AUNDECK OMNI KANING—Driving into the parking area of the Aundeck Omni Kaning powwow grounds this past week, one is struck by the vast number of vehicles lining the roads and filling the newly expanded parking lots to the brim. This year the Jiingtamok, themed ‘Remember, Connect and Revive,’ was blessed with record numbers of attendees, vendors and dancers.
Host drum Blacklodge Singers travelled all the way from Washington, DC, and proved to be a significant draw to the event, with co-hosts Young Biisineh being no slouches on the drum either.
Mista Wasis provided master of ceremonies duties, with the redoubtable Robert Stoneypoint acting as arena director. Head dancers were Mike Ramsdin and Mariah Abotossaway and junior dancers were Lusian Behm and Chantal Atkinson.
Despite some threats of rain, the weekend remained dry, although smoke from the raging forest fires across the North Shore proved challenging for those with allergies or asthma. Unfortunately, the fire ban imposed across the Island and Northeastern Ontario led to cancellation of the planned fireworks.
The powwow began with a sunrise ceremony at dawn at the sacred fire, with grand entry taking place at 12 pm-ish and 7 pm on Saturday and 12 pm on Sunday.
“Welcome to our community,” said Aundeck Omni Kaning Chief Patsy Corbiere as she carried the community flag to its posting alongside of the arbour. “We hope you all enjoy yourselves today and tomorrow.”
Powwow coordinator Mandy McGraw said she was grateful to her powwow committee members, Vanessa Nebesnuik, Beverly Wilson and Mariah Abotossaway for their efforts. For Ms. McGraw and her team organizing the powwow is a work of passion—all done as volunteer effort.
“We have had some great sponsors this year,” noted Ms. McGraw, especially Cole Munro, which donated not only the water and ice, but provided the fish for the feast. “I also have to thank chief and council,” she said. “As well as Noojmowin Teg and Mnaamodzawin for their support. These things matter,” she said.
As part of the powwow veterans’ greeting, the veterans of the Sgt. Charles Golden Silver Star Rifle Team provided a 21-gun salute. The rifle team has been adopted by Aundeck Omni Kaning as its base community. Comrade Roy Eaton did honours on the bugle for the ‘Last Post’ and ‘Reveille.’ Veteran Wayne Golden, founder of the rifle team, directed the team in its observances.
A family of visitors from Mississauga who were taking in their first powwow said it all with their bright and broad smiles.
The powwow provided an opportunity for old friends to catch up, and for the making of new acquaintances.
