2009

 

February started off with a bang at the Bearspaw Arena, which is owned by our First Nation neighbors. There was a horsemanship clinic in the morning, attended by over 20 horses and riders. Ruth Fowler put everyone through their paces and everyone came away with some more knowledge.Following Pot Luck lunch, the Competition started off with the Amateur division, with 19 entries. This event was won for the second year in a row, by Robyn Neufeld. She was awarded a headstall, donated by Cunningham Farrier Service.The open division featured 11 riders, who showed off their many interesting skills. Also, for the second year, this event was won by Tim Neufeld, on his talented gray mare. He was presented with a pair of brass bound stirrups made by Tony Smith. Second place, and winning a saddle blanket, donated by Cunningham Farrier Service, was our Pastor Bryn.There were four small fry who also rode. We saw these kids cowboy up, and we had all better take notice. There will be some SERIOUS competition in the future. Bailey won the hearts of everyone there and won the Fan’s Choice award presented by Canadian Cowboy Country Magazine.

 

It has been four years since CTC opened the doors. February 3rd saw almost 250 people celebrating the occasion with loud and colorful garb. All who dressed for the occasion were invited to the stage to see who could “Outdress the Pastor”. By receiving the loudest applause, the non award went to Einar Sletten. Cliff Mashford received loud BOOs for daring to wear an Oiler’s shirt. For shame!We were blessed with a beautiful song by Liz and a duet with Paul. The Worship Service was received by all as a special Blessing. We look forward to the future of CTC.

 

Monday, February 16, being family day we gathered at Pioneer Lodge for a day of hay rides, skating and indulging in the tradition of inhaling poor parts of beef in an edible wrapper that is subjected to a charcoal producing toxic outdoor smoke then hidden in a white flour bun and covered in whatever will hide the original flavor.( Bryn’s words)Nearly 200 people gathered at the Pioneer Ranch Camp to enjoy the beautiful day, the great food and the fellowship. There was an enormous table of desserts to go with the aforementioned culinary delights.Five teams and sleighs were available for people to go for a real sleigh ride. There was a hill for kids large and small to slide down, and two areas for skating and pond hockey. Ladies demonstrated us with some figure skating skills as well.The fireplace was kept burning, and there were two outside fires for toasting smokies and marshmallows. The Lodge was full with folks visiting and enjoying the goodies.

 

On April 17, the Women of CTC gathered at the Chapel at the CNBC Mission House.The kind folks from Irvine Tack and Trailer decked out the 15 models with the latest in Western Fashions. Thanks people!There were models young and not so young, and a great evening was had by all. Refreshments and fellowship rounded out the evening.

 

On May 3, well in excess of 125 people gathered at the Bearspaw Rodeo Arena for a fun filled day of Teamsters Competition , which became a demonstration by Rob Erickson. Thanks Rob.The Ladies Musical Ride, Reins of Glory, provided the after lunch entertainment. These gals have been working on this all winter, and the results were superb.Following that, we moved on to the “Fun Dogs” part of the afternoon. There were more than 25 dogs of various shapes and sizes, who were given 15 minutes to be “trained”. Great entertainment for everyone.Our illustrious judges had a great time scoring the various dogs who were put through the obstacles, which were generously provided by Lori Boyle from Superdog Spectrum.There were prizes for all the participants.Then the little Mutton Busters took to the chutes and showed us what they were made of. Good job kids!

 

August 9th was a beautiful day for a Baptism Five Partners from CTC made their public declaration in the Elkton River. We gathered in the afternoon, and all candidates shared a short Testimony and Bryn then performed the ceremony. Sharky was assisting.Following the singing of “The Family of God” we all made our way to the hall where a very delicious Pot Luck supper awaited.Bryn then presented each person with their certificate and a Bible, courtesy of DK and Brenda Hale’s ministry.

 

November 1 was a perfect day for a Fall trail ride. There were 25 of our Partners and their horses who gathered at Gordy Cunningham’s place and set out on another CTC adventure. We were joined by Bryn, Bonny and others who rode the wagon. This time the Pioneer Ranch team was used. Thank you Pioneer!We stopped at the traditional lunch spot and built two fires for cooking the smokies and hot dogs. There was also a large tub of coffee merrily brewing over the fire.Everyone enjoyed a sunny day of fellowship and time spent with their own horse.

 

Leading up to the Christmas season, we gathered donations and then filled several very full baskets for folks in the community. A few days later Bryn brought the team of mules and almost 20 hardy souls rode the wagon and sang carols for residents in the west part of Cochrane. Following the wagon ride, everyone gathered at the Mission Centre for goodies and hot coffee and chocolate.

 

December 23 was the evening that everything came together for our Christmas Service and the Concert. We also dedicated the two youngest boys belonging to Aaron and Chelsea Cunningham. Jake and Angus were dedicated, and big brother Jesse was there to help. The artisans showed off their creations , there was way too many goodies as usual, and a wonderful evening was enjoyed by everyone present.The Team is ever grateful for all the Partners from CTC who are always willing to help make our special events truly special.