Ponoka News, August 19, 2015

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY Vol. 67, No. 34 | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2015 | 403-783-3311 | WWW.PONOKANEWS.COM

Storm headed to double double with 6-2 win Story on page 23

The pioneer woman during the early settlement of the prairies Story on page 5

Celebrating 39 years of Farmers’ Markets: Chelsey MacKenzie (middle) enjoys a sweet cake Wednesday, Aug. 12 at the Ponoka Farmers’ Market as the group celebrated 39 years of markets. Please see our story on page 20.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

1-877-465-8279 6305 - 44 Avenue, Ponoka

2 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Building and development totals lower than previous year

Trish Abdulla, director of planning and development for the Town of Ponoka.

File photo

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

Town planners are not overly worried seeing lower

building and development totals compared to last year.

Trish Adbulla, director of planning and development for the Town of Ponoka, says that number can fluctuate depending on what types of developments occur year after year.

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show totals at just over $8 million while for the same period in 2014, those numbers were at more than $13 million. “It’s always good to have a comparison of the year before,” said Abdulla.

The biggest difference appears to be in June, 2014 where large commercial developments of $5 million was underway. The new Cervus Equipment building was one of two large projects last year, explained Abdulla.

Residential permits are down from 2014 as well with year-to-date totals for 2015 at $3.4 million compared to $6.9 million the year before.

Abdulla has seen fewer permits across the province and she feels the downturn in the economy may have contributed to that.

While there is some land being developed along 60 Street and 50 Avenue, actual development numbers won’t be seen until permits have been applied for and issued,

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BY MURRAY CRAWFORD ADVOCATE STAFF

He may have lost the first battle in a lawsuit against the Town of Ponoka, but Robert Koteles now has a road map for moving forward with his claim.

Koteles has a licence to produce medical marijuana for his own use.

He has filed a claim against Ponoka after the town ordered the removal of a sea container that housed his grow-operation.

In Red Deer Court of Queen’s Bench on Monday, Koteles sought immediate judgment from the Justice Debra Yungwirth.

Bradley Nattrass, representing Ponoka, sought for a dismissal of the application, saying it was inappropriate for the matter to be heard in a morning chambers session.

Yungwirth agreed with Nattrass, but said she would provide guidance to Koteles — who is self-represented — on how to properly proceed on his statement of claim.

After his matter was heard, Koteles said he was relieved it was going forward and grateful for the guidance from Yungwirth on how to proceed. His next step is filing an affidavit of records, which will inform

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explained Abdulla.

An area she is pleased to see is the planned land-use bylaw reviews, which hasn’t been changed since 1997.

Abdulla says this is an ideal time to gain input as planners are considering how land can be used in different zones.

“Not just the development community, but the community as a whole, should feel free to stop here and have their questions answered,” said Abdulla of the planning offices now located at the Visitor Information Centre.

“One of the ways you facilitate development is by creating a strong, sustainable, existing community,” she added.

Community planning sessions for land-use bylaw review The first of several sessions where residents can voice their opinions on future development is coming up on Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 7 p.m. at the Hudson Green Nature and Activity Centre.

Planners are looking for information and ideas on growth in Ponoka and what the town’s perceived needs are. Areas such as population density, development and setbacks will be considered during this first session.

Abdulla said she looks forward to hearing from the residents on their ideas for the Town of Ponoka.

Marijuana grower moves forward with his case against town

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the proceedings.

Koteles, a member of the Cannabis Rights Coalition, filed the statement of claim on June 5, seeking compensation for loss and medical distress.

He suffers from severe arthritis pain in his upper and lower back and is authorized to grow up to 44 marijuana plants for his use only.

He had his grow-operation set up in a sea container on a driveway at a residence on 60th Avenue in Ponoka in 2012. By 2013, the town had ordered the sea can removed.

After applying for a temporary structure permit, which was refused by the town and then by the subdivision and developmental appeal board, he had to dismantle the grow-operation.

His statement of claim said his Charter rights have been breached because the town’s order was to remove a federally authorized medical marijuana grow operation. He also said another sea can was in place a block east of his. And he said the town has compromised his health, safety and finances.

The Town of Ponoka denies all of the allegations.

In its statement of defence, the town states the placement and use of the sea can as a greenhouse was in contravention of the municipality’s land use bylaw.

None of the allegations have been proven in court.

Koteles states in an affidavit that in lieu of using marijuana, he has been prescribed hydromorphone and other opiates, which he said exacerbate his breathing problems. He claims this leads to other health issues, including sleeplessness, anxiety, heart palpitations and panic attacks.

He has filed an address change application with Health Canada to relocate and start over. The application is on hold until the outcome of Allard et al versus Regina, a federal court case about new laws that would force medical marijuana patients to purchase from industry producers instead of growing their own.

Now living in the Philippines, Koteles is only in Canada for court proceedings. But he said he can’t afford to fly back and forth constantly.

PONOKA NEWS 3

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Man charged with stunting over “F___ Harper” sign

Members of the Ponoka Integrated Traffic Unit pulled over an Edmonton driver on Highway 2 north of Ponoka after noticing a large pink sign with the phrase “F___ Harper” on his rear window.

Rob Wells, the 67-yearold driver was given a ticket for stunting after refusing to take the sign down. He received a ticket for $543 Aug. 16 due to the startling nature of the sign. A court date for Nov. 12 has been set if Wells decides to fight the ticket.

Man charged with assault in domestic case A child was hurt in a domestic call Aug. 11 in a rural residence in Ponoka Aug. 11. Police say a 42-year-old intoxicated male was charged with two counts of assault after grabbing his girlfriend by the arms and forcibly pushing her out of the residence. He is to appear in court Aug. 28.

Trailer park home fire This was the second

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home fire at the Ponoka Trailer Park in recent weeks. This time the fire occurred in the early morning hours of Aug. 12.

The roof of a mobile home unit started believed to be from a faulty ceiling light.

There were no injuries in the incident.

Alcohol a factor in rollover Emergency crews responded to a single vehicle roll over that occurred on Range Road 273 in Ponoka County on Aug. 8.

The driver of the vehicle, a 21-year-old man, was seriously injured when he lost control on the gravel road and rolled several times.

Two women in the vehicle suffered minor injuries.

Alcohol was a factor in the collision and STARS Air Ambulance was called in to transport the man for treatment. Charges are pending.

Search of property yields marijuana Police attended a complaint of a suspected marijuana grow operation in the 4400 block of 45 Street Ponoka.

At approximately 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 7 a search of the premise was conducted, which turned up a small amount of drugs. A 41-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman were charged with possession of drugs. They are to appear in court Aug. 18 and Sept. 11.

Hay bales stolen Between Sat. Aug. 1 and Aug. 6, 10 round bales of hay were stolen from a rural property in the area of Hwy 604 and Rng. Rd. 272. It is unknown if all 10 bales were taken at one time or if they were taken in small amounts.

Postal locks cut in the county Reports of postal locks cut on Range Road 272 has police investigating. The report came in Aug. 7 at approximately 5 p.m. That the locks were lying on the ground.

Police advise people to notify them of any suspicious vehicles that are seen in rural areas. If possible obtain license plate numbers, as on occasion, people stop on properties providing a false story asking for assistance and taking the opportunity to observe what items are available and where they are located on the property.

Possible fraud case A report of two suspicious males that said they were salesmen and had a gift for the caller was reported to police Aug. 11.

They stated they wanted to practice sales techniques.

The caller reported the incident on the chance they were casing the area for future break and enters.

Police investigating ATV theft Report of a theft of quad was received from PHONE: 403-783-4911 FAX: 403-783-5222

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a rural location on Range Road 264 on Aug. 14. The theft occurred sometime during the night. A red 2006 Yamaha Grizzly 660 was stolen out of a shop.

Man charged with impaired driving A routine traffic stop on Highway 2A Aug. 14 found alcohol in the vehicle and a man believed to be impaired. He war subsequently arrested and charged with impaired driving. The blood alcohol amounts were not available at the time of production.

His vehicle was subsequently impounded and drivers’ licence suspended. He is to appear in court Sept. 18.

Woman drives into dollar store Police are investigating an incident where a 75-year-old woman drove into Your Dollar Store

With More Aug. 17. Some damage was caused to the front of the building and

police say the woman put the vehicle into drive instead of reverse.

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4 PONOKA NEWS

Religion

Your Guide To Local Houses of Worship

Five lifechanging tips

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

Jerel Peters Area Director Central Alberta Youth Unlimited

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

5109 - 57 Ave. Ponoka www.fbcponoka.org

403-783-5533

Bible Discovery Hour 9:30 a.m.

Worship Service 10:30 a.m.

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

Everyone Welcome! phone: 403-783-6962 • www.baptistreformedponoka.org

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

Rev. Mitch Ramkissoon www.parklandurc.org

PONOKA WORD OF LIFE CHURCH Pastor Rob McArthur

403-783-5659

Sunday @ 10:30 a.m.

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

www.wordoflife.ca

PONOKA UNITED CHURCH Minister: Beatrix Schirner

ponokaunited@shaw.ca

Sunday Service 10:00 am.

5020-52 Ave. Ponoka

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Phone: 403-783-4087

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

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

403-783-6012 • www.sonriseponoka.com

ST. AUGUSTINE CATHOLIC CHURCH Fr. Shimit Abraham CFIC Mass Times: 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 9:00 a.m. Sunday

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

I don’t want to exaggerate or be overdramatic, but I may have stumbled upon a cure for broken relationships, arguing, and conflict. I’m not joking; it is revolutionary.

It happened somewhat suddenly one day this summer, after some particularly tense arguments

and struggles with our kids.

In a bit of desperation and frustration, I scrambled for some verses in the Bible that could help us figure things out. What I found was more than I had hoped for. To those who think the Bible is full of myths and fairy tales, you might want to give this a shot; I am convinced it has power to transform relationships. As I read through the New Testament book of Philippians, in chapter 2, I quickly established critical guidelines for our family that I believe could radically transform any difficult environment … work, home, political … these instructions are a goldmine to relationships.

Before I make the big revelation, we must set the stage by looking at Philippians 2 verse 1. It starts out with a series of questions: “Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate?” (Philippians 2:1 NLT) They are questions specific to the followers of Christ in Philippi, and they set the context to the words that are revolutionizing my world … verses 2-4.

I have to warn you these instructions will require something of you to make them work. This is not a

magic potion you feed your kids and they instantly behave; or a special remedy you feed your co-worker to create instant happiness. It won’t automatically end the rumoured conflict between Ponoka Town Council and Ponoka County, but if exemplified by even a few, it can have a dramatic impact in nearly any relationship.

Here it is, verses 2 and 3, “Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.” (Philippians 2:2-4 NLT) Our family has committed to memorizing the first 11 verses of Philippians 2 in an attempt to help us implement these instructions: 1. Agree with each other, 2.

Love one another, 3. Work together, 4. Put others first, 5. Demonstrate humility.

I realize you may find yourself in an environment where others involved are not interested in living this out, but if you are willing to work at it, I am confident that it will have a profound impact in any environment.

I challenge the citizens of Ponoka, the churches, the politicians, the families, even the youth, apply those five principles in your life and relationships and together, let’s see what happens in Ponoka.

ST. MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH Rev. Donna Willer Rev. Marty Tuer, Honourary Assistant 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 10:30 am

Five generations of Odgaards: Isabel Odgaard holding her great-great granddaughter Annabelle Morris as father Dustin Morris is flanked by great grandmother Carol Morris (left) and grandmother Debbie Morris in the memorial family photo.

Submitted photo

PONOKA NEWS 5

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Reflections of Ponoka A salute to our pioneer women … the first 50 years

BY MIKE RAINONE FOR THE NEWS

The Town of Ponoka was in full celebration mode during the first week of August 1954 to honour the gala 50th anniversary of a great and active family community that in half a century had grown from a handful of settlers, a few wooden buildings and a brand new railroad to a thriving town of over 3,000 citizens.

It was a festive week of fun that featured parades, banquets, entertainment, historical displays and a much deserved salute to our founding Ponoka urban and rural families from all walks of life, as well as the businesses, professionals and dedicated labour force who had teamed together to build the foundations of Ponoka and districts from the grass roots on the way to a bright future for all generations. During the opening ceremonies of the fifties celebration, Mayor Hughie Roberts and honoured guest John McGillivray, who was the first Mayor of Ponoka in 1904 (population 400), extended greetings to thousands of local citizens, dignitaries, former pioneers and visitors from far and wide.

In his welcoming speech, Roberts stressed that we must always appreciate and never forget our dedicated first pioneers, who faced countless hardships, loneliness, and sorrow in those rugged early days, but worked hard together and persevered through the good times and the bad to give us what we rejoice and celebrate today. He also reminded the young people that we cannot stop here, but to press on and continue to carry the torch that our forefathers lit and to set higher goals for our community as they headed into the new generations and exciting challenges of the future.

Pioneer W.A. Archibald salutes the ladies In a delightful address to the Old-timers’ Banquet during the Ponoka 50th Anniversary Week, pioneer W.A. Archibald paid

tribute to the remarkable men and women who had the courage to converge on this unbroken wilderness in the early 1900s and began to pool their ideas and stake their claims for a place in the future of Al-

Remember When...

Photo courtesy of Fort Ostell Museum

The Ponoka Stagette Club spent many hours preparing this magnificent float in honour of our town’s gala for 50th anniversary from 1904-1954.

Each of the 50 candles on the cake were made by hand, and as well as appearing in the weeklong community celebration and parade in August, the first official ‘Ponoka float’ travelled to many other events throughout the province to proudly display the first 50 years of our colorful and thriving town.

berta, Canada. “Today, as we look back over a half a century there is a feeling of extreme pride to realize that through all the challenges and hardships along the way we were mostly thrilled with the idea of exploring, breaking, building, and slowly developing this country into the fine town and country districts that we share and enjoy today,” he said. Mr. Archibald also vividly expressed that in the beginning, we, younger men, were so lucky to have had the advice, know-how and leadership of these older pioneer families, who brought their knowhow, knowledge, skills and experiences from all parts of the world.

He expressed disappointment that the fine Ponoka 50th Anniversary History book did not give enough recognition to our hardy pioneer women, whose accomplishments and contributions were both amazing and neverending, and would have made an epic tale equal to the bravery and devotion of the Florence Nightingale’s, Laura Secord’s and so many other great ladies of the world, both then and now. Mr. Archibald fondly exemplified their courage, kindness and inspiration by offering examples such as.... the elderly woman who killed a big black bear in the hen house with an axe; the mother who tied

Photo submitted

The pioneer woman stood over her hot old kitchen stove preparing a meal for a big rambunctious and busy family at the beginning of each and every day of chores and challenges from dawn to dusk during the early settlement of our Alberta prairies.

her kids to the table legs and went out to hunt the cows, got lost in the storm, and had to stay in the bush all night; the brave and determined women who travelled miles on horseback through horrific conditions to aid a sick neighbour, deliver a baby, and on and on. He also referred to Sir Winston Churchill’s most prolific quote of being a strong supporter of kings, but he liked queens better, and also thought that daughters were always a mighty good investment.

Facts you should know by Allan James Long time congenial Ponoka resident and carpenter/bus driver/Jackof-all-trades Allan James wrote a delightful story which starts on page 89 of the Ponoka Panorama History book and pays tribute to countless early community citizens, entrepreneurs, and real

characters, as well as a special tribute to all the ladies in their lives.

‘Our hats are off to the wives of the pioneers for their strong pride, persistence, patience and passion in what was the exciting era long before ‘Women’s Lib’ was ever heard of.’

Through those challenging early decades of our town and districts the old saying was, ‘Where there is a real successful man, there is always a remarkable woman that has quietly helped him to reach his lofty goals during their day-to-day challenging role as wives and mothers, as well as the calming influence around the house, the farm, and the store.’

Somehow along the way they managed to handle all the chores from dawn to dusk, while raising very active families that often numbered as high as 16, but still somehow found the time to tend to the garden, help with

the harvest, host a Sunday picnic, take part in the play at the hall, and provide room and board for the school teacher. In those glorious days of no television, radio, telephones and long-distance neighbours, it was during their rare quiet times that the wives and mothers were often disturbed by a visit from tramps and peddlers, but with a little luck she may just get to watch one silent movie a month or read a chapter of her book. It all changed just a little when dad got his first car, which a few wives were allowed to drive once in a while, but usually only slowly through one of the many ‘cattle gates’, where hubby was constantly standing with his hands on his hips hollering ‘whoa-whoa.’

