Observer Christmas Edition December 17, 2011

THE OBSERVER

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

CHRISTMAS in Concert

1 WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

FREE PERFORMANCES Saturday, December 17 (3:30 & 7:00pm) Sunday, December 18 (3:30pm)

www.ChristmasInConcert.com

M Ch err ristm y as!

VOLUME.....16 ISSUE.........50

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2011

IN

Music to put you in the Christmas spirit

GOOD

VOICE

Josh Snethlage sings My Favorite Time of Year during a rehearsal Tuesday for Koinonia Christian Fellowship’s Christmas in Concert. There will be four shows performed in Bloomingdale this weekend.

See the story on page 12.

It is going to be a great night of Christmas music — the best of Christmas music..

Heidi Fleming

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS 2

THE OBSERVER

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

Merry Christmas!

H AROLD

ALBRECHT

Member of Parliament, Kitchener-Conestoga

Please join me in giving the

Gift of Life

at a Blood Donor Clinic Friday, December 30th 2011, 9:30am - 3:30pm Lions Hall, 40 South St West Elmira ON N3B 1L7 Whether or not you can donate, please enjoy a coffee and a cookie!

Merry Christmas, and best wishes for 2012.

153 Country Hill Drive Unit 2A Kitchener ON N2E 2G7 www.HaroldAlbrechtMP.ca 519.578.3777

y a d i l o H e t a k S

g n i t a k S e e Fr

Nothing gives us the feeling of Christmas like Christmas Songs, Hot Chocolate and Skating — all of which will be available on Skating Christmas Party Eve.

Dec 24 9am-11am WMC - Dan Snyder Arena

Shinny Party

Dec 24 9am-10am WMC - McLeod Arena

Enjoy the holidays!

All courtesy of:

THE OBSERVER

3 WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

Santa’s little helpers

Post office employees have provided more than 20 million answers to letters addressed to the North Pole over the past three decades anada Post offices across the country are extremely busy this time of year with many letters and packages being sent out with hopes of being delivered before Christmas Day. Without a doubt the address that receives the most letters is one farther north than any Canadian city. Currently, more than one million children write to Santa Claus at his ‘North Pole, H0H 0H0’ address. Each and every letter that is received and includes a return address will receive a reply from ol’ Saint Nick.

The return-letter program that began more than 30 years ago is also a very important part of the holiday season for thousands of Canada Post employees who help Santa respond to all the letters he receives. There are more than 9,000 employees, called Postal Elves, who help Santa to ensure that every child’s letter gets an answer in the language in which the letter was written, including Braille.

some really heartwarming letters over the years.

“Last year I had one from a young girl who had just been adopted and she described how happy she

» COLIN DEWAR

C

Each elf spends over 21 hours answering Santa letters over the holiday season.

This year the post office will be delivering its 20 millionth Santa letter, with 1.25 million letters being sent out across Canada.

The Elmira post office is expecting to see a few hundred Santa letters come through the door and one of Santa’s postal elves, Kerry Mills, could not be more thrilled.

Mills has been helping Santa for three years and enjoys personally reading every letter he can from the children in the area.

“Santa is a very busy guy and can’t answer all the letters he receives by himself,” said Mills during a quick coffee break from letter writing, adding he has r e a d

> SEE LETTERS ON PG. 05

PHOTO

Colin Dewar

GIVING SAINT NICK A HAND There are more than 9,000 postal elves working across Canada answering letters sent in from children to Santa. The post office expects to deliver its 20 millionth letter from Santa this year.

Happy Holidays!

Wishing everyone peace & joy this Christmas Season.

25 Earl Martin Drive, Elmira

519-669-5377

Wishing You & Your Loved Ones All The Trimmings Of A Spectacular Season.

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year!

Toll Free (In Canada 1-888-569-8843) • Fax: 1-519-669-5982 Web: www.martinmills.com E-mail: info@marbro.com

PO Box 130, Elmira | 519-669-5171

3031 Lobsinger Line, Heidelberg 519-699-4590 Mon.-Wed. 8-6; Thurs.-Fri. 8-8; Saturday 7:30-5 visit us online at www.stemmlermeats.ca

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS 4

from

75 Rankin St. Waterloo 519-746-6000 www.dunnheating.com

THE OBSERVER

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

from

Bonnie’s Chick Hatchery Ltd. Linwood | 519-698-2000

18 Arthur St. N., Elmira | 519-669-2561

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! | MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

We wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas from all of us at

Hanukkah y p p a H , a a z n a w K y z Kra Christmas Randy Ramadan, CFoezstyivus!

And a Frolicking Mind the “One” who Matters.

Have a...

24 Hour Accident Assistance

1-800-CARSTAR

Here’s hoping every happiness comes your way throughout this holiday season and beyond.

Paul & Adèle’s

Sulco Chemicals Limited 60 First St. E., Elmira • 519-669-5166

But Above All, Keep In From all of us at:

Rudow’s Carstar Collision Centre A Division of Rudows Autobody Limited

Car Rentals at Rudows 519.669.4981

33 First St. E., Elmira | 519.669.3373

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Wishing You A Merry Christmas

Wishing you and your families a Merry Christmas

Celebrate His birth this Christmas Season.

GERBER “Where Quality Comes First”

Bauman LASER & ELECTROLYSIS HAIR REMOVAL

519-669-0237

519-210-0327

AUCTIONS LTD. • Real Estate • Farm • Estate Phone.......519.699.4451 or 519.698.0138 Cell............519.498.7126

3044 Sawmill Rd., St. Jacobs, ON 519-664-3711

519-210-0411

SEASON’S GREETINGS! | SEASON’S GREETINGS! | SEASON’S GREETINGS | SEASON’S GREETINGS!

