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l a n o i g Re VOLUME 13 NUMBER 50
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015
‘Estrangement from nature’ concerns biologist New book helps connect hobby bird watchers with nature STACEY LAVALLIE WEEKENDER REPORTER The disconnect between people, especially children, concerns biologist Myrna Pearman, who has been the biologist in residence at Ellis Bird Farm for three decades. “We spend our time in front of a tv or computer, playing on tablets and smart phones, and we don’t see or appreciate the nature around us,� Pearman said. She said that without that appreciation, it’s difficult for people to care about preserving nature and keeping it from being overrun by urban sprawl and industry. The farm, which is southeast of Lacombe, features programs yearround, though especially in summer, designed to educate people about birds of all kinds, how to care for them, and how to watch for them. It teaches people about the benefits brought to nature and people about birds, and about the predators they face. The love of nature was born early in Pearman, who said a family friend took her and her siblings under his wing when she was a young child, imparting his love of nature through trips in the woods and lessons that were disguised as fun games.
Ellis, who was in Stettler at Peavey Mart on Sunday, Dec. 6 to sign her new book, grew up with that love of nature remaining a fixture of her person, and ended up going to school and graduating with a degree in biogeology. Her new book, a glossy and beautiful “Backyard Bird Feeding: An Alberta Guide,� was an update and expansion of a book Pearman wrote nearly two-and-a-half decades ago. “I wrote my first edition of the book in 1989,� Pearman said. “It was black and white and only had winter birds. It’s now out of print.� When contemplating whether to republish the book, Pearman eventually decided against it. “It was old and out-ofdate,� she said. And so, she decided to update the old content as well as include birds from all year round, rather than just winter. With today’s technology making it much easier to source photos of Alberta’s winged residents, she also wanted it to be in colour. “We put out a call on Facebook,� she said. “We asked birdwatchers and backyard bird feeders to take photos and share them with us.� When the story was picked up in a local paper, it really took off and Pearman received hun-
Stacey Lavallie/Weekender reporter
Myrna Pearman sits at Peavey Mart, where she met with bird watchers and signed the newest copy of her Backyard Bird Feeding: An Alberta Guide book. dreds of submissions. The final book makes use of photos submitted by more than 60 different photographers and hobbyists who submitted their work for the project. “We’re really grateful for that,� Pearman said. “It means we have a book full of beautiful photographs.� The book talks about
a wide variety of “bird things,� from backyard bird feed types, feeder types, way to discourage opportunists like squirrels, deer and bears, predators, and, of course, birds. Pearman spoke about the Project Feederwatch, which has bird enthusiasts throughout the winter maintaining and ob-
serving bird feeders and making records of what birds come and when. The information is gathered and is an excellent way for youth and adult alike to get involved in what she calls “Community Science.� For $35, participants are sent a research kit with instructions in how
to proceed. In addition to those intructions, it also comes with a poster showing common bird types for aid in identification, and a calendar to mark observations upon. Project Feederwatch is operated by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Bird Studies Canada. continued on page 2
2 THE WEEKENDER
Friday, December 11, 2015
Tax changes and life insurance 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 -
CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY Beef on a bun, snacks A good visit with neighbours & staff Plan to enjoy the day at Stettler Auction Mart Friday, December 18, 2015 -
Life insurance is an attractive tool for estate planning because the proceeds received at death are generally not taxable. If you have, or are planning to purchase life insurance, you should be aware that the tax implications will depend on whether or not it is exempt from taxation of the accumulated income. Policies issued before December 2, 1982 fall under the “old rule” status. These policies are exempt from accrual taxation. Policies issued after December 1, 1982, fall under the “new rules” and may or may not be exempt. To distinguish the exempt or non-exempt status of a policy, an exemption test must be administered by the insurance company on each anniversary date of the policy. A policy is considered exempt if its emphasis is “benefits on death.” Non-exempt policies are those policies that offer a substantial lifetime investment including annuity con-
tracts. Exempt policies must meet current test requirements and must also meet prospective future test requirements on every anniversary. You can obtain information about the tax status of your policy from your insurance company. The exempt status of a policy can change for a variety of reasons and each has different consequences. Exempt policies that don’t meet this exemption test are then granted a 60-day grace period to return the policy to its exempt policy status. In most cases, this requires withdrawing money from the policy. The tax on non-exempt policies must be paid at least every three
‘Estrangement from nature’ concerns biologist continued from front page The data collected through Project Feederwatch helps the lab keep track of migration habits and changes, population increases or decreases, and helps determine if a species is sick or at risk.