Whatever the case, there was and never will be too many occasions when we will ever be able to survive without these wonderful ladies at our side.

6 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Opinion

NYT perception of Stephen Harper’s Canada

Mustafa Eric

Editor The New York Times published a damning editorial this week on Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s nine and a half years in power and described the period as a time of “darkening” in Canada. (The article can be read at http://www.nytimes. com/2015/08/16/opinion/

sunday/the-closing-of-thecanadian-mind.html?_r=0 ) A day after the editorial appeared, I happened to be sitting in a restaurant next to a table where two seniors were having a discussion on the ongoing trial of suspended Senator Patrick Duffy and the broader issues of politics and election campaign.

I could not help overhearing one senior telling the other that she saw nothing wrong in Stephen Harper’s former chief of staff Nigel Wright’s paying $90,000 from his own pocket so that Duffy could pay back taxpayer’s money. I couldn’t hear what the other senior said in response as I was not seated in a way facing her. And then I got involved in the conversation at my own table and didn’t pay much attention to how that

discussion at the next table developed and didn’t think about it until I watched the evening news bulletin on the CBC which was full of Duffy trial reporting and analysis.

Is there really not anything wrong in Wright’s cutting a cheque for Duffy?

The former chief of staff was reported to have made references to the Bible in justifying his payment to Duffy as charity and his way of keeping the payment a secret (until of course it was revealed). He insisted that the amount he paid to the suspended senator came from his personal bank account.

Now there is a tricky question here: How much did Nigel Wright make as a senior government bureaucrat? Was he rich enough to throw away $90,000 just

5019A Chipman Ave., Box 4217, Ponoka, AB. T4J 1R6 Phone: 403.783.3311 Fax: 403.783.6300 Email: editorial@ponokanews.com Published every Wednesday by PNG Prairie Newspaper Group in community with: Regional Publisher, Fred Gorman

Judy Dick Manager

to help a senator save face?

Even if he made, say, half a million dollars a year, why would he give up almost 20 per cent of his annual salary to someone who was becoming a serious nuisance for his boss, the prime minister?

Are we expected to be naïve enough to believe that Wright was not reimbursed or will not be reimbursed for this payment?

As his cross examination

by Duffy’s lawyer Donald Bayne is still continuing, we don’t know whether and how Wright will come up with answers to further questioning on the matter.

But as the defence team for Duffy continues to dig in to the email traffic among the staff of the office of the prime minister, there is bound to be more revelations into who knew how

Mustafa Eric Editor

much about the payment and whether Harper was a part of the cover-up.

Despite all the damaging details coming out of the trial, which, by the way, are all circumstantial, it is quite possible that the prime minister may come out of this trial without being found legally responsible for the mess that was created by the scandal of fraudulent expense claims.

But isn’t there a wider context beyond the trial that all Canadians should be looking at when they ponder about their stance with regard to the current head of their federal government?

If one makes up a list of the scandals stemming from the Senate, whose appointees will feature prominently on that list?

Why did the most promi-

Jeff Heyden-Kaye Reporter

nent cabinet ministers resign their posts one after another since the beginning of the year?

Why are war veterans starting a nationwide campaign to have any person but Stephen Harper in office after the elections?

Duffy trial, Nigel Wright’s cheque, all the emails that are being scrutinized and the repeated accusations and denials are all part of a culture of governance, that of Stephen Harper’s, described by the New York Times as “know nothing conservatism.”

As Canadians prepare to vote for their next government, they might want to answer the question that makes up the punch line of the editorial: Do Canadians like their country as it is today?

Karen Douglass Sales

Susan Whitecotton Administration

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

PONOKA NEWS 7

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

New North Bridge and road realignment to move forward

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

Town council voted to replace the North Bridge and realign the road Tuesday, Aug. 11 during a regular meeting. Both projects are estimated at $5.45 million. This image was taken last winter.

File photo

Town of Ponoka councillors voted to approve the replacement of the North Bridge in conjunction with the road realignment project.

The projects are estimated to cost a total of $5.45 million, approximately $1.85 million more than planned for, said CAO Rachel Kunz. Much of the cost will be debentured.

Recommendations to award the projects to the lowest bidders were presented by Tagish Engineering for the road realignment and Lex 3 for the new bridge. Tagish recommended the town award the road project to In-Line Contracting for $2.65 million and Lex 3 recommended the bridge project to Volker Stevin Highways for $2.37 million.

In addition to the two projects, the town estimated another $435,000 for street lighting, engineering consultants and equipment storage.

Coun. Tim Falkiner was not in favour of spending the money on the bridge. “Based on the state of the economy and perhaps the need for a new town hall, and a new RCMP station. Perhaps the money could be put to better use.�

He suggested closing the bridge would be a better option as the increase in taxes to all residents would only benefit a small area. “The residents living in that area, they’re not a large percentage of our constituency,� he added.

Coun. Teri Underhill disagreed, stating the bridge is used by many residents each day. “There is a fair amount of traffic using that bridge.�

She added that many residents on the west side of town use the bridge and Coun. Marc Yaworski said the bridge is an access point to the town’s waste transfer station. He feels that a “one bridge town� is not something councillors want to see.

“No matter where, we’re going to have to spend some money and it’s going to impact the taxpayer,� added Mayor Rick Bonnett.

He suggests the biggest challenge with previous councils was waiting for money to come for larger projects. The North Bridge replacement is an example of that; in 2003 the council of the day commissioned a report on the bridge, which said it would need to be replaced by 2012. However, no money was saved and little action was taken to move the project forward. “We have to grab the bull by the horns,� stated Bonnett.

In a vote of 6-1, council approved amending the capital budget for the project to $5.45 million from $3.6 million with Falkiner opposed. Council also voted to award the road realignment project to In-Line Contracting with Falkiner opposed. Council voted unanimously to award the bridge project to Volker Stevin Highways.

Get back in the black and reduce your payments

By Joel Schlesinger, Postmedia Works

At 64, Glenda Kittler, a Calgary teacher, was not a typical mortgage applicant. But she’d been down this road before. “I was a single mom and I had a house back then, but I found once the kids were gone that it was just too much work, so I decided to sell and rent,� she says.

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Among the many options is the home equity line of credit, which often offers borrowers the lowest interest rate available outside of automobile loans, she says. Yet even when individuals have no home to secure a loan at a lower rate, they usually have other assets. And in many cases, the interest cost can be cut to a fraction of that of a credit card.

But after several recent rent hikes and retirement on the horizon, Kittler decided she might be EHWWHU RII RZQLQJ KHU RZQ SODFH 6R VKH ZHQW WR KHU ÂżQDQFLDO LQVWLWXWLRQ WR VHH ZKDW FRXOG EH GRQH “Even if you have nothing to secure a loan, we can work with you — looking at your credit history and employment history — to bring interest costs down considerably.â€? “I was quickly pre-approved, but I also felt that I had some high-interest credit card debt that In many cases, individuals pay their debts off faster and, in the meantime, can even divert the needed to be addressed, too,â€? she says. “So my adviser suggested a plan to consolidate my savings as a result of the lower debt payments to a tax-free savings account (TFSA). debt at a much lower rate.â€?

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8 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Communities in Bloom judges tour the Town of Ponoka

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

Judges with the Communities in Bloom program had a full day of touring Ponoka Thursday, Aug. 13 evaluating the town and its amenities.

Wes Amendt, director of community services, spent much of the day with judges who conducted a full day tour of the Town of Ponoka, which included the waste treatment facilities and an evaluation of the town’s policies.

Most people don’t realize the program looks at every aspect of a community, said judge Berta Briggs. “The town has prepared a profile book, which just gives us more background information.”

She said the book highlights many amenities within the town and she was impressed with its contents.

This is the second year the town has been part of the program and also the second year in the non-competitive Friends category, where communities are evaluated, but not ranked, with similar sized municipalities.

Briggs said the tour helped highlight many aspects of Ponoka. “The town is very well balanced and we’re learning about that. So really when it comes down to the evaluation, it becomes the details we base our recommendations on,” explained Judges with the Communities in Bloom program toured Ponoka Thursday, Aug. 13. Here they are introduced to the Community Garden, which is hosted by Ponoka FCSS. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

This paper is

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UPCOMING CLASSES GED PREPARATION Date: September 16 to November 27, 2015 Time: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 5 to 8 pm Instructor: Esterina Manyluk Included in the GED Preparation class is: • 100 hours of GED Preparation instruction via videoconferencing • Books and calculator • GED exam fee Who is eligible for GED training?

All Albertans, 18 years of age or older.

For more information or to register call Ponoka Adult Learning 403-783-3285 or F.C.S.S. 403-783-4462

HIP FIT

Hip Fit is a dance workout that blends hip hop, salsa, strength, burlesque, belly dance with a little bit of cardio kickboxing thrown!

Ponoka Elementary School Gym Mondays 7 pm to 8 pm, 10 classes Sept. 14, 21, 28, Oct. 5, 19, 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23 Cost: $87.50 Wednesdays 7pm to 8 pm,10 classes Sept. 16, 23, 30, Oct. 7, 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, 18, 25 Cost: $87.50 OR take all Monday & Wednesday classes for $155 Call Ponoka Adult Learning for more information or to register 403-783-3285

Briggs.

One of the benefits of being part of the program is it gives community members a chance to improve their town and follow certain Communities in Bloom criteria to accomplish that. Not only the does it create opportunities for improvement, communities become more visually pleasing.

“It provides that network of community that get together and share ideas,” she added.

There may not be any “cookie cutter” solution to a problem, but by asking questions planners can find out what works and what doesn’t.

Briggs suggested the town’s river valley and trail system is something that is a strong community builder. “It’s connecting the whole community and that is part of community building. You’re going to have a healthier community. You’re going to have a social community because people are going to be moving.”

Doug Hornbeck is another judge who toured Ponoka. He said there are six things judges look at: tidiness, environmental action, heritage conservation, urban forestry, landscape and floral displays.

“We judge you on what your possibility is under your conditions,” said Hornbeck.

The next step is for judges to help the community grow and do better year after year.

The evaluation takes some weeks to compile and Briggs said the recommendations are released in the middle of September.

Nominate your neighbour winners As part of the tour, the town also presented the winners of the Nominate Your Neighbour contest as part of the Communities in Bloom project. Here are the winners: Residential: • First prize, Heather Shingematsu; • Second prize, Thomas and Diane Hughes; Most Improved: • Kal Casy; • Commercial: • Walrus and the Carpenter.

PONOKA NEWS 9

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Town Planning & Development Team move will benefit residents, business and visitors The Planning & Development Department is moving to the Visitor Information Centre. They have some big ideas and goals in mind with this move, and they involve YOU! The Visitor Information Centre is undergoing a transformation to house all three members of the team – Director Patricia Abdulla, Economic Development Officer (EDO) Stephen Novak and Planning Technician Karen JuulAndersen. Once completed, you are invited to stop by for coffee and to check out this newest Town Office.

Planning Counter Service Most people come to the planning counter with development and building permit applications. The new office will now be the place where you can get help with the building permit process, the Town’s Land Use Bylaw and to process your business license, all in a friendly and timely manner. Come in and speak with Karen Juul-Andersen; she’s happy to help.

A new Town Gathering Place The new office will also serve the community by providing a place for open houses, planning and construction seminars, and for those who are in need of entrepreneurial support. “We hope to make this beautiful Town building a Gathering Place for our citizens,” says Abdulla.

“A gathering place where people can bring their planning needs, people can discuss business and development, and a place where people can participate in seminars related to planning as well as public sessions focused on shaping the Town’s short and long-term future. Planning is all about bringing people and plans together – we are excited about this move and becoming a one-stop shop right on Highway 2A.” The Visitor Information Centre will continue to welcome visitors who stop in for local tourism information. P&D office hours will be 9 am – 4 pm weekdays. In addition, we now welcome people who want information about Ponoka’s social, economic and cultural opportunities. Our EDO works to

support a strong, diversified and resilient local economy. His focus is on business and development attraction, business retention and expansion, entrepreneur support, and tourism information services.

Being housed within the VIC will create great synergy, as Novak markets Ponoka locally, provincially, nationally and internationally in support of the Ponoka business community.

The P&D Team works to make Ponoka a liveable, vibrant, safe community for all ages. “Every municipality makes sure to have orderly development and a set of good plans,” adds Abdulla.“We believe Ponoka stands out with our strong hometown pride, sense of heritage and community, and vision for a positive future.” “Ponoka is where we want to put roots and grow,” she adds. Our team is dedicated to serving the community through the work we do on a daily basis, plus through the development of longterm plans.”

Abdulla notes that in her municipal planning career, the most rewarding and successful development plans and land use decisions she has seen come together when a community steps forward to engage and participate in processes. She welcomes everyone to join in as we work together for a vibrant community and positive future growth.

Watch for a series of workshops and focus groups this fall, as we begin our Land Use Bylaw review. “In the meantime, please stop by and say hello,” says Abdulla. “Coffee is on us at the new Town Gathering Place for Planning, Development AND Information.” Meet your P&D Team. Pick up some information about local tourism and events from Mark or Ethan, our VIC staff.

Find out how we can support you to start a business in Ponoka. Get information about permit requirements. We ask for patience during the move, but hope everyone will share our excitement about the potential of this new use of the beautiful Visitor Information Centre.

Ponoka Fire Department Weekly Report PONOKA FIRE WEEKLY REPORT: AUG 6 – AUG 12 PFD responded to six 911 calls • 2 Alarms Bells • 1 Motor Vehicle Accident

HOMETOWN NEWS

The next meeting of Council will be on September 8 at 7:00 PM, Hudson’s Green Activity Centre You are welcome to attend all Town Council meetings to listen to discussions and decisions Agenda packages are posted on the website ‘Town Hall’ in advance of every Council meeting

GET INVOLVED! Land Use Bylaw Community Session September 2 at 7 pm, Hudson’s Green Activity Centre. Please come share your ideas and learn more about how it affects all of us now and in the future.

Set this date aside! COMMUNITY BUDGET WORKSHOP – September 9 from 4:30 – 6:30, Hudson’s Green Activity Centre. If you are interested in the Town’s Budget for 2016 and budget process, please plan to attend.

TOWN NOTICES Toxic Roundup September 12 The Town’s Waste Transfer Site is taking over this year’s Toxic Roundup, and our fire volunteers are helping out. Be sure to mark September 12 on your calendar and start boxing up your paint and electronics.

Residents and Businesses take note! 47 and 48 Avenues and 51 Street Storm Upgrades started on August 17. Traffic re-routing will be necessary while this work occurs. Expected completion is the end of August. If you have questions, please contact the Town’s Operations office at 403-783-0159.

Playground Equipment removals for safety Started on August 17. Public Works crews continue removing equipment identified as not meeting current safety codes. We are very sorry about the summer timing, but safety is very important to us.

Book your table now for Community Information and Registration Night September 2 at 5 pm, Kinsmen Community Centre. Local organizations are welcome. Call Tamara: 403-783-0131 Join the TOP Team – Town of Ponoka Employment opportunities are posted on the website. We are currently looking for Lifeguards / Instructors for the Aquaplex, and a Powerline Technician – Journeyman or Apprentice

• 1 Grass Fire • 1 Gas Leak • 1 Structure Fire

HOMETOWN EVENTS

Celebrate our Hometown! Ponoka Day in the Park – August 28 from 1 to 10 pm – Join the fun as we celebrate Ponoka as a safe, healthy, vibrant and fun community for everyone! Come to Lions Centennial Park for kid’s activities, a charity tug-o-war, picnic in the park, cultural entertainment. Plus – come watch a MOVIE IN THE PARK … see the movie EPIC at 8 pm!

Pride in your Property Results – Thank you to everyone for taking part and showing what a clean, green, vibrant community we live in. 20 nominations were received including 3 recognizing local businesses! Here are the winners for each category: Residential: 1st Prize – Heather Shingematsu 2nd Prize – Thomas & Diane Hughes Most Improved: Kal Casy Commercial: Walrus And The Carpenter Aquaplex – Spaces are filling up for lessons – please call soon ensure you child learns to swim with our fantastic instructors.

