Close to 200 family and friends were on hand at the Snow Lake Elks Hall on July 26 to help René Lamontagne celebrate his 85 birthday.
It was quite the affair. In addition to a packed house, the event featured an exceptional meal that included prime rib and hot dogs.
If that wasn’t enough, those throwing the shaker brought in Lamontagne’s favourite band: Irene and the Goodnighters, featuring former Snow Laker Irene Schellenberg and partner Raymond Kalk.
They were backed up by a couple of current residents in Claude Trudeau on guitar and Brian Warren on bass.
The evening also included a humorous PowerPoint put on by the birthday boy’s grandchildren and a massive and beautifully decorated birthday cake that was quickly devoured.
On a sad note, Lamontagne’s birthday celebration is rumoured to be the last affair to be held in the Elks Hall prior to it being sold.
Nevertheless, it is fitting that a milestone of someone so worthy may hold that distinction.
Over the last decade, Lamontagne was the embodiment of the Snow Lake Elks Club, and there isn’t a person who draws breath who will miss the old hall more than he.
Even though his years are numerous, there weren’t many dances the grand old Elk sat out. He was up and twirling the ladies all evening.
Rocks and Minerals
In other news, the Snow Lake Mining Museum held its Fifth Annual Rock and Mineral Day on July
15 with close to 60 people on hand throughout the day.
It was a perfect opportunity for the young and not so young to bring in their favorite boulder and get an expert opinion on what it was – and even where it came from!
The rock docs in attendance were Clair Pilgrim and Bill Salahub Jr. and the lines were long in front of each of these gents all afternoon.
In addition to finding out about that favourite piece of rock, there were several free draws and the invitation to snack on some cupcakes that were apparently decorated with real (chocolate) rocks.
Finally, on July 24 MLA Clarence Pettersen presented Rylee Galiz, office manager of the Snow Lake Family Resource Centre, with a cheque for $29,592.
The cheque was made possible through Community Places Program North, of the province’s Department of Housing and Community Development, for interior and exterior renovations (windows, soundproofing, interior doors, etc.). All renovations have been completed.
My Take on Snow Lake runs Fridays.
