pick up the call, but when she heard the voice on the speaker, she stopped everything she was gan to ring…

“The First Phone Call from Heaven” reminded me doing. of one of those movies that you could easily watch every It was her mother on the phone. night for the rest of your life.

Her mother had been dead for four years.

The beginning characters in this book come from all Katherine Yellin was the first to talk about her phone call because her sister, Diane – dead at age forty-six - had walks of life; they’re normal people who just happen to told her to speak up. Then Tess admitted she’d gotten be getting what every grief-stricken person wants. Then calls, too, and by weeks’ end, six people from little Cold- author Mitch Albom drops a non-believer into the situawater, Michigan, had received phone calls from heaven. tion and he lets us watch everything twist and unravel in Soon, Coldwater residents weren’t the only ones to the midst of media sensationalism, mob mentality, halftruths, fervent faith, and painful realizations that may or know about the miracle.

Over in nearby Alpena, the local TV station sent one may not be valid. It’s uncomfortable to watch, mostly of their disposable reporters to see what was going on. because you know what’s going to happen to them, to Amy Penn wasn’t a believer, but she figured the best way their town, and to the phone calls that come a little too to escape weekend shifts at the station was to scoop an on-schedule.

Yes, this book is predictable but it’s also entertaining, exclusive story.

Once the national media heard about the phone calls uplifting, and it can be shared with pretty much anybody. from heaven, though, that wasn’t easy to do. Believers, And if that’s what you need to read this week, “The First the faithful, and the prayerful crowded into Coldwater, Phone Call from Heaven” is a good call.

Ponoka Capitol Theatre

READ

Submitted by Star Catholic Schools Trustee Dan Svitich

4904 - 50th St. Ph. 403-783-3639

PLAYING Nov. 21 to 28 SCREEN #1

KLAGLAHACHIE FINE ARTS SOCIETY Rodgers & Hammerstein’s

Starting Thursday Nov. 21 @ 8:00 pm

Hunger Games Catching Fire

5015 – 46 Avenue

2:00 PM Sat-Sun 8:00 PM Daily

November 29, 30 & December 1 December 6, 7, 8 • December 13, 14 Dinners at 6; Shows at 7:30

SCREEN #2 For info call: 783-3639

NEW SEATS INSTALLED! Tuesdays & Matinees

$

00 all

4

seats

Catholic school distinctive is its attempt to generate a community climate in the school that is permeated by Each year, the Catholic community around the the Gospel spirit of freedom and love. It tries to relate world sets a day aside, known as Catholic Education all of human culture to the good news of salvation so Sunday (November 3rd, 2013 this year), to recognize that the light of faith will illumine everything that the the unique and special blessing we have to be able to students will gradually come to learn about the world, integrate our faith with the learning environment in about life, and about the human person”.

As providers of Catholic education in a faith-filled our schools. On October 28, 1965, the Second Vatienvironment, we recognize that our students have an can Council promulgated the Declaration on Christian Education, Gravissimum Educationis. The document opportunity to grow, both in their spiritual lives and describes the distinguishing characteristic of a Catho- their learning journey, and we are blessed with the oplic school in this way: “The Catholic school pursues portunity to help them explore their personal journey cultural goals and the natural development of youth to at every possible opportunity. Our school staff support the same degree as any other school. What makes the and assist parents and guardians as their child’s primary educators, as they strive to help their child reach their full spiritual, emotional, physical and educational potential. To ensure everything we do and learn Saturday at 1:00 pm - Jam and dance. Keep November the 29th open for the Drop-in’s Christmas Banquet. at our schools is for the Cost $15.00 pet person. Catered-bring your own dishes and flatware please. Entertainment after dinner by glory of God, everything Al and the Pacemakers.

Pickle ball is underway. We do not have the proper sized court as yet so we are just practicing and getting we do at our schools is ready for spring. Please come out and join us Thursday evenings @7:00 p.m. or Tuesday @ 1:00 p.m. Great looked at through the lens exercise challenging your body and co-ordination. of faith.

Quilting Seminar November 21 & 22.

Computer Course November 23 10 a.m - 2:00 p.m At STAR Catholic School Division and our Monday Billiards 9:00 a.m. Monday through Saturday 50 cents per game Honour system.

Monday Bridge 1:15 p.m - Ernie Hoffmann, Don McLennan, Marinus schools, we see each of Monday Whist 1:30 p.m - Eric Ostergaard, Joyce Chesterman our more than 3,300 stuTuesday and Thursday Exercise class 9:30 a.m. fun exercise dents as uniquely-created Tuesday Shuffleboard 7:00 p.m. - Carol Merkle, Lucille Vold Wednesday Sewing Guild 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. children of God. And with Wednesday Cribbage 1:00 p.m. - Ken Gascon, Rose Vandersteen this in mind, our trustees, Wednesday Duplicate Bridge 7:00 p.m. - Don and Ethel McLelland teachers, administration Wednesday Floor Curling 7:00 p.m. - Esher Schnell, Alfred Raugust, Jeanette Faupel, Pearl Carnham, John Good teams, and support staff, Thursday Weaving 1:00 p.m. Phone Betty @ 783-3029 are committed to guiding Thursday Partner Bridge 1:15 p.m. - A. Fierlbeck, Margaret Martin and supporting our stuThursday Art Club - Noon to 4:00 p.m dents, as they strive for Thursday Pickle Ball 7:00 p.m. and Tuesdays @ 1:00 p.m.

Friday “500” 1:00 p.m. - Joyce Chesterman, George Mackenzie their potential in Christ.

Memberships on sale now - $10.00 person - really inexpensive.

Visit www.youtube.com/ user/starcatholic for a speTo 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 cial Catholic Education general public (wedding, funeral, and birthday groups) to inquire about rentals services and prices early in Sunday video message their planning. We may fit your bill! from our superintendent.

Ponoka Drop-In Activities

146 min

Rated PG

Through the lens of faith

Ticket Prices DINNER AND SHOW Adults: $45 • Students (13 - 18): $35 • Youth (6 to 12): $30 Children (under 6): $10 SHOW ONLY Adults: $25 • Students (13 - 18): $15 8 Youth (6 to 12): $10 Children (under 6): Free Dinners are available on the Fridays and Saturdays.

Sunday Performances are afternoon matinees. (2 pm) For more information or tickets, call 403-783-4087 Venue: Ponoka United Church 5020 - 52 Ave. Ponoka, AB Presented by arrangement with R and H Productions

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 25

Community Xmas returns for another year of fellowship

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye the kids again,” explained Hepp.

One family even donated 30 boxes of chocolates The tradition of bringing members of the comfor the event. “The best thing about Community munity together on Christmas Day is going strong.

Christmas is it is Community Christmas.”

Organizer Bob Hepp said he looks forward to Any donations can be made to Hepp or at the seeing many families and community members come to Community Christmas, which is designed Servus Credit Union under the account of Ponoka to give all those willing a place to go on Dec. 25th. Community Christmas. And because it’s ChristThe plans are already underway and the Kinsmen mas, volunteers will be packing food to go for Community Centre has already been booked. “It’s those who want to take some home until it runs a done deal,” said Hepp.

Last year 230 people signed the guestbook and Hepp is getting some help from Carla Prediger and Val Schabert to organize volunteers. While he organizes the meal, Prediger and Schabert will manage the division of labor, assigning volunteers to specific tasks and ensuring everyone knows what they are doing on the day.

“I want these two girls to co-ordinate the volunteers for me,” said Hepp.

He enjoys having so much help from people and feels the most important part is to give people a chance to be together. A colouring table and gifts will be set up at the hall with 300 stuffed animals donated from the United Church.

A Family Fun Show with great mix of “It’s like a regular banquet…We’re going Christmas Western-Roots & Country Music, to have a candy bar for

out.

“Everybody gets a meal,” said Hepp.

For those who cannot get around easily, Hepp has persuaded the Wheelchair Van Society to drop off and pick up people. He advises caregivers must accompany those people with special needs as volunteers at

the dinner are not equipped to help.

Anyone needing transportation can call the society in advance.

He hopes more people will be able to come down using the Wheelchair Van Society. Volunteers who want to help should call Carla Prediger at 403-783-4078 or Val Schabert at 403-783-8799.

A Cowgirl Chritmas with Award Winning Artists

Doris Daley & Eli Barsi

Cowboy Poetry, Humor and Yodeling!

Wednesday, November 27 Ponoka Senior Drop-in Centre 4015 46 ave 7:00 pm When you

ADVERTISE

TICKETS AND INFORMATION:

403-783-5405

403-783-3311

Make cash not trash!

#ShouldaUsedRedDeer

Almost Midnight Madness Friday, Nov. 29

Page 26 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP AT PONOKA’S

ALMOST MIDNIGHT

Madness F R I DAY, N OV E M B E R 2 9 , 2 0 1 3

We have teamed up with our local merchants to help stock the Ponoka Food Bank.

Before you shop this year, make sure you stop by with a non-perishable food item.

Not only will it go to a good cause, you will win a prize.

1 2 3

Stop by the Ponoka News starting at 6:00 p.m. on November 29 and drop off a non-perishable food item for our local food bank.

Pick an envelope off our Christmas tree (one per person). Everyone wins. Some of the great prizes include Red Deer Rebels tickets, Red Deer Rebels autographed hockey stick, RDC Theatre tickets and much more from our local merchants (while prizes last).

Shop Ponoka and enjoy Christmas Madness Savings! Support your Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce events and make this a holiday season to remember.

Shop these Participating Businesses for Extra-Special Sales and Offers: •Altitude Laser Spa •A&W •Bibles For Missions •Bruce’s Tru Hardware •Busted Lingerie •Central Office Supplies •Cilantro & Chive •Dino’s Restaurant •Dot’s Crafts •Flowers for You •Hamilton’s IGA •Hammy’s Spirits •Home Furnishings •Jones Boys •KRAZE FM •Kelly Bell •Lyon’s Jewellery •New Beginning •No Frills • Ponoka Chamber of Commerce •Ponoka Golf Club

•Ponoka Health Foods •Ponoka News •Rexall Drugs •Santa’s Store •Sears •Shoppers Drug Mart •Sisters Country Rustics •Sommer Home Bldg.Centre •Steel Magnolias •Sunny 94 •Tantec Electronics •The Brick •The Cutting Edge •The Liquor Store •The Walrus & the Carpenter •Twisted Label •Wedin’s •Western Budget •Wildflower Grill •Your Dollar Store With More

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 27

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403-783-6600

Senior girls’ volleyball race for zones will be close

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye With only two other teams capable of beating the Ponoka Secondary Campus (PSC) senior girls volleyball team, competition is fierce.