Now offering a lap lane 7 days a week all day (except when swim lessons are in session). If you want to join our team, see the job posting for Lifeguards/Instructors on the website.

WEEKLY PROFILE Planning & Development Team Our P&D Team is hoping to see you at their new ‘gathering place’ in the Visitor Information Centre. This dedicated team works to meet your development needs, licensing applications, land use inquiries and business considerations.

Who we are: The Town’s new Director of Planning & Development is Patricia Abdulla. With 29 years of municipal planning experience she’s come full circle to her hometown of Ponoka after working in bustling cities and seaside villages. With a longterm vision for our Town’s future, she leads this team as they work together with residents, developers, businesses, tourism, Council and staff. Stephen Novak is the Town’s Economic Development Officer. Originally from Nova Scotia he comes to Ponoka after successful years working in economic and business development in Canada’s north. He works to market and grow Ponoka’s business and tourism, with the help of the Town’s Economic Development Board made up of local stakeholders.

Karen Juul-Andersen is the P&D Technician. Her years of experience and customer service focus show as she cheerfully helps you at the planning counter with permits and applications.

What we do for you: The Planning & Development Department provides professional and technical advice to developers, interdepartmental staff and Council on current and future uses of land and on issues concerning housing, the environment, culture and heritage preservation, transportation, tourism, and socio-economic policies. It is responsible for the administration of zoning, land use and development applications, building permit and license applications, and subdivision processes. Staff also prepare land use plans and policies and serve the community by responding to a wide range of inquiries and applications related to the use and development of land.

Karen Juul-Anderson Stephen Novak Patricia Abdulla

10 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

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PONOKA NEWS 11

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Town staff prepare for move to temporary offices

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

The potential to extend the life of Ponoka Town Hall appears slim to none after an air quality report shows unsafe working conditions.

At the request of town council, administration released the report to the public Tuesday, June 11 during its regular meeting. CAO Rachel Kunz explained to council her goal was to get a concrete set of details on the state of the building and present it to councillors with a recommendation for a course of action.

An air quality assessment and site inspection of the building was undertaken by an Edmonton company called RH Services on May 5 after staff complaints over odors in the building.

The inspection covered six areas: indoor air quality and comfort parameters, lighting, mould, ventilation, asbestos and sewage and storm water lift stations in the basement.

“The one thing that we don’t know is what is the life expectancy of that building,” explained Kunz of the assessment., “… and how many years does it have left and what type of maintenance has to be done.”

Space for employees to work is another consideration for Kunz, who suggested if the town expands, there may not be room for everyone with the current building.

Results of the air quality assessment The 21-page report shows inspections in several areas of Town Hall with major issues in the basement. Among them, mould, wood rot fungus and asbestos were found.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels higher than acceptable ranges (up to 800 ppm are considered acceptable) were found in the finance office on the main floor and on the second floor in the mayor’s office when the roof HVAC fans were turned off.

When the fans were turned on, the report states, the CO2 levels ranged from 540 to 630 ppm.

Lighting is also an issue as well as proper ventilation at all departments.

Another challenge for staff is a sewage odor; there are lift stations for sewage and storm water in the basement

of the building.

The real issue appears to be the presence of asbestos in the basement in mechanical insulations, ceiling texture above the suspended ceiling in the finance offices. RH Services stated in the report that issue should be dealt with immediately.

Estimated costs of dealing with the issues, except the asbestos and ventilation fixes, are $42,500.

However, the cost to remove the asbestos adds to that estimate, said Kunz.

Allnorth Consultants estimated that dealing with the identified asbestos areas, the mould and relocating the basement lift station could cost $400,000.

She says removing all the asbestos in Town Hall could cost upwards of $1 million.

What has happened since the report was received?

Since the town received the report, the upstairs area was blocked off for use. The CAO and administrative assistant moved their offices to the town shop and the basement was blocked off for the public.

Staff meetings are held in different offices around town and town council meetings are held at the Hudson Green Nature and Activity Centre.

Staff are preparing to move in the fall to a possible long-term temporary space until a solution can be found. No decisions have been made but planners will have to look at a space large enough to house employees and equipment and town planners will also have to consider a plan of what to do with the building.

Council wants out “There’s an old analogy,” stated Mayor Rick Bonnett, “that when the horse is dead, dismount.”

Administration requested that council approve the commissioning of a full report and analysis for all possibilities for Town Hall but councillors did not feel it is worth the extra money.

“Are we throwing good money after bad?” asked Coun. Teri Underhill.

She suggests the building has already approached the end of its life and any more money to improve it would be a waste. “I think it’s beyond redemption.”

Coun. Sandra Lyon asked if there is enough space in the building with current staffing needs. Her concern was that spending

any more money on the building when the space is already full could be a waste of money.

Bonnett added that the roof repairs, planned

for this year, will find unexpected issues with the building.

Before taking a vote on the administration’s request, council introduced

Ready for action: Six of the seven new recruits at the Ponoka Fire Department pose in their new gear at the Fire Hall Monday, Aug. 17. This was the first day of training for the new firefighters. From left to right are: Jaden Squires, Jent Hoekstra, Mark Pischke, Kevin McKenzie, Mike Stevens and Derek Braun. Missing is Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye Allen Horne.

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12 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Town partners with Ponoka Chamber

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

Town council agreed to a two-year contract for the Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce to rent out the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex for its annual trade fair.

The decision was made Tuesday, Aug. 11 during the regular meeting after council received a letter from the chamber seeking in-kind

contributions as the town had ended formal funding to the chamber.

President Jim Hamilton said in his letter that the trade fair and the annual business awards were the two areas the chamber was looking at.

“This is our showcase event, which serves to have vendors display their goods and services while at the same time selling and mak-

ing connections for the future,” said Hamilton of the fair.

For the business awards, Hamilton said the chamber uses the Kinsmen Community Centre and is designed to honour the best businesses in Ponoka and district.

Coun. Marc Yaworski was in favour of allowing the chamber to use the arena for five years and in exchange for the rental of the

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Coun. Carla Prediger proposed to have the agreement for two years, to which Yaworski agreed.

A suggestion was made to include the Kinsmen Community Centre as well but CAO Rachel Kunz recommended against that. She said as town staff would be moving to new offices in

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the fall, they needed to keep their options open.

“Relatives of council members and the CAO can only be hired into temporary or casual employment roles.”

Proposed policy for employment of relatives of town leadership

Council wants clarification on nepotism policy A proposed policy on hiring relatives at the Town of Ponoka has been sent back to administration for review.

A request to approve the Employment of Relatives policy was turned down by council after some questions on the wording.

Kunz said the town needed to be up to date with current provincial employment standards.

Coun. Tim Falkiner suggested if the policy is approved, the town may be putting itself in a position of liability.

“Relatives of council members and the CAO can only be hired into tempo-

rary or casual employment roles,” is one of the procedures in the proposed policy called into question.

Coun. Prediger suggested the policy could work but needed to exclude council in a staff related policy where a person cannot be hired if they are related to a councillor.

Mayor Rick Bonnett said that some companies allow the hiring of relatives as long as they do not work directly with each other.

Falkiner added he does not feel there are issues if there is no direct supervision or hiring of a relative.

The policy will return to council during a committee of the whole meeting for further discussion.

First reading passed for airport board Council approved first reading of a bylaw to establish a Ponoka Industrial Airport Board.

This board would work within the scope of the airport business plan and will guide the economic development of the Ponoka Industrial Airport.

Kunz said as the airport grows so will the need for a manager. “The management position is as the airport grows and the funding comes in to pay for the management position.”

The decision to pass first reading, which will allow for discussions with the community and stakeholders, was unanimous.

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PONOKA NEWS 13

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Landowners called on to help improve the health of the Battle River SUBMITTED

Ponoka Riparian Restoration Program, launched last spring, is still appealing for landowners within the Ponoka County to become partners and receive funding in projects aimed at improving the health of the Battle River and its tributary streams.

Sarah Skinner, program coordinator said there were currently two projects under implementation that involve fencing along the Battle River and installing livestock watering systems.

“When livestock water directly from the river, they can cause damage to the riparian area by trampling vegetation and increasing the amount of bare soil,” Skinner said.

“By removing livestock from the riverbank and providing them with an alternate water source, vegetation is able to bounce back and filter water as it flows off the surrounding land. This helps provide cleaner water to landowners and communities downstream.

“In addition, watering systems are able to provide cleaner drinking water for livestock. This improves weight gain in livestock, as well as their overall health.”

The program is providing funding to landowners that become partners in the program with the only condition to apply being ownership of land along the Battle River.

“An important first step in improving the health of the Battle River is to understand our starting point.

How healthy or unhealthy is the river right now?” asked Skinner. “The health of the riparian area (the green zone of vegetation along waterways) is extremely important to water quality and fish populations in the river.”

The BRWA is working with Cows and Fish to conduct riparian health assessments to measure the current health of the Battle River’s riparian areas. “If any unhealthy areas are identified, we can look at potential actions that would help improve the health

of those areas.” Skinner explained. Eight riparian health assessments will be carried out along the Battle River in the Ponoka region this summer, and additional funding is available to do more next year. Landowners interested in having an assessment done on their land can contact the BRWA for more information.

“We’re also excited to have some hands-on landowner projects getting underway this summer,” Skinner said of the two projects already underway.

“If we’re able to reduce the human and animal footprint in the riparian area, natural vegetation is able to bounce back and help filter water as it flows off the surrounding land. This is good news for landowners and communities downstream, as well as for fish populations and the health of the river as a whole.”

Interested landowners in Ponoka County with land along the Battle River or its tributary streams are encouraged to contact the BRWA at 1-888-672-0276 for more information or to apply for funding,

Proposed projects are aimed preventing livestock from watering directly from the Battle River in an effort to save both vegetation on the banks and the fish stocks.

Submitted photo

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2015 Property Taxes Are Due Please be reminded that Lacombe County property taxes are due on or before August 31, 2015. Payments made by mail will be considered to be paid on the same date as the envelope is postmarked.

A penalty of 6% will be added on September 1, 2015 for all taxes remaining unpaid after August 31, 2015. An additional 10 per cent penalty will be added on December 1, 2015 for all taxes unpaid after November 30, 2015.

The August 31 deadline and penalties are not applicable to property owners currently enrolled in our monthly Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP).

If you have not received a tax notice, please contact the County office at (403) 782-6601.

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14 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Are we hyped up enough for another election?

Mike Rainone Hammertime

Here we go again into another election, one that will this time feature tow and a half torrid months of red hot campaigning, all sorts of promises, and the usual barrage of verbal shots and exchanges on the way to choosing our next members to the House of Commons of the Parliament of our Canada. This 42nd Canadian general election has been set for

Monday, Oct. 19, 2015 so that all of the parties and their candidates will have lots of time to prepare their platforms to present to all of our mostly frustrated taxpayers, and then hopefully conduct a spirited but honest and open campaign.

Of course, as always many questions and concerns will have to be answered before all the ballots can be cast and counted. These could include: Is the ‘Harper Ship’ startling to flounder in the rough and Duffy waters; is the young and Liberal Justin Trudeau following in his father’s flamboyant ‘fuddle duddle’ footsteps; is Mr. Mulcair ready to lead and the take the fastmoving ‘NDP wave’ all the way across Canada; and does the Bloc, the Green, The Strength in Democracy, and all the rest of the eligible parties have a chance of grabbing a seat or two on Parliament Hill this time around?

Many people across

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our nation are already asking if we can really afford an election in these tough economic times, and what plans this newly elected ‘power team’ will have in place to fix the current precarious state of the union and the Loonie before this great nation of ours falls to far down in the world’s ‘teeter-tooter’ financial standings. Isn’t it about time that instead of all the before and after election bickering and back-benching from province to province that our federal government must start working a little closer together to stabilize our nation’s economy and deal head on with the vital issues of health, education, infrastructure and all the rest of which they are responsible for. From the ongoing and vital subject of oil, why can’t they get busy and promote some pipelines running across Canada instead of spending millions chasing the age-old ‘pipe-dream’ into the United States, as well

as passionately pooling and promoting more of our amazing resources and talents together to market and share with the rest of the world on the way to assuring a bright future for our vibrant present and future generations from sea-to-sea and border to border?

Whatever the case, all of our nation’s political parties will have now chosen their candidates for this current federal election race, the posters will go up on every street corner, and the forums and coffee chatter will go hot and heavy in every electoral constituency across our nation. In just 60 days, it will be up to each and every eligible voter in Canada to make the most important choice of our leaders for the next four years, and while the east will get an early start at the ballot boxes, let’s get out and make the prairies heard at the polls like never before.. By the way, just for our information, the results of the last federal election in 2011 realized an overall voter turnout of 61.1 per cent of the eligible voters, with Alberta

placing 10th with 56.4 per cent showing up at the polls, and what a great opportunity it is to be able to exercise our freedom of choice.

Now let’s have a little fun • A young man was visiting his pretty blonde girlfriend when she surprised him with the presentation of her two new puppies. After petting the fluffy little critters, he asked her what she had named them, and she proudly replied with the names ROLEX and TIMEX., to which the guy quickly asked, ‘Whoever heard of someone naming dogs like that?’

The young lady quite abruptly answered.....

‘What-eeeeeeever...... they’re WATCH DOGS. • The six best doctors are: Fresh air, exercise, water, rest, good diet and sunshine, and they are all absolutely free with no appointment required.

• The worst thing about growing old is listening to your children’s advice. There’s not

Alberta Fish and Game news SUBMITTED BY ROBERT GREENE PUBLICITY CHAIRMAN

Here it is just about the middle of August. Where has our summer gone in such a short time? We are through with our kids’ camp for this year. We had a full house again for camp and the kids had a great time and learned things that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Alberta Fish and Game, provincewide, is one of the oldest conservation education organizations in Alberta. We, as a club, have lots of qualified instructors to carry out our programs, not only for the kids, but adults as well.

We, at the present, are 800 members strong at the Ponoka club and we are still growing. As you can see, it takes a lot of management to keep everything on an even keel; not as easy as it looks, but we have good executives to bear the headaches.

Sure it has been a hot dry summer and a very busy one as we are making improvements at our different properties.

It takes a lot of time and funds to keep

everything going. We have many volunteers and sponsors which helps cut down on project costs.

Our summer activities of trap shooting, archery, rifle and pistol shooting are going great. A reminder to all who shoot; the range rules must be followed to the maximum.

The past winter was not too severe on our wildlife, so there should be an abundance of older and younger this fall. Hope everyone got their draws in on time. My hunting group has a few tags, so now we have to see if we can fill them. No matter if you get them all filled or not, it is still great to be out in the fields and forests.

Keep your eyes open and you will see the best nature has to offer Labor Day weekend is our Rifleman’s Rodeo at the club which we host every year, so come on out and sharpen your shooting skill and get ready for hunting season. The dates this year for the Rodeo are September 4,5, 6 and 7. Gates open at 3 p.m. on Sept. 4 for those who want to come and set up your campers.

See you at the Rodeo

403-963-6789 (Gjenna Saretsky)

403-963-6789 (Gjenna Wiancko) Saretsky) 403-704-5207 (Anne-Alisa 403-704-5207 (Anne-Alisa Wiancko)

much wrong with the younger generation that becoming a parent and a taxpayer won’t cure.

• Sure signs which make some of us realize that we may be getting a little older. The first thing in the morning we still love to rise and shine, but just not at the same time. Many of us so fondly remember as children when we loved the sound of snap-crackle and pop from our cereal bowl, but that is often now coming from our body when we get out of bed. When we were our grandchildren’s age, we had to get up and walk over to the TV to change the channel, but now they have to get up and search all over the house to try and find one of the three remotes.

Don’t forget to take the whole family to the Ponoka Agricultural Fair on Aug. 21 and 22 at the Ponoka Legion, stop to smell the roses and taste the treats, and have a great week, all of you.

