Kwe’,

Can it really be that we are already approaching the end of summer? The last stop on the Newfoundland Powwow trail happened this past weekend in Elmastukwek and as I reflect on all the memories made this season, I know that I will cherish them in the year ahead until we see each other walk proud in our regalia under sunny skies again.

The first stop was Conne River for their annual Powwow.  It was a big event this year, with a great turnout.  The drumming was fantastic, and I know it couldn’t have been easy drumming and dancing in the hot temperatures! It was a very positive event, and well worth the visit.

The Annual Bay St. George Powwow in Flat Bay was special for me; I got to present the Veterans Millennial Medallion to six people and this meant a lot to me.  It’s important to recognize our veterans and I appreciated the opportunity to be a part of that.  The community was welcoming as always, and it was an enjoyable time.

The Mawio’mi in Degrau got rained out badly, but that didn’t stop us! The event was moved inside to the school gymnasium and people in attendance were in good spirits.  Hats off to the planners for delivering a great event despite the rain.

I also made it to Burgeo this year, they had a nice turnout, bigger than last year.  I’m really impressed with the way the community came together to host this event, especially the women’s drumming group who have been stepping up and demonstrating great leadership.

In Corner Brook, we didn’t have the best weather but what a nice turnout.  People didn’t leave because of a few showers, either.  We were lucky to see the sun for the Sunrise Ceremony attended by 180 people, and we all appreciated the opportunity to learn and share with special guests, including Elder George Paul who wrote the Mi’kmaq Honour Song and Mi’kmaq Grand Council Grand Chief Norman Sylliboy.

I’d like to take this opportunity to give a special thank you to the organizing committees for these very important community events.  I always enjoy myself when I’m out at these types of cultural gatherings and I know it all happens with the hard work of volunteers.  I’m so proud of each and every one of you.

Likewise, big thanks to our dancers, drummers, artists and others who share their talents at these community events.  Your dedication, rain or shine, means so much.

As we head into our final year for the current Council, I look forward to continuing to work together on behalf of people and communities and many more opportunities to gather, in particular, our acknowledgement around the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation coming up on September 30.

Wela’lin

Chief Brendan