December 16, 2015

2015

Chronicle

Page 2 - Christmas Chronicle

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

A real life story of how Santa’s sleigh troubles were fi xed CCoffee Tree Coffee Shop

Wishing you and your loved s ones, peace, health, happiness and prosperity in the coming New Year.

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Stacey Lavllie Independent reporter

Like any child, Mary’s Christmas morning was a magical moment, where the Christmas tree lights seemed to shine just a bit brighter, the tinsel sparkled a little more sparkly, and there were brightly wrapped surprises below the boughs.

Mary, who asked not to be identified with her real name, understood better what sacrifices her parents had made to have the tree, the decorations, and the presents. Her mother worked two parttime jobs and her father drifted from job to job as a labourer, working on farms here-and-there to make ends meet.

During the summertime, when Mary’s grandmother would help by watching Mary and her siblings, her father would work around the clock. It was a time of

plenty, financially, but her parents lived as frugally as they did during the season of havenot winter, stashing the money away for emergencies and, if those didn’t come, Christmas.

“We never had much,” Mary said. “Our clothes were hand-me-downs, second-hand. We were teased at school.”

But Christmas always brought something new and something special to the household. Belief in Santa Claus lasted one or two years beyond what most people expected, a desperate clinging to a childhood where worries about money didn’t take front and centre, Mary said.

“We weren’t desperately poor,” she said.

“My parents always made ends meet. We had food, we had shelter, we had clothes. But we didn’t have much in the way of spares.”

Now in her 30s, Mary is a mother to two young children. Like her mother, she works two parttime jobs. She separated from the father of her children a few years ago, and child-support payments have been more miss than hit. But, like her own family, she makes ends meet.

“We have a roof over our head,” she said. “My children have clothes and are fed.”

With only one income, and despite help from her parents, who watch her children for her free of charge while she works, it’s been difficult.

“My eldest is old enough to understand that Santa Claus comes on Christmas eve, and leaves presents under the tree to be found the next morning,” Mary said.

“The youngest, not so much.”

Last year, just before Mary had started the limited Christmas shopping she had saved up for, her car slid off the road on her way home from work, causing expensive

front-end damage to the vehicle.

“My credit cards were maxed out,” she recalled.

“I barely had money for rent. Their father had been working in oil and was in between jobs. My parents had nothing to give to help out.”

With a heavy heart, knowing the vehicle needed to be repaired in order for her to continue to work and provide food and shelter, Mary spent the Christmas money on fixing her car. She also had to borrow from her parents, the very little they could afford to give.

That left her with one very large problem, though: What would she do about Christmas?

“How do you tell your kids that Santa’s not coming this year?”

Mary’s eyes filled with tears, her voice becoming emotional as she recalled that moment when she realized she had nothing to give.

“Santa never brought very much, but there was always something.” continued on page 3

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Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Christmas Chronicle - Page 3

continued from page 2 In her “ample spare time” between two jobs, Mary knits. She said the action calms her down and is a way for her to vent the frustrations of the day. One of her friends approached her, not knowing about the current financial difficulties, and asked her if she’d want to sew some mittens for her.

“I asked why,” Mary explained. “She was asking for more than just her kids.”

The friend told her about how she wanted to donate some good, home-knitted goods to the Stettler and District Hamper Society, to be distributed to families in the area in need.

Mary said she would, but admitted she didn’t have a lot of time. But she kept it in her mind as she knitted, making up a few pairs.

“I’ve always prided myself on not needing help,” Mary said. “We’ve never had to use the food bank.

We’ve always paid rent on time. Realizing you need help isn’t easy.”

But the memory of her child’s face as she told them about Santa having sleigh troubles this year haunted her. The tiny little face had crumpled and tears had run down that normally cheery face.

And so, her heart aching, Mary signed up for a hamper.

donation during the check stop,” Mary said. “Paying it forward. It’ll make someone else’s Christmas, and make sure Santa doesn’t have sleigh troubles.”

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A real life story of how Santa’s sleigh troubles were fixed

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Tidings Of Holiday Cheer “It was pretty easy,” Mary said of the process.

“You just put down your information and show you’re in genuine need, and provide some information about your children.”

Just days before Christmas, there was a knock at her door. Two hampers, one crammed with an “amazingly generous” amount of food, and a second with pyjamas, toys, books and other treats, awaited her in the hands of a volunteer.

“I thought I’d be mortified,” Mary said. “Utterly humiliated. Instead, I burst into tears. I was so happy, so grateful. Santa was coming. His sleigh troubles had been fixed.”

Christmas day consisted of a wonderful homecooked holiday meal, something that left everyone full and content. But the best part had been that morning, after her sad children, expecting Santa Claus to have skipped them, came down and saw parcels under the

tree.

“Mommy! Santa came!”

Recalling that moment made Mary choke up again.

“In that moment, I don’t think I’ve ever been so grateful to strangers,” Mary recalled. “The whole community was Santa Claus.

And better than the toys under the tree was the gift of joy that you gave us. The hope. That’s something I can’t ever repay.”

Over the year, while so many financial situations have become increasingly unstable as the oil industry struggles, Mary’s situation has improved. She’s no longer alone, and the second income means better food, better clothes, and a better home for her and her children. It also means Christmas wasn’t a desperate struggle of saving every nickel all year long.

