2000 - 10 YEARS AGO
After more than 40 years in Stettler, Starling and Innocent is closing its doors. Co-owner Markus Stadelmann said they plan to finish out the year and then close the store. Starling and Innocent - which is an Agco Massey Ferguson dealership - first started when Bob Starling came from Botha and partnered with Murray Innocents in 1959.
Donalda sculptor, John Beaver, has been invited to display one of his works at the Canadian Sculpture Centre in Toronto. Beaver is showing a work called “Give It Back.”
1990 - 20 YEARS AGO
Stettler MLA and Premier Don Getty was granted the honorary title of “Chief Kinnosayoo” in a historical ceremony at the Whitefish Lake Indian Reserve in Northern Alberta. The honour was bestowed by Chief Tallman, who remarked that Premier Getty “gives us great wisdom - you learn from men of his character.”
Stettler high school students have collected 1,245 pounds of food for Edmonton Bissell Centre food bank. Wm. E. Hay’s student union, the athletic board and SWEAT council were all involved.
1980 - 30 YEARS AGO
Twenty-six babies were born at the Stettler General Hospital during the month of December. We believe this is the greatest number of babies born in the town since the post-war baby boom, and certainly a record for the years since the Pill has been in use.
A team from Sweden will give an international flavour to Stettler Legion Midgets’ six team tournament Jan. 2 to 4. The tournament is a big venture for the Legion, and fan support is imperative for success.
1970 - 40 YEARS AGO
Christmas arrived in this community with the annual carol festival at the high school, where more than 1,000 persons were captivated by the carols of 16 choruses and the stirring music of Stettler Band. They say Christmas belongs to the children, and so it was fitting that much of the program was provided by children.
Stettler Fish and Game Association has brought in 28 wild turkeys from Montana, and is wintering them on the farm of George Kerl, north of Botha. The big game birds will be released in the Stettler area this spring.
1960 - 50 YEARS AGO
Canadian Utilities Limited will spend $7.5 million expanding electric generating capacity in Alberta over the next few years. Largest item is a $4.4 million expansion program at the firm’s Battle River plant. The new auditorium of Gadsby School was first used Dec. 22, when pupils and staff presented a Christmas concert to parents and friends. Principal Dowhaniuk remarked that the value of this fine new auditorium cannot be measured in dollars and cents, but in its use to the students and the community.
1950 - 60 YEARS AGO
Fire broke out in Stettler Arena and threatened to destroy the old building before the fire brigade got the stubborn blaze under control. Stettler Imperials received a heavy blow when water from the fire hoses soaked their equipment.
At a well-attended meeting of young people and parents, held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Stormoen Dec. 18, a junior calf club was organized.
1940 - 70 YEARS AGO
In accordance with the wishes of the citizens, Mayor Kirby has announced a holiday on Boxing Day, Dec. 26. All stores and businesses will be closed. It is a Dominion holiday.
Mr. George Lang, cook at the National Hotel, has made some Christmas cake in the form of a Chinese temple, decorated with oriental ornaments. This work was all done by hand, and is on display in a glass case in the dining room.
1930 - 80 YEARS AGO
Don’t forget the Elks dance on New Year’s Eve at Carder’s Hall. It will be the social event of the season and the music will be furnished by the Jully Ramblers Orchestra.
The weather continues fair and mild. It is reported that the rivers in the North are still open.
1920 - 90 YEARS AGO
A Charity bonspiel will be held New Year’s Day to raise funds for those in need in the town and district. A fee of 50 cents will be charged for all curlers taking part.
What has become of the bylaw requiring those who drive teams through town to have bells on the harnesses? A child was almost under the horses’ feet before she heard a warning shout from a passer-by.
1910 - 100 YEARS AGO
The first ice race in Alberta took place on Stettler Lake Dec. 20. Running on a straight half mile track, the horses were a little timid upon the ice, but as they get accustomed to it, faster time will be made.