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ON NOW AT YOUR ALBERTA GMC DEALERS. AlbertaGMC.com 1-800-GM-DRIVE. GMC is a brand of General Motors of Canada. Offers apply to the finance of a 2015 Terrain SLE-1 AWD, Acadia SLE-1 FWD, Sierra 1500 Crew Cab 1SA. License, insurance, registration, administration fees, dealer fees, PPSA and taxes not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited time offers which may not be combined with other offers, and are subject to change without notice. Offers apply to qualified retail customers in Alberta GMC Dealer Marketing Association area only. Dealer order or trade may be required. * Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada for vehicles delivered between July 30 and August 31, 2015. 0% purchase financing offered on approved credit

by TD Auto Finance Services, Scotiabank® or RBC Royal Bank for 84 months on select new or demonstrator 2015 GMC vehicles excluding Yukon, Yukon XL, Sierra 2500 HD Diesel, Savana, Canyon 2SA and Canyon 4x4. Participating lenders are subject to change. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and/or security deposit may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: For the purchase price of $35,995 for the Sierra 1500 Crew Cab 1SA includes a $2,000 manufacturer to dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive)/$30,421 for the Terrain AWD/$37,381 for the Acadia FWD at 0% APR, the biweekly payment is $185/$155/$189 for 84 months; cost of borrowing is $0, total obligation is $35,995/$30,421/$37,381, down payment is $2,300/$2,150/$2,950. Offer is unconditionally interest-free. Freight, air tax ($100, if applicable) included. License, insurance, registration, PPSA/movable property registry fees, applicable taxes and dealer fees not included. Dealers may sell for less. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. ¥ Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any model year 1999 or newer car that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit valid towards the retail purchase or finance of one eligible 2015 model year GMC SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between July 30, 2015 through August 31, 2015. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive) and credit value depends on model purchased: $750 credit available on eligible GMC vehicles (except Canyon 2SA); $1,000 credit available on all GMC Sierras. Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any Pontiac/Saturn/SAAB/ Hummer/Oldsmobile model year 1999 or newer car or Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR, Avalanche, Aveo, Epica, Orlando, Optra, Tracker, Uplander, Venture, Astro, Blazer, Trailblazer or GMC Envoy, Jimmy, Safari or Buick Rendezvous, Terraza that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit valid towards the retail purchase or finance of one eligible 2015 model year GMC SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between July 30, 2015 through August 31, 2015. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive): $1,500 credit available on eligible GMC vehicles (except Canyon 2SA). Offer is transferable to a family member living within the same household (proof of address required). As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada Limited (GMCL) to verify eligibility. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Certain limitations or conditions apply. Void where prohibited. See your GMCL dealer for details. GMCL reserves the right to amend or terminate offers for any reason in whole or in part at any time without prior notice. Offer valid until August 31, 2015. See dealer for details. ‡‡ $1,000 finance cash offer is a manufacturer to dealer credit (tax exclusive) for a 2015 Sierra, Terrain, which is available for finance offers only and cannot be combined with special lease rates and cash purchase. ** Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) New Car Assessment Program (www.SaferCar.gov). + Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded 2015 Terrain the 2015 Top Safety Pick Award when equipped with available forward collision alert.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015 PONOKA NEWS 15

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16 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Back to regular programs in September

BY JACLYN BERRY

With September fast approaching, our regular programs are set to return.

We want to take a moment to remind you about them, and let you know about our

new ones. Check out: Story time - Starting Monday, Sept.14, Story Time runs a new program every Monday and Friday morning at 11 a.m. Aimed

towards children ages three to six and their parents, Story Time introduces young children to the library and a love of reading through stories, crafts and

403-783-8881 #3, 5012-48 Ave

RIZWAN SYED Associate

TAMARACK COURT

!

LD

SO

$174,300

W NE

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CHANELLE LYON Associate

NORTH END

Enjoy all the conveniences just steps away! Walk to the grocery store, drug stores, library, banking, restaurants, maybe work is close by for you. Great for working professional who doesn’t have time for maintenance.

RIVERSIDE (PANORAMA RIDGE)

in the Wedin’s Prof. Bldg.

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RIVERSIDE

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

Located in the north end of Ponoka.

$220,000

RIVERSIDE (PANORAMA RIDGE)

Brand new near completion show home with upgraded contemporary finish. 2 bed, 2 full baths, living & den on main floor with deck. Triple att’d garage, cul de sac. 1364 Sq. Ft. MLS CA0064935 Call Rizwan 403-783-0898

W NE

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Newly dev’d fully serviced subdivision. Outstanding views of Battle River valley & town. Walk out basement possible. Corner lot, cul de sac, ready for immediate possession.

MLS CA0064899 Call Rizwan 403-783-0898

Large family home with all living space on the main floor. Large living room with woodstove, 3 bdrms + an office, as well as large family room with woodburning fireplace.

Over 2100 sq.ft. all on an oversized lot.

RIVERSIDE D CE

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End unit town house backing onto the park. 2 bed with 2 ensuite baths & a half bath, walk in closet.

Less than 5 min. walk away from grocery & gas. Near Centennial Center & golf course. MLS CA0058501 Call Rizwan 403-783-0898

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

games. This is a drop-in activity; no registration or payment is required.

Family Lego club – Family LEGO Club is starting back up on Friday Sept. 4, from 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Come build whatever your imagination can come up with. All LEGO/Duplo will be provided by the library, and the masterpieces will be put on display for all to see. Regular meetings are every second Friday. This is a drop-in activity; no registration or payment is required.

Book club – The library book club will be having their first meeting after a summer hiatus on Sunday Sept. 13, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the library. The September book is Burnt Shadows by Kamila Shamsi, and copies are available at the library now. New members are always welcome. Regular meetings are the first Sunday of every month, unless changed due to a holiday weekend (such as September).

M A K E R S PAC E (New program) – Maker-

space is our newest regular program at the library.

Makerspaces are creative spaces where people gather to create, invent and learn.

Our Makerspace is full of cool technology items like Raspberry Pi, Makey Makey, Little Bits kits and Intuous tablets. Our first Makerspace meeting will be Thursday, Sept. 24 from 3:30 to 5 p.m., and regular meetings will be held the last Thursday of each month. This activity is for ages 12+ due to the fragility of some items, and is drop-in; no registration or payment required.

Besides our regular programs, we are also excited to announce that Kate A. Boorman, Alberta Readers’ Choice Award nominee will be coming to the library on Saturday, Sept. 19 at 12 p.m. Kate will be coming to discuss her award nominated book Winterkill, as well as do a Q&A with participants.

Come on down to meet one of Alberta’s up and coming writers. continued on page 18

6000 - 48 Ave.

(Beside The Old Iron Horse Restaurant)

real estate central alberta GORGEOUS CUSTOM HOME! REDUCED

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- 2486 sq. ft. 1 ½ storey - Open design /w lrg windows - 4 bdrm, 4 bath, main flr laundry - Great kitchen with large island & granite - Incredible landscaping incls putting green $649,900 ~ Call Todd to view

- 1374 sq. ft. bungalow in newer area - Close to hhospital & school - Beautiful open floor plan - Large fam family / Rec. room - 2nd garage, garag heated w/ parking area

SOLD

$389,000 ~ Call Bob ALIX PROPERTY NEW PRICE

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

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NEW LISTIN

- 945 sq. ft., 4 bdrms, 2 baths - Large fen fenced yard with double ggarage - Many cos costly updates done!

EXCELLENT SUBDIVISION - 4 lots available in beautiful area - Serviced & ready to build on - Priced to Sell - New on the Market! $69,900 ~ $80,500 ~ Call Bob FAMILY HOME

- 4-Level Split - 5 B/R, 2 Bath - Numerous Upgrades - Corner Lot - Double Detached Garage - Gardener’s Dream

GREAT STARTER OR REVENUE! - Over 2000 developed sq. ft.

- 4 Bdrms, 3 baths - Double attached garage - Fenced Yard - Downstairs suite

$220,000 ~ Call Lisa

$624,900 – Call Jane

Associate

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- 2000+ sq ft with 3 beds & 3 baths - Located in Wolf Creek Estates

$600,000 – Call Jane

- Beautiful 1929 sq. ft. 1½ storey - 3 bdrms, 3 baths - Relaxing hot tub room - Amazing view and yard amenities - Triple garage - Located on .8 acres at Johnson’s Beach

JANE WIERZBA Associate

DEB STEVENS Assoc. Broker

METICULOUS PROPERTY G

NEW LISTIN

- 4 Bdrms & 3 Baths; Fully finished - Deck w Patio doors - NEW shingles - Double detached garage & shed - Well maintained home in quiet area

NEWER HALF-DUPLEX NEW PRICE

- 3 Bedrooms - 2 Baths - Open Floor Plan - Fully Fenced, with Deck $215,000 ~ Call Deb

GORGEOUS SOLID HOME! - 4 bedrooms, 2 baths

- Over 2600 sq. ft.

- Many upgrades up done - Double ggarage - Low maintenance ma yard

- 1588 sq ft with 4 beds & 3 baths - Located in Wolf Ridge Estates

$739,900 – Call Jane

- 8.3 acres on pavement - 1390 sq. ft. home

$519,000 ~ Call Todd

IN TOWN ACREAGE

- 5.6 acres, S of stampede grounds - 1382 sqft 2-Storey, 4 bdrms/ 1 bath - 26 x 40 garage & Barn - 48 x 96 heated shop w/ 2 furnaces - Well treed & completely fenced - Great Opportunity in town!! $450,000 ~ Call Bob

SPRUCE MEADOWS ACREAGE - 2 acres - Reversed Hillside Bungalow - 1350 sq ft - 3 B/R, 3 Baths - Private Setting - Lacombe/Ponoka Bussing

559,000 Call Deb AFFORDABLE BARE ACREAGE! - Lone Tree Estates (Gull Lake)

- 2.61 acres - Gorgeous Lake View!

- Bargain Basement Price!

$87,900 ~ Call Lisa

$284,900 ~ Call Lisa PRESTIGIOUS LIVING!

Associate

- 20x12 workshop, 28x28 garage

SOLD NEW PRICE

LISA SMITH

- 3 bdrm, 3 bath, fully finished

$239,900 ~ Call Bob

$226,900 ~ Call Lisa ON THE GOLF COURSE

TODD REED

Assoc. Broker

$550,000 ~ Call Todd to view

$269,000 Call Deb

SOLD

WELCOME TO LUXURY! - Nearly 5000 sq. ft. with 7 beds & 4 baths - Beautifully maintained & upgraded

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

BOB TILTGEN

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$39,900 Call Deb FANTASTIC UPGRADED BUNGALOW - Solid bungalow in great location

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

www.ponokaproperties.com

PONOKA NEWS 17

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Circus brings fun for kids

From balls to sticks to rings to hats, the circus performer juggled almost everything during the afternoon performance of the Family Fun Circus at the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Centre on Friday, Aug. 14.

Photo by Mustafa Eric

6000 • 48 Ave, Ponoka

NEW LISTINGS THIS WEEK! GREAT HOME! GREAT LOCATION! GREAT VALUE!

BY MUSTAFA ERIC

Family Fun Circus, a Florida-based American entertainment troupe, stopped by in Ponoka on Friday, Aug. 14 on their way to Wetaskiwin from Rimbey, as part of their tour in Alberta, providing much fun and entertainment to kids, most of them aged two to nine.

Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex bleachers were full of cheering kids with their parents trying to have them stay put both before and during the performance of the circus acts during the two afternoon performances, which lasted a little over an hour.

The performances featured some basic circus numbers including some acrobatics, small animal acts, juggler and a clown.

Circus clown and spokesperson Maiumbi Ndao said they had already been in Canada for more than a month and they had also spent some time in Alaska before

• 1249 sq ft with 4 beds & 3 baths • Open, functional floor plan • Fully developed basement

318,500 Call Jane

$

AFFORDABLE CHARACTER HOME!

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starting their Alberta tour.

He described the reaction to their performances as “amazing” and thought

they had really given the opportunity to have some rare kind of fun to the communities they visited.

It’s EASY being GREEN GREEN,

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6 acreages available. Beautiful building sites just a short drive south of Ponoka in Jada Estates. Building restricitons REDUCED PRICE make this property an exclusive Call Wayne area for upscale homes.

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Speed skater faces loss at nationals competition Page 23

NITY CONNE CTING THE COMMU

S.COM | EDITORIAL@PONOKANEW , JAN. 22, 2014 | 403-783-3311 Vol. 66, No. 4 | WEDNESDAY

Calumet Curling Club celebrates 60 years Page 14

Reflections of Ponoka A life dedicated to sports, family, and community Story on page 5

Rainbow face

durWilla Loveseth gets her face painted ing Family Day festivities at the Ponoka Feb. Culture and Recreation Complex 17. There were many events throughout 8.

Ponoka. Photos can be seen on page Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

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

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26 ACRES SE of Ponoka, 1916 sq. ft. home with additional large detached garage. 40 X 78 shop.

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18 PONOKA NEWS

Regular programs

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

continued from page 16 We’re also looking forward to taking part in Ponoka Day in the Park. On Friday, Aug. 28, starting at 1 p.m. at Centennial Park, come

take part in kids’ activities (we’ll be reading stories), watch a town vs. county tug-o-war and pie eating contest, have a picnic while enjoying some cultural entertainment, and end the day off with a

movie in the park, ‘Epic’ will be shown starting at 8 p.m. It’s a great way to have a last hoorah before school starts, and free for all to attend. For more information go to ponoka.ca.

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PONOKA NEWS 19

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Panspermia and the Drake Equation: Looking good

Gwynne Dyer Think Globally One by one, the empty boxes in the Drake Equation are being filled in with actual numbers, and it’s looking good. So good that Yuri Milner is spending $100 million of his own money over the next ten years to fund the search for non-human civilisations orbiting other stars. But it’s a pity that the Philae lander from the European Space Agency’s Rosetta mission didn’t have more time to look for life on Comet 67P/ChuryumovGerasimenko.

Yuri Milner is a Silicon Valley billionaire who was working on a PhD in theoretical physics at the Russian Academy of Sciences before he moved to the United States and got rich. His money will buy thousands of hours of radiotelescope time each year to look for radio transmissions from other star systems.

This represents at least a tenfold increase in the amount of work being done on finding intelligent life elsewhere in the galaxy, and Yuri Milner is no fool. Why does he think it’s worth spending this money now?

Probably because the Drake Equation is finally coming into its own. It has seven terms, and American astronomer Frank Drake could not give a value to any of them when he first wrote it in 1961. It was just a formula that would let us estimate the number of civilisations in the Milky Way galaxy when the relevant data eventually became

available.

To fill in the first three terms, we needed to know how many stars there are in the galaxy, how many of them have planets, and how many of those planets are in the “habitable zone” where liquid water can exist.

In 1961 the estimate was 100 billion stars. Now it is 400 billion, of which 300 billion are essentially similar to our Sun. Until 1992, we didn’t even know if other stars had planets circling them. Now we can estimate that at least 40 percent of them do, although the real answer may be almost all of them. (We still cannot detect planets much smaller than Earth.)

As for how many planets are in the “habitable” zone, not too close or too far from their parent star, the answer is probably one or two per star.

Using the data acquired in the past twenty years, NASA now estimates that there are 144 billion habitable planets in our galaxy.

Not all of them will harbour life, of course, but that is a very encouraging number.

Other questions remain, however. How many “habitable” planets will actually have life on them? On how many of those planets will an intelligent species appear? How many of those intelligent species will build civilisations that use electromagnetic communications?

And how long, on average, would those high-tech civilisations last?

We don’t yet know the answers to any of those questions, but we do know that organic compounds are common even in interstellar space, and that they are continuously raining on our own planet. So the standard assumption is that they somehow combined on Earth to form the first single-celled creatures, and evolution did the rest.

But if it were easy for those organic compounds to combine into complex microbes and viruses, then you would expect it to have happened here a number of times. There would be several or many unrelated genetic lineages on Earth – and there aren’t. All life here

has a common ancestor.

So it must be very rare for life to develop spontaneously. If it actually happened here, it would mean that we are a miracle, and pretty much alone in the galaxy.

But maybe the miracle happened on another of those 144 billion planets, billions of years ago, and life been spreading through the galaxy ever since – not as alien beings on starships, but as microbes and viruses on meteorites and comets.

This is the “panspermia” hypothesis, first proposed by astronomers Sir Fred Hoyle and Dr Chandra Wickramasinghe in 1974. Dissatisfied with the notion that Earth was unique, they suggested that not only organic compounds but actual microbes and viruses could travel through interstellar space, dormant but still viable in the liquid water that they suspected was present in the interior of many comets.

It sounds weird, but it is just as plausible as the rival hypothesis of an independent origin of life on Earth. Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko was the first-ever opportunity to see if this hypothesis holds water (so to speak). The Philae lander did detect sixteen different organic molecules as it bounced along the comet’s surface, but it ended up in the shadows without power to pursue its investigations further.

