BONNYVILLE – During Seniors' Week, the Bonnyville Senior Citizens Society (BSCS), established in 1975, hosted its 50th anniversary event, welcoming the community, volunteers, and dignitaries to join them for a barbecue and cake cutting celebration.
BSCS President Sherry Hennessey created a video presentation, sharing the history of the BSCS and the Bonnyville Seniors Drop-in Centre (BSDC), where the event was held on June 3.
“As we look back at the past five decades, we honour the contributions of everyone involved in shaping this vibrant community hub. We also look forward to the next 50 years with excitement and enthusiasm,” said Hennessey.
She shared the interesting events and creative ways past presidents and members fundraised for the society, including craft fairs, catering meals, canvassing, selling perogies and pie, and even selling off pieces of the ribbon they used at a ribbon cutting ceremony.
“These were excellent ways to engage the community while showcasing the talents of our seniors. These events not only served as fundraising opportunities, but they also promoted socialization, interaction, and skill sharing among our members,” said Hennessey.
In 1979, bus trips for seniors were popular in the area, and provided seniors with opportunities to explore and socialize, while raising funds for the BSDC. The BSCS has always aimed to enhance the lives of the senior population.
Hennessey spoke about the “momentous occasion” when the BSCS held a burning of the mortgage ceremony. They also held a similar ceremony when they burned the loan papers associated with the expansion of the BSDC.
“This achievement symbolized financial freedom and the successful establishment of a space dedicated to seniors. It reflected the hard work and dedication of the society's members who rallied together to ensure sustainability of their beloved centre,” said Hennessey.
She also recognized the countless volunteer hours that have been put into making the BSCS a success, and the 13 presidents who have been instrumental in shaping the society.
“To be successful, you need strong leadership, good attitudes, and patience with each other as we learn,” said Hennessey.
In 2023 the main hall of the BSDC was renamed the McGregor Hall in honour of William McGregor, a long-serving volunteer and past president of the BSCS. McGregor served on the board of directors from 1992 to 2015, including 10 years as president.
“The dedication coincided with his 100th birthday, reflecting the society's appreciation for those who have contributed significantly to its success. It serves as a reminder of the impact of dedicated individuals on the community. Willie played a huge role in getting this addition to the Centre. As well as being an active participant, he believed in the benefit of activities and socializing for the well-being of seniors,” said Hennessey.
MD of Bonnyville Reeve Barry Kalinski expressed how proud he is that William Mcgregor is from the area.
“Without him, a lot of things wouldn’t have happened in our area . . . I hope I can be a pillar like Mr. McGregor. I wish I could be half the man he is with all his accomplishments,” said Kalinski.
Ernie Isley, one of the original committee members of the BSCS and the former principal of the school Hennessey attended, also made a speech, beginning by saying, “When you’re introduced by a former student who is now the president of the seniors society, that makes you pretty damn old, and if you’re pretty damn old, you can get away with saying almost anything.”
Isley explained that he was the president of the Bonnyville Chamber of Commerce in the mid 70s, and Marcel Ducharme was a vice president.
“We had a request from the seniors to have someone attend a meeting . . . I talked Marcel into going, and he volunteered me for a committee. I got even with Marcel later on when I got him on the hospital project,” joked Isley.
He explained that Ducharme became instrumental in the building of a new hospital and was heavily involved in the community. Ducharme served on the Northern Alberta Development Council and the Lakeland College Board of Governors.
“I think Marcel is one of the most overlooked contributors in this community . . . He was one of those quiet volunteers that didn't stand up and demand much attention,” said Isley.
Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr delivered a speech at the event, highlighting the provincial government’s commitment to its senior citizens.
“As our senior population grows, Alberta's government remains committed to ensuring our older Albertans can age with dignity, surrounded by the communities they've helped create. We continue working with local organizations like this one to deliver programs that promote independence, dignity, and quality of life,” said Cyr.
Town of Bonnyville Mayor Elisa Brosseau gave thanks to all the hard work Hennessey has contributed to the BSCS, including the anniversary event that honoured past presidents - one of which was Brosseau’s great grandfather, Léon Paul Bougie.
“He was one of the people who had a vision, along with many others, and worked hard to bring this centre to life. He believed, just like many of us, that our seniors deserve a place to gather for an active lifestyle . . . As mayor, and as someone who has roots deep in Bonnyville, I am proud to be here with my council, because as a council, we know that when we look out for seniors, we honour the generations who built this town, and we are trying to set an example for the generations to come,” said Brosseau.
