special features - season's greetings!

Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014 PONOKA NEWS 1

A Supplement to

Seasons Greetings

B2 PONOKA NEWS Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014

403-783-8411403-783-8411At the Junction of QE 2 and Hwy. 53At the Junction of QE 2 and Hwy. 53

www.donlaingtrailers.comwww.donlaingtrailers.com

We would like to take this opportunity

to thank all our past, present and future

customers.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a

healthy and prosperous New Year.

Dan, Inger & Ginger

Seasons Greetings

Della Quine, 4, visits with Santa during the Chamber Children’s Shopping Party held at St. Augustine Catholic School, Dec. 6. Quine says her favourite part of Christmas is opening pres-ents.

Photo by Amelia Naismith

Santa Claus visits St. Augustine Catholic SchoolBY AMELIA NAISMITH

As Christmas draws near, Santa Claus took time out of his busy toy-making schedule to visit with the children who attended the Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce’s Children’s Shopping Party, held at the St. Augustine Catholic School Saturday, Dec. 6.

While away from the North Pole, Santa uses his elves to make sure everything is ready for Christmas Eve. “This has been a very

busy year, I really can’t keep up. I had to use Christmas magic and all of the elves,” Santa said explaining his hectic schedule.

“And the reindeers’ magic. We’ve got to have good magic to be able to fly,” he added.”

To keep up his strength during his long flight around the world, Santa asks citizens to keep his favorite Christmas treat on hand, milk and cookies. “I like chocolate chip cookies,” he said.

Santa also keeps his team of reindeer on his mind at all times and urges the people of the world to do the same. “The reindeer really like carrots. We cannot grow carrots at the North Pole, even in the summer, because the ground is too hard.”

Checking his list may prove easier than in other years as, he said in an inter-view with Ponoka News, that most of the children around the world are on the ‘nice’ list. Although he is the embodiment of Christmas, Santa also has his own favorite aspects of the holiday. “My favorite part is the magic, it’s the jingle of bells.”

He feels if everyone stopped their busy lives for a moment or two, not just during the holiday season, to listen to the jingle of bells, the world would be a more joyous place

Ponoka License & Registry

Holiday Hours:Open

Dec. 24 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.Dec. 31 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

ClosedDec. 25, 26 2014 & Jan. 1, 2015

Wishing you & your family a very Merry Christmas and

a Happy New Year

4902 50 St • 403-783-5525

good friends this holiday season.good friends this holiday season.

Best WishesBest WishesScizzor WizzardScizzor Wizzard

Hair Design & Suntan SalonHair Design & Suntan Salon

5102 46 Ave, PonokaPhone: 403-783-4648

We’d be real heels, if we didn’t say “Thanks!” for taking a shine to us.

we’ve taken a shine to youwe’ve taken a shine to you

To all our friends both far and near,

We wish a very bright Christmas and a happy

New Year!

CCCHHROMESSAAFEFETYTY SERVICES LTLL D.

Christi Ferguson-Huston, CRSPLacombe 403-782-0455www.chromesafety.ca

PHONE: 403-783-4911PHONE: 403-783-4911FAX: 403-783-5222FAX: 403-783-5222

[email protected] • [email protected] • www.direct-travel.ca

The Christmas season is a The Christmas season is a perfect time to say perfect time to say

“Thank You”, “Thank You”, and to express to you and and to express to you and

yours every happiness during yours every happiness during this beautiful season and this beautiful season and

throughout the coming year.throughout the coming year.

Kahla, Theresa, Ramona,Amber, Diane

Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014 PONOKA NEWS 3Seasons Greetings

Chef Vern Olson pictured as offered a helping hand at the Community Christmas in 2013.

Photo by Susan Whitecotton

Community Christmas a time to come togetherBY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

In an effort to bring joy and happiness to folks on Christmas Day, a Ponoka Community Christmas has been a big part of giving during the holiday season.

Held at the Kinsmen Community Centre with help from a strong group of volunteers, the event starts at 10 a.m. and will end at 2 p.m., says orga-nizer Bob Hepp. “We’re always looking forward to people coming.”

Last year 230 people attended with lots of tur-key, ham and other food to fill their bellies. With all the donated food, 300 to-go meals ended up being packed for attendees.

To keep the mood cheerful volunteers come early to play live music. “It’s phenomenal enter-tainment,” said Hepp.

Hot chocolate, snacks, candy and hundreds or stuffed toys will be part of the event.

“I’ve got almost 2,000 stuffed toy ani-mals on hand,” he added.

The trick to ensur-ing a smoothly-run day is in the volunteers. To help organize those who want to help with the Community Christmas, Hepp has sought the assistance of Carla Pre-diger and Val Schabert.

The two have been able to place the army of cheerful volunteers into different areas so that the day goes well. Sometimes helping out means sitting and having a meal with at-tendees, explained Hepp.

Seniors who need help getting to the Community Christmas will get help from the Wheelchair Van Soci-ety that takes people to and from the hall. Hepp says all they have to do is book with the society and the van will be there for transportation.

Prediger says orga-nizing the volunteers is always a fun experience. “I like to make Bob’s life easier because he’s committed to this pro-cess for 15 years.”

She says it used to

be an event for folks who couldn’t afford to get their own Christmas meal, but Prediger feels that has changed over the years. “Now it is an amalga-mation of everybody.”

“It’s become a town and county event and our volunteers say that,” she added.

To make food donations, Hepp suggests people inform him as soon as possible and those wishing to make a cash donation can go to Servus Credit Union to donate into the Ponoka Commu-nity Christmas account.

“It’s going to be bigger than ever,” concluded Hepp.

For food donations contact Hepp at 403-783-6165 and to volunteer contact Prediger at 403-783-4078 or Schabert at 403-783-8799.

As the festive season As the festive season fast approaches, fast approaches, Ponoka Town Ponoka Town

Council & Sta Council & Sta wish everyone a wish everyone a safe and joyous safe and joyous holiday seasonholiday season

Mayor Rick BonnettMayor Rick BonnettCouncillors:Councillors:

Tim Falkiner, Loanna Gulka, Sandra Lyon, Tim Falkiner, Loanna Gulka, Sandra Lyon, Carla Prediger,Teri Underhill, Marc YaworskiCarla Prediger,Teri Underhill, Marc Yaworski

“I’ve got almost 2,000 stuffed toy animals on hand.”

Bob Hepp, organizer

Greetings of the SeasonWith warm wishes to you and yours we thank you for friendship and support.

403-704-23834201 66 Street, Ponoka

With Warm Wishes for a Happy Holiday Season and

Prosperous New Year!

ECWate

H

ECKLUNDWater Well Services

Home: 403-783-3712Cell: 403-704-3413

In the spirit of the season,we extend heartfelt thanks

and best wishes for a happy, healthy season.

DOT’S FABRICS YARNS & CRAFTS

403.783.40915023 - 51 Ave.

B4 PONOKA NEWS Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014 Seasons Greetings

BY MIKE RAINONE FOR THE NEWS

At the age of 72 years, I can joyfully say that I have always looked forward to the coming of the Christmas holidays, and although it may have changed just a little since our little family arrived in Ponoka way back in 1948, it will hopefully be the happiest time of the year for all of you, no matter how old we may be.

My fondest memories of the festive season have come from being able to share the celebration and joy together with so many others, including parents, neighbours, old and new friends, school-church and team buddies, and of course later with our own children and grandchildren. We have and always will get quite giddy with excitement about the giving and receiving of presents to and from precious family and friends, with a whole lot of special surprises thrown in just for fun. Everyone, from children to seniors likely already have visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads, hoping that we have qualified for a Santa visit this time around, while looking forward to all the other great tradi-tions of the frosty festive season. By the way, if you still don’t believe in Santa Claus, or Saint Nicolas, or whoever that jolly old bearded gent in the red suit might be, he has supposedly been around since the 4th century, makes only once visit a year, and really looks forward to trading toys for treats on Christmas Eve.

Who can’t love the seasonal music of the sea-son, whether it be the age old or new carols and songs, along with the country, classic, rock, or hip-hop beat styles and themes. At this great time of the year there are so many delightful concerts and events at schools, churches, halls, and homes all around every spirited community, which have all been blessed with the love, sparkling colors and the joy of the amazing festive occasion. It doesn’t matter if we have a real tree, a Charlie Brown spe-

cial, or one of those flashy store-bought varieties, because they will all look fabulous when we add our own unique magic and personal touch, then top them off with the family treasures and trinkets that have been placed inside and outside each and ev-ery home sweet home for many generations. Then there are always the old ‘sweet treats’ such as can-dy apples, taffy, fudge, rock candy and all the rest.

No doubt we will eat, nibble, and overindulge just a little too much over the 12 days of Christmas, letting it all loose at that marvelous and yummy December 25 feast with cherished family and friends.... But what the heck, we will have all those ‘slow-down’ days in January to get back into trim. The other great adventure of this hectic season is the annual shopping spree, which has also changed just a little over the years, mainly because there are now so many overwhelming choices. But then again, the new glitzy electronic era of communica-tion and gift-cards have made it a whole lot easier to send special wishes to loved ones and friends across town, or around the world. In the meantime, here are just a few of those gala ‘old traditions’ of the Christmas season, which I sincerely hope all of you will have the fabulous and friendly opportunity of sharing with everyone, especially those in need and a little down on their luck.

*We all love to see the glorious Nativity scene, which represents the true meaning of Christmas, and whether it is presented at a concert or is in a sparkling natural setting outside in the snow; the traditional costumes and magic of the event must never be forgotten.

*Remember when we used to put real flicker-ing candles on the tree, and when our homes were magically illuminated and warmed on Christmas Eve by kerosene lamps, a pot-bellied stove, and a roaring fireplace, with chestnuts roasting? I am sure there are some who still make their own house and tree decorations, including popcorn strings, colored crepe paper streamers, all sorts of bobbles, those long boxes of glittering icicles, and those colored paper crackers that you pulled apart and giggled when they popped.

*Later on Christmas and Boxing Day when we are completely ‘stuffed’ and played out, it is great to get out in the fresh air and snow to try out the new skates on the out-door rink, the sleighs on the golf course hill, or just go for a jog or walk the

Most Christmas traditions have survived for decades

dog. Some may even dare to make snow-angels, or get a friendly snow-ball war going with the neighbours. Is Egg-nog still a popular holiday drink, or have the more modern spicy taste-bud teasers now taken over?

*Many centuries ago Mistletoe was said to have been a sign of peace and believed to have healing powers,

but then Frigga the Goddess of Love got involved, and the great tradition of kissing under that colorful plant was born.

*The exchanging of Christ-mas cards began in England in the 18th century, when young school continued on page 5.

This delightful Christmas tree will greet visitors to the Fort Ostell Museum this season, and is decorated with the garland and ornaments from many decades ago.

With exceeding great joy, we wish you and yours peace, joy and enlightenment throughout

this holy season and beyond.