Coach Joely Churchill says Sylvan Lake and Lacombe make it a three-way battle to win two spots in zones, which are set for Nov. 23 in Sylvan Lake. “Sylvan Lake hadn’t lost a set until they played us.”

Each team remains undefeated except for one losing to the other; Sylvan Lake recently beat Lacombe 3 sets to 0, Lacombe beat the Broncs 3-1 and the Broncs beat Sylvan Lake 3-2.

Only the top teams move forward to provincials.

“Our girls are in the final push for the zones tournament,” said Churchill. “I feel confident that every single person on this team is ready.

They’re fully committed to take this right to the end.”

Indeed, the Broncs’ game against the Wetaskiwin Sabres Nov. 14 was a strong victory winning in three sets.

With three grade 12 players on the roster, Churchill feels they are a part

of the whole team. Every team member is a part of the puzzle, she said. “(For) zones it all depends if they show up, all 12 of them,” she added.

“It takes every single person to be on for one day.”

The Broncs played with a strong confidence against the Sabres, taking each point and going with the momentum of the game. They had fewer unforced errors and were able to capitalize on the Sabres’ uncertainty at key points in the match.

And players were ready for just about anything the Sabres threw at them. Blocks were quickly returned by the Broncs who were comfortable passing the ball to each other even when the ball was returned quickly.

At this level of play, Churchill is preparing her athletes for collegelevel volleyball. One of the reasons she enjoys coaching is to improve on players’ skills and to have them play volleyball competitively.

Players have ramped up practice to four days a week rather than two and Churchill is working closely with her team.

Shaye Leidenus reaches for the ball against a Wetaskiwin Sabres’ player Nov. 13. The Broncs senior girls volleyball team won 3-0.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Senior boys place second in volleyball league

By Amelia Naismith

At their last regular season game against Camrose, the Ponoka Secondary Campus senior boys’ team won 3-2, placing them second in the league.

Submitted photo

After beating Camrose 3-2 in their last regular game of the season, the Ponoka Secondary Campus senior boys’ volleyball team is sitting second in the league and gearing up for zones this weekend.

The boys lost their first set 25-20, won the second 25-16, lost the third 26-24, won the fourth 27-25 and won the fifth 15-13.

Coach Ron Labrie says the team has always had to play its hardest and change up their own game when playing Camrose. “We, for whatever reason, seem to struggle against Camrose’s style of ball.”

He says their plays are arbitrary and their defense is “scrappy.”

“It was fun, it was stressful. It seemed like you couldn’t do anything at times. They’re so unpredictable,” explained Davis Labrie, setter.

Ponoka was down 10 points in the fourth game, with 19-9 the lowest point for them. To compete against Camrose the team had to change up its defense tactics. The blocks were moved up in front and the wingers were pulled up into the court. “Usually we play them a bit flatter,” said Ron. “I called a time out and said it’s up to you to win, and we did. They managed to rally back,” he added.

The boys ended up with the same season results as Camrose but sit one spot behind them because Camrose had one more set; meaning they’ll host zones.

“We plan on winning it and we expect to. We’re

the team to beat, I think. It’s ours to loose,” said Davis.

Davis’ teammate Austyn Nagribianko says this year the boys have mixed emotions heading into zones after last year, where they came in second after loosing to Wetaskiwin.

Even as one of the top teams the boys agree there’s still a lot of stiff competition they’re looking at. Especially with Camrose and Lacombe, the boys went to five sets with each team. “There’s no guarantee on the (November) 23,” said Davis.

This year, due to construction at the Secondary Campus, the boys never had a home game. “It’s always nice to have a gym you can call yours,” said Davis, who feels not having a home gym affected the boys’ energy levels and moral.

Always having to travel also cut the team’s fan base. “The only fans we usually have are the parents and staff instead of the student body,” said Davis.

“We’re thankful for the support of the fans who came out each time,” Nagribianko added.

For the nine new boys on the team this year, they’ve never had the chance to play a home game as senior boys volleyball players.

With only five veteran players, the new players make up a majority of the team. “We’ve got lots of guys we can rely on,” said Ron. “They’re a key factor in our success,” Davis added.

Page 28 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Inclement weather cancels many hockey games

This Wedins Warriors goalie Wyatt Avery concentrates to save the puck against the Lacombe Red Rockets offence Nov. 16. The team lost 8-2.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

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Many minor hockey games were cancelled around central Alberta due to heavy snowfall and unsafe road conditions last weekend.

Some teams did get to play despite the bad weather, mostly those who were close to home. Ponoka’s Bantam Tier 2 team finished off the weekend with a record of 2-2-2.

They won against Stettler Bantam B team 6-2 Nov. 17 at home, which left players with a positive feeling, said coach Dwayne Rausch. “We’ve got all skill levels there. It’s a good group, a real good attitude.”

He trains the players as if they were in a regular game and scrimmages always simulate what skating against their opponents would be like. Rausch feels these stronger practices give players valuable experience on the ice.

“It is fun to see when it comes together in the hockey game,” he added.

The Ponoka Peewee A hockey team played the Maskwacis Peewee A Chiefs Nov. 17 in Hobbema and defeated the Chiefs with a strong 11-2 points.

With 13:57 left in the first period Jayden Nokohoo scored the first goal, followed 10 seconds later with a score from Aidan Gratton. Then at 5:12 left in the first Noah Hacket scored and just seven seconds later Gratton made a second goal. The Chiefs fought back with a goal with three minutes left in the first. continued on page 29

Communication key for Broncs girls JV volleyball team

By Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye A 3-1 loss in sets for the JV Broncs girls volleyball team was enough to remind them of the importance of communication.

The JV team played the Wetaskiwin Sabres Nov. 14 in their last regular season match and had to contend with their opponents being unwilling to give up many points. Their biggest challenge appeared to be overcoming unforced errors on the serve and communicating while the ball was in play. While this was a challenge during the match, it was a also a learning experience said captain Hailer Boser.

She feels the loss against a strong team gave them something to work for in zones, which were to be

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played Nov. 16. A positive attitude is one of her main areas to focus on. Being the setter, she is quite aware of her other players’ stresses during a game.

“I try to make sure it’s always positive on the court,” said Boser.

Coach Danielle Yaremchuck worked closely with her players during time-outs at the Sabres’ match.

“Talking (and) communication. They need to be more positive on and off the court.”

While this match may not have been their best, the Broncs JV team have performed well in tournaments and she wanted to take that strength with her to the zones challenge. “Honestly we should be able to win,” said the coach.

Placing during the regular season was close for the Broncs; at the time of the Sabres’ match, they were sitting close to the third or fourth place. They were to compete against five other teams in zones.

The match brought other challenges for the team as well as they faced a strong offense from the Sabres.

‘They have good hitters as well,” said captain Boser.

4804-50 St. 403-783-3082 www.truhardware.ca CANADIAN

FIREARM SAFETY COURSE

This is the course you need to get your firearms license.

Saturday, Nov. 30, 8 am Ponoka Legion 3911 Hwy 2A Non-restricted course and exam $120 Restricted Firearms exam available $80 Combined $180

To register call Guy 780-461-7686

Hannah Hahn works to make a pass as a player watches on. The JV Broncs girls volleyball team played the Wetaskiwin Sabres Nov. 13 and lost 3-1.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 29

Midgets defeated in Innisfail continued from page 28 The hat-trick of the game was made by Hackett, who scored one goal in the second period and the third goal at 19:26 in the third period. He made a fourth goal at 9:44 left with an assist from Seth Gratrix.

The Tier 1 Midget Wolves made the trip to their Nov. 17 game at Innisfail and lost with a close score of 5-4. This brings them to second place in the south division standings with 4-4-1. The Innisfail Kinsmen Flyers are undefeated with seven wins. The Barrhead Steelers in the north division are just behind the Flyers with a 7-1-1 record.

The Flyers took the lead with a goal less then one minute into the game and a second goal helped increase the gap five minutes later. The Wolves fought back and scored a goal one minute before the end of the first. Both teams scored one goal each in the second period and the trend seemed to continue into the third period.

The Flyers scored with nine minutes left in the third and a mere five seconds later scored again increasing their lead 5-2. But the Wolves dug in and their determination paid off with a score at 2:49 left. Sixteen seconds before the end of the game Ponoka was able to score their fourth and final goal.

The Lacoka Female Atom Rockets are scheduled to play the Maskwacis Atom Female team Nov. 23 at 1:30 p.m. and the midget girls will play at Winfield Nov. 24 at 3:15 p.m.

Novice team gaining experience Despite a loss of 8-2 against the Lacombe Red Rockets on Nov. 16, Ponoka’s Wedin’s Warriors are enjoying the challenge, said coach Mark Richter. “They’re still having fun.”

Players are still learning the basic skills and rules of the game and despite a strong Lacombe goalie, they were able to claim two points.

Do You Hear What I Hear!!

Christmas Shoppingg Is Great In Ponoka

Taylor Sheppard, Blair Ross and Avery Klimec enjoying the success after their competition in Edson on Oct. 27.

The Ponoka Pool Sharks have attended two meets so far this season, The first one was in Edson, where 85 per cent best times were achieved by the 13 swimmers who attended. Also the Sharks had seven aggregate trophy winners in various age categories. Winners included Taylor Sheppard, Lucas Suarez, Blake Shimp, Lanny Wildcat, Mckenna Christensen, Jaylen Christensen, and Emily Lehr. The Sharks also had great success at an Edmonton meet on Nov 2, where 80 per cent best times were achieved by the 30 swimmers who attended. The next event for the Sharks is their home meet “The Cookie Classic” on Dec.7 and 8.

Grand Prize:

d By

re Sponso

$1500 Shopping Spree

Subsidiary Prizes:

PC C

ONOKA & DISTRICT

HAMBER OF OMMERCE

$200 Gift Certificate from Flowers For You $200 Gift Certificate from Strand Media

Technology Prize:

$100 Technology Prize Package

Contributed photo

Stampeders lose to Airdrie on the road Ponoka’s Junior B hockey team continued to struggle in their search for the first ever win of the season and lost 5-3 to Airdrie in an away game on Friday, Nov. 15 The defensive weaknesses and the goaltending troubles continued to haunt the Ponoka side as they lost their 3-1 lead, which they captured in the first period.