Just because things are better this year doesn’t mean she forgot about Santa and his sleigh troubles.

“We left an anonymous

We at Stettler & District FCSS would like to thank the generous community for all of their amazing support over the 2015 year, and wish you all a very Safe and Happy Christmas, and New Year’s.

To all our “best” friends, both the four-legged and human variety, we wish all the blessings of this very special time of year.

We thank you for your friendship and support.

From the staff at the

STETTLER VETERINARY CLINIC 4605 - 51 Avenue, Stettler

403-742-3338

Page 4 - Christmas Chronicle

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Here’s hoping your holiday is truly sweet!

The best of the season to all!

We love What We Do …

And It Shows!

We you a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

In the spirit of giving Moush Sara John Independent reporter

Sending Warm Wishes Your Way —And hoping the holiday delivers a bundle of glad tidings to you and yours.

We’re always glad to serve you and we thank you for choosing us.

Central Alberta Co-op www.centralab.coop

Each year Santa’s helpers, in the form of members and volunteers from the Stettler and District Hamper Society, go door-todoor to spread joy and cheer through the streets of Stettler, handing out hampers to families and individuals.

Last year, 103 families were touched and this year Janelle Robinson, president, Stettler and District Hamper Society hopes they can reach out to more families, especially because of the economic environment.

“This year, considering our economic climate, we are fully prepared for a year higher in demand for hampers, that being said, we are also prepared for donations to be lower than last year,” said Robinson. “The two go hand in hand during years of financial stress for so many, but applications are up 30 per cent this year compared to last year.”

Being her fifth year of being involved with the hamper society, Robinson stepped into former chair Wendy Staal’s shoes three years ago.

“Wendy has worked very hard to streamline the process throughout the years, and I was honoured to be able to take over from her,” said Robinson. “We have amazing people who run each sub-committee, and I’m proud to say we work very well together to make the whole process happen in a few short weeks every year.”

Robinson grew up around Stettler and was always encouraged to be helpful in the community by her family.

After becoming a mother five years ago, she wanted to volunteer her time, helping children and families in the community.

“Christmas was a very special time for our family and I wanted to help ensure any families who may be struggling could still have a wonderful Christmas holiday,” said Robinson. “Fundraising for the Hamper Society is truly a community event.”

The hamper campaign was kicked off this year on Nov. 12 by placing the toy donation boxes at local businesses.

“Word is spread through

radio spots, word of mouth, social media, ads in local papers, and posters throughout town,” said Robinson. “Our radio station Q93.3 hosts the annual turkey drive every year in early December on our behalf, so many people contribute by holding their own fundraisers for us, and we’re floored by their generosity every year.”

The Duff children, in their second year of raising funds for the hamper via a bottle drive, have raised over $1,000 last year and are hoping to double that total this year.

Kathy Pivert organizes a pyjama drive so that all kids are sure to have new ones for Christmas.

Crossfit Stettler is having a ‘Toys for Burpees Drive’, for every time the toy donation box gets filled, the trainers will do 100 burpees.

The TA classes at the high school have chosen to support the hamper this year, and each class is fundraising in their own unique way to reach their monetary goal. continued on page 10

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Christmas Chronicle - Page 5

Being Santa Moush Sara John Independent reporter As December rolls in and Christmas events are hosted across Stettler, there is one comforting, familiar presence that brings joy and peals of laughter to the children, Santa Claus.

Speaking of how he came to assist, Dean Lovell said, “My family has been providing assistance to Santa Claus for over 70 years in Stettler.”

Lovell’s grandfather, Les Lovell founded the “Les Lovell Santa Clause Agency” and was given the ‘gift’ to assist Santa Claus throughout his life.

“My cousin Greg Lovell became the next in line to work for the ‘Big Guy’ and I have been given the gift, to work for the agency for the last 16

years,” said Lovell.

This gets him to have an insight into what the latest trends in toys are.

“Every year I get to hear what the most popu-

lar toys are, and that has been very interesting,” added Lovell. “Elmo certainly was big 12 or 13 years ago, and I still get requests for him!”

All Aboard

For Another Great Season!

According to Lovell, Barbie is certainly the

most popular gift every year for girls, she has “amazing staying power” year after year.

“Lego and trucks are always big for the boys, besides iPods, iPads and iPhones, which have been big too, especially over the past five to six years,” said Lovell. “Live animals, dogs, cats, and even horses are common requests, but unfortunately there is a rule about no live animals in the sleigh, so they are not granted very often.”

Lovell said, “Boyfriends are requested by older girls, but unfortunately we have no extra elves to spare, so we do not fulfill that wish very often.”

Speaking of other re-

quests, Lovell said that money was another big one, but Santa is not big on giving out cash.

“Some of the tough ones are requests for a cure for cancer, or wanting their mom or dad to come home, and those ones take a piece of my heart, as Christmas is not always about toys and things for some kids, it is about something way bigger, that the man in the big red suit just can’t bring down the chimney!” said Lovell.

While Lovell was growing up, he remembers as a kid that his notion of Santa Claus was someone who knew everything about him and his family. continued on page 6

With Best Wishes & Gratitude To Our Many Good Friends This Holiday Season In the course of doing business this past year, we feel blessed to have made many new acquantinces, while enjoying the opportunity to serve many of you whom we know so well.