3709 - 45 Street, Ponoka3709 - 45 Street, Ponoka

BOB HEPP & COMPANY CATERINGBOB HEPP & COMPANY CATERING403-783-6165403-783-6165

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given:and the government shall be upon his shoulder:

and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor,

The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

- Isaiah 9:6

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T he very best this holiday season!

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Merry Christmas& Happy New Year!We appreciate your business

and look forward to serving you in the New Year


continued form page 4.boys honed their writing and coloring skills by sending greetings to their parents or girlfriends. In later years people got too busy to greet everybody personally, so the Post Office would distribute millions of cards each and every December. The traditional Holly and Ivy was first believed to have magic powers because it would remain green through the harshest of dreary winters, and was placed on the front doors to keep evil away.

*The famous Christmas song Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer was written in 1939 and had dis-tributed 6 million copies by 1946. Poinsettias were a native plant of Mexico, which were brought to the United States as a gift in the 17th century, and are now seen every Christmas in all their glory and

color throughout the world. Candy canes became a sweet treat for the children in the 17th century, were first called ‘candy crooks’ and were handed out to keep the kids quiet during the annual Christ-mas services and ceremonies.

In the ages of the Noblemen, the young ladies would hang the wet socks of the weary warriors above the fire-place to dry them off, but when someone started filling them with gold coins the tradition was born, and is still celebrated each Christmas. Sincere Season’s greetings and bless-ings from our family to yours, with hopes that you will celebrate a traditional or modern Christmas ‘your way’ with family and friends, as well as sharing the joy with many others at home or in and around our great community.

Ponoka Veterinary Clinic5502 - Hwy 2A Ponoka, AB

24 Hr. Emergency - 403-783-4348

May you enjoy all the best of the Christmas May you enjoy all the best of the Christmas season with family, friends and neighboursseason with family, friends and neighbours

Wishing you all the blessings of the season and a Happy New Year!

Home Décor and Gift StoreHome Décor and Gift Store

250072 Menaik Road Ponoka1⁄2 km West of Hwy 2A

587-797-1368

203, Bldg 2, 6701 Hwy 53

403-783-6422

To our customers & friends many To our customers & friends many thanks for your patronage this year!thanks for your patronage this year!

SHAKE IT UP…IT’S CHRISTMAS!

Sing. Laugh. Kick up your heels. In other words, “have a great holiday!”

Thank you for all the good times we’ve had serving you.

403-783-5189 • Fax: 403-783-6523

Toll Free: 1-855-830-6235430054 Don Laing Business Park, Ponoka

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Our real joy of the season is the chance to put aside the routine of

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We truly appreciate your patronage.

403.346.5533www.soderquist.ca

[email protected]


BY TOM CNOSSENMASKWACIS

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH

A lot of us are familiar with the traditional Christmas Story, which in-cludes Mary and Joseph, some angels and shepherds, a manger and some wise men, but maybe not so familiar with the version given to us by the Apostle John. Instead of going to Bethlehem, John travels back to eternity past and introduces us to Jesus the “Word”, who not only was with God, but who is God Himself. John writes: “Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been

made.” John goes on to tell us that Je-sus, the Word, “became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” Imagine that – the God of the universe stooping down in humility to become a human being. He did this for a specific reason – so that we could receive Him, believe in His name, and become “children of God.”

The Christmas Story is not just a cute little tale, but it is the revelation of

God’s rescue plan for all nations. It is the story of God entering our world to bring us back to Him-self, back to the way it was supposed to be. Now that is hope! Merry Christmas!

The Other Christmas Story

Emily Hagemann (left) and Kelli-Rae Sieben decorate a Christmas tree in the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre cafeteria as part of their 4H goodwill and volunteering duties.


AuthorizedRegistry Agent

4907 50th St., Bashaw, AB780-372-3584

From all of us at

Margaret WilliamsBarb GrantAngela SheppardSue GilliesTerra ProssCandace Hunter

with a round of best wishes to all our good friends at Christmas

A&J AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR6701 - 46 Ave. • Ponoka, AB

403-783-8755Al Dickhaut • Owner/Operator

Deck the Deck the Halls!Halls!

Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014 PONOKA NEWS B7Seasons Greetings

L to R: Rylee Henderson, Shannon Ross, Kailey Russell and Kiara John-son’s Whoville gingerbread house came in second in St. Augustine’s in-house and community gingerbread competitions. Submitted photo

BY AMELIA NAISMITH

The imagination and artistic skills of the students at St. Augustine Catholic School are helping to save a refugee family from Myanmar and give them a new life in Ponoka.

Annually, St. Augustine holds a gin-gerbread competition, for which members of the community donate the creation of their choice. This year’s competition was held at Children’s Shopping Party of the Ponoka and District the Chamber of Commerce, Saturday Dec. 6.

“The Catholic Church and the school are spon-soring the family,” said foods teacher

Dayna Wittal. Usually, proceeds from the competition go to a Salva-

tion Army project, but the church chose to support the refugee family this

year. “They actu-

ally met at the refugee camp,” said Wittal.

The compe-tition raised $219, with Alissa Cline, Zach Prediger and Bailey Rush’s cre-ation coming in first place.

The 14 gin-gerbread houses were built by

Gingerbread houses fund refugee house

students grades 7 to 9 in foods class. “This, we’ve been working quite hard on,” said Wittal.

Approximately 30 hours went into each gingerbread house and Wittal says students were coming in after school and during their lunch hours to perfect them.

Along with the competition, a raffle house made by Wittal funds the family, who arrive mid-December, and the school’s annual Goodwill

Cup also contributes proceeds.Each year the school also holds

an in-house competition. Tea Maxwell, Emma Wittal

and Colleen Wyering’s Jack Frost’s House took first place with Who-ville, built by Rylee Henderson, Shan-non Ross, Kailey Russell and Kiara Johnson, coming in second.

ee

the

-

Usually, proceeds from the competition go to a Salvation Army project, but the church chose to support

a refugee family this year.

We Wish You We Wish You A Merry A Merry ChristmasChristmas

4205 Hwy 2A 403-783-3333

Ponoka County

With glad tidings to you and your kinfrom all of us this holiday season

Our offi ce will be closedDec. 24, 25, 26& Jan 1, 2015

Ponoka County Waste Transfer Station

Dec. 24 - Open until noonDec. 31 - Open until noon

From the council & staff at

Wishing you all the creature comforts for a purr-fect holiday season.

We couldn’t have asked for better friends than you.

Hobbema Transport3906 66 St

403-783-5275Hobbema

780-585-2424

Joy to the WorldMay peace and contentment be yours,

as together we share in the magic of this special time of year. Merry Christmas!


The organizing team of the St. Mary’s Anglican Church’s annual Christmas Tea celebrate the event held on Saturday, Dec. 6. Christmas goodies and holiday gifts for sale brought a happy crowd in from the chilly winter weather. Photo by Amelia Naismith

Merry Christmas!

have a joyousNOEL!

With warm wishes and gratitude

this holiday season from our

entire staff.We thank you

for the privilege of serving you

and hope to see you again soon!

JOHN. W LOW Agencies Inc.5118 - 50 Street, Ponoka

1-800-392-8658 403.783.5512

Wishing you a Joyous Holiday Season and a New Year fi lled with Health and Happiness.

5800 - 57 Ave. • 403-783-3341

PONOKA HOSPITALPONOKA HOSPITAL& CARE CENTRE& CARE CENTRE

Merry Christmas

– Ponoka’s Christmas Store –

fl [email protected]

– From All of Us at –

Wishing Everyone a

MerryChristmas!

403-783-8190


WILLIAM DELLEMANSONRISE REFORMEDCHRISTIAN CHURCH

Christmas! For me, this is the moment in time when God said, all will be well, and here I am to show the way.

In his coming Jesus brought heaven and earth together and in doing so, he declares I am making all things new. So that all that us good about life in this world: food, drink, work, play, intimacy and friendship can be deeply meaningful, pleasurable and purposeful right now.

And all that is bad is on notice. It will not last, cannot last under

the light of redeeming love. Jesus urged all who would listen,

come into a new understanding of

how the world works. Troubles, fear and sad-

ness are real, painful and it can be so tempting to despair. There is so much of it!

But look beyond, look beneath, God so loves this world that is why God came.

No matter what anyone thinks of God, never doubt it – God knows how you feel, he’s lived through it as well.

And that is why I can celebrate this is the season of hope, joy, peace and above all love.

May that season be yours also and may it extend for you far beyond Dec. 25 into all the days of your life.

Cody Baird (left), Jamie Blinkhorn (center) and Scott MacGregor, all Ponoka Secondary Campus teachers, sat with Santa on Monday Dec. 8 to bring a little holiday joy to the school’s halls.


Bad cannot last

This is the season of hope, joy, peace and above all love.

HOURS:HOURS:Mon - Thurs 3pm - 11pmMon - Thurs 3pm - 11pmFriday 11am - 11pmFriday 11am - 11pmSaturday 3pm - 11pmSaturday 3pm - 11pmSun & Holidays 4pm - 10pmSun & Holidays 4pm - 10pm

Merry Merry Christmas! Christmas! From All of us,From All of us,To All of You!To All of You!

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403-783-4460403-783-4460

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Merry Christmas

T hank you for your loyal support.

We know you have been good...ESPECIALLY TO US!

Customers &Friends!

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Collision Centre

With Th anks for Your Business

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

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To all of those who have passed our way, go

our very best wishes

for a bright holiday!

403.783.6281

4814 - 50 Street, Ponoka403-783-8721

locally owned

Merry Christmas!Thank you all for a

very special year and your continued

support & patronage


Jesse Vandenbroek helps out by donating food to Ponoka Secondary Campus Stuff-a-Bus cam-paign Tuesday, Dec. 2 at No Frills. Here Kendyl Stretch helps hold the door open.

Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE AND AMELIA NAISMITH

Charity initiatives by students at the then Ponoka Composite High School 33 years ago have created a long-standing tradition in Ponoka.

Students at the now Ponoka Sec-ondary Campus (PSC) have been busy with their Santa’s Anonymous program since October, preparing boxes to receive donated gifts and food for families who cannot afford their own.

To maximize on donations, stu-dents were seen at No Frills and Hamilton’s IGA Tuesday, Dec. 2 for their Stuff-a-Bus program accepting food and cash donations for their hamper program. Organizer Karen David said she tried to involve as many students as possible.

The need for hampers is still great. David says one year they filled 138 hampers. She expects over 100 for this year. “We try to make all the hampers the same.”

She has always received positive

feedback and, at times, is touched by the support, which is a source of con-firmation they are doing the right thing.

“Just this morning somebody came up to the school . . . and dropped a little envelope. It just said, ‘For Santa’s Anonymous. Thanks for all your help in the past.’ Inside there was a $100 bill. That’s why we do it,” explained David.

Food staples such as pasta, pasta sauce, sugar and cereals can be found in the hampers and David says family hampers get a turkey and individual hampers re-ceive a ham.

