Season’s Greetings Section
Merry Christmas
Published by the Assiniboia Times
David Marit, MLA Wood River Constituency
We Thank You for the Gift of Your Patronage. We Wish You and Your Loved Ones the Best of the Season From Management and Staff, Assiniboia Times
Nancy Johnson
Linda Hall
Ann Kinchen
Dan Archer
Wes Bloom
Sabrina Kraft
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 306-642-4200 • mlawoodriver@sasktel.net
B2 Friday, December 13, 2019 - The Times
CHRISTMAS WORSHI P GUI DE In Assiniboia and Mossbank
Assiniboia Apostolic Church Candlelight Christmas Service Sunday, December 22nd at 10:00 AM
Connecting people to God and each other 200 4th Ave E Assiniboia
St Paul’s United Church Christmas Eve December 24th at 7:30 PM 505 Centre Street 306-642-4865 Assiniboia
Assiniboia Alliance Church Christmas Eve Service Tuesday, Dec 24th at 7:00 PM 305 4th Ave E 306-642-4557 Assiniboia
Messiah Lutheran Church
123 – 6th Ave East ~ 306-642-4698 Christmas Eve Candle Light Service: Dec. 24th at 6:00 p.m. Luke 2:15b: “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.”
Please come with us this Christmas, as we gather around God’s word to receive God’s gifts of grace, and to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Should you need a ride to our house of the Lord, please call our Church office at 306-642-4698 on Tues, Thurs, or Fri a.m. and leave a message if necessary.
St. George’s Roman Catholic Church Christmas Eve Tuesday, Dec 24th • 5:30 PM Mossbank 7:30 PM Assiniboia Midnight Mass 9:30 PM Assiniboia Christmas Day Wednesday, Dec 25th • 9:00 AM Assiniboia New Year’s Eve Tuesday, Dec 31st • Vigil 7:30 PM Assiniboia New Year’s Day Wednesday, January 1st World Day Of Peace - Mary, Mother Of God 9:00 AM Mossbank 11:00 AM Assiniboia
The Times - Friday, December 13, 2019 B3
There was 33 floats in the 2019 Christmas Parade in Assiniboia on December 4. This was the largest parade to date, attended by a considerable number of people from outside Assiniboia. Photos by Dan Archer
Our Finest Wishes at the Holidays May your Christmas be rich in friendship, love, peace, health and happiness. We wish you and yours all the best, and we thank you for your support this past year
Peace On Earth Good Will To All Mankind From Our Family To Yours Best Wishes for A Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year!
Many Thanks For Your Patronage
Christmas Is in the Air Our Thanks & Best Wishes for a Holiday Season filled with lots of good times & good cheer! For the never ending support you’ve shown us, we are deeply grateful.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Assiniboia & District Chamber Of Commerce
With Thanks & Best Wishes From Our Entire Team
Dave Mihalicz Excavating Ltd. 306-642-5315
www.southcountry.ca Assiniboia
306-642-3366
Mossbank
306-354-2411
B4 Friday, December 13, 2019 - The Times
Lights of Love gathers community members
By Dan Archer The first annual Lights of Love was held in Assiniboia’s Centennial Park on November 13. Candles were passed around and the Assiniboia’s community choir sang Silent Night. The trees circling the campsite in the park were lit in memory of those who had passed away. Many of the people attending the event in the park were present to remember their loved ones who wouldn’t be joining them for Christmas this year. On the surface, Lights of Love embodied personal grief, but there was also something very encouraging about this time in the park, where the community gathered to light candles, stand by an open fire and hear the choir sing. Although the event in
Centennial Park might’ve materialized as an interval ridden with despondency to outside observers, a genuine spirit of hopefulness characterized Lights of Love in the early evening. Whenever we remember family members, friends and other people who were special, but are no longer able to share Christmas and other occasions with us any longer, we are obligated to have a moment to treasure and honour them. Events like Lights of Love are important, because times such as this allow us to confront personal grief and honour our loved ones who have passed into the next life. After all, true love is eternal and exists beyond the grave. Nancy Guthrie, the author of Even Better Than Eden: Nine Ways the Bible’s Story
Changes Everything about Your Story, understood how the holidays and other times of fun and celebration will often seem empty without the presence of an important figure who had passed away. “When you’ve lost a member of your family, even the best of times
are painfully incomplete. Someone is missing. Even the best days and happiest events are tinged with sadness. Wherever you go, the sadness goes with you,” Guthrie wrote. Sharon W. Betters, the Executive Director of Marking Ministries, said
we need to give ourselves permission to grieve. “Grieve for what was so that you can accept that the holidays will never be the same. With that acceptance, give yourself permission to enjoy what is and look for new treasures,” Betters suggested.
“Acknowledge you are grieving. Give yourself permission to cry, to allow others to see your grief. And if you are looking for ways to help a grieving friend, these few whispered words, ‘I miss him too’ will break the ache in your friend’s heart.”
The community gathered to light candles on November 13 in Centennial Park.
Dashing Through the Snow to Deliver Our Best Wishes! Over the hills and through the snow From our home to yours, we think you should know That we wish you and yours only the best: Goodwill, good fortune and everlasting happiness!
Thank you for your patronage, friends. We look forward to serving you again soon.
Assiniboia, Lafleche, Gravelbourg, Mankota, & Swift Current.
QUALITY PETRO-CANADA FUELS & LUBRICANTS NINE LOCATIONS FOR BETTER SERVICE IN SOUTHERN SASKATCHEWAN Assiniboia, SK K 306-642-4621 306 64 6422 4621 46211
Swift Current, SK 306-773-8890 2004 S. Service Rd. W.
Shaunavon, SK 306-297-1400 3066 29 2 7 1400 1400
Eastend, SK 3306-295-3355 306 -29 29955-33355 555
Mankota, M Mank Man ankot k ta, kota a, SK SK 306-478-2223 3066-47 47888-22223 47 2223
Lafleche, SK 3306-472-5245 306 -47 47222-55245 47 45
Gravelbourg, SK 306-648-2511
Maple Creek, SK 306-662-2262
Fox Valley, SK 306-666-4434
With Our Thanks for Your Patronage for The Last 25 Years As we get ready to wrap up another year, we’re filled with happiness and gratitude, thanks to our many wonderful friends and customers here. We couldn’t ask for a better gift than your loyal support. Here’s hoping your holiday season is packed with good times, good friends and happy surprises. We wish you all the best at Christmas and all year.
ALAN & PATTI BATTY
Cookies and candy may be sweet, but customers like you are our favorite treat! As we enjoy another holiday season, we’d like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation for the friendship and support of our many customers here in the community. Your trust means the world to us, and we thank you for making 2019 such a wonderful year. It is truly our pleasure to serve you, and we look forward to seeing you again soon. From our family to yours, best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year!
