The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Herb Lake Landing held its annual Pioneer Days celebration during the August long weekend _ with revelers acknowledging the tiny hamlet's 96 years of existence at the south end of Wekusko Lake. The celebration is perennially held on the first weekend in August and features events such as a treasure hunt, paddleboat races, a sumptuous potluck supper and an enduring favourite _ the 'Courage Trail.' This year's celebration was no different than many others _ shared organization of all events saw them operating under loose timelines, participant numbers and rules. This proven formula not only optimizes involvement, but increases the fun factor. Nowhere was it more evident than during the paddleboat races. Initially set to have three participants per watercraft, before the boats even hit the water this was raised to four. After the first race, it was apparent that with two people exiting the boat and pushing, it maneuvered the course much quicker and was less likely to fill with water. Not that getting wet mattered _ long-time resident and jokester Jim Corman was at the ready to make sure no one missed out on their fair share of water! The 2013 version of Pioneer Days kicked off with the treasure hunt that was capably won by the fine folks out of the McDougall cabin. The horseshoe tournament is one of the more popular events. Played in the beachside sand, one not only had to be adept at throwing a shoe, but also at finding them! After horseshoes, the previously mentioned paddleboat races took place. They were won by a 'young guns' team of Calvin Cairns, Nick Norlock, Jonathon Young and Dionne Bartlett. Following this, people were called together for the tug-of-war. After some preliminary discussion, it was decided that the 'young guns' (under 30) would challenge the 'old man strength' (over 30) and the rope was quickly laid out and taken in hand. After a count of three and a shout of 'Go!', it was a classic case of an irresistible force meeting an immovable object. The only thing that could give, gave as the rope broke in two. Most on both sides went arse over teakettle into the sand and water. Not to be disheartened or denied, latent scouting skills were incorporated and the rope was quickly tied back together. With another count of three and shout of 'Go!', the rope broke again in a new spot. Again people picked themselves up and dusted off; however, the young fellows realizing that they were in too deep as it was and hastily forfeited to the oldtimers (at least that's how I remember it). Subsequent to the tug-of-war, everyone gathered on the front lawn of the McDougall cabin for a group photo and to partake in the birthday cake marking Herb Lake Landing's 96th year. Most people were on their own for supper, but later in the evening, many gathered in the Stabbacks' front yard for a campfire and a thoroughly enjoyable evening of entertainment put on by Dan Davie and Peter Roberts. There was a break in the revelry while the Courage Trail took place. For those scratching their heads in wonder, the Courage Trail is about a mile-long walk through thick area bush, rock and marsh. See 'Nothing' on pg. Continued from pg. Sounds not too bad; however, try doing it in the dark, with no light at all (other than apparently a few folks with cell phones), holding a partner's hand, with nothing to guide you but a string run along the course of the trail. It can be wet and slippery, as well as down and dirty! Stories from past trail treks have reached legendary proportions and judging from the talk after this one, new renditions are taking on status. It is said that there is no winner of the Courage Trail _Êonly survivors! The horseshoe tournament saw the tandem of Quinnell, B.C., resident Kevin Sales and Jim Corman win. Canoe races took place on the lake in front of McDougalls' and the father-son team of Ted and Rick Stabback came through with some poised paddling to win by at least five or six barge lengths. After several quick trips back and forth in the canoe, they seemed almost elated to hear that the canoe jousting event, which was to follow, had been cancelled. Close to 100 people showed up for the potluck supper that marked the end to Pioneer Days. It was, as always, a fabulous meal, and there was some fine conversation to be had at any table. Later, organizer Cathy Stabback announced that the scavenger hunt was a very tight affair; however, they did have a clear winner in the Corman team. Throughout the weekend, local historian Linda Butler and husband Garfield held an open house at their cabin. A number of people stopped in to reminisce about Herb Lake. Folks looked through Linda's many photo albums, talked with her about past times. A great time was had by all. My Take on Snow Lake runs Fridays.