Stock Cow & Bred Heifer Sale Tuesday, December 22, 2015 -
LAST SALE OF 2015 Thanks to all! Weekly show alley Cattle Sale, internet, regular ring: We treat “your” livestock as if they were “ours.” Call for details.
HEARTLAND BUSINESS PARK - Hwy #12 - east Stettler NOW SELLING Commercial Properties - Highway Frontage Fully Serviced - The work is done! Smaller lots available. Price incentives to early buyers. Central Alberta’s gateway to the east Call Jim or Greg - 742-2368 for full details!
Mineral — Salt — Corral Panel Sales For all your needs phone 403-742-2368
Stettler Auction Mart (1990) Ltd. Lic. #00354 Auctioneers: Allen McMillan Dick Creasey Greg Johnson Scott Douglas Terry Silbernagel Office Administrator: Lona Benjamin Sales Reps: Greg Hayden - 403-740-9610; Jim Abel - 403-740-9609; Brad Lohr - 780-679-5500
years. Holders of policies acquired after 1989 must pay tax annually. If you’re insured under a non-exempt policy, then upon your death any investment income generated within the policy that has not yet been taxed will be considered taxable income. The proceeds received on death from an exempt policy, including the income earned under this policy, are not taxable. Tax may also be payable if you transfer ownership, relinquish or convert your policy. Dividends and policy loans may also have tax consequences that should be looked at carefully. Exercise extreme care when replacing any pol-
icy, particularly an “oldrule” policy, because the tax outcome may be expensive. The rules and regulations surrounding life insurance policies and taxation change over time. You should talk to your insurance or financial advisor before making any decisions regarding your policy. Members of Advocis have the specialized training essential to help you make the right decisions. There are a host of strategies using life insurance policies that can help defer tax by way of tax sheltering, provide tax-free cash on death to conserve an estate or help equalize an estate. When structured properly, an insurance policy can enhance the amount that can be flowed out to beneficiaries by way of a corporation’s capital dividend account. Take the time to sit down with a trusted life insurance advisor and explore the many benefits that life insurance and related products bring to the table.
Stettler Auction Mart (1990) Ltd.
LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT Friday, December 4 & Tuesday, Dec. 8 TOTAL – 1636
SLAUGHTER CATTLE: D1-D2 Cows: 85.00 to 110.00 D3 Cows: 70.00 to 90.00 Bulls 105.00 to 128.50 Feeder Bulls: NONE Feeder Cows: 105.00 to 115.00 Heiferettes: 125.00 to 135.00 FEEDER CATTLE: Steers Heifers 1000 plus lbs.: 170.00 to 175.00 1000 plus lbs.: 165.00 to 170.00 900 to 1000 lbs.: 170.00 to 180.00 900 to 1000 lbs.: 165.00 to 180.00 800 to 900 lbs.: 185.00 to 204.00 800 to 900 lbs.: NONE 700 to 800 lbs.: 190.00 to 209.50 700 to 800 lbs.: 180.00 to 188.00 600 to 700 lbs.: 200.00 to 222.00 600 to 700 lbs.: 190.00 to 220.00 500 to 600 lbs.: 220.00 to 263.00 500 to 600 lbs.: 210.00 to 234.00 400 to 500 lbs.: 235.00 to 282.00 400 to 500 lbs.: 225.00 to 250.00 300 to 400 lbs.: 250.00 to 295.00 300 to 400 lbs.: 235.00 to 270.00 OFF TYPES: NONE OFF TYPES: NONE Bred Cows: Good - 2000.00 to 2950.00 Medium - 1500.00 to 2000.00 Bred Heifers: 1750.00 to 2850.00
Feederwatch data was instrumental in the creation of a systemic monitoring program of the Painted Bunting in Florida. The volunteers who collected data in the winter showed a steady decrease in the sighting of the bird, and in comination with the Breeding Bird Survey, which revealed a decrease in breeding populations, it was determined that there was, indeed, a problem. “Programs like Feederwatch are important,” Pearman said. “Not only do they help us keep track of bird species and potential problems, it gets people involved again with nature.” One of the things she hopes her book, which is easy to read, full of diagrams and photographs, will do is help people reconnect with nature. The printing of the book was funded in part by Peavey Mart, which has had Pearman doing tours throughout Alberta in November and December, and whose donation has allowed the profits of the book to be donated back to Ellis Bird Farm. Pearman has two more book signings left for anyone who wants a signed copy of the book, one at the Vermillion Peavey Mart on Dec. 12, and one at a Peavey Mart in Red Deer on Dec. 20. For more information, visit www.EllisBirdFarm.ca.
