WhitecourtWeb.com
Transcription
WhitecourtWeb.com
EE FR T a k O n & e e C MediaWorks Whitecourt MARCH 200 2007 7 — VOL. 5 NO. 3 C Advisor CIRCULATION 5,250 W hitecourtWeb.com What is it? Have Your Say Family Day at Rotary Park. More photos on page 23. Global Warming Debate Heats Up. Story on page 2. Photo details on page 26. Last month’s question - Do you favour elimination of the Alberta Health Care Premiums? Yes - 78.9% No - 21.1% - 128 votes cast. This month’s poll - What is your opinion on Global warning? a) It is a good thing. b) It is being over-emphasized. c) We should do more about it. Vote at WhitecourtWeb.com Photo SOHO Consortium, ESA, NASA Sagitiwa to Whitecourt - Part Eight By Jerry Graham (Ed - the following is a fair use, first hand account of early days in Whitecourt.) Monthly Quiz What does “Erin Go Braugh” mean? a) Luck of the Irish b) Ireland forever c) Happy St. Patrick’s Day - Answer p. 30. A t the time of which we write neither radio nor T.V. had been invented; we had no daily newspaper, no telephone, telegraph or other direct means of communication other than that IGA store staff and Whitecourt emergency re- (Cont. page 20) (Continued page 24) All set up for a trip from Whitecourt to Greencourt. MIDTOWN MALL R E N OVAT I O N S ALMOST DONE! One bay for lease • New Paved Parking Lot • New Retail Space • Courtyard with sitting area • Stage for special events • New Physio Therapy Clinic Clinic Contact Carl: (780) 778-1459 Concer t Ticket Giveaway St Patrick’s Day Draw Plus More LIQUOR UNLIM ITED 778-8989 New Products Arriving Weekly ICE C COLD OLD BEER Open 10 am to 11 pm daily Mountain Shopping Strip Roof Collapse in Valley Centre Mall Taste of Gree ce Greece Op e n from Open 11 a.m. a. m . to to 11 p.m. p.m. Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 2 MARCH 2007 WHITECOURT STATIONERY ‘Serving Whitecourt and area since 1989’ E arthway Massage Therapy Gail Marie Code, R.M.T. Phone 778-6898 RELAXATION & REMEDIAL MASSAGE THERAPY Your Full Service Office Supplier Specializing in preventative and anti-aging treatments & product. Microdermabrasion - Electrolysis Chemical Peels - Aesthetics Professional - Confidential FREE CONSULTATION Della Robertson CCE, CPE - 706-2364 Whitecourt Advisor Publisher: Dan Parker Office: Sheena Brandvold Billing: Rita Thomas Music: Judy Davio Fish: Denise Steeves Clinical Day Spa Mainstream media misses global warming causes Canada promised to stabilize emissions of greenhouse gases at 1990 levels by the year 2000 when it signed the Rio convention in 1992. The Liberals reaffirmed that promise in their Red Book, while Paul Martin proposed Canadian leadership on the issue and an international 20% cut. However, despite these committments, emissions have actually risen over 10% was never any chance that the divide between economic growth and environmental safeguards could be bridged. That is: not while the current debt-money system prevails Whitecourt Advisor 4907 52 Ave. Box 861 Whitecourt, AB T7S 1N8 Phone: 778-5577 Fax: 778-6666 Advisor@WhitecourtWeb.com Website: WhitecourtWeb.com Circulation: 5,250 Published Monthly Meanwhile, Canada’s largest trading partner, the U.S., has decided not to implement the Kyoto treaty on combatting carbon dioxide emissions. While there is understandable anger from environmentalists, the truth is that there We have it all! 2 Locations to serve you better! Dynamic Plaza - 779-0058 Open 7:30 am to 8:30 pm 3702 Kepler St - 778-8700 Open 6:00 am to 10:00 pm 778-6303 • 4915 – 51 Ave. • Breakfast (until 11 am) • Soup • Chili • Hot Sandwiches • Fresh Sandwiches made exactly to your taste. • Salads • Wraps • Platters and Giant Subs for your social occasions • Cash Cards Available across the planet, at any rate. Once again our political leaders are basically admitting this, while refusing to even discuss the issue. Welcome to the the Advisor’s freedom of expression efforts. The following is essential reading for those concerned with root causes and sustainable solutions to our current environmental degradation and pollution. The main article is by a Social Crediter which was printed in The New Times in 1991, but its message is more relevant today than ever. It is supplemented by the work of accredited economists, engineers and others who point out the problems of compound interest, which mathematically pushes for an exponential growth in the money supply, and a concommitant, needless growth (Continued on page 11) bookkeeping & tax specialists personal, business & corporate tax returns NEW HOURS: Monday to Saturday 9 am - 6 pm except Thursdays - open 9 am to 8 pm 4907 - 52 Avenue ♦ 778-2612 Whitecourt Advisor Careful what you wish for MARCH 2007 One day a genie appeared to a California man and offered to grant him one wish. The man said:” I wish you’d build a bridge from here to Hawaii so I could drive there anytime.” The genie frowned” I don’t know. It sounds like quite an undertaking,” he said. “Just think of the logistics. The supports required reaching the bottom of the ocean, the concrete, and the steel! Why don’t you pick something else?” The man thought for a while and then said, “Okay, I wish for a complete understanding of women—what they are thinking, why they cry. I wish I knew how to make a woman truly happy”. The genie was silent for a minute, then said “So how many lanes did you want on that bridge?” Hot enough for you An Illinois man left the snow-filled streets of Chicago for a vacation in Florida. His wife was on a business trip and was planning to meet him there the next day. When he reached his hotel, he decided to send his wife a quick email. Unable to find the scrap of paper on which he had written her email address, he did his best to type it in from memory. Unfortunately, he missed one letter and his note was directed instead to an elderly preacher’s wife, whose husband had passed away only the day before. When the grieving widow checked her email, she took one look at the monitor, let out a piercing scream and fell to the floor in a dead faint. At the sound, her family rushed into the room and saw this note on the screen: Dearest wife: just got checked in. Everything prepared for your arrival tomorrow. P.S. Sure is hot down here. Heads or tails Ned and J.B. finally shot a moose and were dragging him back to the truck by the hind legs. It was slow going as the front legs kept getting caught in the bush. Finally J.B. says “I think this is the wrong way, lets try dragging him by the horns.” Ned agrees but after a half hour or so says “this seems to be a lot easier, but we keep getting further from the truck.” Crazy George’s Audio & Installs > Home Theatre > Great Car Audio > Car Starters 5112 - 50 Ave. - (Across from 7 - 11) - 778-4554 PAGE 3 Serving the oilfield for over 30 years. Call: (780) 778-6220 s • • • • • • Seltec Computers 778-4501 #6 3702 37 Ave. Computer Sales & Service PC & Notebook Repair On-site Servicing Network Consulting Domain Hosting Wireless High Speed Internet Our Shop is A+ Certified! anadu Studio X Jewellery Derek Alexander Leather Purses Now In 4907 - 51 Ave, Whitecourt - 778-6097 Conflict of Interest Psychatrist: “ You can make arrangements with my secretary to pay your bill on the counselling I’ve given you.” Patient: “No problem, don’t worry Doc. You’ll get your money or my name isn’t Alexander the Great.” Certified Reflexologist Stressed Out? Need to Relax? Sheila (Pat) Dunham • Ear Candling • Reiki Master • Workshops Available (780) 778-3140 Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 4 SH BE R FO !!! N Y RL TIO EA EC OP EL SH T S S BE O ST P E SE ARL LE Y CT FO IO R N! !! Jennifer’s MARCH 2007 Peter Pace’s Choice By Gwynne Dyer Many people listen to the White House these days and conclude that a US attack on Iran is imminent: “To be quite honest, I’m a little concerned that it’s Iraq again,” as Senator John Rockefeller, the new chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said recently. But if President Bush gives the order, then General Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will face a big decision. Some senior US solders were worried about the strategic wisdom and even the legality of invading Iraq, but nobody resigned over it. It was obvious that the US would win the actual war quickly and cheaply, and almost nobody worried about the aftermath. But an attack on Iran is different, even though it would not involve American ground troops (since all available US combat troops are committed to Iraq), because any competent general knows that this is a war the United States cannot win. Air strikes alone cannot win a war, however massive they are, and they probably could not even destroy all of Iran’s nuclear facilities, which are numerous, dispersed, and often deeply buried. Many Iranians would be killed, but what would the US do next? It would have very few options, whereas Iran would have many. Iran could flood Iraq with sophisticated weapons and send volunteers to help the fight against US forces there. It could throw international markets into turmoil by halting its own oil exports. It could try to close the entire Gulf to tanker traffic (with a fair chance of success), and throw the entire world economy into crisis. And any further US air strikes would simply harden Iranians’ resolve. • Gift Baskets • Fruits and Passions Bath & Body Products • Unique Giftware • Chinook Soy Candles So would General Pace attack Iran if Bush ordered him to? His only alternative would be to resign, but he does have that option. Senior officers like Pace, while still bound by the code of military discipline, acquire a political responsibility as well. Like cabinet ministers, they cannot oppose a government decision while in office, but they have the right and even the duty to resign rather than carry out a decision that they believe to be disastrous. 