104-2nd Ave. W., Assiniboia Assinibboi oiaa 306-642-4413 112 Centre St.,, As Assiniboia ssi sini nibo ni booia 3306-642-4699 30 6--64422-46 4699 46 9 99
Photo by Dan Archer
The Times - Friday, December 13, 2019 B5
Christmas Flashback • Assiniboia and District, 1983 By Dan Archer The holiday season in Assiniboia and District was revving-up to be another time of shared joy and excitement in the early 1980s. Grant Devine, MLA for Estevan, was the premier of the province, having just replaced Allan Blakeney a year before. A line from Premier Devine’s Christmas message printed in the Assiniboia Times on December 21, 1983 read, “In a world in which the ravages of war, of hunger, of want and deprivation are brought to us
almost nightly on our television screens, we should be thankful that we are fortunate enough to live in the best country in the world.” Pierre Trudeau served as the Prime Minister in 1983 until he was replaced a year later by Progressive Conservative, Brian Mulroney. Nearly forgotten television shows like Lou Grant and Remington Steele were being aired on television in the 1983. Speaking of television programs, a debate over Saturday morning cartoons in the early 1980s
concluded many of the new children’s shows were less about telling stories and were more concerned with selling toys like the Monchhichis, those adorable blue Smurfs and the infamous Rubik’s Cube. L o c a l l y, S h a n n o n Zarowny of Willow Bunch acquired a five-and-a-halffoot stocking in a contest held in Assiniboia’s SAAN store in December 1983. The SAAN colouring con-
test was won by Rebecca McKee in the two-fouryear-old category, Trina Kyle won in the five to seven-year-old spot and Jennifer Waiting was the lucky contest winner in the eight to 10-year-old grouping. Theatre productions had always proved to be popular events in Assiniboia during the Christmas season. Ian McCann played Magnus Muldoon, a crippled man in the play,
The Real Inspector Hound, directed by Mr. Johnston. The production was performed in the Assiniboia Composite High School on December 19, 1983. In the early 1980s, there were special events held all over the district to give the Christmas season its usual sparkle. Waiting’s Farm Equipment were selling tickets to a cabaret on January 7 with tickets priced at $3 per person. Touch of
Class with Lisa Waiting were the performers for the evening in Limerick. The Rockglen Nighthawks hosted a cabaret on December 23, 1983 at the Rockglen Community Hall with the band Chateau scheduled to appear. In Glentworth, the annual Boxing Day Dance was held at the Glentworth Hall. Tickets were priced at $10 and the music was provided by Country Sunshine.
With Our Thanks,
Happy Holidays!
The greatest gifts are the people who bring warmth to our hearts and smiles to our faces. Thank you for brightening our days with your visits. We hope the holiday season and the coming year deliver all of the wonderful things you deserve and more. Best wishes from our home to yours!
Cruz In 306-642-CRUZ(2789) Closed Dec 25th & 26th
As the holiday season comes rushing in, we’d like to deliver our very best wishes to the friends, neighbors and customers who have made this year such a wonderful journey for us. Your kindness and loyalty lift us up, and we’re so very grateful for your friendship and support.
All Aboard—
For A Great Season!
Right on schedule, we’d like to say, That we’re sending many warm wishes your way– As the year winds down and we look back, We know it’s people like you who keep us on track!
Great Western Railway Ltd.
Back Row: Marie - Tim - Chris - Eric - Jarrett - Tracy - Rene - Kim - Dave - Philip - Jim - Heath Front Row: Mike - Larry - Fallon - Curtis - Dale - Rob - Dave
B6 Friday, December 13, 2019 - The Times
When a visitor walked through Hodgeville’s centre, the spectacle of more than 1200 Nativity scenes lit with Christmas lights was awe inspiring and tranquil. Colourful lights were spread and layered over the Nativity scenes recreated in wood, glass and other materials. Photo by Dan Archer
It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year…and do you know why? Because you’re the Best Bunch of Kids a Teacher could have!
Merry Christmas
405 Dominion Rd.
Shaping Today’s Youth… for Tomorrows Success
Wishing you the joy of the season, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Mayor, Council and Staff. Lyle Erfle, Travis Vallinga, Bret Maffenbeier, Damian Tiffen Front: Len Hanson, Rita Walters and Amanda Sharlow
131 Third Avenue West 306-642-3382
The Times - Friday, December 13, 2019 B7
Hodgeville’s annual Nativity display was a serene exhibit By Dan Archer Hodgeville isn’t easy to reach without a four-wheel drive along the icy roads west of Gravelbourg, but the Nativity display in the Hodgeville Community Centre entertained visitors who came from many different communities, including Regina to Swift Current and other communities in the RM of Lawtonia. “It’s always on the first weekend of December,” said Anne Barkman, one of the display’s originators. This year, the event ran from November 29 to December 1 in the Hodgeville Community Centre. Together, she and her friend Andrea Kerr had reshaped and enlarged the exhibit with free admission, which had been held in the village’s community centre for over nine years. When a visitor walked through Hodgeville’s centre, the spectacle of more than 1200 Nativity scenes
lit with Christmas lights was awe inspiring and tranquil. Colourful lights were spread and layered over the Nativity scenes recreated in wood, glass and other materials. The scenes originated from Kerr’s and Barkman’s collections and from several contributors. Barkman described how the annual pre-Christmas event in Hodgeville had brought people from south west Saskatchewan together for this seasonal celebration. “Today, we’ve had two carloads from Regina. We’ve got a bunch coming from Coronach later.” Barkman and Kerr had organized this event for 11 years. Originally, the two friends arranged a display of 150 scenes in the Kelstern Community Church northeast of Hodgeville, but they moved the nativity scenes into Hodgeville two years after when the Night Jesus was Born gained recognition. “This has just
grown beyond belief,” said Barkman. “The first year, it was just the two of us,” said Kerr. The presentation in Hodgeville on a snowy November day was an art show unlike any other with wood carvings, stone sculptures, glass domes, figurines and mangers of various sizes. Barkman described some of the hard work gone into presenting this year’s display. “There’s 25 ladies
and some guys helping and there’s lots of baking.” Both she and Kerr estimated there were about 1520 donors to 2019’s Night Jesus was Born. Kerr had always hoped the display she and Barkman prepared and organized over 11 years would remind people about the true meaning behind Christmas. “I always grew up with the birth of Jesus being the reason for Christmas,” she explained.
Remember
Adam Kessler - Feb. 29, 1936 - Mar. 28, 2016 Clinton Kessler - May 10, 1970 - Jan. 6, 1984 Addison Kessler - June 26, 1974 - Jan. 6, 1984 To my husband and sons in Heaven, this time of year is so hard without you. I miss our times together during the holidays together. We are never far apart. You are always in my heart.
Love Helen
We're displaying our holiday cheer, To thank everyone for stopping here And for your winning attitude, You surely have our sincere gratitude So without any fanfare or further delay Please accept our best wishes for a great holiday!
Thanking
Dear Santa, Please remember our good friends and customers this Christmas! Thanks for making our year so jolly with your visits. We appreciate your patronage!
114 2nd Ave. W., Assiniboia 306-642-3505
We wish you and yours a blessed and happy Christmas. May it be filled with good times and good people, and may the year ahead deliver an abundance of good fortune to you and your loved ones. Happy Holidays!
SCOTT'S
Courier Service 306-642-7660
All our Customers from Assiniboia & Surrounding Area
MANAGEMENT & STAFF
Heartland Livestock Swift Current (306) 773-3174
B8 Friday, December 13, 2019 - The Times
Amazing Christmas world records Do you love Christmas? If so, you’re not alone. In fact, every year, the spirit of the season drives holiday enthusiasts to perform impressive feats. Here are some particularly remarkable Guinness World Records. • Tallest chocolate Santa. Displayed in a mall in Cantù, Italy in 2011, this giant Santa was 5 metres tall, 2.5 metres in diameter and weighed just over 1,700 kilograms. • Most Christmas lights on a home. In 2014, the Gay family from LaGrangeville, New York decorated their home with over 600,000 individual lights. The display took two months to build and was set to more than 200 different songs, which passersby could hear when tuned in to a special AM radio station. • Largest artificial Christmas tree. Built by the Arjuna Ranatunga Social Services in Colombo, Sri Lanka in 2016, this tree measured more than 72 metres high. It was erected during a three-day Christmas carnival and was topped by a 6-metre star. • Largest Christmas ornament. In 2018, a Christmas ornament more than 4.5 metres in diameter was displayed in Dubai Mall, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. • Longest wish list to Santa. The Christmas spirit was alive and well in
Mr. and Mrs. Claus have both been very busy this Christmas in Assiniboia. The couple attended the parade in Assiniboia on December 4 and were at the Kinette’s Breakfast with Santa event at the Assiniboia Elementary School on December 7. They also attended the Christmas Tea at the Assiniboia and District Museum on Decemeber 7, and the Skate with Santa event Photo by Dan Archer at the Assiniboia Civic Centre Arena on December 8.
