By TERRY PUGH
Hundreds of residents turned out for Canada Day celebrations in Warman’s Lions Park on Tuesday, July 1.
Warman Mayor Gary Philipchuk, Warman MLA and Minister of Social Services Terry Jenson, and Carlton Trail-Eagle Creek Member of Parliament Kelly Block welcomed the crowd from a large stage which sported a massive Canadian flag as a backdrop.
The three elected officials then kicked the festivities off by dishing out pieces of a Canada Day cake to the crowd. They were assisted by Warman Deputy Mayor Kevin Tooley and local Metis artist Ray Keighley.
An afternoon and evening of non-stop live entertainment was capped off by a performance by the legendary Johner Brothers and a spectacular fireworks display. Meanwhile, there was no shortage of children’s activities during the day at the family-friendly event.
Philipchuk said the City of Warman is proud to host a large public event in honour of Canada’s 158th birthday, noting the community is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.
Jenson said the wide mix of people gathered at the event demonstrates the country’s diversity and strength.
“I look around and I see people, young and old, coming from every walk of life,” said Jenson. “Saskatchewan’s motto is: ‘from many people, strength;’ and that reflects the rich mosaic of cultures, languages and backgrounds that make up Saskatchewan and Canada as a whole.”
Block told the crowd that Canadians across this great nation are joining together to celebrate the 158th anniversary of Canada’s founding. She urged everyone to reflect on the nation’s shared values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. “Let’s recommit ourselves to ensure Canada remains glorious and free,” she said.
Tooley said Canada Day provides a perfect opportunity for people to show their pride in their country, and he led the crowd in a reaffirmation of the pledge of Canadian citizenship.