On Wednesday, Dec. 10 students collected all the boxes and sorted them to make filling the hampers easier. David says for the last three years, leadership students at Ponoka Elementary School have helped out.

She also includes entire class-rooms to help with the work. The

PSC Stuff-a-Bus has a long history in Ponokamore the helpers, the faster they are able to sort boxes of food and prepare gifts. The benefits are great and at this time of year, Da-vid suggests consideration should be given to other people’s situa-tions.

“It’s Christmas and you don’t know what people’s circumstanc-es are. Lots of people give back,” said David, referring to families that have received help in the past.

“It should be a happy time, es-pecially for the kids,” she added.

When hampers are ready, stu-dents get a pink or a blue card that indicates if the child is a boy or girl and their age. From there, students will find an appropriate gift for that child.

A TEAM EFFORTWhile David has organized Santa’s Anony-

mous for the last seven years, she says operations would not run smoothly if it weren’t for the help from an army of volunteers. “Even though I’m the organizer overseeing it, there are lots of people I depend on.”

Junior and senior high school students get involved and community members will take the initiative to sponsor a basket and after, help drop off baskets.

The students also play a large part in driving the initiative behind the Stuff-a-Bus campaign.

“I think a lot of us don’t realize how lucky we are in our financial situation, especially around the holiday,” said Grade 12 student and first time Stuff-a-Bus volunteer Hannah Allin.

continued on page 11

Celebrate the tradition of giving, the beauty of the season and aNew Year of peace and happiness.

Battle River Insurance Ltd. | The Co-operators 5103 48 Ave, Bay #3 | Ponoka, AB | 403-783-3987

As is our tradition, in lieu of sending cards to our clients and as a thank you for your

patronage, we have made a donationto the Ponoka Food Bank.

5101 - 51 Avenue403.704.1110

Now save 20-50 % on all winter fashions

Gift Certifi cates and free gift wrapping available

Wishing you a

happy and healthy

Holiday Season

You’re the best bunch of pardners we’ve ever had

Your support and your friendship have made us most glad

So we hope that your holiday brings you much cheer

And enough good fortune to ride out the year!

We wish you the best of holidays and look forward to seeing you soon.

We’reWe’reRounding UpRounding UpOur ThanksOur Thanks

ARAFTER ENTERPRISES

Kelly & Lana Avery & family

Shandall Plumbing Ltd.Jim & Faye Avery & family

403-783-6372

403-588-2997Farrier Services


Rhonda Lillemo helps out by donating food to Ponoka Secondary Campus Stuff-a-Bus campaign Tuesday, Dec. 2 at No Frills. Here Kendyl Stretch and Nikki Buss accept donations.


continued from page 10.“I feel good about it, we definitely helped a lot

of people,” she added. “If I realized how big of an impact it had, I would have started earlier.

She feels there was good community support for the program but many people needed to be educated on its purpose.

Santa’s Anonymous chair Kassidy McCurdy, Grade 10, feels it’s hard to see the impact from the outside and, as it was her first year involved, she was not expecting the amount of impact the program has.

“I think it more, when you get to deliver (the hampers), seeing these kids faces,” McCurdy ex-plained.

She was also impressed with community re-ception and says the visual of the actual bus helped people realize how much is needed. “They were giving once you told them what you were there for.”

“We really do appreciate all the support we get,” she added.

Hampers are delivered Dec. 17 after school.

Folks Like You...Are one of a kind!

With wishes warm and bright to all our friends and neighbours

at this festive time of year.

6220 - 48 Avenue, Ponoka, AB403.783.3998

[email protected] | www.integratire.com

Merry Merry ChristmasChristmas& Many & Many ThanksThanks

It’s been areal treat serving you,

and we hope your holiday is as special

as you are!

Ponoka Fertilizer

6024 - 49 St. 403-783-4103

Service From the Word Grow

& Happy New Year! & Happy New Year!

FROM THE RESIDENTS & STAFF

403.783.33734004 – 40 Street Close

www.sunrisevillages.com


The Christmas trifectaPonoka News asked our elected offi cials three questions related to the Christmas Season

WETASKIWIN MP BLAINE CALKINS

FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS FOOD

“I always look forward to getting

a bag of poppycock from my aunt.” That and the many homemade sweets and chocolates made during this time are what Calkins really enjoys.

FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS MEMORYNot a lot of people realize it but

Calkins’ birthday is also Christmas Day. When he was 20-years-old the whole family went on a Christmas vacation to Los Angeles and toured the many theme parks.

“It really was the holiday we had as a family.”

FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS ACTIVITY

Spending time with his family and attending a midnight service. Calkins said his wife introduced him to Polish midnight services and he has always enjoyed them.

LACOMBE-PONOKA MLA ROD FOX

FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS FOODFor MLA Rod Fox ham is

his food of choice for the Christ-mas season.

FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS MEMORY

He enjoys being with family every year to cook the Christ-mas dinner for everyone.


While cooking for the fam-ily brings good memories, his favourite activity is being with family.

“For MLA Rod Fox ham is his food of choice for the Christmas season.”

TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH

5501 - 54 Avenue 403.783.4141

December 21Sunday School Presentation 10:30 am

December 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Services

4:00 pm & 7:00 pm

December 25No Service

December 28Carols Service 10:30 am

trinityponoka.ca

PONOKA UNITED CHURCH

5020 - 52 Avenue 403.783.4087

Sunday, December 21Blue Christmas Service 4:00 pm

at St. Mary’s Anglican Church

Wednesday, December 24Candlelight Communion 7:00 pm

Sunday, December 28Carols and Cocoa 10:00 am

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Readers Drama & Carols 7:00 pmDec. 25 Christmas Day Program 10:30 am

CHURCH OF THE OPEN BIBLE3704 42 St. 403-783-6500

Friday, December 19 Christmas Program at 7:00 pm

“THE GIFT” that set a prisoner free!

Sunday, December 21 Regular Service 11:00 am

Wednesday, December 24 Christmas Eve Service at 6:30 pm

May your Christmas & New Year be fi lled with God’s many blessings!

ST. MARY’SANGLICAN CHURCH

5120 - 49 Ave. 403-783-4329www.stmarysanglicanponoka.com

Sunday, December 14A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols 10:00 am

Sunday, December 21Holy Eucharist 10:00 am

A Blue Christmas Service 4:00 pm with the United ChurchWednesday, December 24

Christingle Family Service 6:30 pmService of Holy Eucharist 11:00 pm

Thursday, December 25Christmas Day Holy Eucharist Service – 10:00 am

God’s Peace this Christmas and throughout 2015.

ST. AUGUSTINE CATHOLIC CHURCH

5113, 52 Ave. 403.783.4048

December 24Christmas Eve Mass 5:00 pm

December 25Christmas Day Mass 9:00 am

January 1, 2015New Year’s Day Mass 9:00 am

Come Celebrate the Birth of Christ. Everyone Welcome!

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

5109 - 57 Ave. 403.783.5533

www.fbcponoka.orgCome Celebrate With Us!

Christmas Eve ServiceDecember 24, 6:30 pm

PARKLAND REFORM CHURCH

South on Hwy 2A, West on Spruce Road. 403-783-1888

December 25 Christmas Service 10:00 am

December 31New Year’s Eve Service 7:30 pm

January 1, 2015New Year’s Day Service 10:00 am

Corner of Hwy 2A & Hwy 53 403.783.5659

Sunday, December 21 “Christmas for Everyone” 10:30 am

Community Church & Christmas Party (sleigh rides, Xmas movie, visit from Santa)

Wednesday, December 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service

6:00 pm

Wednesday, December 31 Family Skating Party at Arena (Free) 7:00-9:00 pm


Thank you for the opportunity Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and our community to serve you and our community and hope to see you again in the and hope to see you again in the

year to come.year to come.

We give you our best wishes for We give you our best wishes for a happy and safe holiday season.a happy and safe holiday season.

www.legacyfordponoka.ca

Blessings of the season and sincere thanks to our many kind

neighbors this holiday season.

JoyLoveHope

Peace

PONOKA CO-OP OILSQUALITY PETROLEUM PRODUCTS

4700 HWY 2A 403-783-4288

We have much

to be grateful for,

including your friendship

and goodwill.

CRAWFORD CRAWFORD AGENCIESAGENCIES

Rejoice!Rejoice!

5023 51 Ave • 403-783-4033crawfordagencies.ca


WOLF CREEK PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD CHAIR

TRUDY BRATLAND

FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS FOOD“My favorite holiday food

is the Norwegian baking that my grandmothers and mother prepared prior to Christmas. Now my sister, her daugh-ters and I have taken on those activities.

Most popular are rosettes, krumkake and lefsa. We are of Norwegian heritage and that has been woven into our lives so as a result, our children now appreci-ate those treats.

My husband’s family is also of Norwegian heritage so many of the foods and traditions are observed when we all get to-

gether. Especially opening our gifts on Christmas Eve.”

FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS MEMORY

For her favorite memory Bratland recalls a collage of times spent with family and friends, remembering loved ones no longer around for the holidays and thinks about those moments that make all the time and preparation worthwhile. “Sometimes we just hit it right and that is such a wonderful feeling!”

FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS ACTIVITY“My favorite holiday activ-

ity is the combination of all of the activities and preparations that go into making Christmas the memorable time that it is. Decorating the tree has been a favorite pastime for me as I have collected decorations over the years since my first Christmas with my husband when we used bows from our wedding pres-ents.

Decorations made by lit-tle hands are also a treasure! The advent season sermons at Church are a great reminder of what the Christmas season is all about and help to ground me when needed! Spending time with friends and family and singing Christmas carols round off my list.”

The Christmas trifectaPonoka News asked our elected offi cials three questions related to the Christmas Season

COUNTY REEVE PAUL MCLAUCHLIN

FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS FOOD

“Turkey. I love the smell of it, I

love the nap that it induces and I love to sit around the table with my fam-ily surrounding it.”

FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS MEMORYWhen he was a young boy, Santa

brought him a special toy, the Mil-lennium Falcon from Star Wars. Now McLaughlin likes seeing the happy faces of his own family on Christmas morning.


McLauchlin likes to spend the holidays outdoors with his children, towing them behind the snowmobile in a calf sled. It is an activity they have shared since the children were babies and he says they are now as big as the calves it is meant for.

“Turkey. I love the smell of it, I love the nap that it induces.”s.

County Reeve Paul McLauchlin

It’s been a pleasure serving you this year. Thanks!

Greetingsof the

Season

6707 Hwy 53 403-783-3644

Ponoka

Wishing you and your family every happiness this holiday season.

Best wishes for the New Year.

Rod Fox, MLALacombe - Ponoka#101 4892 46 Street, Lacombe, AB

403-782-7725

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MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS!CHRISTMAS!

[email protected]@assembly.ab.ca


Piper Dean and her mother Renee Dean check out the goodies at the Ponoka and District Chamber of Commerce’s Children’s Shopping Party, held at St. Augustine School on Saturday Dec. 6.


