Northern residents' achievements recognized

Page 11

For some of the guest speakers and entertainers arriving in Fort McMurray for the 13th annual Regional Aboriginal Recognition Awards (RARA) on Feb. 24, the number 13 proved unlucky, with lost luggage and guitars, along with transportation bloopers.

But thanks to the quick work of local volunteers, everything was smoothed out in time and it was a lucky night for the 475 guests and 21 award-winners at the MacKenzie Park Inn.

The RARA vision statement sums up what they were all there to celebrate: "To bestow appreciation for the achievement of Aboriginal people in or from this region by recognizing excellence in specific fields, by doing this in such a way that more and more people and institutions participate in ensuring the Regional Aboriginal Recognition Awards make a positive impact on the lives of all people."

"After a few minor problems everything went great. It was one of the best yet," said committee member Kathy Rogers about the program.

The event honors Aboriginal members from the Municipality of Wood Buffalo's five First Nations: Mikisew Cree (Fort Chipewyan); Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (Fort Chipewyan); Fort MacKay First Nation; Fort McMurray No. 468 First Nation; and the Chipewyan Prairie First Nation.

"The highlight of the evening, without a doubt, was the inspirational speech of Bob (Robert) Maracle," continued Rogers, a Metis, referring to the guest speaker from the Mohawk Tyendinga First Nation in Ontario. "Telling of his accomplishments and how he got there and his own healing. And then telling you how you can get there . . . to reach for the stars . . . it left goose bumps on everyone."

The affable George Tuccaro was master of ceremonies and the entertainment was highlighted by Metis singer and recording artist Wendy 'OTI' Walker.

Lifetime Achievement

Alvena Strasbourg (Fort McMurray)

At 79 years of age it seems that the life of Alvena Strasbourg is just starting as she recently published her first book, Fort McMurray: Yesterday and Today, which is a retrospective look back on her life as a young woman on the traplines to her days in the board room.

It was in 1921, as an infant of only six-months, that Strasbourg and her family came to Fort McMurray.

During her 70 years in the region ? she has since relocated to Edmonton ? Strasbourg played an important role in the growth of the region and as a role model, not only for Aboriginal youth, but everyone.

Recognition includes the Esquao Award, Distinguished Citizen Award from Keyano College and the Lives Well Lived achievement award in Edmonton.

From 1987 to 1990, she was the director of the Metis Association of Alberta and was president of the Athabasca Native Development Corporation in 1989 and 1990.

Elder

Marie Adam (Fort McMurray)

Having had served on the boards of the Nistawayou Friendship Centre, Native Child Welfare and Keyano College, Adam continues to perform prayers by request and attends sundances.

"It was a great honor," said Adam, "a great honor to be recognized by your people."

Trapper

Muglor Grandjambe (Fort MacKay)

For more than 50 years, Grandjambe has trapped in the area. He now passes his skills and his respect for nature's gifts on to his children.

Female Citizen

Marjorie Quintal (Conklin)

Serving as president of Conklin School's hot-lunch program for the last eight years, Quintal also assists with the Conklin Fire Department, annual Terry Fox Run, the community seniors day program and the area's National Addictions Awareness Week.

Male Citizen

Daniel Roy Cree (Gregoire Lake)

Everyone has handicaps and only some are visible. After turning his life around, Cree has gained respect for others and respect for tradition. He follows these by dedicating time, helping youth to rediscover their heritage and learn time-honored traditions.

Entrepreneur

Denesoline (Fort Chipeywan, Fort McMurray)

Employing up to 80 people in the oil sands projects in environmental, janitorial and other services, Denesoline is heavily commied to the community.

This past year they provided transportation for students from Fort Chipewyan to attend the Dreamcatcher's conference in Edmonton. As well, they have served the community by providing a range of services like food catering and cleaning services.

Culture

Julia Marten-McDougall (Fort McMurray)

Raised in a traditional lifestyle, learning the skills of hunting, trapping and fishing, Marten-McDougall, born in Fort Chipeywan, has an eye for the future and a heart for the past. She recently graduated from Muschwachees Cultural College in October 2000 with honors and is presently studying for her Cree language instructor diploma.

Art

Brian Bird (Anzac)

While many boys at the age of 14 have only the patience to play video games and flip through television channels, Bird had already made his first powwow regalia. He has developed his talent to where he is now able to utilize all the mediums of art, sculpture, song, dance, handicrafts, moosehair tufting and beading.

Leadership

Margaret Quintal (Conklin)

Quintal has served on numerous boards including Conklin's community association, boarding home program, Head Start program, resource office, and the health board and advisory committee.

Outstanding Athlete

Lori Mercredi (Fort McMurray)

This all-around athlete, often selected as most valuable player, is also an honor student.

Outstanding Adult Student

Lisa King (Fort McMurray)

In her fourth post-secondary year, King is working towards a bachelor of science in environment and conservation science at the University of Alberta.

Outstanding Volunteer

Russell Quintal (Conklin)

Quintal volunteers for the Conklin Community Association, fire department and seniors' enhancement program.

Female Youth 12-18 years of age

Sophie Powder (Fort MacKay)

Powder speaks fluent Cree and in May 2000 won the Esquao Award in the Youth Role Model category.

Male Youth 12-18 years of age

Kyle Spohn (Fort McMurray)

Spohn, of Chipewyan ancestry, is enrolled in the Native Stuies program at Father Patrick Mercredi Community High School. A Grade 12 honors student, he hopes to pursue a doctorate in psychology.

Junior Achievement 7- 12 years of age

Curtis Desjarlais (Conklin); Rebecca Black (Chard ); Derrick Dumais (Anzac ); Samantha Cree (Fort McMurray Public School); Trent Shott (Fort McMurray Catholic School); Lawrence MacDonald (Fort McKay); Julie Ann Whiteknife (Fort Chipewyan).