The Staff and Management of the Stettler RBC wishes everyone a safe and happy Holiday Season.

ALBERTA PRAIRIE RAILWAY

4920 51 St. Stettler, AB

403-742-9269

Phone 403-742-2811 Located at: 4611 - 47 Ave., Stettler

With greetings and gratitude to all of you at this joyous time of year.

We are proud to serve people like you and thank you for your continued support.

JT Auto Body Ltd.

4606 - 40 Street, Stettler

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From Dale, Irene and staff

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Page 6 - Christmas Chronicle

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Being Santa continued from page 5 “I recall that he sounded a lot like my grandfather, and his knowledge of my brother and I was amazing, but I had no Idea for the longest time about my grandfather’s gift in helping out Santa,” reminisced Lovell. “I

have memories of me on his knee in the Jewel theatre getting a Christmas orange, and being absolutely amazed at how he knew so much about me.”

According to Lovell, as a child Christmas was closely intertwined with Santa Claus and the “magic” and “innocence” that he recalls as a child, one

HAPPY HOLIDAYS Hope your holiday season is filled with joy & happiness!

With special thanks and best wishes from us.

Gary G. Grant Law Office Barrister & Solicitor

of the reasons why “we all bring our kids to see Santa, our memories that we made and stored away in our mind, and that feeling of wonderment and awe that we had as kids, we want all kids to experience that”.

“Once that door opens that exposes us to some of the truths about Santa, it

also closes behind us, we cannot go back through that door, and I believe we all want to get a “little” of that magic back,” continued Lovell. “The gift that my family and I have been given, is that we get to see that ‘magic’ in the eyes of each child that climbs up, on our knee – the wonderment,

anticipation, innocence, and sometimes a little fear!”

Lovell considers the opportunity of assisting Santa Claus every year is a rare gift.

“It is a gift that very few people get to experience, of looking in a child’s eyes and witnessing the ‘magic’ of

Santa Clause,” added Lovell. “And the best way I have to describe it is a quote from Dr. Seuss’s ‘The Grinch that Stole Christmas’, which says ‘Well, in Whoville they say that the Grinch’s small heart grew three sizes that day. And then - the true meaning of Christmas came through!”

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To All Our GOOD FRIENDS At The Holidays From these Donalda & area businesses From all of us, to all of you, go our warm wishes for the brightest holiday season ever! You’ve helped make this a wonderful year for us and we look forward to serving you in the new year!

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As Christmas draws near, we wish you a season filled with heartwarming memories as you celebrate with those near and dear to you.

We want you to know that your patronage means a lot to us, and we’re proud to have you as our customer.

Thanks, folks!

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Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Christmas Chronicle - Page 7

Christmas message from Christ-King Catholic Church The child born to us on this day, so long ago, is the eternal God, and the Son given to us in that birth is Emmanuel, God with us.

The meaning of Christmas is that God the divine Son, who existed from all eternity in the heart of the Father, was born of the Virgin Mary and became man. He became a human being as real as you and I. He redeemed only what he took. If he had not taken our full human nature, body and soul, He would not have redeemed our human stock. He became everything we are, except in the area of sin.

“The word was made flesh and dwelt among us...” (John 1:14).

He was the Son of the Father for an eternity before He became the Son of Mary in time.

While Christmas is a wonderful occasion for gathering together of family and friends, it is important to not lose sight of its basic religious meaning. Let us receive Him, adore Him, and share our love, peace, and happiness with Him and with one another during this season.

May you rejoice in the celebration of Christ’s birthday with all the gifts, the family gatherings, the feast and the joy among us. Have a merry and blessed Christmas.

Christmas is embodiment of “Brilliant” “Brilliant!” is the exclamation which a little angel uses repeatedly in the script we’ve chosen for our Christmas Pageant at Stettler United Church.

Armies of angels and visions of the possible unfold. Brilliant!

Celebration, rather than scandal, when one who is fully human is pregnant with love divine. Brilliant!

Love extended and strangers befriended in the midst of economic, social and political upheaval. Brilliant!

People – the peasants first among them – turn away from predictable and vengeful behaviours and listen so as to believe deeply. Brilliant!

The Christmas story is timeless and true because it’s about real things.

People seeking refuge -longing for good news, security, and serenity -find that a baby’s birth lights up their lives and draws them together creatively, peacefully and joyously. Brilliant!

Experiencing the sacred is just that; brilliant! No explanations necessary. Proclamation is the means to the end of the story. We’re invited into the pageantry; the living nativity of bringing “Peace on earth; goodwill to all.”

May it be so, Merry Christmas from Jan Richardson, in ministry with Stettler United Church.

Father Don Ihekwoaba Pastor, Christ-King Church, Stettler With well wishes to our patients and their families during this festive time of year. We thank you for the privilege of caring for you. Merry Christmas!

“Good “Good friends friends are are hard hard to to fifind, nd, harder harder to to leave,and leave,and impossible impossible to to forget.” forget.”

With With this this thought, thought, we we wish wish you you aa very very Merry Christmas, all the Happiest Merry Christmas, all the Happiest Holidays Holidays and and all all the the luck luck the the New New Year Year could could possibly possibly bring bring you. you.