With the Airdire intensifying their

attacks, the hosts took more shots at the visiting Stampeders’ net than the visitors could manage.

Scorers for the Stampeders were Cole Visser, Tye Munro and Jarrit Alexander.

Ponoka boys now play two back-to-back home games, first on Wednesday Nov. 20 against Stettler and against Banff on Saturday Nov. 23.

BRINGING YOU UP TO DATE ONLINE & IN PRINT

WEEKLY WEEK LY www.ponokanews.com

GET YOUR PASSPORT TO CHRISTMAS AT THESE PARTICIPATING MERCHANTS....

Adams Chevrolet Bruce’s Tru Value Busted Ladies Lingerie Central Office Supplies Cilantro & Chive Dairy Queen Dino’s Family Restaurant Direct Travel Don Laing Trailers Flowers For You Fountain Tire Hamilton’s IGA Hammy’s Spirits Home Furnishings Gallery Jiffy Lube Julie’s Travel Legacy Ford Ponoka MacKenzie’s No Frills Pixie Photo Inc. Ponoka Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ponoka Community Golf Club Ponoka Co-op Oils Ponoka Eyecare

Ponoka Health Foods Ponoka License and Registry Ponoka News Ponoka Professional Pharmacy Reddi Mart Rexall Drug Store Sears Shoppers Drug Mart Sisters Country Rustics Sommer Home Hardware Steel Mangolias Strand Media Super 8 Ponoka Tantec Electronics The Brick The Cutting Edge The Source Jones Boys Saddlery The Liquor Store Thirsk Automotive UFA Wagner’s Automotive Your Dollar Store With More

PARTICIPATING MERCHANT SPONSORED PRIZES 46 WINNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED BY PHONE AND NAMES WILL BE PUBLISHED IN THE PONOKA NEWS.

Page 30 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Singing the Doe, a deer: Maria, played by Megan Sweet shows the von Trapp children the importance of singing during a Sound of Music dress rehearsal Nov. 17. The Klaglahachie Fine Arts Society is presenting their rendition of the play Nov. 29, 30 and Dec. 1. As well as on Dec. 6 to 8 and Dec. 13 and 14. Call the United Church for more details at: 403-783-4087. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Outdoor rink almost ready

By Amelia Naismith

The Ponoka Curling Club would like to thank the following companies for their major contributions in improving our club: Classic Granite for installing & donating beautiful granite on both bathroom counters & the bar countertop Ponoka Plumbing & Heating for their donation to the improvements in our bathrooms

13113JB0

Sommer Home Hardware for their discount on painting supplies The Town of Ponoka for the grant dollars for painting of the ice surface walls and the new flooring in the lounge We would also like to thank the volunteers that came to help.

Kick off the season with great offers at Wetaskiwin Motorsports

We invite everyone to come check out our new and improved space this 2013/14 season!

6010 40TH AVENUE | WETASKIWIN, AB T9A 2E8 780.352.5408 | wethonda.ca ©2013 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP and its affiliates.

Winter and the cold weather have arrived, bringing with it the skating season.

On Nov. 15, the ice plant used to flood the Scott Seaman Sports Rink was turned on and the ice making process started Monday.

“It takes a good five days to get enough water down,” said Wes Amendt, director of community services for the town. The plant needs a minimum of -10 C to keep the ice. If temperatures climbed back up to 5 C or 10 C the process would have to be delayed.

However, with highs of only -11 C and lows of -27 C estimated for this week there shouldn’t be many challenges to get the ice in this year.

Last year the rink wasn’t flooded until late December because of the sun and its dangerous potential as it reflected off the boards, causing conditions that would have weakened the ice.

“Even once the ice is in, we’ll have the public watch for signs. If it gets unsafe for use we’ll have to close it down for a period of time,” said Amendt. He also warns the public to wait for signs saying the rink is ready for use after the ice process is complete.

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 31

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CLASSIFIEDS CALL TOLL FREE:

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announcements Obituaries

Obituaries

KREIL Melvin Donald Kreil passed away at Chilliwack, B.C. on October 30, 2013 at the age of 69. He is survived by his loving companion Marilynn Pekrul; two sons - Trevor (Tammy) and their children Ashley, Kyle, Breanna, and Brady; Blaine (Karen) and their children, Brett, Destinee and Dylon; one daughter Tanya Lutz and family; Marilynn’s children Sandra and Robert; brothers Tony (Denise) and Ralph (Dorothy); sisters Ethel Weiland and June (Leonard) Mitzel; sisters-in-law Carolyn Kreil and Esther Kreil and many nieces and nephews. Melvin was predeceased by his brothers, Wallace and Rolly, sister-in-law Cecilia and brothers-in-law Gordon Cole and Wallace Weiland.

James McCue Dec. 28, 1920 - Nov. 8, 2013 Jim was born in Bon Accord, Alberta, the youngest of six children, to parents Amie and Clifford McCue. Jim was predeceased by his parents, one brother Arthur and his four sisters - Dora, Ruth, Winnie and Carol. He leaves to mourn his passing Bodil, his wife for 71 years; daughter Gloria (Lorne) Konelsky; two sons Garry (Darlene) and Donald; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. In early 1940 Jim joined the R.C.A.F. He was first stationed in Vancouver at the recruiting center. In 1943 he transferred to Aircrew section of the R.C.A.F. He was trained in eastern Canada earning his wings† and Pilot Officer stripes as a Bombadier. In early 1945 he arrived at his overseas posting to Bournemouth, England and then to Hereford, England. He arrived home the day the Japanese surrendered. In 1950 we moved from Edmonton to Spirit River where he worked with Tommy Wright in the International Harvester machine business. He was one of the charter members of the Spirit River Kinsmen Club and then K-40. He was also a Past Grand Master of the Masonic Lodge. In 1960 Mr. Wright purchased the Ponoka I.H.C. machine shop and we moved with him to Ponoka. The shop closed in 1967. Twenty business men of Ponoka had built a Fishing Lodge on Great Bear Lake, N.W.T. Jim joined as a partner with this group and for the next 15 years he was the P.R. person and office manager of this business. The Lodge was sold and Jim retired in 1983 but loved working in his yard and garden.

A Funeral Service was held on Friday, November 15, 2013 at 1:30 p.m. at the Ponoka Funeral Home followed by a time of fellowship and Interment of Ashes in the Forest Home Cemetery.

To express condolences to Jim’s family, please visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements Entrusted To PONOKA FUNERAL HOME ~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~

Obituaries

Ruth Pace

Billie Burton Ruggles

On November 10, 2013 Mrs. Ruth Emma Pace of Ponoka passed away at the age of 81 years. She is survived by husband Vern; her children Bruce Semeniuk (Chris), Trudi (Bob Tilley) and Laurie (Jim Thain); grandchildren Dawne (Shaun), Brandee (Dave), Rob (Erin), Colleen and Jennifer; great-grandchildren Darien, Ryan, Dean, Tristen, Jeoelle, Eva, Jakob and Amelie; and Vern’s children Patti (Derrick), Vernessa, Heather (Gary), Randy (Sonee) and Kevin; 15 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; one brother Bill (Adine); one sister Lydia (Leonard). She was predeceased by brothers Rudy and Victor and sisters Olga and Helen. A Funeral Service was held at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ponoka at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, November 15, 2013. Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church.

To express condolences to Ruth’s family, please visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com.

Billie Burton Ruggles was born on December 1st, 1928 in Champion, Alberta and died November 12th, 2013 in Ponoka. He is survived by his children Catherine (Bob) Shatford, Donald (Lori) Ruggles and Debbie (Marty) Rye; as well as eleven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Also surviving Bill are three brothers Archie, Jim (Dallas) and Paul (Margie); three sisters Eva (Nis) Schmidt, Gail (Duane) Grose and Leora (Wally) Rausch; and many nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his parents Burton and Caroline Ruggles, sister Margaret “Peggy” McLaren, brother-in-law Donald McLaren and sister-in-law Felicity “Faye” Ruggles. A Funeral Service will be held at the Ponoka First Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2013. Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to New Tribes Mission (Philippines) or any charity of your choice.

To express condolences to Bill’s family, please visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements Entrusted To PONOKA FUNERAL HOME ~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~

Arrangements Entrusted To PONOKA FUNERAL HOME ~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~

Obituaries Obituaries

Herman Brown Jerry Heck On November 10, 2013 Mr. Jerome “Jerry” Leo Heck of Ponoka passed away at the age of 78 years. Jerry is lovingly survived by his daughters Cheryl (Steve) Bengert, Bev (Danny) Baron and Delores (Bill) Gibbons; son Mike (Sonja) Heck; grandchildren Courtney, Erin, Breanne, Jeremy, Amanda, Brad, Austin and Tanner; and seven great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife Constance and son Allan.

He was predeceased by his wife Constance and son Allan.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Ponoka at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, November 15, 2013 with the Interment Service following at Forest Home Cemetery. Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to St. Augustine Catholic Church Building Fund.

To express condolences to Jerry’s family, please visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements Entrusted To PONOKA FUNERAL HOME ~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~

Herman Percival Brown passed away at Red Deer Hospital on November 14, 2013.Herman was born January 13, 1935 in Deer Lake, Newfoundland. Herman is survived by his wife Amaryllis (nee Gramms), daughters and sons-in-law Bonita and Jere Gimbel; and Carola and Jason Hanasyk, and grandchildren Joel and Kyle Gimbel, and Lola and Bauer Hanasyk. He will forever missed by his family and friends. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, November 23 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ponoka Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Kidney Foundation in Herman’s name.

To express condolences to Herman’s family, please visit www.womboldfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements Entrusted To PONOKA FUNERAL HOME ~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~

CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS

1-877-223-3311

Page 32 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

announcements

Coming Events

Coming Events

52 – 10TH ANNUAL –

In Memoriam

What’s Happening #50 - # 70

DEBBIE HUGHES November 17, 2011

To Those I Love When I am gone, release me, let me go I have so many things to see and do.

You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears Be happy that we had so many years.

I gave you my love.

You can only guess How much you gave to me in happiness.