Friday, December 11, 2015
THE WEEKENDER 3
How Albertans can curb holiday spending during a recession FROM CNW Christmas is a time when children hope to see their dreams become reality, families reunite, and friends, neighbours, and coworkers engage in festivities of gift-giving and merrymaking. However, while Christmas brings joy to every heart, it can also bring added financial stress, especially if you don’t know how to budget. Christmas gifts, shopping and related festivities can cost people more than they bet on if they do not partake in the necessary budgeting and planning for a successful holiday season. According to a BMO survey, in 2014 Albertans had planned to spend the most on Christmas holidays, estimating a whopping $1,947. A year ago today, the province of Alberta was booming with career options, homebuyers, and consumer debt. Today we are facing recession, job loss, and still – consumer debt. According to recent Moneris research, Albertan consumer spending is up just 0.30 per cent on a year-over-year basis in the 3rd quarter, which is the smallest increase across Canada. If you have not saved for the upcoming holiday, an excessive amount of spending could cause credit card debt to creep in and cause trouble in the New Year. While most people think a costly Christmas is unavoidable, an affordable holiday is only a plan away. With a proper budget, a stressfree environment is easily achievable, and you will not be haunted by the thought of having
to pay back borrowed money in the New Year. To avoid wasting your wallet when it comes to holiday gifts and festivities, Money Mentors advises Albertans to: 1. Make a list – Whether you are shopping in the malls or online, prioritize what is important and what is not. You also need to consider if all of your listed items can be bought within this set budget. Setting a dollar limit on what you can afford to spend on each person. You may have to ask yourself some tough questions. Is it important to buy presents for all of your relatives? Can you afford it? Are there creative ways for you to give gifts that are still heartfelt, but also economical? Remember, this is your hard-earned money, and as much as you may want to be, you cannot be Santa Claus. Even with a budget, you can still show people that you care. We suggest that you draw names out of a hat or develop other creative Christmas gift ideas to help offset some of the cost. Secret Santa is a fun way to stay within budget, and baked goods are a popular way to show that you are thinking of someone this season without breaking the bank. 2. Festivities (parties and social gatherings) – For social events, you need to know the expected cost, set your budget accordingly, and stick to it. For example, are you hosting or attending an event? Each of these responsibilities comes with a price, so you need to determine how your position will affect your finances and
influence your holiday budget. If you are attending an event, are you contributing food or drinks? Both can add up, so knowing what is expected of you makes it easier to set aside the correct amount of money. Remember, this is your money at work, so spend wisely. 3.Shopping – Giftgiving adds up quickly, making planning essential. Know what you are going to buy before you even enter the store or go online. This makes it easier to stick to your budget. First, define your budget. Be honest with yourself about what you can actually afford. Second, shop around for compet-
itive prices. Some stores promise price-matching or other competitive pricing systems, so take advantage of these. Third and most importantly, stick to your budget! Stay focused on your budget now and you will stay happy with your bank account once the carols have ended. 4. Use Cash – If you do not want the Ghost of Christmas Past to hunt you down in a few months’ time, use cash. Pay in cash whenever you can to curb spending and, if possible, stay away from credit cards. Remember, gift giving does not need to be a competition. You can find or create thoughtful gifts that will delight your family and
