Stettler Independent, December 09, 2015

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December 9, 2015 STETTLER, ALBERTA

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Sports

Stettler girls win weekend tournament p.13

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Community Cantus Choir and Jazz Guys perform to seasonal tunes

p.2 District

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Children’s Christmas party on Sunday See column

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Stacey Lavallie/Independent reporter

Steve and Candace Maruk stand outside their home, which is decorated from rooftop to foundation in lights. The lights, which are also strung up to make little Christmas trees on the lawn and on the property’s trees, are timed to music, which can be heard in the vicinity of the home on 88.5 FM.

Distant experiences inspire musical Christmas decoration at Stettler home STACEY LAVALLIE INDEPENDENT REPORTER It was while separated from his family, sitting in the sweltering heat of the Egyptian desert, that the idea came to Steve Maruk.

He was sating his longing for Christmas decorations and snow by watching Christmas videos on YouTube when he discovered houselights set to music. The rhythmic flashing and pulsing captivated the Stettler man, whose wife and son were back in the community while he worked for oil in the Middle East.

“I told myself I was going to do that when I got home,” Maruk said. “It was Christmas

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away from my family, and there’d been several Christmases away from them.”

The dream of returning home to spend Christmas with his family, and creating a majestic musical lightshow, kept him going through the rough times that were to come.

Maruk was working in Egypt during the “Arab Spring,” a revolution that saw the Egyptian government overthrown and the Muslim Brotherhood take power. It wasn’t long after that the military staged a coup, unseating the Brotherhood and imprisoning its leader. All the while, the Muslim terrorist group, ISIL, was threatening the company Maruk worked for.

“It was an everyday thing,” he said. “You

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paid attention to it, but didn’t let it get to you.”

Still, Maruk dreamed of Christmas with his family. Whether or not he’d be able to go home that year depended on the political situation, because unless it stabilized, it wouldn’t be safe for Maruk to be out and about.

After the death of a colleague, and given the continuing destabilization of the safety situation in Egypt, Maruk finally made his way home to Canada, meeting his newborn son Nash and reuniting with his wife, Candace and son, Gage. And still, he dreamed of Christmas lights.

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The Cantus Choir sang to a packed audience at the Stettler Alliance Church on Sunday, Dec. 7.

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The Cantus Choir and the Jazz Guys took to the stage at the Stettler Alliance Church on Sunday, Dec. 7 as they mesmerized the crowds

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with a variety of music and musical styles.

Cantus Choir’s David Brunner opened the evening with ‘O Aula Nobilis’, which translates to, ‘O noble hall and pride of the school,/ Off all the halls and most outstand-

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ing,/ Adorned by the skills of many men,/ Echoing this day with the songs of young voices;/ We wish you well, we praise you;/ Prosper from generation to generation.

According to Gordon Moorlag, director of Cantus Choir, the song has a highly rhythmic, asymmetrical and angular character, with a bright, resonant and festive quality and has been a challenge for the choir and their accompanist, Betty Stokoe.

The Cantus Choir performed first and followed by a short break the Jazz Guys took to the stage with their popular numbers.

STETTLER WEEKLY FORECAST information provided by theweathernetwork.com

Wednesday December 9

Thursday December 10

Friday December 11

Saturday December 12

Sunday December 13

Monday December 14

Tuesday December 15

Scattered flurries

Mainly sunny

Scattered flurries

Mainly sunny

A mix of sun and clouds

A few flurries

Mainly sunny

High 1 Low -8

High -1 Low -5

High -2 Low -8

High -3 Low -6

High 5 Low -2

High -3 Low -7

High -2 Low -7

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

STETTLER INDEPENDENT 3

Police searching for thief behind ‘brazen’ break-in STACEY LAVALLIE INDEPENDENT REPORTER A residential break-in last Wednesday, Dec. 2 was called “brazen” by Stettler RCMP Cpl. Cameron Russell, as it happened during the evening rush hour around 6 p.m.

According to Russell, the home-owner stepped out of the home for a short time and returned to find the front door pried open. Several items were stolen, including several thousand dollars worth of camera equipment, police said.

The suspect was caught on surveillance cameras, and is described as a slender white man with short hair, between roughly 5-foot-7 and six-feet tall, though Russell said with nothing in the background to lend itself to comparison, the height is a rough estimate.

The home, located on the edge of Stettler, was broken into at a time when there was a lot of traffic in the area, Russell said.

Stolen plate leads to drug charges A traffic stop prompted by a stolen licence plate re-

sulted in drug charges against a 22-year-old Stettler man.

Bryce Moore was stopped by a Stettler RCMP member on Monday, Dec. 7 around 9:30 p.m. after the black 1999 Hyundai Tiburon’s plate flagged as stolen.

Russell noted the vehicle itself was not stolen, but the plate was stolen mid-November and reported missing by its owner.

During the precautionary search after arrest, Moore was allegedly found to be in possession of a “substantial” amount of marijuana and a small amount of crystal methamphetamine.

“The marijuana was packaged for sale,” Russell said, and charges of possession of a prohibited substance for the purpose of trafficking was added to the charge of theft. Russell was remanded in custody until a bail hearing on Tuesday, Dec. 8, the results of which were not available by press time.

Charity check stop brings in thousands The Charity Check Stop this past weekend in front of Wal-Mart on Highway 12 brought in just shy of $5,200, money that will go to Heartland Victim Services,

Association of Communities Against Abuse (ACAA) turns 25 MOUSH SARA JOHN INDEPENDENT REPORTER Community members turned up in big numbers on Tuesday, Nov. 24 to show their support for Association of Communities against Abuse (ACAA), as the organization celebrated its 25th anniversary at its premises, adjacent to Christ King Catholic School.

“It is an amazing milestone for ACAA to be able to celebrate 25 years, finally, although there have been many times over the years in the past when we have been unsure about funding, or our funds have been cut,” said Judi Beebe, executive director, ACAA. “We do many fundraising activities over the year and have many organizations and individuals who donate to us as well, and this helps us keep going.”

It was an afternoon of speeches and gratitude as the small space at the ACAA office filled up quickly.

Also present at the event was Crowfoot MP Kevin Sorenson, who, in his

speech, expressed gratitude to ACAA and all its board members for continually stepping up to help people in the community.

Lance Penny, chairperson, ACAA said, “Realizing that for a quarter of a century of supporting an organization that seeks to heal victims of sexual abuse helps me to see that with determination and time, positive changes in destructive attitudes and behaviour can happen and that feels so encouraging.”

Beebe expressed her gratitude to the board members and all the staff who have kept ACAA going.

“ACAA also has an amazing group of board members, therapists and staff who have stayed with the program through thick and thin,” said Beebe. “We have a unique model that is rural based and client focused.”

Scotiabank hosts bake sale in support of ACAA In an effort to fundraise and support ACAA, Scotiabank hosted a bake sale on Friday, Nov. 27.

“We have had a bake sale

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for the past six years, organized by the staff at the branch,” said Kelsey Howe, Scotiabank staff and organizer. “Our first bake sale was to support one of my family members who was going through radical cancer treatment at the Mayo Clinic, and since we have supported various local charities.”

The sale raised a total

of $1,050.00 with the bake items disappearing fast.

“We had an excellent turn out in terms of baking and people coming out to buy the baked goods, and this was our best bake sale since the first sale,” said Howe.

The baking items were provided by the Scotiabank staff, friends, family and board members of ACAA.

Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD) and the Stettler Hamper Society. The money is raised by RCMP, SADD, Victim Services and other emergency services during a several-hours-long block where traffic is voluntarily diverted and money collected from kind individuals.

Get your tickets at Wells for

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COMMUNITY CHURCHES Attend the church of your choice.

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST MENNONITE Sunday School – 10 a.m.

Service – 10:45 a.m.

10 miles south on 56 and 2 miles east

Minister Keith Klassen - 403-742-4048 Minister Lorne Toews - 403-742-8824

EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH OF ERSKINE

STETTLER ALLIANCECHURCH Morning Worship – 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Scott Whitford Associate Pastor Brad Epp Associate Pastor Tyler Ans 6109 - 41 Ave.

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STETTLER COMMUNITY CHURCH

10:30 a.m. – Worship Service with Children's programming up to grade 6.

Sunday Services – 10:30 a.m. & 5 p.m. www.stettlercommunitychurch.org

Lead Pastor: Rev. Ross Helgeton Youth Pastor: Emmett Aronson

Pastor Nolan Haring 5717 - 50 Ave.

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STETTLER UNITED CHURCH ST. GEORGE’S - 51 Street 403-742-3387 ANGLICAN CHURCH 4820www.stettlerunitedchurch.org Sunday Worship — 10 a.m.

Thursday Worship — 7:30 p.m.

The Rev. Dr. Carolyn Langford, Incumbent 4817 - 51 St.

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ST. PETER LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday Worship Service – 10:30 a.m.

Children's Church – 10:30 a.m.

5712 - 48 Ave.

403-742-3211

Church service – 10:30 a.m.

Nursery care, children & youth programs. Everyone welcome!

Minister Jan Richardson Minister Lyn Lamers

Meet Buddy! This sweet fellow is four years old and a Husky/Shepherd cross. Buddy thinks that cats are okay and dogs are even better. He likes to play with children, especially older ones with lots of energy. Buddy likes to hang out in his foster family s yard and play with his foster pup. Buddy is just fantastic off leash and is a very loving and loyal guy who will be your friend for life.

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Pet Owners Helping Pet Owners

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4 STETTLER INDEPENDENT

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Interim budget approved for coming year

Distant experiences inspire…

Actual budget and tax increases expected in May STACEY LAVALLIE INDEPENDENT REPORTER Though it’ll be May before the Town of Stettler votes its final budget into place, the interim operating budget has been structured around a two per cent increase for 2016.

Council unanimously approved the interim operating budget at its regular Tuesday, Dec. 1 meeting. The interim budget is required under the Municipal Governance Act (MGA) and must be in place before Jan. 1, 2016, so that the town can continue to pay its employees’ wages and service its debts, council heard.

With both an operating and capital expenditures budgets to create, it takes until around May before the process completes. The town must also wait to find out from the government which grants it will receive before a final tax rate can be set for the year.

In the past several years, council has instructed staff to draft its interim budget around a three per cent increase. Last year’s actual budget came in at a 4.39 per cent increase once the process was complete.

This year, staff worked out a draft with a two per cent increase given the gravity of the economic situation, knowing a smaller tax bill would be appreciated by the town’s residents.

At this juncture, though, it’s impossible to know what the final tax rate will be, Steve Gerlitz, the town’s assistant CAO, said.

A few minor utility increases were approved

continued from front page

at the meeting as well as the interim budget.

Water bills will see a one-cent increase on its water per cubic metre cost, going from $2.72 to $2.73. Wastewater rates will see an increase of 50 cents, going from $21 to $21.50. There will be no increase in cost on recycling pick-up, but garbage pick-up will increase from $21 to $22.50, an increase of $1.50 a month.

“Garbage is no longer cheap,” CAO Greg Switenky said. Costs from pick-up to inclusion in Stettler Waste Management Authority (SWMA).

Bad-debt write-offs With 2015 in its final days, a list of “bad debts” were presented to council for approval for writeoff. The debts, if written off, would go to a collection agency to be collected. Any debt in excess of $300 requires council approval, and the sum of those debts came to $10,731.24, according to staff. An additional 14 accounts with debts under $300, totalling $1,706.22, were written off.

The vast amount of the bad debts come from utilities left unpaid, for a total of $9,395.80, it was revealed. One unpaid camping bill from the Lions Campground and one fire call were also left unpaid to make up the remainder, it was heard. In the bad debts making up the less-than $300 category, the vast majority of the unpaid debts were again in utilities.