Pity, but there’ll be another comet along in a while.

And if it turns out that Hoyle and Wickramasinghe were right, then most of those 144 billion planets will have life on them. The history of evolution on earth tends always to greater complexity, so a fair proportion of them would have intelligent life on them.

How many of them have high-tech civilisations on them at the moment, of course, depends on how long the average technological civilisation survives. Our own hi-tech civilisation has survived, so far, for about one century.

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

Young students with diabetes should get equal treatment A supportive school environment is critically important for keeping children with diabetes safe and healthy

BY JAN HUX TROY MEDIA COLUMNIST

For parents of kids with diabetes, the beginning of each new school year brings not only the usual preparations, but also fears for their child’s health and safety. This is especially true if their school or school district does not have a policy to ensure staff are knowledgeable about diabetes, know how to prevent emergencies, and are able to assist students with daily diabetes tasks.

Type 1 diabetes affects more than 34,000 Canadian children under the age of 19; another 1,800 have Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is when the body is unable to produce insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar. It has no known cause or cure and usually begins in childhood, and is the most common diabetes in children.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common among all people with the disease, where the body either cannot effectively use or produce enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes usually develops in adulthood, although more children and adolescents are being diagnosed.

Most students can manage their diabetes independently or with minimal support, and they can fully participate in school activities, including gym, field trips and celebrations. However, some, especially very young children with Type 1 diabetes, may need trained personnel to help administer insulin, monitor blood sugar levels or supervise food intake and activity. Students with diabetes may also need flexibility in school rules to prevent low or high blood

sugar, and, in some cases, may also need help with recognizing “lows” and “highs.”

A supportive school environment is critically important for keeping children with diabetes safe and healthy.

Proper diabetes management reduces the risk of life-threatening emergencies, prevents or reduces the risk of serious long-term complications, such as heart disease, limb amputation, kidney failure and blindness, and ensures that students with diabetes are able to learn and participate fully in school activities. Yet only five provinces have guidelines for children with diabetes at school: Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Quebec and British Columbia.

Ontario recently formed a working group to address this issue and other jurisdictions have signaled their interest in forming such policies. At the school-board level, some boards and even individual schools have developed policies, leading to a patchwork of different care standards among school districts, and even among schools in the same district. Many schools and districts have no diabetes policies in place at all.

It is important that all children with diabetes be afforded the same protections and given the same opportunities to succeed, no matter where they live or attend school.

It is a team effort to enhance the health, safety, emotional well-being and participation of each student with diabetes.

Everyone has a role in the care of the student to ensure a safe

and healthy school experience.

Parents and guardians need to notify the school of the diagnosis and meet with the school to develop an Individual Care Plan (ICP) so the necessary supports are arranged. School personnel need to participate in annual diabetes education, training and resource review to learn how to manage diabetes, including emergency procedures. Healthcare providers act as resources to the schools and assist in creating the student’s ICP. But perhaps, most importantly, our provincial governments need to make proper diabetes management at school a priority.

Every province and territory should establish clear standards of care that school boards can follow to ensure the safety, health and optimal education for children with diabetes.

In the interim, school boards can begin the process of creating pragmatic guidelines such as those outlined by the Canadian Diabetes Association so that diabetes care across regions is equitable, safe and organized.

Clear and consistent policies are better for the schools, better for families and provide an open and transparent process for communities to work with.

Everyone should also work to prevent students with diabetes from experiencing stigma and discrimination by promoting a positive, caring and inclusive learning environment through communication, education and cooperation.

Dr. Jan Hux is an expert adviser with EvidenceNetwork. ca and Chief Science Officer for the Canadian Diabetes Association.

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20 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Farmers Market celebrates 39 years of activity

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

There was free cake, coffee and musical entertainment for shoppers at last Wednesday’s Ponoka Farmers’ Market as organizers celebrated 39 years of business.

Market manager Donna Merrill was speaking on Aug. 12 when she said she had been with the organization for almost the same amount of time.

“I’ve been here for 33 years. Where’s the time gone, I always say,” she joked.

While none of the original vendors are at the market, there are many more new vendors and shoppers who come every week. “It is picking up. A lot of younger people are showing up,” Merrill said.

She said new incentives such as using Facebook to promote their goals have also helped increase foot traffic and an increase in vendors who attend.

“We have all the vendors posted on Facebook,” said Merrill.

“Some of the new vendors that are here, they found out about it on Facebook,” added Rose Godley, vice-president of the board.

The addition of these new incentives has created a friendly environment that organizers enjoy.

“It’s always nice to see new people here,” stated Godley.

Other programs the market has initiated recently has been to host a 50/50 draw for different community groups. July’s initiative

Ponoka Legion prepares for Flags of Remembrance tribute

was for the Ponoka Hospital Auxiliary with a donation of $469.

Merrill says the Seafield Social Workers are the focus for August and the Ponoka Youth Centre is the focus for September.

Ponoka Stampede week is also a busy time for the group and extending the hours of the market to 5 p.m. helped increase foot traffic.

The rodeo would finish at approximately 4 p.m. and attendees would make their way to the market.

An average of 110 tables were booked at those times and Merrill said they intend to increase the hours until 5 or 6 p.m. next Stampede.

Another area the market tries to entice visitors is a gift card draw for customers. There is a weekly door prize with a gift card to the vendor of choice for shoppers and Merrill said it has helped bring people through the doors.

Kurt Von Grad of Steven Dans Fresh B.C. Fruit and customer Dolores Morrow have a hearty bargaining session for fruit Wednesday, Aug. 12 at the Farmers Market 39 anniversary market. Organizers provided free cake and coffee to shoppers.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

Members of the Ponoka Legion have joined forces with five other Canadian legions bringing remembrance through the use of Canadian flags.

Called the Veterans Voices of Canada – Flags of Remembrance, the event will bring flags in a tribute to Canada’s veterans and for the Ponoka area, will be placed along Highway 2A, says Ponoka Legion member Stan Baliant.

“On Oct. 17 there will be 116 flags erected somewhere on Highway 2A. Each flag represents 100,000 people that lost their lives in the three wars,” said Baliant.

A sunrise ceremony will be held on the morning of the Oct. 17 and when the flags come down after Remembrance Day, he added. Baliant said flags can be sponsored by families of veterans in remembrance of a loved one or from other groups.

Sponsors will receive a special plaque with information they previously provided to the organizers. Forms can be found at their local legions and Baliant said there is a deadline of Monday, Aug. 31 to submit information and payment.

This is the first year the Ponoka Legion is taking part in the tribute and Baliant’s hope is to see strong support.

“Now will have a month of remembrance, because with 116 flags people will drive by every day.”

The location for Ponoka’s tribute is still to be determined.

The other legions taking part in the tribute are Sylvan Lake, Kelowna, B.C; Kingston, Ont.; Amherst, N.S. and Charlottetown, P.E.I.

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PONOKA NEWS 21

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Despite rain, long-ear enthusiasts have fun at annual event

BY MUSTAFA ERIC

People with a love of the long-eared kind of the equine species gathered once again at Tees rodeo grounds over the weekend of Aug. 15 and 16 to celebrate their affection for the animals and had fun with activities involving competitions and shows.

Ross Shandro, president of the Alberta Mule and Donkey Club, which organizes the annual gathering during the third weekend of August, said this year’s event had seen a lot of participation cancelled due to rain, which stole from the fun of the event.

“We had 28 participants this year, 21 mules and eight donkeys,” said Shandro.

Most of the donkeys were of the miniature kind and there was one what is called “mammoth” donkey doing the rounds, going through mazes and swerving through cones to show their talents of finding and taking direction from the drivers of the carts.

While the love for horses is widespread and well known, Shandro said long eared cousins of horses are

no less clever and loveable.

He quoted the legendary American horse trainer Tom Dorrence as saying “A mule isn’t considered stupid, he is just waiting for his handler to figure out what the handler should be doing.”

He added that, as a 33year owner of mules, he had won competitions as a healer in team roping events riding his mule as well as earning titles in trail and obstacle competitions.

According to Shandro, the loveable nature of the long-eared animals has not gone unnoticed by people.

One example is Patrice Paisley, an MS patient, who has got a donkey just a year ago and is finding it very enjoyable to take care of her miniature donkey.

“It’s a blast,” said Paisley when asked about her ownership of Annabelle, her donkey.

“She eats very little and needs very little care,” she added.

It is noted that lovers of mules and donkeys come from all walks of life: The mammoth donkey owner at last weekend’s event is a pilot flying STARS helicopters.

Patrice Paisley is finishing the trail with her miniature donkey Annabelle in 1’ 35”, 20 seconds ahead of the closest rival to win the top prize in their category at Tees rodeo grounds on Sunday, Aug. 16.

Photo by Mustafa Eric

The fall back questions

Brennan Taylor FarmLead

Wednesday, Aug. 12, was a day that many in the grain trade will remember for at least the next six months. Why? The U.S.D.A. came out with their August W.A.S.D.E. report that completely blew most expectations out of the water as to where supply for the 2015/16 year sat.

Instead of U.S. corn and soybean yields dropping to 164.5 and 44.7 bu/ac respectively like the market estimated, the U.S.D.A. actually raised them to 168.8 bu/ac and 46.9 bu/ac. Bear

in mind (pun intended) that the last time there was a wet summer like this in America (2010), the U.S.D.A. raised their corn yield by 1.5 bu/ac from July to August, then dropped the August number by 9.2 bu/ac in October, and then that October number was felled by another 3 bu/ ac in January! There’s a lot of questions about method-

ologies, since the numbers are hard to add up. For example, the portion of U.S. soybeans rated good-toexcellent the week of the report were seven per cent lower than a year ago, yet the yield predicted a year ago was 45.4 bu/ac, while in this report, it’s literally 1.5 bu/ac higher. Huh? Digging in, corn pro-

duction was raised to 13.7 billion bushels and 2015/16 ending stocks to 1.7( billion bushels, partially in thanks to possible record yields

in six of the top 12 cornproducing states in America (specifically, IA, NE, SD, MN, MI, and WI). continued on page 22

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22 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Celebrating 103 years: Family and friends took part in Jessie Schweitzer’s (seated in the centre) 103rd birthday Saturday, Aug. 15 at Northcott Care Centre. Schweitzer has been a resident of Ponoka for approximately 77 years.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

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The fall back questions continued from page 21 Globally, production fell 1.5 million tonnes thanks to Europe’s heat problems but consumption also declined.

For soybeans, U.S. production was raised to 3.916 Billion bushels, with domestic ending stocks sitting at 475 million bushels. Globally, demand

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bushels (the largest since 2010/11), despite the U.S. crop being lower than expected (albeit record hard red spring wheat yields are being called for in North Dakota). Globally, wheat production is projected at another record of 726.55 million tonnes, thanks to better-than-expected Black Sea harvests.

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remains relatively strong as world ending stocks is seen falling almost five million tonnes from July’s W.A.S.D.E. to 86.9 million tonnes, partially because China’s imports were raised yet again, this time to 79 million tonnes, up 1.5 million from last month. In wheat, U.S. ending stocks were raised to 850 million

Drop-ins welcome at all events.

Sept. 12 - First jam session 1pm. Donations (cash or food) for Ponoka Food Bank.

Sept. 20 - 7 pm Gospel Concert with Steve Potter & Strings n’ Things. $5 at the door Sept. 25 - 5:3pm Potluck & General Meeting. Bring a dish to share, table service & enjoy good company.

PONOKA ART CLUB CLASSES Sept. 12 - Acrylic “In E J Hughes style” 10am to 4pm - Willie Wong.

Sept. 19 - “Watercolor Landscapes” Frances Alty-Arscott Contact Lyla Langford 403-783-1887 or Bernice Edwards 403-783-6858 Billiards - Weekdays 1:00pm. Mon through Sat – 50 cents per game. Honour system Monday Bridge 1:00pm Monday Whist - 1:30pm Monday Yoga - 6:30pm Tuesday - 10am to 2pm “Circle of Friends Senior Support Program” Contact: Angela 403-9630-3052 Tuesday Canasta - 1:00pm Tuesday & Thursday Exercise class 9:30am FINISHED UNTIL FALL Tuesday Shuffleboard - 7pm • FINISHED UNTIL FALL Wednesday Sewing Guild 9:30am to 4pm Wednesday Cribbage 1:00pm Wednesday Yoga - 6:30pm Wednesday Duplicate Bridge 7:00pm Thursday Floor Curling - 1:00pm • FINISHED UNTIL FALL Thursday Weaving 1:00pm Welcome to drop-in to see how it’s done Thursday Bridge 1:00pm Thursday Pickleball 7pm - contact Janice Mackie 403-396-4315 for location Thursday Art Club Drop In Noon to 4pm Friday “500” 1:00pm Saturday Yoga 9:30am Memberships available for 2015 - $10.00 per person. To rent our facility contact Dorothy @ 403-783-3027 or George @ 403-783- 3514 or leave a message @ 403-783-5012. Rentals are increasing and we would like to invite our town administration, business groups, and general public (Wedding, funeral, and Birthday groups), to inquire about rentals services and prices early in their planning. We may fit your bill!

Compounding the entire situation was the Chinese government devaluing their currency by almost two per cent (the yuan is fixed, meaning that it doesn’t fluctuate like the Canadian or U.S. Dollar when things happen in the markets). The devaluation cheapens the costs of Chinese goods as it now takes less money to buy the same amount off product than yesterday (literally).

Simply put, between the quantitative easing programs, lowering of interest rates, and now this currency drop by the government, many analysts are saying the move was one of desperation to get the economy back on track towards their targeted seven per cent G.D.P. growth.Overall, the report came crashing through the front very loudly, broke a few plates, and the market will keep the back door open for it to leave through because U.S. yields and production can only drop from here. The market is pricing in expectations for future supply and demand, which is why prices have dropped and suggesting upside potential

is now more prominent for the major row crops (corn, soybeans, wheat, and even canola). You could technically say the opposite about the pulse market as current prices are accounting for below-average yields in Western Canada for lentils and peas, and should better numbers start to be heard and seen, markets will fall back.

To growth, Brennan Turner President, FarmLead.com Brennan Turner is originally from Foam Lake, SK, where his family started farming the land in the 1920s. After completing his degree in economics from Yale University and then playing some pro hockey, Mr. Turner spent some time working in finance before starting FarmLead. com, a risk-free, transparent online and now mobile grain marketplace (app available for iOS and Android). His weekly column is a summary of his free, daily market note, the FarmLead Breakfast Brief.

He can be reached via email (b.turner@farmlead. com) or phone (1-855-3327653).

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Sports

PONOKA NEWS 23

Storm headed to double double with 6-2 win

BY MUSTAFA ERIC

Having already secured the league championship, Ponoka’s Storm FC men’s soccer team is headed to repeating last year’s double-trophy victory after defeating Diablos of Wetaskiwin 6-2 in the Battle River Cup semi-final on Sunday, Aug. 16 at the Ponoka Secondary Campus soccer field.

The game started under cloudy skies with a cool breeze as both teams began to test each other’s defenses, with Ponoka guys struggling to set a consistent pace in moving the ball on the pitch. As both teams tried to create scoring opportunities, it was the hosts who found the first goal when Christoph Dittmar converted a penalty in the 15th minute, awarded after Eric Escheid was brought down in the 18-yard box by Diablos defense.

The goal, however, fired up Diablos, who stepped up their game, with the whole team putting pressure on Ponoka players. Particularly the defensive effort by the offensive trio of the Diablos made life difficult for Ponoka midfielders as they struggled to pass in the face of man-to-man pressure from Diablos.

The visitors’ pressure yielded the result they were after when they earned back-to-back corner kicks and one of them led to an equalizer about midway through the first half. The rest of the first 45 mins. went on with Ponoka defenders trying to stop Diablos from gaining the lead and they managed to do that with first half ending in a tie: 1-1.

During the halftime, the clouds gave way to the sun as if heralding a change of fortunes for the hosts.

Just three minutes into the second half, Dittmar scored his second goal from close range just outside the six-yard box: 2-1. In another ten minutes, Jarret (the Bullet) Henderson, still a U-18 player and the newest addition to the team, blew like a wind from the right corridor and struck from the corner of the 18yard box: 3-1. Five minutes later, Dittmar once again found the back of the Diablos net: 4-1.