5016 50 th Ave 778-6023 Some people naively hoped that Colin Powell would do that rather than let the invasion of Iraq proceed. After all, he was no longer a soldier, but he still thought like one, and he must have understood that the intelligence was corrupted. If he had resigned as secretary of state, he might even have (Continued on page 19) Whitecourt Advisor Town Council - Month in Review MARCH 2007 PAGE 5 MOBILE BONE DENSITOMETRY February 13, 2007 - Enhancements at the Whitecourt Twin Arenas are well underway, with several projects already complete. • Bleachers and a full heating system in the seating area in the McLeod Rink have been installed. • A new, energy efficient hot water system has been installed. • New flooring in the lobbies and hallways has been installed. • A female change room has been constructed. • A new roof top system air unit for change room heating has been installed. Further enhancements are planned for 2007, including: the redevelopment of the Athabasca Rink change rooms, lobby and washrooms; development of a display area; and improvements to the facility’s sound system. Final reading was given to Bylaw 1405 which will enable the Friends of Whitecourt Society to offer interest-free loans to physicians as incentive to move and provide medical service for residents in our community. The Society is pleased to report that there is an increase in interested doctors applying to work in our community, and is thrilled to be able to offer loans to assist moving to Whitecourt. The Fire Department will receive a new fire pumper in 2008. The new pumper will enhance firefighting capabilities and provide enhanced fire protection to our community. February 15, 2007 - Multi-Use Facility Update Whitecourt Town Council met on February 14 for a Special Meeting to discuss the budget for the multi-use facility project. Bids on the final tender package, which is the largest package for the project, were received and calculations show this aspect of the project is higher than original estimates. Visitors and delegations at the meeting included Woodlands County Council, Stuart Olson Construction, the Construction Manager, and Barr Ryder Architects and Interior Designers. The project consultants reported on the increases, noting Alberta’s booming economy and busy construction market as key reasons for the cost increases. Both Councils were provided information on options available, including reducing the scope of the project, eliminating features or re-tendering; however, both Town and County Councils reaffirmed their commitment to the project as it was designed and Town Council gave authorization to continue with the (Continued on page 6) Insight Medical Imaging will be offering Mobile Bone Densitometry services to: Whitecourt March 22 - April 5, 2007 Mayerthorpe April 10 - 20, 2007 (Approximate dates) If you require testing for Osteoporosis Please contact your Physician’s office to make an appointment and obtain a referral. Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 6 Freelance Mechanic (780) 778-6367 Experienced, Certified Heavy Duty Truck Repairs & Commercial Vehicle Inspections 3619 - 38th Ave (Hilltop Industrial) We do brakes and wheel alignments too! 7:30 to 5:30 Mon - Fri, 9 to 1 pm Saturday (Continued from page 5) project. Town Council agreed that there was a risk to re-tendering, and that it would only cause delays to the project and potentially increase the cost of the project further. Whitecourt Town Council is now undertaking the task of reviewing funding sources. Town Council and Administration are expected to meet in the near future to discuss the Town’s 2007 Budget and the Multi-Use Facility budget. February 27, 2007 - A Junior B Hockey Team in Whitecourt may soon become a reality. A local resident has obtained preliminary League approval to enter a Whitecourt team in the 2007/08 season of the Northwest Junior “B” Hockey League starting this September. Whitecourt Town Council supports this endeavor and is eagerly awaiting the League’s decision on the application. The Area Structure Plan for Athabasca Flats East has been completed and approved. The plan defines uses for the area, including residential, school, institutional, open space and neighbourhood commercial. Development is scheduled to take place in the area in late 2007. For more information, please contact the Planning and Development Department at 778-2273. Approval has been granted for the construction of a 31- 4004 36 St. (Next to Whitecourt Collision) Phone: 778-1978 Cell: 706-1854 unit apartment complex at 4502- 52nd Avenue. It will add much needed housing to the Whitecourt market and will greatly enhance the downtown area. For more information on the project, please contact Anderson Custom Built Homes Ltd. at (780) 723-4132. Are you heart healthy? You are invited to attend the Heart and Health Fair on Thursday, March 8 from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Whitecourt Community Centre. Plan to partake and gain valuable information on how you can stay heart healthy. For more information contact Gail Bablitz at 778-5555 or Chelsea McMillan at 778-6300 Perception strikes again One day, an employee received an unusually large check. She decided not to say anything about it. The following week, her check was for less that the normal amount, and she confronted her boss. “How come,” the supervisor inquired, “you didn’t say anything when you were overpaid?” Unperturbed, the employee replied, “Well, I can overlook one mistake – but not two in a row!” Whitecourt Working ha to help ke rd you inform ep ed Jenny’s back, at the same location under a new name. 4919 - 51 Ave. 706-3598 Walk-ins Welcome MARCH 2007 Advisor An inexpensive way to consistently advertise. 1/8 - From $39.95 Month with 6 month booking - includes web bonus Call (780) 778-5577 Celebrations Your One Stop Flower Shop Fresh Flowers - Gifts Balloons - Plants Wire Service Greeting Cards Wedding Supplies (780) 778-6700 5012 - 50 Avenue PAGE 7 Whitecourt Advisor One way this is done is facilitating partnerships between Project Amigo stops by Whitecourt MARCH 2007 Last month, a caravan of six school buses, one fire truck and two ambulances rolled through Whitecourt, on its way from Dawson Creek to Mexico. The vehicles, and their contents of computers, medical equipment and more, are to be donated to a local community upon their arrival in Mexico. The endeavour was an initiative by the Dawson Creek Rotary Club, with the Whitecourt Rotary Club helping out by kicking in for some gas money. The Rotary efforts were in partnership with Project Amigo. North American and Mexican Rotary Clubs to sponsor projects which benefit the children and their families. These projects have included building Colonia Rotaria, low-cost housing for poor families, and the installation of libraries and computer labs in children’s group homes and rural schools. About 35% of Project Amigo’s donors and supporters are non-Rotarians, and none of their activities are restricted to Rotarians. Project Amigo is an independent non-profit corporation whose mission is to enable the poor children of Colima, Mexico to achieve their highest potential by providing educational opportunities, material support, enrichment activities, and medical and dental services not otherwise available to them. Left to right below are Harvey Glasier of Dawson Creek Rotary, Darlene Chartrand of Whitecourt Rotary, Larry Moody of Dawson Creek Rotary and Larry McConnell of Whitecourt Rotary. Behind them are a few of the vehicles on the way to Mexico. 778-2383 Crown & Anchor Pub “Whitecourt’s most happening place” VALLEY CENTRE MALL 778-1900 FLOORING & DECORATING G i v e Yo u r H o m e a N E W E D G E 4213 - 42 Avenue (behind police station) RETAIL SALES & PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION NEW! NEW! NEW! Happy Hour Every Sunday - 11 am to 3 pm “all you can eat” Buffet Brunch - Includes a All Sunday glass of champagne & O.J. - $12.95 Beer/ Sunday Karoke after 6 pm - Super Domestic Sunday Supper Special - Salad, Roast Highballs Beef, Yorkshire Pudding - $8.95 $ .25 3 VIRTUAL GOLF - BUCK HUNTER - DARTS - POOL - VLTS PAGE 8 Whitecourt Advisor MARCH 2007 Countr y Junction Travel “Personal service bringing you the world of travel” Our factory engineered homes offer a number of advantages over site built homes that can be readily and inexpensively adapted to suit any lifestyle. Call 778-2203 or visit us at 5512 Caxton St. West K & C Graphics 4907 52 Avenue (780) 778-5577 WhitecourtWeb.com Large Format Printing. Up to 36” wide. Great for Blue Prints, Maps, etc. Where creativity meets technology For All Your Printing Needs Ian Rae: Inspector Residential, Commercial, Industrial ► Inspections since 1994 ◄ New Construction & Renovations (780) 778-3383 • grissol@telusplanet.net 778-4417 ◊ Midtown Mall Traffic tall tale A man decided that he was going to ride a 10-speed bike from Phoenix to Flagstaff. He got as far as Black Canyon City before the mountains just became too much and he could go no farther. He stuck his thumb out, but after 3 hours hadn’t gotten a single person to stop. Finally, a guy in a Corvette pulled over and offered him a ride. Of course, the bike wouldn’t fit in the car. The owner of the Corvette found a piece of rope lying by the highway and tied it to his bumper. He tied the other end to the bike and told the man that if he was going too fast, to honk the horn on his bike and that he would slow down. Everything went fine for the first 30 miles. Suddenly, another Corvette blew past them. Forgetting his passenger and not to be outdone, the Corvette pulling the bike took off after the other. A short distance down the road the Corvettes, both going well over 120 mph, blew through a speed trap. The police officer noted the speeds from his radar gun and radioed to the other officer that he had two Corvettes headed his way at over 120 mph. He then relayed, “...and you’re not going to believe this, but there’s guy on a 10-speed bike honking to pass.” Don’t have passports yet? yet? Take a vacation to Mexico or Jamaica… • last minute specials! • direct flights from Edmonton! • sun, sand & relaxation! Call Bev, Wendy, Rashelle or Sharon today! 