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Page 8 - Christmas Chronicle

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

The Shiyr Poets entertain Stettler crowd with upbeat gospel music Moush Sara John Independent reporter It was an evening of great food and entertainment as the Stettler community was treated to a festive dinner and upbeat soulful music by The Shiyr Poets on Saturday evening, Dec. 6 at the Stettler Community Hall.

Speaking of the event, Pastor Ross Helgeton said, “The church has had an annual Christmas banquet for many years and it would typically be attached to the Sunday school concert at the church and be held in the church building,” said Pastor Ross. “However, several years ago, we began to run out of space in our fellowship hall and at my suggestion, we moved the banquet into town and made it more of a community event.”

It was easy to see that the evening was geared towards family and community as people from Stettler and surrounding areas filled up the hall.

“We have had Jeanette Petkau, Phil Callaway, John Bauer, and the Freedom Singers, among others as entertainers, “ added Pastor Ross. “But this evening’s entertainment by The Shiyr Poets has been outstanding.”

Pastor Ross explained that the primary reason for selecting them was their talent and ability to present a strong Christian message “without being obtrusive, which is how I try to present the Christian message.”

Speaking of his message to the community this year, Pastor Ross said, “We should remember and try to focus upon the real reason for the season.”

“God’s love gift to this world was his only Son Jesus and the Christmas celebration should essentially be about Him,” said Pastor Ross. “When He is crowded out, we are left with stress, overfull schedules, overeating, too many parties and hangovers and very little in the way of peace.”

The event was not a fundraiser.

“The event was something that we do to connect with our community, to present a relaxing evening, with a great meal and good solid Christian entertainment,” added Pastor Ross.

The funds gathered from the evening are used to defray the cost of the banquet itself and the price of the ticket is geared towards breaking even if possible.

There were approximately 360 tickets sold and the crowd was estimated at 350 strong.

This is a huge increment from the first year when there only 170 people, approxiMoush Sara John/Independent reporter mately.

This little girl is absorbed in the gospel music played

by The Shiyr Poets on “It has grown a little bit each year and last year the head count was estimatSaturday evening, Dec. 6 at the Stettler Community Hall. ed at 335 or near that,” concluded Pastor Ross.

Wishing you peace, joy, and all the best this wonderful holiday has to offer.

May this incredible time of giving and spending time with family bring you joy that lasts throughout the year.

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Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Christmas Chronicle - Page 9

How do others celebrate Christmas?

Stacey Lavallie Independent reporter In North America, Christianity is built into the fabric of every day lives. Our countries celebrate Christian holidays, advertising has commercialized them, and nearly everyone celebrates Christmas in some fashion, Christian or not.

Growing up in this environment can make it difficult to imagine parts of the country where Christmas isn’t celebrated with nativity scenes or jolly St. Nicholas. So how is Christmas celebrated in other parts of the world?

India Gurvir Sidhu has lived in Canada now for slightly more than three years, and his wife Baljinder has lived here now for two. The two immigrated from a northern state in India, and practice the Sikh faith.

From their windows hang Christmas lights.

“Sikh means ‘A learner,’” Gurvir Sidhu explained. “You learn throughout your life.”

“It means to have love for everybody,” Baljinder Sidhu added.

The faith means acceptance of all and helping those in need, including donating a portion of their income to help those in less fortunate circumstances. The area in India from which they hail is predominately Sikh and Hindu.

“There are four major faiths in India,” Gurvir Sidhu explained. “Sikh, Hindu, Christian and Muslim,” he said.

Depending on where you live in India, there are larger Christian communities. In those areas where there are higher concentrations of Christians, the Christmas holiday bleeds into everyday life.

But during November and December, India celebrates the festival of Diwali, meaning that there’s lights and pleas-

antness everywhere, Sidhus explained.

Diwali is the “festival of lights,” and people and businesses hang lights, much like our Christmas lights.

In fact, the Sidhus note, their lights aren’t Christmas lights per se, but a celebration of Diwali.

“It runs from midNovember until the New Year,” Gurvir Sidhu explained.

The overlapping of Christmas with Diwali reveals itself as December plods on and it is closer and closer to Christmas.

Christmas trees appear in stores and Santa Claus reveals himself in more and more advantageous commercial ways.

Baljinder Sidhu remembers in school that Christmas was celebrated in its own way.

“One of the elder students takes on the role of Santa Claus and hands out candy to the younger students,” she recalled.

“And there’s presents on

Christmas morning, under pillows or the bed.”

Australia & New Zealand Steph Davies hails from Australia. Though she doesn’t identify herself as a Christian, Christmas was always celebrated in her home.

“Christmas was in the middle of summer,” Davies recalled. “Watermelon and cold chicken, and fake snow in the shop windows.”

Despite the heat, which at times was well over 30 degrees Celsius, Davies and her family still had a Christmas tree, which was carefully decorated.

Real snow was something she didn’t see in person until she moved to the United Kingdom. But other than the snow, the cold, and the hot food – and a lack of swimming at the beach – Christmas is much like it is in Australia.

Samuel Lee came from New Zealand to Stettler to work as a veterinarian,

and is experiencing his first white Christmas this year.

“It’s a very different Christmas in New Zealand,” Lee said. Like Australia, New Zealand’s Christmas falls in the midst of the summer season.

“We still put up a tree, but the main Christmas activities are barbecues,” Lee explained. “Christmas day is celebrated outside – grab a beer, a sausage on a bun.”

