The 24th Annual Watch Lake/Green Lake Fishing Derby took place June 4-5, and what a lovely weekend it was.
There were 200 adults and 20 children registered and all were trying to catch the "big one."
At the end of the derby, the first-place winner was Ted Elson from Burnaby who took home $500 for the largest fish at 5 lb. 83/4oz. and 25 inches long.
The second-place winner was Jim Klenk from North Green Lake who took home $200 for the second largest fish at 4 lb. 4 oz. and 22 inches long.
Prizes in different categories were also given out on Sunday afternoon, including the youngest and oldest fishers, as well as first and last fish on both days for the adults and children.
There were 146 fish weighed in during the weekend (107 on Saturday and 39 on Sunday). Plenty of food and drink was available during this two-day event, as well as televisions set up on Saturday evening to watch the Canucks and Boston playoff.
The Watch Lake/Green Lake Resort, Guest Ranch and Business Association organized the pancake breakfast, pig roast, the refreshment garden and live entertainment. The Watch Lake/Green Lake Community Association (WLGLCA) operated the concession and sold hamburgers and hotdogs along with other treats.
A big thank-you goes to the organizers, as well as all the volunteers who helped during this event. Everyone had a wonderful time.
Relay for Life
On June 11, the spunky "Ladies of the Lake" participated in the Relay for Life in 100 Mile House.
The weather was nasty at first and then the sun came out and lasted most of the day.
The gals walked many kilometres together and individually. The sense of friendship was strong, as they have all experienced the agony of cancer, losing friends and family members, helping others who are struggling with this disease and rejoicing with those who have beaten this demon.
Other friends in the community joined them.
There were not as many participants this year, but all who were there shared a memorable experience and they are ready to do it again next year.
The lighting of the luminary candles in the evening and the final walk, reading the very heartfelt messages, brought the 12-hour day to an amazing conclusion.
General meeting
The Watch Lake/North Green Lake Volunteer Fire Department (WLNGLVFD) summer general meeting will be held on July 3 at 1 p.m. at Watch Lake Community Hall.
Agenda items will include reports from the president, secretary, treasurer, fire chief, and there will be modifications to the bylaws. Refreshments will be served.
Please plan to attend the meeting and bring forward any questions and concerns you may have that will contribute to the continued success of our fire department.
Official count
In my last column, I forgot to mention the 'Moose Turd' draw count at the WLNGLVFD Auxiliary's Bake and Garage Sale was 1,931.
Roadside critters
It is that time of the year when we will be encountering cows and calves as well as newborn wildlife, such as fawns, kits and many other baby animals, either walking on the road or crossing.
Please be vigilant while driving along the Watch Lake and North Green Lake roads, as these young ones are not yet street smart.
Get well wishes
The Watch Lake & District Women's Institute, WLGLCA, WLNGLVFD and its auxiliary send their wishes for a speedy and full recovery to Joni Guenther, who suffered a fractured ankle from a fall and underwent surgery on June 11.