Sign up for the northeastNOW newsletter

SIGA honours Jim Pattison with starblanket

Aug 15, 2018 | 2:02 PM

The Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority honoured Jim Pattison this afternoon at a press conference in North Battleford.

Pattison, who is holding the corporate meetings at the North Battleford division of the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group, was honoured with a starblanket from SIGA. The blanket was presented by Patricia Cook, vice president of corporate affairs and Richard Ahenakew, general manager of the Northern Lights Casino in Prince Albert. Cook thanked Pattison for all of the work that he has done within the community and noted SIGA shares many of the core values that Pattison’s businesses display.

“One of the things we try to do is try and become a part of the community,” she said. “The work you’ve done with the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital is phenomenal; it’s something we appreciate and value. Recognizing that it’s so important to all families in Saskatchewan.”

Ahenakew explained the cultural significance that the starblanket carries, and why SIGA presented Pattison with the honour.

“There are certain gifts that you get that have not only have real significance in your life, but also cultural significance,” he said. “The starblanket is one where it’s made by our Elders. There are ceremonies that go with it and prayers that go with it. In wrapping an individual in the blanket, you’re wrapping them in all the love, the hopes, the pride of that individual and the prayers that they continue to live a long and happy life.”

Ahenakew echoed Cook, saying the values of the Pattison Group mirror the values SIGA stands for.

“As you stood and talked to your staff, it made me feel more filled with pride that you’re here,” he said. “The way that you run your company is the same way our CEO runs our company. We know the positive impact that it has on employees; I see why everyone does so well in the community.”

The Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation is committed to raising $75 million to ensure that all of the enhancements and pieces will be ready to make the children’s hospital a special place for kids, moms-to-be, and families. 

 

Editor’s Note: northeastNOW is part of the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group.

brady.lang@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @BradyLangCJNB