5020 - 51 Avenue, Whitecourt AB ◊ (780) 778-4114 Whitecourt Advisor MARCH 2007 Armenian Economist is Giving Peace a Chance Rotary Centres train new generation of peace makers PAGE 9 Someday my princess will come A frog telephones the Psychic Hotline and is told, “You are going to meet a beautiful young girl who will want to know everything about you.” The frog says, “This is great! Will I meet her at a party, or what?” “No,” says the psychic. “Next semester.......in her biology class.” (Evanston, Ill., USA — 22. January 2007) Amid today’s headlines of war, suicide bombings, and violent crime signs of peace are welcome. Gohar Gyulumyan has decided to make a career of working towards peace and sustainable economic development in the Caucasus region, and Rotary International is helping the 37-year-old Yerevan native by awarding her with a fellowship in peace and conflict resolution studies. Launched in 2002, this two-year program is aimed at helping the next generation of government officials, diplomats and humanitarian leaders develop the skills needed to reduce the threat of war and violence worldwide. Gyulumyan says that because of the political instability and ethnic conflicts after the break-up of the Soviet Union, especially the territorial Nagorny Karabakh conflict with Azerbaijan, she felt the call of duty to reduce the violence and to create a better life for her people. “Even 10 years after the ceasefire the conflict can re-escalate at any point,”says Gyulumyan, who worked for the Ministry of Finances and Economy in the 1990s and most recently for the Worldbank’s office in Yerevan. “Our political and economical problems are interrelated. We moved from a planned to a market-oriented economy, but the lack of security hinders the economic progress in our country.” The fellowship allows Gyulumyan to earn a Master’s degree at one of seven Rotary Centers for International Studies around the world. Centers are located at leading universities in the (Continued on page 10) (780) 778-3302 5012 50th Avenue, Whitecourt, AB T7S 1P8 Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 10 $ Stickers 1 Hats $ (Continued from page 9) United Kingdom, the U.S., France, Japan, Argentina and Australia. Gyulumyan, who earned a degree in economics from the Yerevan State University, started her studies at the Duke University in the United States last August. Her career goal is to combine her knowledge in macroeconomics with peace and conflict resolution skills to better serve her country and the region as a whole. Gyulumyan says the fellows in her class come from seven different countries, bringing their own experiences and expertise in the program. “There’s a public health professional from Canada, an army officer from the Philippines, a social worker from Cameroon and an Israeli with a degree 1 Kiss Me $ I’m Irish 1 Window $ Decor in Middle Eastern Studies. What unites us is that each of us is trying to improve the life of people in different parts of the world.” Up to 70 Rotary World Peace Fellows are selected each year in a globally competitive selection process based on their professional and academic achievements. Their interests and areas of expertise include public health, sustainable agriculture, international law, public policy, economic development, journalism, and social justice. “You have only to pick up a newspaper to realize how vitally important it is that our 1 MARCH 2007 706-8833 ○ 5004B Dahl Drive world leaders be skilled in the arts of conflict resolution and peaceful negotiation,” says Luis Giay, chairman of The Rotary Foundation. “Everything we do through our Rotary clubs -- from fighting poverty to eradicating polio -- is intended ultimately to promote world peace. What better way to contribute to that effort than by helping to develop future world leaders committed to achieving peace and understanding.” As part of the fellowship, Gyulumyan will intern this summer at the World Trade Organization in Geneva, where she will study how foreign trade affects international relations. Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide who provide humanitarian service and help to build goodwill and peace. Paul P. Harris founded the world’s first service club 1905 in Chicago. Today, 1.2 million Rotarians belong to some 32,000 Rotary clubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas worldwide. In Armenia, 54 Rotary volunteers from 2 clubs carry out community projects to address issues such as poverty, education, health care and the environment. Application for the Rotary World Peace Fellowship must be made through a local Rotary club. The deadline for the 2008-10 class is 1 July 2007. For more information, please visit: www.rotary.org/ foundation/educational/amb_ scho/centers/index.html Majestic Frame Shop We use top quality materials and techniques Open Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (After Hours appointments available) Jersey Boxes & Gift Items • Drymounting • Art Posters • Needlework • Diplomas • Certificates 4920 - 51st Ave Phone: 778-4645 778-5151 “Taste the difference Quality Makes!” 5115-50 Ave (Beside Royal Bank) MARCH 2007 Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 11 Back Country Framing Same Day Service Industrial Cleaning Linen Rentals Alterations 778-6781 Valley Centre Mall (Continued from page 2) in make-work type economic activity. The structure of our debt money capitalization financing system, the additional serious problem of compound interest charges and industrial age ideas about full employment militate against the most basic environmental sanity, even as the power structures responsible for such a system exhort Canadians, and the world, to be more responsible. It is as though cigarette nanufacturers were leading the fight against lung cancer. FINANCE AND THE ENVIRONMENT - by Robert E. Klinck The finance-controlled media are billing the 1990s Anita Krewusik has 14 years of professional experience picture framing. Her shop is located south on Highway 32. Specialties include cross stitch, needlework and petite point. Pick up & delivery 778-8274 as the decade of environmen- slogan for environmentalism tal concern. We already know comprehends a genuine ideothat the watchwords of the ten logical revolution. It should years that lie ahead will be be obvious that “sustainable “sustainable development”, development” is a highly a phrase that, in a process re- complex criterion that subsembling water torture, will jects the entire economy to be dripped relentlessly into a test that only an elite can possibly impose. our consciousThe old environness, eroding our To what mentalist word, power to think end will this “conservation”, independently was a sturdily about ecological campaign for democratic term, matters. our minds be conservation bewaged? ing an activity to To what which everyone end will this campaign for our minds be can contribute; but how can waged? The implications of ordinary people participate the term “sustainable devel- in “sustainable development” opment” provide a complete other than as passive slaves answer. Humans are such of a panel of purported exlinguistic creatures that they perts on the subject? think of concepts through the If this concept of sustainwords used to describe them. So they think that the new ability (naive as it may be in “ ” Jenny’s back, at the same location under a new name. 4919 - 51 Ave. 706-3598 Walk-ins Welcome a world such as our own, with its innumerable variables) acquires the acceptance planned for it, then the shape of things to come will be plain: dictation of economic initiative will be centralized to a degree never known in the Western World outside wartime. Although the benefits to the environment of such a situation are uncertain, there is no doubting that it will afford the new environmental police and their friends limitless opportunities for self-aggrandisement. GOOD GUYS vs. BAD GUYS This objection to the notion of “sustainable development” points up a basic (Continued on page 12) Electrical Contracting • Mini Storage • Indoor Storage • 24/7 On Site Security • Boat • Indoor RV/Boat Storage • RV Off Hwy 32, Just South of 43 4503 59 St. Whitecourt AB Phone: (780) 778-2194 Fax: (780) 778-2192 Call Glen at 778-0624 Fax: 778-2047 On the hilltop at #1 - 3370 33 Street New Authorized Distributor for Creative Door Services For all your overhead door needs Call Wayne at 706-5840 Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 12 (Continued from page 11) weakness in the position of many so-called environmentalists. They contend that the environment is being excessively exploited and polluted because of human greed, but in so doing they propound a quite unbelievable ‘good guys, us,—bad guys, them” dichotomy. “Give us power,” they say, “and—unlike the profiteering rotters who wield it now—we will use it unselfishly for the common weal.” Even if such pleading is sincere, anyone of elementary political experience knows that accession to power often catalyses today’s starry-eyed utopian into tomorrow’s cynical despot. This is why, as a general principle, one is wise to distrust those who advocate combating evils flowing from existing concentrations of power by means of even greater concentrations of power. Environmental pollution is unquestionably undesirable, but that fact does not mean that the solutions to it proposed by those who make this point most clamorously are sage in proportion to their noise level. Does, then, the corruptibility in human nature render all attempts at benign reform produce less coal? Cause the futile? If the reform is to con- mine-owner to operate at a sist of more central planning loss for a few years: will that and control, it would seem so. make him want to produce However, despite the propa- less coal? The answer in both ganda emanating from pow- situations is no. Indeed, the er-seekers of all sorts, from probable effect will be to the idealistic to the crassly stimulate both parties to mine more