Dr. Carole Wilkinson & Dr. Chad Chhatwal

May you and your family experience joy, love and peace this Christmas Season.

O P T O M E T R I S T

Wish to announce the following Holiday Hours:

THANKS FOR A GREAT 2011!

From David & Karen Martin & Family and all the staff at

CLOSED

The Best Price is from Richmond Heating & Air.

Dec. 25th, 26th & Jan. 1st.

Warmest Season’s Greetings!

www.stirtonconstruction.ca 8012 8th Line., RR #2 Drayton | 519-638-5462

1-2633 Hergott Rd., St Clements

Call Today! Phone: 519-699-1118 FAX: 519-699-5273

www.richmondheatingandair.com

HIGH EFFICIENCY HEATING | NATURAL GAS PIPING | SEE US FOR GOVERNMENT REBATES ON FURNACE & AIR CONDITIONERS

THE OBSERVER

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

5 WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

Letters: Providing that personal touch > CONTINUED FROM PG. 03 was to be with her new family,” he said. “That kind of thing is why it is fun to do this: you open up a letter and you are blown away with what these kids are writing.”

Mills said the first letters usually start coming in just after Thanksgiving but the bulk show up after the Elmira Santa Claus parade, as the post office runs a truck in the

parade just to collect the many letters from kids on the side of the street waiting to see Santa.

Right now Mills has quite a stack of letters to answer and promises to get them all done before Christmas arrives.

All the response letters are made personal and signed by Santa and sometimes include a note from the man in red himself.

“I really enjoy doing this and it is great to

see that kids are still into Santa Claus. With everything that changes for kids, Santa Claus is still constant – all the commercial stuff that surrounds Christmas the little kids still see it with their hearts.”

Mills has seen letters from kids ranging in age from 3 to 12, and they all ask for some sort of toy. Over the years the specifics have changed with the fads that follow them

but for the most part kids still just want a toy to play with on Christmas day.

“I read every letter that comes in and it is quite a delight because you never know what you will find in those envelopes. Some kids have pages of items of what that they want, others have cut out images from magazines and there are some that just ask for one thing – it is really great to see all the variety.”

Happy Holidays!

ECRA/ESA Lic # 7000404 INDUSTRIAL | COMMERCIAL | RESIDENTIAL | ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING | MAINTENANCE

Dr. Linda Franchetto | 519.846.8400

SANYO CANADIAN

Next to the Grand River Raceway

MACHINE WORKS INCORPORATED

www.eloragorgeanimalhospital.com

64 HOWARD AVE., ELMIRA | 519.669.1461

Season’s Greetings

Yuletide Wishes

to you and yours W o o d s, Clemens & Fletcher

Best Wishes to you and your family this Holiday Season from staff & management

for a season filled with caring and sharing with those near and dear to your heart.

Law Office

Over 25 Years Experience

519.669.8511

9 Memorial Ave.

26 Wellington St. S.

Elmira, Ontario N3B 2Z6 Drayton, Ontario N0G 1P0 Telephone: 519-669-5101 Telephone: 519-638-5767

toll free 1.888.669.8511 www.freysflowers.com

CJ

Brubacher Ltd. 519.669.3362

19 First Street East, Elmira

DUB-L-E ESSO 390 Arthur Street South, Elmira

519-669-2015

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS 6

THE OBSERVER

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

Family

From the St aff

Is anything more special at Christmas time than the love and warmth we get from spending time with friends and family?

at C.H. Soeh ner Insuran ce

O/A

Ltd.

And this year more than ever we are humbled by the support we feel from our family of customers. We just want to say thank you, and from the Forbes family to your family, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS... MERRY CHRISTMAS!

C.H. Soehner Insurance

Fairest in Sales… Finest in Service Since 1948

INSURANCE - INVESTMENTS - FINANCIAL SERVICES

“Insuring Your Future Together”

519-669-1661 Elmira ON.

www.betterinsurance.ca www.hjminsurance.com

Our heartfelt thanks to all our friends, whether far or near...

165 Weber St. S., Waterloo | 519.742.4463 | 1.800.387.5337

OHoly Night May the glory of the season shine

... we wish you a Merry Christmas, and a wonderful New Year!

upon you and those around you.

Home of:

Tel: 519-884-7070 1657 Cox Creek Road

61 Arthur St. S., Elmira | 519-669-5419

West Montrose

THE OBSERVER

7 WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

May faith be your guide during this holy season.

We appreciate the good faith you`ve shown us this year.

from all of us at

Conestogo | 519-664-2237 Mount Forest | 519-323-1880 Tavistock | 519-655-3777

14 Arthur St. N., Elmira 519-669-2722

www.ptdrivereducation.ca

1540 Floradale Rd., Elmira 519.669.5105 | www.mgmill.com

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! | MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Thank you for your patronage.

We look forward to seeing you in the New Year.

Wishing you a beautiful holiday and a new year of peace and happiness

Baking | Fabric | China | Giftware | Clothing | Groceries

SYD SNIDER

OWNER/MANAGER

100 Bonnie Crescent, Elmira | 519.669.1949

HILLCREST Home Baking

2192 Floradale Rd.

519-669-1381

Making the cars of the world more comfortable

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Prince of Peace At this time of year, let us remember the true meaning of Christmas — the miracle of a babe, born in a manager. May his love ring out to the world. Peace on Earth, good will towards men.

Ltd.