With a vast amount of shoreline in New Zealand, like their Australian neighbours many New Zealanders spend Christmas day at the beach, swimming and enjoying the sun and heat.

Lee said the Christmas lights and the nativity scenes he’s seen around town have been made all the more impressive with the snow, something he’s appreciating despite the cold.

“It seems rather weird to have cold at Christmas,” he admitted.

A traditional Christmas treat that’s made at Christmas in New Zealand is a meringue-like confection called pavlova. It’s decorated with cream and kiwi slices.

Across the channel in Australia, Davies said watermelon and Christmas pudding is a “big thing.”

Christmas pudding, sometimes also known as plum pudding, actually has no plums – plum being a word used for raisins at the time of the treat’s origin. Made of dried fruits held together by egg and suet, and sometimes held together with molasses (a.k.a.

Treacle), Davies said theirs had a coins baked inside.

“It’s lucky to get a coin,” she said.

Is Christmas celebrated in a different way where you come from?

Join us on Facebook to tell the Independent readers about your Christmas traditions.

MERRY CHRISTMAS from our entire team

With best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to one and all.

TORNADO Combustion Technologies Inc. 403-244-3333

Page 10 - Christmas Chronicle

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

In the spirit of giving continued from page 4 “These are merely a few of the fundraisers that are happening right now, but each year Stettler and area residents and businesses blow us away with their support,” added Robinson. “I feel very lucky to be working alongside the other members of our committee, they are all very hardworking, community minded people.”

To ensure that an item on a child’s wish list is included in the hamper, Taylor Hebert, president of the toy committee works continuously with her team.

Having been involved with the committee for four years, Hebert was raised with the mentality that “you have one hand to help yourself and one hand to help others.”

“What better time of year than Christmas to help others,” said Hebert.

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“The amazing members of this community and local businesses raise the funds on their own, and the generosity of this town has been amazing.”

According to Hebert, the annual charity check stop is great for the toy committee.

Donation bins for toys located all over town and at FCSS are always full.

“Some businesses even do their own toy drives with their staff and customers,” added Hebert. “Members of the churches in this community and the high school always ensure they find a way to give back to the hamper as well.”

Speaking of the drive and the spirit of giving, Robinson said, “Stettler shines at this time of year, seeing the amount that the people in our area give to those in need is truly heart warming and is the biggest inspiration for me to keep giving in any way I can.”

From these Big Valley businesses Christmas is such a wonderful time because it brings family and friends together in celebration. We hope all your family and friends are able to gather together to share this very special time of year.

Thank you for your business and Happy Holidays from our home to yours.

Hulley's Hideaway Art Gallery 403-876-2737

cell: 403-740-3507

Jensen Contract Flooring Ltd. 250-862-2574

Village of Big Valley 403-876-2269 www.villageofbigvalley.ca

Muhlbach Electric Ltd. 403-876-2587

To Our Valued Customers At This Special Time Of Year To all of those who’ve stopped by here, we wish a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Thank you for the support.

The team at

403-742-2266

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Christmas Chronicle - Page 11

Red Velvet Cake for your Christmas party Ingredients : 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 2 ounces red food coloring 1 cup buttermilk 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup shortening 1 1/2 cups white sugar 2 eggs 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon white vinegar 1 cup milk 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup white sugar 1 cup butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

To make icing: In a saucepan, combine the milk and 5 tablespoons flour. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens.

Set aside to cool completely. Cream together butter, 1 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until light and fluffy, then

Here’s hoping your holiday is filled with good cheer!

Thanks to our loyal customers.

SANTA’S EXPRESS

Reid Volker Construction Ltd. Stettler

403-742-5288

Season’s Greetings Best wishes for the holidays and for health and happiness throughout the coming year.

From the staff at

stir in the cooled milk and flour mixture, beating until icing reaches

Directions Prep 15 m Cook 35 m Ready In 55 m Grease two 9-inch round pans. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Make a paste of cocoa and food coloring.

Set aside.

Combine the buttermilk, salt and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together the shortening and 1 1/2 cups sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the cocoa mixture. Beat in the buttermilk mixture alternately with the flour, mixing just until incorporated. Stir together baking soda and vinegar, then gently fold into the cake batter.

Pour batter into prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before frosting. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Sending Christmas Greetings Your Way

spreading consistency.

Tip Aluminum foil can be

used to keep food moist, cook it evenly, and make clean-up easier.

4819 - 49 Street, Stettler 403-742-3315 Toll Free: 1-888-942-3315 www.brennenfuneralhome.com

With Warm Regards At Christmas

Merr y Christmas Wherever you go, we wish you a world of happiness this holiday season!

Thank you for your patronage.

Bestway Travel

It may be cold outside, but our hearts are warmed by thoughts of WKH PDQ\ JRRG WLPHV ZH·YH KDG VHUYLQJ \RX WKLV \HDU <RXU IULHQGVKLS KDV PDGH LW DOO ZRUWKZKLOH 0HUU\ &KULVWPDV DQG WKDQNV IRU DOO \RXU VXSSRUW

From the Staff at:

May all the sweet Magic of Christmas conspire to gladden your hearts and fill every desire.

We hope your Christmas is unforgettable!

May this season bring you success, good times and happiness!

Diane & staff

Beat the chill with winter!