coal and self-serving, who promote its conwant power conAs a general sumption whercentrated on prinprinciple, ever possible. ciple so that it is more easily capone is wise to The point is tured; other direcdistrust those that both the emtions for change who advocate ployer and the are possible. employees are incombating volved in a morOn closer evils flowing ally questionable consideration, the from existing activity for prepractice of blaming a few rela- concentrations of cisely the same tively influential power by means reason—to get money. In these individuals for of even greater circumstances, it environmental deterioration also concentrations of is hypocritical to criticise only the seems inappropripower. employer for his ate. For example, part in aggravatit is difficult to perceive a fundamental differ- ing the problem of acid rain. ence between, say, the mine- In so far as environmental owner who sells a “dirty” fuel degradation is concerned, the as a way of making a living web of culpability covers esand his employees who help sentially the whole of society, to produce the coal in order including the environmento obtain income. It would talist jetting off to the next be nonsensical to assume that conference on atmospheric culpability is in proportion to pollution. This diffuse rethe revenues derived. Double sponsibility is awkward for the salaries of the employees: environmentalists, since it will that make them want to becomes difficult to target a “ ” MARCH 2007 clear-cut enemy. Also, when virtually the entire community is collaborating in the practices supposedly needing change, the critic of the practices tends to appear like a holier-than-thou snob. If the person who is willing to foul the earth in order to balance the family budget is not really different from the one who is willing to foul the earth to balance the company budget, how are we to deal with the environmental problem? Certainly we will not get far by telling them to stop balancing their budgets. On the other hand, if the imperative to balance budgets is vastly greater than it need be, if the preoccupation with money arises largely from artificial pressures in the economy, as it does, then there is hope for significant beneficial change. SUPREMACY OF MONEY At some unknown, but fateful, point in medieval history, a money lender realised that the essence of a viable money system is confidence and that, once this confidence was established, a magical (Continued on page 13) FUNK Donald Funk PROFESSIONAL M.Sc., C. Psyc. Chartered COUNSELLING Psychologist SERVICES • Clients may access employer or insurance health plans for services. Reduced rates are available for those without coverage. • Evening appointments available. • Confidentiality assured. (780) 706-1340 ◊ 4923 51st Ave. www.funkproserve.ca TRUCK REPAIRS - MACHINE SHOP - WELDING FIELD MECHANICS - FORESTRY & OILFIELD 24 HR. SERVICE - APPROVED INSPECTION STATION (780) 778-3184 or 1-800-665-0864 Whitecourt Advisor MARCH 2007 (Continued from page 12) and very remunerative trick could be played. Typically, the money lenders were possessors of a stock of precious metals, which they would loan out. They found that, once they gained a reputation for reliability, in lieu of transferring actual gold or silver they could issue a promise to pay backed by the real wealth known to be in their vaults. Their next discovery was that, as long as people believed in the convertibility of the promises to pay, such promises could be issued to a value considerably beyond that of their holdings of precious metals. If, for example, experience taught the moneylender that only 1/10 of his clients would at any particular time insist on payment in actual coin or bullion, he could safely make loans totalling about 10 times the value of his reserves of bullion. Thus was born financial credit and the principle of what we now know as fractional reserve banking, which has both allowed the community to expand the economy with unprecedented rapidity and delivered control over the expansion to the money power. The important points to PAGE 13 grasp are (1) the promises to Acceptance of the principle pay functioned perfectly well that money is a commodity even though they were issued has ever since made it imposon a fraudulent representa- sible to establish a scientific tion of convertibility; (2) the relationship between the true money lender retained discre- monetary requirements of the tion to vary the availability of economy and the availability the promises to pay and there of money. was never an exact corresponBecause dence between money is regardthe total value From this ed as a commodof the promises perspective it ity, its proprietors to pay and the undertake conoverall mone- follows that the stantly to enhance tary needs of the proper role of its value. This is community; (3) money is simply achieved by causthe promises to to assist people ing demand for it pay purportedly derived their valto produce and to be high, which in turn is achieved ue from the bulconsume in by keeping it in lion in the money lender’s vault but accordance with short supply. Indeed, throughout in fact this value their physical the entire evolucame from the and spiritual tion of the money actual and potendesires. system, which fitial productivity nanciers have esof the community itself. While the pretence sentially been able to guide that financial credit is based to suit their own ends, mainon precious metals has been taining a chronic shortage of abandoned, all these features financial credit has been the have survived in modern fi- key to ensuring the moneynancial systems, whose func- dealers’ dominant position in tion is to create the financial the economy. credit of the community. THE FACT OF DEFICIENCY It should be noted that the money lender’s promises to pay circulated from hand to At first glance it might hand in trade as a commodity. seem far-fetched to suggest “ ” that there is a chronic shortage of money in the economy. After all, are we not told constantly that inflation, which is now accepted as a normal condition and which we have ever with us, is caused by excessive availability of credit? In order for the point about deficiency to make sense, we must have a reference point for normality, and to develop this we must be clear on the proper role of the money system. Money occupies such a dominant position in our society that we are accustomed to thinking of it as being primordial. However, this is surely a mistaken view, for, without the spiritual and physical capacities in the world, money is nothing. It has no independent existence and, while useful as a tool for releasing spiritual and physical capacities, by its nature it is completely subordinate to them. From this perspective it follows that the proper role of money is simply to assist people to produce and consume in accordance with their physical and spiritual desires. To the extent that these are not being satisfied for want (Continued on page 14) Tiddlee Winx Toys n’ Stuff “Classic Toys n’ Treats for all Ages!” 778-5822 Midtown Mall All your computing needs • • • • Software Printers Accessories More PC Repairs & Upgrades Available Midtown Mall 778-5665 www.whitecourtonline.com Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 14 BACK BASICS FAMILY MASSAGE Specializing in Corrective Treatment Beyond relaxation and therapeutic massage. Advanced training to provide effective, longer term relief for pain and dysfunction. My goal is to use my expertise to make you well enough that you don’t need me anymore. 16 yrs experience and practice. DVA Service Provider Veterans receive treatments paid for by Veterans Affairs. Working evenings to accomodate you better. Mon. Wed. & Fri. NOW WORKING SATURDAYS 4923-51st Ave. Whitecourt 706-8040 wk or 780-785-3787 to book appointments. Because............. Relief is Everything!!!! Maria’s Tailoring & Alterations Maria’s sells and custom makes: Bridal Headpieces and Veils, Bridesmaid Dresses, Flower Girl Dresses, Mother of the Bride Dresses and Evening Gowns. • Custom Fit Tailoring • Alterations • Drycleaning • Formal Wear • Bridal Gowns • Graduation Dresses • Reflective tape for coveralls Mon. to Fri. 9:30 to 6, Sat. 10 to 4 Midtown Mall ♦ 706-7092 “Best tasting water in town” Morning Dew Water • Distilled • Re-Ozonated • Zero ppm solids 4924 - 51 Ave 778-8885 (Continued from page 13) of money, the money system is failing. However, the deficiency that should be of central interest to environmentalists, because of its economy-distorting influence, is of a different sort. Another undeniable principle (except perhaps in the bizarre world of economists) is that the only sane motive for production is the desire to consume, i.e., to put goods to their end-uses. Consumption is the natural consummation of production. Since in our economy money licenses both production and consumption, it follows that the monetary system ought to function so as to permit consumption of what we produce. Unfortunately, however, it does not work that way. THE MECHANISM OF DEFICIENCY There are two accountancy cycles in the economy. One is the cycle of bank loans and reimbursements of loans. The other is the cycle of price build-up and liquidation of prices. The two cycles are related because the loans, constituting the money supply, are the only possible source of the means to liquidate the prices. The price build-up occurs as costs accumulate in the processes of production which are liquidated when consumers buy the products. Hence, price accumulation is a function of production, while price liquidation is a function of consumption. The loans are of several MARCH 2007 sorts—loans to business, to government, and to consumers. Loans to consumers and governments obviously tend to cause a deficiency of buying power because they involve mortgaging the future revenue of the community in order to permit present consumption, i.e., they do not liquidate costs but merely shift the obligation to pay them to a future