Beijing last December. On 28 December 2017 Beijing Hyundai and Mohe Tourism Bureau collected an impressive 124,969 wishes which were printed on a scroll and presented at the Santa Village in Mohe, Heilongjiang, China. • Fastest time to dress in a Santa costume. André Ortolf from Germany has numerous record titles, and when Guinness World Records 2019 was launched earlier this year he added another one. The fact it was September didn’t stop Andre feeling Christmassy as he managed to slip into his scarlet suit in 30.94 seconds on 5 September. • Largest cup of hot chocolate/ cocoa. There’s nothing quite like a cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter’s day. So imagine one containing 4,816.6 litres (1059.4 UK gal, 1272.3 US gal) of chocolate yumminess. Well that’s what happened in Mexico on 6 January this year when Municipo de Uruapa set a new record for Largest cup of hot chocolate/ cocoa in honour of Three Kings Day, the day marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men at Jesus’ manger manger. The drink itself contained more than 600 kg of locally sourced semi-sweet cocoa. If you’re hoping to set your own holiday record this year, you better get started. Christmas will be here sooner than you think.
P eace - J oy - H armony THANKS
AssiniboiA Curling Club bonspiels 2019-2020
With best wishes for a happy holiday from all of us
JAn 3rd - 5th MAster CAsh JAn 17th & 18th - under 15 & under 18 JAn 31st & Feb 1st - pssd bAntAM plAyoFFs Feb 7th & 8th - pssd senior plAyoFFs Feb 15th - dAvyroyd spiel MAr 6th & 7th - bArb Mixed ClAssiC MAr 13th & 14th - lAdies AnnuAl MAr 20th - 22nd - Men’s AnnuAl
306-642-5115
Candy canes and boughs of holly, Festive scenes that make us jolly. The Christmas season is finally here, Bringing with it joy and cheer; And on that note, the time is due, to share best wishes with all of you. May Your Season Be Blessed and Happy!
Gallery Closed: Dec 23 - 26, Dec 31 & Jan 1 Christmas Open House: Sunday, Dec 15th 1:30 - 4:30
SHURNIAK ART GALLERY 122-3rd Ave. W., Assiniboia, SK. • Ph: 306-642-5292 shurniakgallery@sasktel.net • www.shurniakartgallery.com
All the best in 2020
The Times - Friday, December 13, 2019 B9
Get Ready! Santa is on his way! He will arrive December 25th From the ornaments that glitter to the lights that flicker, may every moment of your holiday season be merry, bright and beautiful.
Hope It’s Perfect
Wishing you a holiday season trimmed with every happiness! We couldn’t pick better customers than all of you, and we thank you for your kind support.
Management & Staff
Thank you for making our year one to celebrate. We owe our success to friends and customers like you, and we appreciate your generous support. Merry Christmas!
ASSINIBOIA DENTURE CLINIC Assiniboia – Gravelbourg 306-642-3642
218 2nd Ave. W. Assiniboia 306-642-5556
Darcy & Brian
With Our Thanks For Your Patronage To our customers, neighbours and friends, we'd like to extend our best wishes for a holiday season that is satisfying until the end. It's been a privilege and a pleasure serving you, and we look forward to your continued friendship.
The Grondin Family
William, Victoria, Patrick Jr., Elan, Patrick, Alyssa
Crop Inputs call Lorne or Dale: 306-642-4295 Grain Marketing call Gordon or Lesli: 306-642-5900
Claude Piche
Renee Lethbridge
Ken Berner
JoAnn Girardin
Sam Hawkins
Piche Hawkins Grondin Funeral Chapels Assiniboia & Gravelbourg Ph: 306-642-5551 Ph: 306-648-2633
B10 Friday, December 13, 2019 - The Times
Coconut-cranberry blondies Blondie • 1 cup all-purpose flour • 3/4 cup sweetened, shredded coconut • 3/4 cup dried cranberries • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup butter • 1 egg • 1/2 cup brown sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Sauce • 1 cup white chocolate chips • 1 or 2 tablespoons milk
Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). 2. Cover the bottom of an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the side. 3. In a bowl, combine the flour, coconut, cranberries, baking powder and salt. 4. In another bowl (this one should be microwave safe) place the white chocolate chips and butter and melt them in the microwave for about 30 seconds. 5. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the egg, brown sugar and vanilla on medium speed until the mixture has doubled in volume (about 3 minutes). 6. Add the white chocolate and butter mixture to the egg mixture and mix on slow speed. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients until just combined. 7. Pour the batter into the baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out dry. 8. Let cool for about two hours. 9. To make the sauce, melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave (about 30 seconds) with 1 tablespoon of milk. If it’s too thick, add another tablespoon of milk once the chocolate is melted. 10. Cut the blondies into squares or rectangles and serve with the sauce.
A Wish Trimmed With Joy To our fine friends and neighbors here in the community, we wish you a most merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year! May 2020 bring much happiness to you and yours.
Thank you for your kindness in 2019 101 - 1st Ave W, Assiniboia
306-642-2223
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Open Christmas Eve
Special Chinese Smorg 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Closed December 25, 26, 27 & 28 Open New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Special Take Out Orders
Plaintain Tarts Recipe Pastry: Two cups sifted plain flour 1/2 tsp. salt One cup vegetable shortening Two-four tbsp. iced water
1. Preheat oven to 450° F. 2. In a saucepan, combine plantain, sugar and water. 3. Cook over low heat until plantain is cooked. 4. Remove from heat and add nutmeg, vanilla raisins and butter and a little red food colouring if used. 5. Allow filling to cool before filling tart. To make pastry: 1. Combine flour and salt with shortening and cut in with pastry blender until flaky. Add ice water to bind together, form in a ball, wrap and refrigerate. 2. Roll out dough on lightly floured board about 1/8 inch in thickness. 3. Cut four-inch rounds, or larger. 4. Spoon cooled filling in the centre of each four-inch round, fold over and seal with crimper or fork. 5. Place tarts on a baking sheet. 6. Brush tops with a little milk and prick top with a fork. 7. Bake at 450° F for 10 minutes and reduce heat to 350° F and bake for a further 25 to 30 mins. Pastry should be brown. Serves six
Customers Like You Lift Our Spirits All Year Long!
Thinking of you at Christmastime.
Wishing Wi hi you ppeace, jjoy and d good d ffortune t always! l ! May your heart and home be filled with all the happiness this special season brings. We thank you for your patronage, friendship and support.
Taylor’s Auto Repair Ltd.
Assiniboia, SK
102 2nd Ave E Assiniboia, SK 306-642-3034
Canada Trust
A Wish Trimmed With Joy To our fine friends and neighbors here in the community, we wish you a most merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year! May 2020 bring much happiness to you and yours.
Thank you for your kindness in 2019.
Left to Right Sharon Bergeron, Shawna Welder, Janelle Schollar, Shelly Dahlman, Ashley Barnsley, Brittany Mitchell Missing: Becky Volsky, Sarah Bourassa, Stacey Corcoran
NEW MOON
CAFE
Eat In & Take Out 306-642-4866
Thanks for making 2019 so much fun for us. We look forward to taking care of you in the New Year. Happy Holidays & Best Wishes!
