ASC extends cease trade order against Edmonton businessman Ronald Theodore
Cloutier and a number of his companies

CALGARY, Aug. 20 /CNW/ - The Alberta Securities Commission (ASC) has extended an Interim Cease Trade Order until February 18, 2011 against Edmonton businessman Ronald Theodore Cloutier and a number of companies owned and controlled by Cloutier, namely Venture Contractors Ltd., Viva Communications Ltd., Sunterra Resource Audit Equipment Ltd. and Sunterra Seismic Inc.

The order was based on allegations that Cloutier and his companies were illegally selling securities to Alberta investors and prohibits all trading in any securities issued by Cloutier or his companies. The order also prohibits Cloutier and his companies from trading in any securities, or using any Alberta securities laws exemptions.

Copies of the extended Interim Cease Trade Order, the original Interim Cease Trade Order, and Notice of Hearing can be found at www.albertasecurities.com.

ASC Staff are continuing their investigation into this matter. Anyone who has been contacted by someone from or on behalf of Ronald Theodore Cloutier, Venture Contractors Ltd., Viva Communications Ltd., Sunterra Resource Audit Equipment Ltd., and Sunterra Seismic Inc. seeking to sell investments is asked to contact the ASC Public Inquiries Office at 403-355-4151 or 1-877-355-4488. Investors are cautioned against sending money for securities or investment purposes to the named parties while the extended Interim Cease Trade Order is in effect.

The ASC is the regulatory agency responsible for administering the province's securities laws. It is entrusted to foster a fair and efficient capital market in Alberta and to protect investors. As a member of the Canadian Securities Administrators, the ASC works to improve, coordinate and harmonize the regulation of Canada's capital markets.

For further information: For Media Inquiries: Tamera Van Brunt, Director, Communications & Investor Education, 403.297.2664; For Investor Inquiries: ASC Public Inquiries, Toll Free 1.877.355.4488