Students meet a political ‘rock star'
Published Friday October 3rd, 2008
Walk with the premier offers insight for Nackawic students
Hundreds of students played hooky with Premier Shawn Graham in downtown Fredericton recently, but nobody got in trouble.
The event, organized by the Provincial Capital Commission, brought students from school districts 17, 18, 14 and 1, including those from River Valley Christian Academy in Nackawic, to the lawn in front of the legislature.
The event resembled an outdoor concert as students leaned over a metal fence to shake the premier's hand, get his autograph or simply catch a glimpse of him.
Many cheered and high-fived him as he approached a podium in front of the crowd.
But Graham said the outing wasn't meant to make him feel like a political rock star.
"I hope this event gives the students pride in being in New Brunswick and pride in the democratic process," Graham said after addressing the students.
"The fact is we do live in one of the best places in the world and to see so many students celebrating that fact makes this a great day and a great event."
Lee Ellen Pottie, executive director of the Provincial Capital Commission, said the purpose of the event was to promote the culture, history and diversity of the capital region as a gateway to the rest of the province.
That's the mandate of the commission, she said.
"We want to foster pride and a sense of community," Pottie said.
"What better way to do that than to start with our young people and have them visit the legislative assembly building, meet the premier and walk with him and many MLAs through our downtown and across the beautiful St. John River."
Around 2,100 students from more than 50 schools around the province took part.
Dianne Wilkins, director of education for School District 18, said she was pleased with how many students, teachers, parents and volunteers showed up.
"It's incredible," Wilkins said as she looked at the sea of students walking toward Waterloo Row. "This event impresses upon everyone the importance of physical activity and that it's fun to walk and exercise.''
The Fredericton Police Force blocked the lower end of Queen Street, Church Street and Secretary Lane on Thursday to allow the large line of students to cross the downtown walking bridge together.
Members of the commission, Canadian Forces Base Gagetown, the Capital Y's Men's, St. Thomas University and the school districts provided security, First Aid and guided students along the route.
This walk is the first in what is expected to be a series of education events organized by the commission.
More Lifestyles
Search Articles
More CE Network Sites & Partners:
