St. Paul Education Regional Division No. 1 presented its Traditional School Powwow on Friday at the beautiful Frog Lake First Nations Powwow arbor, with schools from across the division on hand to thrill at the beat of the drums, the impressive skills and ornate costumes of the dancers.
Master of ceremonies Melvin Abraham welcomed the visitors before a long line of dignitaries, led by Eagle Staff bearers from participating schools, took part in the Grand Entry. Following an opening prayer by elder Moise Paul and introductions of the guests, Frog Lake Chief Claifford Stanley, Regional Chief Craig Mackinaw gave their opening remarks. SPERD trustee Heather Starosielski told the crowd that the Powwow “celebrates our First Nations, strengthens our relationships and builds new ones.”
An Intertribal dance began the program, followed by Girls and Boys Traditional and Fancy dances, a princess pageant and the very special treat of hoop dances performed by two students, one of them only seven years old but already very proficient in the ancient tradition. The day concluded with closing comments from Glenda Bristow and Clifford Cardinal and a round dance to which all the visitors were invited to join in.