friends without spending a fortune. Avoid putting yourself into debt by buying only what you can afford. Using cash is an easy way to remind yourself of what you are spending. Christmas is supposed to be fun, exciting, loving, and centered around creating new memories with close friends and relatives. This season is not supposed to be stressful or put financial strain on you or your re-
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VJV MARKET REPORT
SLAUGHTER CATTLE D1 - D2 cows D3 - D4 cows Good Holstein cows Med. Holstein cows
98.00-116.00 90.00-100.00 87.00-93.00 80.00-87.00
REPLACEMENT CATTLE
Good bred cows NONE Older bred cows NONE Good bred heifers 2000.00-2650.00 Good Feeder Steers 1000 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 900 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 800 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 700 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 600 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 500 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 400 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 300 lbs Plus:
DAIRY & CALVES
403-883-2205 Cell 403-740-9469 New Homes, Renovations, Farm Buildings, Windows, Siding, Shingles, Hardwood and Tiles
l na gio e R
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Phone 403-742-2395 • Fax: 403-742-8050
Money Mentors is the only Alberta-based, notfor-profit credit counselling agency. Through a number of services, it helps families and individuals recover from financial crisis and move forward.
On Wednesday, December 2, 2015 - 3972 head of cattle went through our rings - TOTAL - 3972
STOCKERS AND FEEDERS
Bob Halseth
lationships. These steps will not only give you peace of mind before, during, and after the Christmas season, but they will also help you stay on top of your finances.
Dairy Steers Baby Calves Dairy Type, CAN: Baby Calves Beef Type:
FEED
Hay: Sq Bales Straw: Sq Bales Greenfeed: Sq Bales
6.00-10.50 80.00-145.00 2.00-4.00
Heiferettes Bologna bulls Feeder bulls
135.00-150.00 110.00-125.00 120.00-130.00
Cow/Calf Pairs (younger) Cow/Calf Pairs (older)
NONE 190.00-205.00 205.00-220.00 224.00-231.00 238.00-248.00 275.00-304.00 310.00-325.00 330.00-360.00
Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers
-2650.00 NONE
NONE 180.00-195.00 200.00-209.00 205.00-216.00 210.00-227.00 235.00-250.00 260.00-295.00 270.00-320.00
115.00-130.00 50.00-150.00 -450.00 Rd Bales Rd Bales Rd Bales
NONE NONE NONE
VJV Web site: www.vjvauction.com Canadian Satellite Web site: www.cslauction.com Email: office@vjvauction.com
Sales Every Wednesday
Phone 403-783-5561
4 THE WEEKENDER
Friday, December 11, 2015
Moush Sara John/ Weekender reporter
Ivy Scott, with his four-year-old sister Quinn queue up to meet Santa at the Jewel Theatre at their Santa Day event on Saturday, Dec. 6.
Jewel Theatre hosts Santa Day MOUSH SARA JOHN WEEKENDER REPORTER Jewel Theatre transformed into a festive paradise as kids queued up to meet Santa on Saturday, Dec. 6. Children of all ages were looking forward to meeting Santa in person and name their Christmas wishes for the year. There was also a photo booth set up, conducted by Patti Marsh of Your Design Works, who took
pictures of the kids. Families were given one free print, with options to convert it into Christmas cards or get additional prints. Santa Day was organized at the theatre in the past, but owner Byron Geddes of Jewel Theatre was unable to come up with a plan for it last year. “Between our grand opening and trying to get reopened last year, no one had approached us about doing it and
we were so busy learning how to run smoothly, December quickly passed us by,” said Geddes. “A few months ago, Kurt of Wish Kitchen came in to ask us if we wanted to take it over again, to keep it in the downtown area, and we were thrilled, we love seeing all the kids come to the theatre and enjoy putting on community events.” This year Santa visited the theatre with his sack of treats for the kids,
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Rowdy Jones takes a seat on Santa Claus’ knee during Santa Claus day in Byemoor on Saturday, Dec. 6. The day was full of Christmas-themed activities besides the visit of ol’Saint Nick, with the local 4-H club selling Christmas trees and craft and bake sale tables doing brisk business.
