Celebrating 100 years as a community

 
The weather was perfect on Saturday, June 3, for the Town of Smoky Lake’s Centennial. The list
of activities and events for locals and visitors ensured something for everyone. Our town’s
community spirit was also displayed by the significant number of volunteers and local groups
who contributed their time and energy, creating a fun-filled day for everyone. The Farmers
Market at the Ag Complex was bursting with vendors displaying their wares and goodies, thus
attracting an enthusiastic shopping crowd. Accordionist Paulo Souza entertained everyone with
his energetic music while the town’s CAO, Dawn Phillips, flipped burgers at the popular free
BBQ outside. The anticipated burger consumption doubled, but no one left hungry thanks to
the Agricultural Society’s sponsorship and President Sharon Boychuk’s support. Horse-drawn
wagon rides were available for our youngest residents and our young-at-heart adults. Riders
had fun experiencing what it was once like for families travelling without motorized vehicles.
The Smoky Lake Museum was open and very busy with interested visitors wanting to learn
more about the town’s history. A special shout out to Ron Rosichuk and Pat Flinn for
their efforts to make these events happen! The action continued for the afternoon in Pumpkin
Park. Susannah Eldridge organized children’s craft and game activities besides the heritage
caboose. At the same time, Tara Harder and local musicians entertained their audience from
the CN Station’s deck. For those who didn’t want to keep still, Noreen Easterbrook and Barb
Tywoniuk created an excellent guide for a self-guided tour of all the historic buildings and sites
in town, such as the Smoky Lake Inn, which is celebrating its 101st birthday this year.  In the
late afternoon, a formal program led by former CAO Pat Elaschuk was held at the historic
Orotona Hall (originally a movie theatre and a dance hall but now serving as the Seniors Drop-in
Centre). Pat welcomed all guests and dignitaries, including recently re-elected MLA Glenn van
Dijken and former mayor Peter Goruk (1989-1992), who turns 90 years old this month. This
gathering celebrated town history with music, jigging, and speeches. A video presentation,
“Then and Now,” by Marianne Prockiw-Zarusky and Noreen Easterbrook, beautifully showed
how much the town has developed and changed in the last 100 years. A panel of residents
comprised of seniors and newcomers was interviewed and shared their views on what it’s like
to live in Smoky Lake. A free “Come and Go Supper” sponsored by the Town of Smoky Lake was
well attended by several hundred residents and visitors. The highlight of this meal was the
1,800 perogies made from scratch by a volunteer team organized by Pat Palechuk, and this full
day of celebration ended with more music and dance at the Orotona Hall. 
Event Chair, Rachelle Amyotte, summarized the celebration best: “It takes a village. It took a
village to facilitate this event, and I was honoured to stand alongside all of you in
commemorating the history of our town.  Please know there is a lot of gratitude and
appreciation for your efforts, time, and commitment to our town.” Happy 100th birthday,
Town of Smoky Lake!