Conference to look at resources

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The third annual International Child Conference will be hosted at the Convention Centre in Calgary on Oct. 7 ? 10 this year.

The conference objectives are "to present ways and means that will enable Aboriginal people to utilize their community and cultural resources in assisting the development of a positive future for our children."

Organizers from Alberta, one of whom is Lloyd Sutton, hope to present Native arts and crafts as a cultural resource at the conference. They have made provisions for a trade show to run in conjunction with the event. They are also allowing the craftspeople access to free booth space. The exhibitors will need only to provide their own transportation and accommodation expenses.

The trade show will be coordinated by Martha Campiou-Zarutsky of Edmonton, craftsperson, designer of contemporary and traditional clothing and president of the White Braid Society dancers and drummers.

Artists and craftspeople from across the country have been invited. The response has been good and Campiou-Zarutsky commends the organizers for the free booth space. AT other events, craftspeople sometimes pay exceptionally high booth rates that can range up to $500. She also points out craftspeople and artists have a high overhead expense and other organizers should realize this. She states, "It's always been my belief that there needs to be promotion for artists and craftspeople who work on a small scale and free booth space at this conference will enable access to consumes due to the large international attendance."

Also scheduled on Oct. 8 is a fashion show "Native Reflections" presented by Campiou-Zarutsky, White Braid and Driftpile Wasisquan Dancers.

The trade show application deadline has been extended to Oct. 5. For information contact Campiou-Zarutsky at 447-3493.