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donated by Sean’s No Frills and Stettler Dodge, and Your Design Works/ Rainbow Photo. With the Shop Stettler contributing too, everyone got to watch ‘Jingle All The Way’ for free after Santa’s visit. “We had well over 80 kids get their pictures taken with Santa, and approximately 150 people totaled out for both showings of the movie,” said Geddes. “Everyone loves pictures with Santa, so there was a
lot of great feedback. Some kids ran right up to Santa with hugs and had long conversations, others took their time, eyeing him up over mom or dad’s shoulder, and eventually got the courage to go close enough for a picture.” The Jewel Theatre plans to keep the Stettler community busy during the Christmas season. “This month, after Creed next week, we will have Love the Coopers on Dec 18-24, which is
a great dysfunctional family Chirstmas film for the first week of no school,” said Geddes. “On The Night Before the Night Before we will have two free admission showings of The Santa Clause at 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., and donations to the Food Bank welcome.” For the rest of Christmas break, Jewel Theatre will show Alvin & The Chipmunks: The Road Chip and The Good Dinosaur.
Friday, December 11, 2015
STETTLER INDEPENDENT 5
An appropriately timed book for kids You know what happens if you’ve been good. You’ve been singing songs about it. You’ve been extra nice around the house because of it, doing your chores without complaint. Maybe you’ve even helped get ready for it by decorating your classroom. Yes, you know what happens soon but, as you’ll see in “The Nutcracker’s Night Before Christmas” by Keith Brockett, illustrated by Joseph Cowman, Santa doesn’t only bring gifts. ‘Twas the night before Christmas, but that’s not all. It was also supposed to be opening night for the town’s annual Nutcracker ballet but, well, there were problems. All day long, everything had been going wrong:
TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER the programs were printed with a great big mistake and they had to be thrown out, stagehands weren’t feeling well and they all went home, spotlights had broken, paint was everywhere, the Prince got caught up in ropes that dangled where they shouldn’t be, and there was more.
The theatre’s cat had shredded the skirts for the little ballerinas, and the girls were all in tears. Parts of the scenery were broken, props were missing, Clara spilled juice on the backdrop, and costumes had lost their sequins. And if that’s not enough, the Christmas tree that stood high for the ballet’s main scene came down with a bang, the ornaments were in smithereens, and the lights wouldn’t blink. The Nutcracker was a mess on that Christmas Eve night! A “sick sense of panic was growing severe” and the director of the ballet was thinking about calling the whole thing off. Everybody was very sad about that. They’d all worked so hard but “It had to be canceled. It couldn’t go
on.” And then, suddenly, from the stage’s fake fireplace, “a surprising and strange thing occurred.” Twinkly ashes came flying from the flue, there was a whoosh of cold air, and a giant laugh could be heard throughout the entire place. The whole stage shook like a bowl full of jelly and you’ll never guess who brought the gift of help… Is there ever a Christmas season that finishes with hundred-percent perfection? And is there a kid alive who doesn’t laugh at slapsticky chaos? No and no - but if you put them together, you’ve got “The Nutcracker’s Night Before Christmas.” Using a familiar theme that children love, author Keith Brockett tells a tale of everything gone awry, and the unlikely hero that saves the night. What’s fun about this book is the utter pandemonium that’s so well portrayed: it follows Murphy’s Law (anything that can go wrong, will) to the letter. Brockett makes the bedlam fit
the rhyme, and illustrations by Joseph Cowman add to the silliness of it all. The ending is appropriately magical and – in the books’ very final pages – curious kids can learn more about Tchaikovsky’s ballet and accompanying terms of theatre and stage. This book is perfect for little ballerinas, for kids who love The Nutcracker, and for children who just want a semi-silly seasonal story. For them, “The Nutcracker’s Night Before Christmas” is pretty good. “The Nutcracker’s Night Before Christmas” by Keith Brockett, illustrat-
ed by Joseph Cowman c.2015, Sleeping Bear Press $15.99 / $16.99 Canada 32 pages
Keith Brockett
Hearing loss doesn’t have an age. Be proactive, and get your hearing tested annually. Due to popular demand we are continuing our
2 for 1 Battery Sale every Wednesday!