Diablos needed and wanted to stay in the game and they continued to fight: Two minutes after the completion of Dittmar’s hat-trick, they scored to keep their hopes alive: 4-2.

But Storm were in no mood to let their lead slip away, they kept attacking. Escheid’s close header three minutes after Diablos’ goal was deflected by the cross bar. A few minutes later, Dittmar scored once again from a free-kick about five yards outside the 18-yard box: 5-2.

Then it was up to Escheid to close the curtain in the final minute of the game with a close range shot: 6-2.

Storm coach Lonny Behm was not happy with the first half performance of the team, which he described as “sloppy.” “I didn’t like it,” he said. “We couldn’t string passes together.”

But he was satisfied with the second half execution of the game plan. “We did well in the second,” he said.

Storm will now face Manluk in Wetaskiwin on Sunday Aug. 23 at 6 p.m. in a repeat of the last year’s Battle River Cup final. Manluk is reported to have asked for rescheduling of the game time, but there was no word at press time as to whether the game time might change.

A close header by Storm’s Gurjit Sandhu (#15) narrowly misses the Diablos net during the first half of the Battle River Cup semi final in Ponoka on Sunday, Aug. 16.

Photo by Mustafa Eric

Gators return from provincials with medals

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

Twenty-three swimmers with the Ponoka Gators swim club competed in provincials last weekend with several returning with medals and many placing in the top 10 of their categories.

Coach Jon Davies said many swimmers saw great improvement in their times and it showed in the overall results.

“One swimmer that stood out in terms of medals was Harbour (Lehocky),” said Davies.

She won a gold medal in the girls’ individual (9-10 year olds) 50m breaststroke category and two silver medals in the 100m individual medley and 25m breaststroke.

Davies was also proud of the performance of Lehocky and three other swimmers teamed up in relay events. Laura Wilson, Kate Hollingsworth and Aspen McTaggart earned gold medals in the U10 girls 100m medley relay and the 100m freestyle relay.

“Those four girls have been swimming together for four years now,” said Davies.

Coming into the provincial competition, the girls were ranked fourth in the medley relay and third in the freestyle relay and they were able to surprise competitors.

Davies said that while the girls were cautious about what their performance would be, he was sure they could

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win. He added they just needed the confidence for their ability to win.

Caleb Froese earned bronze medals in the 18-yearsand-over 200m freestyle, 100m individual medley and 50m backstroke.

While there were no other medals won, Davies said there were improvements for many swimmers including Katelyn Korchinski, who was ranked 14th in the 13-14 year old girls 50m freestyle. She placed seventh in that event and fourth in the 100m and 50m breaststroke events.

Head coaches retiring Head coaches Davies and Megan Lewis are both retiring this year.

Davies said the parent executive and coaching team are ready for next year and he suggests anyone considering joining should be on the lookout for registration forms in March.

“These last four years have definitely been the most important and most lasting,” added Davies.

Lewis said she is most proud of developing a younger development group as a feeder team for the Gators.

“I’m so pleased where the team is to be setup for the next couple of years,” said Lewis.

She added the younger members will also have an easier transition when they start swimming more competitively.

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24 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Barrel racers prepare for ABRA finals at fun jackpot

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

Jaycee Bremner turns a barrel on Hustler Wednesday, Aug. 12 at the Calnash Ag Event Centre during an ABRA sanctioned jackpot hosted by the centre.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

With the Alberta Barrel Racing Association (ABRA) Finals coming up this weekend, barrel racers took to the Calnash Ag Event Centre Wednesday, Aug. 12 for a jackpot to practice their skills.

Planners at the ag centre host approximately six ABRA sanctioned summer jackpots to help racers get ready for the big event, said board president Terry Jones.

He said the jackpot supports the ABRA and is a fundraiser for the centre. One of the biggest challenges for riders new to the arena is getting their horses used to the environment.

By being sanctioned by the ABRA, Jones says riders looking to compete in the finals will take the opportunity to practice and accustom their horses to the large room.

“All our barrel racing during the summer is ABRA approved . . . we just want to be affiliated with them,” said Jones.

A few more jackpots will be hosted after the ABRA finals to prepare for the Canadian Barrel Horse Incentive, another big

barrel racing event at the centre with added money in prizes.

“It was huge last year,” said Jones, “It was a big event for us, the stalls were full.”

Top three racers in their categories: 1D Placings: • 1st 17.663 $245.00 - Rene LeClerq on Holly; • 2nd 17.757 $213.00 - Rene LeClerq on Lucks; • 3rd 17.810 $181.00 - Whitney Lynch on Winston; 2D Placings: • 1st 18.679 $245.00 - Shannon Blakey on Major Dry Bear; • 2nd 18.694 $213.00 - Rachel Bergstrom on Shiner; • 3rd 18.695 $181.00 - Jessie Vanden Brook on Pippa; 3D Placings: • 1st 19.693 $245.00 – Kayley Blair on Famous; • 2nd 19.721 $213.00 – Chad Muldoon on Handsome Prospect; • 3rd 19.747 $181.00 – Aimee Thompson on Nelly.

Ponoka-born swimmer wins three medals at Parapan Am games

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

In less than a year after her first major swim meet, Tammy Cunnington is earning medals on the international stage.

Most recently, she swam at the Parapan Am Games in Toronto, Ont. From Aug. 7 to 15, where her performance was so strong she finished with silver and two bronze medals in the S4 classification.

“All of my swims were personal best times,” said Cunnington of her efforts.

She has always been ready to win. The 39-year-old went from competitive triathlon events to swimming, which has taken her to a new level of competitiveness that makes her want to improve each time she swims.

Born in Ponoka, at six-years-old Cunnington was volunteering with the skate club during an air show when two planes collided and an errant propeller left her a paraplegic.

She still had the full use of her right arm, core and shoulders.

That didn’t stop Cunnington from competing in wheelchair basketball and triathlon events. But it is in swimming that she appears to have found an edge.

Competing in her home country added to the fun of the experience and family and friends came out to the games to support her races.

Her main goal? To be better than the last time. Besides her personal bests, Cunnington also beat the Americas Record in the Women’s 50m butterfly S5 event.

Cunnington has been with the Canadian team for just over five months. She competed with them at the IPC (International Paralympic Committee) World Championships in Glasgow, U.K. July 13 to 19, and she said the training has been intense. “World championships is a good rehearsal for Panam Games,” she added.

Medals earned were silver in the women’s 200m freestyle (S4), bronze in the mixed 4x50m freestyle relay and bronze in the women’s 100m freestyle (S4).

Ponoka-born swimmer Tammy Cunnington competes in the swimming events at the Parapan Am games in Toronto, Ont. recently. She earned two bronze and one silver medal.

Photo courtesy of the Canadian Paralympic Committee

The competition is tough but what makes Cunnington thrive is being able to have someone competing in the lane beside her, which makes her want to swim faster.

What’s next? “I’m on the road to Rio. I’m 100 per cent fully committed,” Cunnington said with determination.

Trials for the 2016 Rio De Janeiro, Brazil Paralympics start in April, 2016 and Cunnington expects the months leading up to trials to be an intense training experience.

Cunnington now lives in Red Deer and she swims for the Red Deer Catalina Club.

PONOKA NEWS 25

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Buccaneers end regular season with win SUBMITTED BY TODD LEWIS

The Central Alberta Buccaneers kicked off in Airdrie against the 2015 expansion team, the Irish, in the last week of regular season AFL play. While the outcome of the game would not affect either team’s playoff situation (the Bucs locked up third place with a win against the St. Albert Stars and the Irish did not qualify), both teams were determined to win. For the Irish (2-5), it was their last chance to play before the offseason; for the Bucs (5-2), it was a chance to improve and gain momentum before the playoffs.

From the opening whistle, the Bucs were in a battle they didn’t expect from the down-but-not-yet-out Irish.

For the majority of the first quarter, it was a tied ball game at 7-7. Pascal Plante hauled in the lone Bucs TD with a few nifty moves and a long 70 yard sprint into the Irish end zone (his second in as many games). The pirates would finish the first half with a moderate lead, sitting at 18-8.

While the Bucs were able to make some dynamic and opportunistic plays in the second half, it was (yet again) penalties that

were their Achilles’ heel. It seemed that every time the Bucs made an outstanding play, an orange flag was somewhere to be found on the turf. “We will not win games with how many penalty yards we are racking up each game,” said defensive-back Layton Johnson.

Runningback Tanner Green added: “we need to work on staying focused and coming out of the gate working as a united team. We don’t have a lack of great athletes by any means; it’s the mental errors that get us.” As a result of these errors, the Bucs scoring trickled to a halt. Before they knew it, the Irish had tied the game at 18-18 with a few minutes left. It would be veteran cornerback Tylor Johnson who made the game-winning play when he intercepted a stray Irish pass and ran it into the end-zone. The Bucs won their final regular season game 25-18, finishing with a 6-2 record.

Despite penalty woes, “there were a lot of positives to be taken away from the game,” said rookie receiver Hunter Gooderham.

“Special teams made some big plays and turnovers.

Both the offense and defense had big plays, showing a glimpse of what

we are truly capable of.”

These glimpses of potential are what the Bucs hope to embody when they kickoff against the Edmonton Stallions in the quarter-finals.

“With a couple solid prac-

tices and with our heads on right, we will come home with another W,” said Green. The Bucs host the Stallions, Aug. 22 at 6 p.m. at Lacombe’s MEGlobal Athletic Park.

In addition to the game, both the Irish and the Bucs raised pledges for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation in their first annual “Real Men Wear Pink” game. While the Bucs were

the victors on the football field, they came in second to the Irish on pledge forms (Bucs raised 250$, Irish 1000$). As a result, the Buccaneer team chairman will wear pink for a day at work.

#41 Cody Baird of Buccaneers makes tackle on an Irish runningback.

Submitted photo

Amy Lank named MVP at fast pitch nationals SUBMITTED

Ponoka’s Amy Lank has been named to National All Star team after winning the Most Valuable Player title at the 2015 U21 Women’s Canadian Fast Pitch Championships in Summerside, P.E.I. Lank played fast pitch with the U21 Edmonton River City Hornets this year and they were the provincial champions.

This result qualified Lank’s team to play at the championships, which took place from July 29 to Aug. 2.

Hornets had a six win, one loss record in the round robin but were unable to win a placing in the medal round.

Lank had two homeruns and second over all in RBIs.

FIREARM SAFETY

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

Saturday, August 29, 8 am Ponoka Legion 3911 Hwy 2A Non-restricted course and exam $120 Restricted Firearms exam available $100 Combined $200 Amy Lank poses with her MVP Short Stop trophy after competing with the U21 Edmonton River City Hornets fast pitch team nationals in Summerside P.E.I. Photo submitted

To register call Guy 780-461-7686

Ponoka Skating Club

REGISTRATION

NIGHT Wednesday, September 2 5:00 - 8:00 pm

Kinsmen Community Centre

Online registration is available at: www.skateponoka.ca Pre-season sessions also available

26 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015

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

6 PACK 8 PACK

Announcements

ADPACK ALL IN 1

CLASSIFIEDS CALL TOLL FREE:

1-877-223-3311

What’s Happening

Employment

Services Directory

Items Buy/Sell

Agriculture

Rental & Real Estate

Vehicles

Public Notice

50-70

700-920

1010-1430

1500-1990

2010-2210

3000-4310

5010-5240

6010

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

FAX: 403-783-6300

EMAIL: classifieds@ponokanews.com

announcements

Coming Events

GET MORE COVERAGE WITH YOUR AD

What’s Happening

Thank you to the Patrons and Staff of the Ponoka Jubilee Library for the many kind words and well wishes, flowers, gifts and cards for my retirement. It has been a great 26 years.

Sharie Kuhl

ARCHIBALD The family of George Archibald would sincerely like to thank their relatives, friends and neighbours for their thoughtfulness, kindness and prayers bestowed upon us in the loss of our father, grandfather and greatgrandfather with your phone calls, visits, cards and memorial donations. A special thank you to Reverend Shealagh McClelland for the lovely service celebrating George’s life. Thank you to Donna Luce, Merrigold Long, Russell Adams, Melody Campbell, Haley Brochu and Sheila Van Alstyne for the beautiful music. Thank you to Rita Kemp and Cathy Rowland for the special memories and to the pallbearers. Thank you to Bob Ronnie Catering for the lunch after the service. Thank you to Dr. Halse, Dr. Chan and the nursing staff at Ponoka General Hospital along with all the other staff who tended to George with such great care. Thank you to all the staff at Rimoka and his friends who made his last years so enjoyable. To Marion Wombold, Sheila Van Alstyne and the staff at the Ponoka Funeral Home, a very special thank you. Your thoughtfulness and compassion was so appreciated. In lieu of individual thank yous, a donation will be made to Ponoka Wheelchair Van Society in George’s memory.

Norman and June Archibald and family Heather Clovechok and family Bev and Ron Bray and family Cathy and Bruce Rowland and family

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

I would like to thank all of you who came out to celebrate my 75th Birthday.

I am especially indebted to my five children for doing all the arrangements; the home baking, flowers, video presentations and pictures.

Down to the last detail, you made it a very special day for me.

I am full of gratitude for the many blessings in my life.

For all the beautiful cards and handwritten notes it really does warm ones heart.

Coming Events

52

BIG BROTHERS AND BIG SISTERS

CLASSIFIED N.W. BUY • • • • • •

Ponoka Rimbey Eckville Sylvan Lake Lacombe Pipestone Flyer

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

See Help Wanted Looking for a new pet?

Check out Classifieds to find the purrfect pet.

Classifieds Your place to SELL Your place to BUY

Thanks Again, Melda Bragg

Meetings

The family of Patricia Spelrem would like to thank her friends and neighbors who touched her life in so many ways. She often spoke of her love for her Ponoka community family and her Asker Church family and how happy she was to be a part of their lives. You were always there for Pat and for our family. Words cannot express our gratitude and appreciation to the staff at the Ponoka Hospital & Care Center. The care and compassion you gave Pat helped ease her journey. The hugs you gave me and the tears we shared helped me make it through a tough time. Thanks also to Pastor Ted Hill, Pat’s “Musical family” for the beautiful songs, her dear friends who helped put together the celebration of Pat’s life, the Ponoka First Baptist Church for sharing their facility, the staff of the Ponoka Funeral Home and the caterers for a lovely lunch.

Sandy (Gordon) Gruninger, Ron Mathison and Janice (Gary) Gibson and families.

Business getting nowhere?

ADVERTISE!

JUST ASK FOR THE

#50 - # 70

Card Of Thanks

Card Of Thanks

Mentors make a

difference 403-783-3112 Celebrate your life with a Classified ANNOUNCEMENT

GET MORE COVERAGE WITH YOUR AD JUST ASK FOR THE

CLASSIFIED N.E. BUY • • • • • • •

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

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

403.783.3311

52

CELEBRATIONS HAPPEN EVERY DAY IN CLASSIFIEDS

59

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

Neighborhood Place 5110 - 49 Ave., Ponoka For more info 403-783-4557 Tired of Standing?

Find something to sit on in Classifieds

ALATEEN

Weekly meetings Tuesdays @ 8 p.m.

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

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

Central Alberta’s Largest Car Lot in Classifieds TOO MUCH STUFF? Let Classifieds help you sell it.

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

52 Street & 52 Ave. Ponoka.

403-783-4347 403-783-3442 Classifieds...costs so little Saves you so much!

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015

PONOKA NEWS 27

AG EQUIPMENT

Medical

Employment #700 - #920

Rimbey Implements Ltd.

Al York

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

Rimbey, AB

Fax: (403) 843-3430

ANIMAL SERVICES

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

Sales & Distributors

790

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career!

Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program.

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

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTIONISTS are in huge demand! Train with Canada’s top medical transcription school. Learn from home and work from home. Call today!

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

Oilfield

800

LOOKING FOR

Oilfield Maintenance Labourer Must have safety tickets.

No experience necessary.

Will train. Fax resume to 403-746-5131 or email smittysoilfield@gmail.com

Oilfield

800

Looking for Maintenance Truck Operator. Pipefitting experience necessary.

Must have experience with oil & gas wells. Please send resume to smittysoilfield@gmail.com or fax 403-746-5131.

