BIG VALLEY BULLETIN -- The tourist season has begun with the first train of the season arriving here in Big Valley this past Saturday, May 14. The train was nearly full with over 360 people on board. Approximately 75 of the visitors were evacuees from Ft. McMurray who remarked how wonderful Stettler and area was treating them. The "Big Valley welcomes Fort McMurray" sign was a big hit with many wanting their pictures taken with the sign.
An unscheduled train came into Big Valley on Sunday, May 15. This was a special train carrying a wedding party. Alberta Prairie Steam Tours was quite excited that one of their conductors chose to get married in Big Valley's blue church. This was a repeat of history as a railroad conductor got married at the same church 99 years ago. Everyone at the historical society and Big Valley in general are extremely pleased when young couples choose our church as their "special" place, as we consider the church very special, too.
Don't forget to mark your calendars for the long awaited grand ppening of the Historical Society's new tool museum on Sunday, May 29 from 1 to 4 p.m. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony at 1 p.m. followed by an open house, light refreshments and some door prizes. Be sure to come out to Big Valley and to check out this amazing new museum.
Also on Sunday, May 29 is the Big Valley Elks' annual Memorial Golf Tournament at the Big Valley golf course. Breakfast and registration begin at the clubhouse at 8 a.m. with tee off at 10 a.m. The tournament will be the usual nine holes, Texas Scramble, followed by beef on a bun and fun prizes. The Elks invite everyone to come out for a day of excellent golf, great food and good fellowship.
The Big Valley 4-H Beef Club held their mock achievement day at Armstrong's ranch on Sunday, May 1 and it was a great success. The steer and heifers looked fantastic. All the members are very excited about the show and sale next week. The female show will start at 2 p.m. on Monday, May 23. The steer show kicks off on Tuesday, May 24 at 9 a.m. with the sale to follow at 7 p.m. The Big Valley 4-H Beef Club invites everyone to join them at the show and sale to help them celebrate their successful year.