Though the numbers seem large, the bad debts actually only represent 0.31 per cent of the town’s revenues, which last year were roughly $3.5 million.

“I’m lucky that she lets me do this,” Maruk said of his wife, Christine. “I couldn’t do this if she wasn’t on board.”

Maruk began scouring the Internet for information and materials, and soon lights, cables, wires and other electronics began to fill up space in his home. The first time the Maruks did the Christmas lights to music was last year, and it took a long time to get it set up.

“People would see me up there, go about their business and come back and still see me up there,” Maruk said. Handmaking all the wires he needed for the spectacle took a bruising 11 hours. The end result, though, was worth it.

“We had a lot of traf-

fic come by,” Maruk said of the show last Christmas.

“People would park and watch. Then they’d come back with their friends.”

Having seen fi rsthand the poverty in which some of the people he worked with, or had working for him, in Egypt lived, Maruk said he felt compelled to use his home’s sudden tourist-destination status to do good. So this year, the family decided to try to help the community through collecting donations for the Stettler and District Food Bank.

“It took about 24 man-hours to set up,” Maruk said. “I added lights to the roof, and even if no one else would know they were crooked, I would. All those little clips take time to set up.”

On the first night the lights and music

powered up this year, Maruk collected about 100 pounds of food and $75, which was given to the food bank. And while the family just intended it to be a one-night thing, they instead decided to leave out a box for foodbank donations, and has been regularly stopping in at the food bank to deliver the offerings coming in.

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, Maruk said.

“One woman came by and started dancing,” he said. “When I went and talked to her, she said ‘This lights up my life.’”

And for Maruk, that was exactly the point.

You can catch the lights every night until 10 p.m. at Maruk’s home on 63 Street.

When in the vicinity of the Maruk home, tune in to 88.5 FM to pick up the music.

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Wednesday, December 9, 2015

STETTLER INDEPENDENT 5

Clearview schools Wildcat Theatre performance top-notch scheduled to get facelifts STACEY LAVALLIE INDEPENDENT REPORTER

MOUSH SARA JOHN INDEPENDENT REPORTER

The Wildcat Theatre production of A Christmas Carol: High School had the crowd at times booing and hissing the modern-day version of Ebeneezer Scrooge, while at other times clutching ribcages to ease the pain of gut-busting laughter.

With obvious dedication and hard work, Wildcat Theatre pulled off a polished, professional production that gave no evidence of being a “high school” piece of work, even though everything from costume design to sound production, onstage acting to backstage technical support, was all performed by students from William E. Hay Secondary Campus.

The play, a modern-day reworking of Charles Dickens’ well-known tale, “A Christmas Carol,” pits Meredith Priestly, a rich mean-girl left to her own devices by her jet-setting parents, against the kinder, gentler students of her school. As leader of the cheerleading squad, and playing the lead role of Juliet in the production of Romeo and Juliet, Meredith Priestly uses the weight of her bank account and her unpleasant attitudes to push people around.

The character of Meredith Priestly, adeptly played by Hannah McKay, is easy to immediately dislike, just as her “best friend” Melissa Barclay, played by Avery Marko, is so easy to like as a kind and easy-going person, often the victim of Priestly’s beastly behaviour.

That all changes when Mean-Girl Priestly is visit-

At the regular Clearview trustee board meeting held on Monday, Dec. 7, the board was presented with the annual report of the Infrastructure Maintenance Renewal (IMR),

by Russell McKay, director, maintenance services.

It was highlighted that most schools would be requiring some kind of maintenance upgrades, foremost among them the Botha School.

During the months of October and November, Peter Neale, associate superintendent, Clearview Public Schools and Russell McKay met with school principals and conducted site visits to determine possible IMR projects.

The management also reviewed facility audits conducted by Alberta Infrastructure to determine needs.

But, with the Alberta government decreasing the IMR funding for the academic session 2015-16: funding decreased by $479,024 to an expected in-year funding of $515,631, with carry forward balances from 2014-15 of $301,379, the total resources available is $817,010.

According to Peter Neale, associate superintendent, Clearview Public Schools, the gym at the Botha School would get new flooring because of safety concerns.

“The school gym was modernized a few years ago due to a flood and the current flooring which is a vinyl sheet is not ideal as a gym floor,” said Neale. “The new flooring will be a rubber surface that is highly durable and will have many of the same properties as hardwood with less maintenance, compared to hardwood flooring, which needs annual maintenance.”

Breaking down these figures for the Botha School was McKay, who estimated the following upgrades and financial requirements.

Although gym floor, duct cleaning, line of site (camera and remote locking) for office, LED upgrades for outside lighting, door locks for lockdown and eaves trough repair were priority, learning commons renovation, common area patching and repair and flag pole were second in priority, with storage container being third.

The cost of all the upgrades was estimated to be a little over $57,000, with the gym flooring taking the lion’s share of $18,000.

All projects that have been prioritized or marked as second priority are to be completed as soon as possible.

In general, resources available for 2015-16 are able to address all Priority 1 and Priority 2 level needs already identified across the board and all priorities total $1,026,177 with available resources of $817,010, after staffing cross-charges.

The largest Priority 3 project is the hallway at Stettler Elementary School at $48,000.

A roofing project is being reviewed for Erskine School, which is estimated at $175,000.

“IMR projects are facility-related projects supported directly by the Alberta government with a specific mandate to those dollars, i.e., dollars VJV RIMBEY received must be spent on IMR projects,” said Neale.

“A school division’s first priority is to ensure that health, safety and essential upgrading needs, inFRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 @ 12 NOON cluding emergent projects, are met, so school divisions should set aside a For more information and to consign please call contingency amount to Wes Skeels 403-843-2439 or 403-373-3081 address emergency projCraig Jacklin 403-783-5561 or 403-783-1453 ects.”

At this time, senior adNanson Vold 403-783-5561 or 403-783-0349 ministration is planning Regular Sales every Tuesday to proceed with Priority 1 www.vjvauction.com and Priority 2 projects, toPONOKA BRED COW & HEIFER SALE FRIDAY, DEC. 18 talling $801,727.

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Mean-girl Meredith Priestly, played by Hannah McKay, can’t be bothered to learn her lines in Romeo and Juliet, though Romeo a.k.a. Marvin, played by Schubert Hernando, is eagerly into his role. Wildcat Theatre put on three performances of A Christmas Carol: High School, a modern re-imagining of the Charles Dickens classic. ed by a former Mean-Girl, now a ghost, who warns her that she’s got this one last chance to change her ways. And it goes as predicted, with Priestly having visions of her past, her present, and her future over three visitations over three nights.

Visitations that are fraught with hilarity, but also touch on some of Priestly’s shortcomings, and what created them —

like the distance from her ever-absent parents. By the time the third visitation, this time by Death, is complete, the nasty, mean Meredith Priestly is redeemed, and becomes a kinder and more considerate individual towards not just her friends, but everyone, including her teachers.

Wildcat Theatre put on three showings of the play, all at the Stettler

Performing Arts Centre, between Thursday, Dec.3 to Saturday, Dec. 5. The Dec. 4 performance was a dinner theatre evening, with attendees enjoying a catered dinner in the school’s cafeteria prior to the play itself.

While none of the three shows were completely sold out, most of the seats were full and attendance was high, the performance bringing in more than just family and friends.

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6 STETTLER INDEPENDENT

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Wednesday, December 9, 2015

How will Notley sail the boat?

MUSTAFA ERIC INDEPENDENT EDITOR It is wise to see and admit a mistake and try to correct it, but sometimes the mistakes inflict much too damage that might prove impossible to undo.

Whether provincial government’s Bill 6, in its initial form, will turn out to be that kind of a mistake, only time will tell; but one thing is certain for anybody to bet their boots on: Wildrose and, if they can, Progressive Conservatives will try to milk this cow until the voting day in the next provincial election.

Rachel Notley’s NDP government has been apologetic ever since the uproar by the farmers and ranchers made the leadership of the governing party realize the impropriety of the unnecessarily hasty steps to legislate in a highly sensitive area of provincial politics.

Not only have both ministers, Minister of Jobs, Skills and

Training, the main architect of the botched legislative draft and Minister of Agriculture made statements expressing regret for having taken a wrong step, but Premier Notley herself appealed to all farmer communities in an open letter to be patient until the amendments could be introduced to Bill 6.

And the amendments, as announced last Monday, seem to be far reaching enough to satisfy the main concerns of the farmer and rancher communities.

According to the statements

by Lori Sigurdson, Minister of Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour, and Oneil Carlier, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, the amendments will make sure that owners of farms and ranches and their family members, as long as they choose to do so, will be exempt from Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations and Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) coverage. Put simply, the requirements for regulatory cov-

erage under the new shape of Bill 6 will be only for those individuals who work on the farm in return for a wage. Given this clarification, neither 4-H activities will be curtailed, nor children or neighbours or friends helping with farm work will come under the protection of the worker-designated regulations.

Given that Alberta is still the only province in the country without legislation protecting agricultural workers, the need for regulatory arrangements to protect the rights of employees working on farms is obvious.

And this is agreed by most of the stakeholders.

But Wildrose seems to be dissatisfied with the changes.

After the announcement of the amendments, Wildrose MLA for Rimbey–Rocky Mountain House– Sundre riding Jason Nixon said more consultation was needed before any legislation on the matter and he called on the government to either kill Bill 6 or

send it to legislative committees for review.

It is quite apparent that opposition parties will not stop attacking the government over Bill 6 until they have made enough political capital out of the first major blunder of the NDP. It will be interesting to see how Mrs. Notley and her government will weather this storm: Will they resort to reefing, lowering their sails to reduce the speed of their boat or will they use tacking or jibing maneuvers without cutting down on speed to swerve through the waves to leave the storm behind and reach quieter seas?

The difference between the two might be as big as jeopardizing the next provincial election even before completing one year in office and laying the groundwork for a political force propelled to power by an urban thrust for a deeper understanding with a rural constituency it should not antagonize.

Irrigation policy seems baffling … but it’s government squandering at its best No it’s not about Alberta irrigation policy, that seems perfectly reasonable compared to the politically-charged and hidden agendas of irrigation policy in the USA. A recent visit to Phoenix Arizona found your columnist amazed at the sight of thousands of acres of cotton being grown in the desert.

Those acres were irrigated by water from the Colorado River hundreds of miles away. This would seem like a dubious agricultural enterprise considering the capital investment and ongoing operational costs of maintaining such extensive water distribution in a very hot climate. Water evaporation alone would be the biggest disadvantage to efficient water movement. But then you can depend on government policy to overcome common sense particularly if it involves agriculture in the USA. That sees the growing of government-financed irrigation crops that both solve and create problems that never existed before. It’s also a sure-fire avenue to massive subsidization of agricultural production, something Americans tend to deny exists.

To be fair, irrigation has existed in the Phoenix

area for hundreds of years being first initiated by indigenous peoples. Those early societies built extensive water distributions systems that irrigated hundreds of acres. But it was small scale that utilized existing rivers to grow modest crops of corn, squash and other subsistence crops. When white settlers came into the area in the 1880s, they began more extensive irrigation using dams, reservoirs and most important - drawing water from deep aquifers underneath the desert. That all seemed to work with farmers growing crops that returned modest profits like citrus, vegetables, potatoes and some livestock production. However, that was going to change with the building of the Hoover dam on the Colorado River. Because that river bordered Arizona, the state received a share of the reservoir water; the catch was that it was primarily to be used for agricultural crop production. That was a good intention, but existing farmers already were using water from other sources and saw no need for more water that was going to be very costly to deliver and buy. The

Ahead of the heard

WILL VERBOVEN

state of Arizona found itself in a predicament - they had access to a massive water source but few farmers wanting use it. However, they had an ulterior motive to see that water moved across the desert -they wanted to use it for their expanding urban population growth - particularly in Phoenix which is now one of the largest cities in the USA. However the US government would not finance the building of the 200 mile plus canal unless it was to be used for agricultural production. The solution was obvious, give existing irrigation farmers almost free water and then subsidize the growing of the thirstiest of all hot weather crops – cotton.

