There were two special activities offered in Bentley on Family Day, February 16.
The Bentley Museum once again offered a free open house from 1-4 p.m. with visitors welcome to explore between the society's three buildings on their own or with guided tours by society member volunteers.
The museum also sponsored the always-popular free horse-drawn wagon rides around town with pickup and drop-off in front of the museum. Owner Stuart Lyster and daughter Holly Lyster who drove around town with families and individuals seated on straw bales placed on the rubber-tired wagon kept Duke and Doc busy.
Coffee or hot chocolate, and cookies were served, encouraging visitors to sit and visit for a while in the main building, the Pico house.
Both the Ag Building with rearranged displays and the newer building were also open.
A lot of work has been ongoing as was evidenced by the improved displays and display areas and the more life-like mannequins now showing some of the past fashions and uniforms they have in their collection. A Dick Damron section is very impressive, along with many more areas and artifacts.
Admission is free. Just call Cora (403-748-2455) or Clara (403-748-2350) or Betty (403-48-2744) to make an appointment. The museum is open regular hours during the summer.
Free turkey dinners were served to anyone and everyone who cared to come to the Bentley Community Church on Family Day starting at 3:00 p.m. The gymnasium, decorated in a bright Valentine's Day ‘love and family’ theme, was packed with people, full of the festive scents of good food, and resounding with the sounds of happy, visiting guests.
Food prep included five turkeys, 50 pounds of potatoes for mashing, 10 pounds of carrots plus peas, real gravy, special stuffing, salads and cranberries, and a table with a variety of desserts, all offered buffet style. Coffee, tea, and juice were offered as well.
"We just like to do it for the community," said Pastor Greg Rathjen, who welcomes newcomers and old-comers alike and is thankful for his team of wonderful helpers. "Jesus was always blessing people around food."
Well over 100 people attended.