RESIDENTIAL & AGRICULTURAL

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from all of us

at Marwil Concrete Construction Ltd. CALL NOW TO BOOK YOUR SPRING 2012 PROJECTS

519-638-2699

519-669-0264 64 Howard Ave. Elmira, ON

35 Howard Avenue, Elmira

519-669-3232

SEASON’S GREETINGS! | SEASON’S GREETINGS! | SEASON’S GREETINGS | SEASON’S GREETINGS!

Thank You for Your Patronage.

Wishing you a safe and Happy Holiday!

A U M A N P R I N T I N G

5205 Ament Ln., Linwood | 519-698-2215

4 Herbert St. Elmira, Ontario Phone: 519-669-2540 Fax: 519-669-3451

Wishing You All The Best In 2012. www.talbot-promo.com

ELMIRA, ONTARIO Phone 519-669-8550

CALENDARS - GIFTS - APPAREL - LABELS

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS 8

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

THE OBSERVER

BILL NORRIS

SALES REPRESENTATIVE DIRECT:

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

OFFICE: FAX:

allibauman@rogers.com

billnorris@rogers.com

DIRECT:

519-577-6248

519-669-5426 519-669-7619

Santa meets the Grinch

Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., Brokerage

ALLI BAUMAN

3 Arthur St. S., Elmira, ON N3B 2M4

519-588-1348

PHOTO

» COLIN DEWAR

Bill and Alli would like to wish their clients, friends, and families a very Merry Christmas and all the best and good health in the New Year!

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

IT MUST BE CHRISTMAS Alexzander Haley, 7, had his face painted like the Grinch when he sat down with Santa Claus at the St. Jacobs Community centre on Dec. 10. Hundreds of children came out to see Santa and Mrs. Claus at the breakfast.

www.elmiraandareahomes.com

Merry Christmas and

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2: 11

Happy New Year

We wish to thank each and every one of our customers for their support this year. May you have a Wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

from all of us at

Elo, Florence, Darrell, Dianne, Walter, Jason C., Jason S. & Josh.

4790 Herrgott Rd., Wallenstein,

mas - New Year

4 1/2”W x 5”H

519-669-2192

www.efsaudersales.ca

519.669.3933 | 17A INDUSTRIAL DR., ELMIRA www.zimmermancustomflooring.com

“Serving your lawn & garden needs since 1975”

General : Xmas - New Year General : Xmas - New Year General : Xmas - New Year

Merry Chritsmas

4 1/2”W x 5”H 4 1/2”W x 5”H 4 1/2”W x 5”H

from all of us at

armest wishes Greetings for aSeasons wonderful holiday.

Warmest wishes Warmest wishes and best wishes for the New Year. fora wonderful a wonderful holiday. for holiday.

for asights, wonderful holiday. est sounds, merriest holiday joys, brightest delights...

I would like to thank you for your business over the past year and We would like to wish everyone a joys, safebrightest and happy ey be yours this season.

Cheeriest sounds, merriest sights, holiday wish you and yourmerriest family a sights, safe and happy holiday.

Cheeriest sounds, holiday joys, brightest delights... delights... holiday and thank all of our clients for their business. may may they they be be yours yours this this season. season.

100%

Largest 100% Canadian multi-product insurer.

Largest 100% Canadian multi-product insurer.

Largest 100% multi-product Home Auto Canadian Life Investments Group Business Farm Travel Canadian multi-product insurer. insurer.

Home Auto Life Investments Group Business Farm Travel Home Auto Life Investments Group Business Farm Travel

Auto Life Investments Group Business Farm Your Agency Name Travel Agent Name, 123 Street Address, City/Town Your Agency Name Your Agency Name Agent Name, 123 Street (000) Address, City/Town 456-7890 Agent Name, 123 Street Address, City/Town

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Allen & Suzanne Morrison, Your Agency Name (000) 456-7890 (000) 456-7890 Photo Karen, Linda,Address, Allison & Steve Agent Name, 123 Street City/Town Here 456-7890 25 INDUSTRIAL DRIVE, (000) ELMIRA | TEL: 519-669-2632 allen_morrison_insurance@cooperators.ca

MACHINE & REPAIR INC. SPLINE CUTTING | LARGE TURNING KEYING (INTERNAL & EXTERNAL) CNC Turning

Same Day Service RYAN WEBER | 519.669.2198 Unit 2, 84 Howard Ave., Elmira www.rytechmachine.ca

With each passing cold winter’s night, may your spirts be warmed by the company of good friends Holiday Hours: December 24......8am-6pm December 25..........Closed December 26... 10am-6pm December 31....8am-10pm January 1................Closed

11 ARTHUR ST. N. ELMIRA | 519.669.1653

Open 8am to 10pm, 7 days a week

THE OBSERVER

9 WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

May the timeless message of Christmas fill your heart and home with joy today and throughout the coming year.

As another holiday season draws to a close, we’d just like to thank all of the faces that have graced our doors and wish everyone a peaceful, relaxing New Year.

Serving you for over 100 Years No No high high pressure pressure sales, sales, just just quality quality products products at at competitive competitive prices. prices.

HOLIDAY HOURS

Dec 24 8-3 | Dec 25 & 26 Closed | Dec 27 12-5 Dec 31 8-3 | Jan 1 Closed | Jan 2 12-5 1421 King St. N, Downtown St. Jacobs 519-664-3301 | www.homefurniture.ca

NOW EARN AEROPLAN® MILES ®Aeroplan is a registered trademark of Aeroplan Limited Partnership.

1145 Printery Road, St. Jacobs Tel: 519.664.2263 | Fax: 519.664.3369 www.stjacobsprintery.com

Season’s Greetings

This holiday season, we gratefully pause to wish you the many blessings of Christmas and a peaceful and a prosperous new year.