We appreciate your support this past year and look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in 2015

5020 - 50 Street, Ponoka • 403.790.2878 Email: [email protected] www.bustedlingerie.ca

Best Little Lingerie Shop in Central Alberta

With Best Wishes With Best Wishes For A Merry Christmas For A Merry Christmas

And A Happy New YearAnd A Happy New YearFrom All Of Us To All Of YouFrom All Of Us To All Of You

6701-44 Ave Ponoka, AB 403-783-6037

Toll Free 1-877-783-6020

May you enjoy the May you enjoy the Yuletide season

We have truly valued your support this year

CHRISTMAS IS HERE! Th e perfect time for joy, love & togetherness and to say We are proud to serve you!

6305 - 48 Ave. 403-783-5555

TOWN & COUNTRYSUPPLIES LTD.

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HAPPYHOLIDAYS

From OurHouse to Yours!

For your continued

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5503 54 Street • 403-783-6804

And Tread Pro Tire Centre

We are sending you our Best Holiday Wishes! along

with our thanks for your valued business


The Willan Choral performed a number of holiday songs at the St. Augustine Catholic Church on Sunday, Dec. 7. Photo by Amelia Naismith

MATT SEALYCHURCH

OF THE OPEN BIBLE

If there is a single word that describes what Christmas is all about, it’s the little word “joy.” Sev-eral of our favorite carols mention it: “Joy to the world, the Lord is come,” “O come all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant.”

Where does Christmas joy come from?

The angels told the shepherds of “good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day…a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

What is this “good news of great joy?”

God loved us enough to send his only begotten Son. This is the heart of Christmas. He came for you.

This is where Christmas becomes deeply personal. You can never be saved until you say, “Christ came for me. He died for me. He rose from

the dead for me.” Do you believe that? Two thou-

sand years ago God sent a gift wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.

Jesus is God’s Christmas gift to you. But you will never experience Christmas joy until you personally receive God’s gift—the Lord Jesus Christ. Joy to the world, the Lord came for you.

Christmas Joy

May the holiday May the holiday season fi ll you season fi ll you with happiness.with happiness.Thank you for Thank you for making 2014 a making 2014 a

great year for us!great year for us!

mackenzie’s


BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE AND AMELIA NAISMITH

Making the rounds at many of the holi-day markets this season are home crafters who have put their heart and soul into their product that will cheer the hearts of any gift recipient.

Three crafters took some time to speak to Ponoka News to share the love of what they do. First up is Tami Robinson who sells homemade skin care products.

She has been operating under the name Healing Colors Skincare for the past year after developing an interest in natural reme-dies. Robinson says recent illnesses forced

her to consider other options for her health and since then she has developed recipes for skin care, aroma therapy, cold and flu care sprays and other products.

“I worked with a lady who developed the recipes . . . I bought the recipes and took them out to the public,” said Robinson.

Those recipes have developed over time and Robinson is pleased with the products she offers. Rather than rely on suppliers for the base product, Robinson has developed her own.

“I like it better because I control every-thing that’s in the product,” she explained.

Being able to tell customers exactly what’s in her products is a big source of pride for Robinson, who knows ev-ery ingredient that goes into making her creams and other products.

“It’s great for everybody that’s look-ing for a healthier way to look after your body,” she said.

Improving her products is something that occurs on a daily basis. Robinson has since improved upon original reci-pes and she says she wants to further her understanding of aromatherapy and to also gain a deeper knowledge of carrier oils such as avocado oil and grape seed oil.

She feels it is important for consum-ers to understand the products they buy and put on their skin.

“Your skin will absorb faster than what you’re putting in your stomach,”

she said. For more information call Robinson at

403-741-7011.

HANDMADE JEWELRY WEAR-ABLE FOR ANY OCCASION

For the last two years, Nancy Jeffery has been travelling to Farmer’s Markets in central Alberta under the moniker of Orna-mentation by Nancy.

Her journey as a jewelry maker started

with a piece of magnetic jewelry she had that kept falling off.

“Because it kept falling off I thought, ‘I could do better.’ And I could!” said Jeffery.

Starting with magnetic jewelry, Jeffery began to develop a line of other products made with stainless steel or aluminum and Swarovski crystals and Czech glass.

“It’s not heavy, so it’s actually some-thing you can put on at the start of the day,” explained Jeffery. continued on page 18.

Shoppers can fi nd ideal gifts from home crafters

ofercr

inb

thhpuaoo

ea

Flannel Grannies sell colourful, home-knitted flannel items. Here Lila Reynolds shows off some of her work. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

Mirjam Feitsma’s handmade holiday

crafts

Let us be your home away from home this holiday season. Stay with us and visit your family in comfort.

Take advantage of this offer when you book your stay from December 24st to December 31st, 2014.

You don’t have to choose between comfort and joy this holiday season. We have roomy, cozy beds waiting for you, often just a few minutes drive away from your family’s home. Canalta Hotels is your holiday home away from home, and we wish you and your family the very best this holiday season. Call 1-888-704-1122 to book your stay.

$79.99 Per night/ single occupancy

ALLEN B. OLSONAUCTION SERVICE LTD.

RIMBEY, ALBERTA

403-843-2747www.allenolsonauction.com

A Note Of ThanksA Note Of ThanksAt The Holiday SeasonAt The Holiday Season

In times like these, we are especially grateful for the loyalty and support of people like you, and would

like to express our best wishes for a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year to each of you.

Please accept our best wishes for a very Merry Christmas and a healthy

and prosperous New Year.

We feel truly honored to serve this community and appreciate your trust in us.

Ponoka Funeral Home

5115 - 50 Ave. 5115 - 50 Ave.

403-783-3122403-783-3122

~ A Wombold Family Funeral Home ~

Holiday GreetingsHoliday GreetingsFrom Our Family To YoursFrom Our Family To Yours


continued from page 17.She wants her customers to be able to wear her

jewelry all day long without feeling discomfort. Reactions have been positive for what she calls her “unique and wearable” jewelry.

Jeffery offers bracelets, necklaces, anklets and other decorations for the home. “I’m just trying to put together what people want.”

To do that Jeffery pays attention to trends and the colours that are in style. She says she’s a regular participant at the Ponoka Farmer’s Market and will have a table in the summer.

For more information check Ornamentation by Nancy on Facebook.

FROM PINTEREST TO PONOKAAfter stumbling across the idea for a homemade

frame on Pinterest, a woman and her family took their crafty abilities to the Ponoka market.

“It started with frames and turned into a whole lot more,” said Mirjan Feitsma. “I do it together with mom and sister,” she added.

At the market the woman were selling a pletho-ra of homemade frames and knickknacks. “I like a variety . . . I like making old stuff look new again,” said Feitsma.

Since browsing Pinterest became a mainstream phenomenon, people have been using it to inspire themselves for any holiday. “It gives you almost too many ideas, that’s why we had to start selling some,” said Feitsma.

Feitsma is most inspired by the Christmas sea-son and hopes to bring her talent back to the market next year, as this was her first time involved.

Tami Robinson sells an entire line of creams, sprays and aroma-therapy natural products that she makes with her own recipes.


Handmade jewelry items are also a popular item for holiday gifts. Here Nancy Jeffery shows off one of her beautiful necklaces.


Wishing you

a season that’s merry and bright

For your patronage, we are sincerely grateful.

Greetings from:

PONOKA BOTTLE DEPOT5520 Hwy 2A • 403.783.6875

PONOKA CAPITOL THEATRE4904 50 Street • 403.783.3639

A Very Merry Christmas to You!A Very Merry Christmas to You!

5033 - 49 Ave.403.783.6210

We thank you for your patronage and wish you and your loved ones the very best the season has to offer.

Rose, Stan & Gina

We thank our We thank our customers for a customers for a

fantastic year and fantastic year and wish everyone a wish everyone a safe and happy safe and happy holiday season!holiday season!

UPSTAIRS • 5014 - 51 AVE403-783.2926

Noreen, Diane, Sherry Kristy & Nola

With warm wishes to our many supporters this holiday season.

DUNC’S SEPTIC TANK SERVICES LTD.403-783-3135 Ponoka

We wish you a

Merry

Christmas

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We wish you a

Merry

Christmas


Christmas celebrants realize that the holiday season does not end on December 26 or even January 2. For many people, Christmas and New Year’s Eve are merely a prelude to the real celebration to come on Three Kings Day.

Three Kings Day, or Día de los Très Reyes, is celebrated on January 6 to honor the wise men who visited and brought gifts to Jesus Christ. Also known as the Epiph-any, the holiday marks the end of the Christmas season for many practicing Christians.

Very little is known about the kings, or magi. These kings, who are only mentioned once in the Gospel of Matthew, are never named. The story says they hail from the “east” and are guided to the manger by a mysterious light in the sky. They begin a journey to bring gold, frankincense and myrrh to the newborn king. Unbeknownst to many, the popular song “The 12 Days of Christmas” actually marks the 12 days following Christmas, ending on the Feast of the Epiphany, and not the 12 days preceding Christmas Day.

Many traditions are associated with the Epiphany. Celebrants in Mexico serve Rosca de Reyes, an

oval-shaped cake that symbolizes a crown. The cake has a small doll inside that rep-

resents baby Jesus and the hiding of Jesus from King Herod’s troops.

Herod ordered his soldiers to seek out and murder all male infants born in Bethlehem in retaliation of the prophecy that a messiah would come and become the new King of Jerusalem.

Roscas can be made with dried and candied fruits to symbolize the jewels that adorn real crowns. Whoever receives the plastic doll in his or her slice of cake is expected to throw a party on Diá de la Can-delaria (Candlemas Day), which occurs each year on February 2.

Unlike in the United States, where gifts are typically exchanged on Christmas Day, much of the Latin community exchange gifts on the eve of January 6. Puerto Rican children have been known to gather grass or straw in shoeboxes for the kings’ horses or camels. Some fam-ilies display carvings and artwork of the three magi atop camels.

Many celebrants participate in Three Kings Day parades and festi-vals. Family gatherings and parties that would rival other special holi-days are common as well. A special meal consisting of corn tamales and hot chocolate may be served, while others may enjoy black beans, pica-dillo and yucca.

Traditions of Three Kings Day WHO WERE THE KINGS?

While the Bible does not indi-cate how many kings visited Jesus on the Epiphany, based on the number of gifts offered, historians believe there were three. Histori-ans and theologians believe these kings were Babylonians, Persians or Jews from Yemen.

In the Western Christian church, the kings go by the names of Melchior (a Persian scholar), Caspar (an Indian scholar) and Balthazar (an Arabian scholar).

The kings also were said to have distinct physical characteris-tics. Caspar, who brought the gift of gold, was the oldest and sport-ed a long, white beard.

Middle-aged Melchior bro-ught the gift of frankincense, while Balthazar, who brought myrrh, is believed to have been a dark-skinned young man around the age of 20.