Crafty Arizona government planners probably

figured that in the long term, irrigation farmers would eventually sell out to land developers and the irrigation water would become surplus and then made available for urban use.

In the meantime here is how it worked; a three billion dollar major water canal was built by the US government.

Water from the canal is sold to irrigation farmers for a nominal fee.

To use as much water as possible farmers were encouraged to grow cotton which is seven times thirstier than any other crop. To make sure farmers stick with growing cotton, the US government provides a floor price for any cotton that is grown through a forgivable loan scheme. It guarantees a profit to growers no matter what

the cotton market price does. That’s a deal farmers couldn’t refuse. That market subsidization approach is much despised by other cotton growing countries as it constantly depresses world cotton prices. Most cotton grown in the US is exported to offshore countries like China for processing. It boggles the mind. It should be noted that some other crops like potatoes and alfalfa are grown under irrigation but they are minor compared to cotton growing.

There is more, because they have so much irrigation water available, conservation is not encouraged. That sees almost all irrigation using the ancient flood plain method rather than low pressure crop level pivots than reduce water usage.

Some subsurface flood irrigation is being developed but it also seems wasteful compared to what is done with irrigation in Alberta.

One can only imagine the billions upon billions of taxpayer dollars that have and will be spent on irrigation in Arizona and elsewhere in the USA. It all shows that we in Canada are bit players when it comes to agricultural subsidization.

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

STETTLER INDEPENDENT 7

Spooky Christmas movies on Friday at library CRYSTAL FRIARS STETTLER PUBLIC LIBRARY Christmas is only 15 days away and the calendar at the Stettler Public Library is packed with events for the whole family.

There are only two Wednesdays of Crafts ‘til Christmas left for the kids to make their gifts for teachers, parents, grandparents and more. Join us on Wednesday, Dec. 9 and Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. for an after school hour of crafting fun.

Kids ages 0-5 should bring their big people to enjoy some Winter Magic on Friday, Dec. 11 at 10:30 a.m. for December’s Read & Rhyme special event.

Join Kayla for some amazing winter crafts and activities for ages 0-5. It will be a great time for everyone.

Christmas can’t be all about peace and joy, so on Friday, Dec. 11 our Holiday Horror Double Bill (A Christmas Horror Story at 6 p.m. and Black Christmas at 8 p.m.) will thrill and frighten instead. Here is the lowdown on the two movies: A Christmas Horror Story “It’s the season of joy, peace, and goodwill… unless you live in Bailey Downs. Last Christmas Eve, two teens came to a grisly end in a school basement.

Now, one year later, a new set of horrors has come to town—a malevolent spirit, Krampus, the demonic anti-Santa Claus, and a horde of zombie elves make this a holiday no one will ever forget.” – Rotten Tomatoes; Black Christmas “A murderous fiend gives the residents of a sorority house a very scary Christmas by decking the halls with their blood and body parts in this early slasher film.”

– Rotten Tomatoes. Both movies are rated R. Come enjoy them with snacks.

On Saturday, Dec. 12 at 1 p.m., we are pleased to present Miss Rhonda’s Little Dancers. Join the littlest dancers from Danceology as they celebrate the Christmas season. And after the wonderful performance, stick around the same day from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. for Craftapalooza, our annual craft extravaganza for all

Christmas fun all around KASHEEN CLOUSON DONALDA DIARY The Donalda Kidz Klub will be held at the Sharon Lutheran Church Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 3:30 p.m. Everyone welcome.

The Donalda Library will be hosting a Ging erbread Villag e from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec 12; a fun afternoon for the kids.

Space is limited and those interested are asked to pre-register

by calling the Donalda Library at 403.882.2345 or to e-mail them at donaldalibrary@prl.ab.ca.

The Sharon Lutheran Church will be having Ben & Sandie Johnson and their three children performing on Friday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Donalda Hall.

Bring your whole family and a group of friends to enjoy this evening of songs and skits. There is no admission charge but a free will offering will

be taken.

Coffee, juice and Christmas baking will be served after the program.

Birthday wishes this week go out to Lexi Dietrich, Brayden Hofer, Samson Bailey, Bev Getzlaf, Jon Hilliestad, Lee Crumly, Tracey Klatt, Brett Shoettler, Lincon Bjorge, Ron Shoettler, Jaden Charles, Kade Strandquist, Mike Viske, and Frank West.

Happy birthday to all!

CHRISTMAS CHRISTMASOPEN OPENHOUSE HOUSE ages. Enjoy the afternoon making gifts and decorations for the holidays.

Thursday, Dec. 17 1 p.m. marks the last Tech Time for Seniors in 2015. Bring in your computer, tablet, phone, eReader, camera or other device and we’ll help you figure it out.

And last but not least for this week, the Stettler Public Library is pleased to present our second annual Holiday Movie Marathon on Saturday, Dec. 19 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Come see family favourites all day.

Popcorn will be served.

Please take note of our holiday hours. We will be closing at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve and we will reopen on Monday, Dec. 28 at 10 a.m. We’ll then be closing at 4 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and we’ll reopen in 2016 on Saturday. Jan. 2 for our regular hours.

Keep an eye out for additional activities on our website (spl.prl.ab.ca) and Facebook page. And if you have an activity you’d like to do/see at the library, feel free to approach us.

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8 STETTLER INDEPENDENT

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

In Him was life, and that life was the light of men

THE HOLIDAY

GIFT SUBSCRIPTION

A grandfather invited his grandson to help him find a Christmas tree. He told the little boy that he could choose which tree they would bring home.

They walked and walked stopping to examine many trees. However, none of them seemed to please the boy. Finally, with both the sun and the temperature dropping, the grandfather told his grandson, “We will have to take the next tree!” The bewildered boy asked, “Even if it doesn’t have any lights on it either?”

No wonder the little boy was confused. Christmas is full of lights of all kinds, everywhere. There are even competitions to determine who has put up the most spectacular display.

Some feel that most of the decorations at this time of the year detract from the true meaning of Christmas and I understand that. However, I tend to enjoy the profusion of ornamentation, and especially the

Faith & Reflection ROSS HELGETON

403-742-5020 • REVRH@TELUS.NET lights. They remind me of Christ, because one might accurately say that the predictions, birth and life of Christ are liberally and literally, “decorated” with lights.

Isaiah prophesied that Jesus’ arrival would result in people walking in darkness to see, “…a great light; and those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has shined” (Isaiah 9:2).

Micah, a contemporary of Isaiah, predicting the coming Messiah, referred to Him as, “…the Sun of righteousness…”

(Micah 4:2).

There was light on the

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Local Subscriber (60 mile radius)

$50.40 (including GST) Wayne Long accepts donation from Mike Tremmel of Tremmel Construction.

4810 - 50 Street, Stettler

403-742-2395

Kidsport wishes to thank Tremmel Construction for their donation to the program!

hillside where the shepherds kept watch over their sheep. “An angel appeared among them, and the landscape shone bright with the glory of the Lord” (Luke 2:9).

It was a light in the sky, provided by God, that the magi saw and followed.

In Matthew 2:2 they said, “We saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.” Later, in verses 9 & 10 we read that this star “…stopped over the place where the child was. They were thrilled and excited to see the star.”

None of this should come as a surprise because John, speaking of Jesus said, “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness…”

(John, 1:4, 5).

Jesus added later, “I am the light of the world.

Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life ” (John, 8:12). He emphasized and built upon this later by saying, “I have come into the world as a light so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness” (John 12:46).

So…when you plug in your Christmas lights this year, don’t forget the most important Light of all. “Jesus was the real light—the light that comes into the world and shines on all people” (John 1:9).

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

STETTLER INDEPENDENT 9

Family contributions to bake sale will be appreciated Such a warm December is wreaking havoc for the ice at the skating rink, but be patient and you will be skating on it soon.

Coming up at the Erskine School Tuesday, Dec. 15 is the Junior High Drama Night; Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. on Thursday Dec.

17. Swimming Pool Party from 1 to 2 p.m. on Dec. 18 for grades ECS to 6, and on Dec. 21 Christmas break begins. School will be back in on Jan. 4.

The parent council is asking each family from ECS to Grade 6 to bring two articles of baking

(1 dozen each) for the Christmas Concert Bake Sale. All baking will be sold after the concert and all proceeds will go to the parent council, which, in turn, goes back to the students.

Phase 1 is completed for providing water to

Erskine Enquirer PAT KELM

403-742-0604

the school and hopefully Phase 2 will begin shortly.

The Tailcreek Snowbirds has the Christmas Card up at the post office, if you would like your name on it, donations can be made in the post office.

The Erskine Recreation Board will hold its Christmas meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 15. Come on

out and find out what is going on in your community as well as enjoy some goodies.

Dance Jams is this Sunday at the IOOF Hall from 1 to 4 p.m. Come on out and enjoy.

A donation to lunch would be appreciated.

10 STETTLER INDEPENDENT

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Girls begin basketball season with a win REBECCA RAHN WILDCATS’ CORNER This week at William E.

Hay Stettler Secondary Campus the basketball season has officially started. The senior girls’ team

Donation to

won their first game. The JV basketball teams have a home tournament this weekend. Play begins at 1:30 on Friday afternoon.

The Night of the Bands will be at 7 p.m. on Dec. 14 at the PAC. Come out and support your local bands.

The wreaths came in for the students going to New Orleans. It was very successful and everyone came to pick them up.

The Christmas Carol

High School finished up this weekend on Dec. 5.

Both spectators and cast had a wonderful time.

The dinner theater was a blast and everyone stayed in character the whole time. The food was wonderful. We would like to send a huge “thank you” to Mr. Huo and all the students that stayed to make the food. Another big thank you goes to all those people who helped make the play successful.

Contributed photo

Are you tired of wearing dentures?

Jordan Frederick, Rebecca Rahn and December Gagne at Mrs. Langford’s TA rummage sale/used book sale for the Christmas Hamper fundraiser.

We have a denture solution that would anchor to implants.

IMPLANT DENTURES Darrel Baltimore accepts donation from Lorri Nattestad of Johnson-Connor Agencies (1987) Inc.

Kidsport wishes to thank Johnson-Connor Agencies (1987) Inc. for their donation to the program!

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Sports

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

STETTLER INDEPENDENT 11

Stettler girls win weekend tournament MOUSH SARA JOHN INDEPENDENT REPORTER Stettler girls’ basketball team had a great start to the season when they won the tournament over the weekend, Dec. 4-5 in Olds, beating Sundre in their final game.

The three teams they faced on their way to the title were Sylvan Lake, George McDougal and Sundre, winning by 40-50 points in each game.

“We had a lot of fun and bonded as the teams we faced were not much of a competition for us, they were all quite weak,” said coach Kim Poapst. “Our team has an edge with experience from last year with two senior players and ten returning JV players.”

According to Poapst, all the girls on her team are “coachable, they run and have goals as indivduals”.

Poapst added, “Our bench is strong, but some of our weaknesses would be fast break against a harder team and defence not fouling.”

Poapst is hopeful that her team will score major successes this year.