3435 Broadway St., Hawkesville

519-699-4641

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS 10

Gifts

THE OBSERVER

Quality Products a Accessorie nd s from the Wood burner

Hearth for the

Bellows

Kettles

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

Season’s Greetings

A GREAT SELECTION OF GIFT BASKETS, WICKER TRAYS AND OUR “BIG BOX OF NUTS”

GIFT BOXES Including Vic Gibbons print “Early Snow” - Gift Packages to suit all tastes and prices

Stove Heat Fans

Fireplace Screens & Doors

Hearth Racks

Tool Sets

www.thewoodburner.com 396 Victoria St. N., Kitchener | tel: 519.578.9663 STORE HOURS: Mon.-Wed. 9-6; Thur.-Fri. 9-8; Saturday 9-5; Sunday 11-4

*See store for details.

Peanuts

ST. JACOBS - Corner of Sawmill Rd. & HWY. #86

519-664-2400

Sale runs Dec. 17- 31

il ack Od l B s e 50lb er Se

5 9 .

6 2 $

low Sun�

0 $33.0 . g e R

50lbs Martha’s All Purpose

$19.99

50lbs Reg. $24.99 Nyjer Seed

$37.99

Reg. $ 49.99

SAVE S A V E SAVE 5%

15 % 50%

THE SHOPS AT ROXTON o

Fruit Baskets

1 Union nion St., Elmira Elmi • 519.669.1115 519 669 11 marthasmixes@rogers.com

HOURS: Mon. - Sat. 9:30am - 5:30pm

We Deliver!

315

THE OBSERVER

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

MAKES A GREAT STOCKING STUFFER!

11 WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

SHOOTER’S CHOICE ALL YOUR SHOOTING NEEDS UNDER ONE ROOF

15 First St. E., Elmira | 519-669-2833 | www.elmirabowl.com

AS M T S I CHR E! L A S E TRE GET THEM WHILE THEY LAST! Gore Park Elmira

Support your local Scouts

631 COLBY DR., WATERLOO, ON. N2V 1B4 P: 519.746.8139 F: 519.746.6394

s • Meat Platters • Cheese Trays • Vegetable Trays

And so much more!

5 Arthur St. S. • 519-669-5403

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS 12

THE OBSERVER

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

I

t may not look a whole lot like Christmas outside, but step into Koinonia Christian Fellowship and it’s a different story: the Bloomingdale church and academy is gearing up for its third annual Christmas in Concert.

“It is going to be a great night of Christmas music – the best of Christmas music.

There will be traditional, classical, big band, jazz and acoustic, with a variety and a mix of everything,” said Koinonia’s Heidi Fleming of the music, singing and dancing in store this weekend.

There are four performances scheduled, starting Friday night when the church hosts its second annual dessert café allowing 240 paid guests to enjoy gourmet cakes and desserts before the eve-

ning performance. The Friday show has been sold out for weeks.

Saturday offers two free performances, a matinee starting at 3:30 p.m. and the evening show starting at 7 p.m. All seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with doors opening a halfhour before show times Sunday’s show is the final performance starting at 3:30 p.m.

The show is close to 90 minutes in length including a 20-minute intermission. The church can seat close to 800 audience members with plans to fill every performance including the Sunday matinee, which is the most popular show.

“There will be a lot of Christmas carols performed by soloists, ensembles, trios, and the whole group including the band and our 100-voice choir, which

PHOTO

Colin Dewar

» COLIN DEWAR

Koinonia Christian Fellowship continues holiday tradition with free concerts

LET THERE BE MUSIC Tom Vint (right) plays with the trumpet section at the Koinonia Christmas in Concert rehearsal held on Tuesday. The concert will offer a 100-member choir, full band, soloists and dancers.

is really a big feature,” said Fleming. “There are also a few dance numbers including a jazz/ragtime dance.”

Anyone attending should expect to hear classic carols like O Holy Night and God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Go Tell it on the Mountain, Silver Bells,

and Joy to the World.

The first song of the night will be My Favorite Time of Year

by Josh Snethlage and backed by the concert choir, a fun Christmas song to get the audience in the mood and sets the tone for the entire show, which is all about the Christmas spirit.

HEATING & AIR CONDITONING

Air Purification Systems

Krukowski Setting The Performance Standard

3836 Manser Rd., Linwood | 519-698-1137

Seasons Greetings

to you and yours

> SEE CONCERT ON PG. 17

DISPOSAL INC.

Merry Christmas and sincere thanks to our customers and friends this holiday season.

from Mike

35 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

Jingle Bell Rag dance number while the concert choir sings partway through the first set.

The church has been preparing for the concert over the last few months, gathering songs and preparing the numbers with re-

PLEIN

Greetings of the Season Propane & Natural Gas Piping

Music director Steve Warner and choir conductor Karen Thorne have worked tirelessly with producer and director Kathryn Hofer to create a seamless performance for guests to enjoy, said Fleming.

Hofer wears a lot of hats in this production, as she performs in a

Hours: Tues. Wed.Thurs. 9-6 Friday 9-8 Saturday 9-5

www.kitchenkuttings.com

2 Arthur Street S., Elmira | 519.669.8225

Merry Christmas!

25 Earl Martin Dr., Elmira, N3B 3L4 519-669-5136

May

J y

Christmas

THOMPSON’S AUTO TECH INC.

30 Oriole Pkwy., E. | 519-669-4400 thompsonsauto.ca

Surround You

Our Best Wishes to you and your family.

Thank You for placing your trust in us.

Monty Steenson & Grace Maher It’s the happiest time of the year, and it’s customers like you who make our work worthwhile. Thanks so much for your generous support.

