Smoky Lake buzzing with seasonal activities

By Irene van der Kloet

It is the season for celebrating and extra care for the community, and in Smoky Lake, that message is well understood. On November 24, the Smoky Lake Kinettes held their annual Toy and Food Drive. The community was asked to contribute a non-wrapped toy and/or a food item. Items could be put out on the doorstep if living in town or in a box at stores around town. In the early evening of November 24, a Holiday Convoy led by the Smoky Lake Fire Department rolled down each street in Smoky Lake collecting the items. Santa accompanied the convoy in a side-by-side, and the Lions Club provided the bus for the transportation of people and items. The toys will go to kids of families in need in the community; food items will go to the local Food Bank. On November 25, the annual Light Up festival was held, an initiative of the Smoky Lake Chamber of Commerce. The festival is a celebration of the season held in the National Hall. Everyone was welcome, and there was a large turnout, attracted by Santa, free hot dogs, hot chocolate and cookies. A few businesses offered popcorn and cider. There was a bake sale, and outside, the Métis Crossing wagon ride took people around town. Families could play hockey in the street and get their faces painted in the hall. It was a beautiful day with very nice temperatures for the time of the year, and many lined up for the wagon ride through town. Anyone coming through White Earth Street can’t miss the flower shop there. Louilla Tychkowsky from the Floral Farm has her flower shop located at home, but for the season and possibly beyond the Christmas season, she has set up shop in Pappy’s Parcel Pitstop. “In the first two days, I sold 17 plants”, she says. “It is amazing!”. The shop is beautifully set up with primarily seasonal plants and greens that will decorate your living room throughout the year. The shop is open Tuesday-Friday from 10:00-5:30. The SMOKY LAKE LEGION #227 offers a FREE CHRISTMAS DINNER on December 25.

The motto is “Don’t be alone for Christmas,” appealing to all those who live alone or might be home alone at Christmas, but everyone is welcome. It will be an excellent way to spend Christmas Day and socializing while enjoying a good meal. Attendees are asked to contact George Brooks before December 15 to confirm they are coming, so the cooks can ensure enough food for everyone. George Brooks can be reached at 780-914-6545. Last but not least, the Smoky Lake Lions Club worked a Casino event on December 1 and 2 and thanks all those who came out to help in this vital fundraiser for the club.