BBQ brings community together
- Tiffany Head | June 13, 2015
There’s nothing like a good barbeque to bring people together in the community. The sun was shining and there was a slight breeze in the air. People came from all over Regina to enjoy the free burgers, hotdogs, with two various salads and a watermelon.
The Al Ritchie Health Action Centre, in partnership with the Qu’Appelle Health Region, held their 18th barbeque this year. It started years ago as a part of the United Way caring event.
Brian Gieg, the supervisor at the Al Ritchie, said they try to connect neighbors with neighbors while they have the whole community come out.
“The goal of the event is to bring people from our program for our health action centre and the larger community once a year for a barbeque and a fun time,” said Gieg.
Everyone is welcome at the barbeque and it is a nice way to meet new people or to spend time with current friends and neighbours. This year they have added a new addition of having tables set up from other programs like, REACH, Prairie Spirit Connection, and Family Service Regina.
The event was scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. but they do not stop the event until all people have gone and had their fill, says Gieg. About 400 people attended the barbeque.
Three young girls, Chandalle Bainn, 13; Jayleen Grandoise, 13; and Bernice Grandoise, 12; have attended the barbeque a few times. When asked what they enjoyed about the event they answered, “We enjoy the barbeque and love the free food and find the activities fun.” Their parents, Rachel and Justin Grandboise, have brought them to the event for the past three years. Chandalle’s mom has brought her numerous times.
There was an abundance of activities that kept the kids busy. They had a petting zoo, Dino Bouncer, crafts and face painting for the kids, in addition they learned about bike and sun safety. They toured a Fire truck and an ambulance.
The adults also had a get to your neighbour BINGO activity. They were entertained with First Nations dancers and drummers while they ate their food.
“As part of the health region, one of our partners is eagle moon, so we have a contact there that provided the drummers and the dancers,” said Gieg.
Elder Mike Pinay blessed the food and was an announcer for the drummers and dancers. It was a nice addition for the day says Gieg. It was a successful event and the weather was perfect, it is a great way to bring people from different ethnic backgrounds together.
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