Dr. Lisa Lopez With a genuine desire to ensure patient satisfaction and her 20 years of experience, Lisa is happy to be working with patients in Stettler and Area doing her best to have them hearing and communicating with their loved ones.
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We have the expertise in fitting you with the right solution. Call us to book an appointment for you or a loved one 4806 - 51 Avenue, Suite B, Stettler, AB T0C 2L0 • (403) 742-3277 www.heartlandhearing.ca Authorized to provide hearing aid services on behalf of the Workers Compensation Board of Alberta (WCB) as well as other third party payers.
6 THE WEEKENDER
Friday, Decembe 11, 2015
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er
10 miles South of Stettler on Hwy 56 & 2 miles East
Sunday, Dec. 13 Ev
CLASSIFIED N.E. BUY
Starting at 25 words for $53.55
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!
10
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e!
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Restaurant/ Hotel
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
Professionals 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!
Lost
54
$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 early morning hours following the Big Valley Rodeo Dance in Big Valley, AB on May 10, 2015. You may remain anonymous. To claim the reward contact recquel2@gmail.com. Any help is very much appreciated.
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52
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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.
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FUTURE AG INC. owns and operates 4 branches throughout Central Alberta selling and servicing CASE IH Agriculture equipment. We are currently looking for
Agricultural Technicians and/ or Heavy Duty Mechanics
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CLASSIFIEDS 1-877-223-3311
810
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
with Ag experience for our Stettler location. This is a fast-paced environment and ideal candidate would be able to work with minimal supervision, have the ability to take initiative and consistently demonstrate exceptional customer service. FUTURE AG INC. “People You Can Count On”, is offering the opportunity to grow in your career with a thriving company. We offer an exemplary beneÀts package, hourly salary from $27.50 to $30.00, annual work boot reimbursement, RRSP plan, sick days, monthly bonus and continuous professional training in a positive friendly environment. If you have a great attitude and integrity, FUTURE AG 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
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Buy & Sell #1500 - #1990 Aircraft ..............................1510 Antiques & Art ..................1520 Auctions ............................1530 Bicycles ............................1540 Building Supplies ..............1550 Business Machines ..........1560 Cameras & Accessories ..1570 Children’s Items ................1580 Clothing ............................1590 Computers ........................1600 Concert & Event Tickets ..1610 Equipment - Misc. ............1620 Equipment - Heavy ..........1630 Tools ................................1640 Farmers’ Market & Food Basket......................1650 Firewood ..........................1660 Lumber ............................1670 Garden Supplies ..............1680 Lawn Tractors ..................1690 Health, Dietary, Beauty ....1700 Household Appliances......1710 Household Furnishings ....1720 TV’s, Stereos, VCR’s ........1730 Hot Tubs & Accessories ..1740 Jewellery ..........................1750 Kid’s Deals........................1755 Misc. For Sale ..................1760 Musical Instruments..........1770 Music Lessons..................1780 Piano & Organs ................1790 Office Supplies ................1800 Pets & Supplies ................1810 Pet Services ....................1820 Cats ..................................1830 Dogs ................................1840 Sports Cards ....................1850 Sporting Goods ................1860 Collectors’ Items ..............1870 Swap, Barter & Trade ......1880 Travel Packages ..............1900 Wedding Supplies ............1910 Recycled Products............1920 Wanted to Buy ..................1930 Items to Give Away ..........1940
Auctions
1530
BIG STRAPPER AUCTIONS
UPCOMING SALES Wednesdays @ 6 pm.