Management & Staff
- Over $50.00 Before Taxes 2L Pop For FREE or 4 Vegetable Spring Rolls - Over $40.00 Before Taxes FREE Order Deep Fried Wonton
As We Are Closed on Saturdays, Please Book Your Saturday Christmas Party A Couple Of Days In Advance
Filling: One cup ripe plantain, peeled and cut up 1/4 cup sugar One tbsp. raisins 1/4 cup water One tbsp. butter 1/2 tsp. nutmeg One tsp. vanilla Red food colouring (optional)
The Times - Friday, December 13, 2019 B11
Gourmet bruschetta
Pork Strips Two ½ lbs. lean pork cut into long thin strips 10 oz. cooked peas Eight oz. pineapple chunks Six cups shredded cabbage Two tbsp. soya sauce Two pegs garlic One tbsp. cooking oil Four tbsp. cornstarch Salt and black pepper Two cups pineapple juice (unsweetened)
Season strips of meat well with crushed garlic, pepper and salt. Pour soy sauce unto plate and marinate meat. Heat oil in a large frying pan and brown meat on both sides. Use cornstarch with just enough pineapple juice to make a paste (set this aside). Add rest of juice to chunks of meat on fire, heat this to boiling point. Add cornstarch mixture and stir until it thickens. Allow to simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in cooked peas. Pile shredded cabbage on top. Cover and simmer on low flame for two minutes.
Hot spiced cider Ingredients
• 2 ounces spiced rum • 1-1/2 cups flat, hard apple cider • 2 tablespoons honey • 2 cinnamon sticks • 2 pods of whole star anise • Juice of half a lemon
Directions 1. In a small saucepan, combine all the ingredients and bring them to a gentle simmer over low heat. Allow to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
For a non-alcoholic alternative, omit the rum and use non-alcoholic cider.
2. Pour the beverage into two toddy glasses, making sure to put a cinnamon stick and a star anise pod in each cup.
Ingredients • 1/4 cup olive oil • 1 garlic clove, minced • 6 basil leaves, chopped • 2 (190 grams) packages cherry tomatoes • 4 slices thick crusty bread • 1 (226 grams) package pre-sliced mozzarella • Salt and pepper, to taste • Whole basil leaves (to use as garnishes) To make the bruschetta easier to eat, you can cut the tomatoes in half before roasting them. This will shorten the cooking time, however, so keep an eye on them.
Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C). 2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic and basil. 3. Place the tomatoes in an oven-safe dish and pour the olive oil mixture on top. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for 10 minutes or until the tomatoes start to brown and crack. 4. Meanwhile, toast the bread. Make sure not to overcook it. It should still be a little soft. 5. Cover each slice with cheese and top with the tomatoes. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm and garnish with a basil leaf.
Season’s Greetings
There’s Something in the Air…
With gratitude in our hearts, we wish you and yours a blessed season!
Hope it’s merry, hope it’s bright, hope it fills you with delight!
Cassie McCann and Dionne Tjeltveit
232 Centre St., Assiniboia, SK. 306-642-3086
With gratitude, we wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season.
Palliser Semi Service
Highway # 2North Monday to Friday 8 AM To 5 PM | Closed 12 PM To 1 PM
It’s that magical feeling of Christmas, and we hope it fills you with enough joy to last all year!
Best Wishes & Happy Holidays
Tom, Lee & Tammie Mountain & Mountain Law Firm 101 4th Ave W Assiniboia | 306-642-3866
We Wish You Wishing you a season filled with every little happiness. Thank you for being such great customers and friends!
may your days be
Merry &Bright We hope your holiday is special in every single way. Thanks for adding some sparkle to our year. We appreciate your support and friendship. Merry Christmas!
√ Happiness √ Health √ Good Luck √ Good Fortune √ Friendship
√ Love √ Laughter √ Peace √ Contentment √ Inspiration
…and the list goes on!
Thank you for giving us a te long list of reasons to celebra ess to this year. We owe our happin of you, friends and customers like all best. and we wish you all the
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Wheatland Custom Grain Hauling Ken & Deanna • 306-642-7533
To the Nicest Folks We Know!
Marlin and Lorraine Fettes & Families 114 2nd Ave E Assiniboia • 306-642-3328
MARLIN FETTES SAND & GRAVEL 306-642-3825 | Assiniboia SK
B12 Friday, December 13, 2019 - The Times
Merry Christmas from the Village of Limerick
The Girl from the Snowglobe: A Christmas Story By Pamela Mytroen “Zara!” Caught again. I stopped, poised on my tiptoes, as I tried to dart past Dede. As usual he sat by the cracked kitchen window. What did he see in that barren landscape of naked trees and blowing snow? Nothing, I reminded myself, as he was mostly blind. His hearing, however, was perfect. “ Ye s , D e d e ? ” H e wouldn’t be able to read my eyes. Another day at school, another layer of hurt.
He leaned on that carved wooden cane. The one he brought from home by the sea, where it had been so warm. A wave of memory hit me, and I walked to him quickly, as much to forget, as to remember. A breeze lifted off the frosty window. I wrapped his shawl around his square shoulders and dropped to my knees beside him. He reached for me. “My Zara,” he said, his voice still generous after all he’d lost. His hand trembled, as though tracing memories
of Mama and Grandma. I braced for his questions – How was school, Little Dove? Did you make a friend today? Instead of the questions, though, a light blazed in his watery eyes. I pulled back. “Dede, you’ve been dreaming again.” “Never stop dreaming, Zara.” He tapped his cane on the floor. “But we are in Canada now. There are no bombs here,” I said, cutting him off before he droned on about his Christmas dreams - the Saviour Jesus,
Signs of the season are all over town, and we’d like to thank you for coming around!
Cranfield Hopper Bottoms Limerick, SK • 263-4914
Yuletide
GREETINGS
born of a Virgin. The angels that sang. Yeah, right. The dreams had helped him survive that wounded day when they took Mama, and when his first love – my Grandma – had died. “Even here, we need Christmas, Zara.” The light in his eyes grew brighter until he smiled, just like he used to when he and Grandma would dance under the stars by the sea. “Dede.” I shook his arm. “I will make a friend.” I bit my lip. Could he hear the tremor in my voice? “I don’t need your Christmas dreams. I can do this on my own.” “You already have a friend,” he said, raising his eyebrows. “You will see. Soon.” I kissed Dede’s cheek and walked away steadily, lest he hear the uncertainty of my footsteps. As if his Jesus would care about me, and my lack of friends. Dede would never understand how my jeans were out of style. How the kids repeated everything I said behind my back in an exaggerated accent. How
they plugged their nose when I unwrapped my goat cheese for lunch. All Dede had to do was dream. And forget. But dreaming would not help me, I thought as I flopped on my bed. I picked up the snowglobe I had bought at the thrift store, along with some sweaters that I thought were fashionable, but apparently, they were all wrong too, when some girls started a Go Fund Me page for my wardrobe. The girl in the snowglobe wore a plaid coat, floppy galoshes and braids. No doubt she would stand out at school too. She gazed at a bright star, and a little red bird sat on her shoulder. I lay on my back and turned the globe over. Fluffy white snow drifted down and landed on her shoulders and at her feet in a soft pile. I huffed. I could tell Dede that I had found my friend. When I turned the globe back over and watched the snow swirl, my hand chilled. A cold breeze blew over my face. “Please, help me,” called a girl from a fog.
Deck the halls… Trim it with cheer… We’re celebrating another year… Another season, a new chance to say,
“Have a happy holiday!”
Reisner Seed Farm Limerick, SK
At this special time of year, we’d like to Thank our friends and customers for stopping here. Your visits and your kind support fill us with joy and gratitude at The holidays and all year. So without further ado, WE WISH A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU.
May it be filled with good times and good people, And may the coming year bring many blessings to You and your loved ones. All the best!