time. To understand the deficiency problem that arises through the granting of business loans one must comprehend that bank loans constitute additions to the money supply. In other words, the issuing of a bank loan creates credit and the repayment of the loan cancels the credit. This accounts for the variability of the money supply. Let us say that a company obtains a bank loan in order to expand its plant. The loan will be expended as the plant is assembled, flowing to employees as income and to suppliers of materials as business revenue. Most of the personal income will be spent on current consumption needs and flow from the retailers, through manufacturers with lines of bank credit, to the banking system, while most of the business income will return to the same point even more directly. This reimbursed loan money is then cancelled out of existence, but the costs it generated during the building of the plant remain. When these costs are finally registered in the prices of consumer goods, the money needed to liquidate them is no longer available. (See Global Warming p. 30) Whitecourt Advisor Customized Food Guide Available MARCH 2007 O T T A W A – In previous articles, I have shared about the Health Committee’s study on childhood obesity. As we have heard testimony, members of the committee have been struck by how enormous the problem is. More than one in four Canadian children is either overweight or obese. The problem is even greater on reserves where 55% of First Nation children age 2-17 are either overweight or obese. The committee will be completing the hearings this month, but our government has already begun to take action to provide Canadians with tools for healthy eating. On February 5th our government released a new version of Canada’s Food Guide. The new Food Guide has been vastly improved upon the previous version that was published in the early 1990s. The new version provides the best, most current information available for eating well and living healthy. Other features of the new Food Guide include: • Information on the amount and types of food recommended for specific age groups by gender • Emphasizing the importance of physical activity • Inclusion of culturally relevant foods from a variety of ethnic cuisines • Versions specific to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people that will be released this Spring My favourite improvement is the ability for people to go online and make their own, customized “My Food Guide.” By visiting www.healthcanada.gc.ca/foodguide, Canadians can create and print a Food Guide specific to their own eating habits and personal taste. The web site even provides meal ideas and recipes, displaying the breakdown of how the meal and portions correspond to the new Food Guide. Canadians have relied on various versions of the Food Guide for nutrition advice since it was first published during the Second World War. Since 1942, it has been transformed many times -- adopting new names, new looks, and new messages -- but it has never wavered from its original purpose of guiding food selection and promoting nutritional health, using the best, most current information available. I would encourage every family to visit the website, or come by one of my offices in either Whitecourt or Edson, to get a copy of the Food Guide. What we put in to our body has an enormous impact on our health and quality of life. Let’s start eating healthy. For more information contact, please contact Rob Merrifield: 1-800-268-7117 PAGE 15 “Great Gifts for Any Occasion” Magic, the Gathering Tournament Saturday March 24 24th th 5:00 p.m. Start Scout’s Hall (Just west of Fire Station) For more information Call: 779-5288 Your urt Whiteco for Centre gic’ the ‘Ma line! We carry Pokemon & Yugioh too! 11 - 7 Mon. to Sat., 11 - 4 Sunday 779-5288 * 5027-51 Avenue TOTALLY COVERED CLOTHING Think Green for Spring! Cool fashions arriving daily. 25% OFF anything Green on St. Patrick’s Day MIDTOWN MALL ♥ 706-3547 Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 16 s wer o h S !!! To o MARCH 2007 Traveller’s Clo has arri Owner/operator Nu environm Home of Duffy’s Lounge Fri & Sat) and Rider’s Ni On the hilltop, across the highway from A & W (780) 778-2216 ◊ Education key to breaking cycle of pover 3732 Kepler St. • Pine Plaza • 778-5989 Transfat Free Drive Thru - Eat In Catering - Take Out 3742 Kepler St . 778-MARY (6279) W hitecour t WORKWEAR Mon - Sat 9 - 6, Thurs 9 - 9, Sun 12 - 4 Main Street - Next to CIBC - 778-4781 Canadian teacher Christie Johnson visited Whitecourt last week to give a presentation on a very special project. The details are in the bro- chure reproduced below and on a following page. The project is taking place in Malawi, which was recently designated the poorest country in the w p o to it MARCH 2007 Whitecourt Advisor Cloud 9 (former Travelodge) arrived in Whitecourt. or Nueman Kim will be bringing a new ronment to the ‘Olds’ hotel. PAGE 17 FURNITURE DEN 778-2016 • 4807 50 Ave. STORE HOURS - Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat: 9:30 am - 6 pm Late Night Shopping Thursday: 9:30 am - 9 pm unge, Willy’s Liquor Store (Open 5 pm to 2 am, r’s Night Club (Open 8:30 pm to 3 am Fri & Sat) ◊ 5003-50 Street (Main Street) overty and abuse with ‘Young Women We’ on a world by the U.N. The life expectency was 42 years of age at e in one time and has since dropped des- to 38 years. In some villages, the it is rare to see an older per- son, such is the scrounge of AIDs, famine and disease in this area. The Rotary Club of Whitecourt donated to the (Continued on page 18) Best Selection In-Stock Furniture Den is your ONE STOP FURNITURE SHOP Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 18 MARCH 2007 (Continued from page 17) BILL PAY PAYMENT MENT MONEY ORD ORDERS ERS O PEN MON. - SAT. 9 AM - 11 PM SUN. 12 - 7 project last year, but there is a lot more to do. The great thing about this particular project against poverty is that it is being driven by a local person who is directly affected. This leader, Memory Chazeza, knows the culture, and has led by example to show that it can be done. There is a donation form on page 26 for those interested (Continued on page 18) MOUNTAIN SHOPPING STRIP 778-8013 VCS has Accelerated Dial-up 5x to 7x Faster Ideal for Acreages Call for Details 1-877-838-8448 www.vennercs.com 778-4111 ◊ 5108 50 St. (Main Street) Your Family Fashion & Footwear Centre for Brand Name, Quality Apparel All Winter Stock REDUCED to Clear New spring and summer fashions starting to arrive. Whitecourt Advisor MARCH 2007 AT P L A Z A 5 1 PAGE 19 Massage Therapy By Patti-Lyn Always Savings Storewide Savings Storewide Open 10 am to 5 pm Mon. - Sat. 4911- 51 Ave • 4907 - 52 Ave. (by HR Block) For appointments call 706-3346 Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (780) 778-3470 (Continued from page 4) doomed war. stopped the war. But Powell was too deeply entangled with the neo-conservatives and too inured to military obedience to exercise his option -- whereas Peter Pace obviously does understand his choice. The resignation of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff -- and possibly several of the other Chiefs as well -- would be an immensely powerful gesture. It could stop an attack on Iran dead in its tracks, for the White House would have to find other officers who would carry out its orders. It would doubtless find them, but such a shocking event might finally enable Congress to find its backbone and refuse support for another illegal and fore- Full Line of St. Patrick’s Day Supplies, Wrap & Decorations. For Kids Too! On 11 February, US officials in Baghdad claimed This is not a hy- that the EFPs that have killed pothetical discussion: my some 170 American troops in Iraq since 2004 guess is that were Iranianboth the Joint ...such a made, and supChiefs and the White House unshocking event plied to Iraqi insurgents by “the derstand that the might fi nally highest levels of option of resignation is on the enable Congress the Iranian government.” White table. Consider to find its House spokesthe dance that backbone and man Tony Snow was done around the question of refuse support for picked up the another illegal theme, insisting Iran and “Explosively Formed and foredoomed that they were being supplied Penetrators” in war. by the Quds unit the past couple of the Iranian of weeks. (EFPs are glorified shaped-charge Revolutionary Guard. “The weapons that can penetrate Quds Force is, in fact, an armour at a considerable official arm of the Iranian distance. Most major armies government and, as such, the have had them for several government bears responsibility and accountability for decades.) “ ” its actions,” he said. Familiar stuff from the run-up to the Iraq war -- but then something unscripted happened. General Peter Pace, visiting in Australia, said that Iranian government involvement was NOT proven: “We know that the explosively formed projectiles are manufactured in Iran, but I would not say by what I know that the Iranian government clearly knows or is complicit.” A day later, in Jakarta, he repeated his doubts: “What [the evidence] does say is that things made in Iran are being used in Iraq to kill coalition soldiers.” Generals as experienced as Pace do not contradict their political masters by (See Iranian War on page 30) The Party Store with more We do the Clean-up!!! KID’S PARTY ROOM Room Rental - $40.00 for 1st 2 hours, then $10/hr 5112-50 St. (Main St) Whitecourt, AB 1-866-490-6628 - Local 778-6628 350 Brunswick Street, Prince George, BC, 1-866-401-6628 PAGE 20 Whitecourt Advisor MARCH 2007 Whitecourt Picnic in 1919 - Left to right: Mr. Stuckey, Mrs. Stuckey and Linehan child. John Torgerson just above Linehan child. Mrs. Harrop is centre (with head turned), Mr Linehan is behind here about to take a bite and Jerry Graham’s future wife, Dolly Torgerson is far right. (Continued from page 1) provided by the Post Office. What, then, did people do for amusement? Strangely while the various