Ciara O ’ Reilly , Martensville Messenger

The Martensville Alliance Church Kids Club leaders hosted a “ free shop ” December 15th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm . The “ free shop ” was created in order for the children partaking in the club to ‘ shop ’ and pick out presents for their loved ones this Christmas .

The shopping experience allowed the kids an opportunity to search for gifts and it also gave them time to consider each family member during the season of giving . Gifts that were chosen were then wrapped up right away so that the kids could put them underneath the Christmas tree as soon as they got home . “ A group of us came together and just thought that this would be a great thing for the kids to do so they can treat their families this Christmas ,” said Cindi Lefrancois , Kids Club leader . Lefrancois dedicated a few weeks , along with other church leaders , to gathering donations from members of the community in order to make the ‘ shopping ’ event a success .

The kids were all smiles as they scoured the ‘ shop ’ looking for the perfect gift for mom , dad , and brothers and sisters . Items inside the shop were generously donated by members of our community , and there were tons to choose from . The shop consisted of neck ties , fishing lures , lotions , fuzzy socks , colouring books and toys aplenty . There was something for everyone at the Alliance Church , from toys to toiletries . Each member of Kids Club was successful in finding the perfect gifts to put under the tree .

WEEKEND WEATHER

martensville messenger - deCemBer 22 , 2016 - Page 3

Monday-Friday 9-8 Saturday 10-5 Sunday 12-5 Closed Holidays

Wow , where did 2016 go ? And what a year it has been ! The City of Martensville continued on its upward trajectory . Whether you look at the continued housing construction activity , to the work happening in our park spaces or business community , Martensville is the place to be .

Upon reflection , I am particularly proud of the community spirit that really emerged this year in Martensville . During this holiday season it is important to look back and be grateful for all the wonderful and dedicated people that we have in our community . Whether it is those that dedicate their time to coach and organize the many recreation and social programming , to the many community events likes Buster Days and Winterfest , or the groups actively fundraising and organizing for future community projects , I am very proud to say that my home is Martensville .

I know that these themes will continue into 2017 . New businesses will open , construction on the new overpass will begin , and two new elementary schools , Lake Vista and Holy Mary will open in the fall . The excitement of beginning a new journey in a new school , shopping

locally at any one of our many businesses or dining at your new f a v o u r i t e restaurant , w h i c h h a p p e n s to be in Martensville are all possible in 2017 . And that is pretty exciting !

As the holiday season arrives , I hope you and your family take time to enjoy each other ’ s company and the many great things our city has to offer , a city we love to call home ! On behalf of all of the staff at the City of Martensville , City Council and myself , I would like to wish you a safe and happy holiday season . Merry Christmas everyone and Happy New Year .

Sincerely , Kent Muench

ABOVE : Taking the time to find the perfect gifts for their family members . ( Ciara O ’ Reilly )

Firefly Counselling Services located inside our clinic www . fireflycounsellingservices . com - 306-715- 4116

5A - 7 Centennial Drive North - Martensville

Get Dad what he REALLY wants for Christmas

Ken & Bernice Symak 306.221.8384 & 306.221.1071