“Some of our players played club basketball last

spring against some hard competition and this group of girls have been playing together for a few years, not to overlook the fact that they have continuity by having the same coach,” said Poapst. “All the players have very supportive families, are hard working and dedicated girls who want to improve.”

The stumbling block that Stettler faces is although they have 14 players, they have only one team but no senior team.

Poapst hopes to change that.

“Since there is no senior team, we would want to build a team for next year, so we can have two teams again,” said Poapst. “This year our girls are bigger, stronger, smarter, faster, better shooters and entertaining to watch!”

Poapst hopes to capitalize and build on these strengths.

“My aim is to improve each game offensively and defensively, to win the league championship and find some exhibition games with some city JV teams to see how we compare,” added Poapst.

The girls play Lacombe in their next game in Stettler on Wednesday, Dec. 9.

Contributed photo

Champions: Girl Wildcats win the weekend tournament in Olds, beating Sundre in their final game on Saturday, Dec. 5.

Canadiens Alumni game draws fans from near and far STACEY LAVALLIE INDEPENDENT REPORTER For any hockey-loving Canadian of the ’70s, ’80s or early ’90s, Friday’s Montreal Canadiens Alumni game was an opportunity to see their hockey legends in the flesh, close and personal — though not as personal as that of the men and sole woman who skated against them.

The evening pitted the Canadiens against a team of Stettler All-Stars, players who did admirably well against their more experienced competitors despite losing 6-5, according to Hockey Hall of Famer Steve Schutt.

“The Stettler team started out pretty good, and then I think they run out of gas and our superior conditioning took over,”

Stacey Lavallie/Independent reporter

The Montreal Canadiens goalie falls flat on his back, blocking shots from the Stettler All-Stars several times with his body before regaining his position.

Schutt said after the game.

During his time with the Canadiens, between 19721985, Schutt won five Stanley Cups (1973, 19761979).

The Alumni play about 40 games throughout the season, though the ros-

ter changes. Some players play all, some play a few as they can get away from their other responsibilities.

“People always tease me,” Lise Collins, from Beaumont, said. “They ask me why I let my husband have two thirds of the

basement for his hockey shrine and it’s me.”

The floor looks like a skating rink and the wall is adorned with signed pictures, jerseys, and other Canadiens memorabilia. The VIP tickets were a surprise gift from her husband, who had also purchased tickets for the game the next day in Wetaskiwin.

The stands were full for the most part on both sides of the stands, with the far side being used as a beer garden. The 50/50 draw saw the lucky winner bring home $1,100 and business was brisk at the Canadiens table and the Penalty Box. Money raised from the evening will go to the Stettler Minor Hockey League and the Kinettes, who together organized the evening.

Bolts fizzle in second away weekend STACEY LAVALLIE INDEPENDENT REPORTER There was very little zap and a lot more fizzle for the Stettler Lightning’s second weekend of away games, with the team coming home with a loss.

The team travelled to Cochrane to face the top team in the southern division of the Heritage Hockey League, and the 7-0 loss showed the disparity in skills between the two squads.

Despite playing clean and staying mostly out of the penalty box, the Lightning weren’t able to capitalize on several golden opportunities, and the few penalties the team did receive saw their defensive lines tired out trying to keep the Cochrane Generals from adding to their tally.

“They got off to a decent start,” Doug Smith, general manager of the team, said. “The wheels fell off the bus in the second, though.”

He said right now coaching is focused on helping the team recentre and get back to the basics.

“They got to a point where they were starting to get competitive, and they started to cut corners — not realizing the corners was what made them competitive,” Smith said. “We’ve got to learn to get past the hiccups.”

Stettler holds last place in the northern division, closely trailing Ponoka. The team has two more away games, one against league first-place team Airdrie and another against Red Deer before they return to Stettler to play three games before Christmas.

12 STETTLER INDEPENDENT

Wednesday, December 9, 2015 Contributed photo

At the All-Star banquet in Rocky Mountain House, Cougars team celebrated with the other teams on Tuesday, Dec. 1.

Desmond Ansorger (left) received the assistant coach award.

Also present from left to right are Noah McKay, Steele Nichols, Carson Neitz, along with Stettler Cougars coach Mark Neitz.

Mart

Stettl

uct er A ion

Si

n c e 19 5 3

SALE DATES Phone (403) 742-2368

Regular Sales ~ Tuesdays - 9 a.m. website: www.stettlerauction.ab.ca Box 1238, Stettler, AB

Note: Online bidding and viewing each sale at 11 a.m. see stettlerauction.ab.ca Friday, December 11, 2015 -

Stock Cow & Bred Heifer Sale Advance listings: – 75 Black cross Maine heifers, bred Black Angus, bred Black Angus (76 lb. birthweight - Bismark). Sycronized and bred A.I., June 21-29, calving April 1-10, 1100 - 1400 lb. heifers, Coroview Stock Farms, Coronation.

– 60 Red & tan heifers, bred Red or Black Angus, calving Feb. 15 on - Garth Redman.

– 50 - 2nd to 4th calf Red Angus cows (12 - Tan cross Red Angus) bred Red Angus - calving March 20 on full herd health, dispersal of young end of herd - Roger Thompson - Edberg.

– 30 Red & RBF Simmental cross heifers, bred Red Angus, March 15 calving, home raised - Clarence Schultz, Bashaw.

– 50 - Dispersal of 40 Top Black Angus cows and 12 Black Angus heifers, bred Black Angus, May 27 to July 19, full herd health, Larry Meyer, Big Valley.

– 10 Tan and Red heifers, bred Black Angus or Red Angus, exposed June 25 - Brad Brenchley.

– 30 Hereford heifers, bred Angus, April calving, home raised - Vallet Herefords, Bashaw.

– 25 Black Angus heifers, bred Black, March 1 calving, full health program - Weldon Siedler, Delia.

Tuesday, December 15, 2015 -

Regular Sale FEATURES PRECONDITIONED CALVES Includes: – 55 Black Angus calves - Jack Anderson, Erskine.

Tuesday, December 15, 2015 -

Cougars’ awards night honours MOUSH SARA JOHN INDEPENDENT REPORTER Stettler’s Bantam football team Cougars held their banquet and awards night on Thursday, Dec. 3 at the William E. Hay Stettler Secondary Campus to honour and recognize all the efforts that the players have put in this season.

Players whoe were awarded based on their personal performances on and off the field were: Top offensive player – Noah McKay Top defensive player – Steele Nichols Most Dedicated – Myles Ecklund

Captain’s Award – Myles Niehaus Best Lineman – Justin Matchett Rookie of the year – Brett Mercier Timex Award (Takes a lickin and keeps on tickin) — Danny Lesage Most Valuable Player – Carson Neitz “I was very satisfied with play and performance of the team, they were a close knit group of boys on and off the field which helped in the chemistry of the team,” coach Mark Neitz said assessing the season.

“They didn’t quit like many teams I’ve seen and been associated with, when they were down in a game they kept scratching and clawing till the end.”

“It is great to bring the 2015 Cougars team together one last night to celebrate the season with these wonderful young men,” said Neitz. “I have coached most of these players for four years now and great friendships have been made, so it is just nice to spend the evening laughing and joking with them.”

Earlier in the week, the Cougars team went down to Rocky Mountain House to participate in the All-Star banquet on Tuesday, Dec. 1.

Three players were selected from the team to represent the league at the All-Star banquet – Carson Neitz, Steele Nichols, and Noah McKay.

Low registrations sink bonspiel for second time STACEY LAVALLIE INDEPENDENT REPORTER

For the second time this season, the Stettler

Curling Club has cancelled its opening bon-

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY Beef on a bun, snacks A good visit with neighbours & staff Plan to enjoy the day at Stettler Auction Mart

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Friday, December 18, 2015 -

Stock Cow & Bred Heifer Sale Tuesday, December 22, 2015 -

LAST SALE OF 2015 Thanks to all!

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Originally scheduled for Nov. 13-15, low registration prompted the club to reschedule the opening act for this past weekend, Dec. 4-6.

U n f o r t u n a t e ly, l ow registration struck again, Steve Gerlitz, one of the club’s board members, said.

“It’s a busy time of year,” he said, noting that he believed that was behind the low sign-ups — only two teams reg istered for the event, he revealed.

H However, he remains optimistic for the rest of the year.

“The next bonspiel is the Farmers and Farmerettes in January,” he said, adding that he hopes to see enough teams register for a great event.

As for the opening bonspiel, it’ll be one of the topics at this month’s board meeting, with the intent right now being to try and reschedule it for a second and, hopefully successful, time.

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

STETTLER INDEPENDENT 13

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announcements Obituaries

Obituaries

GRAHAM Rose (Irene) Graham was born on December 8, 1924 to Mary and Earnest Carter in a little sod house on the farm near Manyberries. The family moved a short time later to a farm near Hayter, Alberta where Irene shared her childhood with sisters Eva and Ruth and brothers Leo, Bill and Jim. Time was spent going to school and her favourite pastime riding horses.

She met Bob Graham when she was 15 years old, he was working on a nearby farm and would come every Sunday afternoon to play ball with the Carter kids and other neighbours.

In 1939 World War II began; Irene joined the Army on October 26, 1942. She and Bob corresponded through those years until the war was over and Bob came home. Both discharged from the Army and were married on November 26, 1945. On August 6, 1947 their daughter Linda was born. The next years were spent farming near Marsden. Then owning and running a café of which Irene was chief cook and bottle washer. The family later moved to the Provost area, then to Killam and then to Edmonton. They moved a lot. During these years Irene did hairdressing and owned her own shop in Edmonton. In 1962, they moved to Stettler where Bob worked as a gas Àtter for Burro Gas and then Canadian Propane. Irene worked for the Stettler Hotel and then Blokes Bakery. During these years she enjoyed gardening and even took 1st prize for her yard. In 1974 Bob was transferred to Creston, BC to manage the Canadian Propane Branch there where Irene spent most of her time gardening.

In October of 1976 she accepted Jesus as Lord and Saviour of her life and was baptised. Bob and Irene were on the move again. When Bob retired they moved back to Alberta to be closer to family and settled in Strome, Alberta. She again enjoyed gardening, baking and especially going to garage sales.

In September 2006, Irene and Bob moved to Willow Creek Lodge in Stettler. Bob passed away in January 2008 and Irene spent two more years there before moving to the farm near Stettler. She spent the next four years where she especially loved playing with her great great grandson Seth. In January of 2014 Irene moved to Points West Living. During the time she spent in the Stettler Hospital, prior to her passing, her second great great grandson James was born on November 12, 2015 across the hall from her. Irene went home to be with the Lord on November 29, 2015.

Predeceased by her husband Bob, mother Mary and father Earnest Carter, sisters Eva (Walter) Schowalter, Ruth (Auburn/ Hanky), sister in law Rose Carter, brothers Jim Carter and Leo Carter. Irene is survived by her daughter Linda (Ken) Repchin; grandchildren Tammy (Matthew) Durant, Gordon Repchin and Kent Repchin; great grandchildren: Kristi, Mikayla, Wyatt, Jorden, Amber, Steven, Robert and Alex; two great great grandsons Seth and James; brother Bill Carter and sister in law Alice Carter; as well as other relatives and many dear friends.

