M’CHIGEENG—The dulcet tones of masters of ceremony Stephanie Pangowish and Paul Owl were overlain with the drumbeats that are the heart of the nation, provided by host drums Crazy Spirit and Young Biisineh, as a procession of dancers entered the dance arena as M’Chigeeng First Nation proudly celebrated ‘Niimi’idwin: Dancing Together’ as the theme of the 34th annual jiingtamok. Everyone was kept strictly in line by arena director Robert Stoneypoint.
The weekend provided glorious weather, as head veterans Howard Debassige and Austin Debassige led the eagle staffs into the arena during the grand entries followed by head elders Jean Debassige and Gene Debassige, head dancers Sophie and Matthew Pheasant, junior dancers Lourdes Taukei and Pierre Debassige. A significant cadre of Manitoulin Sea Cadet Corps members also took part.
Nestled amongst the dance specials, ribbon shirt and skirt contests and spot dances was a competition for the ‘Best Rez Car.’
M’Chigeeng band manager Art Jacko stood in for the chief as former Ogimaa-kwe Linda Debassige’s term had expired the night before. He welcomed the many attendees to the community and encouraged folks to enjoy the day.