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

Spaghetti Dinner & Auction Saturday, November 23 at 6:00pm at the Homeglen Hall

FEATURING Richard & Deborah Popovich Tickets only $10 Cash Bar

52

Please call Kelly @ 403-704-4284 for tickets or more information

BIG BROTHERS AND BIG SISTERS

Proceeds of the event support Bluffton Playschool & Homeglen Happy Kids Playgroup

I thank you for the love you have shown But now it’s time I travelled on alone.

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

Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear All my love around you soft and clear.

And then, when you must come this way alone I’ll greet you with a smile, and welcome you home. ~Sadly missed by John, Graham, Katherina & Shane

make a

403-783-3112

ERICKSON The family of the late Vern Erickson would like to express their most heartfelt and sincere thanks to all of our family and friends for the overwhelming support during this most difficult time. Thank you to everyone for the prayers, donations, flowers, food, phone calls and cards. We would like to extend our gratitude to the staff of Northcott and to Dr Halse for their care and patience with Dad that helped make this last portion of his life as comfortable as possible.

A special thanks to Bruce Erickson and Rob Erickson for doing a wonderful job of reading the ‘tributes’ to Dad - a difficult job very well done. We shared laughter and tears and it was just what Dad would have wanted.

We would like to extend our thanks to the members of Legion Branch 66 for their touching service and to the ladies of Legion for the marvelous lunch.

We would also like to express our deep appreciation to the staff of Wombold Funeral Homes for your tolerance and understanding in this most difficult of times and to Bob Ronnie Catering for the delicious supper you provided for the family.

Getting Married?

Let your friends & family know in the Announcements 1.877.223.3311

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SALE Saturday, November 23 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM at the Ponoka Legion on Hwy 2A Your one stop shopping • Home Businesses • Bake Sale PLUS a Silent • Toys Auciton!

• Crafts • Christmas trees To book a table or for more info Call Marlene at 403-783-6560 • Decorations

Meetings

59 SCHULTZ HALL

Wednesday, November 27

difference

Meetings

Ponoka Legion Ladies Auxiliary presents their

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Mentors

Card Of Thanks

52

59

AL-ANON WEEKLY MEETING FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF ALCOHOLICS. Tuesdays 8 p.m.

Neighborhood Place 5115 - 49 Ave., Ponoka For more info 403-783-4557

ALATEEN

Weekly meetings Tuesdays @ 8 p.m.

Neighborhood Place 5115 49 Ave. Ponoka For more info.

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

THURSDAY AA Meetings at 8:30 p.m. in the Catholic Church basement. 52 Street & 52 Ave. Ponoka.

Open meetings first Thursday of the month, Everyone Welcome.

403-783-4347

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

TRY

Classified Advertising SERVING CENTRAL ALBERTA RURAL REGION

CALL 1-877-223-3311

Clerical

720

Supper at 6:00 p.m.

Meeting at 7:00 p.m.

Please RSVP to Chris Orom at 780 372- 2469

by Thursday, November 21.

TOWN OF PONOKA Employment Opportunity

SECRETARY I – OPERATIONS AND PROPERTY SERVICES The Town of Ponoka is currently seeking applications for the position of Secretary I – Operations and Property Services. Reporting to the Director of Operations and Property Services, the Secretary I provides general administrative support to the Electrical, Public Works and Water Works departments and serves as the first point of contact for individuals requiring assistance from the Operations and Property Services division.

Duties include: • using word processing and other computer software • preparation of correspondence and reports as directed • data entry as identified • editing and proofreading materials • searching files and other documents to locate pertinent data • scheduling appointments • serve as the receptionist and first contact for individuals entering or placing calls to the Town Shop.

The successful applicant will possess the following skills and abilities: • excellent written and verbal communication skills • ability to follow written and/or oral instructions • effectively organize work and establish priorities • work effectively with other staff and/or independently as the situation dictates • proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite of programs and ability to learn and work within the Town’s software program.

Applicants are asked to submit resumes to: Town of Ponoka ATTENTION: Dave McPhee, Director, Operations and Property Services 5102 – 48 Avenue, PONOKA, AB T4J 1P7 Fax: (403)783-6745; Phone: (403)783-0528 email: dave.mcfee@ponoka.org This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.

The Town of Ponoka thanks all applicants in advance, however, only those being considered will be contacted.

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PONOKA NEWS Page 33

Oilfield

Employment #700 - #920 Caregivers/Aides................710 Clerical ..............................720 Computer Personnel ..........730 Dental ................................740 Estheticians........................750 Hair Stylists ........................760 Janitorial ............................770 Legal ..................................780 Medical ..............................790 Oilfield ................................800 Professionals......................810 Restaurant/Hotel ................820 Sales & Distributors ..........830 Teachers/Tutors..................840 Trades ................................850 Truckers/Drivers ................860 Business Opportunities......870 Miscellaneous ....................880 Volunteers Wanted ............890 Positions Wanted ..............895 Employment Training ........900 Career Planning ................920

Farm Work

755

WORK AND LIVE on a farm in Europe, Britain, Japan, Australia, or New Zealand! Dairy, crop, beef, sheep & more available. AgriVenture invites applicants 18-30 for 4-12 month 2014 programs. www.agriventure.com; 1-888-598-4415 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.

Janitorial

800

WINCH TRACTOR OPERATORS. Must have experience operating a winch.

To apply fax, email or drop off resume at the office.

Phone 780-842-6444.

Fax 780-842-6581. Email: rigmove@telus.net. Mail: H&E Oilfield Services Ltd., 2202 - 1 Ave., Wainwright, AB, T9W 1L7. For more employment information see our webpage: www.heoil.com

Oilfield

800

800

Oilfield

800

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

Start your career!

See Help Wanted

Clerical

Oilfield

720 Do you have a passion to make a difference?

Do you want to enrich animal and human lives? Is a company that inspires its employees to win an attractive place to work?

Is being an owner appealing to you?

Production Adminstrator/ Customer Service, Ponoka, AB Join a team offering a culture of high engagement, empowerment, career progression and a competitive total compensation package.

9 Duties include: Assist customers in person or on the phone, data entry, inventory, supporting Plant Manager, and general office duties.

9 Must have: Grade 12 or equivalent, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, ability to multi-task, work in a fast-paced environment, excellent computer skills, detail oriented.

To apply email your resume and covering letter to work@ hiprofeeds.com. We appreciate all applications; however, only those candidates who are qualified and chosen for an interview will be contacted.

770

$2500 Bonus Every 100 days

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS Night Foremen, Day & Night Operators Must have H2S, First Aid, valid driver’s license.

Pre-employment Drug screening Competitive Wages.

Benefit Package Please submit resume with references to: apply@wespro.ca or by fax to (403) 783-8004 Only individuals selected for interviews will be contacted

F/T PLANT / FIELD OPERATOR

Sylvan, Rocky Mtn. House & Ponoka areas. Must have a minimum of 2 years exp in artificial lifts, gas/ liquid separation, PJ operation, field compression refridge systems, dehydrating and sweet processing, maintenance on pumps, heaters, control valves etc.

Contract operators need not apply.

E-mail resume’s to ken.webster@altagas.ca or fax 403-347-0855

Medical

Alstar Oilfield is looking for highly motivated individuals to join our growing Team in the following positions:

Automotive Mechanic Automotive Mechanic Apprentice

Professionals

810

AG EQUIPMENT

JOURNALISTS, Graphic Artists, Marketing and more. Alberta’s weekly newspapers are looking for people like you.

Post your resume online.

Free. Visit: www.awna.com/ resumes_add.php.

Reached a Milestone?

In these positions you will have the opportunity to work on the Alstar fleet which includes: • 80 plus Pick Up Trucks • Bobcats/ zoombooms • Excavators • Trailers You will split your time between a service truck and the shop.

Alstar has a comprehensive Benefits Program, Employer Matching RRSP Program and has flexible work hours (40 hours / week). Wages negotiable based on experience.

Preference will be given to applicants with experience working on Dodge Diesel engines and warranty service management.

Rimbey Implements Ltd.

Al York

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

Rimbey, AB

Fax: (403) 843-3430

ANIMAL SERVICES

Please apply on line on our Career Section at www.alstaroilfield.com “Committed to enriching the lives of our workforce, while Providing quality energy construction solutions”

790 This space could be yours for $

30

PER WEEK

Call 403-783-3311

Part-Time Cleaning Person St. Augustine School, Ponoka, AB St. Thomas Aquinas RCSRD No. 38 is seeking applicants for a part-time (3:30 pm to 7:30 pm, Monday to Friday, flexible start and end time) cleaning person based at St. Augustine School in Ponoka, Alberta. The position will begin as soon as possible.

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

A & J AUTOMOTIVE A & J AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

Previous janitorial experience and the ability to work as part of a team are considered assets. Salary will be determined by the Terms of Employment. The Division also offers a comprehensive benefit package.

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

Successful applicants must be prepared to supply a recent Criminal Record Check, (inclusive of vulnerable sector) and recent Alberta Children’s Services Intervention Record Check. Individuals who are interest should submit a detailed resume in confidence showing related training, experience, and references to:

VET SERVICES

Email: careers@starcatholic.ab.ca Or for more information contact Charlie Bouchard, Assistant Superintendent.

Phone: (780) 986-2500 Fax: (780) 986-8620

VERBRUGGEN Veterinary Services

Please quote reference #STAUGCP11/12 This competition will remain open until 12:00 pm on November 27, 2013 The Successful candidate’s offer of employment will be conditional upon receipt of a satisfactory Criminal Record and Child Welfare Check. Only those applicants short listed for an interview will be contacted.

November 22, 2013

• Beef preg-checking with ultrasound • Mobile service for all large animals • Medication & Vaccines • 24/7 on call

403-704-6650

Page 34 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

BOBCAT SERVICES

Oilfield

Sur-B Enterprises Ltd.

Call 403-783-2764 403-588-0599 CallJim JimAshbough Ashbough 783-2764ororCell: Cell: 588-0599 Jack Surbey 403-783-5283 Cell: 403-588-0597 Jack Surbey 783-5283orCell: 588-0597

OVERHEAD DOORS

Professionals

PROJECT SUMMARY The Maskwacis Youth Initiative (MYI) Project is seeking an Executive Director for Cure Violence to manage the MYI Project.

The Maskwacis Youth Initiative (MYI) is a five year project funded and managed in partnership with the Maskwacis Chiefs, a project Steering committee, and Public Safety Canada (via the National Crime Prevention Centre -NCPC).

