As we write this on Friday, April 24, water and ice are both running in rivers, creeks, and ditches.
Well, not so much ice in ditches! But lots of water. And yes, people are talking about fields and yards still having an abundance of snow.
One person said of their own yard, “Last week it was four feet of snow. This week it’s still two feet.”
Which of course, has many people who saw flooding in the past keeping an eye on things. As you read this, with daytime temperatures expected in the 10 C or higher, that could turn out to be a good idea. So far, our own forecasting says freezing every night which might mean a steady thaw, not a rush.
As for crop seeding, one of our friends in the Fairview area says they might be lucky to get on the fields by the time the May long weekend rolls around.
We don’t have official numbers, but according to visitors and our own experience, the High Prairie Gun and Sportsmen Show had just about, if not the best, close to the best crowds ever. Estimates are over 5,500!
Reports from media across Canada are generally reporting glum business news, all due to the war in Iran. It’s said that in general, people are holding on to their money, waiting to see how things pan out there.
If there was any glumness at the High Prairie show, it wasn’t apparent from people The Page talked to at the show. The same with chatting people over the past week. Many people were impressed with the show. Even better, potential exhibitors saying they wished they had a booth at the show and are making plans for next year.
See photos throughout this newspaper. More photos online at southpeacenews.com.
Our information last week was the Open House for the Co-op Cardlock, not to be confused with the UFA Co-op) in High Prairie had regular fuel prices at 145.9.
That’s quite a drop from fuel prices at other outlets in High Prairie, which ranged from 156.9 to as high as 178.9. 178.9? That’s only a cent per litre cheaper than the price in High Level.
We all know the story. It costs a small fortune to get gas hauled all the way from refineries in Edmonton to High Prairie. Because you know, lakes have to be crossed. Maybe by barge. And then there are all those huge mountains. And High Prairie, well, it’s right at the top. And we haven’t even talked about the winds that slow big trucks down. Or the horrible traffic. Yup. Just a nightmare getting fuel to High Prairie.
So to get the same truck all the way to High Level, even further than from Edmonton to High Prairie well, its all downhill. Wind is from behind. No traffic. No barges. Easy peasey!
Must be all that, right?
Although, that doesn’t really explain why fuel was 151.9 in Grande Prairie. Or 161.9 in Joussard. Other prices:
Grimshaw 157.2
Fairview 154.9
Grande Cache 159.9
Fort McMurray 158.9
Fox Creek 155.9
Whitecourt 145.9
Valleyview 163.9
Slave Lake 155.9
Peace River 159.9
Red Earth 169.9
Be aware, some prices are lower because of bulk store card lock prices, compared to main street pump prices. Cheapest prices in Alberta, Westaskiwin 133.9 per litre, and Fas Gas Drayton Valley, 142.9.
Here’s a couple of historic items for thinking types:
First, the big “Casino Coming to High Prairie” that was on our local websites, and immediately jumped to the top of “Most Popular,” is still making the rounds.
Wow!
We have to extend thanks to all our readers who passed the story on to friends and relatives. Some did it for a sneaky laugh, as every good April Fools’ Day prank deserves to be passed on. And some took it seriously. Which of course, doubles and triples the fun. Good for all those who can laugh at themselves! All in all, good chuckle is good for everybody.
We also have to say, there were a few ideas kicking around the old office here before the big day. In the end, Chris Clegg topped the list. So, we will leave you with this thought – we won’t be able to top Clegg. So, you all are safe for next year!
Too bad our Adopt a Pothole program from Alberta Transportation, Big Lakes County and Town of High Prairie fell by the wayside.
Hee hee!
Our second thought has to do with those local weather forecasters, Peace River Patty, Kinuso Kennie, and all their cousins and brothers and sister who told us, “Yes, six more weeks of winter. Good chance of that.”
For those who can remember, it was a mixed bag of predictions, depending on what time the groundhog checked outside. The general consensus was six more weeks. Which we all interpreted to mean, spring about normal. But it’s now 12 weeks! So 11 weeks if the forecasted warmup actually happens this week.
Dang weather forecasters!
Bob was sitting at the table one morning, reading the paper after breakfast. He came across an article about a beautiful actress who was about to marry a football player known for his lack of IQ.
Be turned to his wife and said, “I’ll never understand why the biggest jerks get the most attractive wives.”
His wife was quick to reply.
“Thank you, sweetheart!”
Have a great week everyone!
Remember, spring is on the way! Really! It is trying!
