Visit to Saskatchewan - Day 1

Upon their arrival in Prince Albert, Their Excellencies the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and Mrs. Sharon Johnston were welcomed by Their His Worship Jim Scarrow, Mayor of Prince Albert, and Mrs. Helen Scarrow and other dignitaries.

In preparation for this discussion, students used Eduzone, a new online tool designed for teachers, educators and students across Canada. Eduzone provides educational and multimedia resources about the governor general’s role and the history of the position. This tool was launched by His Excellency on October 1, 2012, on the occasion of the second anniversary of his installation.

His Excellency hosted a discussion with over 400 students in grades 7 and 8 from six area schools on the role and responsibilities of the governor general of Canada. During the discussion, students asked His Excellency questions about his constitutional role; his responsibilities in representing Canada at home and abroad, and as commander-in-chief; about recognizing excellence and achievement, and about how he brings Canadians together, from coast to coast to coast.

His Excellency was greeted by Grand Chief Ron Michel for a meeting with 12 chiefs and eight senators from the Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC). The PAGC focuses on the protection and implementation of the Treaties signed by First Nations and the Crown in right of Great Britain in 1876. The council is also committed to supporting its member First Nations achieve and implement independent, progressive self-governments and to improving the quality of life of their constituents through appropriate and productive social and economic strategies.

The discussion allowed for members of the PAGC to share with His Excellency the challenges they face within the community.

In honour of Their Excellencies’ visit, the Mayor of Prince Albert His Worship Jim Scarrow hosted an event during which the Governor General addressed community members and presented the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award to Barbara Hogeweide. Barbara Hogeweide has shown a long commitment to community service. Among others, she has given her time to support the Calvary United Church, Broadway North Theatre Company and the YWCA. She also plays a significant role in the Prince Albert Arts Board, notably lending her financial management expertise to the organization’s activities.

The Caring Canadian Award was also presented to Fern Lloyd. For three decades, Fern Lloyd has shared her time, energy and compassion through the Canadian Cancer Society’s CanSurmount program. A cancer survivor herself, she has long provided support, comfort and encouragement to others diagnosed with the disease. She and her husband have hosted an annual picnic at their home for many years, which was considered a highlight of the community’s social calendar, filled with good food, friends and hope.

The Caring Canadian Award was also presented to Taylia York. From a very young age, Tania York has understood the meaning of the word “give”. She spends most of her free time teaching a mentally challenged woman in her mid-40s how to read and write. Miss York also volunteers at a senior’s home and at the SPCA of her region. She is a wonderful example of how we can change the world for the better, one person at a time.

Her Excellency Sharon Johnston met with staff from the Ranch Ehrlo Society and participated in an equine assisted training exercise with at-risk youth. Over its 45-year history, the Ranch Ehrlo Society has developed unique and innovative programs to assist children, youth, families and communities. Their mission is to provide a continuum of quality preventative, restorative and advocacy services, promoting the well-being of individuals, families and communities through the elimination of abuse, neglect, addictions and violence, in Saskatchewan and beyond.