News Briefs

Take a new look at education

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SASKATCHEWAN - The Battleford Tribal Council presents First Nations Education in the New Millennium at the Don Ross Community Centre in North Battleford on Feb. 14 and 15. Comedian Don Burnstick will perform, as will singer Lori Church. Featured speaker on Feb. 14 is Barbara Coloroso with a presentation called Kids Are Worth It: Parenting with Wit and Wisdom. Raising responsible, resourceful, resilient, caring children. This is a two-hour information session "packed with solid practical advice for parents of children from toddlers to teenagers." Day two features an address by Phil Fontaine, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations. Professional education workshops will interest anyone in the education field. Call Patricia Atcheynum at (306) 445-9400 for information.

New honor for star

ONTARIO-Governor General Adrienne Clarkson announced about 80 appointments to the Order of Canada, including actor-musician Tom Jackson, and educator Helen Manyfingers of Cardston, Alta. Manyfingers, named a Member of the Order of Canada, is discribed in a news release from the Governor General as "a leader amongst her people." After teaching for many years, she went back to school to further her education at the University of Lethbridge, where she was one of only a handful of single, Aboriginal parents attending university. She has been a strong supporter of First Nations control over their own education and has encouraged Native adults to continue their studies. In addition, she has served with many academic institutions. Jackson was named an Officer of the Order of Canada, and is discribed as "a popular television, film and musical artist." Jackson has used his talents to help many people in need across Canada. Through his annual Huron Carol Benefit Concert series, he has raised funds for various food banks, soup kitchens and charities. In addition, through his Dreamcatcher tour, he educates people about the impact of suicide within a community. Along his personal journey, he has never forgotten his Aboriginal roots and persons in need.

Edmonton man named to new post

SASKATCHEWAN- Wanuskewin Heritage Park near Saskatoon has a new chief executive. George Brosseau, a Metis from Edmonton, assumed the park's top position earlier this month. Brosseau has 22 years experience in tourism, business and economic development. Before going to Wanuskewin, Brosseau served as program manage and chief administrative office with the Kootenay Regional Metis Association in Cranbrook, B.C. He also served as executive director of economic development for the Athabasca Tribal Council in Fort McMurray. Brosseau was born in Calgary, raised in Edmonton. The Wunuskewin Heritage Park is one of the most well-known Aboriginal cultural exhibits in Western Canada and expects to attract upwards of 70,000 visitors this year.

Good cause

ALBERTA-The Calgary Urban Aboriginal Outreach Project, which deals with many high risk people, is planning a night of entertainment as a fundraiser. The Feb. 19 event is called Strengthening Our Relations. The non-profit group deals primarily with AIDS/HIV issues, but also does referrals, advocacy, crisis and career counselling, education training and cultural advising. Doors for Strengthening Our Relations open at 6 p.m. at Hillhurst-Sunnyside Community Association and performances commence at 7 p.m. Included in the line-up is three-time world champion hoop dancer Quentin Pipestem. Singer Wendy "Oti" Walker, and musicians Naomi Saulteaux and Walter MacDonald are also on the agenda. The evening is free, but donations will be gratefully accepted. Call (403) 262-5963.