The project’s overall goal is to reduce violence within the Maskwacis community, by following the ‘Chicago CeaseFire’ model (also known as ‘Cure Violence’) –developed by Dr. Gary Slutkin: http://cureviolence.org/, as well as by incorporating into all aspects of the project, Dr. Martin Brokenleg’s four principles as expressed in his ‘Circle of Courage’ model: http:// www.reclaiming.com/content/about-circle-of-courage.

Third; the project aims to mobilize the community through public education campaigns, community events, engagement of law enforcement and faith leaders (elders, church, etc.), and community responses to every shooting, in order to promote community safety and nonviolence—Community Mobilization The purpose of the MYI project is to strengthen the Maskwacis Community and prevent future conflicts using a cutting edge gun violence prevention model that aims to reduce and prevent shootings and promote public safety.

QUALIFICATIONS

PER WEEK

Call 403-783-3311 BOTTLE DEPOT

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

Closed Sundays & Holidays We Now Recycle Milk Cartons for Deposit

3, 5520 Hwy 2A (Across from Husky)

403-783-6875 SALES & SERVICE

Education • A degree from a recognized university specialized in the: human service field such as social work, sociology, criminology, business management, psychology. Or an acceptable combination of education and experience.

Knowledge • Knowledge of gang issues • Knowledge / understanding of First Nation culture • Strong knowledge of basic computer software Experience • Extensive experience in the management of complex community-based projects • Managing public funding including establishing financial process, producing reports and meeting reporting requirements • Managing not-for-profit organization including working with a Steering Committee, and diverse stakeholders • Working with / in First Nation communities • Working with high risk youth and / or formerly incarcerated individuals Skills & Assets • Communication / negotiation / mediation (written and verbal) • Familiar with the strategic planning process • Public speaking • Speak Cree language • Experience working with the Community of Maskwacis Other • This position will require doing overtime on short notice, • Full-time on employee contract. Term position maybe up to five years.

• Must have own transportation with valid Alberta driver’s license.

• No pending criminal cases or prior convictions • Submit Criminal Record Intervention Module check (CRIM) • Submit Child Youth Intervention Module check (CYIM) • Submit three reference letters • Submit copy of education documentation OPEN COMPETITION: Applicants can apply by emailing your resume and cover letter in ‘Word’ to bblouis@xplornet.com or fax to 1-780-585-0160. Please include the job title, “MYI-- Executive Director in the subject line. Inquiries maybe directed to Barbara B. Louis, Community Support Programmer--Samson Cree Nation Admin. at 780-312-3452. The deadline for applications has been extended to November 27th, 2013 @4:00 p.m.

Based on revised qualifications for the position.

Tues - Fri: 8:30 am-5:30 pm Saturday: 9 am-3 pm

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

Reaching 6000 households weekly for just

30

$

PER WEEK

This space could be yours!

403-783-3311

MCDONALD’S RESTAURANTS

PONOKA REQUIRES ADMINISTRATOR IMMEDIATELY Facility - 68 suite full service Independent & Designated Supportive Living. Operated by Connecting Care A leader in seniors’ supportive housing management in Alberta.

We are looking for a caring professional who is a leader and wants to work in Supportive Housing.

Responsible for the overall management, HR, marketing and administration of the facility.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Management experience, time management and problem solving skills, experience in community, seniors, hospitality and demonstrated record of effective communication with seniors and staff.

Nursing background an asset. Starting wage: To be negotiated based on experience.

Submit resumes: Email: georg.rath@ connectingcare.ca Only successful applicants will be notified.

Celebrate your life with a Classified ANNOUNCEMENT

Restaurant/ Hotel

820

RAMADA INN & SUITES REQUIRES ROOM ATTENDANTS. Exp. preferred.

Only serious inquiries apply.

Rate $13.50/hr.

Drop off resume at: 6853 - 66 St. Red Deer or fax 403-342-4433

CLASSIFIED Want Ads do more things for more people than any other form of advertising. Phone 1-877223-3311

Sales & Distributors

of Ponoka, Lacombe, Stettler and Red Deer (Gasoline Alley East and West) are now hiring FULL TIME AND PART TIME Food Counter Attendants.

Basic duties include making food and serving customers.

All stores are 24 hours, except Stettler, which has extended late night hours and applicants must be willing to work flexible shifts, including evening, weekends and nights shifts.

Students, stay home moms, retired persons, we offer part time flexibility to fit your lifestyle, as well as scholarship programs for students. Wages range from $10.50 to 11.00 per hour and we will train.

Benefits are included and we offer opportunities for advancement. Apply in person at the store, on line at cbay22.telus.net or mail resume to 4419 Hwy 2A, Ponoka, AB, T4J 1J8

Trades

850

JOURNEYMAN AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE TECHNICIAN(S) in Hanna Alberta.

Hanna Chrysler Ltd. offers competitive wages from $32/hour, negotiable depending on experience.

Bright, modern shop.

Full-time permanent with benefits. Friendly town just 2 hours from major urban centres. More info at: hannachrylser.ca.

Fax 403-854-2845; Email: chrysler@telusplanet.net.

PETROFIELD Industries, the Leader in manufacturing Hydrovac trucks, is accepting resumes for the following positions: * General Labourers * Industrial Painters * Sandblasters * Material Handler * Automotive Electrical Technician * Journeyman Welder / Apprentice * 2nd Yr Welder with Central Alberta’s Largest Aluminum experience Car Lot in Classifieds * Production Manager

Trades

850

HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE CLASS 1 OR 3 OPERATORS. Full-time and part-time positions available.

Openings in several Alberta areas. Fax resume to Carillion Canada 780-449-0574 or email: mcroft@carillionalberta.ca.

Positions to start Oct. 15, 2103. Please state what position and location you are interested in.

HVAC Service Person required. SHEET Metal Installer required with residential and retro-fit experience.

Attractive wages and benefits. Great hours. e-mail: brad@ comfortecheating.com or Fax resume to: 403-309-8302 Looking for a new pet?

Check out Classifieds to find the purrfect pet.

Visit our website at: www.tornadotrucks.com for more details. Our Company has an enthusiastic fast paced working environment, with advancement possibilities for the motivated person, and offers an excellent benefit package. fax 403-742-5544 e-mail: hr@petrofield.com

SHUNDA CONSTRUCTION Requires Full Time

Carpenters Carpenters Helpers For local work.

Competitive Wages & Benefits.

Fax resumes & ref’s to: 403-343-1248 or email to: admin@shunda.ca

EASY!

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

830 Employment Opportunity

Truckers/ Drivers

Sales Consultant

860

for Legacy Ford Ponoka

Employment Opportunity Motorcycles & ATV’s

820

operating as

JOB POSTING

Second; the project will have a strong outreach component where workers will carry a caseload of participants, and will mentor, support, and assist them to connect with community services that address their needs—Outreach.

30

Restaurant/ Hotel

CAMERON BAY HOLDINGS INC.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Operating out of a public building on the Samson Indian Reserve, the Maskwacis Youth Initiative Project has three missions: First; the project aims to connect with gang-involved and high-risk youth, build a trust-based relationship with them, and intervene in ongoing conflicts to prevent imminent violence and to change the norms around the need to use violence—Conflict Mediation.

This space could be yours for $

810

MASKWACIS YOUTH INITIATIVE (M.Y.I.)

BOBCAT SERVICE • Snow Removal • Driveways & Parking Lots • Post-Hole Augering - 6, 9, 12, 15 • Corral Cleaning • Grading & Construction

800

Spare Bus Drivers Needed - All Areas Qualifications: • Class 1 or 2 license (will train for Class 2) • Criminal Records Check • Current Drivers Abstract Interested candidates are invited to submit applications to: Mr. Joe Henderson, Secretary Treasurer Wolf Creek Public Schools Phone: 403-783-5441 ext 1243 | Fax: 403-783-3483 Email: transportation@wolfcreek.ab.ca Applications are available at: Wolf Creek Public Schools Transportation Office, Hwy 2A, Ponoka, Alberta or online at: http://www.wolfcreek.ab.ca/view.php?action=documents&id=69

Are you ready to be a part of a unique and growing dealership?

We are looking for a full time Sales Consultant that is/has: - Performance driven and self-motivated - Outgoing and has worked directly with the public - Excellent customer service skills - Ability to succeed in a team based environment - Organized and professional - A valid driver’s license is required We offer an excellent work environment, well above average wages with a competitive bene¿ts package.

Please submit resume attention: Pat Boardman or Ross North Either in person or Fax: 403-783-5504 email: pat@legacyfordponoka.ca

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Professionals

810

PONOKA NEWS Page 35

Truckers/ Drivers

860

DELIVERY CAREER OPPORTUNITY Enrichment Counsellor Term Position

Responsibilities • Counsel and support parents and youth • Assess clients skills, strengths and needs • Connect clients to community resources • Develop and facilitate psycho-educational groups Qualifications • Post-secondary education in social work, child and youth care, counselling or equivalent and two years relevant experience • Criminal Record Check, Child Welfare Information Check • Access to personal vehicle For more information visit www.wetaskiwinyouth.ca and view the “Join Our Team” section.

Resumes can be submitted to Stacie Chalmers, Enrichment Program Director, at 5109-51 Street Wetaskiwin or emailed to stacie@wetaskiwinyouth.ca | phone (780) 352.4643 ex 30

Sales & Distributors

830

DRIVER

Trades

850

TJ LOGGING of Whitecourt, Alberta is now taking resumes for 2013 - 2014 logging season.

Experienced buncher/ skidder/limber/process operators required.

Please fax resume to 780-778-2428.

Trades

850

DENTISTRY

RIMBEYDENTALCARE

WATER WELL DRILLING COMPANY IN BENTLEY REQ’S EXPERIENCED

DR. STEVE CALDER BS C DDS

WATER WELL DRILLERS HELPER

with class 3, air. All safety tickets required.

Meal and Accommodation provided when out of town.

Fax resume with drivers JOB HUNTING? Read the abstract: 403-748-3015 Classifieds. 1-877-223-3311.

Misc.

Help

Family Friendly Dentistry Box 1100 4905 50 St. Rimbey, AB T0C 2J0

880

DENTAL CARE

GAS BAR MANAGER Must have own vehicle Please reply in person with resume to

Pizza D’Oro #7 5103 - 48 Ave. Misc.

Help

880

Individual required to assist physically challenged adult female in Wetaskiwin.

Must be able to commit to 6 hrs a week, have own transportation and be physically able to help carry in groceries and take out garbage.