Funeral service was held in the Heartland Chapel of Stettler Funeral Home with Pastor Shawn Acheson, Word of Life Church, ofÀciating. Nathan Mullen presented his gift of music as well sang several selections. Great great grandson read “My First Christmas In Heaven” and nephew Tim Schowalter gave a loving tribute. Interment took place at Lake View Cemetery with Gordon Repchin, Kent Repchin, Tammy Durant, Kristi Repchin, Jordon Mayhew and Mike Lundle as Pallbearers and Honorary Pallbearers were Matthew Durant, Mikayla Repchin and all Irene’s family and friends. Family and friends joined together in the Heartland Chapel for a time of fellowship and a luncheon by the Fenn Ladies Club. Memorial donations may be sent to STARS, Alberta Diabetes or your own charity c/o Box 1780, Stettler, AB T0C 2L0.Condolences will be forwarded to the family at www.stettlerfuneralhome.com

CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS

1-877-223-3311

DOERKSEN Lorne Jacob Peter (Aug. 11, 1945 - Dec. 4, 2015) Mr. Lorne Doerksen of Ferintosh, formerly of Stettler, Alberta passed away on Friday December 4, 2015 at the age of 70 years.

Lorne is survived by his loving wife Delphine, and three children; Charlotte Doerksen (Jason LeÁer) of Edmonton, Sarah Doerksen of Red Deer and Tristan Doerksen of Ferintosh, four grandchildren; Aiden, Emilie, Bryce and Josephine, also Àve sisters; Josephine McKinnon of Dauphin, Manitoba, Loraine Funk of Tumbler Ridge British Columbia, Roselee (Gary) Keith of Calgary, Elizabeth Doerksen of Vancouver and Heather (Richard) Fehr of Dauphin, Manitoba.

Lorne was predeceased by his son Gregory and parents Jacob and Maria.

A public prayer service will be held on Wednesday December 9, 2015 at 7:00 pm from The Burgar Memorial Chapel (Camrose).

A Funeral Service will be held at the Ferintosh Community Center at 1:00pm on Thursday December 10, 2015, with Rev. Alan Richards ofÀciating.

Memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the Little Beaver Hi-U Centre in Ferintosh or to the United Church Missions and Service Fund.

To send condolences, please visit www.burgarfuneralhome.com.

BURGAR FUNERAL HOME CAMROSE & DAYSLAND (4817 51 Ave, Camrose, Alberta T4V 0V4) in care of arrangements. 780-672-2121.

“Dedicated service since 1906” FOESIER Patrick Gerard Joseph Mr. Patrick G. Foesier of Stettler, passed away November 28, 2015.

Patrick was born to Cornelius and Helene Foesier on March 17, 1949 at Drumheller, AB. Patrick is survived by: his Loving Wife, Trish; Sons, Shawn (Robyn) Foesier and Erin (Tonia) Foesier; Grandchildren, Logan, Faith, Able and Thomas; Brothers, Jacque Foesier, Gerald (Lorraine) Foesier and Bernard Foesier; and Sisters, Theresa Werner and Marie Turnbull. Predeceased by: His Parents, Cornelius “Nels” and Helene Foesier; Brothers, Nels Foesier and Aloyisious Foesier. If desired, donations may be made to Stettler Health Services Foundation Palliative Care, S.T.A.R.S. or to a charity of the donor’s choice. A Prayer Service was held at the Christ King Catholic Church, Stettler, with Reverend Father Don Ihekwoaba, OfÀciating, Thursday, December 3, 2015. A Funeral Mass was held at the Sacred Heart Catholic Parish, Red Deer, with Reverend Father Les Drewicki, Celebrant, on Friday, December 4, 2015, followed by Interment at Lake View Cemetery, Stettler. Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.brennenfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements in care of BRENNEN FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES - Stettler Box 193, Stettler, AB T0C 2L0. 403-742-3315.

EYE SPY… SPY… EYE Look for your name in the Classifieds (stating you’re a winner) and come to the Stettler Independent to claim your prize, compliments of KFC!

Obituaries

PALMER Mr. John Leslie Palmer of Big Valley passed away on November 27, 2015 at the age of 68 years. John was born in Calgary, Alberta on September 11, 1947. He is survived by his long time partner Lynne, as well as son Doug and daughter Lorena (Surven), grandchildren: Daniel, Josh, Raymond and Addison; other relatives and friends. At John’s request no formal funeral will be held; if friends desire memorial donations may be made to the Big Valley Fire Department c/o Stettler Funeral Home, Box 1780, Stettler, AB, T0C 2L0.

Sympathies may be forwarded to the family by signing the guestbook at www.stettlerfuneralhome.com STETTLER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORIUM 403-742-3422, entrusted with the care and arrangements.

In Memoriam KLAUS Sandi, Gordon, Monica & Lisa If memories bring us closer We are never far apart.

Because you’re always in our thoughts, And forever in our hearts.

Lovingly remembered by Mom and Dad Berry, Brenda & Murray, Lana, Nancy, Grant & Darlene, Trevor and their families

14 STETTLER INDEPENDENT

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

p

announcements Card Of Thanks

Card Of Thanks

The family of BOB DIPROSE wishes to express sincere thanks and gratitude to so many for their acts of kindness during Bob’s Ànal illness and passing.

A special thank you to Dr. Pieter Bouwer and the nursing staff of the Stettler Hospital for their excellent care of Bob. Thank you to everyone who visited, phoned, sent cards, food, Áowers and gifts, thoughts and prayers during this difÀcult time. We appreciate all those who took time from their busy schedules to attend the memorial funeral service for Bob. Also, thanks to all who made donations in Bob’s memory to S.T.A.R.S and other charities.

Your support made a sad time easier to bear. Thanks to the ladies of the Botha UCW for serving the lovely lunch.

Last, but not least, thank you to the staff of the Stettler Funeral Home for their compassionate and professional services. It was truly second to none.

Words cannot express how much we appreciate the outpouring of love and support that we have received from family, friends and neighbours.

Your kindness will never be forgotten.

The family of Doris Roberts would like to thank Stettler Home Care and Palliative Care Team Kelly Kruger and Deb Gitzel and Helping Hands Janet Campbell.

Special thanks to Doctor Bailey and all those individuals who partook in the care of our mother.

We would like to thank those who have traveled, sent Áowers, food, cards, sympathy messages, emails, and gave us phone calls, prayers and hugs to me and my family in our difÀcult loss of a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin & friend.

We will treasure you always, Remain in our hearts forever,

Dorothy Diprose Terry and Diane Diprose Don Diprose Rosemary and Les Stulberg And families

God Bless you & keep you.

Joanne Wiechnik & family

Just had a baby?

THE STETTLER INDEPENDENT

ClassiÀeds

Tell everyone with a Milestone Announcement

PLEASE READ YOUR AD Advertisers should read their ad the FIRST DAY IT APPEARS and report any errors in time for the next publication.

The Stettler Independent is responsible for only the Àrst incorrect insertion.

RATES: Word Ads - 1st Week 25 Words 1-25 $16.32 each week after $14.28 additional words .27 cents ea.

Garage Sale ads $21.85 addditional words .30 cents ea. (5% gst must be added ) DEADLINE:. MONDAYS @ NOON ClassiÀed Hotline 1-877-223-3311

Coming Events

What’s Happening #50 - # 70

Arts & Crafts Shows ..................50 Class Registrations....................51 Coming Events ..........................52 Lost ............................................54 Found ........................................56 Companions ..............................58 Personals...................................60 Bingos........................................64 Fitness & Sports ........................66 Happy Ads .................................70

Coming Events

52

GET MORE COVERAGE WITH YOUR AD JUST ASK FOR THE

CLASSIFIED N.E. BUY • • • • • • •

Ponoka News Stettler Independent Bashaw Star Castor Advance Weekender Lacombe Express Pipestone Flyer

Starting at 25 words for $53.55 Call toll free 1-877-223-3311 or Local 403-309-3300

52

Coming Events

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING

to the Red Willow Hall Sun., Dec 13, 1 - 3 pm!

1 pm Horse & Sleigh rides- weather permitting (Crafts as an alternate).

2 pm Santa arrives Enjoy Hot Chocolate & Cookies. Kids receive a Christmas Treat Bag!

54

Lost

$5000 REWARD leading up to or for the Ànding of 14 missing simmental cows and 13 calves. Cows have a brand of TLX on the left rib and also possibly a brand of PG (‘G’ is backwards) on the left rib. Calves are probably unbranded. Went missing in Alliance/Sedgewick area. Phone 780-386-3745 or 780-888-1258.

Personals

60

REWARD - I am offering a very nice reward for any video recordings of an assault that occurred in the THE LLOYDMINSTER early morning hours followEXHIBITIONS Pride of the ing the Big Valley Rodeo Prairies Bull Show and Dance in Big Valley, AB on Sale. March 6 - 7, 2016.

May 10, 2015. You may Traditional halter and pen remain anonymous. To format. Entry deadline: claim the reward contact January 5, 2016. For more recquel2@gmail.com. information: www.lloyAny help is very dexh.com. 306-825-5571 much appreciated. or email Sam: sam@ lloydexh.com.

TELL it all! Tell it well! Make your ads sell for you by giving full description of goods or services offered. Include prices and terms. Phone 1-877-223-3311 for a friendly ad taker.

52

Coming Events

Botha Community Centre is hosting its

Regular and Annual General Meeting

Medical

Employment #700 - #920 Caregivers/Aides................710 Clerical ..............................720 Computer Personnel ..........730 Dental ................................740 Estheticians........................750 Hair Stylists ........................760 Janitorial ............................770 Legal ..................................780 Medical ..............................790 Oilfield ................................800 Professionals......................810 Restaurant/Hotel ................820 Sales & Distributors ..........830 Teachers/Tutors..................840 Trades ................................850 Truckers/Drivers ................860 Business Opportunities......870 Miscellaneous ....................880 Volunteers Wanted ............890 Positions Wanted ..............895 Employment Training ........900 Career Planning ................920

790

Training for life

Medical

First Aid Training teaches how to respond confidently when injuries occur.

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career!

Employers have work-athome positions available.

Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-athome career today!

Professionals

790

MEDICAL TRAINEES needed now! Hospitals & doctor’s ofÀces need certiÀed medical ofÀce & administrative staff! No experience needed! We can get you trained! Local job placement assistance available when training is completed. Call for program details!

1-888-627-0297.

Restaurant/ Hotel

820

Cameron Bay Holdings Inc. o/a McDonalds’s in Ponoka and Red Deer (Gasoline Alley East and West) is now hiring full time and part time Food Service Supervisors.

Wages are between $13.95 to $16.00 per hour, depending upon experience and qualiÀcations.

Candidates must be able to work a variety of shifts and have 3 to 5 years previous experience. Must be able to supervisor up to 20 crew. Part-time applications will be accepted from Canadians and Permanent Residents. Apply in person 4419 Hwy 2A, Ponoka, 37479 Hwy 2, Red Deer, and 37428 Hwy 2, Red Deer or email resume to cbay22@telus.net or fax to 403-783-4251.

810

on

December 10, 2015 6:30 p.m. at the

Botha Community Hall Come out and help plan for 2016!

1.877.223.3311

52

BRADY ARMSTRONG and MARIE CHUTE are getting married!!!

We would like to invite you to celebrate our special day with us on DECEMBER 19 at the Stettler Community Hall at 9 pm.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Coming Events

EASY! The easy way to find a buyer for items you want to sell is with a Classified want ad. Phone 1-877-2233311

10

Enjoy singing, fellowship and lunch Admission by Food Bank Donation

Find the perfect gift!

1000's of items to choose from!

Call for Details John 403-742-2441

Mennonite Church

er

10 miles South of Stettler on Hwy 56 & 2 miles East

Sunday, Dec. 13 Ev

FOR fast results: Classified Want Ads. Phone 1-877223-3311.

Toys, Antiques, Novelties & Games

Mennonite Youth Christmas Program e

Annual Christmas Carol festival Wednesday, December 16 at 7:00 p.m.

Stettler United Church

52

Sale on Now!!

7:30 p.m.

Everyone welcome!

e!

