Shootin' the Breeze – Dec. 23, 2015

FREE PUBLICATION

A weekly breath of fresh air!

December 23, 2015 Year 5, Issue 15

Making spirits bright May the season bring you as much joy and wonder as Odin Erik finds in his first Christmas.

Photo by Jaiden Panchyshyn

Happy

Holidays

From the Girls at Ruffles!

Ruffles Boutique 803 Main St. Pincher Creek 403-627-4640

THE BRICK’S FAMOUS

David Tetachuk Owner

Roberta Mercer Sales Associate

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

PINCHER CREEK

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 403-627-3717 RANCHLAND MALL

Boxing Day Blowout!

Doors Open at 8 a.m. on Dec. 26

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Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

Community rallies for cancer patient

By Brad Quarin There could be a time when any of us might find ourselves in a crisis or in a desperate situation.

Fortunately, those in Pincher Creek and area can reach out to Angels Within Us, a community foundation that assists community members at such times. One of the cases that touched co-founder and president Sherry Mackenzie the most this year was that of Nikki Gross.

“She’s a neat little young lady,” says Sherry, who was impressed by Nikki’s “outlook and her optimism.”

In August, Nikki, who works at the Pincher Creek Health Centre, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.

Family, friends and co-workers rallied around her before Angels Within Us arrived on the scene. Sandy Breckenridge, Nikki’s supervisor, says the staff was moved to help her as she is a friend and they love her.

Nikki, 23, is originally from Swift Current and arrived in Pincher Creek in 2012 to complete her practicum. After returning to Saskatchewan for a time, she secured a full-time job as a lab and X-ray tech in Pincher Creek.

Sandy describes her as energetic, funny, quirky and easygoing, yet focused in her work.

“We’re all pretty close,” Nikki says. “They’re my mentors, and my

co-workers, and also my friends.” She describes Sandy as her “second mom.”

Last December, Nikki began to feel tired and ill. She experienced rapid heartbeat and, in June, needed a blood transfusion.

Her white blood cell count skyrocketed and wasn’t coming down, something that pointed to a serious illness. In July, an X-ray in Calgary found a mass in her chest.

“Of course, they started freaking out,” she says.

It was a scary experience for her too, as she knew there was a problem, but not what it was. With her medical background, she was able to speculate on the illness.

It “definitely gets your mind racing,” she says. She recalls that, while on an ambulance ride, she tried to think back to her education on different cancers.

When the specific diagnosis finally came, it was a bit of a relief to know the disease and that it could be treated.

Nikki feels she has good doctors and, because of her medical background, can talk “on a different level” to her hematologist.

She receives a number of treatments including chemotherapy, which See NIKKI GROSS, continued on page 3

Providence

HOLIDAY HOURS Open Dec. 24 9 a.m. to 12:30 pm Dec. 25 – Closed Dec. 28 – Closed Open Dec. 31 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Jan 1 – Closed

Salon & Spa

Merry Christmas to All! Thank you for your support in 2015.

Wishing everyone the best in the New Year!

Pincher License & Registry 403-627-2642

HOLIDAY HOURS:

Thurs., Dec. 24 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Fri., Dec. 25 – Closed Sat., Dec. 26 – Closed Thurs., Dec. 31 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Fri., Jan. 1 – Closed Sat., Jan. 2 – Closed

REGULAR HOURS: Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closed Sunday

403-627-5756 1373 A Hunter Street Pincher Creek

Refresh Your Mind, Body and Spirit Check out our amazing selection of services, Christmas treats and stocking stuffers!

403-627-5667 673 Main Street Pincher Creek

Merry Christmas to all!

Merry Christmas

and all the best in the new year!

Thank you for your patronage in 2015. From the staff and management at Rona

403-627-4000 871 Elk Avenue Pincher Creek

Thank you for your support in 2015.

Wishing everyone the best in the New Year!

LYLE REIMER

403-627-5991

PINCHER CREEK

BOBCAT SERVICE LTD.

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December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 3

Maynard Arden Cornish April 16, 1954 – December 18, 2012

It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone.

For part of us went with you, the day God called you home.

Our family chain is broken, and nothing feels the same.

But as we’re called, one by one, the chain will link again.

Lovingly remembered by your wife MaryAnne, Brad, Jac, and family, Jeff, Kris and family, Candace Rae

In memory of Mary Bottolfs Nov. 19, 1933 - Dec. 22, 1996

NIKKI GROSS, continued from page 2 Photo by Brad Quarin

Nikki Gross has put up her decorations and looks forward to celebrating Christmas. She is receiving cancer treatments with financial and practical help from family and friends, co-workers and Angels Within Us.

has resulted in hair loss, and which may reduce her chances of having children.

“That kind of hits you,” she says.

Besides medical concerns, other stresses have surfaced. She has mortgage payments to meet on her Pincher Creek house, student debt and truck payments. She can’t work until next spring, which is hard enough, given that her career is her identity.

Her co-workers, whom she describes as her “work family,” pitched in, taking care of the house. They organized a big housecleaning before her first round of chemo, as patients receiving chemo can be vulnerable to germs.

One co-worker collected inspirational thoughts for her, and some have donated to help with the student debt and vehicle payments. They also visit the house regularly, chatting with her mom, Nancy, who has been staying with her since June.

Sandy says the staff have made sure that Nikki keeps up to date on office happenings, and include her in potlucks and the Christmas dinner.

“She’s still part of the team,” Sandy says.

Concurrently, her friends back in Saskatchewan held a dinner to raise money for her, and one friend did a painting for her.

Eventually, Sandy contacted Angels Within Us about Nikki’s situation. Nikki met Sherry Mackenzie and another Angels member while undergoing a blood transfusion, and they explained what they do.

“It made me feel like I was really a part of the community,” Nikki says. “It reaffirmed my feeling — this is where I should be.”

Angels Within Us visited the bank and made arrangements to cover a few payments on her mortgage. They also gave her gift cards for groceries and gas.

“I’m so grateful for that,” she says, and thanks all of the organization’s supporters.

While her medical treatments continue, Nikki has maintained an optimistic and confident attitude.

“I’m fortunate that Hodgkin’s is a very treatable cancer,” she says. “I’ve been very fortunate that I have such a great support group: all my friends at work, my friends at home, back in Saskatchewan, and my family.”

What would we give her hand to clasp, Her patient face to see.

To hear her voice, to see her smile, As in the days it used to be.

But some sweet day we’ll meet again Beyond the toil and strife, And clasp each other’s hand once more, In Heaven, that happy life.

Miss you, Mom and Grandma Sher Westoby and family

Thank You

On behalf of the Ames and Fraser families, on the passing of Kathy Ames, I would like to send a sincere thank you to everyone who sent flowers, food, cards, phone calls and donations to Crohn’s and Colitis.

A special thank you to Dennis Novak and Eden’s Funeral Home for all their help and guidance in this difficult time, and to the Legion for the use of the hall and for supplying the lunch – very much appreciated.

To Jeremy, Jodi Kristie, my sister Donna and my dear mom Charlotte, thank you for your help.

I am truly blessed to have such a loving family and to be part of a caring community.

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Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

Chamber member recognized for community spirit

By Brad Quarin booth.

With Christmas fast approaching, Dawn Her business also regularly hosts chamRigby at Country Encounters is busily caterber meetings and luncheons. In fact, Dawn ing to functions and parties. received her Community Spirit Award at She still made time to serve food at Country Encounters.

Blairmore’s Gazebo Park during Christmas in This Coleman business is supportive of the Mountains. Her catering and accommovarious community groups, often donatdation business, Country Encounters, also ing the use of plates, china, cutlery and continues to help community groups with tablecloths for their functions. Country in-kind donations.

Encounters did this for the Harvest of MemFor regularly going the extra mile, Dawn ories even before Dawn joined the Crowsnest received this year’s Community Spirit Award Historical Society board. from the Crowsnest Pass Chamber of ComShe became involved in that group merce. because of the location her business — in “Country Encounters has been known to the oldest commercial building in Coleman be generous with their donations, normally National Historic Site. She adds that she has in kind,” Dawn says. “I really didn’t think it a taste for antiques. was much of a big deal, but apparently they She often handles the group’s marketing Photo by Brad Quarin think it is.” and organizing.

Dawn Rigby accepts the Community Sprirt Award from chamber presiIn her work for the chamber, Dawn has As if that weren’t enough to keep her dent Brian Gallant at the Crowsnest Pass Chamber of Commerce annual served as treasurer for five years. However, hands full, Country Encounters is now general meeting last month. because board members are limited to three launching a new aspect of the business, consecutive terms, this is her last year. Before becoming treasurer, she was a Encounters Suites. The new building will offer extra-large suites and has space director at large, “doing whatever it was that they needed done,” she says. for a restaurant.

As a prudent business owner, Dawn knew Country Encounters could afford The exterior needs more work and the owners hope to get the restaurant either a housekeeper or an accountant. She chose a housekeeper. Acting as her open by the end of February. own bookkeeper gave her the experience to become chamber treasurer.

The public response to the restaurant, Encounters Wine Bar and Small For Christmas in the Mountains, Dawn made lots of phone calls to coPlates Kitchen, has been positive, and Dawn says drawing up the menu is the ordinate events, and, in addition, lent hotdog-making equipment for Christmas fun part of restaurant work for her. in the Park.

All things considered, her proudest achievement is having raised “three She did all this even though Christmas is a busy time for Country Encounbright, beautiful daughters.” And, in her career, she is proud of starting from ters. Whle there is an economic downturn, the same number of Christmas scratch, turning a Coleman hardware store into a home for Country Encounparties are being held, says Dawn. They are just on a smaller scale. ters.

At other times of the year, Dawn is busy with the chamber’s Lifestyle Show In the past 10 years, she says, her catering business has gone from “nothing” Alberta’s Affordable Family Ski Area — organizing, answering questions, setting up and filling in at the chamber to serving more than 80,000 meals a year.

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December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

We, at Robin & Co. Chartered Accountant, would like to take this opportunity to express sincere thanks to our friends and clients in Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass, Medicine Hat and surrounding areas.

Your patronage is greatly appreciated both now and throughout the year.

We look forward to serving you again in 2016.

Merry Christmas from Dennis, Barb, Leslie, Shelly, Janet, Tiare, Julia, Nicole, Jenn and Tammy Pincher Creek Office Open Weekdays 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

403-627-3313 697 Main Street Pincher Creek

R

obin & Co. Chartered Accountant

Dennis Robin, B.Mgt., CA, CPA (IL, USA)

dennis@robinco.ca

1-800-207-8584

Crowsnest Pass Office Open Weekdays 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

403-562-2895 2022 127 Street Blairmore

Page 5

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Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

My Little Corner

An editorial by Shannon (Robison) Robin

Welcome to our Christmas issue!

Shootin’ the Breeze readers were invited to submit greetings, stories and memories that I’m sure you will enjoy.

One class from each elementary school, and leadership groups from the high schools, were invited to share Christmas letters, artwork and greetings, and we thank all who contributed during such a busy time in the school year.

It’s been heartwarming to watch our communities come together in many thoughtful ways to support those having a difficult time this year.

