MEOTA — Meota Lakeshore Lions are once again hosting their annual pasta night this Saturday, Aug. 16, at the Meota Community Complex. Doors open at 5 p.m., allowing plenty of time to browse through the silent auction items and start bidding. Last year, I was so excited when I scored several items that we needed. It’s incredible to see the local businesses step up and donate many very useful items. The supper starts at 6 p.m. with” all you can eat” pasta and sauces. Entertainment starts at 7 p.m. The Lions have years of experience in attracting great talent for their show. This year, Keegan Isaac, Jeff Arndt and Dave Tuplin will all be part of the show. The entire evening promises to be a lot of fun. The Lions support our community in so many ways, and this is our opportunity to support them. Tickets are still available at the Ward’s on Beach Avenue. Look for the sign out front. See you Saturday.
This week is an exciting week for Meota Lakefront Paddle and Sail. Sailing lessons on Jackfish Lake started on Monday and wrapped up on Friday. This year, the Sask Sail instructors ran two sets of lessons. The afternoon sessions were with the Boy Scouts from the district of North Battleford. This was followed up by lessons for anyone who signed up for Can Sail Level 1, for beginners. This will be the third year in a row that Meota Paddle and Sail will be offering sailing lessons. Two years ago, 19 people signed up and last year, there were nine who took the lessons. This year, as of writing this, there will be at least 11 students in the classes. There may be more. I’ve heard that sometimes people delay signing up until they see the forecast. I actually spent time on my weather app to see what the conditions will be like. Given the amount of rain we’ve recently had, it is a valid concern. You can’t change the weather and it’s actually a good idea to learn, no matter the conditions. I’ve been told that Jackfish Lake is one of the best lakes in the province for sailing. We certainly have the best sailing/kayaking clubhouse in the province. Visitors are amazed at how beautiful the interior is and we owe a lot to the Battlefords Discovery Co-op for their generous gift of paint from their Communities in Colour program.
The garden is providing abundantly, now that we’ve had a week of fabulous rain. Most gardeners are busy harvesting and preserving the fruits of their labour. I’m enjoying photographing all the flowers, insects and scenery. Many of my friends are also keen photographers and post images online. A friend in Cochin has a very keen eye and has developed a strong following for her photography. She told me today that many followers comment that they love seeing her scenic images because it brings them back to the lake. City dwellers don’t have the same photographic opportunities that we enjoy in the country. I was reminded of my mother’s love of photos. I’ve inherited the major job of copying them for the family. I am facing a full-time job this winter, but luckily, it’s something I love to spend my time doing.