For more information p Phone: 403-742-8868 40 or 403-740-3459

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER The Village of Botha and the Village of Gadsby are seeking an energetic, motivated, positive individual for the position of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to serve both Municipalities under a Community Partnership Agreement.

Reporting to the Mayors and Councils the CAO is responsible for directing all operations of both Villages.

For a complete job description please go to Botha’s web site: http://villageofbotha.com Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have: • A minimum 3 years of experience in Municipal Management and a certificate in Local Government or working towards certification • Excellent organizational, time management and communication skills, self-disciplined as well as a demonstrated team philosophy • Good interpersonal skills are required to deal with Council, contractors, the community and other municipalities • Extensive financial background, strong in budget preparation and financial reporting abilities • Proficient in information technology in particular Windows and Microsoft Office and Quick Books • A solid understanding of infrastructure, planning and development The Village of Botha invites interested applicants to submit their resumes and references along with expectation of compensation. The Village of Botha thanks everyone for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applications welcome until closing date or upon selection of a suitable candidate.

Closing date: December 30, 2015 Submit application to: Village of Botha or Village of Gadsby Box 160, Botha AB T0C 0N0 Box 80, Gadsby, AB T0C 1K0 E-mail: vlbotha@xplornet.com E-mail: vgadsby@xplornet.ca

Wednesday, December 9, 2015 Trades

850

Misc.

Help

STETTLER INDEPENDENT 15

880

ACADEMIC Express ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING FUTURE AG INC. owns and operates 4 branches throughout Central Alberta selling and servicing CASE IH Agriculture equipment.

We are currently looking for

JANUARY START GED Preparation Would you like to take the GED in your community?

Employment Training

900

HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION Specialists in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Contact us now to start your training day; www.canscribe.com.

1-800-466-1535; info@canscribe.com.

Business Opportunities

870

GET FREE VENDING machines. Can earn $100,000. + per year. All cash-locations provided.

Protected territories. Interest free Ànancing. Full details. Call now 1-866-668-6629. Website: www.tcvend.com.

Just had a baby?

&

Automotive

1029

JT AUTO BODY LTD.

Certified General Accountants 4814 - 49 Street, Stettler

403-742-5520 403-882-3740 (Castor)

“Serving Stettler & area for years” • Complete auto body repair & painting

Phone 403-742-2869 4606 - 40 St., Stettler

Drafting & Design

1120

House Plan Design Small Commercial Shop Drawings As Builts rg

e ahlvbice t S ika Ser Mon ting Draf

Phone: 403-742-6612 Cell: 780-935-0540 Email: mstahlberg@shaw.ca

Tax & Accounting Services

Business Services #1000 - #1430

Accounting

1010

4840 - 50 Street Stettler, AB

Phone: 403-742-3141 office@numeratax.com Corporate - Personal - Farm www.numeratax.com

Chapman and Co. Professional Accountants LLP

Ph:403-742-5979 Fax:403-742-3656 Box 1595, 4907 - 50 Street, tree ee et, ett, Stettler A AB B info@leschert.net

GET YOUR ADVERTISE AT BUSINESS OUT THERE 403.742.2395

Misc.

Help

Thorogood Pinches

Numera

900

INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT School.

Hands on tasks. Start Weekly. GPS Training!

Funding & Housing Available! Job Aid! Already a HEO? Get certiÀcation proof.

1-866-399-3853 or go to iheschool.com

1010

Call Curt or Rob

Agricultural Technicians and/ or Heavy Duty Mechanics

• Red Deer • Rocky Mtn. House • Rimbey • Caroline with Ag experience for our • Sylvan Lake • Innisfail Stettler location.

• Stettler This is a fast-paced • Ponoka environment and ideal candidate would be able to • Lacombe work with minimal Gov’t of Alberta Funding supervision, have the may be available. ability to take initiative and 403-340-1930 consistently demonstrate exceptional customer service. www.academicexpress.ca FUTURE AG INC. “People You Can Count On”, is Employment offering the opportunity to grow in your career with a Training thriving company. We offer COME AND LEARN. an exemplary beneÀts Unlock your Superpowers! package, hourly salary Jan. 29 & 30, 2016, from $27.50 to $30.00, Edmonton. AWNA’s annual work boot reimAnnual Symposium. bursement, RRSP plan, Educational Sessions in sick days, monthly bonus Journalism, Sales Ad & and continuous professional training in a positive friendly News Design. Internationally acclaimed speakers. environment.

Pre-Register. For more If you have a great attitude info: www. and integrity, FUTURE AG awna.com/symposium. is offering you an exciting career opportunity.

To apply, forward your resume to: Future Ag Inc. Attn: Markus Box 1510 Stettler, AB T0C 2L0 Fax 403-742-5626 hr@futureag.ca

Accounting

880

Guy Chapman, CA Chris Annand, CA Kendra Walgenbach, CA Naomi Roth, CGA P.O. Box 1328 4702- 51 Ave., Stettler Tel: 403-742-3438 e-mail: gchap@gchap.ca

G K D P

Gitzel Krejci Dand Peterson CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

GALEN WIEBE AUTO BODY REPAIR LTD.

Quality Collision Repair and Professional Service…

Guaranteed!

4905 44 AVE., BAY 2, STETTLER

Find out more about us at: www.brennanautobody.com

admin@railsidedesign.com

Contractors

Position: Permanent full-time Stettler, Alberta 15121DA0

1100

Eavestroughing

FINISHING TOUCH EXTERIORS LTD. 5”Continuous Eaves “Gutter Clean” Leaf Protection

Buzz Andersen Serving Stettler area over 35 years

403-742-1330

All types of Electrical Installation & Maintenance

403-742-5111

Furnace Cleaning

1193

Stettler Furnace Cleaning Qualified and Reputable

403-742-8838 *27 years experience*

Dust Devil

Furnace & Duct Cleaning

This paper is

% 0 0 1 le Recyclab

1196

C.R. GLASS

LTD.

“Your Service Specialists”

Randy Long • Residential • Commercial • Automotive Needs

(Beside A & W)

HEARTLAND GLASS

1210

Dr. E. LYNES Chiropractor

Call for more details 1-800-282-6903 ext 235

1.877.223.3311 Business Opportunities

Well Drilling

870

with a combined circulation of over 800,000 for only...

995 plus GST/HST

Value Ad Network

Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association toll free 1-800-282-6903 x228 email andrea@awna.com or visit this community newspaper

1400

Well Drilling

1400

NEVER SHOCK CHLORINATE AGAIN

Squeezthee MOST out of your advertising dollars Place your ad in this newspaper and12345 province wide $

1400

Well Drilling

Tell them Danny Hooper sent you

Big Iron Drilling’s patented

4719 - 49 St. Stettler, Alberta One block East of Scotia Bank

403-742-5810 or 403-742-6443

PERFORMANCE Physiotherapy, Acupuncture & Massage “Keeping people in Motion...”

Also: Rural Water Treatment (Province Wide) 1-800-BIG IRON (244-4766) View our 29 patented and patent pending inventions online at

www.1800bigiron.com

Legal Services

1260

Gary G. Grant Law Office 4910 - 51 Street Stettler, AB T0C 2L0

Phone: 403-742-4437

BRYON D. BALTIMORE of McCuaig Desrochers

Barristers and Solicitors Advocates 2401 Toronto Dominion Sq. Edmonton Centre Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2Z1 Telephone: 780-426-4660 Fax: 780-426-0982

4607 - 59 St., Stettler

Health Care

Add this feature to your next career ad booking

Comprehensive eye health and vision exams Top quality frames, lenses and contacts Treatment of eye disease, injuries and surgical co-management

403-742-2520

• Locks repinned & installed • Windshields repaired & installed • Residential & Commercial Windows & Doors • All your glass & screen needs Main St., Stettler Emergency 403-742-2665 403-742-3628

12345

Bus.: 403-742-2553 Res.: 403-742-0370

Phone 403-742-2683 New patients welcome

403-742-3418

Call Barry Harvey

4912 - 51 Street Stettler, AB Open Mon. - Sat.

Stettler Eye Care Dr. R. TROY NELSON

Serving Stettler & Area since 1978

Glass Shops

920

Tell everyone with a Milestone Announcement

“If It’s Electrical We Do It”

403-742-9823

Let us amplify your message!

Apply today at atb.com/careers

Chiropractor -Gitzel Krejci Building

1130

-Residential -Commercial -Farm Buildings -Renovations

403-742-4431 Toll free 1-877-742-4431 e-mail: gkdpca@gkdpca.com website:

Career Planning

FAX: 866-305-5686

1210

Health Care

DR. D.G. BECKLUND

Call Ryan at

www.gkdpca.com

Our Stettler location is looking for a Financial Advisor Associate

PH: 403-742-4101

Phone: 403-742-3555 4109 - 48 Avenue, Stettler

4912 - 51 Street P.O. Box 460, Stettler, Alberta

Have fun at work.

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL DRAFTING AND DESIGN

1150

Electrical

403-742-4533

ANDERSON LAW OFFICE

Brenda Anderson, B.Comm., LL.B. 5002 - 51 Ave., Stettler, AB Phone 403-742-2529 Fax 403-742-2522 ourlaw2@telus.net

LANDMAN REULE LAW OFFICE Lori R. Reule LL. B.

Stettler Professional Building 4819 51 Street

403-742-3411 CRIMINAL RECORD? Think: Canadian pardon.

U.S. travel waiver.

Divorce? Simple.

Fast. Inexpensive. Debt recovery? Alberta collection to $25,000.

Calgary 403-228-1300/ 1-800-347-2540.

Classifieds Your place to SELL Your place to BUY

16 STETTLER INDEPENDENT Misc.

Services

1290

EASY ALBERTA DIVORCE: Free consultation call 1-800-320-2477 or www.canadianlegal.org CCA Award #1 Paralegal.

A+ BBB Reputation. 26 years experience.

Open Mon. - Sat.

Personal Services

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

1315

HIP OR KNEE Replacement? Arthritic conditions? Restrictions in walking/dressing?

Disability Tax Credit. $2,000 tax credit. $20,000 refund. For Assistance: 1-844-453-5372.

IS someone’s drinking causing you problems?

INTERESTED IN the AL-ANON 403-346-0320 Community Newspaper business? Alberta’s weekly Plumbing newspapers are looking for people like you. Post & Heating your resume online. FREE. Visit: awna.com/for-jobseekers.

Roofing

1370

METAL ROOFING & SIDING. 32+ colours available at over 55 Distributors. 40 year warranty. 48 hour Express Service available at select supporting Distributors. Call 1-888-263-8254.

Personal Services

1315

CANADA BENEFIT GROUP. Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000. from the Canadian Government.

Toll free 1-888-511-2250 or www.canadabeneÀt. ca/free-assessment.

• Complete Plumbing & Heating Services • Commercial and Residential • Water Conditioning & Pumps • 24 Hour Service Service Wise - We Specialize

Auctions

Firewood

1660

AN EXCELLENT CHOICE WHERE YOUR AD REACHES RURAL READERS

CALL 1-877-223-3311 CLASSIFIEDS HOT-LINE

1530

Welcome Home!

Celebrating the birth of your child?

Share your happy news with family & friends with a special announcement in the Classifieds “Announcement” section.

1530

BIG STRAPPER AUCTIONS

UPCOMING SALES Wednesdays @ 6 pm.

12345 1-877-223-3311 CLASSIFIEDS

403-742-5237

at The Moose Hall, 2 miles south of Ponoka on Hwy. 2A HOW can you make your ~~~~~ phone ring and make some TO BOOK YOUR SALE quick cash?

CALL 403-782-5693 Place your ad here . . .

