The northern campuses celebrated the Games with their very own Olympics-themed Winter Festival.
The annual festival was held on Friday, Feb. 14, 2014, hosting about 50 youth from Corman Park and Buckland campuses, with a handful of special guests in attendance.
Prince Albert police chief Troy Cooper, Prince Albert mayor Greg Dionne, Cheryl Starr of Saskatchewan Advocate of Children and Youth, and a representative from Prince Albert Social Services all made a special appearance.
“I absolutely loved it,” Cheryl said of the event. “It was so inclusive and so inspiring; the staff were absolutely amazing.”
The Winter Festival Northern Olympic Games kicked off with a traditional torch lighting ceremony, with bound cat tails dipped in animal fat set ablaze by steel and flint.
The youth went on to participate in the day’s events including hockey shootouts, milk jug curling, and a kissing booth featuring Ranch horses Scotty and Rocky.
“We were absolutely thrilled with the enthusiasm, participation, laughter, and sportsmanship of the youth,” said Kevin Mugford, director of residential services. “It’s always rewarding and significantly important for Ranch Ehrlo to build on the positive reputation that we have in our local community.”
Prince Albert police chief Troy Cooper and mayor Greg Dionne look on as Cheryl Starr of Saskatchewan Advocate of Children and Youth addresses the festival participants.
“I wish every group home or facility could have an event like this,” said Cheryl. “The kids really enjoyed it, everyone had fun, and everyone was encouraged to participate. It was very uplifting.”
Klassen House took home the Shinny Cup and title of Best Unit Banner while Alex Guy House won the Northern Olympic Games with the most points.