On Sunday afternoon I popped in to snap a photo of the Christmas hamper packing in Pincher Creek. What hustle and bustle! There must have been 75 people packing boxes, wrapping gifts, writing cards and singing along to the carols playing in the background. It was fantastic to see all ages working together to do good.

Christmas isn’t a happy time for everyone.

Loss is felt keenly at this time of year. Financial stress is a little bit more painful, and not everyone is fortunate to be surrounded by a multitude of family and friends. Memories take centre stage — good, bad, happy and sad.

Many are looking for ways to make their holidays more meaningful, and Christmas is becoming less about excess.

I wish we could carry the excitement and the spirit of this season all year long.

I’ve already received a sweet gift — my daughter came home last week. Jaiden is attending her first year of university in Saskatoon and we’ve had only one short visit since the end of August. It’s been a new chapter in my journey as a parent.

The joy I’ve felt the past week makes my heart sing. It’s simply from having her nearby and knowing that my girl is happy with her life’s adventure.

I’m sorry that she is here during my busiest work week of the year, and grateful that she understands.

As we make the long trek to my parents’ home this week, it will be with new insight on my part. It’s always been important to me to go home, but I haven’t really considered how meaningful each return might be to my mom and dad.

My gift to them, and to myself, is to ensure that our family is together for Christmas. How lucky I am, to be able to make that happen.

May this holiday season bring you love, laughter and peace as you gather with family and friends.

If you are alone, know that you live in a supportive community filled with people willing to extend sharing and caring. Do not be afraid to accept a hand extended to you.

May you find comfort, strength and hope in your personal beliefs. There are many definitions of faith — only you know which is right for you.

If you are dealing with difficulty or sadness, may you find quiet time for reflection on troubles, balanced with memories of happy times, and come away with a smile.

May you see excitement in the eyes of children and let this raise your spirits and fill you with joy.

May you see those who are struggling with a heart filled with compassion, understanding and goodwill.

May you have a most wonderful Christmas.

Share your stories and news ideas! Positive submissions, letters to the editor and photos are always welcome.

Submit to news@shootinthebreeze.ca Editorial deadline is Thursday at 4 p.m.

www.shootinthebreeze.ca Shootin’ the Breeze is available digitally 24/7 Daily story posts, submitted sports scores, photos, weather warnings and more!

Dear Jimmy, You’re the most caring, brilliant, funny and beautiful person I’ve ever met. You’re my sweetheart, my lobster, my joy ... my everything. You’ve rocked my whole world, you’ve turned my life upside down and I’ve loved every moment of it — even the hard ones.

Merry second Christmas together, my love!

My only wish is that I can spend all of them with you, for always.

Love, Jane Wishing you and yours a very blessed Christmas season and a new year filled with joy, peace and good health.

Frieda Bruns

A positive voice in southern Alberta sharing personal and business success and community events.

Small Business Award of Excellence winner in 2013

Scan the QR code with your smartphone to link directly to our website.

Check it out!

Editorial

Red Rock Canyon. Renovations. Star Creek Falls. Motorcycle rides. Fernie. Mountain biking. Banana pancakes. Roof shingling. Tomato harvesting. Rhubarb crumble. Pierogi. Chris’ Restaurant burgers. Pure Country wings.

Artwork. Artisan Fair. The Baileys. Dr. Who. Death in Paradise dancing. We’ve enjoyed all of this together — let’s continue.

Merry Christmas. xx

Shannon (Robison) Robin, Publisher – Design, Writing, and Photography Cary Robison – Editing, Printing, Accounting, Tech Brenda Shenton – Administrative Assistance, Calendar of Events and Photography Brad Quarin – Writing and Photography Jessica Jensen – Pincher Creek Advertising Sales Erin Fairhurst – Crowsnest Pass Ad Sales, Writing and Photography Lois Johnston – Editing Gary Andrews – Crowsnest Pass Distribution Lily and Stan Skahl – Pincher Creek Distribution

Office hours 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Advertising

Display ads, obituaries, personal ads, business directory ads and national ads are accepted for print.

Web options include website ads and the Breeze business directory.

Submit to ads@shootinthebreeze.ca Advertising deadline is Thursday at 4 p.m.

Printing

We offer a full line of commercial and personal printing services. Please contact us for details.

697A Main Street | Box 811, Pincher Creek, AB T0K 1W0

2,200 copies of Shootin’ the Breeze are distributed every Wednesday to over 110 locations in Crowsnest Pass, MD and Town of Pincher Creek and Piikani Nation

PROUD TO BE LOCALLY OWNED AND LOCALLY STAFFED! www.shootinthebreeze.ca 403-904-2227 info@shootinthebreeze.ca

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December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 7

Merry Christmas From Our Families to Yours Holiday Hours

’Tis the season for song Pincher Creek’s 55th annual carol festival was a well-received musical opening to the Christmas season.

James Skierka delighted audience members with his violin accompaniment, and Annemarie Neudorf Photos by Brenda Shenton of the Crowsnest Community Choir filled the air with song.

Happy Holidays from Dr. Baker and staff at Creekside Dental Clinic!

The clinic will be closed from Dec. 24 to Jan. 3 and will reopen Jan. 4 at 8 a.m.

403-627-4900

1035 Hewetson Avenue

Pincher Creek

Dec. 24 – 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Dec. 25 – Closed Dec. 28 – Closed Dec. 31 – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Jan. 1 – Closed

Home Auto Tel: 403-627-4211 Toll Free: 1-888-218-0063

Page 8

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

Christmas wishes from Canyon kindergarten In kindergarten at Canyon School, we talked about how we can make the world a happy, healthy place to live at Christmas and always. Here are our ideas: I can share.

I can learn how to make stories for people who don’t have enough Christmas stories.

I can help old people get ready for Christmas — help them get their Christmas tree up.

I can give our pets food so they can live longer.

I can set up the table for a big feast for cousins, friends and family.

We can build wagons for people who don’t have cars who live far away, so they can go places and visit people.

We can give animals water.

We can keep water clean for fish, whales, dolphins, crabs and for people and our pets. We won’t drop garbage in the water.

I can decorate the Christmas tree and ask my big brother to make a wish for you.

We can pour water in the plants to help them grow. It makes the world a better place because the plants give you air. So … more plants — more air!

We can share food with other people who don’t have enough food.

I can throw the starfish back in the water and then it will come alive.

Monday and Wednesday kindergarten: Kim, Johnlee, Leigh, Denley, Jared, Nathan, Paige, Lucy, Hunter, Phillip, Christian, Adam, Sasha, Logan, Henry We can use our words and share toys.

I wish that Syria would stop fighting.

I can play with my sister.

I can water my plants in my garden and help them grow.

I can help at the gas station, print my name and clean messy things.

I can feed my goldfish.

I can help Dad and find things for Dad. I can sweep up at home.

We can grow trees because they make more oxygen.

I can do what’s right.

We can bring food to school for families who don’t have enough food.

I can play with my kitty and feed him — make sure he has a warm place to sleep.

We can clean up garbage, containers and wrappers outside.

We can grow food for people who don’t have enough food.

Tuesday and Thursday kindergarten: Tristan, Danielle, Daelan, Carsen, Daiwik, Jane, Will, Cayden, Logan, Caden, Isabella, Brooklyn, Ryder, Daisy, Emily, Jillian, Kenna

Merry Christmas to all my clients and friends!

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Dec. 24 at 7 p.m.

Roy Denby Accounting Services

All Welcome!

Trinity Lutheran Church

403-627-5228 Ranchland Mall, Unit #12 1300 Hewetson Ave. Pincher Creek

893 east ave. pincher Creek

Season’s Greetings from Dr. Greg Steed, Dr. Mark Leishman and staff 403-627-3290 1-800-663-5041 www.ascentdental.ca 978 Kettles St. Pincher Creek

Even Santa has a fender bender once in a while!

Don’t let car trouble get you down, Fix Auto will get you back on the road

Happy Holidays from the staff at Fix Auto!

403-627-1800

pinchercreek@fixauto.com

1071 Kettles Street

Pincher Creek

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December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 9

Piikani Grade 3 students share letters to Santa Dear Santa, How is it in the North Pole? Merry Christmas Santa and Mrs. Claus. Santa can you bring me a dog and can you bring me a doll and can you bring me a bike. I am going to leave you milk and cookies.

From Miami

Dear Santa, I like the elf that you got us. We named her Snowflake and she likes her name. How is Mrs. Claus and how are you? I want an iPod, guitar, a doll and different toy. I have been good and Merry Christmas Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elf.

From Harmony, and I love you Santa, Mrs. Claus and Snowflake

Dear Santa, I want to know how you are. Thanks for the elf. The class likes her. She’s funny. If I have been good this year can you get me more permanent markers, a mic, cookies, Zoomer kitty and heelies, PS4, PS3, and money$.

Merry Christmas.

From Nicole

Dear Santa, How is it in the North Pole this Christmas? I’ve been good this year. For Christmas, I wish for an iPad case and computer. I really want a makeup kit and $100 iTunes card, a hamster, new dress boots, Minecraft for my x-box, hair dye, a helmet and wheels, a Zoomer kitty, GTA 5 for xbox 360 and money$$$$$$$$$. Merry Christmas Santa.

From Kalia

Dear Santa, Hohoho. Merry Christmas. I want a doll house. I want a Zoomer kitty. I want pyjamas and slippers.

From Savannah

Dear Santa, How are you doing? Thanks for the Elf, our class named her Snowflake.

How is Mrs. Claus doing? How are your Elves doing? My Christmas wish list is: Pink hair dye, Zoomer Kitty, Terraria game, Minecraft game and wheelie runners. Thanks for all you do.

From Grace

Dear Santa, Ho Ho Ho! I want zoom kitty. I want a tablet too.

Makyia See LETTERS TO SANTA, continued on page 10

Phone Cases 10-20% Off

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Dr. Bart Anderson and Dr. Laura Chisholm

Pincher Creek Eye Clinic 403-627-2930 761 Main Street Pincher Creek

The Phone Lady

Dec. 24 Only!

Weboost Otterbox Lifeproof

Beats Xqisit Fitbit

Merry Christmas!

403-904-0025 403-627-6913

723 Main St. Pincher Creek

We would like to thank the community for “SUPPORTING LOCAL CREATIVITY” and making the Creative Market another huge success!

Thanks to all who were involved!

Happy holidays and all the best in 2016 from the CM team at FunkedUP Distribution

We wish everyone the joy of the Christmas Season and a Happy New Year.

Thank you to all our customers and business associates of this past year.

Merry Christmas! from all of us at

Trucking Ltd.

Page 10

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

LETTERS TO SANTA, continued from page 9 Dear Santa, How are you and Mrs. Claus? Our elf Snowflake is so nice. I want tablet, a bike, a Zoomer pet, an Xbox, a Monopoly game, a helmet and skates, a baby dog, a Zoomer kitty, Zoomer puppy and a makeup kit and when you come I will leave you milk and cookies. Merry Christmas!

From Chantel Dear Santa, How are you and Mrs. Claus? We named our elf Snowflake. And I want this for Christmas if you could get it for me. I want a doll, a sled, a Zoomer kitty, a 100 ITunes card, a make-up kit, candy in my stocking, helmet and skates, an elf, a baby kitty, a Xbox 1, a my life doll, a surprise, and 100000 money.

