CAF Snowbirds Located in Moose Jaw Fowl Suppers a Popular Prairie Tradition

The late Col. O.B. Philp had a dream and in 1971 that dream came true when a new air demonstration team took flight at then Canadian Forces Base Moose Jaw. Since then The Snowbirds, 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, has delighted crowds throughout North America with well-designed manoeuvres and a professionalism that is typical of the Canadian Armed Forces. The squadron, with its home at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, is made up of pilots, technicians, mobile support staff, resource management, support clerks, an engineering officer, logistics officer and public affairs staff coming from all elements — Air Force, Army and Navy. What to call the team was also on the mind of Col. Philp and the late Lois Boyle, his administrative assistant. A contest was conducted at the Bushell Park School and the winner was picked — The Snowbirds. The name was submitted by Doug Farmer, a Grade 6 student. In 2000, Farmer was able to fly with the Snowbirds during a media flight day at Abbotsford. Commanding Officer is Lt.-Col. Mike French of Langley, B.C. who, as a young boy, was captivated

by the Snowbirds and made it his life’s ambition to become a Snowbird. Honorary Colonel is Fred Sutherland of Moose Jaw. The Snowbirds fly the CT-114 Tutor, an aircraft built in Canada and used for basic training from 1963 to 2000. In a normal year, the team averages about 60 shows in 40 locations in Canada and the United States. Because of COVID-19 and pauses in operation, most of this year’s shows have been cancelled. More information about the Snowbirds and the team’s 50th anniversary will be available on the team’s Facebook page or through the 15 Wing website.

Fowl Suppers a Popular Prairie Tradition

Every year, rural communities across Saskatchewan come together for food and fellowship. Fowl suppers — sometimes interchangeably referred to as fall suppers — are an annual tradition on the prairies. Every autumn, people gather in churches and community halls for a community meal. It is an excellent opportunity to visit with neighbours and to celebrate the year’s harvest. Young and old alike gather at the table, while visitors are welcomed into the community with open arms. You can expect turkey with all the trimmings, while some communities might even serve perogies and cabbage rolls. Typically, there is homemade pie for dessert. Everything is prepared by community volunteers to share with the community at large. No matter the size of the com

munity, you can expect to find a fowl supper. The meals are so popular, in fact, that some people travel from community to community, creating their own “fowl supper tour.” This year, it is unknown if ongoing COVID-19 pandemic restrictions will allow communities to hold these events, but you can be sure that this is one tradition that won’t go away. Starting in September, pay attention to community listings to find fowl suppers in your area. You can also check out the Facebook group, “Saskatchewan Fowl Suppers,” which provides an ongoing listing of suppers.