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

TRY

Classified Advertising SERVING CENTRAL ALBERTA RURAL REGION

•

Residential • Commercial • Agricultural

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

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

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

ELECTRICAL SERVICES FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL & INSTRUMENTATION NEEDS

•ELECTRICAL • INSTRUMENTATION Jim Kelly 403-304-3707

jmtk@live.com

Trent Kelly 403-506-0240

(Must be 18 yrs.+) Apply in person to 5122 - 50 Street Ponoka

Position Summary The Marketing Manager is responsible for the development and implementation of all of Samson Management (2009) Ltd. marketing strategies. The Marketing Manager will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer of Samson Management (2009) Ltd. Position Requirements: • A post-secondary degree or diploma in marketing is preferred • A post-secondary degree or diploma in business administration, public relations, or communications will be considered • 2-3 years working experience in a marketing position is preferred • 2-3 years working experience in advertising and/or business management related positions will be considered • Must have valid class 5 driver’s license and reliable transportation • Any combination above will be considered Position/Company Information: • Samson Management (2009) Ltd. is one of the “for-profit” arms of Samson Cree Nation • Involved in many different industries as it manages a Gas Bar & Convenience Store, Grocery Store, Subway & Robins Donuts 2-4-1 Pizza Franchises, Automotive Repair Shop, Pharmacy, Arts & Crafts Gallery, and Real Estate Division • This position will develop and implement advertising & communication strategies, information programs, brand creation & recognition, publicize, coordinate activities and events, and maintain media relations on behalf of the businesses relative to Samson Management (2009) Ltd. • Offer competitive wages, benefits and pension plan.

• Hours of operation are Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm.

Interested persons are requested to submit a resume, cover letter and references by mail, email, personally, or fax to the attention of Stephen Wagner at:

Samson Management Ltd. Box 539, Maskwacis, Alberta T0C 1N0 swagner@smlcorp.com Telephone: (780) 585-2468 • Fax: (780) 585-2393

Business Opportunities

870 Is looking for a

FULL TIME GLASS INSTALLER • For commercial, residential and auto glass • Experience an asset • Benefit package available Apply in person or Email dean.johnston@crystalglass.ca Ponoka branch | 5008-46 Avenue | 403.783.5616

Business Opportunities

870

e z e e u q S the MOST out of your advertising dollars Place your ad in this newspaper and12345 province wide $ with a combined circulation of over 800,000 for only...

830

Marketing Manager

WETASKIWIN READY MIX

Help Required Waitress & Lounge Server

CALL 1-877-223-3311

Samson Management (2009) Ltd. is a for profit organization that is currently comprised of various different Business divisions and Real Estate holdings. Our Corporate Administration Office is currently looking for a

CONCRETE SERVICES

820

Restaurant/ Hotel

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

Misc.

Help

880

NOW HIRING Lydell Group Inc.

WANTED: CLASS 1 DRIVERS FOR LOG HAUL, PROCESSOR OPERATORS 12345 (HORNET,WARATAH, LOGMAX), FELLER BUNCHER OPERATORS, LOWBED EQUIPMENT HAULERS Based out of Drayton Valley Alberta. Competitive wages based on experience, benefits, accommodation, & drives to airport provided. Good equipment.

Fax: 780-542-6739 Email: info@lydellgroup.ca

LIFEGUARD/ INSTRUCTORS The Town of Ponoka is seeking applicants for Lifeguard/Instructors for both short (fall, winter & spring) and long term employment.

Duties and responsibilities of this position may include: • Participate in the delivery of aquatic programs and provide “on deck” supervision of the pool area.

• Participate in the daily operation and maintenance of the facility.

The Town of Ponoka supports our staff in certification, training and development.

Opportunities for advancement within the Town are available.

To be effective in the performance of this position, an individual would require the following knowledge and skills: • National Lifeguard Certification • Water Safety Instructor Certification (WSI) • Standard First Aid/Aquatic Emergency Care • Basic Rescuer CPR • Lifesaving Instructor would be an asset • Excellent verbal and written communication skills Salary: Instructor AUPE Class 8 $17.33 to $20.12 depending on experience *plus 10.6 % in lieu of vacation and holidays, as well as evening and weekend shift differential.

Applicants are asked to submit their cover letter and resume to HR@ponoka.org.

Shifts available include days, evenings and weekends. Applicants are asked to specify in their cover letter their availability. The successful candidate will also be required to submit a satisfactory Criminal Record Check.

Posting will remain open until all positions are filled.

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

28 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015

Professionals

Business and Services Directory Misc.

Services

1290

NEW BABY Business Services #1000 - #1430

Legal Services

1260

CRIMINAL RECORD? Think: Canadian pardon.

U.S. travel waiver.

Divorce? Simple.

Fast. Inexpensive.

Debt recovery? Alberta collection to $25,000.

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

Misc.

Services

1290

EASY DIVORCE: Free consultation call 1-800-320-2477 or check out http://canadianlegal.org/ uncontested-divorce. CCA Award #1 Paralegal.

A+ BBB Reputation.

In business 20+ years.

Open Mon. - Sat. GET BACK on track! Bad credit? Bills?

Unemployed? Need money? We lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420; www. pioneerwest.com.

Caregivers

1060

At Your House?

It’s time to call your Welcome Wagon hostess.

She will bring congratulations and gifts for the family and the NEW BABY!

ADVERTISE PROVINCE WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 1 million readers weekly. Only $269 + GST (based on 25 words or less). Call now for details 1-800-282-6903 ext.

228; www.awna.com.

1315

Unplanned pregnancy may be difďŹ cult to face.

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

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

Disability Tax Credit. $2000 tax credit. $20,000 refund. For assistance 1-844-453-5372.

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

Caregivers

1060

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS?

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

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

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

Call Denita at 403-704-1061

1290

1290

Personal Services

DENITA’S DAYHOME

Misc.

Services

Misc.

Services

Misc.

Services

1290

New Appliances Needed?

New, dependable, affordable Inglis & Whirlpool household appliances.

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

403-783-4880

1318

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

Roofing

1370

METAL ROOFING & SIDING. 32+ colours available at over 55 Distributors. 40 year warranty. 48 hour Express Service available at select supporting Distributors.

Call 1-888-263-8254.

Well Drilling

1400

+

A Star Makes Your Ad A Winner!

CALL:

1-877-223-3311 Well Drilling

ALBERTA

TALL PINE DRILLING LTD.

1400 FREE ES ESTIMAT

100%

CUSTOMER N SATISFACTIO

OVER 40 YEARS OF DRILLING EXPERIENCE • Water Well Drilling • Steel or PVC Casing • Pre Drilling Piles • Water Well Pump Testing & Monitoring

• Submersible Pump Sales & Installation • Well Abandonments • Shock Chlorination • Backhoe Service

24 HOUR SERVICE TRUCK Domestic, Industrial & OilďŹ eld

24 HOUR Red Deer 403-343-6266 Bentley 403-748-2955 admin@tallpinedrilling.com

www.tallpinedrilling.com

HOURS: Mon - Thurs 9 am - 12 Noon; 4 pm - 6 pm; Fri. 9 am - 12 Noon; 4 pm - 7 pm; Sat. 9 a.m. - 12 noon; Sun. 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. & 4 - 7 p.m.

403-783-6272

www.clinkerskennels.ca

Rental Misc

1350

Need RV or Self Storage?

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

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

Also RV storage.

Secure compound.

Call Keith at

MAIN: (403) 783-7591

First Call Towing

FAX: (403) 783-8178

783-3636

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

Well Drilling

1400

Well Drilling

1400

Well Drilling

1400

RURAL WATER TREATMENT (Province Wide) Tell them Danny Hooper sent you

)RON &ILTERS s 3OFTENERS s $ISTILLERS s 2EVERSE /SMOSIS h+ONTINUOUS 3HOKv #HLORINATOR 0ATENTED 7HOLE (OUSE 2EVERSE /SMOSIS 3YSTEM

12345 7ITHIN MILES OF %DMONTON

7ATER 7ELL $RILLING 2ED $EER #ALGARY .EW 'OVERNMENT WATER WELL GRANT STARTS !PRIL 4IME 0AYMENT 0LAN / ! # FOR WATER WELLS AND WATER TREATMENT

")' )2/.

View our 29 patented and patent pending inventions online at

www.1800bigiron.com

810

MARINE ENGINEERING and Deck Officers required for civilian positions with the Department of National Defence Canadian Forces Auxiliary Fleet in Victoria and Nanoose Bay, BC. Online applications only through the Government of Canada website jobs.gc.ca.

Applicants must meet all essential qualifications.

Engineer Reference# DND15J-009781-000048, Selection Process# 15-DND-EA-ESQ-394701, Link https:// emploisfp-psjobs. cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/ appliant/ page1800?poster=82074 3. Deck Officer Reference# DND15J-013566-000006, Selection Process# 15-DND-EA-ESQ-394258, Link https:// emploisfp-psjobs. cpf-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/ applicant/page 1800?poster=817589& toggleLanguage=en.

Mecaniciens de marine et officiers de pont requis pour des postes civils a la flotte auxiliaire de Forces canadiennes du ministere de la Defence nationale a Victoria et a Nanoose Bay en Colombie-Britannique.

Postuler en ligne seulement par le site emplois.gc.ca du gouvernment du Canada.

Les candidats doivent posseder toutes les qualifications essentielles.

Mecanicien: n de references DND15J-009781-000048, n de processus de selection 15-DNDEA-ESQ-394701, lien https:// emplousfp-psjobs .cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/ applicant /page1800?poster=82074 3&toggleLanguage=fr.

Officier de pont: n de reference DND15J-013566-000006, n de processus de selection 15-DNDEA-ESQ-394258, lien https:// emploisfp-psjobs. cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrssrfp/ applicant /page1800?poster=917589 &toggleLanguage=fr.

AN EXCELLENT CHOICE WHERE YOUR AD REACHES RURAL READERS

CALL 1-877-223-3311 CLASSIFIEDS HOT-LINE Restaurant/ Hotel

820

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

Wages are between $13.75 to $16.00 per hour, depending upon experience and qualifications.

Candidates must be able to work a variety of shifts and have 3 to 5 years previous experience. Must be able to supervisor up to 20 crew. Part-time applications will be accepted from Canadians and Permanent Residents. Apply in person 4419 Hwy 2A, Ponoka, 37479 Hwy 2, Red Deer, and 37428 Hwy 2, Red Deer or email resume to cbay22@telus.net or fax to 403-783-4251.

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

BOBCAT SERVICES Sur-B Enterprises Ltd.

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

OVERHEAD DOORS

www.doorsondemand.ca

403-963-5000

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FOR JUST

30

$

PER WEEK.

REACHING 6000 HOUSEHOLDS PER WEEK.

BOTTLE DEPOT

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

Closed Sundays & Holidays We Now Recycle Milk Cartons for Deposit

3, 5520 Hwy 2A (Across from Husky)

403-783-6875 SALES & SERVICE

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

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

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015

DENTISTRY

PONOKA NEWS 29

Sales & Distributors

RIMBEYDENTALCARE

SALES ASSOCIATE REQUIRED

DR. STEVE CALDER BS C DDS

For North/Central Alberta.

Opportunity for a mature person or couple in wholesale fashion jewelry, giftware and clothing sales.

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

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

DENTAL CARE BIRCHLAND DENTAL CLINIC

• • • •

Great second career.

Must be fit and love to travel.

Work schedule approx.

8 months per year.

A strong interest in ladies fashion an asset.

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

• DR. RICK BARR • DR. JEFF BARR • DR. STELIAN LISMAN • DR. DAVE CHORKWA • DR. PREETY BACHAN

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

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

•

5120-51ST AVE, PONOKA

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

NEW PATIENTS ALWAYS WELCOME

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

CONCRETE SERVICES

CABRAL CONCRETE

Trades

850

Ph: 403-783-6428 Cell: 403-783-1905

HEATING

INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT Operator School. In-the-seat training. No simulators. Real world tasks. Weekly start dates. Funding options.

Weekly job board! Sign up online! iheschool.com.

1-866-399-3853.

is looking to fill the following positions:

Overhead Door Installer Minimum one year experience installing residential, commercial, and industrial overhead doors or applicable trade, solid work ethic, and ability to work in a team, Comfortable with heights, mechanical aptitude & basic construction knowledge.

Receptionist / Safety Coordinator “Committed to your comfort”

Robin Esau

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

robin@KlesAir.com www.KlesMechanical.com

METAL RECYCLING & MORE SERVING FARMERS, INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL & THE GENERAL PUBLIC • Mobile Shears/ Magnets/Grapples • Mobile Flattener/Baler • Mobile Excavators/ Loaders • Scrap Metal Bin Service • Demolition & Decommissioning Hwy 12 East Lacombe • Earth Moving/ 403-357-4415 Excavating/Landscaping www.prometalscrap.com • Scrap Metal Depot

Wanted: Experienced Auto Body Painter Collision and other body work preparation would be an asset. Please apply with resume to calvin@ decoking.com or fax your resume to 403-342-7447

Misc.

Help

880

ACADEMIC Express ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING

FALL START GED Preparation Would you like to take the GED in your community?

• • • • • • • • •

Red Deer Rocky Mtn. House Rimbey Caroline Sylvan Lake Innisfail Stettler Ponoka Lacombe

900

Leo Cabral

Free Estimates

850

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN (Certified or qualified Apprentice) required, 12 minutes south of Calgary.

Successful candidate will have a proven track record of quality workmanship Gov’t of Alberta Funding and efficiency, and may be available. commitment to 403-340-1930 manufacturer training. www.academicexpress.ca Chrysler experience preferred. Brand new state of art service facility and Employment shop equipment. Excellent Training compensation. Will consider transfer bonus.

SEEKING A CAREER in Fax resume: the Community Newspaper 403-938-8627 or email: business? Post your info@ resume for FREE right southridgechrysler.com. where the publishers are Southridge Chrysler, looking. Visit: Okotoks, Alberta. awna.com/for-job-seekers.

Ponoka / Wetaskiwin, AB

SPECIALIZING IN: ~ Curbs / Sidewalks ~ ~ Driveways ~ ~ Basement Floors ~ ~ Stamped Concrete ~ ~ Exposed Concrete ~

Trades

Reply to: order@klassenjlrs.com Terry, 306-652-2112 Check us out at: www.klassenjlrs.com

PRACTICE OF DENTISTRY

4037835225 • 4037835235

-

830

Answering telephones, taking parts orders, creating purchase orders and sales orders, arrange shipping documents, maintain a safety program, and other duties as required.

Glazier Measuring jobs for estimating and installations, making templates, Installing glass and sealed units into various glazing systems, Commercial repairs including installation of storefronts and door repairs (closers, pivots, locks, etc), Glass cutting and other repairs.

General Labourer To act as a helper for Glaziers and Overhead Door Installers, deliveries/ pick-ups, and misc. shop duties as required.

All above positions require a valid driver’s license.

Salary will depend on experience. Benefits package and full time hours offered.

Please apply to: admin@ allarounddoors.com

Trades

Auctions

Buy & Sell #1500 - #1990

Auctions

1530

1530

UPCOMING AUCTIONS ESTATE of Tilda Bachand 4618-56 Ave. Rimbey, AB Sun. Aug. 9 @ 11 am. ~~~~~ Sun. Aug. 16, 12 noon Moving sale of Eveline Rose West of Ponoka on Hwy. 53 ( 4/5 miles) to Hwy. 795 north 3 miles to curve in road, Range Rd. 263, 1/2 mile, 1st place on left. ~~~~~~ Sun. Aug. 23, 12 noon 6416-51St. Ponoka

COLLECTOR CAR auction. 8th annual Red Deer fall finale collector car auction. Westerner Park Big Strapper Auction Sept 11& 12. Last year 403-782-5693 sold over 80 percent. Time to consign all makes mod- Check website for full listings els welcome 888-296-0528 www.bigstrapperauctions.net ext 102. Consign@ egauctions.com.

EGauctions.com.ˇ MEIER UNRESERVED GUN AUCTION. Saturday, August 29, 11 a.m., 6016 72A Ave., Edmonton.

Over 200 guns - handguns, rifles, shotguns, hunting equipment. To consign 780-440-1860.

PROPERTY & CHATTELS AUCTION for Mr. G. Lardner, Thursday, August 20, 5 p.m., Spruce Grove.

