Fountain Tire and A&W came together to celebrate their 60th anniversaries with a free movie showing at the West Stettler Park, along with popcorn and root beer floats for all goers.
The two organizations also partnered with Gear Up Kids Foundation – a local sports-oriented non-profit – in a modern birthday trend, where the birthday celebrant gives back to their community. Through a silent auction at the park, the two businesses worked together to raise money for Gear Up, a non-profit which helps outfit local kids participate in support by providing equipment.
Fountain Tire is celebrating its 60th birthday nationwide with movies and special deals, with the local branch having been in Stettler for 41 years. A&W is also celebrating its 60th year since it opened its doors in Canada.
The silent auction that concluded at the end of the movie, Daddy's Home, raised about $390, DJ Leslie, manager of Stettler's Fountain Tire, said. Two more items are still being auctioned off until Aug. 17; a signed collage of Gordie Howe photos that includes a limited edition print, a photo of Howe with Wayne Gretzky, and a certificate of authenticity; and a vehicle detailing package valued at $400 from Stettler GM.
"We're expecting bidding to be pretty fierce," Leslie said.
The Gear Up Kids Foundation is a non-profit, volunteer-operated group of Stettler and area residents who raise money to help kids in need play sports and live an active life.
The organization accepts new and gently-used sports equipment as well as financial donations, as many items have to be purchased new for safety reasons.
Gear Up accepts sporting equipment for hockey, lacrosse, baseball, soccer, tennis, golf, badminton, as well as rollerblades, skateboards and scooters. The organization accepts donations at the Stettler Brick store.