Kinette Club of Smoky Lake wins first award
By Brandie Majeau

By Brandie Majeau
The Kinette Club of Smoky Lake recently played host to the “Zone C” Spring
Zones, drawing enthusiastic participation from Kinettes representing Vegreville, Fort
McMurray, and Lac La Biche, as well as Kinsmen from Fort McMurray and Smoky Lake.
The event, dedicated to fostering education and fellowship among members, also made
a significant contribution to the local community by raising over $1,000 for the Smoky
Lake Food Bank. Organizers credited the generosity and collaborative spirit of all clubs
involved for making the fundraiser a resounding success.
A highlight of the gathering was the Kinette Club of Smoky Lake’s win of their
very first Kin Award. The club was honoured with the Boake Award, a prestigious
recognition bestowed by Kinette Clubs under the umbrella of Kin Canada, a national
service organization. While the details and criteria for the Boake Award may vary by
club, it is generally presented to a Kinette club who has demonstrated outstanding
volunteerism, leadership, and commitment to the ideals of the organization. The award,
often named in honour of a significant figure within the Kinette community, serves to
highlight and inspire service excellence among members.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Hilary Derksen
(Governor), Shandelle Gorestski (Vice Governor), and Theresa Potts (Deputy
Governor), whose presence was warmly acknowledged by the hosts. Additional thanks
were extended to local businesses and individuals, Old Fashioned Bread Bakery, Red
Chimney, Smoky Lake Curling Club, Amy Cherniwichan and Eric Plumb, for their
contributions to the event’s success.
The “Zone C” Spring Zones not only strengthened bonds among Kinette and
Kinsmen members across the region, but also reinforced the spirit of community service
that lies at the heart of Kin Canada. With fellowship, recognition, and generosity on full
display, the Smoky Lake event set a positive example for service clubs throughout Alberta.