Mother Nature isn't always co-operative when it comes to supplying weather that matches our needs. This weekend, as Meota celebrated 100 years since being incorporated as a village, rain was somewhat the norm of the day as different events were carried off. Luckily it was dry during the parade, but for other events contingency plans were in place, so there were no problems with people getting wet.
Friday night started out with a chilli contest in which there were 22 entries. I had the privilege of being one of the judges for this event which basically gave me the chance to be one of the first three to partake of all of the offerings and treat my palate to the variety of tastes that were presented. Of course the contest led into the chilli supper that was free of charge to all who attended. While others were eating, the Meota Hobby Band took to the stage as the evening's entertainment. The evening was also the start of the silent auction that was a big highlight of the weekend that included a wide variety of crafts and artwork to tempt anyone's tastes. There was great interest in all of the items and the auction was a wonderful success thanks to all who donated items and those who ended up taking them home.
Saturday morning saw me getting up way before usual to help get the pancake and sausage breakfast going. There was a large turnout of more than 300 people who came out to be fed. Again Mother Nature was somewhat co-operative in that there was only a slight amount of precipitation that came down for only a short period to dampen those of us who had to be outside where the grills were. Otherwise it was again an immense success. That led to the parade during which no moisture came down and boy, what a parade for a small community. There were entries from all around with some wonderful antique vehicles, farm equipment, horses and lots of community involvement but, I know one of the staff reporters is doing a layout on this so that is as far as I will go.
The afternoon was a time for official ceremonies with a few speeches of thanks and congratulations. Entertainment was supplied by the Lakeshore Lions Chorus who, as usual, supplied some toe tapping music and frivolity. Other activities included demonstrations for young and old all of which saw a little rain fall but, even though they got wet, spirits were not dampened. I think the activity that was to involve the most people was that of socializing and meeting old friends and new.
Suppertime saw over 500 folks sitting down to a roast beef supper. It totally amazes me the organizers were able to supply enough food for this large gathering without really knowing how many would be coming, but no one went away hungry and again a great time was had by all.
After the supper there was a live combine auction at which 50 threshing hours of rental time were raffled off. The combine hours were donated by Kramer Tractor Limited. The time brought $235. This income will assist in the costs of the weekend and any left over will be kept for the next celebration that happens in Meota.
Saturday evening saw the Meota Community Center filled to the point that it was bulging at the seams. Every spot along the walls was taken up by those who could not find a seat, all of whom had come to watch Saskatchewan Express put on a couple of hours of song and dance that can't be beat. They regaled the crowd with routines from numerous Broadway shows, to the delight of the spectators.
Sunday morning started out with another breakfast and then an interdenominational church service. These were well attended. There were two other events held that afternoon -the annual Meota ADRA craft sale and a garden party hosted by Linda and Art Jones. The garden party was held in their back yard, which is a paradise to behold. As Linda put it, "She makes the decisions and he helps out." No matter what, they have one of the most beautiful gardens around. The afternoon included a variety of musical entertainment with food and refreshments.
All in all, those who had anything to do with the weekend rate it as a great success. I saw and met numerous people who had come from afar, who had some past connection to the community and have fond memories of their days here. Since we are still newcomers, we had a chance to catch up on some past history of our home and take part in helping make the weekend a good time for those who attended the events. Great thanks go out to the centennial committee and everyone who volunteered to make the weekend such a great success.
Quote: "Celebrations are times when societies, groups and members of any group where they gather to remember their past and look forward with great zeal to a future that will be the result of past triumphs." unknown