Kleensweep Carpet Care COLLEEN • Cell: 519-581-7868 Call 519-669-2033 “A Good Job Done Every Time” RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • PERSONALIZED SERVICE • FREE ESTIMATES

We feel very blessed to have you as our customers and proud to call you friends!

Double R Automotive

2316 Floradale Road, Floradale, ON

519-669-8818

62 Arthur St. S., Elmira | 519.669.2207

THE OBSERVER

13 WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

Linwood

"We have seen His star in the East, and have come to worship Him." Matthew 2:2

Christmas is here, and we hope the season delivers much happiness and good fortune to you and yours!

We appreciate the year-round support of good friends like you, and we wish you all the best at Christmastime and throughout the new year.

Contour Directional

Drilling

Ltd.

Underground Utility Contracting

374 Arthur Street S., P.O. Box 66, Elmira

Phone: 519-669-3390 Fax: 519-669-5786

Blessings from afar This Christmas we hope that all of your prayers are answered and your days are filled with the gifts of the season.

Snider Bros. Furniture 19 Arthur Street, Elmira - 519-669-5077

5158a Ament Line, Linwood

519-698-2060

STORE HOURS: Mon.- Fri. 8-6; Saturdays 8:30-5:30, Sundays Closed

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! | MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! Best Wishes for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season from all of us at the Sip & Bite Restaurant!

Our sincere thanks for your valued business.

We appreciate having you as our customer and look forward to serving you in the New Year.

9 Church St. E., Elmira www.elmiravacuumelectrical.ca

HOLIDAY HOURS: Dec. 24 : 7:00 am - 2:00 pm Dec. 25 : CLOSED Dec. 26: CLOSED Dec. 31 : 7:00 am - 2:00 pm Jan 1 : CLOSED

To All of our clients and friends, we wish a happy holiday and the very best for the new year!

Sip & Bite 650 Riverbend Road Suite D, Kitchener

519-884-4445

www.rlb.ca

Home Cooking

39 Arthur St. S., Elmira • 519-669-8991

SEASON’S GREETINGS! | SEASON’S GREETINGS! | SEASON’S GREETINGS | SEASON’S GREETINGS!

Give

Glory To God

We’re counting our blessings this holiday season, and your kind friendship is among them.

With thanks and best wishes from our family to yours for a very merry Christmas and a healthy, prosperous new year.

South West Ontario Veterinary Service

1010 Industrial Crs., St. Clements Phone: 519.699.0600

Merry Christmas SINCE

STOP BY FOR A COMPLIMENTARY 2012 WALL CALENDAR. TWO LOCATIONS to serve YOU better.

1946

SALES & SERVICE

47 Northside Dr., St. Jacobs, ON

519-664-2281

1011 Industrial Cres., Unit #2. St. Clements Waterloo Sales Centre, 230 Regina St. N. Waterloo, ON.

Lobsinger Line

Hergott Road

Happy Holidays!

Industrial Cres.

(tel) 519-699-5411 (fax) 519-699-5412

www.floorsfirst.com/stclementsheartandhome/

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS 14

THE OBSERVER

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

FA LA LA LA LA Children sing songs from on top of a float as they pass through the village.

HOLIDAY EXPRESS

Members of the Wellesley Applejacks rode a train float as they wished people a happy holiday during the evening parade Dec. 9.

PhotosbyColinDewar

THE MAN OF THE HOUR The man everyone was waiting for, Santa Claus, did not disappoint his young fans.

THE IDOL JOB

All wrapped up in a blanket, Wellesley Idol winner Ali Caroll made an appearance.

ROLLIN’ ALONG BLAST FROM THE PAST A vintage fire truck from Wilmot made an appearance during the festivities.

A member of the Mocha Shriners makes his way down the parade route in a convertible punch bug.

THE OBSERVER

15 WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

ring in the new year.

We would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Prosperous New Year!

Wishing you a festive season filled with good friends, good times, and glad tidings.

Thanks for making it all worthwhile!

Bill & Heather MacKenzie 5-695 McMurray Rd., Waterloo

Trust The Professionals

746-8333

Helping Our Clients Achieve Their Business Objectives.

McCarter Grespan Beynon Weir l.l.p. barristers & solicitors 675 Riverbend Drive, Kitchener | 519.571.8800

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! | MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! “Jesus is our hope for peace on earth, for peace of heart.

May Christ be newborn in our world and in your heart this Christmas”

RIVERDALE POULTRY EXPRESS

Season’s Greetings & Best Wishes for the Holidays.

St Jacobs Branch 1410 King Street North St Jacobs, ON (519) 664-2201

May joy, love and peace warm your hearts this holiday season.

Elmira Ontario

3785 Nafziger Rd., Wellesley 519.656.3083

® Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS! | HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Warmest thoughts & best wishes for a great Holiday 270 Arthur St. N., Elmira, ON

Chateau Gardens Elmira

Rejoice

Assisted Living Centre

8 Snyder Avenue North Elmira, ON

Call 519-669-4111

519.669.8420 After Hours Cell: 519.577.1459

95 Southfield Dr., Elmira | 519-669-1842

TRUCK & TRAILER REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

www.chartwellreit.ca

SEASON’S GREETINGS! | SEASON’S GREETINGS! | SEASON’S GREETINGS | SEASON’S GREETINGS!

from ONTARIO LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE

PHONE: 519-884-2082 FAX: 519-884-0509

May your holidays be merry & bright!

ESA Licence #7000438

Christmas is a time when we all remember what it was like to be a child: the fresh-baked cookies, the fresh scent of the tree, the twinkling lights... ... may you and yours create warm memories this holiday season.