Check out our selection of warm winter gear including FR, Wrangler, Carhartt and more!!

FR

“Wanna get fresh?”

Diane Andrews, owner

4812 - 50 St., Stettler

403-742-2725

5006 - 50 Street, Stettler

403-742-8290

It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year…

But we loved every moment of serving you this past year, too!

Merry Christmas and heartfelt thanks for your continued patronage.

4701 - 50 Street

CENTRAL

403-742-3344 (24 hrs.)

Page 12 - Christmas Chronicle

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Christmas quotes Instead of being a time of unusual behavior, Christmas is perhaps the only time in the year when people can obey their natural impulses and express their true sentiments without feeling self-conscious and, perhaps, foolish. Christmas, in short, is about the only chance a man has to be himself.

Francis C. Farley

Holiday Greetings from Us to You Thank you to our loyal customers and may the Love, Joy and Peace of the Christmas Spirit be with you and your family during the festive holidays and throughout the year.

From Murray, Mary-Lou & staff at

Manson’s Welding & Canadian

Good news from heaven the angels bring, Glad tidings to the earth they sing: To us this day a child is given, To crown us with the joy of heaven.

Martin Luther What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future.

It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace.

Agnes M. Pharo I am not alone at all, I thought. I was never alone at all. And that, of course, is the message of Christmas. We are never alone. Not when the night is darkest, the wind coldest, the world seemingly most indifferent. For this is still the time God chooses. ~ Taylor Caldwell

the common sense solution to secondary containment

Ph: 403-742-2967 www.enviro-tub.com

Until one feels the spirit of Christmas, there is no Christmas. All else is outward

display so much tinsel and decorations. For it isn’t the holly, it isn’t the snow. It isn’t the tree not the firelight’s glow. It’s the warmth that comes to the hearts of men when the Christmas spirit returns again.

Unknown Ask your children two questions this Christmas. First: What do you want to give to others for Christmas? Second: What do you want for Christmas? The first fosters generosity of heart and an outward focus.

The second can breed selfishness if not tempered by the first. ~ Author Unknown Off to one side sits a group of shepherds.

They sit silently on the floor, perhaps perplexed, perhaps in awe, no doubt in amazement. Their night watch had been interrupted by an explosion of light from heaven and a symphony of angels. God goes to those who have time to hear him and so on this cloudless night he went to simple shepherds. ~ Max Lucado Christmas, my child, is love in action. ~ Dale Evans May your Christmas sparkle with moments of love, laughter and goodwill, And may the year ahead be full of contentment and joy.

Merry Christmas to all.

IN THIS SEASON OF GIVING… In the spirit of community, we’ve gathered together to wish our friends, neighbours, customers and associates a very merry season and a prosperous new year. We’re deeply grateful for your loyal support and look forward to serving you again, soon.

Village of Halkirk 403-884-2464

TANKSTORE LTD.

403-884-2233

Horseshoe Trailer Repairs 403-884-2173 Happy Holidays Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday season from all of us at

CHAPMAN AND CO. PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS LLP

4702 - 51 Ave., Stettler, AB • 403-742-3438 • gchap@gchap.ca

May the

Christmas Season fill your home with joy, your heart with love and you life with laughter.

403-884-2001

Halkirk Snack Shack 403-884-2008

Wishing you and yours a very blessed Christmas!

JIM RENSCHLER CONSTRUCTION LTD. “39 Years of Experience” Box 22, Botha, Alta.

Fax: 403-742-5311

403-742-5034

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Christmas Chronicle - Page 13 Dear Santa I have been a really good girl this year and have been a big helper with my new sister Kamryn.

For Christmas I would like a new barbie house.

I think my sister Kamryn would like a ride on toy.

We will have some cookies and milk ready for you on Christmas eve.

Love Kalli & Kamryn Dear Santa, My name is Julia and I am 4 years old. I have been a very good girl this year. My mom even told me so. I keep my room clean and help my mom with the dishes. I hope you, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph, all the other reindeer and all the elves had a great summer. I sure did. We went camping a lot. For Christmas I would love a Barbie camper, Barbie pool, a scooter and a new housecoat. I will leave you some milk and cookies. For Rudolph and the reindeer I will leave them some carrots and dip.

Thank you Santa!

Love Julia Dear Santa How is everyone doing in the North Pole? This year for Christmas I would like a rock

and a little one that matches please and thank you. I am going to leave apples and carrots for your reindeer. And a glass of chocolate milk and a snack. Mom tries to get me to eat healthy so you might end up with carrot or celery sticks. I hope you have a safe trip.

Love Brya Comeau tumbler, a little live pet. I would like a bird or a turtle. The last thing I would like is zommer kitty. Could you please tell me how Frostbit my elf on shelf is doing? Thank you for all you do!

Love your friend Hanna Lindstrom P.S. Thanks for the nice text you sent me.

Dear Santa, Please bring me something very special. I don‛t know what I want yet.

Love Alexis Jackson 6 years old To Santa I want an art set please.

Love Olivia Jordan 4 years old Dear Santa and Mrs. Clause My name is Brya and I am 3 yrs old. My mommy is writ-

ing this for me because I can‛t write yet. I don‛t live in Nova Scotia any more, but my cousin CJ moved back so please don‛t forget about him. I really love the colour purple so anything purple would make me happy.

