Town of Stettler Voted Best Destination on 2022 Coast to Coast Car Tour
Submitted by Malcolm Fischer
Periodically, a large gathering of vintage vehicle enthusiasts plan a journey, with their cars and holiday trailers in tow, across the entirety of Canada. Each dips its wheel in the Atlantic at Cupid’s Bay in Newfoundland and about 50 days later, does the same on Vancouver Island. It can be a gruelling trip for both the approximately 100 people and their vehicles as they visit many destinations, planning a different route each time the journey takes place. Knowing the two Alberta reps in the Coasters organization, locals Malcolm Fischer and Bob Poapst asked them about visiting Stettler, where we show everyone what true hospitality is. In their most recent marathon in 2022, they did just that, including Stettler in their extensive itinerary.
On the afternoon of their arrival, they were presented with the signature “welcome bags” organized and distributed by Board of Trade before being treated to the Alberta Prairie supper run to Big Valley. This was followed by an evening of refreshments provided by the Town of Stettler and served up by Mayor Sean, Town Council members, and Administration The Coasters were dazzled and very complimentary. The next day, they were warmly welcomed and toured through elevator features by the P&H Elevator Preservation Society, perused the many excellent Stettler shopping venues, and were treated to a tour of Scott Savage’s outstanding and unique car collection followed by Rory Christianson touring them through his Passion Automotive restoration facility.
A “Show and Shine” then took place at the Community Hall parking lot while participants savoured the fabulous sounds of our own Jazz Guys. This was followed by a delicious pig roast prepared by members of the Ponoka Piston Poppers car club with assistance from local catering experts. This banquet was funded by the Central Alberta Vintage Auto Club, which has several members in Stettler.
When the Coasters’ tour concluded on the west coast, members chose Stettler as the number one destination in the entire country. This is a great honour voted on by participants from all provinces. At the recent Central Alberta Vintage Auto Club ‘Swap Meet’ in Red Deer, Alberta Coasters representative Warren Rogalsky presented certificates recognizing this lofty achievement - one for the Town of Stettler and one to lead organizer Malcolm Fischer who is seen here presenting the Town’s well-earned certificate of recognition to Mayor Sean Nolls.
Way to go, Stettler! Again!