Wishing Our Neighbors
Grassroots Co-op HAZENMORE 306-264-5111
LIMERICK 306-263-2033
WOODROW 306-472-3742
Check out our system wide cardlock at all 3 locations.
All the Joys of the Season
Hope it’s merry, bright and just right! Thank you for being such great customers and friends. We really appreciate your support, and we look forward to serving you again soon in the New Year.
Sinclair Seed Cleaning Limerick SK | 306-642-7473
I swung my feet over the bed and stood. The girl called again, but this time she was closer. “What’s wrong?” I asked. “I’ve been waiting for you,” she said. Her braids swung sideways and snow swished ahead of her in little poofs as she ran to me. “Thank you for coming.” “Who are you?” “I’m Catriona. I need your help, Zara.” I tucked my cold hands into my pockets. Catriona gave me a pair of handknit red mittens. “Thanks. I think.” I wouldn’t be caught dead in these at school. “That’s what I want to talk to you about.” Catriona laughed. She led me to a bench, dusted the snow off and sat beneath a sky glittered with stars. “You want to talk about mittens?” I pressed them to my cheeks and warmth filled me. “No,” she giggled. “About school. I need some help.” “Catriona, you need help? I’m the immigrant. I’m the one who doesn’t fit in.” I plunked down beside her. “I’m the one who says everything wrong and they all laugh.” “Zara, we’re all immigrants in Canada. Even the kids who do not understand you.” “That’s what my teacher says, that Canadians are all immigrants. But not like me.” I shook my head. “I do not speak English well.” I lowered my voice. “And I worry that I smell like my Dede’s spicy lamb kabobs!” “I know, Zara. When we first moved to Canada, the kids teased me when I talked, too.” I looked away from her frayed plaid coat. “I’m sorry, Catriona.” “What should I do, Zara? I wanted to fit in so badly that I got a job and bought clothes like everyone else. I learned to speak without my Scottish accent. I acted like all the other kids.” “You fit in. What is so bad about that?” I asked. “I stopped being me,” said Catriona. “I stopped caring about freedom. About why we had to leave Scotland.” I looked down so she would not see the knowing in my eyes. I wanted to pretend that I was not lonely. I did not need a Saviour; I needed a friend. “So, you bought new clothes and you spoke nice English. What happened then?” I asked, kicking a pile of snow at my feet. “I got friends. I was happy for awhile,” said Catriona. Continued on Page 13
The Times - Friday, December 13, 2019 B13
Christmas Greetings from the Community of Lafleche
The Girl from the Snowglobe: A Christmas Story
Continued from page 12 She looked up at the big bright star in the sky. “It’s dark! I need to get home,” I said, following Catriona’s gaze to the huge star. It reminded me of the star that Dede used to talk about, the one that led the Wise Men to Jesus. To Hope. “Dede will worry.” “Zara, please don’t go,” said Catriona, standing up with me. “I’m trapped. I feel like I’m stuck inside somebody else’s body. How do I get back to being me again?” My shoulders fell. “You mean if I fit in, and have friends, that I will not be free?” “Do you believe in Christmas, Zara? The Christmas that is full of miracles?” She looked up at the star. “Or do you just want to fit in with friends and wear new clothes?” I shivered. “I want to believe, but I want to fit in too. I want both, I guess.” “If you help me get out of this trap, Zara, then maybe I can help you.” “You would help me, Catriona?” How can I tell her that she’s stuck inside a snowglobe? I gave her mittens back and blew warmth into my red hands. “Maybe . . . maybe I can believe in a Christmas miracle. For both of us.” ************ I picked-up work at a pop-up Puzzle and Calendar store in the mall. With my earnings, I bought new sweaters and jeans. The light never left Dede’s
eyes, and everyday after school he would ask if I had found my new friend. Not yet. But now that my accent was softening. I dressed like everyone else, surely some of the girls would include me in their circle. I didn’t need Dede’s Christmas dreams. The day finally came. “I have friends, Dede. We sit together at lunch.” I did not tell him that I bought chips from the vending machine, instead of eating the flat bread and spicy rice he packed for me. “A friend for my Zara! Now do you believe?” His eyes danced. “Believe? Maybe someday Dede, but now I have friends.” Dede leaned forward. “And so, we must dream even more than ever,” said Dede. His accent always thickened when he was excited. “When life is too easy, we forget to dream. To pray.” His wrinkled finger traced an exquisite pattern of frost on the window. “Christmas is soon here! It is the season for miracles, Zara. Or else, it is just snow and wind.” As Christmas grew near, I missed Mama and the time we always spent making cookies. But I would not speak of angels and miracles to my new friends. The whispers would start again. Three days before Christmas break, I ran home from school, and up the rickety porch steps into our old house. I didn’t care
Greetings of the Season There may be a chill in the air, but our hearts are warmed by thoughts of our many good friends and neighbours of this special time of year.
Thanks folks!
Serving Assiniboia & Area Ser
LANGMAN CONTRACTING
FOR ALL YOUR CONTRACTING NEEDS
that Dede heard me slam the door and run into my bedroom. I knew he would hear the glass breaking when I grabbed the snow globe and threw it at the wall. What had glowed with hope, smashed and landed in a pile of glass, and a little puff of snow crystals. I buried my face in my hands and sat down beside the brokenness. There is no hope. I have friends, but I do not feel alive. I was dead. I had buried myself along with Mama. “Ah, Zara.” Dede’s bent shadow spilled into my room. “Sometimes we have to be broken before we will dream. And pray.” I rolled my hands into fists. After he limped away, I sifted through the glass fragments, trying to find Catriona, but she was shattered into a million pieces. “Catriona,” I whispered, “I have friends, but it is all a lie. I have not told them the truth about how my heart aches for Mama; and I dare not tell them about Dede and his dreams.” I had locked myself in a prison of silence, designer clothes, and loneliness. “Maybe you are free, but I am trapped now.” I stood by the window and gazed at the stars. Their design reminded me of the sugar I used to sprinkle on cookies with Mama. I am broken, like Catriona. Maybe Dede is right. Maybe a miracle is the only way I will have a friend. Closing my eyes, I
tossed the words. “I do not know how to pray like Dede. I hope you will hear me, Christmas Jesus. I need a friend. Somebody who I can be real with.” I pressed my hand to the cold window. At home, they took Mama because she dared to believe in you. And here, if I ask questions, if I want to believe, then they laugh. What is worse? To speak the truth and be different? Or to be quiet, and fit in, and be lonely?” I awoke feeling heavy. Grey clouds smothered the glittering stars. Hmph. When Dede plugged in a strand of Christmas lights over the kitchen window, most of them were dead, but as usual he hummed about those angels and that silent, holy night. I dressed in a new outfit, stopped at the corner bistro for my latte, and walked into class five minutes late. Everyone looked the same, except there was a new girl. She reminded me of one of my classmates – the one who had laughed at my old clothing, but now she was wearing plain clothes. So unlike her. At lunch I went to her. “You look like somebody I used to know.” I nodded at her plaid scarf. “And you braided your hair? It’s pretty.” “You think so?” The girl ran her finger over a shiny brown braid across her forehead. She looked at my new jeans and frowned. I stiffened. This girl did
A Merry Christmas!
LAFLECHE PHARMACY 306-472-5205
Grocery Store • CLOSED Dec 25th, 26th and Jan 1st Service Centre • CLOSED Dec 25th. and OPEN Dec 26th and Jan 1st from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Have a Holly Jolly Christmas You deserve it! Thanks for your support this year.
Lafleche Tire 306-472-5245
As another holiday season comes marching in, we’d like to thank you for being such good friends.
With best wishes for a Merry Christmas from all of us.
Jim's Shoe Repair & Upholstery 472-5423 - Lafleche, Sask.