Check website for full listings Phone 1-877-223-3311 Ph.

1660

LOGS Semi loads of pine, spruce, tamarack, poplar, birch.

Price depends on location of delivery. Lil Mule Logging 403-318-4346

1660

Dec. 2, 9, & 16

Stettler

Firewood

FIREWOOD, PINE & BIRCH 4.5 kms. West of Stettler Call 403-323-0744

Buy & Sell #1500 - #1990

Auctions

1530

MEIER GUN AUCTION. Saturday, December 19, 11 a.m., 6016 - 72A Ave., Edmonton. Over 150 guns - handguns, riÁes, shotguns, hunting and sporting equipment. To consign 780-440-1860.

Firewood

1330

REACH OVER 1 Million Readers Weekly. Advertise Province Wide ClassiÀeds.

Only $269 + GST (based on 25 words or less). Call now for details 1-800-282-6903 ext. 228; www.awna.com.

Auctions

www.bigstrapperauctions.net

Specializing In

ROYAL LEPAGE ANDY BIRCH

* Residential * Commercial * Farms * Acreages * Lake Properties

NETWORK REALTY CORP. Independently Owned and Operated

Associate

Bus.: 403-742-3069 1-888-742-6685 www.royallepage.ca/andybirch

NEW

RUN YOUR OWN BUSINESS – Lease this restaurant & lounge located on one of the busiest corners in Stettler.

Located at the junction of two major highways, it has excellent visibility and a very high traffic area. Extensive renovations, completely furnished and ready for occupancy. #CA0072839.

Over 26 Years of Experience

Diamond Award Recipient

5002 - 50th Ave., Stettler

NEW

NEW

1 ACRE WEST END COMMERCIAL LOT: cleared, leveled and ready for development.

Close to retail stores and restuarants. Areas like this rarely come on the market. Don’t let this rare find pass you by. CA0072376. $294,000.

FAMILIES WELCOME HERE - A must see! You won’t be disappointed.

Excellent 2 storey home in a newer neighbourhood with 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, all appliances, and a spacious family room. Multi-tiered deck overlooking private back yard. Heated double garage. Great for first time buyer or if you are planning to move up. CA0072688. $310,000.

ATTENTION: INVESTORS & FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS - Take a look at this affordable priced mobile home on lot. Heated garage, newer siding, re-shingled garage roof, air conditioning, 2 full baths, walk-in closet & all appliances. Renting at $1100 per month gets you a reasonable return in today’s market. You win either way – as rental investment or starter home. CA0062773. $159,900.

ATTENTION INVESTORS - 2 suites showing returns over 8%. Lots of improvements. Plenty of parking. 3 bedroom suite on main floor & 2 bedroom suite in basement. CA0063941. $175,900.

NEW

BENEFIT 3 WAYS: It’s a winning situation. Buy to own - Buy to invest - Buy to build. First time buyer or retiree, investor or builder. This affordable comfy, cozy 2 bedroom/ 1 bathroom home is located on a large 49’x150’ lot. Garage is 24’ x24’. #CA0072335. $109,900.

Candor Realty Ltd. Ph. 403-742-4424 Fran Snowden

4908 - 51 Street

NEW

COZY 1.5 STOREY HOME on large lot (75’ x 150’).

2 bedroom / 1 bath. All appliances included. Oversized single garage. Very affordable and ready to move into. $109,900.

ACREAGE

3.11 ACRES north east of Erskine. Property has a new garden shed, large garage and a small cabin. Can be purchased with or without cabin. No services. $179,000.

Locally owned & operated

SOLD

Karen Cannady

ACREAGE

LOVELY MODULAR HOME IN BIG VALLEY. 1,860 sq. ft. of living space all on one level. 3 bdrms / 3 baths, double garage and sits on 2 lots. $220,000

5.3 ACRE PARCEL OF LAND only minutes away from Stettler. Ready to build on with all utilities to the property line. New approach completed. $119,900.

STARTER

REDUCED

MODERN 3 BDRM MOBILE on its own lot. Nice bright home, well maintained and all appliances included.

Ideal starter home for a young family. $173,000.

GREAT LOCATION! 1,280 sq. ft. bungalow with 3 bdrm / 2 bath. Mature landscaping and 2 garages.

Nice starter that needs some updating. $159,900.

Visit us at www.century21.ca/candorrealty for more listings

Advertisers in this showcase section maintain Real Estate offices in Stettler, are members of the Red Deer & District Real Estate Board Co-op Ltd., and all offer full multiple listing services.

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

1800

Office Supplies

WHITE 20LB BOND PAPER: 8.5 X 11

10 pkgs. of 500 sheets

$48/case

Shop Stettler & Save!

STETTLER INDEPENDENT 17

Grain, Feed Hay

2190

HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. “On Farm Pickup” Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-250-5252.

ROUND BALES - Hay, green feed, straw and bulk oats. Delivery available.

No Sunday calls please.

Phone 403-704-3509 or 403-704-4333.

403-742-2395 Travel Packages

1900

SAVE 30% on our Greenland and Wild Labrador Voyage until December 18, 2015. See Labrador as it was meant to be seen - By Sea Aboard the comfortable Ocean Endeavour. No extra charge for singles!

Quote Community Newspapers! Call toll free 1-800-363-7566 or visit: www.adventurecanada .com. (TICO #04001400).

1930

Wanted To Buy

FREE SCRAP and truck removal including farm machinery. We pay cash at our yard. 1-780-914-7560; www.sturgeonbusparts.ca.

Agricultural #2000 - #2290 Misc. for Sale

For Rent #3000 - #3200 Houses/ Duplexes

3020

BEAUTIFUL cottage $700/mo., plus utils., in Halkirk, AB. on large lot, 2 bdrms, newly reno’d 780-583-2380 2 BEDROOM house in the country near Donalda.

Available Dec 1. Mature renter. DD, $800 Rent includes utilities.

Phone 403-883-2381

Suites

3060

Spacious 1&2 bdrm units.

Balcony, in suite storage, water & heat incl.

Available immediately.

New managers Frances or Mic 403-742-4448

Suites

3060

2 bedroom basement suite with private entrance, utilities included, adult only, no pets. 403-742-2409.

BEST RENTAL VALUE IN STETTLER 1 & 2 Bedroom, furnished kitchenette suites.

All utilities, cable, internet.

Avail. immediately Kimberly 403-690-5828

Pasture

3180

PASTURE & HAY LAND. 400 - 8000 acres of year round water supply. Full operational with management available. Central Saskatchewan. Crossfenced & complete infrastructure. Natural springs excellent water.

Shortly ready to locate cattle. Other small & large grain & pasture quarters. $150k - $2.6m. Call Doug Rue 306-716-2671.

LARGE 2 BEDROOM overlooking Alix Lake, 1 1/2 bath, oak cupboards, vaulted ceiling, wood Àreplace, washer/ dryer usage, garage access, Real Estate $1050/mo. utils. incl’d, #4000 - #4190 plus dd. Avail. asap.

Realtors & Services..........4010 403-304-0146

Roommates Wanted

3080

ONE bedroom shared accommodations in Gadsby.

Phone 403-740-3209

Storage Space

3160

Houses for Sale................4020 Houses Wanted ................4030 Condos/Townhouses ........4040 Acreages ..........................4050 Acreages Wanted ............4060 Farms/Land ......................4070 Farms/Land Wanted ........4080 Manufactured/ Mobile Homes ..................4090 Income Property ..............4100 Commercial Property ......4110 Industrial Property ............4120 Cottages/Resort Property ..4130 Businesses for Sale..........4140 Buildings for Sale ............4150 Lots for Sale ....................4160 Out of Town Property ......4170 Investment Opportunities ..4180 Mortgages Bought/Sold....4190

STETTLER MINI Manufactured STORAGE Household, furniture, business records, etc.

Various sizes. Protected by security alarm and fenced and lighted perimeter. Owner: Reg and Darlene Hunter 403-740-9283 or 403-742-3153

Homes

HARVEST SALE! Save $50,000 from the replacement cost of this 20 X 76 drywalled Grandeur Showhome that has to go! A sacriÀce at $124,900. Call Terry 1-855-347-0417 or email: terry@ grandviewmodular.com.

Buildings For Sale

1760

WHAT ARE THEY GOOD FOR? ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING.

12345

4090

4150

STEEL BUILDINGS. “ Really Big Sale - Year end Clear Out!” 21 x 22 $5190. 25 x 24 $5988.

27 x 28 $7498. 30 x 32 $8646. 35x34 $11,844.

42 x 54 $16, 386. One end wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422; www.pioneersteel.ca.

Public Notices

6010

Community Support Services ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 403-742-4271; 403-742-1887

AL-ANON

Brenda 403-742-0990 Betty 403-742-5673

ALZHEIMERS SOCIETY

403-346-4636 Red Deer www.alzheimer.ab.ca

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Pat Lattery 403-742-3759

BIG BROTHERS & BIG SISTERS ORGANIZATION

403-742-5437 during business hours

BRIGANTIA PLACE

(formerly Camrose Women’s Shelter) 780-672-1035

CELIAC (Gluten Intolerance) Brenda 403-742-3067

COCAINE ANONYMOUS

Pager toll-free (20 sec. response time) 1-403-357-6266

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS 403-742-4059

HOME SUPPORT STETTLER & DISTRICT 403-742-6568

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Hot Line 403-342-1444

STETTLER & AREA ACQUIRED BRAIN INJURY SOCIETY (STABIS) For more information phone 403-742-6456

STETTLER FOOD BANK Betty Birch 403-742-0732

STETTLER CITIZENS ON PATROL RCMP office 403-742-3382 www.stettlercop.org

STETTLER HANDIBUS 403-742-5858

STETTLER HEALTH EMERGENCY LINE 403-742-6568

STETTLER PEOPLE FOR SUICIDE AWARENESS

Customizable and secure. From storage to workspace.

Steel containers from 8' to 53'.

20' & 40' skids with optional 4' landings available. Mount with twist locks.

Public Notices

403-742-2337

780 440 4037 | SEACAN.COM

Investments ......................4410 Money Wanted ................4420 Money to Loan ................4430

6010 Box 280 (5031 - 50 St.) Stettler, AB T0C 2L0 www.stettler.net

DEVELOPMENT PERMIT NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the following Development Permit Applications have been approved as permitted uses in accordance with the Town of Stettler Land Use Bylaw No 2060-15: 1.

No: Legal Description: Municipal Address: Applicant: Proposed Development:

Financial #4400 - #4430

Money To Loan

4430

BANK SAID NO? Bank on us! Equity Mortgages for purchases, debt consolidation, foreclosures, renovations.

Bruised credit, self-employed, unemployed ok.

Dave Fitzpatrick: www.albertalending.ca.

587-437-8437, Belmor Mortgage.

2904-2015 Lot 1, Block 1, Plan 1759KS 6102 - 50 Avenue Hankook Esso Ltd. Steel Frame Awning

Angela Stormoen Planning & Development Services

Public Notice #6000 Public Notices ..................6010 Special Features ..............6050

STETTLER READ & WRITE OFFICE 403-742-2999

T.O.P.S. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Grace - 403-742-0681 Vivian - 403-742-3935

VICTIM SERVICES 403-741-7841 CONFUSED? GETTING THE RUN AROUND? CONTACT YOUR INFORMATION AND REFERRAL CENTRE Residents of Stettler and the surrounding area now have access to this free and confidential service. It provides information and referral on social agencies, government services, clubs and organizations, to best suit the caller’s need.

Just Dial 403-742-1155

Contributed photo

Vice-principal Jeff Lee being duct-taped to school gym wall as promised in return for SES kids raising a lot of money during the Terry Fox run.