I love baby dolls and the little mermaid. I would really love a very big share bear carebear

Dear Santa, This year for Christmas, I would like a Moyu dosu 4x4 – Dixon Drum stool, Moyu Skewb, Moyo pyraminx, Shenshou 10x10 or Moyu 13x13, Xbox one or 360, PSA or PS3, meffert‛s gear ball, Moyu tanglong, Moyu tangpo, Dayan guhong V2. But most of all, I want my family.

Josh Nixon, Box 1892, T0C 2L0

Season’s Greetings & Many Thanks for your support.

Wishing you a truly blessed Christmas & all the best in 2016!

Lorne & Marci Toews & family

403-323-8824 ackhoe, Excavato toews.zenith@gmail.com Gravel Truck

A Toast to Our Fine Friends & Customers At this very special time of year, we raise our glasses full of cheer, to all the neighbours near and dear, who make it fun to do business here!

Thanks for popping in on us!

We hope your holiday is filled with reasons to celebrate.

We’re making a list of all the people we’d like to send a big thanks to this year and your name is on it!

With Best wishes for a very joyous and merry season.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

59th STREET LIQUOR STORE LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED Hwy. 56, South

403-742-4540

Rejoice in the spirit of Christmas which is Peace, the miracle of Christmas which is Hope, and the heart of Christmas which is Love.

Our sincerest thanks and warmest wishes for the holiday season and throughout the New Year!

“We’re big enough to handle it and small enough to care!”

www.brennanautobody.com

From Kirk & Tera Blake and staff at

ELECTRIC (2006) INC. ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING IF IT'S ELECTRICAL, WE DO IT

5002 - 46 St. Stettler

403-742-5111

Wishing all our customers, a happy and safe Christmas holiday filled with a large measure of peace, joy and merriment.

It's an honour to serve you, and for your faith in us, we are truly grateful.

SAVAGE VALUE DRUG MART Scott Savage

403-742-3367

Christmas Message ~Mayor Dick Richards ~

On behalf of Town of Stettler Council and Staff I would like to extend warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year! At this happy and joyous time of year please remember those less fortunate than ourselves. Enjoy your time with your families and loved ones and if you are travelling please be safe.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from our families to yours. May Peace and Joy of the Season be with you.

Page 14 - Christmas Chronicle To Santa For Christmas could you bring me a Snackeez and a air hog and a horse vet clinic. One last thig I have in mynd is a beat light wave speaker.

Thank-you Santa Love Charlee Derr Dear Santa Mommy and Daddy are helping

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

me with your letter because I don‛t know how to write yet. I think I have been a good girl this year. I think you would like to give me a T-rex dinosaur toy, a Frozen sticker book

The management and staff of

Johnson Connor Agencies Wish you and your families a happy Holiday Season and the best in the New Year.

Merry Christmas!

Wishing you and your family a great holiday season.

BOND-O

Draculaura Monster High Doll, unicorns, a toy bird, mirmaids, fairies, barbies, princesses, Nile the crocodile scentsy buddy, more painting stuff, new shirts, new shoes, well how about just any girl stuff.

I can‛t decide I just love them all and want them all. Thank you Santa Ella Dobbie

and maybe an Elsa towel, just like my cousin Caroline. I think you would like to give my little brother Logan (I call him Yogi Bear) a baby T-rex toy, a spinosaurus, and “nothin‛ else.”

We will leave you some milk and cookies and some vegetables for your reindeer. I love you Santa.

Lucy LeClair xoxo (3 years old) Hi Santa My name is Alix, I am 4 years old. I am so excited for you to come to my house. Can you please bring me a crazy pen, Mirmaide Dora that lights up and swims just like my sisters, a new monster high shirt, a skeleton, a balloon, a Jinafire Monster high doll, or all of them would be great, I just love them so much. Thank you Santa Alix Dobbie

Dear Santa Have I ever been on the nauty list? What‛s your favorite food? Is it fun making toys? Do you have any pets? I hope you like my picture. Is it fun seeing all the trees of the world? What‛s Paris like?

What‛s the best toy you ever made? How old are you? How did you become Santa? Would you like me to write more often? Did you even meet xirdra the fairy? How did you come immortal? I don‛t want all the things on my list but just choices.

Fairy house hole set, fairy books, L.S.P. Dragon, my own china tea set for 6 (flowers), a nesting place puzzle, James and the giant Peach book, The edge Croninces book 2. For my dog a collar, dog food, water bowl and food bowl and a jack russel pupp for dads (pretty please).

Drew Rouse

Dear Santa For Christmas I would like Copic markers, a black jell pen, thick papper, a robot cat, a sleeping cat that looks like its breathing, new head phoans, a gatar and a drum set please!

Piper

Hi Santa My name is Ella. I am 5 years old. I am a girl but you probably already know that because

Merry Christmas Chris and the staff at

Numera Tax & Accounting Services

Stettler, AB

403-742-4399

866-742-8558 Toll Free www.bond-ocommunications.com

Dear Santa Hello! I hope you have a very good Christmas!

Luke Dear Santa For Christmas this year I would like Edward The Switch Train from Thomas & Friends.