Elmira, Ont.

PH: 519-669-2145 FAX: 519-669-9654

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS 16

THE OBSERVER

Dr. Lawrence Mohan,

Family Dentist, & his staff wish their patients & friends a...

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

Christmas Blessings!

Merry Christmas & Happy Healthy New Year

Rejoice as we celebrate the birth of our Saviour.

Wishing the happiest of holidays to all our friends and neighbours.

From all of us: Wil Lichty, Mark King, Lee Clemens, Kerry Mullen, Brittany Hahn

2 Park Ave. E. Elmira 519.669.2961

Dr. Lawrence Mohan FAMILY DENTIST

Elmira Insurance Brokers

100 Union St., Elmira

Woolwich Rentals

Limited

519.669.0524

45 Arthur St. S., Elmira | 519.669.5484

Reist Industries

519.669.1501

www.woolwichrentals.ca www.reistindustries.com

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! | MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Best H ol i d a y Wishes!

merry christmas & a happy new year

Merry Christmas Happy

&

SPECIALIZING IN PAINT & WALLCOVERINGS

Read’ s SINCE 1961

•

D

E

C

O

R

A

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•

27 Arthur St. S., Elmira

519-669-3658

!

From all of us at...

ELMIRA SERVICE CENTRE

16 Church St. E., ELMIRA

519-669-8502

New Year

315 ARTHUR ST. S., ELMIRA 519.669.5403

SEASON’S GREETINGS! | SEASON’S GREETINGS! | SEASON’S GREETINGS | SEASON’S GREETINGS!

Wishing our clients, friends and families all the best during this holiday season.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at:

From our family to yours. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

K&K LIQUIDATION Kathy, Kevin and Staff would like to thank you for your patronage throughout the year.

& AUCTION LTD.

WINTER HOURS | FRIDAYS 10AM-6PM | SATURDAYS 9AM-4PM

1070 Industrial Cres., St. Clements TEL: 519.699-9496

1011 Industrial Cres., Unit 3, ST. CLEMENTS

519.699.6084

[From South of Lobsinger Ln. onto Hergott Rd., then onto Industrial Cres.]

TOTAL HOME ENERGY SYSTEMS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

24-HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

11 HENRY ST. - UNIT 9, ST. JACOBS

519-664-2008 or 1-800-410-1141

THE OBSERVER

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

Concert: Ready for a busy weekend > CONTINUED FROM PG. 12 hearsals beginning last month.

“It is not promoted as a church service event; it is a concert of great Christmas music that anyone can enjoy no matter their background. We call it our Christmas card to the community and hope people just come in and enjoy the show,” said Fleming, who is involved in the production singing in both

the choir and in a trio performing the classic, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas just before the finale of Sing Noel, Sing Hallelujah, the church’s traditional choir coral piece to close the show.

“There are a lot of highs and lows to the show but the beat stays constant and the audience is taken on a little journey,” said Fleming. “It is great for the whole family.”

The Koinonia Chris-

17 WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

tian Fellowship presentation of Christmas in Concert runs Dec. 17 (3:30 and 7 p.m.) and Dec. 18 (3:30 p.m.) at 850 Sawmill Rd. in Bloomingdale.

There is no cost to attend. For more information, call 519-744-7447 or go online at www.ChristmasInConcert.com.

ALL THE BRASS Larissa Beney (left) on the flute and Joanna Cyr on the saxophone perform during the Koinonia Christmas in Concert rehearsal.

Merry y Christmas

We share the same

JOYS OF THE SEASON May the holidays bring you the joy of friends and family.

Warm wishes to all of you for a joyous holiday season.

Jeff Watkin, Agent 151 Frobisher Drive Waterloo, ON N2V 2C9 Bus: 519-886-4470 jeff.watkin.icjk@statefarm.com

to you and your family.

2080 Northfield Dr. E, RR2

519.669.1616

Providing Insurance and Financial Services P055024CN 11/05

statefarm.ca™ State Farm • Canadian Head Office: Aurora, Ontario

Many thanks for your continued patronage.

• RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL Call for your FREE estimate

519.669.8776 ~ ELMIRA www.dentechelectric.com

irits be May your sp uty of bea lifted by the season. s u ro d n o w this stmas and Merry Chri Year!

Happy New

ehler, Weber, Ken Bu Top row: Dale er zg et Tony M Bev Wendland, inson St an hris Self & D Bottom row: C

Your total home improvement contractor!

Renovations | Additions | Windows Doors | Siding | Decks | Railings

3 Elora St. S, Alma | www.buehlerauto.com

Floradale, Ontario 519-669-3392

3585 Ament Line. RR #3 Wallenstein | 519.699.4236 Web: www.waymar.on.ca | Email: admin@waymar.on.ca

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS 18

THE OBSERVER

Our wish may be old-fashioned, but it still holds true.

Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year, too!

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

Let there be light...

1205 KING ST. N., ST. JACOBS

519.664-2226

...and song.

Y O U R ONLINE SO URCE OF L O C A L NEWS.

.com

www.

Through these doors...

LIGHTING IT UP IN ST. CLEMENTS Kitchener-Conestoga MP Harold Albrecht was the guest of honour on Dec. 3 where he lit the St. Clements Tree of Light. Hundreds attended the event to enjoy cookies, cider and carols.

e with May Peace b his you during t on. as Christmas Se

GOOD AUTO PARTS

Pass the Nicest People in the World!

YOU’LL FIND IT AT

At this holiday season there is no more appropirate time to say “Thank You” and express to you and yours every happiness for this beautiful season and throughout the coming year.

CARQUEST!

