The Western Sunsetters held their first Summer Rally at the beautiful Pike Lake Provincial Park in Saskatchewan. The event welcomed 23 Leisure Travel Van owners, representing all of the club’s provinces, and a visit from Kelly and Rob Westphal, leaders of the Midwest LTVers Travelers Club.
The rally’s chosen location, a group campsite within the provincial park, was ideal. It offered plenty of room for the vans and a wonderful backdrop for the weekend’s activities. The lovely scenery of Pike Lake, known for its calm waters and green landscapes, made the experience even better, ensuring a memorable time for everyone there.
Upon arrival, introductions were made, and registration and name tags were distributed. Each attendee was given either a Leisure Travel Van-branded travel tumbler or a cap. Once settled, everyone gathered around the fire pit for a relaxing evening of reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.
Day two began with a delicious fresh fruit and Quiche breakfast, generously provided by Julie Smith-Fehr. Afterwards, the group enjoyed a captivating presentation on Saskatchewan’s history, delivered by Jeff O’Brien, City of Saskatoon Archivist.
In the afternoon, the group embarked on an engaging excursion to the Western Development Museum, a renowned institution preserving Saskatchewan’s rich history. The prairie boomtown exhibit proved to be a particular highlight, captivating attendees with its authentic portrayal of early 20th-century life on the prairies. Visitors marveled at the meticulously recreated storefronts, period artifacts, and interactive displays that brought the past to life. The exhibit offered a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of pioneers who settled the Canadian West, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity that characterized the era.
We enjoyed a delicious evening meal in the campground recreation center: smoked pulled pork, coleslaw, and baked beans, followed by a dessert of Saskatoon berry squares. Afterward, we spent another pleasant evening around the large fire pit.
Day three of our adventure brought an exhilarating and insightful tour of the Canadian Light Source (CLS), a national research facility at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon. This world-class Synchrotron, one of Canada’s most significant scientific endeavors, captivated us with its groundbreaking research and advanced technology. Our guided tour offered a rare glimpse into the heart of scientific discovery, showcasing how the CLS utilizes powerful beams of light to probe the structure and function of matter at the atomic and molecular levels. We learned about the diverse range of applications for this research, from developing new medicines and materials to understanding environmental changes and preserving cultural heritage. It was an unforgettable experience highlighting Canada’s significant contributions to global scientific advancement.
Dinner, consisting of burgers, baked beans, fresh vegetables, and ice cream, was sourced from local suppliers and served at the campground recreation center. Group photos were taken, and prizes donated from Village RV and Mercedes Benz Regina were drawn and awarded.
Day three of our adventure dawned bright and clear, promising a perfect canvas for a day filled with delightful activities. The weather was simply glorious, with a gentle breeze and abundant sunshine, setting an idyllic scene for all our planned engagements. Many members embraced the opportunity to explore the scenic surroundings either on foot or by bicycle, travelling along picturesque trails and enjoying the fresh air. Others gathered for lively rounds of mini-golf, where friendly competition and laughter filled the air. A notable afternoon event was the casual “open house” tours of Leisure Travel Vans owned by fellow members. This provided an excellent chance to admire these beloved vehicles’ diverse layouts and innovative customizations, sparking conversations and sharing ideas amongst enthusiasts.
As evening approached, the group embarked on a short, scenic journey to the renowned Saskatchewan Berry Barn. This beloved local establishment, nestled amidst fields of ripening berries, offered a charming and rustic setting for our pre-arranged tour and dinner. We were treated to an insightful Berry Farm tour, learning about the cultivation and harvesting process of various berries. Following the educational tour, everyone gathered for a delicious dinner, featuring fresh, local ingredients, including an array of delectable berry-inspired dishes. The day concluded with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, marking another memorable occasion.
Day four was dedicated to travel preparations, heartfelt goodbyes, and exciting plans for future adventures. We cherished our time with fellow club members and are grateful to the wonderful Rally coordinators and volunteers who made the event successful.
Written by: Linda & Rob Clark
This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://leisurevans.com/blog/the-western-sunsetters-summer-rally/