There is going to be milk and cookies for you. Merry Christmas.

From Lexia Dear Santa, How was I doing did I be nice and good? And how is Mrs. Claus and how are you doing? Could I get an Elf on the shelf, an Xbox Live card, a beanbag.

I really want a puppy, make up kit and a monster high doll.

Merry Christmas from Hadley Dear Santa, How are things at the North Pole this Christmas? I would like Charizard and the Jurassic World toys. I am going to leave you chocolate cookies and milk. Merry Christmas to you and Mrs. Claus!

From Olivia Dear Santa, Hohoho. Merry Christmas! I want a Monster High, and a Zoomer kitty, Barbie rock and roll and little charmers and princess unicorn. How is Mrs. Claus? I have been good please bring me a present.

From Sunshine

We are OPEN Boxing Day and New Year’s Day

Happy Holidays from the staff and management at

Open 7 Days A Week!

Thank You for your support over the past year!

The sales don’t stop!

Check out our KIDS ZONE for great deals on kids and youth gear!

403-627-2227 797 Main Street Pincher Creek

403-627-4456 1075 Waterton Avenue Pincher Creek

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

December 16, 2015

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train crosses the trestle near Brocket, en route to Pincher Creek and Crowsnest Pass.

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 11

Photo by Brenda Shenton

Passengers take scenic ride aboard the Holiday Train

By Brad Quarin One thing that can be said about journalism is that you get the chance to see and be involved in some exciting things.

Last week, the CP Holiday Train rode through our area in support of the Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek food banks. To the delight of spectators, it stopped in Pincher Station and Coleman for mini concerts. After the stop in Pincher Creek, a few lucky people — including me — stepped on board for the ride to Crowsnest Pass.

Carrying passengers on the Canadian Pacific Railway is largely confined to Canadian history, a rare happening today. Naturally, for me and a few other young passengers, it was a novel experience.

“This was my first time,” said Lachlan Stauffer, a Pincher Creek boy who got to make this trip with his brother Coulson and, at the same time, enjoy hot chocolate, Christmas music and colouring.

“I didn’t know that we were coming on,” Coulson said.

Since it was a big surprise for him, he wasn’t sure what to expect. He said his family previously rode a train at Fort Steele, but it wasn’t as big as the Holiday Train.

Their mom, Michel, was the highest bidder for the rail tickets at the Angels Within Us dinner and dance. The money raised went to the Junction food bank.

Congratulations to our Colouring Contest Winners!

Entries came from Pincher Creek and Crowsnest Pass, ages four to 92! Thanks to all who entered.

Winners were chosen by random draw and each received a $25 gift card.

Children: Leland Yellow Horn and Diane Gross Adults: Glennis McMullen and Sherry Belanger

“It’s very exciting. We’re very pleased to be here and pleased to support the Pincher Creek food bank,” she said.

The Zeller family, who are from Calgary but camp in the area frequently, commented that this gave them a new perspective.

It was indeed a different view than from the highway. As I watched the landscape unfold around me, with forests, trees and boulders just outside my window, I thought of what it must have been like for Sir John A. Macdonald. He rode on the railway he had built on his first trip west of Ontario in 1886. He and his wife watched in awe as they were drawn into Western Canada.

But the Holiday Train was more than just a ride. The stops in Pincher Station and Coleman not only attracted a big turnout but also yielded huge support for the local food banks.

During the shows, Canadian Pacific Railway presented the Crowsnest Pass and Junction food banks with cheques for $4,000 each.

This was on top of the 842 pounds of food collected from the crowd in Coleman, says Desiree Simoneau, Crowsnest Pass Food Bank co-ordinator.

At Pincher Station, the Junction food bank collected 1,500 pounds of food.

CP was not the only one to write cheques for the food banks. Dennis Robin

HigH Country Western Wear WisHes you a Merry CHristMas!

• • • • • •

Jeans Shirts Dresses Hats Boots Accessories

403-627-5686 Ranchland Mall #33 - 1300 Hewetson Ave. Pincher Creek

See HOLIDAY TRAIN, continued on page 12

Thank You from Ken Roome A thousand thanks to everyone that sent cards, letters, prayers, Timmies and baking. To all those that offered and gave rides to appointments during my recovery. To my in-laws Claudia, Vilma and Frank, to the owner and staff of Pharmasave for their generosity and support for Santina through all of this as well as all her friends. To the First Responders and Mrs. Nastasi at the Crowsnest Pass Health Centre. A thousand thanks to STARS — please continue to support this amazing service. Thanks to the at least 40 doctors at Foothills who got me going and kept me going. Glad I don’t remember any of this work. To the RNs and NAs on Floor 10 and especially Floor 6 at Foothills. To Derek and Skippy for the sweet ride home. To the nursing staff in the Pass who showed me I could do more than I thought I could. To Dr. Muscat, and John and all the rest of you who are still caring for me. Special thanks to my nephew Kelly and Sherry and family for hosting my wife, Santina, for nearly a month in their home. Thank you to our son Cordell for his strength at the right times. Finally, to Santina: Told you a million ways how I love you, but I’m a million short. Thanks for going through this right beside me.

Merry Christmas and all the best in 2016!

Page 12

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

HOLIDAY TRAIN, continued from page 11

Merry Christmas to you and yours, from all of us at

Shootin’ the Breeze!

Holiday Office Hours: Office is closed for Christmas Wednesday, Dec. 23 Thursday, Dec. 24 Friday, Dec. 25

Photos by Brad Quarin

In the top photo, brothers Coulson, left, and Lachlan Stauffer enjoy hot chocolate and colouring while riding the CP Holiday Train between Pincher Station and Coleman.

Below, Celia Clinton and her daughter Marley take in the festivities at Pincher Station. presented $250 to each food bank on behalf of Robin & Co. and Shootin’ the Breeze.

Owna Scott and Albert Morning Bull from the Napi Friendship Centre brought $500 from their funds to go to Pincher Creek Christmas hampers, and Walmart also made a donation.

Crowsnest Pass raised $6,186.62 and Pincher Creek brought in $9,048, including the CP donations.

Hopefully, this will replenish the supplies in our food banks so they can provide families in Crowsnest Pass, Pincher Creek and area with ample food to make their Christmas merry.

See HOLIDAY TRAIN, continued on page 13

Office reopens Monday, Dec. 28

Office is closed Friday, Jan. 1

Office Hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Monday to Friday Closed for lunch from 12 to 1 p.m.

Advertising and Editorial Deadline for Jan. 6 Issue is Wednesday, Dec. 30 at 4 p.m.

403-904-2227 info@shootinthebreeze.ca 697A Main Street Pincher Creek

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 13

HOLIDAY TRAIN,

continued from page 12

The CP Holiday Train was a hit in Pincher Creek and Crowsnest Pass. At left is Ryder Oczkowski collecting food bank donations. Above, clockwise from top left, are Andrew Zeller and his mom, Traci; Evelette Crook and her aunt Lisa Schoenberger; Grayson Bellerose and his mom, Desiree Simoneau; Hillary Syryca and her mom, Lydia Opetrich-Syryca; and sisters Emily, centre, and Hailey Burke with Santa Claus.

Photos by Brad Quarin

Give the gift of FUN!

CRUISIN’ THE CASTLE ENJOY YOUR 1ST, 4TH, 7TH VISITS FREE SAVE $20 OFF ALL OTHER VISITS

Starting at only $74.95

Page 14

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

The boy and the neighbour Submitted by Muriel J. Shepherd Bryan paused and leaned on the handle of the snow shovel. He had reached their property line and looking across the snow-plugged sidewalk in front of the house next door, to the neatly cleared area beyond, he realized no one was going to do this stretch. Not being particularly tired, he raised the shovel and threw himself into the job. As the drift gradually gave way to the concrete walk below, the 12-year-old was lost in his own thoughts.

Might as well be shovelling, he had nothing else to do. It was Saturday morning in a new place; in two weeks here he hadn’t made a close friend yet. Most of the kids at school seemed to think he was stuck up because they had come to this small town from the city.

His dad and mom had bought a little business and it had changed his life. Not only moving here from his familiar surroundings, but Dad had explained that all the family finances were tied up in the business. He would not even get his allowance for a few months until the cash flow improved. Rats! It was just over a month until Christmas and he had no money. He knew exactly what he wanted to buy for his dad and something pretty for mom, but he couldn’t do it without money.

Maybe the old lady who lived in this house would pay him something when the walk was all done. He’d shovel a path to her door after he cleared across the front, and he threw the snow with renewed interest. He had seen the old lady who lived alone there, carrying trash to her backyard, one hand grasping a cane to assist her.

The cane was the same kind his own Gram had used before she died last spring. Dear Gram, I miss you, he thought. She always seemed to know when he was blue and to have time to listen and offer a diversion.

Now he was through the last of the drift and, turning back, he opened the gate to the old lady’s yard and began to clear her walk. He was almost to the house when the side door opened and she appeared.

“Do you like hot chocolate?” she asked. “I have a cup of it ready if you do.”

“Thanks,” Bryan said. “Just as soon as I finish this.”

She looked so pleased that Bryan decided to

shovel on past the side step and out to the trash barrel. Sitting in Mrs. Dawson’s cozy kitchen a few minutes later, Bryan happily sipped the hot chocolate. She’d put marshmallow on top just like his grandmother used to do. What was she saying?

“Did I hear your folks call you Bryan? That was my son’s name, too.” Her blue eyes glistened as she went on, “He was our only child and he was killed in the war.”

Afraid she was going to cry, Bryan tried to change the subject. “I’m an only kid and sometimes it’s neat.”

“I wish I could pay you something for doing my walks, Bryan, but my pension hardly covers my needs. I’m sorry.”

“That’s OK,” Bryan answered, as his hopes of a regular job fell. “Lots of guys my age work out to build muscle so I’ll do this to build mine.

Good chocolate.”

For over an hour the boy and the old woman talked of the new business, of making friends at school, of her dead husband and various trips they had taken, even of the homework project he had to do. She had been a teacher and had lots of good ideas. Then Bryan left, but not before he carried the trash out to the barrel and got a box of bird seed out of the garden shed for her.

Over the following two weeks, Bryan made regular calls on his new friend and, at his urging, his mother brought Mrs. Dawson’s mail to her from the post office when she went for theirs.

Virginia Dawson only looked like an old lady because she had difficulty walking. She had a happy outlook on life. Bryan guessed you’d say she was young at heart.

One day she said, “I probably should move into a lodge and sell this house, but what would I do with all these things?” It was true, she had so many trinkets and such like they had collected.

Suddenly Bryan thought of the flea market to be held in the community hall next Saturday.

“Why don’t you bring out anything you can spare and I’ll help you pack them into boxes and see if they go at the pre-Christmas flea market?”

“Good idea, Bryan. We could use the money, but they will be heavy and I have no car anymore.”

“Oh, Mom will take us to the hall and maybe Dad will even have time to help us set up a

table,” Bryan replied.

“Let’s get started,” she said.

All day the boy and the woman sorted, dusted and packed various things to offer for sale. When Bryan noticed a delicately etched silver music box that played “Sweet Sue,” he said, “That’s my mom’s name, Sue.” Mrs. Dawson replied, “Then set it aside and it will be yours to give your mother for Christmas.

