2006 CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

As we enjoy our first festive season in the Vice-Regal Office, it is my pleasure to extend greetings to you on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada. We offer you best wishes as you reflect upon the past year and set new goals for the future.

Since my installation in August, we have received a warm welcome in communities across Saskatchewan. It has been an extraordinary experience to present awards to worthy citizens from all walks of life, to ride in homecoming parades, and cut ribbons at exciting grand openings. We have been privileged to walk alongside dedicated volunteers who support worthwhile charities, to be entertained by gifted Saskatchewan artists, and to welcome Ambassadors and visiting dignitaries to our fine province. We have marveled at the majestic Nistowiak Falls in the north and we journeyed over 3,100 feet beneath the earth's surface in the potash mines of southeastern Saskatchewan. It has been gratifying to spend time with our honoured veterans and war brides.

We are thankful for the gracious and enthusiastic reception we have received at all of these memorable occasions. We are delighted that our interests in governance, post-secondary education, fitness and healthy lifestyles have been so well received.

Her Honour:
We are looking forward to spending time this month with our children and grandchildren. As Christians around the world celebrate the birth of Christ, we extend warm season's greetings from our family to yours.

His Honour:
This is a special time of year in many religious traditions. Whatever your spiritual beliefs, we wish you joy and peace as you gather with family and friends.

We think especially of the families of members of the Canadian Forces who are serving in Afghanistan; we are deeply grateful for their service, and we hope for their safe return from this important mission.

We look forward to meeting many more Saskatchewan citizens in the coming year, and we would be delighted to welcome you to historic Government House for the Lieutenant Governor's New Year's Day Levee.

May happiness and good health be yours throughout 2007.

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For More Information, Contact:

Carolyn Speirs Lieutenant Governor's Office Regina Phone: 306-787-6460