THE WEEKENDER 7
For Rent #3000 - #3200
Acreages/Farms ..............3010 Houses/Duplexes ............3020 Condos/Townhouses........3030 Manufactured Homes ......3040 Four Plexes/Six Plexes ....3050 Suites ..............................3060 Cottages/Seasonal ..........3070 Roommates Wanted ........3080 Rooms for Rent................3090 Motels/Hotels ..................3100 Offices ..............................3110 Stores/Commercial ..........3120 Industrial ..........................3130 Warehouse Space............3140 Garage Space..................3150 Storage Space ................3160 Land ................................3170 Pasture ............................3180 Mobile Lot ........................3190 Misc. for Rent ..................3200
Wanted to Rent #3250 - #3390
Acreages/Farms ..............3255 Houses/Duplexes ............3260 Suites ..............................3270 Rooms..............................3280 Manufactured Homes ......3290 Housesitting Wanted ........3300 Garage Space..................3310 Storage Space ................3320 Stores/Commercial ..........3330 Office Space ....................3340 Industrial ..........................3350 Warehouse Space............3360 Resorts & Cottages..........3370 Pasture/Land....................3380 Mobile Lot ........................3390
Houses/ Duplexes
at The Moose Hall, 2 miles south of Ponoka on Hwy. 2A ~~~~~ TO BOOK YOUR SALE CALL 403-782-5693 Check website for full listings www.bigstrapperauctions.net
Firewood
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FIREWOOD, PINE & BIRCH 4.5 kms. West of Stettler Call 403-323-0744 LOGS Semi loads of pine, spruce, tamarack, poplar, birch. Price depends on location of delivery. Lil Mule Logging 403-318-4346
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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
Dec. 2, 9, & 16
Suites
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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 LARGE 2 BEDROOM overlooking Alix Lake, 1 1/2 bath, oak cupboards, vaulted ceiling, wood Àreplace, washer/ dryer usage, garage access, $1050/mo. utils. incl’d, plus dd. Avail. asap. 403-304-0146
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The average Canadian homeowner has $175,000 in mortgage debt From CNW More than a third (38 percent) of Canadian homeowners feel that housing in their area is unaffordable, according to a new survey released by Manulife Bank of Canada. According to the bi-annual survey, 28 per cent of respondents found their local housing market “somewhat unaffordable”, while another 11 per cent described it as “not affordable at all.” Just over half (51 per cent) called housing in their area “somewhat affordable” and only one in ten felt housing in their area was “very affordable.” Perception of affordability varies by region, as homeowners in Canada’s Atlantic provinces are most likely (83 per cent) to feel housing is affordable, while those in British Columbia are least likely (39 per cent). The survey also revealed that those in Canada’s largest urban areas (Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, and Montreal) are much less likely to describe their housing market as affordable (46 per cent) than those elsewhere in Canada (68 per cent). Perceived lack of housing affordability was most acute in Vancouver, where just one in three (33 per cent) indicated housing was affordable. Housing costs may be
putting pressure on other aspects of homeowners’ finances. While almost three quarters (73 per cent) of homeowners believe they’re somewhat or completely prepared to deal with an unexpected household expense such as a major car repair or a furnace replacement, other results suggest this may not be the case. For example, more than one in three homeowners (38 per cent) were “caught short” at least once in the past year - where they didn’t have enough money in their bank accounts to cover expenses. While some of those caught short were able to access a line of credit (33 per cent) or rainy-day savings (23 per cent), others had to carry a balance on a high-interest credit card (32 per cent) or even borrow money from a family member (14 per cent). Nearly four in ten homeowners didn’t have enough money in the bank to cover household expenses at least once in the past year “The challenge faced by many Canadians is that their income is relatively stable from month-tomonth, but their expenses can vary significantly,” said Rick Lunny, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Bank of Canada. “Access to rainy day savings or a low-cost line of credit are good