Some toffee in coloured wraps would look nice in it.”

Bryan thought, She is like Gram. There’s an answer to my problems.

By the time Saturday evening arrived, Bryan was tired but happy. Of all the many things Mrs. Dawson had taken to the flea market, nearly every one had sold. One small box easily held the leftovers and, as he carried it from the car, Bryan noticed it had started to snow. Taking Mrs. Dawson’s arm to help her into the house, he said, “Looks like I’ll be over in the morning to shovel.”

“Wonderful,” she said as she patted his cheek.

“Do you know something? The money I made today will let me pay you for shovelling now and all the rest of the winter too, and even lawn work when summer comes. The club is going to have a spring flea market and by then I’ll have had time to sort through a lot of the things in the basement and attic.

“Oh, Bryan, here’s your share of today’s sales.

Please take it, you earned every cent. What a different holiday this is going to be from what I had imagined! Bless you, son. You made me believe in Santa Claus again.”

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 15

Letters to Santa from St. Michael’s Grade 4 class Dear Santa, How are you? This is Maddix. I think I have been a good boy this year.

Thank you for the Simon Swipe last year, I always play with it. How are Mrs. Claus and the elves? This year for Christmas, may I please have a Summit? I will have your cookies, your milk and the reindeer’s carrots prepared for you. Have a Merry Christmas.

From Maddix Dear Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hi Santa, this is Kate talking to you.

I need to thank you for all of the toys that you have to me. You’re a kind Santa. How are your reindeer? I hope you are drinking good and eating good? I hope you get a good snack and get a good ride to Pincher Creek.

I moved to a different house and it is by mountains. I live on a farm and you will see a new horse when you come by. My new horse’s name is Tiny and he is not tiny, he is huge. How are the

elves? How is Mrs. Claus doing? Can I please have an ipad mini for Christmas?

I love you Santa, Katelyn Dear Santa Claus, How are you and Mrs. Claus? How do you put presents under every single tree? How are the elfs are they working hard for Christmas? My name is Malakah L. I live in Pincher Creek Alberta. My interests are football, basketball and skating. Christmas means spending time with family and love. I would like a little thing for Christmas and it is a mermaid tail to swim in.

Merry Christmas.

Your friend, Malakah Dear Santa Clause, how was summer vacation? I have a question did you send that elf-on-theshelf to my house? Or did he just come over to my house? My friends have

Wishing all of my clients and their families a Merry Christmas and all the best in 2016.

Merry Christmas

Thank you for your patronage this year, I appreciate it. ~ Tamara ~

from the staff at Cougar Ridge Computer Systems

403-627-2922

Pincher Creek

how are you and Mrs. Clause? Have you ever considered basball? It is quite fun. are you Christian? Jesus is important to me. Please if you could, could I have a lego motor?

Your friend, Jasper P.S. Do not try the chimney there is a fireplace under it. thanks in advanced.

Dear Santa, Are the elves ok? Christmas is for spending time with your family friends and Jesus all I want is some decorated tape.

From Presley

Dear Santa Claus, How are the elfs doings? My name is Braiden I live in Pincher Creek. I like playing soccer. to me, Chrismas means when Jesus was born. I want a PS4 and minecraft please. it is all I want. Thank you.

Your friend, Braiden

Dear Santa, I am a good boy. I want minion lego for Christmas.

Drayton Dear Santa, Hi Santa are you lonely up in the old north pole? You could move to Meighan iseland Nunavut. So anywase

Shear Envy Salon 403-563-3689 12307 - 20 Avenue Blairmore

Dear Santa, How are you? Did you have a nice summer? My name is Peter. I like

See LETTERS TO SANTA, continued on page 16

We wish you joy and happiness this Christmas!

Darryl, Judi, and the gang at Shadowbar Shepherds Elite canine training and boarding

May a ‘good’ shepherd watch over you

JADCO SALES LTD.

Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closed 12:30 to 1 p.m.

Ranchland Mall

on too but theirs look more plastiky than myne. Anyways, hockey is really fun this year we won some games and we lost some. Practices are really fun cause we do fun drills and little scrimiges. Also we started decorating for Christmas and I would like sk8 for xbox 360 for Christmas, thank you!

From Eric

Wishing You a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!

Merry Christmas!

403-627-5552 1072 Main St. Pincher Creek

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

December 23, 2015

LETTERS TO SANTA, continued from page 15

sports like swimming and kayaking and canoeing. To me Christmas means thinking about others and about presents. I have a small request. I would like that snap circits super deluxe rover.

See you at Christmas, Peter Dear Santa, Hello Santa I live by the rodio and I was good all month and Christmas is a very awesome day because thats when Jesus is born. Thats when you get to spend time with your family, friends, cosins, even Jesus.

Love, Cloe Dear Santa Claus, How are the elves doing? How are you doing? My names is Ethan I live across from canyon School. I love baseball and I like tv. Christmas is about Jesus’s birth. What I would like for Christmas this year, is a white remot control race

car! Thank you for all the gifts you me all the past years.

Ethan Dear Santa, How are you! My name is Lane. I live in Pincher Creek in the country on a Ranch I like to drive the gater. I wont bouts. Thank you.

From Lane to Santa Dear Santa Claus, How are you doing? How is Mrs. Claus doing? How are you Reindeer?

I live near the little Red school house.

I love sewing, playing in the snow and riding on the snowmobile. I love xmas because you get to spend time with your family and 2015 years ago it was Jesus was birth. I hope to see you soon.

Sarah Merry Christmas. How are your elves?

I hope you come to my house! I hope you get me presents.

From Jonas

Merry Christmas!

Pincher Creek Veterinary Clinic From Dr. Charlie, Dr. Kari, Colleen, Linda, Rhonda, Jocelyn, Tianna and Faith Pincher Creek

you? How old are you? How are the reindeer? For cristmas I would like a charge cord for my iPad. Your friend, Garrett Dear Santa Claus, Greetings from Canada! I am Megan and I live in the M.D. of Pincher Creek. What are the names of your reindeer? How many reindeer do you have? What is your favorite Christmas carol? Are you Catholic? How old are you? Is there such a thing as a list for the people between Naughty or Nice?

How many kids are on the Naughty list? Are there Bruders in Africa?

What list am I on? Naughty or Nice?

Santa, if you have room in your sace, could I have something for Jenna my Maple doll?

With Christmas spirit, and many questions, Megan

Dear Santa, Greeting to you and your reindeer.

I am Corbin I live in the country. I like books, video games, and tablets.

Christmas means to gather with family and the birth of Jesus’s birth.

From Corbin Dear Santa Claus, How are your Reindeer doing? How’s Mrs. Claus doing? I am Alison.

My interests are skating and Judo.

Christmas means to me is baby Jesus.

May you please bring me a swimsuit mermaid tail.

A.r.a.p.

Dear Santa, What kind of cookies do you like.

My name is Garrett and I live in Pincher creek alberta canada. How are

See LETTERS TO SANTA, continued on page 17

Holiday Greetings

To you, from the staff at

1124 Waterton Ave.

Dear Santa, My name is Nathan I live in Pincher Creek, Alberta. This year I would like a minecraft lego set. How are you doing?

Bye, Nathan

403-627-3900

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season shared with family and friends.

May the New Year, 2016, be filled with Peace, Joy and Blessings!

From the Residents, Staff, Management and Board of

From the management and staff at the Crowsnest/Pincher Creek Landfill Association

2015-2016 Holiday Season Schedule Dec. 24 – 8 a.m. to Noon Dec. 25, 26, 27 – Closed Dec. 31– 8 a.m. to Noon Jan. 1 & 2 – Closed

Winter Hours

Shootin’ the Breeze

Holiday Hours

Page 16

Monday to Friday – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closed Sundays

PINCHER CREEK FOUNDATION

and Crestview Lodge

www.crowsnestpincherlandfill.com

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

Seasonal artwork by ISS Grade 5 students Isabelle Sellon School students shared works of art rather than letters to Santa this year.

Clockwise, from top right, are creations by Marin, Matty and Katie. Turn the page to see paintings by more students.

December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Holiday Hours at LED In Action Closing at 12 noon on Thursday, Dec. 24 Reopening on Monday, Jan. 4, 2016

LED in Action and staff wish you all a Merry Christmas!

403-627-1686 1178 Bighorn Avenue Pincher Creek

LETTERS TO SANTA, continued from page 16 Dear Santa, How are you and Mrs. Claus? How are the elves. Am I good? Am I on the Naughty List? May I have presents?

From Ryder Dear Santa, Is it really snowy up at the North Pole?

What do the elves do when they are not working Christmas Eve. Thank you for my game last year. I really like it. I wish you a merry Christmas.

From Doc Dear Santa, merry Christmas. How are your elves?

How are you? Is it hard fliying around the world? How do you not fall asleep?

How is Mrs. Claus?

From Andrew Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! Is it hard flying around the World? Do you get sugar

rushes from all the cookies? How is Mrs. Claus? You are fun and speedy.

How are your elves?

From Jordan

1100 Waterton Avenue Pincher Creek

1-888-209-3648 www.westcastlegm.com

Dear Santa, my mom caught you when she was little. How are your elves? Do you like pop and popcorn? How are you and how are your reindeer? I hope you get me presents. Merry Chistmas!

From Jillian Dear Santa, How are your elves? How are you?

Are you like a ninja? Do you get sugar rushes?

Love, Tobias Dear Santa, Merry Christmas. How are your elves?

How are you? Is it hard flying around the houses?

From Jamal

Page 17

The volunteers and staff at Heritage Acres Museum wish you a wonderful holiday season!

Page 18

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

ISS CHRISTMAS ART,

Wishing Doug Cox, family and staff a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

continued from page 17

Thanks Doug for all your electrical expertise in getting Flumerfelt Park decorated for the holiday season.

Couldn’t have done it Doug, without you and your staff!

Foothills Real Estate Ltd. CINDY SINNOTT

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!

Cindy Sinnott Serving Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and Surrounding Area

Call Cox Electric for all your electrical needs.

Merry Christmas from the Village of Cowley!

Call Direct: 403-627-1935 Cell Phone: 403-627-0290 Toll Free: 1-855-627-1935

697A Main Street

Pincher Creek

Home is where the heart is.

Row by row, from top left, these paintings are by Austin, Claudia, Cordelia, Edison, Ember, Emily and Shane.

Merry Christmas!

Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

From all of us at Beaver Mines General Store 403-627-4878 www.beaverminesstore.ca

Highway 507

Beaver Mines

Merry Christmas from Dr. Gorner and Staff!

Our office is closed Dec. 23 to 28, open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 31, and closed Jan. 1

for emergency eyecare please call 403-627-7333

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 19

The Memory of Christmas Submitted by LaRue Ritchie Gather round me children A story I will tell About this holiday season This Joyous Noel – The children aren’t at fault When sometimes they forget That Christmas isn’t just presents And Jolly Old St. Nick – It’s not just holly and mistletoe And Rudolph, isn’t he funny – Or to see who gets the biggest gift Or spends the most money!

The Christmas tree is part of it All shiny, and aglow – So are the Wisemen Three To the stable they did go – The Holy Star of Bethlehem Led them to the place To Joseph and Mary They went, with grace.