Linda Dreveny BONNIE BRUBACHER

Broker of Record

SHANNA ROZEMA Broker

LAURIE LANGDON Sales Rep.

MONIQUE ROES Sales Rep.

MARILYN CURRY Admin.

ELMIRA REAL ESTATE SERVICES, BROKERAGE

519-669-3192 | 90 EARL MARTIN DR., UNIT 1, ELMIRA, N3B 3L4

Sales Representative

www.soldbylinda.ca | linda@soldbylinda.ca

Office: 519-888-7110 Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., Brokerage Independently Owned and Operated 180 Weber St. S., Waterloo

Elmira 81 Arthur St. S. 519-669-1533

Fergus 390 Beatty Lane 519-843-1620

Erin 4 Erinville Drive 519-833-9785

The son is born!

For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

from

- Luke 2:11

Waters & Hastings Have A Great Holiday!

21 Arthur St. S., Elmira

519.669.1641

chastings@waters-hastings.on.ca

One KM south of Winterbourne

265 Katherine St. S.

519-664-3701

Call to Order

Government Inspected

519-698-9930 • 519-698-2213

THE OBSERVER

19 WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

ABOUT FACE

Choir provides songs of the season as St. Clements illuminates Tree of Light

A REASON TO SING Members of the St. Clements Catholic Church choir sang carols following the lighting of the St. Clements Tree of Light on Dec. 3. The 40-foot steel pole included 3,850 lights and the fundraiser collected almost $5,000 for the Paradise and District Lions Club to continue their charitable work throughout the community.

PHOTO » JAMES JACKSON

MRS CLAUS, Wife of Santa Claus What are you doing in St. Jacobs?

I am here wishing kids from the area a Merry Christmas and giving out candy canes and colouring books.

You must be very busy this time of year. Are you looking forward to December 26?

I can’t wait. We have been very busy and I am looking for some time off.

What are your plans for the New Year?

I think we are going on a vacation this year, somewhere warm.

What is Santa like when he

comes home from delivering all the presents?

He is very tired and needs to sleep for a long time, but he enjoys every minute of it.

Who is your favorite reindeer?

I can’t choose just one. They are all very “deer” to me.

Season’s Greetings Wishing you the all the best this season and a happy, prosperous new year!

From the staff and families of Premier Equipment.

Independently Owned and Operated

Wishing you & your family a safe & healthy holiday season!

“You dream...We’ll work.”

17 17 Church Church St. St. W., W., Elmira Elmira wendy.taylor1@rogers.blackberry.net marylou@mmrealestate.ca

Merry Christmas!

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May your home be filled with laughter and fun this holiday season.

Thank You for your patronage over this past year. ~ Two professionals working with you!!!

-369(+(3, -,,+ 4033 3040;,+ Finest in feeds and service for over 50 years!

-369(+(3, -,,+ 4033 3040;,+

BusÊ519.669.5478 Finest in feeds and service for over 50 years!

TollÊFreeÊ1.800.265.6126 WebsiteÊwww.ffmltd.comÊ

BusÊ519.669.5478 TollÊFreeÊ1.800.265.6126 WebsiteÊwww.ffmltd.comÊ

Wendy Taylor BROKER MANAGER

24hrs 519-669-1544 24hrs

Mary Lou Murray SALES REPRESENTATIVE

www.peakrealestate.com

MARTIN’S PHARMACY

PHARMACIST Alan S. Martin B.Sc. Phm

10 Parkside Drive, ST. JACOBS 519.664.3785 FREE DELIVERY IN ST. JACOBS, ELMIRA, WOOLWICH TOWNSHIP & NORTH WATERLOO

More Power. Less Fuel. Great Value is a comparison between the entire current Chrysler Canada lineup and the entire 2011 Chrysler Canada lineup. Wise customers read the fine print: •, *, ♦, †, ∞, § The Stuffed With Savings Event offers are limited time offers which apply to retail deliveries of selected new and unused models purchased from participating retailers between December 1 and December 22, 2011. Retailer order/trade may be necessary. Offers subject to change and may be extended without notice. See participating retailers for complete details and conditions. •$19,995 Purchase Price applies to 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package (29E) only and includes $8,000 Consumer Cash Discount. $19,995 Purchase Price applies to 2012 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package (22F) only and includes $2,000 Consumer Cash Discount. See participating retailers for complete details. Pricing includes freight ($1,400), air tax (if applicable), tire levy and OMVIC fee. Pricing excludes licence, insurance, registration, any retailer administration fees, other retailer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. Retailer order/trade may be necessary. Retailers may sell for less. *Consumer Cash Discounts are offered on select 2011/2012 vehicles and are manufacturer-to-retailer incentives, which are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. Amounts vary by vehicle. See your retailer for complete details. ♦The $500 Holiday Bonus Cash offer includes applicable taxes and is available on the retail purchase/lease of the following eligible vehicles between December 1, 2011 and January 3, 2012 at participating retailers: any new 2011/2012 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram or FIAT model excluding only the following: Chrysler 200 LX, Dodge Journey Canada Value Package/SE Plus (22F & 22G), Grand Caravan Canada Value Package, Grand Caravan Cargo Van (C/V), Avenger SE/Canada Value Package, Caliber SE, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, Wrangler Sport, Compass Sport 4x2 & 4x4 (base 24D, 25D, 26D & 2BD), Patriot Sport 4x2 & 4x4 (base 24D, 25D, 26D, 2BD & 28D), Ram Cargo Van (C/V), 1500 Reg Cab 4x2 & 4x4, and Cab & Chassis 4x2 & 4x4 models. $500 Bonus Cash will be deducted from the negotiated purchase price after taxes or may be used, at customer’s option, to reduce their first monthly payment or towards the purchase of Mopar accessories or service packages. Some conditions apply. See your retailer for complete details. †4.99% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package (29E)/2012 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package (22F) model to qualified customers on approved credit through Royal Bank of Canada and Scotiabank. Retailer order/trade may be necessary. Retailer may sell for less. See your retailer for complete details.