Here’s hoping your holiday season delivers a full spectrum of peace, love, joy and contentment. Thanks for being a bright spot in our year. We’ve really enjoyed spending time with all of you, and we wish you all the best!
Lafleche Agencies 306-472-5515
Cheers!
In the spirit of the season, we offer you our best wishes and gratitude.
With best wishes from all of us wherever you go this holiday season. It’s been a privilege and a pleasure serving you this year, and we hope you’ll drop in again soon.
Store 306-472-5510 • Service Centre 306-472-5565
in a vinyl purse with tassels hanging on the zipper. I had seen it at the thrift store. I had learned the hard way not to shop there. But now I was critical of others who wore used clothing. How I had changed! To be continued in the December 20th paper
Wishing All
Thanks for Dropping In!
Southland Co-op @ Lafleche
not approve of my style? Maybe I would never have a friend. Why did I think God would hear my broken words last night? I looked around the class. Had anybody seen me talk to this girl? I turned to leave. “Just hang on!” The new girl was digging
Wishing you peace, joy, friendship and all the wonder that makes the holiday season so very special.
Thanks and Merry Christmas!
Palliser Aggregates 556 Main St. Lafleche, SK 306-472-3144
Flying Goose Motel
306-472-5288
B14 Friday, December 13, 2019 - The Times
Christmas Greetings from the Town of Coronach Maintain your family routine during the holidays Over the holiday season, it’s all too easy for your children’s routine to get thrown off track. Here are five tips to help you stick to a schedule and hopefully keep meltdowns to a minimum. 1. Prioritize sleep. Tired kids tend to get cranky, hyper and easily flustered. While a late night or two are almost inevitable at this time of year, overall,
it’s best to maintain their regular sleep schedule. 2. Eat healthy. Make sure the entire family gets a healthy breakfast and lunch every day. Fill the kids up on fruits, vegetables and other healthy snacks before heading to a party. This way, they’ll have less room to gorge on cookies, cakes and other treats. 3. Entertain at home — or don’t. Some parents
find it easier to host during the holidays, while others can’t imagine planning a party. Don’t be shy to let your loved ones know what works for your family. 4. Get exercise. Make sure your kids remain active over the holidays, and that they have sufficient time to run around. Consider visiting an indoor play park or indul-
ging in some outdoor fun. 5. Make time for play. Avoid filling every free moment with a planned activity. Set aside time for playing at home and relaxing. While sticking to a routine is beneficial for kids, doing so isn’t always feasible. Remember to be flexible and not worry too much if things don’t go as planned.
WE WISH YOU A
2020
Call (306) 267-2101 201 Centre Street Coronach, SK
www.coronachagencies.com
Poplar River Pharmacy 306-267-2077 111 Centre St. Coronach, SK
Christmas Greetings from Rockglen
Games to liven up your gift exchange during Christmas Are you tired of the same old holiday gift exchange? If so, here are some fun games to enliven this year’s gift giving. • Dice. Every number on the dice comes with an instruction (pass to the left or steal a gift). Take turns rolling the dice until everyone has a present. • Hot potato. This childhood favourite is just as fun to play as an adult. Turn on a holiday song and pass a present from person to person until the music stops. The person left holding the
gift is out of the game but keeps the gift. • Personal trivia. Everyone writes a littleknown fact about them selves on the gift they contribut ed. The others must guess who the information is about in order to win the right to open the present. • Cards. Cut some regular playing cards in half and distribute card halves to all participants. Draw the other card halves from a bowl or hat to determine who gets to choose or steal a
Happy Hollydays With joy and gratitude in our hearts, we wish you a most merry Christmas and a very happy year to come!
gift next. • Story. Rewrite a w e l l - k n ow n C h r i s t mas story to include the words right, left and across numerous times. To start the game, everyone holds the gift they brought as someone reads the story aloud. Every time an instruction word is said, the presents get passed in that direction. To make sure that everyone receives a gift they’ll enjoy, be sure to decide on a budget and theme beforehand.
Wishing You a Holiday Wrapped in Happiness At this merry y and bright time of year year, we wish you all much jjoy and cheer. Your support, kindness and friendship too make us so very happy to know each of you.
Thank you for making us feel at home here and for your trust in us. We sincerely appreciate your patronage, and we wish you all the best this holiday.
Board of Directors, Management & Staff 1-306-476-2244 www.rockglenkilldeer.cu.ca
Close at 3:00pm on the 24th Closed Dec 25th & 26th Closed Jan 1st
All the best to you and yours. Merry Christmas and many thanks! Rockglen Co-op Service Station 306-476-2210
Grocery Store 306-476-2005
The Times - Friday, December 13, 2019 B15
Merry Christmas From the Community of Mossbank
Christmas without the cooking: how to hang your apron If the thought of cre ating a holiday spread from scratch doesn’t excite you, then give yourself the gift of not cooking this year. Here’s where you can get meals made by
someone else. Restaurants: There are plenty of eateries that remain open over the holidays. Book a table at one nearby for your holiday feast. Or better yet, order some takeout
and eat in the comfort of your own home. Caterers: If you’re hosting a party, consider hiring a caterer. Not only will this professional work with you to come up
with the perfect menu, but they’ll also do all the work. Grocers: Many busi nesses, inc luding gro cery sto r es, butcher shops and local restau rants, of f er pre-made meals that are perfect for nights you want to eat in. Personal chefs: For a real treat, hire a personal chef to come to your home and create an intimate meal for you and your loved ones. It’s the perfect no-cook solution for a small gathering with friends or even a New Year’s Eve party. This year, simplify your holiday season by letting someone else do the cooking. Don’t be surprised if you love this hands-off approach to the holidays so much that you do it again next Christmas.
Happy Holidays
To our sweet friends and customers, thanks for treating us so well! Greetings from Mossbank Southland Co-op
Holiday Hours
Closed December 25th & 26th and January 1st
(306) 354-2350
We’re dashing through the snow to say, have a happy holiday! May all of your wishes come true this season.
Thank You!
Agritax Business Services Ltd. 318 Main St. Mossbank, SK • 306-354-2256
Christmas Greetings from Willow Bunch
How to choose the perfect real Christmas tree Do you love seeing and smelling a real Christ mas tree in your home? If so, here are some tips for choosing the perfect one. Determine what size Choose a spot in your home to place your tree and don’t forget to meas ure it to make sure you
don’t come home with one that’s too tall. The spot you select should be away from air vents so that the tree doesn’t pre maturely dry out. Choose the tree To choose the right tree, look for one with needles that are shiny and uniform
ly green. When you crush the needles between your fingers, they should release a strong, fresh scent. Lift the tree and make sure that it’s heavy, that the needles stay on and that the trunk is slightly sticky. Care for the tree Store your tree out
doors or in the garage until you’re ready to decorate it. Right before you do, cut about an inch of the trunk off the bottom. This will allow your tree to soak up the water it needs to thrive indoors. Put your tree in the stand and fill the basin with
water. Make sure to add water daily so your tree doesn’t dry up. Wait a few hours for the branches and needles to settle before you start decorating.
A dry Christmas tree is a fire hazard. To minimize the risk, make sure to give it enough water, keep it far from the fireplace and use lights that don’t emit heat.
WITH WARM WISHES
AT THE WINTER SEASON
At the first sign of winter’s chill, We’re reminded of your goodwill... And as snow blankets the ground, We thank you all for coming ‘round For it may be cold outside, it’s true... But our hearts are warmed by thoughts of you! Thank you for your valued business all year long.