There in the manger A wondrous sight they saw Joseph, and Mother Mary And baby Jesus, in the straw.

A halo did surround them, The Wisemen knelt in awe They didn’t understand The glorious sight they saw They didn’t understand Why the King of man Was born in a stable And not an inn, so grand.

The angels hovered round As their gifts they did give – They sang of the coming of a King So that man might live!

So in this world’s fast pace Don’t forget to pray To Jesus Christ, our Lord, A most Happy Birthday!

Photo submitted by Denice Rainford

Christmas at St. Michael’s School

Grade 1 students of St. Michael’s School prepare to exercise their vocal cords at the Christmas Carol Sing-Along concert earlier this month. From left, Boston, Tristan, Alexander, Mackenzy, Ardyn, William, Kaylee, Carter and Cordelia join their classmates in the festivities.

The birds’ Christmas tree A children’s story submitted

by Muriel Shepherd Deep in the forest in a large grove of trees, the kind that stay evergreen, grew the littlest fir tree.

He had a carefree life. The rains showered him, the sun dried him and the many birds were his playmates.

Early one winter morning, a small truck came into the clearing by the grove and a man and two children got out. The man carried a chainsaw and at once began to cut down this tree and that. The little fir tree watched as another of his brothers was tossed onto the load on the truck.

Then the man said to the two children, who were standing by the little fir tree, “OK kids, seven trees will be enough. Now we’ll get that little one for the birds.”

He put the saw into the truck and brought out a sack and a shovel, which he began using to dig around the little tree. Soon he could feel his roots losing their firm grip on the earth, and then the man said, “Now help me lift it up and put it into the sack.”

The little fir tree felt the rough burlap sack being pulled up around

the ball of dirt over his roots before he was placed up onto the truck with the others. Then the truck began to move and they bounced away over the forest trail.

All the trees were talking excitedly about where they were off to, and the little one heard words like ornaments, coloured lights and tinsel. “What’s tinsel?” he asked the tree next to him.

“Doesn’t matter to you what it is,” the bigger one replied. “We are each going into someone’s house to be their Christmas tree, but you aren’t. You are going back into the ground someplace because you are too small to be a Christmas tree.”

The others heard this and agreed and began to jeer at him — “Oh yes, too small, much too small.

For the birds, you’re just for the birds.”

The little tree asked no more questions but he thought, “I’m not so small. I’m taller than both those children,” and he wondered where they were going and why.

Before long they came to a village. Six times the truck stopped and the man took down another of the trees and tossed it onto someone’s lawn, and then they went on.

When the truck had just two trees left in it, they turned into a large yard beside a pleasant white house, where the man and the children left the truck. Taking the cut tree, all three of them went into the house and the little tree was left outside alone.

But he wasn’t alone for long.

Soon they were back and now a kind-faced woman was with them.

They lifted him down from the truck and carried him across the yard to set him into a cozy round hole, much like the one in the forest he had come out of. They shovelled in soil and stamped it down firmly.

“Well, that was certainly much better,” he thought. If he wasn’t going to be a Christmas tree, at least he was back in the ground as he was used to being. But he couldn’t help wondering why they had brought him all the way from his forest and hills just to put him back into the ground. Still, he was comfortable, so stretching his limbs several times toward the night sky See CHRISTMAS TREE, continued on page 20

Page 20

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

12 Days of Christmas Submitted by Don Riva A few years ago, I had my Sunday school class do a skit on how people go overboard at Christmas. I based this skit on the carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me, a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the second day of Christmas my true love gave to me, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the third day of Christmas my true love gave to me, three apple pies, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the fourth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, four cornish hens, three apple pies, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the fifth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, five golden buns, four cornish hens, three apple pies, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the sixth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, six lemon pies, five golden buns, four cornish hens, three apple pies, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the seventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me, seven watermelons, six lemon pies, five golden buns, four cornish hens, three apple pies, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the eighth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, eight fish a-frying, seven watermelons, six lemon pies, five golden buns, four cornish hens, three apple pies, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the ninth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, nine chickens cooking, eight fish a-frying, seven watermelons, six lemon pies, five golden buns, four cornish hens, three apple pies, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the tenth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, ten tossing salads, nine chickens cooking, eight fish a-frying, seven watermelons, six lemon pies, five golden buns, four cornish hens, three apple pies, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the eleventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me, eleven sausage bangers, ten tossing salads, nine chickens cooking, eight fish a-frying, seven watermelons, six lemon pies, five golden buns, four cornish hens, three apple pies, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, twelve Pepto Bismols, eleven sausage bangers, ten tossing salads, nine chickens cooking, eight fish a-frying, seven watermelons, six lemon pies, five golden buns — oh I don’t feel so good — four cornish hens, three apple pies, two sirloin steaks and a deep-dish pizza pie.

Jesus is the reason for the season.

CHRISTMAS TREE, continued from page 19 where the same stars still twinkled, he drifted off to sleep.

Bright sunlight across the yard, the happy voices of the children and the barking of a saucy white dog woke him suddenly. The woman and the two children were carrying a box, which they set down by him. Out of it they brought long strings of lovely white popcorn, which they hung around his branches in pretty loops.

Then they took out more long ropes, but these were of bright-red cranberries and they were hung round about his branches too.

Next came little foil cups filled with bacon dripping and half walnut shells heaped up with peanut butter and seeds, and then chunks of apple

threaded onto stings. All of these were carefully tied onto the little tree’s branches before the mother and children stood back to admire what they had done.

“Oh, it’s quite lovely!” the little girl exclaimed, and the boy added, “I’m sure it will please the birds. Now they will have a Christmas celebration too.”

So he really was for the birds, the little tree thought, and he soon would be seeing some of them. What did tinsel and coloured lights matter when one could expect a visit from old friends? Christmas, a time for sharing what one has with family and friends — what a wonderful time for everyone.

The gift of love, The gift of peace, and The gift of happiness.

May these be yours At Christmas

It’s been a pleasure to serve you this past year!

Ames’ Insurance 403-627-3022 726 Main Street Pincher Creek

403-627-5475 1014 Hewetson Avenue Pincher Creek

On behalf of the employees at Shell Waterton Complex, we’d like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

Peter Argument, Operations Manager

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Page 21

Holiday wishes from CCHS leadership students Santa, this year, I have a more serious wish … I’d like to see our “online” generation, look up from their devices and take in the world; going outside, adventuring, exploring, creating, setting out to achieve ambitious goals.

Santa, if our generation could stop seeking likes and shares, and simply #appreciate what is around them. If you could spark some aspiration for the youth of today to be a positive force in the world. Or simply change the way we see and judge those around us.

One more thing Santa: Cheers, Anna My Christmas wish to the world: Christmas is a magical time of year. The very air shimmers with the effulgent radiance that only the joy of the collective masses can bring.

It is almost as though the air and mood brought by the mere presence of the Christmas season is tailored to counteract the glum and gloom weather persisting outside of each and every

person’s doors.

This very feeling embodies the meaning of Christmas as a holiday and why it is so utterly significant to so many people. My wish to the world is for all, including those less fortunate than those of us lucky enough to experience the wonders of Christmas, and those who celebrate different holidays, to be given that same sense of wonderment and euphoric sense of joy.

Of course, Christmas is a time of giving, so I ask the world as a collective to take themselves from the buzzing whirlwind of deadlines and business that encompasses our everyday lives and our society as a whole and to take some time to really appreciate those closest to you.

Make someone smile.

Actually, we can all do more than that. If we bring joy to everyone and anyone, and if every living soul does the same, then not only will everyone around you be happy and positive, but you’ll be too. I’m not going to say something cheesy like I want world peace, but this is definitely the most efficient way to achieve that

403-627-2242 1130 Macleod Street Pincher Creek

Dear Santa, I really want this year’s Christmas to be the most fantastic Christmas yet! There is really only one thing that I want, and it would probably put this year over the top. It is pretty huge, but if it works, it will probably upstage The Beatles!

I want gummy bears to rain from the sky. I know that it isn’t very logical or physically possible, but you are the man with flying reindeer so I am pretty sure you could manage. It will probably be very bad for the environment and possibly disastrous to the world, but I think we could manage one day of delicious gummy bear rain.

It would make all of my dreams come true and I think the world would probably be at peace, even if it is just for one day. Please just consider it. Thank you so much.

Gummy Bear Lover

Merry Christmas

Peace on Earth Will come to stay, When we live Christmas Every day.

All of the staff at Avalanche Contracting want to with everyone a Blessed Christmas and a Happy Holiday!

seemingly impossible goal.

Ethan

from

HIA

Hedderick Insurance Agencies Ltd.

The team at Hedderick Insurance wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday!

Merry Christmas from Rocky Mountain Mechanical

403-627-3566

403-628-2682

LUNDBRECK

1-866-444-3566

info@hedderickinsurance.com 737 Main Street Pincher Creek www.hedderickinsurance.com

Merry Christmas from the staff at

Rocky Mountain Yamaha 403-627-2127

1022 Main Street Pincher Creek

403-627-4864 Pincher Creek www.snodgrassfuneralhomes.com

Page 22 Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

COFFEE BREAK Courtesy of Fix Auto

Pincher Creek and Fort Macleod

Gift Certificates Available

Give a gift of car detailing or house door painting this Christmas!

403-627-1800 1071 Kettles Street Pincher Creek

party responsibly, don’t drink and drive

403-553-3636 603 12th Street Fort Macleod

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

New Year’s Eve Party

Thursday, Dec. 31 Pincher Creek Legion Doors Open at 7:30 p.m.

Music by Randy Poirier Party Favours, Champagne, Lunch and Snacks Ride Home Service

Photo by Brenda Shenton

Canyon Christmas concert Riley Potts plays a xylophone part in a well-attended festive presentation at his school last week. Waiting for their cue are Annie Van Leeuwen, left, and Jenna Rouleau. See more concert photos online this week at www.shootinthebreeze.ca.

Photos by Brad Quarin

Holiday cheer at York Creek Lodge

At left, Marion Gibos dressed in holiday style to join her mom, Helen Gibos, at the Happy Holidays Christmas Party last week at York Creek Lodge in Blairmore. At right, Tyson Warren was dressed in style for the occasion as well, for a visit with his grandma Joanne Warren.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Pincher Creek Legion Branch 43!

December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 23

Wishing everyone the best of the holiday season.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Duane, Jane Ann and staff Drop by the office for a calendar!

Reimer Construction Ltd. Residential & Commercial 403-563-3666 Coleman

Thank You!

Dr. Chris Holloday and Dr. Bryan Burrows and all of the staff at Crowsnest Dental wish to thank everyone who attended our Grand Opening on Dec. 4 It was our pleasure to present our brand new, state-of-the-art facility to our community.

Thank you to the Boys and Girls Club who carolled for the event, and congratulations to our lucky winners of the TV (Laura Gilbert) and Christmas wreaths (Dylan Cleverly, Ryan Price, Brian Duff and Tara-Lynn Reynolds).

on behalf of all of us at

Crowsnest Dental,

have a safe anD happy holiDay season!

we are CloseD DeC. 24 & 25

open 8 a.m. til noon on DeC. 31

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE: 403-327-7227

403-562-2236

2132 - 129 Street Blairmore Abledentalgroup.com

A Proud Member of Able Dental Group

Page 24

Shootin’ the Breeze

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

December 23, 2015

Mission accomplished for Operation Christmas Stocking

By Brad Quarin Santa’s helpers were busy at the Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek health centres last week, sewing and stuffing stockings for patients over the holidays.