of amusement differed greatly from today and were a lot less costly, they were, in the humble opinion of the author, quite as satisfying and involved no great expenditure. A poster advertising a dance was usually hung in the store, and invariably ended with the wording, “Ladies please bring lunch”. The men paid in cash while the ladies paid in lunch, and while this would be altogether imprac- tical nowadays, it all added to the wonderful spirit of togetherness so much a part of the community at the time. Over a cup of coffee and with tempting fare, while the various of amusement “diffStrangely ered greatly from to-day and were a lot less costly, they were, in the humble opinion of the author, quite as satisfying and involved no great expenditure. ” (Whitecourt has always been blessed with excellent cooks even from earlier times) the midnight break at dances was something to look forward to. The difference between then and now is, that to-day the cook decides what she is going to have, and then consults a cookbook for ways and means of preparing it, whereas in the days of which we speak the cook surveyed (Continued on page 21) Fleet Air Electric be a cool operator HEAVY DUTY VEHICLE AIR CONDITIONING h Re tec a d D mobile service lim ot Gordon Jackman C Journeyman heavy duty mechanic Journeyman motor vehicle mechanic (780) 778-2573 ● Fleetair.WhitecourtWeb.com MARCH 2007 (Continued from page 20) what she had on hand, and it might not be much in the way of variety, but she did her best with things available. The lunch having been provided by the ladies eliminated the possibility that one might run into such fare as bear paws, beaver tails and muskrat legs which many of the bachelors regarded as delicacies. Good sustaining food maybe, but for which one must acquire a taste, and an ability to look elsewhere. The annual picnic was an event that was regarded as tops for the year and as a rule Tower for ferry, showing cable cable used to cross river in winter. Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 21 it was. At this gathering also, the ladies provided the lunch or dinner, and everyone sat around on the grass enjoying the fare, and renewing contacts with people he might not have seen since last such outing. No one went hungry. The assembly was, of course, almost entirely local, Greencourt being a day’s journey away, and Blue Ridge not having come into being. Dancing would still be going on at eight the following morning as a rule and the musicians gave freely of their time, spelled each other off frequently, and received little or no remuneration for their efforts. As far as can be remembered no charge of any kind was made for any part of the proceedings. Money and the acquisition thereof had not reached the prime position of importance it has now been accorded. Sing-songs also contributed to entertainment and the gathering in the Torgerson sitting room, some on chairs, some sitting on the floor, but all willing to contribute his bit to the program when called upon, were frequent and enjoyable. Some singers were, as can be expected, more ac- Early Alberta Provincial Police constable, Ralph Crouch, after the railroad came in early 1920’s. complished than others, and ing the simple things of life, names like Syd Pomfret and and become so much more Harry Clay come to mind. demanding in what they conBut what was lacking in sidered as fit and acceptable quality was more than made entertainment. up by enthusiThe police asm, and many an It is the opinion officer who on hour passed most occasion papleasantly with of the author trolled this area Dolly Torgerson that something (it was Provincial accompanying passed from Police then) was all and sundry, our lives when stationed at Rowhile the rafters rang with such people seemed no chfort (now Rochforfc Bridge), wartime songs as longer capable and he appeared Dear Old Pal of of enjoying the on the Whitecourt Mine and Roses of Picardy. simple things of scene possibly once a month. life About this time, It is the opinthe policeman ion of the author that something passed from confided to the author by our lives when people seemed stating, “I don’t know why I no longer capable of enjoy(Continued on page 22) “ ” Whitecourt Auto Sales Corner of Hwy 43 & 32 South 778-8808 Pre-Approved Financing Available! See page 31 for photos of inventory. Auto Glass Repairs & Replacements Off Road & Industrial Equipment Residential Glass & Mirror Cut to Size Insulated Glass, Mirrored Closet Doors 4110 41 Ave. ١ 778-3269 ١ www.crystalglass.ca PAGE 22 Whitecourt Advisor MARCH 2007 New townsite layout after the railroad came in 1921. (Continued from page 21) nized the minister as one of plan of Whitecourt). Prepathe former Whitecourt Mis- rations were then made to sionaries. On leaving, it was move such buildings as were only natural that Whitecourt considered worth moving should be mentioned. The from the bottom of the hill to minister beamingly declared the new survey. While we had no regular that he had the church services, the PresbyThe railroad most pleasant terians looked after us spiriProgress grade was commemories of tually, and held a service at no doubt, but pleted and a site for the place and irregular intervals in what the station chosen. he even rememwas then the meeting place something bered some of (the old red building that had that cannot be With the building of the station and those who had formerly been a pool hall). measured in a water tank, and invited him to The missionary rode horsetheir homes. dollars and cents also the laying of And no wonder. vanished from the steel, the first train whistled into It was just that our lives right Whitecourt a few kind of place. then” months later. Early in the We now had access to Spring of 1921 the Canadian Northern Town Properties the outside world, and EdCo. Ltd. (usually referred to monton was only one day’s as the Townsite Co.) sent in a journey away (on a mixed gang to survey the townsite. train) instead of three days as They did so by completing of yore. Progress no doubt, the survey of blocks 1-2-3-4, but something that cannot be C.N. Station built in 1921. It was considered the best Plan 662 C.L. (The original (Continued on page 27) building in town for some time. bother to come up here, they never need me”. A splendid tribute. back from Sangudo and arrived in Whitecourt for the most part on a Saturday afternoon. Thereafter he would go visiting in the hamlet, and invite the people to service the following day. While the congregation was never large the percentage attending compared more than favorably with present day figures. Many years later the author attended a church service in Victoria, B.C. and recog- “ WhitecourtWeb.com • • • • • Free Classifieds Community Calendar Horoscopes Weather & Forecasts Advisor Back Issues • • • • • Polling Questions Weather Cam Riverboat Race Clips Town Directories Much, much more. MARCH 2007 Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 23 It was a Family Day fiesta at Rotary Park again this year. Serving up hotdogs and hot chocolates are Jim Ferguson, Nizar Abouchami and Sheila Schutte of the Rotary Club. Turn-out was better than ever, with the a mini traffic jam caused, in part, by no road going through the park. Taste of Greece & Office Lounge — Check out our da daily ily Specials — Great Food - Pool - Music - VLTS Re s t a u r a n t o p e n f r o m 1 1 a . m . t o 1 1 p. m . Featuring Greek & Canadian Cuisine Cu isine Karaoke Fridays & Saturday Nights — Restaurant 778-4648 - Midtown Mall - 778-5535 Lounge — Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 24 MARCH 2007 SCHAFFER’S Custom Welding Ltd. C.O.R. Certified (780) TRANSMISSIONS • DIFFERENTIALS • CLUTCHES “For All Your Steel Needs Delivered” 778-5611 FAX (780) 778-3784 3423 34 Avenue #4, 3420 - 33 rd Street 100 % OEM PARTS • 12 YEARS EXPERIENCE Eaton/Fuller • Spicer • Rockwell • Clark • Sisu (Continued from page 1) sponse units prevented injury when part of the store roof collapsed on the afternoon of February 28. An alert store employee sounded the alarm when signs and sounds of the imminent became apparent. Everyone left the building without incident before part of the ceiling came down.. Emergency response shut off the gas and water 24 Hour Service Shop: Mon - Fri: 6 am - 6 pm Sat: 7 am - Noon to eliminate the threat from broken pipes on the roof. The atmosphere was tested for gas before the all-clear was sounded and vehicles were allowed to re-enter the mall parking lot. ► General Repairs ► B Pressure Welding ► Portable Welders ► Equipment Fabrication ► Extensive Steel & Aluminum ► NOW HERE - Break & Shear www.schafferswelding.ca This is the second collapse of a part of the Valley Centre Mall roof. Several years previously, part of the roof over the current location of Rexall Drug store fell in. Production Testing Swab Testing Electronic Reporting Written Repair Guarantees 1-866-542-5966 778-2171 • 3855 38th Ave Production Services www.selectproductionservices.com ( One Block North of Kal Tire) MARCH 2007 Whitecourt Advisor See story starting on page 16 for details. Malawi pays $440 million to rich It should be stressed that the following is not related to Rotary club policies or activities. It is part of an educational campaign put on by a Global Justice Movement organization at www.GlobalJusticeMovement.Org. This group is dedicated to the development of world governance structures that are transparent and based on justice. PAGE 25 This page sponsored by Royal Lepage - Zadderey Agencies. From the Jubilee Campaign and Internet On August 31, 2006 after years of waiting, Malawi has finally got cancellation of some of its huge and crippling debts. To get the debts cancelled, Malawi had to complete the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative, a scheme criticized for being too limited, too slow and coming with (Continued on page 28) PAGE 26 MARCH 2007 Whitecourt Advisor Explanation of page 1 photo Hundreds of meal ideas. One aisle. Located in Dynamic Plaza Mon - Sat 10 - 8, Sun - Holidays 12 - 6 (780) 778-2599 - www.mmmeatshops.com Turkey Meatballs with Pineapple Sauce 1 tbsp (15mL) 1 olive oil medium onion diced (about 3/4 cup/180 mL) 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) garlic sauce 1/4 cup (60 mL) cider vinegar 1/4 cup (60 mL) brown sugar, packed 2 tbsp (30 mL) ketchup 1, 19 oz (540 mL) can of crushed pineapple, not drained 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp (125 mL + 30 mL) orange juice, divided 1, 1.65 lb (750 g) bag of M&M Turkey Meatballs (frozen or thawed). 