Veteran Reporter Dan Zakreski Reflects on 45-Year Career

As veteran journalist Dan Zakreski embarks on his retirement, he reflects on a remarkable career that spans over 45 years at the Saskatoon StarPhoenix. Since his first published story on January 12, 1981, Zakreski has witnessed significant changes in both journalism and society, marking the end of an era in Saskatchewan reporting.

Career Beginnings and Early Challenges

Zakreski’s journey began during his time at the University of Regina, where he was part of the inaugural class at the School of Journalism and Communications. During a challenging internship, he faced tough critiques from city editor Tom Loran, who famously questioned the quality of Zakreski’s writing. “This is sheep shit,” Loran told him, urging him to improve his skills. Despite the rocky start, Zakreski persevered, producing his first bylined article about the decline of wall calendars, which appeared on page 8 of the newspaper.

Over the decades, Zakreski reported on numerous significant events, including the shocking murder case of Colin Thatcher, a cabinet minister who killed his wife in 1983. This case, along with other high-profile stories, shaped his understanding of crime and justice in the province. “No way Ross’s boy did it,” Loran remarked about Thatcher, illustrating the complex relationships within the political sphere of Saskatchewan.

A Diverse Reporting Portfolio

Zakreski’s career has included covering a wide range of topics, from agricultural stories during the tumultuous 1980s to sensitive investigations into Satanic abuse in the 1990s. He recalls the notorious Saskatoon police Starlight Tours scandal, which significantly impacted public trust in law enforcement. “I’ve been around long enough to style both a mullet and a very ill-advised perm,” he humorously noted, reflecting on the personal and professional evolution he has experienced.

His reporting has not only chronicled events but also showcased the changing landscape of journalism. The introduction of technology transformed the profession, shifting from rotary dial phones to the speed of email and the internet. “The internet is the asteroid that killed everything from social anonymity to newspaper classified ads,” he stated, underscoring the challenges faced by traditional media in the digital age.

Zakreski also shared his experience of writing a weekly crop report in the late 1980s, where he engaged with farmers to uncover unique stories. This hands-on approach defined his career, demonstrating that the best narratives often come from the field.

The Relevance of Wall Calendars

Ironically, as Zakreski reflects on his first byline, he discovers that wall calendars, once thought to be obsolete, are making a comeback. He reached out to John Edgar, CEO of Calendar Club of Canada, who explained that calendars remain popular due to their personal connection and ability to reflect individual passions. “They serve a purpose,” Edgar noted, highlighting the enduring appeal of these traditional items.

As he prepares for retirement, Zakreski recognizes the uniqueness of his career. He estimates that he has written close to 10,000 articles, a testament to his dedication and the evolution of journalism in Saskatchewan. The stories he has told and the experiences he has shared will leave a lasting legacy in the world of local news.

Reflecting on his journey, Zakreski concludes that time is not circular but flat, filled with countless stories and memories that have defined his career. With over 16,434 boxes of time logged, he leaves behind a rich tapestry of journalism that will inspire future generations of reporters.