Operation Christmas Stocking was co-ordinated by Alberta Health Services and sponsored by Windy Slopes Health Foundation and the Crowsnest Pass Hospital Auxiliary.

The money donated by the two community groups was used to purchase goods for the stockings, says Megan deBoer, AHS volunteer co-ordinator. This includes crossword books, pens, combs, toothbrushes, shampoos and chocolates, as well as Christmas

cards from local students.

Children will receive colouring books and Slinky toys.

In Crowsnest Pass, the auxiliary filled 86 stockings, while in Pincher Creek, volunteers filled 31.

At the Crowsnest Pass Health Centre, the stockings will be given to long-term care and acute care patients and to five children.

In Pincher Creek, the stockings are for any patients in the hospital during Christmastime, including up to six children.

Patients will go to sleep on Christmas Eve and awaken Christmas morning to filled stockings, courtesy of the nursing staff, Megan says.

Photos by Brad Quarin

Bev Barr, left, and Beryl Zoratti stuff stockings for Operation Christmas Stocking.

These gifts will go to patients at Pincher Creek Health Centre.

Pincher creek Pool Schedule

Like us on Facebook for upcoming programs and special events!

Jan. 4 to May 1, 2016 – Subject to Change Without Notice

Daily Drop-In Admission Shower/Hot Tub $2.00

6 - 8 a.m.

8 - 9 a.m.

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

LANE SWIM,HOT TUB AQUAFIT

CLOSED

LANE SWIM, HOT TUB DEEP WATER AQUAFIT

CLOSED

LANE SWIM, HOT TUB AQUAFIT

0 - 3 Years Free

9 - 11 a.m.

4 - 6 Years $3.00

11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

BOOT CAMP, LANE SWIM, HOT TUB, PARENT ‘N’ TOT

7 - 17 Years $4.25

12 - 1 p.m.

LANE SWIM, HOT TUB, PARENT ‘N’ TOT

Adult (18+) $5.75

1 - 3 p.m.

Senior (55+) $4.75

3 - 4 p.m.

SENIOR AQUAFIT 3:00 - 3:45

LANE SWIM, THERAPY, PARENT ‘N’ TOT

Family (Max 7) $13.50

4 - 5 p.m.

5 - 6 p.m.

LESSONS, OPEN SWIM 4 - 5

OPEN SWIM, HOT TUB MASTERS

6 - 7 p.m.

JLC

OPEN SWIM

Aquafit $6.00 Senior Aquafit $5.00 Masters $6.00

7 - 8 p.m.

Phone: 403-627-2565 Schedule Hotline: 403-627-4062 www.pinchercreek.ca 895 Main Street Pincher Creek

SCHOOL PROGRAMS

RENTAL AVAILABLE

AQUAFIT, HOT TUB, PARENT ‘N’ TOT

LANE SWIM PARENT ‘N’ TOT LANE SWIM, HOT TUB, HOT TUB PARENT ‘N’ TOT HOME SCHOOL SCHOOL PROGRAMS

LANE SWIM, HOT TUB, FAMILY SWIM

SENIOR AQUAFIT 3:00 - 3:45 LESSONS KAYAKING

AQUAFIT, HOT TUB, PARENT ‘N’ TOT BOOT CAMP, LANE SWIM, PARENT ‘N’ TOT, HOT TUB

LANE SWIM PARENT ‘N’ TOT HOT TUB OPEN SWIM, HOT TUB

LANE SWIM, THERAPY, PARENT ‘N’ TOT

SENIOR AQUAFIT 3:00 - 3:45

OPEN SWIM, HOT TUB MASTERS

LESSONS

BOOT CAMP & STROKE IMPROVEMENT CLASS

OPEN SWIM

KAYAKING

LANE SWIM, HOT TUB, FAMILY SWIM

TOONIE OPEN SWIM HOT TUB RENTAL AVAILABLE

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

CALL OUR SCHEDULE HOTLINE 403-627-4062 RENTAL AVAILABLE LANE SWIM, HOT TUB, PARENT ‘N’ TOT OPEN SWIM, HOT TUB RENTAL AVAILABLE SAT. ONLY – OPEN SWIM 5 - 7

EASTER PARTY!

MARCH 24 – 6 TO 8 P.M. Games! Toys! Prizes!

Regular Admission

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Page 25

Shootin’ the Breeze Business Directory

See your ad here for as little as $13.60 per week. For information, call 403-904-2227 or email ads@shootinthebreeze.ca

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL GOODS AND SERVICES

Cathy Kolesar 403-421-0216 403-627-4193

Seniors’ Discount Available

Stoneworks & Eavestroughing 403-627-7313 Pincher Creek highcountry@toughcountry.net

info@avalanchecontracting.com 1130 McLeod Street Pincher Creek, AB www.avalanchecontracting.com

“Our Reputation is Building!”

403-627-2242 1-855-627-2242

“Your junk is our treasure”

• • • • • • •

23, 12 yard roll-off bins 6, 4, 3, 2 yard dumpsters Bear-proof dumpsters Porta-potty rentals Security fencing rentals Septic services Hotshot/picker crane service

CALL NOW FOR GARBAGE REMOVAL • Commercial • Residential • Industrial

Aztec Cabinets

Sonny’s Lock & Key

Juan & Suzanne Teran

Specializing in residential and commercial lock and key service in Pincher Creek and area.

Renovations • Custom Cabinetry & Closets • Commercial • Furniture

403-627-2226 Pincher Creek www.azteccabinets.com

The Bin Bandit

Waste disposal, renovations and acreage/farm bins.

For easy, convenient, waste removal!

Call Jennifer or Tom 403-627-8133

Trucking Ltd. Lucas Sorge

Shop: 403-627-4361 Cell: 403-627-7615 lucas@sorgetrucking.ca www.sorgetrucking.ca

P.O. Box 684 | 1176 Big Horn Avenue | Pincher Creek, AB T0K 1W0

5” continuous EavEs, soffit, fascia, cladding

403-904-0676 403-632-7154 jpwalsh@shaw.ca Pat Walsh Pincher Creek

403-627-5756

Formerly Seabound Eavestroughing

• Steel Sales • Fabrication • Repair • Portable • Drill Stem Sales Range Road 6-0

www.hilltopmanufacturing.com 403-627-1885 lorne@hilltopmanufacturing.com

Blairmore Precision Machining & Welding Ltd. COMMERCIAL – INDUSTRIAL – RESIDENTIAL

403-562-2884 3630 - 18th Ave. – Coleman, AB www.blairmoreprecision.com

Sentinel Industrial Park

Kimberly Hurst

Rocky Mountain Taxidermy

403-628-2069

Bessie Desjardins 403-628-3977 121 Osler Street, Cowley

hurstfamily05@me.com www.kimberlyhurst.scentsy.ca

Sand, gravel, landscaping rock, grader, dozer, skidsteer work

• Residential • Commercial • Farm • Cell Phone Boosters • Maintenance • Generators: GENERAC & KOHLER

SPECIALTY SERVICES AND INDEPENDENT CONSULTANTS Independent Consultant

VEHICLE LOCKOUTS & MASTER KEYING

Pat’s EavEstroughing

Ph: 403-627-3585 Cell: 403-627-8844

info@southwestwaste.ca www.southwestwaste.ca

403-339-0133 403-627-4292

Local Classified Ad Rates $10 plus GST (per week) includes up to 25 words. Additional words are 15 cents each.

Classified ads must be paid prior to insertion. Email office@shootinthebreeze.ca or call 403-904-2227.

Electrical Supplies Sales Counter

1373A Hunter Street Pincher Creek www.ritelineelectric.com

Book your directory ad today!

Contact Jessica at 403-904-2227 ads@shootinthebreeze.ca

NEED A LIFT?

Care Bears can provide transportation to medical appointments in Pincher Creek, Lethbridge and Calgary.

Call 403-339-CARE

Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Mystery Party Night Host a murder mystery party your friends will never forget!

Murder Mystery Party Kits Made locally and sold locally at Crockets Trading Company www.mysterypartynight.com

Page 26

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Richard (Dick) Waywood

Devoted husband, loving father, brother, grandfather, and friend to many; Richard passed on Dec. 15, 2015, in Lethbridge.

Richard was born in Winnipeg, the son of Francis and Joseph Waywood.

Early during Richard’s life, he graduated from Saint Paul’s College, Manitoba, and found employment with Atomic Energy of Canada. Pursuing better opportunities, Richard relocated his family to Pincher Creek in 1975.

Richard worked as a plant operator at the Shell Waterton Complex and was recognized among his colleagues as an outspoken, passionate employee for his fellow brothers. He was an active participant within union Local 835 and within years rose to the challenge of president for 25 years.

Shortly after his retirement from Shell Canada in 2001, Richard started a successful catering business. Alongside his catering duties he was very active within the local Canadian Legion, where he became president.

In 1969, Richard made his best decision when he married the love of his life, Linda Maitland. They had a wonderful marriage of 46 years. He had two sons and three grandchildren, all of whom brought him joy and are his most important legacy.

Dad, as he was known to his family, was kind, thoughtful, engaging and fun. He lived a life of purpose, loved his family and was loved by them.

Richard is lovingly remembered by his loving wife, Linda; his sons, Richard (Heather) and Ryan; and his three grandchildren, Nicholas, Melissa and Madison. He was predeceased by his parents, Francis, Joseph and stepfather August Zaluski, and by numerous aunts and uncles.

Prayer vigil was held on Dec. 18, and funeral mass was celebrated on Dec. 19, 2015, with Rev. Silvano Vargas presiding, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Pincher Creek.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Richard’s memory may be made directly to the Jack Ady Cancer Centre, 960 19th St. S., Lethbridge, AB, T1J 1W5.

Arrangements entrusted to Eden’s Funeral Home, Pincher Creek 403-627-3131 or www.edensfuneralhome.com

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

NOTICE OF HEARING ENVIRONMENTAL APPEALS BOARD Ian Sandeman

Water Act Enforcement Order No.WA-EO-2015/06-SSR Appeal No.: 15-031

Time: Date: Location:

8:30 a.m.

February 4, 2016 Lethbridge Lodge Hotel and Conference Centre 320 Scenic Drive, Lethbridge, Alberta

Enforcement Order The Environmental Appeals Board will hold a hearing on February 4, 2016, in Lethbridge, Alberta, to hear submissions with respect to the decision of Alberta Environment and Parks to issue to Ian Sandeman Water Act Enforcement Order No. WA-EO-2015/06-SSR for allegedly constructing an unauthorized berm and conducting unauthorized excavations of the bed and shore within a waterbody located at SE-21008-01-W5M in the Municipal District of Pincher Creek, near Cowley, Alberta.

Viewing Documents Effective December 18, 2015, copies of material filed with the Board respecting this appeal will be available for viewing at the Pincher Creek Municipal Library, 895 Main Street, Pincher Creek, Alberta, during its normal operating hours (please note the Library will be closed on December 24-26, 2015 and January 1, 2016), or by appointment at the office of the Environmental Appeals Board in Edmonton.