After concerts, SES students to enjoy movie before Christmas break SHARON FISCHER STETTLER ELEMENTARY NEWS It has been a very fun and exciting beginning to the month of December for the students at Stettler Elementary School. Our monthly assembly was held on Friday, Dec. 4, and on that day Principal Sharon Fischer and Vice-Principal Jeff Lee had to make good on their promises to the students.

The students were told that if they raised over $15 000 for the Terry Fox Foundation in September, the school administrators would sing to the whole school and would allow the students to duct tape them to the wall of the gymnasium. Both of these occurred on Friday, much to the delight of the student body. Also during that week, our students and music specialists were busy polishing up for the annual Christmas concerts.

On Tuesday, Dec. 8, we had our first set of concerts.

Half of our grades 2, 3, and 4 students performed for fellow students, grandparents, parents, and community members in three different concerts held that day. There were performances held at 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 7 p.m. Then on Wednesday, Dec. 9, our grades 5 and 6 music and musical theatre classes shared their talents with the public during the Christmas concerts that they worked hard to put together. Other concerts this week will be the concerts held on Thursday, Dec. 10, showcasing the talents of the remaining grades 2, 3, and 4 students.

Then next week, all of our remaining students will have an opportunity to share what they have been working so hard to prepare for this holiday season.

Our grades 5 and 6 band students will be a part of the annual “Night of the Bands” on Monday, Dec. 14, and our kindergarten and Grade 1 students will share their Christmas spirit and joy with everyone who comes out to their concerts on Tuesday, Dec. 15 and Thursday, Dec. 17. That will end the concert season for 2015, but our students will have an additional day of school before we dismiss for the Christmas Break. The staff and students will walk to the Jewel Theatre on that last day of school to enjoy a movie, popcorn and water as part of the final school day celebration. We would like to thank Sonya and Byron Geddes, owners of the theatre, for generously sponsoring this event again this year. We truly appreciate your support.

18 STETTLER INDEPENDENT

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Children’s Christmas party on Sunday LINDA STILLINGER BIG VALLEY BULLETIN Can you believe it, there are only three weeks until Christmas holidays.

The Big Valley junior highs have been making great progress on their annual Christmas Concert. Last week the grades 7/8/9’s auditioned for their character roles.

The younger grades have been working hard, practicing a lot, trying to get their songs perfect for the big night. For their school fundraising effort, the students will be having a bake sale and holding a “Santa’s Little Helper” auction.

Junior high students will be auctioned off in pairs during the Christmas concert with the highest bidders getting a day’s worth of work. Big Valley School students and staff hope to see everyone there to pick up some goodies, maybe buy a pair of Santa’s Little

Helpers and, of course, to enjoy the great concert they have prepared for you. See you at the Jubilee Hall on Wednesday, Dec.16 at 7 p.m.

If you aren’t yet aware, the Historical Society has a Facebook page where they post pictures of their new building’s progress.

A number of people have begun to follow the site, so if you do Facebook surfing, just search for the Big Valley Historical Society and check them out. Lately, they have been posting some older, historical photos—like the Village Hall in 1970 and the jail when it first arrived here. So far, comments have been quite favourable, so expect new postings regularly.

Fifteen players came out for crib at the Big Valley Inn on Sunday, Dec. 6.

Lawrence Wilkie won first place and had eight perfect games. Mary Wilkie won second place, Lillian

Kirtley won third place and Caroline Pound won the booby. Mary Wilkie won the regular draw. Hope to see everyone out again next Sunday at 1 p.m.

The Big Valley Dropin Centre will be holding their December community pancake supper next Monday, Dec. 14 beginning at 5:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome. The election of officers will be at the potluck and meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 15 at 12 noon. Seniors don’t forget to try out Monday and Friday night cards at 7 p.m., Sunday afternoon crib at 1 p.m. or stop by for coffee every morning starting at 8 a.m.

If you haven’t done it yet, please register your children for Big Valley’s annual Children’s Christmas Party taking place this coming Sunday, Dec. 13. Call or text Brenda at 403-7406552 or Catrina at 403-7417320.

Two Christmas concerts next week LES AND ROSEMARY STULBERG BYEMOOR/ENDIANG NEWS The Christmas season is upon us, even though it may not look like it outside.

Warm Chinook winds last week melted the little snow we had. It is looking like we are in for a brown Christmas perhaps.

A good crowd attended Santa Claus Day in Byemoor on Saturday. Many went home with baking, crafts, gift ideas or a Christmas tree.

Santa arrived from the North Pole around 2 p.m. and the youngsters got to get their photos taken with him as they described what they wanted for Christmas.

The 50/50 draw of $125 was won by Harvey Kassian of Stettler. He generously donated it back to the Byemoor hall.

The door prize was won by Mia Gallagher, young daughter of Greg and Samantha Gallagher of Hanna.

Eight-year-old Rylee Jones sold her homemade bracelets at Santa Claus Day and donated all the proceeds ($183) to the Children’s Wish Foundation. You have a generous heart, Rylee.

On Sunday, members and guests of the Endmoor floor curling club gathered at the Endiang hall for their annual Christmas dinner. They enjoyed a delicious ham dinner catered by the Byemoor Hotel then finished the afternoon off with floor curling. Santa also made an appearance and rumour has it that it was a female version.

Remember Byemoor School Christmas Concert is on Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. with all welcome.

The Scapa community Christmas Concert will be held on Dec. 19 beginning with a potluck supper at 5:30 p.m. (meat will be supplied). Any additions to the program are most welcome. Contact Thelma Bossert for further information

at 403-854-2393.

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Christmas service is on Dec. 23 at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join in the candlelight service at this historic country church.

Crib night at the Endmoor Drop-in Centre last Tuesday evening saw Eleanor Schultz post the top score for the third consecutive time. Appears you are on a roll, Eleanor — perhaps you should consider a trip to Vegas. Deanna Johnson posted the second best score of the night. Next meet is on Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m.

Get well wishes go out to Garnet McLearn recovering from triple-bypass heart surgery in the Foothills Hospital in Calgary and to Agnes Sorensen in the Stettler hospital. Your friends are thinking of you both and wish you a speedy recovery.

Herb and Helen Gutsche moved into the Hanna Lodge last week where they would be happy to welcome visitors. We wish Herb and Helen all the best in their new home.

Doreen Nixon and Evelyn Walker arrived home last week from a month spent at Apache Junction, Arizona. They reported the weather a little cooler than normal.

Happy 50th birthday wishes go out to Rod Yates on Dec. 7 as he celebrates half a century. Enjoy being the big Five – O, Rod. Those who watch the television program Heartland may be interested to know the wildlife officer who appeared on the Sunday night episode was played

by Christopher Hunt. The Calgary actor is the son of the late David Hunt who was youngest member of the Hunt clan from Endiang.

Christmas trivia — The Poinsettia is native to Mexico. The first printed reference to a Christmas tree was in 1531 in Germany.

Mother Teresa students liked Wm. E. Hay play ROSE KOENRAADT AND DOROTHY ANDERSON HALKIRK HERALD Mother Teresa students had the opportunity to attend a performance of ‘A Christmas Carol’ at the PAC in Stettler on Friday. They thought the Wm. E Hay drama class did an amazing job and they loved it.

Elks’ annual breakfast with Santa was held last Sunday with around 100 people; attendance was down a little but those attending enjoyed the full breakfast.

The Elks Christmas party and community appreciation supper was last Tuesday catered to by the staff from the Circle Square on Tuesday evening.

Bill 6 protest was held last Tuesday in Red Deer several from the area attended this packed meeting.

There are several youngsters from our community playing on the local hockey teams. Playing with Castor in Novice is Ella May Perry; in Atom are Brandyn Baird, Toryn Johnson, Ray Musgrove, Tayah Perry and Owen Schauer; in Peewee is Logan Perry; In Bantam are Brody Baird and Trey MacGillivray.

Playing with the Stettler girls team is Devon Johnson. Many of the rest of the teams’ players have ties to Halkirk and the games are regularly attended by grandparents, aunts and uncles. We are very proud of all these young athletes.

Coming up: Dec. 10 and Dec 17 – Hall board Christmas bingos with Ham and Turkey ; Dec. 15 – Mother Teresa Christmas concert at the school at 7 p.m.; Dec. 15 – regular seniors’ meeting and potluck at 6 p.m.; Dec. 17 – last day of school until Jan. 4.

Santa Day rides made kids happy PAULETTE HEER GADSBY/WESTWOODS NEWS Since the early 1980s, Gadsby has had Santa Claus Day, a tradition started by Bill and Phyllis Morlock.

When they no longer could do it, the Gadsby District Hobby Club took over and for 17 years they hosted Santa Day. It’s great to see the Gadsby Community Hall Board hosting their second annual Santa Day last Saturday at the hall.

Lawrence Clarke family were seen with their team of horses and wagon (weather being fantastic), taking children for rides through

Gadsby.

Percy and Paulette Heer, Jack and Melanie Ross were among the 34 people gathered at the Stettler Community Hall Saturday night for the turkey supper hosted by the Erskine E Free Church. A wonderful Christmas supper followed by a must see and hear Brian Doerksen concert of old and new Christmas songs.

Gloria and Stan Diegel helped grandson Elliot Skocdopole celebrate his 10th birthday on Saturday night with a family birthday supper.

Joining them at Greg and Richelle’s were Tasha and Aaron and family, Arden

and Deanne and family, Ybiett and family and also grandparents Jim and Dixie Skocdopole.

Happy birthday, Elliot!

Bill and Joyce Hansel have enjoyed a week of company with neice Donna and Markus coming Thursday, Marie Vance, then Dewey and Joanne Hoopfer on the weekend.

Vic and Barb Carey were thrilled to have grandchildren Tori and Jonah Jarmin on the weekend. They baked cookies, helped put up the Christmas tree and decorate. Joining them for the day, Sunday,were brother Taylor and his wife Olha from Edmonton.

The Advent season begins at CKCS

BY AUTUMN WYNESS AND HANNAH CANLAS, GRADE 7 STUDENTS Christ-King Catholic School students from Kindergarten to Grade 6 had their last day of swimming on Thursday, Dec. 3. Everybody who had swimming lessons enjoyed it and had fun. Results will be coming into the school this week.

Christ-King Catholic School celebrated week one of Advent on Monday, Nov. 30.

As a school, we lit the first purple candle. The Grade 6 class did a wonderful job leading the first Advent celebration.

We celebrate Advent to count down the four weeks until Christmas. There is a candle for each week. The first candle is purple and it stands for hope. We can have hope because God always keeps his promises and is faithful. The second candle is the candle of peace. The rose coloured candle is the third candle, and it stands for joy. The last candle is purple which represents love. At the centre of the four candles is a white candle

which is lit on Christmas Day, to celebrate the birthday of Jesus. All of these candles are on a wreath. The wreath is a circle to show God’s love is eternal. The candles are usually lit on the Sunday, because it is the first day of the week.

However, since there is no school on Sunday, we have our celebrations on Mondays. Each week a new class leads the celebration.

Christ-King Catholic School is having their Advent concert on Dec. 16. The theme of the play this year is “An out-ofthe box Christmas.” It is a musical which takes place at the final dress rehearsal for a Christmas pageant. When the costumes arrive, the actors pull them “out of the box” and see that they are all the wrong costumes. As they work together, the children come up with some unique, different costumes ideas that will tell the same Christmas story. It starts at 7 p.m. at the CKCS gym. Everyone is welcome to attend. Snacks and refreshments will be provided afterwards.

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

STETTLER INDEPENDENT 19

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20 STETTLER INDEPENDENT

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

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