I would also like Lightning McQueen cars, some chocolate and choc Santa. I will leave you some milk & cookies out on Christmas Eve. Jesse

We’re sporting our holiday cheer To thank you for your visit here And no matter what you play May it all go smoothly this holiday!

from

TI O N S C CA O NI U MM

you watch me. I can‛t wait for you to come to my house, I love you so much. I would love it if you could please bring me a

Dear Santa How‛s your Holiday going? I don‛t care what you get me for Christmas But I would like you and Mrs. Claus to have a great Christmas with your elves. And I would like a starlily if you don‛t mind. Preaty please with a cherry on top!

Thank you!!

Love Kayla Jo Have a happy Holiday! Santa Claus. Please bring our elf.

Stop in and see us at our new location 4840 - 50 St.

Sharing with you the Glory, the Wonder, the Miracle of this Holy Season.

Season’s Greetings from Ken, Lenore & Staff of

GUNS ‘N’ GAMES

With tidings of comfort and joy, we extend bright wishes.

We greatly appreciate your friendship and goodwill.

Have a Blessed Christmas and New Year!

rry Me

Christ

s Left to Right: Scott Roberts, Lars Deschering,

From left to right: Don Hewlett, Ron Matchett, Julie Don Hewlett, Julie Carey, Dean Hewlett. Missing: Carey, Scott Roberts and Dean Hewlett.

Missing: Kurt George, Ron Matchett, Sophie Hewlett, Brock Kurt George, Ryan Mielke and Sophie Hewlett.

Anderson.

From the staff at

Tim, Rita & staff 4706 - 44 Ave., Stettler

403-742-5237

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Christmas Chronicle - Page 15

Christmas is Almost Here! sled, a big lalaloopsy and sunglasses.

Love Savannah Santa For Christmas I would like a Dora doll with a walking dog.

It has a collar and leash that comes off. We will leave your milk and cookies out for you on

Dear Santa How are your reindeer? I love the reindeers. I have been good all year. I would like a new sled (preferably green), more bulls for my farm, a minion or paw patrol book and a new

truck that is green.

Love Easton

Christmas eve.

Thank you

Before the season really takes off, we wanted to wish everyone all good things for the holidays and beyond.

Thanks so much for your support and continued patronage!

Chloe

6HDPV 5LJKW $OWHUDWLRQV

Santa I really want tommy for Christmas. Thomas the train track would be awesome! I really love trains.

Thank you Jaden

Cindy Zimmermann

Wishing you and yours a dose of good cheer and a large measure of happiness this holiday season. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud to care for people like you, and thank you for your trust in us.

Dear Santa I love Santa. I am 5 years old.

I have been good. I would like a monster high Frankie, a new

From the staff of

403-742-1537

Ponoka 403-783-5561

Rimbey 403-843-2439

www.vjvauction.com

Page 16 - Christmas Chronicle

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Seasons Greetings!

4201-49 Ave, Stettler

Wishes you a Safe & Happy Holiday Season 4201 - 49 Ave., Stettler, AB

403-742-0200

Wishing you a happy holiday!

4201 - 49 Ave., Stettler, AB

403-742-2899

info@jenexpress.net

403-742-0200

Your Stettler Downtown Business Association invites you to

5pm - 9pm

The Night Before The Night Before

Dirt Road Pretty Clothing

Wednesday, December 23rd on Main Street

Cabinet of Curiosities

Free Cupcakes & Hot Toddies

Free Holiday Grab Bags

FREE TRAIN RIDES

FREE MOVIES

9:30am - 8pm

VISIT WITH SANTA

FREE HAY RIDES

TO BE ANNOUNCED

Home Hardware

Free Hot Apple Cider & Popcorn

Scotiabank

Free Hot Chocolate &Treats

10am - 4pm

Stettler Mobile Solutions

Free Candy Bags for Kids 9am - 9pm Suzanne’s & Jenny’s

Free Shortbread & Apple Cider 11am - 9pm

9am - 9pm

Provided by Alberta Prairie Railway John’s

10am, 12pm, 2pm & 4pm

Free Cookies & Apple Cider

FREE for Everyone – Donations of food or $5 to the food bank appreciated.

Ride for a chance to WIN $500* and other great prizes

9am - 9pm

Prize sponsored by Alberta Prairie Railway & SDBA, given in Heart of Alberta dollars*

Lawlor Jewelry

Panda Flowers

Free Hot Chocolate

Free Calendars

4pm - 10pm

10am - 9pm

Little Keepsakes

Pfeiffer House of Music

Free Candy Bags 9am - 10pm

Free Baked Treats 5pm - 9pm

5pm – 8pm

1pm and 3:30pm at the Jewel Theatre Bring donation for Food Bank

FREE REFRESHMENTS AND OTHER EVENTS AT MANY DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES!

12pm – 4pm provided by Wells Furniture

provided by Cervus Equipment Stettler Pickups at Christmas Tree Intersection, Home Hardware & Lawlor Jewelry

ADDITIONAL EVENT CO-SPONSORS:

WISH Kitchen & Gift

Tom’s Boots

Free Sweet Treats 9am - 9pm

Wares Jewelers

Free Gourmet Free Apple Cider Treats Dips & Tea & Christmas 4pm - 10pm 5pm - 9pm

Word of Life Church

Live Performances, Treats & Santa 5:30pm - 8pm

Wells Furniture

Free Hot Dogs, Hot Chocolate & Candy Bags 12pm - 4pm