Information Requests Environmental Appeals Board Registrar of Appeals 306, 10011 – 109 Street Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 3S8 Telephone: 780-427-6207 Toll-free 310-0000, followed by 780-427-6207 Fax: 780-427-4693 E-Mail: gilbert.vannes@gov.ab.ca Website: www.eab.gov.ab.ca

Interventions Any person, other than the parties, who wishes to make a representation before the Board on this appeal must submit a request in writing by fax or by e-mail to the Board at the fax number or e-mail address set out below. The request must be received by the Board on or before January 7, 2016. It is your responsibility to ensure that your request is received by the Board by January 7, 2016. Such a request shall (a) contain the name, address, e-mail, and telephone and fax numbers of the person submitting the request, (b) indicate whether the person submitting the request intends to be represented by a lawyer or agent and, if so, the name of the lawyer or agent, (c) contain a summary of the nature of the person’s interest in this appeal, and (d) be signed by the person submitting the request. Applications will only be considered if the information will assist the Board in making its decision, and will not duplicate the information provided by the parties. After January 7, 2016, the Board will, in its discretion, determine if other persons may make representations, and the manner in which they can be made. Once the Board makes a decision on any intervenor applications, the hearing will be open to the public for viewing only.

The information requested is necessary to allow the Environmental Appeals Board to perform its function. The information is collected under the authority of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, section 33(c).

Section 33(c) provides that personal information may only be collected if that information relates directly to and is necessary for the processing of this appeal. The information you provide will be considered a public record.

About the Board The Environmental Appeals Board is an independent quasijudicial body that hears appeals of certain decisions made by Alberta Environment and Parks.

Environmental Appeals Board

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 27

CLASSIFIED ADS – You’ll find it here!

AUCTIONS

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

NEW YEARS DAY Antique Collector Auction! 11 a.m., Friday, January 1, Wainwright Legion, 1030 - 2 Ave., Wainwright, Alberta.

Scribner Auction 780-842-5666; www.scribnernet.com. Unreserved & No Buyer’s Fee!

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

CAREER TRAINING MEDICAL TRAINEES needed now! Hospitals & doctor’s offices need certified medical office & 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.

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.

COMING EVENTS COME AND LEARN. Unlock your Superpowers! Jan. 29 & 30, 2016, Edmonton. AWNA’s Annual Symposium. Educational Sessions in Journalism, Sales Ad & News Design. Internationally acclaimed speakers. Pre-Register.

For more info: www.awna.com/symposium.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES WATKIN MOTORS FORD, Vernon, BC, immediately requires an experienced Ford Diesel Technician. Go to watkinmotors.com About us, Employment, to apply and review required qualifications.

SEEKING A CAREER in the Community Newspaper business? Post your resume for FREE right where the publishers are looking. Visit: awna.com/for-job-seekers.

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT SCHOOL. Hands-On Tasks. Start Weekly. GPS Training! Funding & Housing Available! Job Aid! Already a HEO? Get certification proof. Call

A-CHEAP, lowest prices, steel shipping containers. Used 20’ & 40’ Seacans insulated & 40’ freezers, Special $2200. Wanted: Professional wood carvers needed. 1-866-528-7108; www. rtccontainer.com.

FEED AND SEED ROUND BALES - Hay, green feed, straw and bulk oats. Delivery available. No Sunday calls please. Phone 403-704-3509 or 403-7044333.

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.

FOR SALE: Alfalfas, Clovers, Grasses plus Hay, Pasture, Reclamation and Lawn Mixtures.

Early order discount - Book now! No charge custom blending. Call 1-800-661-1529 or esther.stigter@hannasseeds.com.

FOR SALE Gold’s Gym Trainer 410 treadmill. Next to new (used 4 times). $325. Call 403-6274553. 15-1p METAL ROOFING & SIDING. 32+ colours available at over 55 Distributors. 40 year warranty. 48 hour Express Service available at select supporting Distributors. Call 1-888263-8254.

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

MOTORCYCLES

WIN - 2016 Harley Davidson Dyna Wide Glide FXDWG103. 2nd - $700/credit; 3rd $300/credit. Only 599 tickets printed. Three Early Bird Draws. $100/ticket. June 17 draw.

Proceeds to support Motorcycle & Harley Programs, GPRC Fairview Campus. 1-888539-4772; www.gprc.ab.ca. License #421307.

REAL ESTATE 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; saskfarms@shaw.ca.

SERVICES CRIMINAL RECORD? Think: Canadian pardon.

U.S. travel waiver. Divorce? Simple. Fast. Inexpensive. Debt recovery? Alberta collection to $25,000. Calgary 403-228-1300/1-800-3472540.

REACH OVER 1 Million Readers Weekly.

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

HAVE YOU BEEN denied Canada Pension Plan disability benefits? The Disability Claims Advocacy Clinic can help you appeal. Call 1-877-793-3222; www.dcac.ca info@dcac.ca.

EASY ALBERTA DIVORCE. Free Consultation 1-800-320-2477; www.canadianlegal.org.

CCA Award #1 Paralegal. A+ BBB Reputation.

26 Years Experience. Open Mon. - Sat. WANTED BLUE GRASS LTD. is looking for Lodgepole Pine and Scots Pine in any size. Willing to dig or pick up ourselves. Contact Bill 403-2260468.

BLUE GRASS LTD. is looking for logging truck loads of Birch Firewood. Split or logs, delivered or picked up. Contact Bill 403-226-0468.

FREE SCRAP and truck removal including farm machinery. We pay cash at our yard.

1-780-914-7560; www.sturgeonbusparts.ca.

Local Classified Ad Rates

$10 plus GST (per week) includes up to 25 words. Additional words are 15 cents each.

Classified ads must be paid prior to insertion. Email office@shootinthebreeze.ca or call 403-904-2227.

Deadline is Thursday prior to publication at noon.

Community Social and Potluck Social Annual General Meeting September 27th from 1pm to 5pm Come One, Come All

Sunday, Jan. 17, 2016 Potluck Social at 12:30 p.m.

AGM at 2 p.m.

Visit with your neighbours, eat, play cards and check out the new Brand Boards.

Come One, Come All For more information, call 403-627-4035

is currently looking for

COOKS

Wage is dependent on experience We offer ... * competitive wages * on-duty meal allowances * plus many more benefits

Phone 403-627-5000 or come to the front desk for information.

919 Waterton Ave.

Pincher Creek

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NAPI FRIENDSHIP ASSOCIATION PINCHER CREEK Reporting to the Board of Directors, this position provides overall leadership for the Napi Friendship Association. The Society’s mandate is to provide programs and services to the Urban Aboriginal population and to those transitioning into the Urban Community.

The position offers a competitive salary and relocation assistance may be available depending on circumstances.

Previous Friendship Centre experience a definite asset.

For details and job description, please call the Napi Friendship Association at 403-627-4224, or email your request to jim.short@jrsmanagement.ca.

Deadline for applications is Dec. 31, 2015.

Only those selected for an interview will be notified.

Page 28

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

Child & Youth Events Calendar

Events and Entertainment – Full details are available in the Breeze online calendar – www.shootinthebreeze.ca Thursday, December 24 – Christmas Eve service - 7 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Pincher Creek Friday, December 25 Merry Christmas from all of us at Shootin’ the Breeze Saturday, December 26 Sunday, December 27 – Free family skating - 4 to 5 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek – Family skating - noon to 2 p.m. at Sports Complex in Coleman Monday, December 28 – Air cadets - 6:30 to 9:15 p.m. at Blairmore Elks Hall Tuesday, December 29 – Open play - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pincher Creek Parent Link Centre in Ranchland Mall – Lunch and stories with Anne Gover - noon to 2 p.m. at Napi Friendship Centre in Pincher Creek – Parent-tot and senior skating - 1 to 1:45 p.m. at Sports Complex in Coleman – Junior curling league - 4 to 5 p.m. at rink in Pincher Creek Wednesday, December 30 – Open play - 9 to 3 p.m. at Pincher

Creek Parent Link Centre in Ranchland Mall – Story time (ages 3-5) - 1 to 2 p.m. at Crowsnest Community Library in Blairmore – Free parent-and-tot skating noon to 1 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek – Free public skating - 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek Thursday, December 31 – Parent-tot and senior skating - 1 to 1:45 p.m. at Sports Complex in Coleman Friday, January 1 Saturday, January 2 – Crowsnest Pass Atom Thunder home game - 2:15 p.m. vs. Taber at Coleman Sports Complex Sunday, January 3 – Free family skating - 4 to 5 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek – Family skating - 2:30 to 3:45 p.m. at Sports Complex in Coleman Monday, January 4 – Back to school – SPICE Play (ages 0-5) - 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Parent Link Centre in Horace Allen School, Coleman – Inspirational play (ages 0-5) - 9

to 11 a.m. at Pincher Creek Parent Link Centre in Ranchland Mall – Crowsnest Indoor Playground - 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Amazing Artists (ages 0-5) - 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Parent Link Centre in Horace Allen School, Coleman – New and expectant moms group - 1 to 3 p.m. at Pincher Creek Parent Link Centre in Ranchland Mall – Air cadets - 6:30 to 9:15 p.m. at Blairmore Elks Hall Tuesday, January 5 – SPICE Play (ages 0-5) - 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Parent Link Centre in Horace Allen School, Coleman – Let’s Explore Together (ages 0-5) 9 to 11 a.m. at Pincher Creek Parent Link Centre in Ranchland Mall – Crowsnest Indoor Playground - 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Let’s Get Messy With Play (ages 0-5) - 10 to 11 a.m. at Pincher Creek Parent Link Centre in Ranchland Mall – BRAT Pack (Bringing Reading and Activities Together) - 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Crowsnest Community Library in Blairmore – Gym Time (ages 0-5) - 10:30 to 11 a.m. at at Parent Link Centre in Horace Allen School, Coleman – Lunch and stories with Anne

Gover - noon to 2 p.m. at Napi Friendship Centre in Pincher Creek – Parent-tot and senior skating - 1 to 1:45 p.m. at Sports Complex in Coleman – Junior curling league - 4 to 5 p.m. at rink in Pincher Creek Wednesday, January 6 – SPICE Play (ages 0-5) - 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Parent Link Centre in Horace Allen School, Coleman – Inspirational play (ages 0-5) - 9 to 11 a.m. at Pincher Creek Parent Link Centre in Ranchland Mall – Crowsnest Indoor Playground - 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Infant/toddler time (ages 0-2) 10 to 11 a.m. at at Pincher Creek Parent Link Centre in Ranchland Mall – Discovery Day (ages 0-5) - 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Parent Link Centre in Horace Allen School, Coleman – Story time (ages 3-5) - 1 to 2 p.m. at Crowsnest Community Library in Blairmore – Free parent-and-tot skating noon to 1 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek – Free public skating - 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek

List your event by calling 403-904-2227 or emailing office@shootinthebreeze.ca Listings are free for non-profit groups, service clubs, schools, youth organizations and events advertised in the Breeze.