options to safeguard against these fluctuations. However, if your backup plan is to carry high-interest credit card debt or borrow from a family member - you could be putting undue stress on your finances or relationships.” The size of many Canadians’ rainy-day accounts also suggests that they may be less prepared than they believe. Fewer than one in four (24 per cent) homeowners has more than $5,000 set aside for an emergency, and half indicate they either have “$1,000 or less”, or don’t know how much they have for emergencies. “While it’s always a good idea to have some cash savings available for emergencies, it doesn’t necessarily make sense to have a large emergency fund if you also have debt,” said Lunny. “In some cases you’d be better off using some of that money to pay down your debt and have a low-cost line of credit available for larger unexpected expenses.” While homeowners who work with a financial advisor (56 per cent) have the same median household income ($85,000) as those who don’t (44 per cent), those with an advisor appear to be in better financial shape on a few fronts. They’re less likely to have increased their debt in the past year (17 per cent vs. 22 per cent of those with
no advisor), more likely to feel somewhat or very prepared for an unexpected expense (80 per cent vs. 65 per cent) and have more “rainy day savings” (median of $4,500 vs. $2,000). Housing prices to increase? The survey also found that almost two in three (63 per cent) homeowners expect housing prices in their area to increase next year while fewer than one in 10 (7 per cent) expects them to decrease - although this finding varies significantly by region. In Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, almost one in five (19 per cent) expect prices to decline in the next 12 months, while just 3 per cent of homeowners in Ontario, 4 percent in British Columbia and 4 per cent in Quebec expect price declines in the next year. Nationally, about seven in 10 (71 per cent) of Canadian homeowners between ages 20 and 59 have a mortgage, and report an average of $175,000 of mortgage debt. Regionally, Alberta ($238,000) and British Columbia ($228,000) reported the highest average mortgage debt, while Ontario ($167,000), Manitoba/ Saskatchewan ($151,000), Atlantic Canada ($151,000) and Quebec ($141,000) reported much lower levels of mortgage debt.
8 THE WEEKENDER
Friday, December 11, 2015
Lots of interest in Christmas craft workshop STACEY LAVALLIE WEEKENDER REPORTER Some 20 community crafters gathered at the Stettler library on Friday night, gathering for the second annual Christmas Centrepiece and Grinch Tree workshop. The Dec. 4 event was hosted by the library and featured centrepiece specialist Kirsten Nugent, who came in from Bashaw to teach the crafters and help them design the perfect Christmas centrepiece and the Grinch Tree. The Grinch Tree is designed to look similar to the tree in the Grinch Who Stole Christmas cartoon feature, and features a narrow conifer tree that is bent at the top, folding under the weight of a Christmas tree ornament. Mary Zazelenchuk, manager of the Stettler Public Library, said the event went off without any Grinch-like hitches, with everyone laughing and having a good bunch of fun. “I think word got out this year so we had more people register,” she said. This was but one of the holiday events happening in the coming weeks, as Christmas draws closer. For this Wednesday and the next, starting at 4 p.m., kids can come take part in Crafts til Christmas. On this Friday, Dec. 11, Holiday Horror will see a pack of horror flicks screened at the library. And on Saturday, Dec. 12, Craftapalooza takes place, starting with a dance production at 1 p.m. and crafting at 2 p.m. And, right before Christmas, on Dec. 21, there will be a gingerbread house workshop at the library.
Debbie Doell/Independent staff
The eponymous Grinch Tree.
Christmas Advertising g Deadlines al ion Reg
S INDEPENDENT THE
TETTLER
Readers and advertisers are advised of the Independent’s Christmas and New Year’s deadlines and publication schedule: Debbie Doell/Independent staff
Crafters cheerfully work on creating their Christmas Centrepieces at the Christmas Centrepiece and Grinch Tree workshop at the Stettler Public Library on Friday, Dec. 4.
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Dec. 23 edition Advertising deadline: Thursday, Dec. 17, 5 p.m. Dec. 30 edition Advertising deadline: Wednesday, Dec. 23, 5 p.m. The Independent office will be closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Please note Weekender deadlines are the same as Stettler Independent.
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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year