Selling House, Collector Vehicles, etc. Household items grouped & sold Storage War way! Phone 780-968-1000. For details: www.rainbowauctions.ca.

UNRESERVED AUCTION SALE for Charlie Snell at Oyen, Alberta. Saturday, August 22, 10 a.m.

Tractors, truck, tools, antiques, and variety!

Scribner Auction 780-842-5666. Details: www.scribnernet.com.

EquipmentMisc.

1620

A-CHEAP, lowest prices, steel shipping containers.

Used 20’ & 40’ Seacans insulated 40 HC DMG $2450. 1-866-528-7108; www.rtccontainer.com

HEATING & EAVESTROUGHING

Commercial - Residential Installations - Repair

403.783.3501 wcmltd@telus.net

3912 - 66 St, Ponoka www.wcmltd.ca

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

• Tree stump grinding • Gravel pads • Dirt removal/spreading - Compact bobcat - Dump trailer - Stump grinder

NO JOB TOO SMALL!

WCB • Insured • Licensed Locally owned/operated

CALL BRIAN HEBERT

403-506-3377

Household Appliances

1710

ELECTRIC DRYER FOR SALE

Call 403-783-2060

VETERINARY SERVICES

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

Phone 403-391-1684 ʹͶ

850 APPRENTICE OR JOURNEYMAN POWER LINE TECHNICIAN

The Town of Ponoka has an immediate opening for one Apprentice or Journeyman Power Line Technician for the Town’s Electrical Department. Reporting to the Line Foreman, this position is responsible for construction, operation, maintenance, and metering of the overhead and underground distribution system within the Town of Ponoka.

Required Qualifications: • Valid Alberta Powerline Technician Certificate or Interprovincial Red Seal OR Registered 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th year Powerline Technician Apprentice • Valid Emergency First Aid Level or above.

• Valid Alberta Class 2 Vehicle Operators License with Airbrake Endorsement preferred or willingness to achieve.

• Current Criminal Record Check and suitable Driver’s Abstract.

Required Skills: • Excellent organization and planning skills.

• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.

• Strong interpersonal, team participation and communication skills.

• Distribution operations, construction and maintenance knowledge and skills.

• Excellent customer relations.

• Safe work skills including knowledge of safe work and job planning procedures.

• Sufficient willingness, skills and experience to train apprentices.

Desirable Skills Include: • Experience in the operation of a Digger an asset.

• Standby and troubleshooting experience an asset.

• 25 kV rubber glove and hotline work knowledge an asset.

• Computer knowledge an asset.

Other Duties: Assist other Town Departments with work activities including snow removal, tree trimming and operating other equipment vehicles when required.

Hourly Wage: IBEW $50.89 per hour for Journeyman Lineman $30.53 to 43.26 per hour for Apprentice Lineman Participation in the On-Call rotation is a requirement of this position and the successful candidate must reside within 10 km of the Town of Ponoka Limits (this item may be negotiated).

Please submit resume and references to hr@ponoka.org and direct any questions to Larry Cire, Powerline Foreman 403-783-0147. Open until suitable candidate is found.

The Town of Ponoka thanks all applicants for their interest, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note - all applicants must be legally entitled to live and work in Canada.

Dr. Bruce Wine

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

Doug Casey

Can do trees up to 15” wide

1.403.318.0498 1.403.358.0452

VETERINARY SERVICES

Southwest Industrial Park 4102-64 St., Ponoka 403-783-5200 8 a.m. - 5 p.m Mon. to Sat. • Open late Thursday 24-hour Emergency Call

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

TREE SERVICE

BEST PRICE TREE SERVICE OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

SPECIALIZING IN DANGEROUS TREES COMPLETE REMOVAL & CLEANUP

• Topping • Dropping • Slashing • Stump Grinding & Tree Disposal • Tree Chipping FREE Estimates | Fully Insured

403.396.7623

30 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015

VETERINARY SERVICES

Ponoka Veterinary Clinic Dr.Jacobson Murray•Jacobson • Dr. Murray Dr. Clayton West Dr. Clayton West • Dr. Nicole Macdonald • Dr. Katie Graves Dr. Ashley Shannon

Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 5 pm Sat. 9 am - 4:30 pm

Music Lessons

PIANO LESSONS For all ages in Ponoka. 25 + yrs. exp. Grade 10 Royal Conservatory & BA Music.

Call Carol 403-783-4478 to reserve your spot for Sept.

24 Hr. Emergency 403-783-4348

5502 - Hwy 2A Ponoka, AB

T4J 1M1

LEAKY BASEMENT? Derek Wallace 587-340-2830 1-800-587-7325 www.edmontonwisecracks.com

“Professional cost effective solutions for wet basements”

Serving Ponoka & Area F R E E E S T I M AT E S

PLUMBING

PONOKA PLUMBING & HEATING • JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER REQUIRED We now carry a complete line of Ritchie Stockwater parts 5110 -50 Street Box 4414 Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1R7

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

JESSE ZINTER Office - 403-783-5489

WATER WELL DRILLING SERVICE

Agricultural #2000 - #2290 Farm Equipment ..............2010 Haying Equipment ............2020 Tractors ............................2030 Combines & Headers ......2040 Fertilizer Equipment..........2050 Misc. Farm Machinery ......2060 Equipment Wanted ..........2070 Farm Custom Work ..........2080 Farm Auctions ..................2090 Livestock ..........................2100 Livestock - Exotic..............2110 Sheep ..............................2120 Poultry ..............................2130 Horses ..............................2140 Horse Boarding ................2150 Riding Supplies ................2160 Horse/Stock Trailers ........2170 Pasture Wanted ................2180 Grain, Feed, Hay ..............2190 Seed Grain ......................2200 Seeding & Tillage ............2210

Grain, Feed Hay

2190

WATER WELL SERVICE

ECKLUND

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

IRRIGATION

Ponoka Irrigation Supplies & Service * NEW INSTALL * REPAIR * MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS * SALES & SUPPLIES TO ALL MODELS

403-783-1944 aspartxrick@gmail.com

For Rent #3000 - #3200 Acreages/Farms ..............3010 Houses/Duplexes ............3020 Condos/Townhouses........3030 Manufactured Homes ......3040 Four Plexes/Six Plexes ....3050 Suites ..............................3060 Cottages/Seasonal ..........3070 Roommates Wanted ........3080 Rooms for Rent................3090 Motels/Hotels ..................3100 Offices ..............................3110 Stores/Commercial ..........3120 Industrial ..........................3130 Warehouse Space............3140 Garage Space..................3150 Storage Space ................3160 Land ................................3170 Pasture ............................3180 Mobile Lot ........................3190 Misc. for Rent ..................3200

Wanted to Rent #3250 - #3390 Acreages/Farms ..............3255 Houses/Duplexes ............3260 Suites ..............................3270 Rooms..............................3280 Manufactured Homes ......3290 Housesitting Wanted ........3300 Garage Space..................3310 Storage Space ................3320 Stores/Commercial ..........3330 Office Space ....................3340 Industrial ..........................3350 Warehouse Space............3360 Resorts & Cottages..........3370 Pasture/Land....................3380 Mobile Lot ........................3390

LOOKING for round bales 1200-1500 lbs. grass mix, good for horses, prefer no rain 403-843-3308 or 403-963-0415

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 Career Planning

Manufactured Homes

3020

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY 5 bdrm house in Ponoka. Large yard, triple car garage N/S, N/P

780-965-9256 PONOKA 5 bdrm. 2 full baths, central location, rent $1500 5412-54 St. 403-704-1221

3 BEDROOM DUPLEX IN PONOKA c/w fridge, stove, washer & dryer No Pets, Non smoking $975.00/month $975.00 Security Deposit Available Immediately PHONE: 403-704-6903

4090

Real Estate #4000 - #4190

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

GRANDVIEW MODULAR HOMES Now Offering 24 X 68 Homes. Starting from $157,900 including delivery (Conditions apply). Call one of our two locations for details: 403-945-1272 (Airdrie) or 403-347-0417 (Red Deer).

Buildings For Sale

Money To Loan

4430

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

Bruised credit, self-employed, unemployed ok.

Dave Fitzpatrick: www.albertalending.ca.

587-437-8437, Belmor Mortgage.

4150

LOOKING FOR a shop?

Post Frame Buildings.

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

Transportation #5000-5300 Motorcycles

Manufactured Homes

5080

4090

Suites

3060

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

403-357-0287

Advocate Opportunities

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

ROUND hay bales. Hay, green feed and straw.

Delivery avail. No Sunday calls please 403-704-3509

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

Houses/ Duplexes

1780

CARRIERS REQUIRED To deliver the CENTRAL AB LIFE 1 day a week in: Rimbey Ponoka

TO BE MOVED 1976 Mobile Home 14’ x 68’ Near Rimbey Offers

Financial #4400 - #4430 Investments ......................4410 Money Wanted ................4420 Money to Loan ................4430

403-843-3457

DON’T OVERPAY! rtmihomes.com “Your Smart Housing Solution” Canada’s Largest provider of manufactured housing.

Text or call (844-334-2960). In stock 16’/20’/22’ Homes on Sale Now!

Public Notices

2008 SUZUKI Boulevard C109RT, LOADED

4430

Saddle bags, windshield, cruise, running lights, back rest, 44,500 kms.

CONSOLIDATE All loans with rates from 2.1% business or personal loan bankruptcy or bad credit ok. Call 438-992-5916

MINT CONDITION! $7990. o.b.o.

Money To Loan

403-318-4653 Red Deer

6010

Please call Debbie for details 403-314-4307 or email: dreitmeier @reddeeradvocate.com

Auctions

LAND USE BYLAW COMMUNITY SESSION

1530

BIG STRAPPER AUCTIONS ON-SITE AUCTION 6416 - 51 STREET, PONOKA, AB

SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 2015 at 12:00 (noon) Antique chairs, old Audel’s Automobile guides, John Deer toy tractors, old song books, electric fireplace, small freezer, wireless hp jet printer/fax/scan/copier, vinyl records (45’s & 38’s), framed prints, dressers, beds, night stands, book cases, potato bin, dishes, cutlery, glasses, bowls, microwave, slow cooker, spin mop, cleaning supplies, Mary Kay products, brass ornaments, binoculars, patio furniture, lawn ornaments, tools, tools boxes, wheelbarrows, scrub board, pressure washer, workmate bench, air compressor, shop vac, battery charger, propane heater, fishing tackle, file cabinet, plastic tarps, license plates, lawn rakes, gas leaf blower, chain saw, gas lawn mowers, portable outdoor cooker, and more!

Visit our website www.bigstrapperauctions.net to view items

For a complete listing call 403-304-4791

920 Let us amplify your message!

12345 Add this feature to your next career ad booking

Call for more details 1-800-282-6903 ext 235

September 2, 2015, 7 pm, Hudson’s Green Activity Centre Come out and answer these 5 Questions: • • • • •

What do we want from development?

What do we need?

What do we want to promote?

What do we want to avoid?

What do we need our plans to do in order to get us from what we have now to what we want to be?

The Land Use Bylaw is a tool used by municipalities to guide development and growth. The Town is starting a project to update its Land Use Bylaw and we want to hear from you. Please join us for this first session. We hope it will be a great evening of information sharing.

Community Planning Please help us by sharing your ideas. This process will lead to important changes and updates to the Ponoka Land Use Bylaw and other related plans. This is the first of several community sessions you won’t want to miss filled with two-way discussions about • Community growth, character and needs of Ponoka • Sustainability, density and development as the town grows over time • Keeping Ponoka a safe, healthy and vibrant town today, while making sure we are ready for the future As part of the evening, our Planning & Development team will present the Roots of Community Planning; how planning and development decisions are made in Alberta and Ponoka and how zoning and land use policies can help translate plans into reality With your involvement, we will be able to create policy and regulation that supports the objectives and priorities highlighted.

We look forward to working together!

PONOKA NEWS 31

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Public Notice #6000

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

Buying or Selling your home?

Check out Homes for Sale in Classifieds Public Notices

A clean house, how much does it matter?

6010

Ponoka County ROAD ALLOWANCE LEASE NOTICE Notice is hereby given of the intention of the Council of Ponoka County to consider the following road closure and lease by-law: By-Law 17-15-RL closing all that portion of the statutory road allowances lying south and east of the SE 25-4324-W4.

The closed roads will be leased to Brad and Billie-Jo Poitras.

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 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2015 in the Council Chambers of the County Administration Building.

A copy of the proposed by-law may be inspected at the County Administration Building, Ponoka, Alberta during regular office hours.

Dated at Ponoka, Alberta this 12 day of August, 2015.

Charlie B. Cutforth Chief Administrative Officer Ponoka County 4205 Highway #2A Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1V9 Phone: 783-3333 Fax: 783-6965 e-mail to: PonokaCounty@PonokaCounty.com

COUNCIL REMUNERATION POLICY REVIEW The Town of Ponoka is seeking applications to establish an Ad Hoc Committee to review Council’s Remuneration Policy. In this voluntary role, successful applicants will provide feedback on the current policy as well as review potential changes to bring this policy up to date.

To obtain a well-rounded perspective in this review, we encourage applications from those with Ànancial and/or management experience, former council members and the public at large.

Please submit completed applications on or before August 28, 2015, to the Town of Ponoka, Attention: Rachel Kunz, Chief Administrative OfÀcer Application forms are available at the Town OfÀce:

5102 - 48th Avenue Ponoka, Alberta T4J 1P7 or on the website at www.ponoka.ca

Terri Schlichenmeyer The Bookworm Once again, you couldn’t find your keys.

You were pretty sure you put them down on the kitchen counter.

On top of last weeks’ mail. Which you’d laid next to a shirt you bought on sale in April, breakfast dishes from who-knows-when, five plastic bags, and a dead plant. Yeah, your house is cluttered, but it’s not so bad – which is what Barry Yourgrau thought until, as he says in his memoir “Mess,” he began to look around…

The apartment hadn’t always been his.

It had, in fact, belonged to Barry Yourgrau’s girlfriend once, and she’d bequeathed it to him when she moved and he needed a place to stay. So when Cosima knocked on the door of the apartment one afternoon, she was surprised that Yourgrau wouldn’t let her in.

He couldn’t, because Yourgrau was a hoarder “at wit’s end.”

Postcards, old calendars, paper bags, souvenirs, and bric-a-brac littered the floors of his home, covered with dust, stored in boxes, slung across furniture and countertops.

Not only were the rooms cluttered, but so was Yourgrau’s mind: as a writer, he couldn’t seem to stay focused. His home was too much of a distraction.

Cosima gave him an ultimatum: clean or else. So why not make it a “Project”? Yourgrau decided that de-cluttering – and understanding his compulsion to hoard – might make an interesting story, perhaps even a book.

A twin with a younger singleton brother, Yourgrau had spent his childhood helping his family to move; his father was a professor, and had worked his way around to a series of jobs. Yourgrau remembered his mother’s death with deep sorrow,

but recalled his father as “domineering.” Still, getting rid of their “stuff” was an emotional struggle.

But, then again, getting rid of his own possessions wasn’t easy, either. Yourgrau sought counseling. He read up on hoarding and its psychology, attended a twelve-step program, accepted help from several places, spoke with other hoarders and experts, procrastinated, and tried tackling the mess on his own.

Of his struggles, he says, “A man who cannot let go: that would be me.”

There are a lot of pages here in which “Mess” lives up to its title.

That disappointed me; I had such high hopes for this memoir, but a first-half hodgepodge makes author Barry Yourgrau’s story initially very hard to follow. It doesn’t help that Yourgrau sprinkles his narrative with highbrow literary references and other edge-of-mainstream nods; a sense of mania and referring to people by a series of nicknames only adds to the chaos.

Fortunately, things turn around about halfway through the book.

There, Yourgrau starts to dig into the reasoning and psychology of

Barry Yourgrau

hoarding by consulting experts, which tampers the frenzy. Indeed, the second half of this book is more introspective, more down-to-brasstacks, and much more interesting.

Ultimately, I don’t think this will help much if you need advice on hoarding or cleaning. It’s just too cluttered for that but, if entertainment is your goal, here’s your book.

If you can, then, “Mess” is something to find.

“Mess: One Man’s Struggle to Clean Up His House and His Act”

by Barry Yourgrau c.2015, W.W. Norton $25.95 / $30.95 Canada • 276 pages

32 PONOKA NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

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Trevor Feragen Sales Consultant

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