Branches At Bengough - Viceroy - Willow Bunch
306-268-2930 • www.bengough.cu.sk.ca Closed December 25th - 26th, January 1st
B16 Friday, December 13, 2019 - The Times
Shopping with product safety in mind: Health Canada With many holiday sales just a click away, Health Canada’s Product Safety Officer Tracey Kennedy would like to remind everyone of simple safety tips when shopping online or when travelling across the border. Kennedy says that it’s important to know who you are buying from and to avoid websites which seem questionable. “Do some research on the
vendor, including ratings and reviews from reliable sources and their company history and return policy,” says Kennedy. “Remember that products bought online may not be as advertised or work as they should, or could be prohibited or recalled in Canada, or have mislabelled safety information. They might also be held at the border and you might lose your money.”
If you are on a shopping trip outside of Canada, similar rules apply. “Be aware of products that have strict Canadian safety requirements or may be prohibited,” Kennedy says, “otherwise you could end up bringing home items that are unsafe or may be held at the border.” Some examples of items that are banned in Canada include children’s products such as baby
walkers, yoyo balls, infant self-feeding devices and certain balloon blowing kits. Other common products which might not meet our safety requirements include car seats, children’s sleepwear, cribs, strollers, playpens, hockey helmets, face protectors, and toys. “Be careful especially with children’s toys over the season,” says Kennedy. “Even if they are
As we deck the halls and trim the tree, it’s oh-so clear for us to see: At Christmas time and all year through, we’re grateful to be here with you!
Thank you for the gifts of your friendship and support. It’s folks like you who make doing business a pleasure for us.
legitimate, always make sure they are well-made and age-appropriate, and check to see if they use button batteries or have small parts that can be a choking hazard for small children. And remember to read the safety information and follow instructions, including on arts and crafts products.” If you are concerned about a product or want to check its recall status, you can find the latest recalls and alerts on the Government of Canada’s online Recalls and Safety Alerts database, which also has a free mobile application. You may also check out more safety tips for online and cross-border shopping
on Canada.ca, searching under keywords: Buying consumer products online; Information for Canadians Travelling Outside of Canada; and Toy Safety. Kennedy says that it’s also a good idea to register products with the manufacturers to receive regular safety updates. If consumers have further questions about specific issues or products, they may contact Health Canada’s Consumer Product Safety program at 1-866-662-0666 or hc.prprodinfo.sc@ canada.ca. “Have a happy holiday,” says Kennedy. “And make product safety a regular part of your shopping checklist.”
Hope Your Holiday Is
Merry in Every Way At home, at work and at play, you’re wished a happy holiday; Joy, laughter and goodwill too, from all of us to all of you! Thank you for making each day unique with your visits, friends. We really appreciate each of you, and wish you all the best at this special time of year. Cheers!
DARRIN & TRACY KARST AND STAFF From Our Home to Yours,
Merry Christmas! Sending sweetest wishes your way for the brightest & happiest of holidays.
Karst Holdings Inc.
6th Street, West Assiniboia
Thank you for your visits!
306-642-5557 329 Centre St Assiniboia SK
306-642-5416
306-642-5656
The Times - Friday, December 13, 2019 B17
How to enjoy the holidays without overindulging Food plays an integral part in many holiday celebrations. But when you have many social obligations in a short period of time, it can feel like all you’re doing is eating. Here’s how to enjoy the season’s festivities without
overindulging. Don’t skip meals Eat regular meals throughout the holidays as this will make you less likely to overindulge at parties. For breakfast, make some eggs or avocado on toast. These foods
are full of protein and healthy fats that will keep you going all day. At lunch, try a salad topped with a healthy protein like salmon, grilled chicken or legumes. Have a light snack before heading out to the party to make sure you don’t arrive hungry.
Focus on protein-rich foods like nuts or plain yogurt with fruit. Stay hydrated Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and in betw een consuming alcoholic drinks. This will help you avoid becoming dehydrated and
will also allow you to feel more satiated and therefore make you less likely to overeat. Get in a workout On the day of the party, try to get in a workout. Not only does regular exercise help you metabolize your food quicker, but you’ll
also crave healthier foods, making it easier to pass on heavier fare. Making sure you take care of yourself over the holidays allows you to treat yourself without overindulg ing. You’ll spend time with loved ones and set the right precedent for the new year.
May that star which shone so long ago, Leading three wise men through the night, Let into your heart a gentle glow, And make your Christmas bright. Merry Christmas & Much Gratitude!
Every Good Wish Wishing you faith, friendship, love, hope, peace, happiness, joy, contentment and all the blessings that make the Christmas season so bright. As always, we’re grateful for your friendship and support. We appreciate your trust in us, and we look forward to continuing to serve you in the New Year and beyond. Happy Holidays!
Kim & Lillian Ford and Staff Lewans & Ford Barristers & Solicitors 306-642-3543 • Assiniboia
SALVATION
ARMY
Assiniboia 306-642-3833
From the Staff of
Ross Funeral Service May the Light of His Love Fill Your Heart With Peace at Christmas and Always Ross Funeral Service 123 - 4th Ave. E., Assiniboia Phone: 306-642-3373 | Fax: 306-642-3999
May Peace, Joy & Beauty Surround You All Season
At this special time of year, we’d like to share our best wishes with the friends, customers and neighbors who have made our year simply spectacular. Your support and trust mean the world to us, and we are grateful to be a part of this vibrant community. Thank you for making us feel so at home here.
May your days be merry and bright at Christmas time and throughout the New Year. We hope all of your wishes come true!
Beitel’s Insurance Briercrest 306-799-2148
B18 Friday, December 13, 2019 - The Times
Fresh Start program will donate unwanted cellular devices
This Christmas, there are many decorated homes in Assiniboia for the season.
Photo by Dan Archer
A Toast
to Our Fine Friends & Customers At this very special time of year, we raise our glasses full of cheer, to all the neighbors 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.
This holiday season warm the heart by helping someone through Phones for a Fresh Start The holidays are meant to be the happiest time of the year, but for those living under the threat of domestic violence, this time can also be stressful. As stress levels rise, so do the excuses for violence. The threat of domestic violence still looms too large in Canada. And for those finally able to break free from the cycle and get help, it can be daunting to pick up the pieces and get their lives moving in a healthy and happy directions again. In 11 years of operation, the program has provided free access to cellular services for those fleeing domestic violence through one of 22 Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS) associated transition house or shelter. To fund the program, SaskTel takes donations of unwanted cellular devices, batteries and accessories
and recycles them through an external recycling company. The proceeds from recycling are returned to SaskTel, where they can then be used to purchase new cellphones and prepaid phonecards for donation to PATHS. Since its inception in 2009, Phones for a Fresh Start has recycled close to 120,000 cellular phones and accessories, allowing SaskTel to donate $89,000 of pre-paid phone cards and over 3,500 new cellphones to PATHS associated transition houses and shelters. Donating to Phones for a Fresh Start is simple. Cellphones, their batteries and accessories can be donated at the Phones for a Fresh Start drop off bin located at all SaskTel Stores or the nearest authorized dealer. Alternatively, for those who may not have an older device available to donate but still wish to help support of victims of domestic violence, financial donations can be made directly to PATHS by visiting their donation information page.
Friends Like You Make Us Merry! Wishing you health, wealth and happiness in good measure this holiday season and all year. Thanks for “baking� our year with your visits!