Proud to Support Our Community

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 29

Santa stops at the Legion Santa paid his annual visit to the Bellevue Legion during Santa in the Park activities in mid December.

Laragh Desrosiers and her mom, Launa-Lynn, work on a snowman while Dreya Perkins has a visit with the jolly old man himself.

Photos by Brad Quarin

Shootin’ the Breeze Business Directory See your ad here for as little as $13.60 per week. For information, call 403-904-2227 or email ads@shootinthebreeze.ca

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Dr. Adam T. Gorner

403-904-0099 www.rockyridgeeyes.ca

835 Kettles Street Pincher Creek

R. Roy Davidson Law Office Real Estate • Corporate/Commercial • Wills & Estates 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

403-627-3013 645 Main Street Pincher Creek

see us for all your accounting needs

Honouring Life’s Memories . . .

Eden’s Funeral Home

A division of Caringroup

403-627-3131 Box 924, 966 Elm St., Pincher Creek, AB

www.edensfuneralhome.com

Dennis Novak

Shawn Kyllo

EAT WHAT YOU LIKE IN COMFORT

personal • business • estates

R

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel 1-877-896-8555 13461 – 20 Ave. Blairmore www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca

Recipient of “Excellence in Customer Service Awards”

Pincher Creek Eye Clinic Dr. Bart Anderson

Dr. Laura Chisholm

403-627-2930 761 Main Street Pincher Creek

There’s no better time than NOW to quit smoking!

Just three sessions will get you on track!

Call to join my acupuncture program today for a healthy new you tomorrow!

Gift certificates available

obin & Co. CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANT

Pincher Creek Office

Open Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

403-627-3313 697 Main Street Pincher Creek

Crowsnest Pass Office

Open Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

403-562-2895 2022 127 Street Blairmore

403-627-4811

PINCHER CREEK DENTURE CLINIC

Dr. R. Wendrich TCMD, Reg. Acupuncturist 403-563-8105 Crowsnest Pass chinookfamilyacupuncture@hotmail.ca

Page 30 Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

Merry Christmas from Crestview!

Submitted by Charmaine Tienkamp for the residents of Crestview Lodge We want to say a very big thank you to the Fort McLeod and Pincher Creek cadets for providing the residents of Crestview Lodge with a special Remembrance Day service. They did a fantastic job! It was very appreciated by the residents who are no longer able to go to the Community Hall for the regular services on Nov. 11.

We also thank the folks in the Parade of Lights for bringing their beautiful floats

by Crestview Lodge, allowing the residents to take part in the festivities. You have no idea how much pleasure you brought the residents. Thanks also to Lieve at the chamber of commerce for suggesting the float route. It sure brought some Christmas cheer our way!

Another thank you goes out to the people of the community for coming to Crestview Lodge and supporting our annual tea and bazaar. It was a great success, and we could not have done it without all of you who joined us for tea.

We have been blessed with many really special volunteers who need to be thanked with huge hugs from the bottom of our hearts! Thank you to all the families that assisted with donations of your wonderful baking and crafts, and your time. We are very blessed here at Crestview!

The winners of our raffle are Lorilee Little Mustache of Pincher Creek with first prize, the 50-inch smart TV; Dan Crawford of Pincher with second prize, the garden table and stepping stone; Kara Civitarese of Crowsnest Pass with third prize, the meat certificates from Backcountry Butchers; Sheila McRae of Pincher with fourth prize, a handmade afghan.

Congratulations to the winners and thanks to everyone who bought tickets.

Thank you also goes out to the Quilters Guild members, who helped make items for our annual tea and bazaar. Without their aid in making items we would not have been as successful. Such wonderful ladies to volunteer their time and energy for us.

Thank you to Perfect Posies for donating a beautiful holiday centrepiece for our door prize. They are warm and caring with their continued support of us each year.

Thank you to Backcountry Butchers for their continued support each year with gift certificates. They sure bring in more attendance with ticket sales. You guys rock!

Last but not least, a huge thank you to the residents and staff for all they do to make the annual tea and bazaar fun, yummy and successful.

Have a very blessed Merry Christmas and Glorious New Year!

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Photo by Brad Quarin

Kim Jorgenson sports a sea turtle necklace she purchased through Livingstone School, in support of a sea turtle conservation program.

Necklace sales support sea turtle conservation

By Brad Quarin Five Livingstone School students journeyed to Mexico this year to study marine biology in the Sea of Cortez with the Panterra program.

For some of these students, the highlight of the trip was participating in another program, Grupo Tortuguero. This is a sea turtle conservation program based in Los Barriles, Baja California Sur. Students helped baby sea turtles get to the water after hatching on the beach. Seagulls, dogs and foxes pose threats to them, and the species is endangered.

“We literally got to put them into a bucket, take them close to the sea and then let them go,” says teacher Tracey Preston-Hucik. “They were absolutely adorable.”

Back at school in Lundbreck, and inspired to help out Grupo Tortuguero financially, Tracey decided to take advance orders for sea turtle necklaces. The necklaces are handcrafted by artists and made from glass.

“I love them. They’re beautiful,” says school volunteer Kim Jorgenson, who bought three. She has them in black, green and pink.

Orders came from staff, students and parents, with a total of 44 necklaces sold. This raised $880 for Grupo Tortuguero.

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

December 23, 2015

Shootin’ the Breeze

Page 31

Adult & Senior Events Calendar

Events and Entertainment – Full details are available in the Breeze online calendar – www.shootinthebreeze.ca Thursday, December 24 – Cribbage - 1:30 p.m. at Huddlestun Senior Centre in Pincher Creek – Christmas Eve service - 7 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Pincher Creek Friday, December 25 Merry Christmas from all of us at Shootin’ the Breeze Saturday, December 26 Sunday, December 27 – Free family skating - 4 to 5 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek – Family skating - 12 to 2 p.m. at Sports Complex in Coleman – Darts - 2:30 p.m. at Bellevue Legion Monday, December 28 – Exercise for LIFE (Lifestyle, Interaction, Fitness, Energy) free adult class - 10 to 11 a.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Gym walk - 11 a.m to 1 p.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Shuffleboard/500 game - 1:30 p.m. at Huddlestun Senior Centre in Pincher Creek – Women’s curling league - 7 p.m. at rink in Pincher Creek Tuesday, December 29 – Parent-tot and senior skating - 1 to 1:45 p.m. at Sports Complex in Coleman – Snooker - 9:30 a.m. at Huddlestun Senior Centre in Pincher Creek

– Lunch and stories with Anne Gover - noon to 2 p.m. at Napi Friendship Centre in Pincher Creek – Blackfoot language class with William Big Bull - 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Napi Friendship Centre in Pincher Creek – Men’s curling league - 7 p.m. at rink in Pincher Creek – Gym walk - 11 a.m to 1 p.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Cards - 7 p.m. at Pincher Creek Legion – Alcoholics Anonymous - 8 p.m. at Elks Hall in Pincher Creek Wednesday, December 30 – Free parent-and-tot skating - noon to 1 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek – Exercise for LIFE (Lifestyle, Interaction, Fitness, Energy) free adult class - 10 to 11 a.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Gym walk - 11 a.m to 1 p.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Duplicate bridge - 1 p.m. at Huddlestun Senior Centre in Pincher Creek – Whist - 1:30 p.m. at Bellecrest Senior Centre in Bellevue, all ages welcome – Free public skating - 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek – Cribbage - 7 p.m. at Pincher Creek Legion – Mixed curling league - 7 p.m. at rink in Pincher Creek Thursday, December 31 – Parent-tot and senior skating - 1 to 1:45 p.m. at Sports Complex in

Coleman – New Year’s Eve celebration with live music by Randy Poirier - 7:30 p.m. at Pincher Creek Legion Friday, January 1 Saturday, January 2 – Crowsnest Pass Atom Thunder home game - 2:15 p.m. vs. Taber at Coleman Sports Complex Sunday, January 3 – Free family skating - 4 to 5 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek – Family skating - 2:30 to 3:45 p.m. at Sports Complex in Coleman – Darts - 2:30 p.m. at Bellevue Legion Monday, January 4 – Town councillor candidate forum - 7 p.m. at Pincher Creek town hall gym – Exercise for LIFE (Lifestyle, Interaction, Fitness, Energy) free adult class - 10 to 11 a.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Gym walk - 11 a.m to 1 p.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Women’s curling league - 7 p.m. at rink in Pincher Creek Tuesday, January 5 – Parent-tot and senior skating - 1 to 1:45 p.m. at Sports Complex in Coleman – Lunch and stories with Anne Gover - noon to 2 p.m. at Napi Friendship Centre in Pincher Creek – Sturling league (curling for those

less mobile) - 2 p.m. at rink in Pincher Creek – Blackfoot language class with William Big Bull - 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Napi Friendship Centre in Pincher Creek – Men’s curling league - 7 p.m. at rink in Pincher Creek – Gym walk - 11 a.m to 1 p.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Cards - 7 p.m. at Pincher Creek Legion – Alcoholics Anonymous - 8 p.m. at Elks Hall in Pincher Creek Wednesday, January 6 – Free parent-and-tot skating - noon to 1 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek – Exercise for LIFE (Lifestyle, Interaction, Fitness, Energy) free adult class - 10 to 11 a.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Gym walk - 11 a.m to 1 p.m. at MDM Community Centre in Bellevue – Duplicate bridge - 1 p.m. at Huddlestun Senior Centre in Pincher Creek – Whist - 1:30 p.m. at Bellecrest Senior Centre in Bellevue, all ages welcome – Free public skating - 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. at MCC Arena in Pincher Creek – Cribbage - 7 p.m. at Pincher Creek Legion – Mixed curling league - 7 p.m. at rink in Pincher Creek

List your event by calling 403-904-2227 or emailing office@shootinthebreeze.ca Listings are free for non-profit groups, service clubs, schools, youth organizations and events advertised in the Breeze.

We Wish You a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

Page 32

Shootin’ the Breeze

December 23, 2015

Distributed weekly to Pincher Creek, Crowsnest Pass and surrounding communities

Pincher Office Products & Christine’s Gift Shoppe

Come by for our SWEET CHRISTMAS BAKING and keep an eye out for our daily specials!

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!

OPEN

For Last-Minute Shopping!

Squares and Cookies Homemade Baking Cinnamon Buns Butterhorns

Open until 3 p.m. on Dec. 24 Join us for a cup of cider Closed Dec. 25 to Dec. 27

403-627-2628 750 Main St. Pincher Creek

403-627-4772

Half Block Off Main Street 823 Kettles Street Pincher Creek

Merry Christmas Photo by Erin Fairhurst

Ivy Folkard receives a Christmas mug featuring her artwork from Beverly Walsh of Crowsnest Dental.

Young artist creates Christmas keepsake Ivy Folkard, 8, was the proud winner of the creative contest hosted this fall by Crowsnest Dental. Ivy’s drawing of a winter snowman scene has been reproduced on a mug by Crowsnest Dental, and Ivy was awarded a few mugs to take home, as well as a custom gift bag.

Patients at Crowsnest Dental can also look forward to receiving one of the custom mugs, along with a candy cane and some hot chocolate during the holiday season. There’s just one catch: Don’t forget to brush your teeth afterwards.

From Barry and Sophie and the

Simply Catering Crew