B20 PONOKA NEWS Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014 Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014 PONOKA NEWS B21Seasons Greetings Seasons Greetings

5012 - 50 Ave. Ponoka, AB, T4J 1R5

403-783-3976

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

We want to wish all our customersa heartfelt Merry Christmasand a very Blessed New Year!

We are grateful for your patronage and loyalty over the last year and are always

striving for better ways to serve you. As we celebrate the birth of our Savior we hope

your homes will be fi lled with Peaceand Love this Christmas season

and throughout 2015.

Jim, Norlyn, Vern, Daneel, Todd, Josh,Larry, Alix and Elsbeth

5027 - 51 Ave • 403-783-4000

“Better Th an Good”BOB RONNIE CATERING

403-783-6860 Bay 5, 4110 64 St.www.bobronniecatering.com

With Our ThanksWe appreciate your business all year long. Happy Holiday!


JEREL PETERSAREA DIRECTOR

CENTRAL ALBERTA YOUTH UNLIMITED

I had a unique ex-perience preparing for Christmas this year in one of the programs Youth Unlimited of-fers teens in Ponoka. We examined a “pic-ture of Jesus” that was originally painted in the 1600s by artist Francisco de Zurbaran, titled Agnus Dei. The words Agnus Dei mean, “Lamb of God,” and the image is quite literally a lamb that is bound for slaughter. You can see the image yourself here: http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/picture/2012/apr/02/francisco-de-zurbaran-agnus-dei

What struck us was the humility and seeming helplessness of the lamb and the representation that it is of Je-sus Christ. Isaiah 53:7 (NLT) says,

“He was oppressed and treated harshly, yet he never said a word. He was led like a lamb to the slaugh-ter. And as a sheep is silent before the shear-ers, he did not open his mouth.”

Christmas reminds us of the birth of Jesus

Christ. The God of the Universe almost appears weak … born into our world as a helpless baby and later willingly allowing himself to be killed as payment for crimes he never committed.

As I looked at the image of a lamb tied up, soon to be slaughtered, I realized it was not weakness that took Christ to the cross on my behalf and yours … it was humility, love, hope, peace, joy, mercy, and grace. Merry Christmas.

Humble Hope

LAW GROUPPonoka - Rimbey - Wetaskiwin - Camrose

www.sirrsllp.com

With You In Mind at ChristmastimeWith our gratitude to you for your goodwill towards us this past year. Have a happy holiday!

Miles A. M. Cymbaluk, Q.C.

Richard S. Gregory

William J. Kidd, Q.C.

Joshua Mohr

Richard D. Wyrozub

As Visions ofSugarplums Dance

in\ Our Heads—

Custom Custom CateringCatering

Baked Goods Baked Goods & Deli& Deli

5026 51 Ave 403-783-2285theraspberrypatch@platinum.cawww.theraspberrypatch.ab.ca

We’d like to acknowledge all thefolks who have helped to make this

past year a sweet one for us.

Happy Holidays and heartfelt thanks!

Have a Very

Wishing you and loved ones much

peace, harmony, joy and contentment

this holiday season. Thank you for your

friendship and support.

Christmas!

Tel: 403-783-6140 Fax: 403-704-1708

www.morskatemanufacturing.com

Merry


Every Christmas Eve, children go to bed eagerly antic-ipating a visit from Santa Claus. This merry gentleman is pur-ported to visit the home of every good girl and boy, delivering gifts and cheer along the way.

Before the modern evolution of Santa Claus lived a very real

and generous individual named Nicholas. In the third century, Nicholas served as the Bishop of Myrna in present-day Turkey. He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, believing that giving should be done secretly and sac-rificially in Jesus Christ’s name rather than one’s own.

Stories tell of Nicholas pay-ing the dowry for poor daughters to enable them to get married. He reportedly put coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him. It is believed Nicholas helped to restore the hope of hundreds of people in his com-munity, making him a beloved

Santa: The man behind the beard and revered Bishop. Throughout his ministry, Nicholas fervently shared his life and fortune with others.

Nicholas continued to be revered and commemorated by many Chris-tians even after his death. His charity and unselfish works helped inspire generations of the faithful, and he eventually was named the patron saint of everyone from merchants to sailors to pawnbrokers.

No one really knows what St. Nicholas looked like. But in 2005, a forensic laboratory in England reviewed historical data and pho-tographs of the remains taken from St. Nicholas’ grave in the 1950s. Researchers concluded that he was a small man, perhaps no more than five feet in height, with a broken nose.

This image certainly does not fit with the robust frame and other im-agery awarded St. Nicholas in more modern years. St. Nicholas is be-lieved to be the inspiration for Santa Claus, which was a name taken from the Dutch Sinterklaas, a contracted

form of Sint Nicolass, or St. Nicho-las.

Tales of the real St. Nicholas’ giving spirit were blended with a fictional personification by New York-based newspaper writers who blended the St. Nicholas name with the appearance of a Dutch town citizen. The goal was to reach out to the primarily Dutch immigrants living in New York at the time. This jolly elf image was given a boost by the publication of “A Visit From St. Nicholas,” which was published around the same time.

Eventually, the merry Santa Claus portrayal began to outshine the more accurate St. Nicholas ver-sion as a religious man, fostered by political drawings and caricatures that depicted Santa as a chubby sort in a red suit. That image prevails to this day.

Beneath the Christmas sym-bolism, the beard and the presents associated with Santa Claus lies a tale of generosity that originated with St. Nicholas.

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Merry Christmas!

To all of those who have To all of those who have passed by this way,passed by this way,

Go our very best wishes Go our very best wishes for a bright holiday –for a bright holiday –

For your support and For your support and goodwill too, goodwill too,

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BY AMELIA NAISMITH

For yet another year, CP Rail’s Holiday Train and the holiday spirit it brought to town have gen-erously benefited Ponoka Food Bank Association.

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train present-ed food bank executive director Dean Hill with a cheque for $4,000 in between musical perfor-

Community donates more than 1,000 pounds to Ponoka Food Bank

CP Holiday Train arrives: Tim and Oakley Townend watch on as the CP Holiday Train arrives Monday, Dec. 8. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

mances and 1,059 pounds of food were collected on the occasion of the train’s Christmas season visit.

“That will certainly stock up our shelves. We won’t be short of food for those who are in need,” said Hill.

With the money donated from CP Rail, the Food Bank Association is taking on a new task. “We’re taking on a chal-lenge with them, it’s healthy initiatives. And we do that anyway, it’s all healthy food,” said Dean.

During the holiday season, there is less pressure on the food bank resources

because the enthusiasm to give back is so high. Hill says the large amounts of food donated these days will be able to carry the food bank through the early months of 2015 after the holiday spirit vanishes.

The Lions Club was also in atten-dance, collecting donations from the public. The amount was not available by press time.

“How blessed we are in this commu-nity that people are as giving as they are,” said Hill.

“Ponoka and area for years have been strong supporters of the food bank. We’ve

just got a real supportive community,” he added.

Each month, the food bank supplies 30 to 40 food hampers to the community. “But there’s many more people who come in . . . there’s a free area out front.”

Along with the community and CP Rail, Hill was thankful to the other peo-ple and organizations who supported the event, including but not limited to the Town of Ponoka, the Ponoka Fire De-partment, Bob and Company Catering, as well as Santa Claus.

403-783-2199#1, 6602 41 Ave

(South Industrial Park)Ponoka, AB

6108 61 st StreetPonoka, ABT4J [email protected]

We would like to thank you We would like to thank you for your patronage and look for your patronage and look

forward to 2015.forward to 2015.


Dean Hill, execu-tive director of the Ponoka Food Bank Association, along with Ponoka mayor Rick Bonnett are pre-sented with a cheque for $4,000 during the CP Rail Holiday Train’s visit to town.Photo by Amelia Naismith

May you rejoice in the blessing of His love this

Christmas season

STAR Catholic Schools4906 - 50 Ave., Leduc, Alberta T9E 6W9Toll Free: 1.800.583.0688Phone: 780.986.2500www.starcatholic.ab.ca Follow us on Facebook at:

www.facebook.com/PPQSPONOKA

From Don, Lynn & staff

Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

5101-51 Ave. Ponoka, AB403-704-1600

We will be closed Dec. 24, 2014 to Jan. 6, 2015

Thirsk AutomotiveDistributors Ltd.

6603 - 44 Ave.Ponoka

403-783-2921

Merry Merry Christmas Christmas

to allto all and to all and to all

a good night!a good night!


CP Holiday Train arrives: Families cuddle together in the cold weather to watch entertainment from the CP Rail Holiday Train Monday, Dec. 8. Entertainers brought music and jokes to the event. Here is a view from the train looking out on the large crowd of fans. Photo by Jeffrey Heyden-Kaye

With so much on our plates between Thanks-giving and New Year’s Day, the holiday season can be hectic. Fortunately, there are many ways to save time and make the holiday season more manage-able.

· If you don’t have plastic clips to hang lights around windows and to the eaves of your home, inexpensive clothespins will work just as well. If you’re concerned about the color of the wooden clips, paint them holiday hues before stringing the lights.

· Put a bath mat, rug-side down and rubber-side up, beneath your Christmas tree stand. This allows you to spin the tree as you hang lights and orna-ments without damaging the floor underneath. It also makes it simple to undress the tree once the season is over. Use a tree skirt to hide the mat.

· Squeeze artificial tree portions into concrete form tubes. First wrap the tree portions in twine and then slip them into the concrete sleeves. Each tube can be stowed in attic or garage rafters, freeing up precious space.

· Use empty squirt bottles to make baking and cooking easier. Pancake and cookie batters can be squirted from the containers for less mess.

· Store one or two strings of lights in a plastic shopping bag to keep the strands from getting tangled. Hang the bags from a hook in a garage or stack them in a stor-age bin.

· Use plastic zip ties to attach garland and lights to bannisters. They’re easy to assem-ble and will not damage the bannisters.

· A paper towel holder can be screwed to the wall in a craft room to neatly hold spools of ribbon. Sim-ply pull the length you need from the spool and cut for easy decorating.

· Mount a tree stand to a piece of wood with screws or glue. This prevents spills from reaching the floor while stabilizing the tree.

· Old maps make interesting gift wrap and are a nice change of pace from commer-cially produced paper or newsprint.

· Wrap duct tape or another type of sticky tape around your hand. Pat over fallen pine needles that accumulate around the tree. In hard-to-reach areas, wrap the tape around a broom or a floor sweeper.

· When traveling for the holidays, use a brightly colored suit-case or flashy tape to make your suitcase stand out from others at the airport.

· Place hardened brown sugar in a bak-ing dish, cover it with a

moist paper towel and either microwave it on high for 20-second intervals or place it in a 300 F oven for five minutes. This will soften the sugar, making it easier to use the sugar to prepare your favorite holiday cookie recipes.

· Save plastic bread ties, which can be used to make tags for the wires on certain devices. Such ties also can be used to organize decorating compo-nents and to keep your place on a roll of tape.

· Measure the inside of your picture window and construct a wooden frame to its dimensions. Staple holiday lights to the frame and then easily slip the frame in and out of place each year.