1 tbsp (15 mL) cornstarch optional chopped parsley for garnish Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large covered saucepan. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic salt and sauté for 1 minute. Add vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple and 1/2 cup (125 mL) orange juice and bring to gentle simmer. Add meatballs, bring back to a gentle simmer, cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, dilute cornstarch in 1 tbsp orange juice. Add mixture to meatballs and stir gently to combine. Bring back to a gentle simmer, cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if using. Serves 4-6. What’s happening to our Sun? Another Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)! The Sun-orbiting SOHO spacecraft has imaged many erupting filaments lifting off the active solar surface and blasting enormous bubbles of magnetic plasma into space. Direct light from the sun is blocked in the inner part of the above image, taken in 2002, and replaced by a simultaneous image of the Sun in ultraviolet light. The field of view extends over two million kilometers from the solar surface. While hints of these explosive events, called coronal mass ejections or CMEs, were discovered by spacecraft in the early 70s, this dramatic image is part of a detailed record of this CME’s development from the presently operating SOHO spacecraft. Near the minimum of the solar activity cycle CMEs occur about once a week, but near solar maximum rates of two or more per day are typical. Strong CMEs may profoundly influence space weather. Those directed toward our planet can have serious effects. This is not to say that thoughtless effects from our industrial sector, and it’s compound interest driver, can not also have serious effects in regards to global warming, particulate pollution, basic human rights and many other societal ills. The Luck of Some Irish Hennessy wasn’t a very good looking fellow to start with. Now his business had failed, and his wife and family had left him. Depressed and distracted, he was standing near the edge of the bridge, contemplating suicide. Suddenly, he sensed that someone was behind him, and turning around he saw an ugly little old lady leprechaun. “Don’t jump,” she said, “and I’ll grant you three wishes.” “Right,” he said. “my first wish is to have $100,000.” She said, “When you check your account, you will find that you are in credit to that amount.” He then said, “My second wish is to have my wife and children back.” She said, “They will be there when you get home.” He said, “My third wish is to be tall and handsome.” She said, When you look in the mirror, you will find that your wish has been granted.” Then she added, “I want you to do something in return for me. I want you to give me a deep kiss.” He looked at her and felt somewhat put upon at the thought. However, under the circumstances he thought he should do as she wanted. He took her in his arms and kissed her again and again. She said, “What age are you?” He replied, “I’m forty.” She said, “Don’t you think that you’re a bit too old to be believing in leprechauns?” Q. How many times can you subtract the number 5 from 25? A. Once, because it’s not 25 anymore after the first subtraction. MARCH 2007 (Continued from page 22) measured in dollars and cents vanished from our lives right then, and it is with a real feeling of nostalgia that most of us think about Sagitiwa, later Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 27 Whitecourt, and the good old days. Candidly, we were lucky to have lived then..... passed away in Whitecourt on October 17,1985 at the age of 90 years. (1993 footnote) John F. (Jerry) Graham Wilma (Dolly) Graham passed away in Edmonton on September 25, 1971. This is the final installment of Jerry Graham’s first hand account of living in early Whitecourt. New town layour occassioned by the arrival of the railroad. Many buildings were moved to align with the new design by the C.N. survey crew. Special thanks to Vic Young for typing out Jerry Graham’s Salute to the Pioneers, making it far easier to re-produced this popular series. Also to John Dahl for invaluable help with photographs and much more. Whitecourt Advisor PAGE 28 MARCH 2007 (Continued from page 25) harmful and undemocratic conditions attached. Malawi actually entered HIPC in December 2000, over six years ago: it has paid $440 million in debt service to the rich world, as it struggled with the difficult conditions it was told it had to meet to get any debts cancelled. • Providing Expert Technical Support and Solutions For Whitecourt and Area. • Competitive Pricing • Onsite Services We Come to You Call Center: (780) 778-4463 Fax: (780) 778-4542 Comprehensive@telus.net 5111 - 50 St. (Main St.) Come and see us for a great custom built system! We provide personalized service to build you a custom computer that suits your needs. the foreign creditors’ interest rates. If you ask me what is the worst thing in the world, I will say it is compound interest.” The agreement by the World Bank and IMF, amounts to a total cancellation of $3.1 billion: this will make a huge difference to Malawi’s economy. Even The money originally though it had already been allent to Malawi was literally lowed to reduce its debt paycreated out of thin air, by the ments slightly, ahead of acinternational banking sys- tual cancellation, Malawi has tem, with compound interest still been paying nearly $70 million a year in being charged on debt payments the amount of the Malawi (interest and loan. The money has paid $440 principal repayto actually pay compound intermillion in debt ments) to the rich world. est does not exist service to the until it is created These conas more debt at rich world, as it more interest. It is struggled with ditions included requirements like the old comthe difficult that Malawi pany store scam, where a worker’s conditions it was privatize entertold it had to prises including pay cheque could never meet the meet to get any the national telecoms company bills that his emdebts cancelled. and national airployer charged line, and “comhim with for livmercialize” the state agriculing expenses. tural company (full privatiThe main difference is zation was abandoned after that victims of the company strong public protest). store scam rarely died from The International Monthe injustice. etary Fund (IMF) also told Malawi it had to cut back on After the G8 summit in spending: but Malawi needs Okinawa in 2000, President huge public investment. It is Obasanjo of Nigeria made suffering an appalling HIV/ this comment on Nigeria’s AIDS crisis which means debt: “All that we had bor- that one in seven adults is rowed up to 1985 or 1986 HIV positive - but there is was around $5 billion and we only one doctor for about evhave paid about $16 billion ery 80,000 people (compared yet we are still being told that to one in every 600 people in we owe about $28 billion. the developed world). It has That $28 billion came about also been suffering a food (See Malawi debt on page 30) because of the injustice in “ ” Whitecourt Advisor MARCH 2007 MediaWorks Printing Graphic Design Advertising Web Design Computers Community Bulletins Sponsored by: 778-5577 - 4907 52 Ave - KCGraphics@WhitecourtWeb.com Heart & Health Fair 2007 Thursday, March 8 Time: 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Location: Whitecourt Community Centre (Gymnasium at Central School) Cost: Free of charge Contact Name/Number: Gail Bablitz at 778-5555 or Chelsea McMillan at 778-6300. Event Description: Join us to learn about the risks associated with heart disease as well as resources available within our community. There will be heart health stations where participants have blood pressure checks, healthy eating advice, active lifestyles, clean air, etc. E.C.H.O. Society’s 2nd Annual St. Patrick’s Pub Night Saturday, March 10 Time: 8:00 PM Location: Whitecourt Community Centre Cost: Tickets are $20.00 Contact Name/Number: For more information, contact the E.C.H.O. Society at 778-2660. Event Description: Entertainment by Joe Public; Silent Auction and Pub Grub! Trailblazer Sunday Ride March 11, 2007 Riders interested in joining a Sunday Ride should plan on being at the Eagle River Snowmobile Staging Area (NW of Whitecourt on Hwy #32) by 12:00 Noon on Sundays. The ride leaves the Staging Area by 12:30 PM. The Sunday Rides Program offers newcomers to the community and tourists the opportunity to ride with a Club Member who will lead a group for a 3 to 4 hour ride through the trail system. The ride usually includes a stop for a trail lunch. Participants should dress for the weather and bring their own trail lunch. Sunday Rides for any given Sunday will be cancelled if the temperature is below -15C at 12:00 Noon. Phil: Have you ever suspected your wife of leading a double life? Ralph: You bet. Hers and mine! PAGE 29 10 % Tuesdays EVERY Tuesday at Purchase a $50 or $100 Dynamic prepaid gift card on any Tuesday and RECEIVE an EXTRA 10 % GIFT CARD There’s a Dynamic location near you, for your convenience PAGE 30 Whitecourt Advisor (Iranian war from page 19) (Malawi debt from page 28) (Global Warming from p.14) accident. The White House got the message, and retreated a bit. “What we don’t know is whether the headquarters in Iran ordered the Quds force to do what they did,” said President Bush on 14 February. But he didn’t really back down: “I intend to do something about it... we’re