Cultural Day - June 4, 2008

What a day!

What a day! Close to 700 people enjoyed an afternoon and early evening of varied entertainment, great food, games, prizes, tours, crafts, special personalities, dunk tank excitement and inspirational words from elders.

Beginning with a stunning Grand Entry, Marymound's Annual Cultural Day on June 4 was the best ever, with a record-setting 104 dancers performing this year! Add to that several jiggers, Little Hawk (aka Troy Westwood), the amazing and seemingly tireless Gaudry boys (our house band for the day) and impressive Pow Wow dancers and we had a full slate of entertainment that is second to none.

Adults tried their luck with our 15 auction prize packages and browsed the craft tables. Kids had a blast getting their faces painted, playing games, touring a police car or RCMP tepee and playing a unique version of Jeopardy!

There was plenty of food to go around, with delicious stew, warm bannock, watermelon, doughnuts and giant muffins served free of charge. Popcorn and popsicles were additional welcome treats.

Special guests included Winnipeg Police Chief Keith McCaskill and Winnipeg City Councillor Mike Pagtakhan as well as many honoured elders. We even had a visit by Hot103's Ace Burpee and Chrissy Troy as well as the RCMP mascot.

Credit goes to Marymound's Aboriginal Cultural Coordinator Charlene Calder, Cultural Assistant Dave Kabestra, and the planning committee for organizing and executing this popular event. Marymound youth and staff pitched in wholeheartedly as did a host of volunteers.

With the sound and vibrations of drumming echoing across the field, there was a truly special feeling about the day, the meaning it represents and cultural identity it conveys.

Cultural Day draws people from Winnipeg and neighbouring communities in a celebration of First Nations and Métis culture, a crucial component of the well-being and identity of many of our youth here at Marymound.

Grand Entry with Tommy Prince veterans

Regalia of Intertribal Dancers

Hot103's Ace Burpee and musician Little Hawk (Troy Westwood) were special guests

For more information contact us by email.

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