After the COVID pandemic temporarily suspended social gatherings, the Moose Jaw Police Service was able to once again host their annual barbecue on June 21st.
Constable Regan "Reggie" Pawliw, together with Constable Hoffman organized this year’s barbecue.
“It was just a nice turnout (and nice) to find the community back together. And basically, just have a quick chat with everyone, see how everyone is doing, and how their year is going,” said Const. Pawliw. “And again, just to build that rapport and bring the community together (made the event a success).
“The attendance was phenomenal. I would say pretty close to 200 people attended.
“Honestly, I felt it was a lot more people than I thought would come out, so I was super thrilled with that.”
Due to the nature of the job, as the police service is on call 24/7, Moose Jaw Police were unable to show a police cruiser, and the police dogs were not available at this year’s barbecue either. The availability of specialty units is never a certain thing, but Moose Jaw Police are hopeful for next year and will try again.
This year proved that there is still interest in the barbecue, and police are using this feedback to better prepare for next year's event.
“For the future, we will be looking more towards the kids,” said Const. Pawliw.
In addition to seeing many excited kids in attendance, police found that they'll have to closely monitor weather conditions at future events, as this limited some of their options.
“It was pretty windy today… we like to have more of the fun toys to give away to the kids, but again, it was just too windy today.”
With these lessons learned and with the barbecue serving as a proof of concept after the pandemic, Moose Jaw City Police are expecting an even better event for next year.
“I’m just glad to see new faces, familiar faces, have quick chats with people, and again, they were all hanging around chatting after which is good… (in order) to bring the community back together.”