Assiniboia Bakery
John & Shelly Ambrose and Staff 339 Centre St Assiniboia 306-642-3537
Jolly, Happy Christmas May this Christmas bring you the best of everything! Wishing our customers and friends all the best this season! Thanks to all of our fine friends and customers for making this year so very enjoyable. We owe our success to your loyal support. Brandy, Cherie, Patsy and Sara
317 Centre St. Assiniboia, SK 306-642-4909
Krista and Emily
Shear Energy 306-642-5484
The Times - Friday, December 13, 2019 B19
What do children want Santa to bring them? By Dan Archer Trees, lights carols, candy, oranges and stockings have become part of the holiday’s tradition for more than 100 years. Before the modernization of Christmas, gift giving had been part of the Advent season as Christianity spread through Europe. Many of the gifts in the Christmas seasons long before the Victorian age were homemade, such as wooden toys, baked goods and clothing. But families didn’t exchange gift-wrapped presents on Christmas Day until the late 1800s, when many of the holiday’s traditions were introduced or reinvented to fit the modern context. Before Queen Victoria ruled the British Empire beginning in 1837, nobody in Britain knew anything about Santa Claus, Christmas cards or even Christmas crackers. There weren’t customary holidays taken off school or work during Christmas until the Victorian era began. Children’s preferences for gifts also changed dramatically over the years along with history’s advance. Many of the toys and gifts in the 1970s were lowtech without software, chargers and USB cords. In the December 8 1976 issue of the Assiniboia Times, toy combines were advertised for $16.95 at Southern Equipment. A battery-powered snowmobile could be purchased for $12.50. For the young photographers in the family, a Polaroid Super Shooter might have been acquired for $29.95 at Ottenbreit Photography. Popular toys in the 1970s were often a reflection of the TV generation. Also, several toys in this era were made of plastic as well as having connections to pop culture. The Muhammad Ali Boxing Ring Set included
a boxing ring where the famous boxers, Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, were recreated as dolls controlled by plastic levers and triggers, fighting it out in the ring. The Bionic Woman Wrist Radio Watch for girls came out at the beginning of 1976, when actor Lindsay Wagner made her television debut as the world’s strongest woman in the short-
lived program. The Snoopy Shooter Scooter presented the famous beagle from the Peanuts comics on a scooter with Woodstock the bird as the co-pilot. Later, the Snoopy Sno-Cone machine was introduced in 1979. Children still enjoy receiving Christmas gifts from the jolly man in red, just as they had over 100 years ago. Toys like dolls,
wagons and skateboards are still appreciated, but there’s been a modernizing element to the Christmas of 2019. Children are now asking Santa for mobile phones, iPads and laptops in the computer era. Meanwhile, philosophical questions over toy guns and Barbie dolls are still pondered over as much as they were in the 1970s.
Pop culture is still evident in Christmas gifts, but YouTube is sometimes the driver behind some of the newer gift choices instead of television. The WowWee Pinkfong Baby Shark Official Song Puppet is a popular gift for children aged three and up. When a child moves the puppet’s mouth, the creature will start singing perhaps the most annoy-
ing song in the world made popular on YouTube. Ryan’s World Giant Mystery Egg from the prevalent YouTube show is yet another favourite Christmas gift in 2019.
This Christmas, four members of Patty Mergel’s class at Seventh Avenue Elementary School in Assiniboia were asked what they wanted for Christmas.
Thanks to all our customers for your patronage over the last 47 years. Looking forward to serving you in 2020. Happy New Year
Sadie wanted Santa to bring her an iPad.
Chet wanted a skateboard and a phone.
McCoy hoped the jolly man in red would slide down the chimney and leave him a watch.
Bella’s gift idea was very unique. This Christmas, she wanted an ornament.
Merry Christmas & Season’s Greetings From The Team At Wheatland Dental
Wishing You Good Health In The New Year!
Badlands Country Band Come Jam With Them!
Trimmed With Best Wishes And A Special Thank You
Happy Holidays To Our Friends Neighbours, Donors, Volunteers, Supporters and Sponsors. You Make It All Worthwhile! Manager, Staff and Board
520 Center Street, Assiniboia, SK
www.wheatlanddental.ca
306-642-4435
Prince of Wales Cultural & Recreation Centre Assiniboia SK
306-642-3634 powassiniboia.ca
B20 Friday, December 13, 2019 - The Times
How to choose a host or hostess gift If you get invited to someone’s home over the holidays, it’s best not to arrive empty handed. However, it can be hard to know what to bring, especially if the host or hostess is a relatively new friend or acquaintance. Fortunately, there are number of things — wine, chocolate, coffee, tea, fancy hand soap and unscented candles, for example — that make
great gifts when you don’t know the recipient very well. However, if you do know them, you could offer your host or hostess something that you think they’ll appreciate. If they love to cook, for instance, a cookbook or an inexpensive kitchen gadget would be ideal. Whatever you bring, make sure it’s not something that makes
your host or hostess work. For example, if you choose to bring a bouquet of flowers, arrange them in a vase before arriving so they don’t have to. Remember, this gift is meant for the hosts to enjoy after the guests have gone home. They’re not obliged to share it with you or anyone else, so don’t expect them to.
Hope Your Holiday Is Trimmed With Happiness To all our neighbors near and dear, thanks so much for stopping here. Your visits and your friendly ways have made us grateful every day. So deck the halls and light the tree, enjoy the laughter and the glee. We wish you all the very best these Christmas weeks and all the rest!
Christmas checklist To avoid holiday mayhem, you need to remain organized in the days and weeks leading up to the main event. Here’s a checklist that will help you keep track of everything that needs to be done before Christmas. Entertaining • Choose a theme for your party. • Send out invitations • Make reservations (caterer, restaurant, event space, cleaning crew, Santa Claus) • Decide on a menu (don’t forget to consider your guests’ dietary restrictions) • Make separate grocery lists for what can be purchased weeks in advance and what must be bought in the days before • Start cooking (make dishes in advance and freeze them) • Make a seating plan and choose the table decorations • Obtain any extra dishes, napkins or chairs you need • Choose the music and plan party games • Clean the house from top to bottom • Prepare a room for overnight guests • Make sure your driveway and walkway are clear
Buying gifts • Organize a gift exchange • Start shopping early to avoid crowds • Make note of what to buy for each person on your list • Write Christmas cards and send them out early to ensure they arrive before the holiday • Help your kids write their letters to Santa and send them off • Buy wrapping paper, ribbons and bows • Wrap gifts as you buy them to avoid doing it all at once, and hide them until the big day Decorating the house • Go through your decorations and throw out and replace anything that’s broken • Hang outdoor decorations before the cold weather arrives • Decorate the inside of the house • Don’t set up your natural Christmas tree until a week or two before the day (or it will be dry by the time Santa arrives) Keep this checklist handy to make sure you don’t forget anything this season.
Merry Christmas And Happy New Year!
Thanks & Merry Christmas
May the joy of Christmas reside in your heart and home today and throughout the coming year.
Highway #13 West Assiniboia, SK
306-642-5991
Thank you for your continued patronage throughout the year and best wishes for a joyous holiday season!
www.youngs.ca
Laureen Brezinski
Yuletide Greetings Beautiful, peaceful, full of happiness too, is the holiday season we wish for you. May it find you surrounded by family and friends, good cheer and good times, from beginning to end.
With appreciation for your friendship and patronage, we wish you a warm and wonderful season. Customers like you have really made our year special. Thanks, and Happy Holidays!
Laureen’s Place For appointments call
306-642-8663
From Our Family to Yours,
Best Wishes for a Merry Christmas! Brightly wrapped boxes… stockings stuffed with surprises… fresh Christmas cookies… twinkling trees all aglow… Of all the special gifts the holiday season delivers, we appreciate the friendship of good folks like you most of all.
Thank you for delighting us with your visits this year. We look forward to serving you again soon, and we wish you the merriest of holidays.
henko Judy Mowc
Bernie Chevrier
Crystal Fettes
Sharei Edgerton
Dec 24th 9:30 - 1:30 • Dec 25 & 26 closed Dec 27 & 28 - 9:30 - 5:30 • Dec 30 & 31 - 9:30 - 5:30 Jan 1 - closed Jan 2 - back to regular hours 102 1st Ave. • Assiniboia Plaza • 306-642-3202