It was an evening of pride and jubilation as local radio station Q93.3 celebrated its 40th year in the industry with stellar acts such as Domino, Bobby Wills and Jamie Woodfin enchanting the crowds on Friday, Feb. 5 at the Stettler Community Hall.
"The feeling of being part of the 40 years of great radio in Stettler has been amazing," said station manager Vicki Leuck. "The men and women that started the station CHOA 40 years ago created something special and we are lucky enough to have Marvin Seibel and Bob Rawlusyk with us in the 40th year.
"They were here at the start 40 years ago, so it was great to hear stories of how it was back then, to be a small part of that is truly an honour and we can't wait to see what is coming in the future."
Leuck who has been with the station for almost nine years and with Newcap for 17 years, first started in radio sales in Brooks, Alberta at the station there, before being offered her current gig here in 2007.
The night kicked off with introductions of the current staff at the station, followed by a message from County Reeve Wayne Nixon.
As the evening rolled on, there was a presentation with images of past staff and messages from former on air staff.
Present staff members Landon Peterson and Alex Mykyta wrote a song about the station's 40 years and performed it, which was followed by the bigger acts.
The entertainment started with Jamie Woodfin, followed by local ACMA award winners Domino, capped off with CCMA winner Bobby Wills and his band.
While the entertainment was in full swing there were "giveaways of 40th anniversary swag" and some great prizes.
"We did not have a hard time choosing the acts for this celebration, as we wanted Domino to be a part of it not only due to the fact that they are local but because we are very strong supporters of them and their music," said Leuck. "We also wanted to have a new act come out and Jamie Woodfin has been great to our station."
According to Leuck, Bobby Wills was here three years ago almost to the day doing a tour with his new album and he was on board from the very beginning to come out and do a show for the radio station.
"The whole evening was fantastic," said Leuck. "We were able to see some of our long-term listeners, have our VIP clients and customers be a part of our big night as well as town and county councilors."
Local band Domino thought it was an honour to perform on such a big night.
"We were honoured to perform for Q93.3's 40th anniversary, alongside Alberta talent Jamie Woodfin, and CCMA winner Bobby Wills," said Luanne Carl on behalf of the whole band. "We have so many fond memories with many of the fine folks from Q93.3 and look forward to making many more, and can't thank them enough for their support over the past few years. Congratulations and here's to 40 more."
With over 300 people at the event, the hall was packed.
"The food was sponsored by Canalta Hotel with all money raised from the food and the bar going to the Heartland Youth Association," said Leuck. "It went above and beyond our expectations and we are so happy that everyone could be a part of our celebrations."