Fundraiser attracts talented performers

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The Kla-how-eya Aboriginal Centre has its roots firmly planted in a soil rich with culture and language. And that is thanks in part to the success of the centre's second annual Gala Feast, held May 29 at the Sheraton Guilford in Surrey.

The event, themed Strengthening Our Roots, is the largest fundraiser organized by the Kla-how-eya Aboriginal Centre of the Surrey Aboriginal Cultural Society. It was a huge success, according to Lisa Battley, who is in charge of fundraising and communications at the centre, although Battley would not say how much money was raised.

Battley noted that the first gala was held at a recreation centre, but this year, "This was a much nicer venue."

Approximately 200 tickets at $125 each were sold for the event, and guests certainly got their money's worth in an evening filled with entertainment and decadent fare.

The emcee was Old Hands, who has worked in the community for the past 10 years and is known to many as a true medicine man.

The diverse range of entertainment included fancy dancing by Ernie Philip, the Painted Pony Drum Group, Moosham Bob's Little Metis Dancers and Shyama-Priya's Dance Group. Musical guests featured the sounds of Jason Burnstick and Jason Tuesday, along with Edgar Muenala, who played a variety of pan flutes.

The blessing for the meal was conducted by Willie Pierre, an Elder from the Katzie First Nation and a cultural and spiritual leader. Guests enjoyed an abundant feast of smoked salmon with sorrel cream sauce, succotash vegetables, butternut squash and traditional buffalo stew. The dessert selection included Indian bread pudding and maple pumpkin cheesecake.

The fashion show, which took place after the feast, showcased the creations of several Aboriginal designers, including Edmund Guss, Karl Harris, Karl Morgan, Qway-Aathia, Tina Koller, Trudy Williams and Jody Wilson.

The silent auction featured more than 100 items donated by artists and local businesses. Two of the donated items-a hand-carved mask by Tom Daniels and a cedar hat created by Evelyn Evans-were raffled off.

Battley said that some of the tickets were purchased and donated to Elders and youth. Other guests included members of the RCMP and local politicians.

She explained that successful fundraising for Kla-how-eya Aboriginal Centre is integral to its operations.

The centre, which employs about 20 people, serves to promote the resurgence of Aboriginal cultures, languages and teachings and encourages individuals to become self-reliant.

Started in 1996, the centre was run out of a small warehouse.

"We purchased a building and moved into it last September," said Battley. "We went from this tiny little warehouse to a bigger space, but we're jam packed with the programs we offer."

The centre offers educational, social and cultural activities for youth, an arts program, an early childhood development centre and employment services.

"Bindiigan Place supports youth who are at risk of being homeless," Battley pointed out. "We provide a free meal, clothing and link them up to different resources in the area."