The grill was hot, the crowd was hungry, and support for local sports was stronger than ever at Wednesday’s Taste of Summer Charity BBQ, hosted by Kingston Midstream.
Held outside Local Buzz Liquor, the event raised $1,390 for Estevan Minor Baseball.
“It was fantastic,” said EMB President Mel Murray. “Tons of people came out, people I haven’t seen in a long time. It was great to catch up, and the support for the kids was really good.”
Murray said the money will be added to their budget and used where it is most needed.
“We’ll put that in the account, and at the end of the year, we’ll take a look and see where we’re going. It will definitely go back to the park. All our money goes back to the park,” he said.
The event comes ahead of a major weekend of baseball in Estevan. EMB is hosting the 11U AA Tier 2B and AAA Tier 2 Provincial Championships from July 18 to 20 across four diamonds.
“We're bringing in 16 teams, and you’re looking at 12 to 13 kids per team,” said Murray. “These are 11U kids, so grandparents and everyone comes to watch. We’re going to have a ton of people.”
Despite the scale of the weekend, Murray said his team is ready.
“We’ve had enough provincials that it’s natural for us now. Once Friday comes, everything will come together and everyone will be ready,” he said.
Planning for a tournament of this size starts months in advance, including booking hotel rooms, ordering team clothing, and prepping the fields.
“If you don’t get hotel rooms booked early, there’s so much going on that you won’t have any. The city has done a great job getting the parks ready for us,” Murray said. “Today, tomorrow and Friday are the most hectic days.”
Friday night will also include a special recognition for longtime volunteer Kevin Sliva.
“He does the books, he umpires, he coaches, he does everything for minor ball,” said Murray. “So we’re honouring him this Friday.”
Next Friday Estevan Minor Baseball will also recognize Dave Lozinsky during the 18U provincials.
“He’s run the rally cap program for years. He coaches 11U house, he coaches 18U house, and he’s very involved,” said Murray.
With Fastball Provincials, Dirt Wars at Estevan Motor Speedway, and other community events happening on the same weekend, Murray said Estevan is set for a busy few days.
“I wish the city would take note and see what comes into Estevan,” he said. “We bring in tons of people to support us. The restaurants, the gas stations, the hotels, they’re booked solid, and that’s good for the city.”
And as for the volunteers and fans who make it all happen, Murray said he is always proud to see the community step up.
“Come Saturday, when I drive by First Street and see all the cars and all the fans down at the park, that’s what gets me excited,” he said. “If you’ve got nothing to do this weekend besides the street dance, softball, or the races, come down and watch a ball game.”