· Hang a live wreath or some boughs of ever-green in your home to give it that fresh pine scent if you have an artificial tree.

· Color-code storage containers so you can easi-ly find holiday decorations in the attic or basement.

· Pack for a holiday excursion using a col-lapsible clothing storage hanger for closets. Fold clothes on each fabric shelf and then collapse it into your suitcase. When you get to your destina-tion, unfold and hang it in a closet so all of your clothes will be at the ready.

Make the holidays even more enjoyable with a variety of timesavers and clever tips.

There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays!

Th ere’s just no place we’d rather be,At Christmas than with all of thee;For your smiles and winning attitudeFill us with much gratitude;May many blessings come your way As we celebrate the holiday,And to all our friends both far and near,We hope to see you all next year!

403-783-7333 • After Hours: 403-783-0093#20, 5011 48 Ave

“Promoting Your Health”™

Holiday Hours:Dec 24 9 am - 2 pmDec 25 & 26 ClosedDec. 31 9 am - NoonJan. 1, 2015 Closed

HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS

and A HAPPY NEW YEAR

From the Staff and Board of Direct ors of

Ponoka Ag Event Centre Societ y


A few simple strategies can help you save time and reduce stress this holiday season.

Holiday living made easyTips on a wide range of holiday chores

With tidings of comfort and joy to our neighbours, customers, and friends.

We offer our warm wishes for the best holiday season!

Thank you for choosing us!

Committed To Your ComfortCommitted To Your Comfort

RESIDENTIAL - COMMERCIALRESIDENTIAL - COMMERCIAL• Heating • Ventilation • Air Conditioning Systems

• Custom Metal Fabrication

Phone 403.782.77224816 - 45A Street • Lacombe, AB

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICEPREMIER DEALER

McDonald’s Restaurant4419 - Hwy 2A • 403-783-8927

& Happy New Year

Peace, Joy,Peace, Joy,Harmony T hanks!

4502 - 50 ST. PONOKA403-783-5568

HOLIDAY HOURSDecember 21 12 pm - 5 pmDecember 22 9 am - 9 pmDecember 23 9 am - 9 pmDecember 24 8 am - 6 pmDecember 25 CLOSEDDecember 26 12 pm - 5 pmDecember 31 9 am - 6 pmJanuary 1, 2015 12 pm - 5 pm


The holiday season is meant to be enjoyed with family and friends, but not everyone can make it home to see their loved ones on the holidays. Commitments to work or school prevent some people from head-ing home for the holidays, and such situations often inspire feelings of homesickness.

Holiday homesickness may not fully hit some people until the day of the holiday, when people sepa-rated from their families miss both the company of their relatives and the holiday traditions they have en-joyed since childhood. But there are several ways to conquer holiday homesickness so you can still enjoy this festive time of year.

· Make technology work for you. Though you might not be able to sit at the holiday dinner table with your family this holiday season, that does not mean you still can’t lay your eyes on your those closest to you. Arrange to video chat with family members sometime during the holiday. If

you’re shipping gifts home, ask your family members to open their gifts during your video chatting session so you can see the reactions on their faces when they open their presents. This can allow you to enjoy the thrill of seeing a loved one open the per-fect present, even if you happen to be thousands of miles away as he or she tears off the wrapping paper.

· Volunteer in your community. Another way to combat holiday homesickness is to volunteer in your community. Knowing you’re doing your part to make someone else’s holiday special can make it easier for you to be away from family on the holiday.

How to handle holiday homesickness Whether you feed the home-

less at a local shelter, distribute toys at a nearby children’s hos-pital or visit an assisted living facility and spend time with an equally homesick elderly per-son, putting a smile on someone else’s face is sure to put a smile on your own face as well.

· Stay true to traditions. If your family adheres to certain traditions every holiday, then do your best to maintain those tradi-tions. Watch that holiday movie

your family always watches or cook that special dish you only enjoy during the holiday season and invite your friends who also won’t be leaving town to join in the fun.

· Participate in community events. Loneliness on the holi-day can contribute to feelings of homesickness, so make an ef-fort to celebrate the holiday with your community.

Many communities host spe-cial holiday events, be it tree

lighting ceremonies, parades or local theater performances of classics such as Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol. Participate in these events, which can lift your holiday spirit and ensure you aren’t spending the holiday alone at home.

Holiday homesickness can be a tough pill to swallow, but there are many ways for men and women to enjoy the holi-days even if they won’t be able to see their families.

“Ask your family members to open their

gifts during a video chatting session so you

can see the reactions on their faces.”

Ponoka Dental Centre403-783-5844

Here’s hoping the holiday season Here’s hoping the holiday season contains it all!contains it all!

With gratitude fr om all of us.With gratitude fr om all of us.

,Joy,yyyyoyJoyJoyoyy,y,y,y,yyyyyyyyJJoJoJJoJoJoJoJJoyJoyJLaughterLaughterghterughtergghterrhtehtertertererererererererhthththttetettetet rrererererhhhthugugugugghggghgggg rrPeacececceJoyJoyyJoyJ yoyJJJJJJJJoJJJoL htL hthtttthhhhhhhhhhhhhthththtLLovL JJJJP JJJ

It’s been a pleasure serving you this year. Thanks!

GreetingsGreetingsof the

SeasonSeason

6707 Hwy 53 403-783-3644

Ponoka

A Wish For Youat the Holidays

PONOKA CABINET MAKERS

6602 - 42 Ave.403-783-4319

In this season of hopes and

dreams, it is our hope that all your dreams

come true this year.

For helping us to realize ours,

we offer you our heartfelt

gratitude.


ROB MC ARTHURWORD OF LIFE CHURCH

There’s a scene from the movie “Tal-ladega Nights: The ballad of Ricky Bobby” that makes me laugh. Will Farrell’s character Ricky Bobby has his family gathered for din-ner and begins grace by thanking “Dear Lord Baby Jesus”.

During his prayer he is inter-rupted by his wife who insists that he doesn’t need to go on addressing Jesus as a baby because Jesus did grow up.

A comical argument ensues as Ricky explains how he likes the “Christmas Jesus” best.

Who doesn’t like Christmas Je-sus? It is really easy to allow Baby

Jesus to become your Christmas picture of who Christ is.

Christmas carols and nativity scenes paint the picture vivid-ly: Jesus is a baby!

But the Bible tells us that he is so much more. In Colossians, it tells us “Jesus is the visible image of the in-

visible God”. If you want to know what God looks like, look to Jesus.

It goes on to explain that Christ is the prevalent Lord & Master of our universe. Jesus wasn’t just a baby, he was almighty God in the flesh.

This Christmas, remember that Jesus wasn’t just a baby in a manger, but he was and is a conquering hero who is more than able to meet your greatest need

Blue Christmas provides fellowship to mourners

BY JEFFREY HEYDEN-KAYE

For most people Christmas is a time to be with family and friends but there are some who dread this time of year.

To help people deal with personal strife a Blue Christmas has been organized by St. Mary’s An-glican Church and the United Church. Pastor of the United Church, Beatrix Schirner, says this time of year is not always a happy one.

“There’s all kinds of reasons to be sad at this time of year,” said Schirner.

She says a person may have to deal with the loss of a family member, or an illness or even

the loss of a job and being part of the holiday festivities is difficult. To give those a chance to re-member and mourn a Blue Christmas will be held at St. Mary’s Church on Sunday, Dec. 21 at 4 p.m.

The service is usually 30 minutes and it gives folks a chance to slow down and think.

“It’s really just lessons, a couple of hymns. The important part of it is just lighting the can-dles,” she said.

“I think there’s a lot more people who could use it and don’t but it’s definitely ecumenical; any-one of any faith can come,” Schriner added.

Reverend Donna Willer, of St. Mary’s will host the service with Schirner.

Jesus was God in flesh

With a string of glad tidings to our customers, neighbors, and friends at

this joyous time of year.

It’s been a privilege and a pleasure serving you and we look forward to your continued support!

403-783-2596

Merry Christmas!

Bay 6, 4502 50 Street

Cindy’s

HOW SWEET HOW SWEET IT IS...IT IS...To serve people To serve people like you! like you! Merry Christmas!Merry Christmas!

Restaurant & Loungegg5122-50 St • 403-783-55665122-50 St • 403-783-5566

6706 - 44 Ave. Ponoka Industrial Park

Happy Holidays!Happy Holidays!

403-783-3900

Wishing you a jolly good timeWishing you a jolly good timewhatever you do.whatever you do.

It’s been our pleasure serving you.It’s been our pleasure serving you.Management and Staff


The Ponoka Kinsmen hosted their annual Carol Festival at the United Church Monday, Dec. 8 with a young Brynn Cline, who got all dressed up to sing Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer with Kinsmen and family.


Then all the reindeer loved him!

A special greeting at Christmas timeto express to you our sincere appreciation

for your confi dence and loyalty.

We are deeply thankful and extend to youour best wishes for a happy and healthy

holiday season.

SandraBroker

TylerAssociate

CorinneAdministration

ChanelleAssistant

A i l i Ch i i

From all of us at From all of us at First Choice Realty (Ponoka) Ltd.First Choice Realty (Ponoka) Ltd.

3, 5012 - 48 Avenue • 403.783.8881

GRATEFULLY THANKSDirector: Kevin Ferguson

Musical Director: Althea LewisThe actors and musicians who spent countless hours rehearsing

The costumers, sets and props people, decorating crews, sound and light crews and the administration staff.

Citizens of the Town and County of Ponoka and surrounding communities for exceptional and ongoing support.

We are privileged to acknowledge the following businesses for their commitment and generosity.

Special Recognition goes to the Congregation of the Ponoka United Church for once again sharing the Church Sanctuary during the

Festive Season.

nne oooofffff

KLAGLAHACHIE FINE ARTS SOCIETY

Special Recognition goes to the CongregationChurch for once again sharing the Church S

Festive Season.

osity.o

of the Ponoka UnitedSanctuary during thenS

Ponoka Professional Pharmacy – Jamil Rawji

Lawrence Hrycan – Sun Life Financial

CD Industrial Group Inc. Flowers For YouHamilton’s IGA

Ponoka Co-op OilsQuality Paint & Collison Repair

2009 Ltd.Sunny ’94 – Melodie HelmSusan Chantal PhotographyStrand Media CorporationBob Ronnie Catering


The Wisemen

The rich caravan from the East slowed on the hillside before Jerusa-lem. The wise men carried treasure boxes of precious gifts wrapped with strong cords the color of sunrise. They marveled at the golden sight of the Glorious Temple rising about the walls of the city. Surely this must be the Temple of a great King.

They would pay their respects and press on until the miraculous STAR they were following finally stopped.

They rejoiced and sang Psalms of ascent, “Our feet are standing within your gates O Jerusalem,” sensing that their journey to find the King of the Jews was almost completed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~How do you know it was His star?

Did you have ancient prophets’ scrolls to study?

