Barry Brezden (centre) is flanked by Sandra Greenwood to the left and Glenda Goertzen on the right, after being named Prince Albert's Citizen of the Year. (Susan McNeil/paNOW)

By Susan McNeil

Citizen of the Year

‘He sets the bar’: why Barry Brezden was chosen P.A. Citizen of the Year

Dec 29, 2023 | 3:00 PM

This year’s Citizen of the Year said he’s all about teamwork.

Barry Brezden, who was named chairperson of the Lakeland district of the Saskatchewan Senior’s Fitness Association, was surprised when he found out on Dec. 28 that he was chosen to be this year’s honoree but immediately shared the glory.

“It takes a team effort to make anything happen, everybody knows that. You’ve got to surround yourself with good people and when you do that it’s very, very easy,” he said.

The group’s secretary, Sandra Greenwood, nominated Brezden, saying she has only known him for a short while but was impressed by his energy and commitment.

“He sets the bar and he goes night and day. Saturdays aren’t exempt. Nothing is exempt and so much work, he deserves it,” said Greenwood.

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While many of the members are seniors, the group will take anyone age 19 or older – as future seniors – and the energy level has pumped up with the addition of Brezden to the board.

“It’s hard to keep up with him but it’s very exciting and it’s all for a very, very good cause,” she said.

The Prince Albert Kinsmen help choose the citizen of the year. (Susan McNeil/paNOW)

Brezden grew up in Prince Albert and moved away for many years, returning in 2016 to help care for his brother who was ill.

He came back expecting to stay a few months and has not left, saying that his previous city of Victoria doesn’t offer anything he can’t find in Prince Albert.

“I kind of like it here because I’m one of those guys that likes four seasons and Prince Albert has four seasons.”

In addition to finding time for humour and camaraderie, Brezden has some loftier goals.

“Part of my goals and one of my dreams is to help people and here I am.”

His new title as Citizen of the Year will be formally acknowledged at a banquet in the new year, date and time to be announced.

Each year’s honoree is chosen by a six-person selection committee comprised of representatives from the Prince Albert Kinsmen and the Daily Herald.

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com