Light house duties are required.

Ph. (403) 843-2173 Fax: (403) 843-2607

BIRCHLAND DENTAL CLINIC

40 HOUR WEEK POSITION

PRACTICE OF DENTISTRY

DUTIES INCLUDE: - staffing - ordering stock - inventory control

4037835225 • 4037835235 5118 - 51 Ave., Ponoka, AB T4J 1R5

DR. HUGH PORTER • DR. RICK BARR DR. JEFF BARR • DR. GREG EDWARDS

Must be familiar with computer point of sale system and have strong skills in communication, organization, time mgmt., client service, decision making, problem solving.

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

Above average pay with health benefits and profit sharing.

EYE CARE

Please send resume to barry@bobtailventures.com or for information call Barry at 403-896-2405

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

-

Send resume to Box 1540, Rimbey TOC 2JO or email to lifeacre@telus.net

•

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

Adams Chevrolet is Expanding and Looking to Add to Our Team

Looking for out-going professional, self-motivated individuals to join our SALES TEAM! We offer leading edge, flexible pay plans as well as group benefits, and a savings plan program.

If you are interested in joining our dynamic dealership family, please send resume to hr@adamsgm.com or stop by in person and ask for Steve Wolbeck

Truckers/ Drivers

860 Arnett & Burgess is now accepting applications for the following:

CLASS 1 TRUCK DRIVER Must have experience moving heavy equipment that is related to pipeline construction.

Clean abstract.

Competitive wage.

Benefits available.

Please fax resumes to 780-372-4238 Or email to: jobs@abpipeliners.com

Classifieds Your place to SELL Your place to BUY

EXPRESS LUBE MANAGER Required Immediately at Adams Chevrolet

The successful candidate must be able to excel in a fast paced environment, have superior customer satisfaction skills, and be able to lead and motivate a team of technicians.

Previous Automotive experience is a must.

We provide an aggressive pay plan with bonuses, as well as an excellent benefits plan. If you have a positive attitude and an excellent work ethic we want to hear from you.

TIRE REPAIR PERSON

OFFICE HOURS: Monday - Friday

Required for maintenance and repair of truck and trailer fleet. Experience is an asset, but will train right candidate. Excellent wages and company benefits.

CONCRETE SERVICES

Calnash Trucking Ltd also has immediate openings for

SWAMPERS Please submit applications to: Calnash Trucking 6526 44 Avenue Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1J8 Fax: 403-783-3011 E-mail: hr@calnashtrucking.com (Re: Tire Person or Swamper) Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

No Phone calls please.

Send resumes to: phodgins@adamsgm.com

WETASKIWIN READY MIX Now Hiring • CONCRETE MIXER DRIVERS Minimum Class 3 with air.

• BATCH/DISPATCH PERSONNEL • LOADER OPERATOR / YARD PERSON We offer: Above average earnings,1/4ly incentive bonuses, benefits & year round employment

Please apply in person with current driver abstract & resume 5410 - 50 Street, Wetaskiwin or email dmarkevich@wetaskiwinrm.com

8AM - 12:30PM • 1PM - 5PM

WETASKIWIN READY MIX • Residential • Commercial • Agricultural OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY Ph: 587-786-3142 780-352-4301 Email: dmarkevich@wetaskiwinrm.com

HEATING

DANDY PERMANENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Electrical Enclosure & Power Division

• EXPERIENCED EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT • FINISHER • TURRET OPERATOR • PANEL SHOP ELECTRICIAN

Full Benefit Package & Production Bonuses. Safe, Warm, Modern Working Environment.

Fax or E-mail your resume in confidence to: A.C. Dandy Products Ltd. Fax: 780-352-2249

Email: acdandy@acdandy.com

“Committed to your comfort”

Robin Esau

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

robin@KlesAir.com www.KlesMechanical.com

Advertise your business in the Business Directory!

Page 36 PONOKA NEWS

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Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Misc.

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880

880

Misc.

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880

+

A Star Makes Your Ad A Winner!

12345

CALL:

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

+

A Star Makes Misc.

Help

880

CAREERS WITH A FUTURE Wetaskiwin Co-op was established in 1917 and has been a major retail organization in Central Alberta since that time and today is recruiting for:

FEED MILL EQUIPMENT OPERATOR The Wetaskiwin Co-op Feed Department is currently recruiting for a Feed mill Equipment Operator. The successful candidate will be part of a very exciting opportunity to develop and grow in a rewarding career.

Applicants must have a strong commitment to efficiency and excellence.

Candidates must have a positive attitude, the ability to learn new tasks, and a proven work history.

Wetaskiwin Co-op offers a competitive salary, benefits and pension plan package, ongoing personal and professional development opportunities, a stable and supportive working environment and the opportunity to work with one of Central Alberta’s most successful organizations.

Please submit a detailed resume to:

Al Johnston, Production Manager WETASKIWIN CO-OP ASSOCIATION LTD. 4707-40th Avenue, Wetaskiwin Alberta, T9A 3K7, Fax: 780 – 352 – 6160 Email: ajohnston@wetaskiwincoop.com Deadline for applications Saturday, December 7th, 2013 We thank all applicants for their interest, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

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

The Opportunity Battle River Insurance Ltd / The Co-operators, in Ponoka is looking for an Associate Financial Advisor.

As an Associate Financial Advisor, you will play a key role in supporting and developing agency operations through outbound prospecting, client contact and sales activities. The Associate Financial Advisor will identify prospects in personal, business, non-pro¿t and agricultural markets, determine needs, and act as a trusted insurance and ¿nancial advisor in making informed product recommendations.

Your Quali¿cations • Life License is required • General Insurance License is required • A minimum of two (2) years sales experience or related business or marketing experience is preferred • Knowledge of insurance products and strong underwriting skills is an asset • Strong skills in communication (verbal and written), organization, time management, client service, decision making, problem solving • Candidate must be comfortable in a technology dependent environment including pro¿ciency with Microsoft Of¿ce • Valid driver’s license is required NOTE: If you are not currently quali¿ed, and you are the right person for the job, we will provide the training you need to succeed

The Reward • A full time position with one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada • Opportunity for career development including education opportunities, continuous training and career planning • Commitment to staff wellness including a comprehensive employee assistance program • A generous compensation package including a competitive salary and bene¿ts program, including 3 weeks of vacation in your ¿rst full year of employment • Opportunity to work for a company that is dedicated to giving back to your community through volunteering and an emphasis on environmental and sustainable business practices If you are interested in a career with The Co-operators, please drop off a Cover Letter and Resume at our of¿ce in Ponoka.

Public Member | Red Deer College Board of Governors Honourable Thomas Lukaszuk, Deputy Premier and Minister of Enterprise and Advanced Education, is seeking applications from individuals interested in serving as a public member on the Red Deer College Board of Governors.

A public member shares with the Chair and other members of the Board the responsibilities of: governing the college; formulating policies enabling the Board to make responsible decisions on fiscal and academic matters; establishing the purpose and vision of Red Deer College; and has a commitment to the academic, financial and social well-being of the college and to issues affecting education, adult learning and life-long learning.

To be eligible, you should have senior leadership experience, an understanding of financial matters, have demonstrated community volunteer involvement and experience with Board governance. Preference will be given to applicants who have demonstrated interest in postsecondary education; Red Deer College and/or the training of adults; and/or have demonstrated understanding of the Policy Governance Model®. Preference will also be given to those who reside in Red Deer and surrounding communities in Central Alberta; Calgary and/or Edmonton.

13113RR0 Appointment: A public member is appointed for a term of up to three years and may be reappointed for one further term of three years. There is no salary available with this position.

This posting may be used to fill both existing and future vacancies.

If you are interested in this unique opportunity, please forward a resume including a brief biography and a completed application profile. You can access the application profile by selecting the link below. Alberta Enterprise and Advanced Education is collecting this personal information under the authority of section 33(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Alberta) to determine your qualifications and suitability for the position noted above and for future vacancies. If you are the successful applicant, the information provided in your biography may be used in media releases. The use and disclosure of your personal information is managed in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Alberta). If you have any questions about the collection, use or disclosure of this information, please contact Human Resources, Alberta Enterprise and Advanced Education, 500, Phipps-McKinnon Building, 10020 101A Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 3G2 Phone: (780) 427-2210; Fax (780) 427-3316.

Apply Online: www.jobs.alberta.ca | Application Deadline: November 29, 2013

Want to learn more or have questions about this opportunity, please contact Greg Braat, Financial Advisor / Owner.

About The Co-operators The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian-owned co-operative. Through its group of companies it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is ranked #3 among the 50 Best Corporate Citizens in Canada by Corporate Knights, and listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada. For more information visit http://www.cooperators.ca.

Bay #3, 5103-48 Avenue, Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1J3 Phone: 403-783-3987 • My “24/7” Number: 403-304-2829 greg_braat@cooperators.ca

For information about Red Deer College | www.rdc.ab.ca

THIS?

Don’t waste time sifting through garbage online.

Find what you need from a trusted source.

OR THIS?

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Truckers/ Drivers

860

in Ponoka County is looking for EXPERIENCED HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS COLLECTION TRUCK DRIVERS We offer full-time year round employment, competitive wages and employee benefits.

If interested, please contact: Michael Haworth Tel: 780-455-9350 ext. 2 Cell: 780-499-2029 Fax: 780-452-5666 Email: mhaworth@cuttingedgerubber.com Classifieds...costs so little Saves you so much!

Misc.

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PONOKA NEWS Page 37

Business Opportunities

870

GET FREE VENDING MACHINES. Can earn $100,000.00 + per year. All cash-retire in just 3 years. Protected territories. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629.

Website: www.tcvend.com HOME BASED EMBROIDERY BUSINESS for less than $10,000.

Get started in the promotional products industry. Work from home on your schedule. Call Nicolle at 1-866-890-9488.

TOO MUCH STUFF? Let Classifieds help you sell it.

Misc.

Help

880

Academic Express ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING

WINTER START

Misc.

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880

DAIRY equipment supplier looking for GENERAL LABORERS & EQUIPMENT INSTALLERS Competitive wages and benefits package. E-mail resume: info@prolineinc.ca

GED PREPARATION Jan. 14 or Feb. 10 STARTS

HOW can you make your phone ring and make some quick cash?

Place your ad here . . .

Phone 1-877-223-3311

880

LUBE RACK TECHNICIAN

req’d for busy dealership.