Were you perhaps Jews,descendants of Queen Esther’s

people,those who sat weeping and hung

their harpsin the willow trees?

Did they stay behind when Ezra and Nehemiah

led the return to Jerusalem?After the first Purim celebration

was business very good in Babylon?Did you debate what Isaiah meant

when he wrote thatA Virgin shall bear a Son,

and ponder how to find Bethlehem in Judea

where Micah had spoken of the birthplace?

Did you nightly search the black-tented desert skies for

The Star that would arise out of Jacob?

There was no more wondering.Suddenly out of the pit of night,

radiance rose,brilliance beyond measure. Without

mistake,this was a supernatural star, indeed,

The Daystar.Friends called you foolish.

Hastily packing for an arduous journey.

preparing gifts for an Infant King,a mission without precedent.

The Star moved, you followed with courage like Daniel.

Dry days, lavish nights under the Star-struck sky

until Jerusalem appeared like a golden city

descending out of heavenand The Star stood still over a

stable.Yes, Isaiah, Micah, your directions

were accurate.A Star did rise out of Jacob, from

the house of David.Wise men still kneel before the

King of Kings.

“Suddenly out of the pit of night, radiance rose...”

403-783-2199#1, 6602 41 Ave

(South Industrial Park)Ponoka, AB

ELECTRIC

Dave Pohl | 403.704.7677

River CrossingRiver CrossingTack ShopTack Shop

Greetings of Greetings of the Seasonthe SeasonAnd many thanks for your

generous support all year long.

Ponoka Rising Sun Clubhouse

5216 - 50 Street | 403-783-5810

Merry Christmas

from all of usMay the coming

year bring peace, joy and

enlightenment to you and those

you cherish. For all the joy you’ve

brought us, we will

always be grateful.

Staff, Members and Board of Directors


Shoebox Christmas boxesMake these eco-friendly but at-

tractive Christmas boxes which can be used again and again, but which look just as good as a carefully wrapped Christmas gift!

Collect shoe boxes and other usefully sized containers during the year. Gather together your Christ-mas gift wrap supplies and some sumptious Christmas bows and ribbons. You can get away with using fairly inexpensive gift wrap for this, and might ac-tually find you can cover the boxes with it more easily.

Separate the boxes out into bases and lids and cover each separately. Test that they still fit together well. Now attach the bows to the lids, running ribbon around the lid underneath it - fasten under the rim. Run lengths of ribbon in matching position on the bottom of the box, too.

If you store the boxes carefully

you will be able to use them again and again within your family, and will look forward to seeing them each year. You could also use them to keep Christmas decorations safe when you pack everything away at the end of the season.

Frugal gift wrappingHoliday shoppers spend bil-

lions of dollars each year on gifts for friends, family and co-

workers. But holiday shoppers also spend substantial amounts of money dressing up those gifts with bows and wrapping paper. Shoppers may not want to spend

much more on wrap-ping paper, bags and

other ways to dress-up their gifts, and by employing a few tricks of the gift wrapping trade, they may not have to. The following are some frugal, yet flashy, ways to wrap pres-ents this holiday season.

• Children’s artwork: Over the course of a school year parents can

All wrapped up! Tips, tricks and neat ideas for your gift wrappingaccumulate dozens of original pieces of art from their children’s time in the classroom. Instead of relegating those pictures to a memory box or temporary glory on the refrigerator, turn them into unique gift wrap. Pair these pieces of art with colored ribbon, and everyone who gets a unique masterpiece will feel special.

• Newspaper: Recycle news-print and comics into wrapping paper. Encourage everyone to wrap in newspaper for a cohesive look come Christmas morning.• Cloth: Leftover cloth from Halloween or cloth purchased to create homemade curtains can be turned into giftwrap for awkward-shaped gifts. Use dec-

orative ribbon to seal the bundle shut.• Brown paper: Brown paper tied with twine or ribbon is inexpen-sive and can easily be recycled after use. Use a marker to put the names of gift recipients on each package to save on gift tags as well.• Glass jars: Use mason jars when wrapping smaller gifts, in-cluding gift cards, to give them an arts-and-crafts feel.• Fabric gift bags: If you’re handy with a needle and thread, sew sacks out of leftover fab-ric to make gift bags of various sizes.• Cookie tins: Find unique cookie tins from yard sales or leftover tins from holidays past

and use them as gift boxes.• Recipes: If you will be giving a cookbook or food-themed gifts, print recipes that can be used as gift wrap and then later used to make certain dishes.• Baby linens: From blankets to wash cloths, use baby linens to wrap infant-themed gifts for new parents.• Baskets: Wicker baskets are available in various shapes and sizes. They can be used to make a gift collection and then reused over and over again.

There are many creative and inexpensive ways to wrap gifts this year instead of relying on preprinted and often expensive wrapping paper.

• Residential • Commercial• Installation & Repair

• Heating • Ventilation • AC • Custom Sheet Metal • Eavestroughing

3912 - 66 StPonoka, ABwww.wcmltd.ca

Ph: 403.783.3501Fax: 403.783.3531

[email protected]

Merry ChristmasEd Fortney

OWNER

403-506-8530

Merry Christmas and many thanks for your

business this year.

Complete Mechanical

Our Best Wishes for a Seasonfi lled with good times!

To our clients & friends oursincere thanks for your business.

SHERBA SKIDSTEERSERVICES LTD.

587.729.0299

Friends like you make it all worthwhile – thanks!

403-783-56555306 - 50 Street • Ponoka, AB

www.ponokanewused.ca

Our thanks and best wishes for a holiday

season filled with lots of good times

and good cheer!

403-304-6909

Ponoka 403.783.2100Lacombe 403.782.5519

www.strandme.ca

Here’s hoping nothing’s missing from your holiday season. May it be fi lled with family, friends, great times and holiday cheer.

Thank you for your patronage.

Here’s hoping nothing’s missing

All we want for Christmas...is to wish you the very best!

Ponoka Reddi Mart4508 - 39 Ave. • 403-783-6310


“Remember, if Christmas isn’t found in your heart, you won’t fi nd it under a tree.” CHARLOTTE CARPENTER

“Unl

ess

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BIN

G C

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Y

“I sto

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in S

anta

Clau

s wh

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.”S

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“The only blind

person at Christmas time is he who has not

Christmas in his heart.”HELEN KELLER

“CHRISTMAS IS THE SEASON WHEN YOU BUY THIS YEAR’S GIFTS WITH NEXT YEAR’S MONEY.”

AUTHOR UNKNOWN

“Mankind is a great, an immense family... This is proved by what we feel in our hearts at Christmas.”

POPE JOHN XXIII

“Love is what’s in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.” AUTHOR UNKNOWN

• Restroom Trailers• VIP Solar

Powered Units• Handicap Units

COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL/RECREATIONAL

Season’s Greetings

403-783-8322 [email protected]

Portable Toilet Rentalsbll il l

Our Service is Second to None!

WISHING YOU THE VERY BEST THIS

HOLIDAY SEASONWith our thanks fr om the staff at

403-783-8274 5031 - 50 Ave

Email: [email protected]

THERE’S NO TIME LIKE CHRISTMAS TO LET YOU KNOW HOW MUCH WE VALUE YOUR BUSINESS AND SUPPORT.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

WelcomeThe Season!

403-783-34566403 - 44 AVENUE, PONOKA

From the Staff of


FESTIVE CHRISTMAS BREAD

The cherries and nuts in this recipe make this Festive Christmas Bread extra special for Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients:1 ¾ cups fl our2/3 cups brown sugar½ teaspoon salt2 teaspoons baking powder

2 eggs1/3 cup butter½ cup chopped nuts1 jar (10 ounce size) maraschino cherries

Directions:Lightly grease a 9-inch loaf pan and pre-heat the oven to 350F (180C, Gas Mark 4).Drain the cherries, reserving 4 tablespoons of juice, and roughly chop.

In a large bowl combine the fl our,

baking powder and salt and mix well.

In a separate bowl cream together the butter, sugar, eggs and the 4 tablespoons cherry juice. Mix well until fully combined. Add the butter and sugar mix to the fl our mixture and mix well. Then gently fold in the chopped cherries and nuts.

Scoop the batter into the loaf pan, and spread evenly.

Bake bread for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour or until golden and baked through. Remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes.

EASY CHRISTMAS SWIRL BROWNIES

Brownies are good at any time of year, but these Easy Christmas Swirl Brownies are really special! They take just a little extra time to create the “swirl” effect, but using a mix compensates for that. I prefer Betty Crocker’s brownie mix, which you can buy in most major UK supermarkets (it comes in a red box).

EASY CHRISTMAS SWIRL BROWNIES - SO GOOD!

Ingredients:1 package brownie mix1/ teaspoon vanilla extract1/8 cup cream1 package of cream cheese1/3 cup sugar1 bag smartees, M&Ms or

similar.Directions: In a large mixing bowl, cream the sugar and cream cheese until fl uffy. Add the egg, cream and vanilla extract. Mix well and set aside.

Prepare the brownie mix according to instructions. Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and then pour 2/3 of the batter into the pan. Place ½ cup of the M&Ms over the brownie batter. Then spoon the cream cheese mixture over the M&Ms and batter. Finally, scoop the remaining brownie mixture over that. Using the tip of a knife swirl the mixture for a marbled effect.

Bake for approximately 45 minutes at 350F (180C, Gas Mark 4) until baked through but still moist (do not over bake). Cool before cutting into squares.

Website: www.homehardware.ca/sommerhhbcTelephone: 403-783-4464 Twitter @sommerhh

6503-44 Avenue in the Ponoka South Industrial Park

Sommer

is Building!is Building!SpiritTh eTh e

Christmas Hours:December 24th Christmas Eve 8am – 3pm

December 25th Christmas Day CLOSEDDecember 26th Boxing Day CLOSED

December 31st New Year’s Eve 8am – 4pmJanuary 1st New Year’s Day CLOSED

May your home be fi lled with laughter,From the fl oorboards to the rafters.

And may all your hopes and dreams come trueTh at’s our holiday wish for you

With best wishes and gratitude from all of us

Regular store hours:Weekdays: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm • Saturday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Sunday: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm • Closed Stat HolidaysOPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK


SPICED APPLE MUFFINS

Apples and spices will scent your kitchen as these delicious muffi ns cook. Children will love this recipe, although you may prefer to leave the walnuts out for little ones.

Spiced apple muffi ns - we left the walnuts out for this batch because my daughter doesn’t like them!

Ingredients:2 cups all purpose fl our1 teaspoon salt1 tablespoon baking powder1/2 teaspoon cinnamon1/2 teaspoon nutmeg2/3 cup brown sugar2 eggs (beaten)2/3 cup milk1/4 cup butter (melted)1 cup peeled and grated/shredded apple1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

Pre-heat the oven to 350F (180C, Gas Mark 4), and lightly grease a muffi n pan.

In a large bowl, sift together the fl our, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Mix in the brown sugar.

