Little Obie visits Smoky Lake

By Brandie Majeau

The Smoky Lake Annual Heritage Days and Stampede has once again

concluded with resounding success, providing a delightful and family-friendly long

weekend for all. The events were a weekend of joy and thrill as families relished a

traditional pancake breakfast and indulged in non-stop rodeo action and family-friendly

activities, eats and live entertainment. The parade theme, the Train Tracks of Tradition,

inspired community members to delve into their historical archives, resulting in

phenomenal parade floats that were nothing short of works of art. Pioneers and

cowboys came alive as they passed the spectators on vintage wagons, horseback, or

tractors. The participant’s dedication and the spectacular floats they created this year

truly surpassed all expectations.

The excitement was further heightened with the arrival of Little OBIE, who led the

procession and carried the parade marshals. Little OBIE, a scale-model CN locomotive,

is designed to educate children about railway safety in a way that is both fun and

engaging. The initiative, which includes a locomotive, flatcar, and caboose, travels to

various community events across Canada and the United States. Created by former CN

employee Paul Rose and named after Donald R. “Obie” Bryant, a Safety Director at I.C.

Johnson Yard in Memphis, Little Obie uses interactive experiences and safety tips to

instruct kids about the dangers of play on or near railroad tracks.

Little Obie’s safety education program aims to educate children about railway

safety through interactive presentations, safety tips, educational materials, engagement

with railway professionals, and community involvement. The program emphasizes

staying away from railway tracks, understanding railway signals and signs, and being

vigilant near train crossings.

Little Obie effectively imparts crucial safety lessons to children by incorporating

enjoyable activities. His engaging approach educates children about the potential risks

associated with railways and teaches them how to maintain safety around trains. During

his visit to the Town of Smoky Lake, Little Obie delighted the crowd with his presence.

Afterward, he took up residence at Pumpkin Park, providing visitors with the opportunity

to take photos with him, adding to the overall excitement of the annual Smoky Lake

Heritage Days.