going to protect our troops.” crisis brought on by drought — and donors did not provide the assistance that was promised. If the foregoing explanation elicits scepticism, it is only be-cause people do not know how money comes into being and are accustomed to think of it as pooled rather than particulate. However, every dollar in the community is linked in a chain of debt relationships that leads ultimately to the manufacturers of credit, the banks. Regardless of popular notions on the matter, there is no selfgenerated “free” money floating around to fill the gap left by the premature cancellation of the credit disbursed during the development of the plant. There is a civil-military confrontation brewing in the United States more serious than anything that has been seen since President Truman fired General Douglas MacArthur during the Korean War. But this time, if the general acts on his convictions, he will be in the right. GWYNNE DYER has worked as a freelance journalist, columnist, broadcaster and lecturer on international affairs for more than 20 years. Born in Newfoundland, he received degrees from Canadian, American and British universities, finishing with a Ph.D. in Military and Middle Eastern History from the University of London. His articles are published in over 45 countries. Gamblers Anonymous 8:00 pm every Tuesday United Church 5201 50 Street Call Sue 778-6230 But despite these huge problems and clear needs, the IMF still said Malawi had to cut spending in order to get debt relief. When it ‘overspent’ - at least in part on importing grain to feed its people — the IMF punished it by suspending debt relief (the reduction in debt payments it had been promised) and delaying much-needed debt cancellation still further. Now that Malawi has got past these appalling obstacles, it has the debt cancellation it deserves and needs. The rich world needs to ensure that all unjust and unpayable debts are cancelled, without forcing more countries to go through the same pains as Malawi. Under the current unjust compound interest system, the debt is guaranteed to grow again, so an additional requirement for the future will be creating a sensible and justice based monetary system. My Little Saigon Restaurant Help Cook Wanted $12.00 /hr Waitress $8.00 /hr Please apply in person with résumé to 4812 - 50 Ave. Quiz Answer (From page 1) “Erin Go Braugh” Ireland forever means So where will the money come from to fill the growing disparity between the cumulative flow of retail prices and the cumulative flow of consumer buying power? If not from debt assumed by consumers or government, which as we have seen does not liquidate costs, it will be derived from debt assumed for further plant expansion, which again will distribute purchasing power in advance of expanding the effective cost burden on consumers. But of course this distribution leads directly to a deficiency of consumer buying power in relation to the latest generation of capital costs. As long as capital development is expanding, we can muddle through in dealing with the problem. But making the purchase of today’s bread dependent upon the production of tomorrow’s jet fighter or office complex is a hare-brained way to run an economy—absolutely a mug’s game where environmental considerations come into play. MARCH 2007 As long as current methods of financing are practised, there is simply no way the flow of buying power can keep up with the flows of costs and prices; they are perpetually out of sync. Indeed, the situation is a real catch-22 in that, while the purchasingpower deficiency is aggravated in a capital-intensive economy, the deficiency itself tends to promote an artificially intense concentration on expanding capital. A final question remains: what if the capital development is financed not directly by means of bank credit but through reinvestment of savings? In this case, money needed for consumption is diverted into capital production, from which it issues again as consumer income. However, while the aggregate volume of consumer purchasing power is not changed in this process, a new set of capital costs is added to the flow of costs pushing up retail prices. Hence, this method of financing also results in a shortage of consumer buying power. NEXT ISSUE PART 2 OF 2 Helpful Hint The doorbell rang, and the lady of the house discovered a workman, complete with tool chest, on the front door. “Lady,” he announced, “I’m the piano tuner.” The lady exclaimed, “Why, I didn’t send for a piano tuner.” The man replied, “I know, but your neighbors did.” Whitecourt Advisor MARCH 2007 PAGE 31 W hitec o urt Au Whitecourt Auto to Sales Sa les Corner Hwy 43 & 32 South 778-8808 CALL US FOR DETAILS ON PRICING • NEW STOCK ARRIVING WEEKLY! low s Our give d a e h over U low YO s! price LY ON icker Diesel w P 1989 Trax Truck - $ CALL m! 16 k Lea ther - Fu ll L oad Hiab 35 Hiab 035 Diesel 4 x 4 - 0 2003 Grand Am GT $CALL , V-6 SO 1994 Ford Ranger - $CALL 250 SX 1980 Layton 18 ft. - $CALL 4x 4 L ow CALL $ CALL $ CALL 1997 GMC Z-71 -$CALL ! ike New 23.5 - L$ CALL 1999 Cherokee - 4x4 Full load, leather 1995 Chev - $CALL 1998 Chev Z-71 -$CALL 2004 2500 - $CALL 2002 Neon - $CALL 2002 F-250 4x4 - $CALL Low km 2004 F-250 4x4 - $CALL $ CALL 2003 F-350 4x4 - 4 x 4 - Full Load - Diesel V6 Auto 4.3 Century - $CALL 2002 Chev Duramax 1998 Buick 1989 Camper Van - V 2005 Toyota Corolla - $CALL RT Magnum - $ CALL $ CALL 18 $ CALL M ft - 1990 Wilderness - $CALL 5 sp d- $ CALL 2000 Crew Cab - $CALL uto 4.3 V6 A 1997 Jeep TJ - $ CALL 1996 Cube Van - $CALL uto 6A $ CALL 2003 Chev Crew - $CALL 2002 Montana - $CALL m, ow k yl ,4c auto l V 1997 Grand AM - ll Load 4 x 4 - Fu 4 cy l 1995 Neon - 4x4 2005 1000 Rev. 162 -$CALL o Aut int uto 6A - Leather Low Km Diesel 4 x 4 1995 Dodge 2500 - 1999 Neon - $CALL V8 $ 8A uto 4x4 ext-long 1985 Honda Trike - $CALL l 6.2 Diese 1990 Cube Van - 2001 PT Cruiser - $CALL K 03 Ford Expedition - $CALL 2006 Cargo Trailer - CALL 4, V 4 x 4 - Full Load LD 2002 Olds Alero - $CALL $ 2004 Ford F-450 4x Sta nda rd 4 d 4x 5 sp 4x4 Full load, leather 2005 Expedition - $CALL V-6 , 1999 Yukon 4x4 - $CALL 2002 Pontiac Sunfire - $ CALL us see e Com a deal for can cyl 4 o you ST Aut $ 2000 - Pontiac Sunfire - CALL TRU Financing and Warranty Available ∆ Consignments and Trades Welcome ◊ CALL FOR PRE-APPROVAL OF FINANCING ◊ Any errors in ad subject to correction notice only in next issue. Martin Equipment SPRING SALES EVENT EZtrak™ Riding Mower Available from $3,599 3320 Cab Tractor † • 18.5 - 25HP engines • 42" - 54" Edge™ Mower Decks • 1/4" cut-height increments • Test drive one today at Martin Equipment! Starting at $12,999! John Deere Lawn Tractor As Low As $29,995 ‡ $1,829 2 • 32.5HP 3-Cylinder Yanmar diesel engine • 18.5HP John Deere V-Twin engine • Standard 4-wheel drive • 42" Mowing Deck • 125 Attachments Available • Optional mulch and bagger • Air-conditioned or heated cab all year long! • Starting at $1,829! 2305 Compact Utility Tractor = $12,999 • 24 (18PTO) HP diesel engine • Dual Mid SCV's with Joystick • Hydrostatic Transmission • Simple implement attachment with iMatch • 4-wheel drive standard www.JohnDeere.com Prices are suggested retail prices and are subject to change without notice at any time. Dealer may sell for less. Taxes and delivery charges not included. Attachments and implements sold separately. See dealer for details. Prices are suggested retail prices and are subject to change without notice at any time. Dealer may sell for less. Taxes and delivery charges not included. Attachments and implements sold separately. See dealer for details. Prices are suggested retail prices only and are subject to change without notice at any time. Dealer may sell for less. Taxes, setup, delivery, freight and preparation charges not included. Attachments and implements sold separately. See dealer for details. John Deere's green and yellow color scheme, the leaping deer symbol, and JOHN DEERE are trademarks of Deere & Company. J74CUBD0802-MAR7X30305WA-4C-00164803 ‡ † 2 A Canadian best seller since 1913. Jeanne MacMillan Realtor Cell: 778-1779 Nicole Barrett Realtor Cell:204-0565 Troudy Kowaliuk Associate Broker Cell: 778-1140 Dan Parker Realtor Cell: 706-6151 We will help you find the right home in the right neighbourhood at the right price. ZADDEREY AGENCIES LTD - INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED Easy living This Adult Only condo is conveniently located close to downtown and Rotary Park - easy walking distance to recreation facilities, shopping and medical clinic. This unit features an extra large master bedroom with bath, a smaller bedroom and a spacious laundry room in the upper level. The main floor consists of a large front room, 1/2 bath, a generous kitchen and eating area. The basement is all garage! Lots of parking space and Look no further. Home and yard are lots and lots of green area. Ideal home to relax in - leave immaculate. - $364,900 all the fast paced life behind and enjoy peace and quiet and NO WORK! L O S We have buyers waiting for the right properties. Call 778-8010. L O S Out in the countr y - No Photo L O S D D D Exceptional Opportunity. Just 5 km from Whitecourt, 9 acres +/- with 1438 sq. ft. manufactured home, with many upgrades. Beautiful setting. Some services required. Call N ewer mobile Pride of ownership is evident as soon as you walk through the Troudy at 778-1140 today for details. door. $92,900 778-8010 ◊ www.whitecourtroyallepage.com Home Furnishings Decor Interior Design Consulting O p en 7 days a week N e w Sto Stoc ck k A rri r r iv viing ng D a ily Dai ly Open 10 to 6 Mon. Tues. Wed. Sat. 10 to 9 Thurs. Fri. 12 to 5 Sunday Organic Coffee & Tea es . h c ed .m n v a Lu ser 11 om fr 779-0095 5024 - 51st Avenue (across from Vista Theatre) Open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Weekdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday
Similar documents
January 2007 - WhitecourtWeb.com
arthway Massage Therapy (1989) Gail Marie Code, R.M.T.
More information