Article appeared in the June 23 issue of the Interlake Spectator…
Jamboree at Inwood Hall
“The hall is the meeting place of the community. Lots of events take place here. We are trying to raise enough money as we can,” said Shannon Dupont, Chair of the Madeline Armstrong Metis Local.
The money is being raised for a roof, and other costly repairs including flooring, steps, and a paint job. The Inwood Memorial Hall has been open since the mid-1940s and has been showing evidence of its age.
Members of the board and the Metis local organized the sold out fundraiser. Dupont said the Metis local wants to show its support for the community, at the same time as celebrating the Metis culture.
“We are trying to make it a festive thing, and bring a little Aboriginal flair to it,” she said.
In accordance with Aboriginal tradition, the event began with an opening prayer. Accompanied by Dupont and board member, Barbara Pfrimmer, Metis elder, Cecile Rudolfe, recited the Lord’s Prayer prior to opening remarks by dignitaries.
Lakeside MLA, Ralph Eichler, was the first to speak. Dupont then presented him with a traditional gift basket of fresh bannock, Sweet Grass, and Saskatoon jam.
Deputy Reeve of the RM of Armstrong, Carol Lavallee, followed. She commended the local for putting on the event.
Two of the scheduled speakers were unable to attend. Vice President of the Interlake Metis Association, Alfred (Buckie) Anderson, sent a letter in his place, which was read to the audience. Selkirk-Interlake MP, James Bezan, was busy helping with flood fighting efforts at Laurentia Beach. Eichler extended regrets on his behalf.
The crowd danced the rest of the night away to the music of Ivan Spence and the Burnt Wood Band, a popular Metis band from Winnipeg. Later in the evening a lunch was served. The event went on until midnight.
This was the first event of its kind put on by the Madeline Armstrong Metis Local.
“It’s been a complete success,” said Dupont.
The Madeline Armstrong Metis Local was named after a Metis woman by the name of Madeline Sanderson who was a strong figure for the community.
“She stood up for Metis Women’s rights. She did a lot of work putting the Metis in a positive light,” said Dupont.
All of the 17 members of the local grew up in the Rural Municipality of Armstrong, although some have since moved to neighbouring communities.