Service & Automotive experience an asset, but will train a motivated, responsible individual.

Full time position with benefits and good working conditions.

Drop off resume Attn: Service Manager or email: bert.rumsey@telus.net

Calnash Trucking has an immediate opening for the following position:

DISPATCHER

Responsibilities include coordinating equipment and personnel for rig moves and service work. Computer skills and knowledge of the trucking industry, drilling rigs and oilfield equipment, transportation rules and regulations would be an asset. Will train right candidate.

COMPETITIVE WAGES & BENEFIT PACKAGE INCLUDED

Submit resume to: Calnash Trucking Ltd. 6526 - 44 Avenue, Ponoka, AB T4J 1J8 Fax: 403.783.3011 Email: hr@calnashtrucking.com

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please

Canada’s Leader in the Design, Manufacturing & Installation of Screw Piles

ALMITA IS GROWING – GROW WITH US! Altima now has long term financially rewarding career opportunities available for you! If you are you looking for a challenging and rewarding career opportunity to make your mark with a modern and innovative company, Almita Piling is hiring in multiple departments.

Installation Entry Level Swampers Experienced Loader Operators Experienced Excavator Operators Accounting Project Management Manufacturing For full job details, please see our website www.almita.com/careers. To apply, please send a current resume to resumes@almita.com or call 403-704-2640 for more info.

Employment Training

a div. of Kokotilo Holdings Inc.

Dallas Ruggles

403-783-5877 403-704-0706

1260

1290

REQUIRED Production Welder Painter Shop Laborer Polisher Full or Part Time Crestomere area BANDIT INDUSTRIES 403-783-4284 THE TOWN OF SYLVAN LAKE, ALBERTA requires a full time permanent Equipment Operator 2 to operate Grader, Backhoe, Skid Steer, etc. We offer a great work environment along with competitive wage and benefit package. Please send your resume to dscott@sylvanlake.ca.

Employment Training

900

MASSAGE CAREER. Train full-time or part-time at our highly regarded, progressive school.

Small classes, individual attention, confident graduates!

1-877-646-1018; www. albertainstituteofmassage.com

Our Hostess’ Gifts and Information are the Key to Your New Community.

Over 30 years experience with Quick Books, A/RA/P-GST- Payroll-WCBBank Deposits T4’s & T4 Summary & much more

CRIMINAL RECORD? ORKIN CANADA is looking Think: Canadian pardon. for enthusiastic individuals U.S. travel waiver. to start a new career. This (24 hour record check). individual must be well Divorce? Simple. Fast. organized with excellent Inexpensive. Debt recovery? customer service skills.

Alberta collection to Position includes generous $25,000. Calgary salary, performance 403-228-1300 bonuses, commission or 1-800-347-2540; package, company vehicle, www.accesslegalresearch.com benefits and opportunity for advancement.

Interested applicants can Misc. send resumes to Services hr@orkincanada.com

Ironman Scrap Metal Recovery picking up scrap again! Farm machinery, vehicles & industrial. Serving Central AB. 403-318-4346

Misc.

Services

1290

FIREFIGHTING & POLICING

MÉTIS EMERGENCY SERVICES PREPARATION 1-888-48-MÉTIS

Commercial - Residential Installations - Repair

3912 - 66 St, Ponoka www.wcmltd.ca

403.783.3501 wcmltd@telus.net

Reaching 6000 households weekly

For just

$30 per week this space could be yours!

403-783-3311 Heather Goodwin 403-704-3647 heathermccg@shaw.ca ALBERTA’S FASTEST GROWING BUSINESS DIRECTORY. This is your last chance for a free listing. Visit www.albertadirectory.com.

NEED TO ADVERTISE? Province wide classifieds.

Reach over 1 million readers weekly.

Only $269. + GST (based on 25 words or less).

Call this newspaper NOW for details or call 1-800-282-6903 ext. 228.

Misc.

Services

1290

Used appliances available Six month warranty

Berni's Refrigeration

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST

$

30

PER WEEK.

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.

This space could be yours for $

30

PER WEEK

Call 403-783-3311 VETERINARY SERVICES

and Appliance Service

1290

403-783-4880 Misc.

Services

1290

Misc.

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1290

Squeezthee MOST out of your advertising dollars

Funded in part by the Government of Canada.

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We deliver and install your purchases.

HOW can you make your phone ring and make some quick cash?

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Phone 1-877-223-3311

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Services

900

1050

DCR BOOKKEEPING SERVICE

Legal Services

1290

JUST MOVED?

Business Services #1000 - #1430

Bookkeeping

Gov’t of Alberta Funding may be available.

403-340-1930 www.academicexpress.ca

Misc.

Services

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

Southwest Industrial Park 4102-64 St., Ponoka 403-783-5200 8 a.m. - 5 p.m Mon. to Sat. • Open late Thursday 24-hour Emergency Call Dr. Bill Frischke • Dr. Kelly Loree • Dr. Leighton Coma Dr. Trevor Hook • Dr. Patricia Kelly

Reaching 6000 households weekly

For just

$30 per week this space could be yours!

403-783-3311

Page 38 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

PLUMBING 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

PLUMBING

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

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

JESSE ZINTER Office - 403-783-5489

This space could be yours for $

30

PER WEEK

Call 403-783-3311 PORTABLE TOILET RENTALS

LittleJONS’

Misc.

Services

1290

DISCONNECTED PHONE? Phone Factory Home Phone Service. No one refused! Low monthly rate!

Calling features and unlimited long distance available. Call Phone Factory today!

1-877-336-2274; www.phonefactory.ca.

Personal Services

1315

Pet Services

1318

CLINKERS KENNELS * Quality Boarding for your dogs & cats *Proof of vaccinations and advance bookings required HOURS: Mon - Thurs 9 am - 12 Noon; 4 pm - 6 pm; Fri. 9 am - 12 Noon; 4 pm - 7 pm; Sat. 9 a.m. - 12 noon; Sun. 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. & 4 - 7 p.m.

403-783-6272 Unplanned www.clinkerskennels.ca pregnancy may be difďŹ cult to face.

Rental We care. For Misc conďŹ dential help call 403-343-1611 (24 hrs.)

Need RV or Self

1350

DATING SERVICE. Long-term/short-term relationships. Free to try!

1-877-297-9883.

Live intimate conversation, Call #7878 or 1-888-534-6984. Live adult 1on1 Call 1-866-311-9640 or #5015.

Meet local single ladies.

1-877-804-5381. (18+).

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by Luna.com. Call and get a free reading by phone.

Love money job family, restores broken relationships, solves all problems permanently.

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TRUE PSYCHICS! For Answers call now 24/7 Toll Free 1-877-342-3036; Mobile: # 4486; www.truepsychics.ca.

Welding

1410

Storage?

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

Also RV storage.

Secure compound.

Call Keith at

First Call Towing

783-3636

Buy & Sell #1500 - #1990

Welding

1410

www.littlejons.ca

30

$

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

MAIN: (403) 783-7591

PER WEEK

FAX: (403) 783-8178

This space could be yours!

403-783-3311

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

Well Drilling

1400

Reaching 6000 households weekly

For just

$30 per week this space could be yours!

403-783-3311

NEXT ANTIQUE SALE SUN. DEC. 1 @ 6 PM. WE BUY FOR CASH. 403-304-4791 Check website for full listing www.bigstrapperauctions.net

WARD’S AUCTIONS Antiques/Estate Auction, Dec. 1st and 2nd 11802-145 St Edmonton; 780-451-4549 Taking Consignments now for Feb 8th Firearms and Related Auction, Online Bidding and Pictures at www.wardsauctions.com.

WELDING & FABRICATION SHOP DISPERSAL Lacombe Welding Ltd. 4640 - 45 St. Lacombe, Alberta Tuesday, November 26 @ 10 a.m.

Selling Welding Truck, Forklift, Payloaders, Hi-Way Trailer, 2007 Haas TM-2 CNC Vertical Milling Machine, Shop Equipment, Welders & Plasma, Steel & Pipe, Racking & Welding tables, small tools & misc.See www.montgomeryauctions.com or 1-800-371-6963.

1550

LOOKING FOR A SHOP? Post Frame Buildings.

AFAB Industries has experience, expertise, reliability and great construction practices.

For a free quote, contact Ryan Smith 403-818-0797 or email: ryan.afab@gmail.com.

METAL ROOFING & SIDING. Very competitive prices!

Largest colour selection in Western Canada.

Available at over 25 Alberta Distribution Locations.

40 Year Warranty.

Call 1-888-263-8254.

Serving Central Today!

Alberta Book On-Line

Reaching 6000 households weekly for just

1530

BIG STRAPPER AUCTIONS SALES EVERY WED. @ 6 pm.

Moose Hall 2 miles south of Ponoka on 2A

Building Supplies

Hand Wash Stations Handicap Units Trailer Units New Solar Powered Units with Running Water

403.783.8322

Auctions

Well Drilling

1400

STEEL BUILDING - The great super sale!

20x20 $4,070.

25x26 $4,879.

30x32 $6,695.

32x40 $8,374.

35x38 $9,540.

40x50 $12,900.

One end wall included.

Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422; www.pioneersteel.ca STEEL BUILDINGS/ METAL BUILDINGS 60% off!

20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100, sell for balance owed!

Call 1-800-457-2206; www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

Well Drilling

1400

RURAL WATER TREATMENT (Province Wide) Tell them Danny Hooper sent you

)RON &ILTERS s 3OFTENERS s $ISTILLERS s 2EVERSE /SMOSIS h+ONTINUOUS 3HOKv #HLORINATOR 0ATENTED 7HOLE (OUSE 2EVERSE /SMOSIS 3YSTEM

12345 7ITHIN MILES OF %DMONTON

7ATER 7ELL $RILLING 2ED $EER #ALGARY .EW 'OVERNMENT WATER WELL GRANT STARTS !PRIL 4IME 0AYMENT 0LAN / ! # FOR WATER WELLS AND WATER TREATMENT

")' )2/.

View our 29 patented and patent pending inventions online at

www.1800bigiron.com

Firewood

1660

LOGS

Semi loads of pine, spruce, tamarack, poplar.

Price depends on location.

Lil Mule Logging 403-318-4346

Misc. for Sale

1760

Grain, Feed Hay

2190

ROUND bales, Alfalfa Timothy Brome mix, $45/bale; Straw bales $18/bale; Clover Alfalfa Timothy mix $40/bale 780-975-3313 ROUND hay bales. Cheap Free delivery. Self unloading. No Sunday calls Please. 403-843-6380

RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME & LEG CRAMPS? Fast relief in one hour.