Examples: 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package (29E)/2012 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package (22F) with a Purchase Price of $19,995/$19,995 (including applicable Consumer Cash Discount) financed at 4.99% over 96 months with $0 down payment, equals 208 bi-weekly payments of $117/$117 with a cost of borrowing of $4,297/$4,297 and a total obligation of $24,291.83/$24,291.83.

Pricing includes freight ($1,400), air tax (if applicable), tire levy and OMVIC fee. Pricing excludes licence, insurance, registration, any retailer administration fees, other retailer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. Retailer order/trade may be necessary. Retailer may sell for less ∞No Purchase Necessary. Contest opens 9:00AM ET December 1, 2011 and closes 11:59PM ET December 22, 2011. One (1) Grand Prize available to be won, consisting of a cheque for the total purchase price of the new Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge or Ram vehicle purchased, plus $10,000. A random draw will be held on January 9, 2012 in Oakville, ON. Must be a resident of Ontario and be the age of majority. Odds of winning depend on the total number of eligible entries received. Correct answer to a mathematical skill-testing question required.

Limited to one entry per person. For complete contest rules, including no purchase means of entry, go to: https://forms.chryslercanada.ca/Ontariocontest. §2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Crew shown. Price including applicable Consumer Cash Discount and Holiday Bonus Cash: $28,530. 2012 Dodge Journey SXT shown. Price including applicable Consumer Cash Discount and Holiday Bonus Cash: $25,530. Pricing includes freight ($1,400), air tax (if applicable), tire levy and OMVIC fee. Pricing excludes licence, insurance, registration, any retailer administration fees, other retailer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. See bottom of the ad for range of potential retailer fees. Retailer order/trade may be necessary. Retailers may sell for less. The Best Buy Seal is a registered trademark of Consumers Digest Communications LLC, used under license. ■Based on Ward’s 2011 Small Van Segmentation. Excludes other Chrysler Group LLC designed and/or manufactured vehicles. ^Based on January 2010 through August 2011 R. L. Polk sales total registrations. ¤Based on 2012 EnerGuide Fuel Consumption Guide ratings published by Natural Resources Canada. Transport Canada test methods used. Your actual fuel consumption may vary.

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package – Hwy: 7.9L/100 km and City: 12.2L/100 km. 2012 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package & SE Plus – Hwy: 7.5L/100 km and City: 10.8L/100 km. 2012 Dodge Journey SXT – Hwy: 7.8L/100 km and City: 12.6L/100 km. ®SIRIUS and the dog logo are registered trademarks of SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. ®Jeep is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC.

20 12

SCAN HERE FOR MORE

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STEP UP TO THE 2012 DODGE JOURNEY SXT

117

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$

117 BI-WEEKLY FINANCING†

CANADA’S #1 SELLING CROSSOVER^

$

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $2,000 CONSUMER CASH,* FREIGHT, AIR TAX, TIRE LEVY AND OMVIC FEE. TAXES EXCLUDED. OTHER RETAILER CHARGES MAY APPLY.+

19,995

BI-WEEKLY FINANCING†

• 3.6L Pentastar VVT V6 with 283 HP • One-touch up/down front windows (driver & passenger) • Overhead console

TM

STEP UP AND GET

@

• Industry-Exclusive 2nd row Super Stow ’n Go® with one-hand operation • Segment-Exclusive Stow ’n Place roof rack • 3rd row Stow ’n Go® with Segment-Exclusive tailgate seating TM

■

38

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WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS 20 THE OBSERVER

7.9L/100 KM HWY¤

36 3 6

$

%

OR CHOOSE

STEP UP TO THE 2012 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN SXT

4.99

• Centre front floor console with cupholders • Deep-tint sunscreen glass • Body-coloured door handles and bodyside moulding

7.5L/100 KM HWY¤ MPG HWY

2012 Dodge Journey SXT shown.§

%

OR CHOOSE

4.99

• Dual bright exhaust tips • Highway: 7.8L/100 KM (36 MPG)¤

MPG M PG

HWY

» Saturday, December 17, 2011

BEST-IN-CLASS BESTT IN-CLASS

283 28 3HP

.§

$10,000 ∞

WITH PRICES LIKE THESE, SANTA’S GOING TO NEED A BIGGER SLEIGH. 2012 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN CANADA VALUE PACKAGE CANADA’S BEST SELLING MINIVAN FOR MORE THAN 27 YEARS

19,995 •

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $8,000 CONSUMER CASH,* FREIGHT, AIR TAX, TIRE LEVY AND OMVIC FEE. TAXES EXCLUDED. OTHER RETAILER CHARGES MAY APPLY.+

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

$

MORE BI-WEEKLY

23

2012 DODGE JOURNEY CANADA VALUE PACKAGE GE

•

BEST NEW SUV/CUV

UNDER $35,000 IN 2012

ACCORDING TO AJAC.

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

$

MORE BI-WEEKLY

26

HOLIDAY BONUS CASH♦.

Dodge.ca/Offers

+Your local retailer may charge additional fees for administration/pre-delivery that can range from $0 to $1,098 and anti-theft/safety products that can range from $0 to $1,298. Charges may vary by retailer.

GREAT OFFERS

12/8/11 1:28 PM