In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, milk and butter. Mix well. Add the egg mixture to the fl our mixture and stir in (do not over mix). Fold in the apples and walnuts (if using).

Spoon the batter into the muffi n pan.

Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden and baked through. Let the muffi ns cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing to wire rack to cool completely.

Wishing you the Wishing you the peace of God’s love peace of God’s love

at Christmas at Christmas and always.and always.

Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to serving you in the New Year

From left: Heather, Cory, Gera, Lynda, Danielle and Dianna

#1, 5102 - 51 Avenue 403.783.8310

The business will be closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Thursday, Jan. 1, 2015.

CHRISTMAS MULLED WINE

The perfect Christmas drink! One whiff of the smell of this heating up and you will know it is the holiday season.

Mulled wine ready to serve at the Christmas party2 bottles of red wine (you don’t have to buy expensive wine)2 ounces of brandy4 cinnamon sticksA handful of clovesA dash of nutmeg2 lemons2 oranges¼ cup sugar

Wash and cut the lemons and oranges into slices, leaving the peel on.

Place the wine in a large pan and slowly simmer. Do not bring to a boil.

Add the lemons, oranges, brandy, spices and sugar. Leave to simmer for approximately 20 minutes. Add cinnamon sticks and simmer for a few minutes more.

Serve warm in mugs or glasses.

Murray & Staff

First Choice Auto &Truck Repair LTDPonoka Towing

SHOP 403-783-8327SHOP 403-783-8327TOWING 403-783-0700TOWING 403-783-0700

4215 - 67 ST.4215 - 67 ST.

Please don’t drink and drive during this Holiday Season!

In the spirit of the season may you find tranquility and contentment in your

homes and hearts.for a happy and healthy holiday season.

Best wishes to Best wishes to all our friends all our friends

and neighboursand neighbours

403-783-7591Email: [email protected]


Best Wishes for a happy and safe holiday season!Our sincere thanks for your loyalty and goodwill

throughout the year. All the best in 2015 From All The Staff at Wy-CoMona, Randy, Bonnie & Annette

Wy-co Alcohol & Drug Testing403.790.7442

5210-50 St, Ponoka AB

With all our best wishes to everyone we know.

Robert, Irene & StaffRobert, Irene & StaffR. JOHANSEN SALES LTD.R. JOHANSEN SALES LTD.

403-783-5185403-783-5185Sales: 1-800-662-7135Sales: 1-800-662-7135

i h ll b i h

We value your patronage and look forward to seeing you in 2015!


AUTHOR UNKNOWN

I was walking around in a store. I saw a cashier hand this little boy his money back saying

“I’m sorry, but you don’t have enough money to buy this doll.”

Then the little boy turned to the old wom-an next to him:

‘’Granny, are you sure I don’t have enough money?’’

The old lady replied:‘’You know that you don’t have enough

money to buy this doll, my dear.’’Then she asked him to stay there for 5

minutes while she went to look around. She left quickly.

The little boy was still holding the doll in his hand.

Finally, I walked toward him and I asked him who he wished to give this doll to.

“It’s the doll that my sister loved most and wanted so much for this Christmas. She was so sure that Santa Claus would bring it to her.”

I replied to him that may be Santa Claus will bring it to her after all, and not to worry.

But he replied to me sadly.“No, Santa Claus can’t bring it to her

where she is now. I have to give the doll to my mommy so that she can give it to my sister when she goes there.”

His eyes were so sad while saying this.“My sister has gone to be with God. Dad-

dy says that Mommy is going to see God very soon too, so I thought that she could take the doll with her to give it to my sister.’’

My heart nearly stopped.

The little boy looked up at me and said:“I told daddy to tell mommy not to go yet.

I need her to wait until I come back from the mall.”

Then he showed me a very nice photo of him where he was laughing. He then told me

“I want mommy to take my picture with her so she won’t forget me.”

“I love my mommy and I wish she doesn’t have to leave me, but daddy says that she has to go to be with my little sister. “

Then he looked again at the doll with sad eyes, very quietly.

I quickly reached for my wallet and said to the boy.

“What if we checked again, just in case you do have enough money?’’

“OK” he said “I hope that I have enough.”I added some of my money to his without

him seeing and we started to count it. There was enough for the doll and even some spare money.

The little boy said:“Thank you God for giving me enough

money!”Then he looked at me and added“I asked yesterday before I slept for God

to make sure I have enough money to buy this doll so that mommy can give it to my sister. He heard me!’’

“I also wanted to have enough money to buy a white rose for my mommy, but I didn’t dare to ask God for too much. But He gave me enough to buy the doll and a white rose.’’

“My mommy loves white roses.”A few minutes later, the old lady came

Merry Christmas & Happy New YearHappy New Year

Wishing youWishing youLove, Peace & HappinessLove, Peace & Happiness

that the true meaning of Christmas brings.that the true meaning of Christmas brings.

Phone: 403-783-5561 Fax: 403-783-4120 4410 - Hwy 2A

Vold, Jones & VoldAuction Co. Ltd.

The Doll and the Roseagain and I left with my basket.

I finished my shopping in a totally different state from when I started. I couldn’t get the little boy out of my mind.

Then I remembered a local newspaper article 2 days ago, which mentioned of a drunk man in a truck, who hit a car, where there was one young lady and a little girl.

The little girl died right away, and the mother was left in a criti-cal state. The family had to decide whether to pull the plug on the life-assisting machine, because the young lady would not be able to recover from the coma.

Was this the family of the lit-tle boy?

Two days after this encounter with the little boy, I read in the

newspaper that the young lady had passed away.

I couldn’t stop myself as I bought a bunch of white roses and I went to the funeral home where the body of the young woman was exposed for people to see and make last wishes be-fore burial.

She was there, in her coffin, holding a beautiful white rose in her hand with the photo of the little boy and the doll placed over her chest.

I left the place, teary-eyed, feeling that my life had been changed forever. The love that this little boy had for his mother and his sister is still, to this day, hard to imagine. And in a fraction of a second, a drunk driver had taken all this away from him.

We would like to wish a safe and

happ y Holiday Season. All

the bes t in the New Year!

Your continued

patronage is app rec iated.

Paterson & CompanyLaw Offi ce

5016 51 Ave • 403-783-5521

We wish you aMerry ChristmasMerry Christmas

and a Happy New Year!Happy New Year!

From Our Home To Yours

This Christmas Season

From Our Home

Season’s Greetings

4209 48 Ave. • 403-783-47644209 48 Ave. • 403-783-4764

CENTRE Northcott Northcott Care CentreCare Centre

We Wish To Give A Special Thank You To Families

And Friends Who Contribute

So Much Throughout

The Year.


1. We all know that Rudolph has a red nose, but does Rudolph have antlers?

2. In the song “Jingle Bells” who was seated by my side?

3. Yogi Bear spends his first Christ-mas in what park?

4. This cartoonist of “Believe it or not” fame was born Christmas Day, 1893?

5. Round or oval candies filled with fruit preserves or cream and covered with chocolate are called?

6. This famous hotel magnate was born December 25, 1887?

7. The movie, “ Miracle on 34th Street,” is in what city?

8. In which Christmas song are the lyrics, “to see if reindeer really know how to fly?”

9. Peter, Paul and Mary had this No. 1 song during Christmas 1969?

10. In The Dick Van Dyke Show Christmas episode, what wood-

wind instrument did Laura play: Flute or piccolo?

11. Which country created eggnog?

12. In 1962, the U.S. Postal System first did what?

13. Who said, “God Bless Us, Every One!”?

14. This state has the “World’s Tall-est Living Christmas Tree?” Maine or California?

15. Who is rumored to have stolen Christmas?

16. In Santa Claus the Movie, Joe drank what and burped? Coke or Sprite?

17. For the first time in 38 years, what two religious holidays coin-cided on December 25, 1978?

18. How many reindeer hooves are there (include Rudolph) ?

19. What were Frosty’s last words?

20. The most popular item to put on top of a Christmas tree is?

O’ Christmas Trivia... O’ Christmas Trivia...21. If you spent $86,609 in 2008, what would you be buy-ing?

22. Who yelled “Stop!” to Frosty?

23. The average number of lights on a Christmas tree is: 200 or 350?

24. How many Wise Men were there according to the bible?

25. If you were born on Christ-mas Day, what’s your sign?

26. Robert Scott set out the North Pole or the South Pole on Christmas Day, 1911?

27. What two words are nor-mally pre-printed on gift tags?

28. There are 365 days in a year. What number is Christmas Day?

29. Christmas Ridge is located

in what underwater mountain range?

30. After Joseph, Mary and Jesus left Bethlehem, they went to what country?

31. “Advent” means?

32. Lucy charges how much for her psychiatric services in the animation, “A Charlie Brown Christmas”?

33. Frosty is a girl or boy?

34. How much did it cost to send a Christmas card within the same city early in the Victo-rian era?

35. Traditionally speaking, Frosty the Snowman has a hat; but, does he also wear a scarf?

36. McDonald’s puts what holiday image on bags during the Christmas season?

37. The Littlest Angel has a problem wearing what cor-rectly?

38. December 24, 1814 ended what war?

39. On this day every year, the largest government mailing takes place?

40. In “Jingle Bell Rock” ev-eryone is dancing and prancing. Where do they do it?

41. Which reindeer’s name is also the name of a kitchen cleanser?

42. Santa Claus gets back up the chimney by doing what?

43. Alvin the Chipmunk wants what for Christmas?

44. In A Christmas Carol, all three spirits visited in one night or three nights?

ANSWERS ARE AT WWW.BROWNIELOCKS.COM/QUIZ.HTMLANSWERS ARE AT WWW.BROWNIELOCKS.COM/QUIZ.HTML

Signs of the season are everywhere --The snow on the ground; the chill in the air

But our hearts are always warm, this is true,When we turn our thoughts to friends like you!

With gratitude and best wishes for a happy holiday season from all of us.

It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas!

Rowland, Parker Rowland, Parker & Associates LLP& Associates LLP

Chartered AccountantsChartered Accountants

403-783-3315 5013 - 49 Ave. Ponoka403-783-3315 5013 - 49 Ave. Ponoka

Warm wishes for a Merry Christmas

along with heartfelt thanks for your friendship and goodwill.

WE WILL BE CLOSEDDEC 25 & 26

OPEN DEC 31 UNTIL 12:00 NOONCLOSED JAN. 1, 2015

JAN. 2, 2015 REGULAR HOURS

WILL’S WELDING6506-44 Avenue,

Ponoka Industrial Park403-783-3733

AGENT FOR: FLAMAN RENTALS

OPEN DEC 24 UNTIL 12:00 NOON

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It SnowLet It SnowLet It SnoLet It Snoww

Nothing can dampen our appreciation for customers like you!

Merry Christmas and many thanks.

6701 - 46 Ave

403-783-3636

Ponoka First CallTowing Ltd.

Keith Stebner


GOOD NIGHT!to all and to all aMerry Christmas

HERE ’S TO A CALM AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR !


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