Richard Froese
South Peace News
A former Donnelly resident was welcomed home when the RCMP Musical Ride performed Aug. 27 at the Smoky River Fairgrounds.
Corps Sgt. Major Elaine Maisonneuve was a member of the Musical Ride that attracted a crowd of about 400, including many of her relatives, for the event hosted by the Smoky River Agricultural Society.
The event was a memorable and emotional event for Maisonneuve, the first female in Canada to hold that position.
“It was such an extreme honour for me to present the RCMP Musical Ride in Donnelly,” says Maissoneuve, who grew up just five houses east of the fairgrounds, daughter of Roger and Lucette Maisonneuve.
“It was deeply emotional and after being introduced in such a beautiful way by Mayor Myrna Lanctot, it was very difficult to contain the many emotions I was feeling at that moment, my mind flooded with memories of my childhood here followed by the incredible experiences I have in my career in the force.”
She began her RCMP career in 1997.
“It was a tremendous privilege for me to be able to address the people of Donnelly and the Smoky River region and to pay tribute to the community that shaped my youth and paved the way for my future,” Maisonneuve says.
She was overwhelmed by the crowd.
“The attendance and response from the community was more than I could have ever dreamed of,” says Maisonneuve.
“The crowd was engaged, enthusiastic and obviously had a great time.
“Smiles were everywhere, from the riders to the folks in attendance – it was infectious.”
She was simply impressed.
“Those in attendance did not let me down and proved to our Musical Ride team that Donnelly is the best,” says Maisonneuve.
“I was able to connect with so many people from my past, not only family members but old friends.
“I felt in my heart the positive vibes and energy coming from my little hometown community.”
She appreciates the opportunity to return home for the special event.
“I am so thankful to the community organizers for following through on the idea to bring the RCMP Musical Ride to Donnelly and for the kind invitation.”
It was dream of agricultural society president Linda Dionne-Marcoux the last few years.
“I’ve been trying to get the RCMP Musical Ride here for five years,” says Dionne-Marcoux.
Maisonneuve says the memories of the event will last a long time.
“The hospitality of the community was so impressive and highlights how, when people come together as neighbours and friends, amazing things happen,” Maisonneuve says.
“The night was special not only for those in attendance, and myself personally, but also for the RCMP members and support crew who experienced a heightened level of pride.”
It had a significant impact.
“This undoubtedly fed into the quality of their outstanding performance at the show,” Maisonneuve says.
“Human and community connections is what these events are all about.
“Thank you, Donnelly and the Smoky River region for making me proud to be from this region.”