Sleep at night.

Proven for over 32 years; www.allcalm.com. Mon-Fri, 8-4 EST. 1-800-765-8660.

1840

Dogs

3020

PONOKA 3 bdrm. newer townhouse, 3 bath, 5 appls. rent $1295 403-704-1221

Wanted To Buy

Houses For Sale

3020

FURNISHED 2 BEDROOM HOUSE Centrally located $850/mnth plus utilities, N/S, N/P

403-396-0075 PONOKA: Close to downtown, 1 bdrm., 1 bath house, 5 appls., double garage, N/S, no pets. $800 rent/dd + utilities. Avail.

Dec. 1. 403-783-4993

For Rent Suites #3000 - #3200 Houses/ Duplexes

F1B GOLDEN DOODLES, black now but will brindle as they get older. Non shedding, well handled, long time breeder. $900.

Delivered to Alberta.

Text 306-521-1371 or call 306-792-2113 www.furtettishfarm.ca

Houses/ Duplexes

3060

AVAILABLE DEC 1 2 bdrm suite incl. heat & water

403-783-6011

4020

1930

TAMARACK

Lil Mule Logging Inc. is now buying standing Tamarack. Minimum 10 acres. 403-318-4346

Agricultural #2000 - #2290 Farm Equipment

2010

FREE Order your high quality summers mounted harrow attachments and get free freight to Alberta.

Contact machinery_dave@yahoo.ca; 403-545-2580; Bow Island, Alberta; www.summers.com.

Grain, Feed Hay

2190

HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola.

Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed.

Buying damaged or offgrade grain. “On Farm Pickup�

Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-250-5252

Auctions

1530 Upcoming Sale Dates

Thursday Nov 28th Calgary AB Unreserved Industrial Equipment Selling for12345 Vulcan County, City of Calgary & more Saturday Nov 30th Edmonton AB 1200 Passenger Vehicles & RV’s.

Call us to Add Your Name to our Mailing List Today!

Edmonton 800-665-5888 Calgary 877-811-8855 Register Online for Email Notification Live Internet Bidding Available

www.maauctions.com

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

QUIET 1 BDRM APT ON 50 ST, PONOKA Utilities included $

545 plus D.D.

Call Dave after 5:30pm

403-913-5525

Condos/ Townhouses

For Sale

by Owner 2 bdr. Condo Tamarack Court 45 + condo fully renovated New appliances Contact 403-304-8484

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

403-357-0287

Real Estate #4000 - #4190 Houses For Sale

4020

CUSTOM LOG HOMES and Log Specialties - M&H Wood Specialties 1-888-991-5700 or email: sales@mhwood.com; www.mhwood.com.

Public Notices

4040

Acreages

Money To Loan

SHOWHOME SPECTACULAR! We want you to own a wonderful former showhome at a fantastic price. 1672 sq. ft., too many features to list! $169,000. Ready for immediate delivery; www. unitedhomescanada.com.

148 Eastlake Blvd., Airdrie.

1-800-461-7632.

DROWNING IN DEBT? Cut debts more than 60% & debt free in half the time!

Avoid bankruptcy!

Free consultation; www.mydebtsolution.com or toll free 1-877-556-3500.

BBB rated A+.

4090

4050

APPROX. 30 acres. 20 min. to Lacombe. 1/2 mile off Hwy 12. Creek & exc. building site. 403-396-2925

Farms/ Land

Manufactured Homes

4070

1/4 SE24-40-24-W4 $4000 oil revenue. 1/2 mile from #12 Hwy. Power & water. 403-396-2925

Manufactured Homes

4090

Financial #4400 - #4430

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

Money To Loan

4430

4430

FAST AND EASY LOANS! Bad credit accepted!

Get up to $25,000 on your vehicle, mobile-home, land or equipment.

1st and 2nd mortgages. www.bhmcash.com.

403-879-9929.

6010

PUBLIC NOTICE TELUS would like to notify area residents of a proposal of a new telecommunication facility installation situated at NW 7-42-27 W4M. The proposed installation will be a 100 m guyed tower. All of the equipment required to operate the facility will be located in an adjacent shelter at the base of the tower.

This new telecommunications facility will provide enhanced wireless service and improved coverage in the areas northeast of Bentley.

5100

2014 TUSCANY 36MQ Diesel Pusher, 37’ 9” long, 4 slides, fireplace, washer/ dryer, king bed, stk# 8418, $192,000 1-866-346-3148 shop online 24/7 at Allandale.com 2014 PALAZZO 33.2 Diesel Pusher, 34’ 8” long, 2 slides, 300HP Cummins ISB Diesel engine, stk# 1912, $144,900 1-866-346-3148 shop online 24/7 at Allandale.com.

Tires, Parts Acces.

VETERINARY SERVICES

Ponoka Veterinary Clinic Public Notice #6000

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

Public Notices

5180

WRECKING GET BACK on track!

AUTO-TRUCKS. Bad credit? Bills?

Unemployed? Need money? Parts to fit over 500 trucks.

Lots of Dodge, GMC, We lend! If you own your Ford, imports. own home - you qualify.

We ship anywhere.

Pioneer Acceptance Corp.

Lots of Dodge, diesel, Member BBB. 4x4 stuff. (Lloydminster).

1-877-987-1420; Reply 780-875-0270. www.pioneerwest.com.

North-East Recyclers truck up to 3 tons.,0.00,0.00

DO YOU NEED to borrow money - Now? If you own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits will lend you money - It’s that simple. 1-877-486-2161.

SMART. SPACIOUS. STYLISH. Clearing out our Moduline 2013 Models.

Best value of the year.

Delivered within 300 km of Lethbridge. Call us at READ THE CLASSIFIEDS & 1-855-380-2266; find just what you’re looking www.craigshomesales.com for. 1-877-223-3311

Motorhomes

Transportation #5000-5300

Heavy Trucks

5060

TRIDEM WATER TRUCK and 2007 10x30 QA shack.

2004 WS 4900 SA 120 barrel with only 115,000 kilometers. Pre-emissions.

Recent CV. Maintenance records available.

403-340-9328.

Public Notices

YOUR PAPER!

3060

RECYCLE

Suites

PONOKA NEWS Page 39

6010

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS Estate of

VERNON CLIFFORD ERICKSON who died on

OCTOBER 30, 2013 If you have a claim against this estate, you must ¿le your claim by DECEMBER 31, 2013 and provide details of your claim with

JAMES ERICKSON AND/OR DONNA MARTIN

at 6417 – 55 Avenue, Ponoka, AB T4J 1S2.

If you do not ¿le by the date above, the estate property can lawfully be distributed without regard to any claim you may have.

6010

Ponoka County

PUBLIC NOTICE Amendment to Land Use By-Law 7-08-LU Reclassify PT SE 6-43-23-W4 (approximately 23.50 acres total) from Agricultural District to Country Residential Hobby for resale purposes.

Before considering the by-law, Council will hold a Public Hearing at which any person claiming to be affected may ask questions or make comments. This hearing is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 26, 2013 in the Council Chambers of the County Administration Building.

A copy of the proposed bylaw may be inspected at the County Administration Building, Ponoka, Alberta during regular office hours.

Written comments can be faxed to 403-265-1118 or emailed to commentsab@standardland.com All comments will be accepted until December 20, 2013

Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 5 pm Sat. 9 am - 4:30 pm

24 Hr. Emergency 403-783-4348

5502 - Hwy 2A Ponoka, AB

T4J 1M1

THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS FOR

$30

PER WEEK.

CALL 4037833311 ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST

$

30

PER WEEK.

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK. WATER WELL DRILLING SERVICES

The Council of Ponoka County has been asked by Lyle and Lorna Norn to amend Land Use By-Law 7-08-LU as follows:

Your comments are welcome at 403-265-1116 ext. 174

Dr. Murray Jacobson Dr. Clayton West Dr. Ashley Shannon

Charlie B. Cutforth Chief Administrative Officer Ponoka County 4205 - Highway #2A PONOKA, Alberta T4J 1V9 Phone: 403-783-3333 Fax: 403-783-6965 e-mail: PonokaCounty@PonokaCounty.com

Darcy’s Drilling Services • water wells drilled & serviced • new pump & pressure system installations • all types of pump repairs • well shocking Darcy Schmidt Ph: (403) 783-2220 Fax: (403) 783-8828 Email: darcysdrillingservices@hotmail.com

WATER WELL SERVICE

ECKLUND Water Well Service

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

CUSTOM TUB GRINDING • Different screens for bedding & feed • 600 HP truck driven for fast grinding • Minimum Charge 2 HRS @ $220/HR

CALL LEEN VOGELAAR 403-704-0919

Page 40 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2013

Hammy’s SPIRITS

OPEN

10 AM - 10 PM 7 Days A Week

COURVOISIER 12 YEARS COGNAC 750 ml.

69.99 EACH

$

COORS BANQUET

355 ml. 6 can

10.99 EACH

$ APOTHIC RED OR WHITE

355 ml. 12 can

NAKED GRAPE ASSORTED VARIETIES

21.99 EACH

$

750 ml.

3/$21.00

OR

7

$ .49

EACH

750 ml

10.99 EACH

$

FETZER VALLEY OAKS WHITE ZINFANDEL 750 ml.

8

$ .99 DI SARONNO AMARETTO MONSOON GUAVA MELON MIST OR PAPAYA TANGERINE SPLASH 355 ml. 6 can

2/$15.00

OR

7

$ .99

750 ml.

1.14 L

12.99 EACH $23.99 EACH $29.99 EACH

$

LAPHROAIG QUARTER CASK SCOTCH

EACH

CANADIAN CLUB WHISKY 750 ml.

191.14.99LEACH $ 29.99 EACH

$

375 ml.

BAREFOOT BUBBLY BRUT OR BUBBLY PINOT GRIGIO 750 ml.

8

$ .99

EACH

750 ml.

38.99 EACH

$

PINNACLE CLASSIC VODKA 750 ml.

18.99 EACH

$

Bay #5, 4502 - 50th St. • 403-783-2333 Prices in effect Wednesday, Nov. 20 to Tuesday Nov. 26, 2013 Prices do not include GST or deposit. We reserve the right to limit quantities

EACH