Piikani remembers

Fancy Dancer Lateesha Crosschild,
Kiernan Crosschild, and Tiona One Owl
show off some handcrafted jewelry
C. Davis/T.Lucas photos/videos

Chris Davis/Toni Lucas

The Peigan Community Centre in Brocket was the site of a Memorial powwow on the evening of Friday, November 11, put on by Piikani Mental Health Services.  Emcees Eddie Bad Eagle and Kyle Blood kept the event flowing while community members mingled, sharing food and conversation.  Mary Ruth McDougall blessed the dinner. At the Elders table sat Arthur Crowshoe, Myna Lefthand, and Carl Lefthand, a well-known rodeo star from the 1950s.

Round Dance Warm Up

The artwork of Justin Prairie Chicken

 Piikani artist Justin Prairie Chicken donated two of his paintings as part of the collection of door prizes.

Arthur Crowshoe and Carl Lefthand

Chief Gayle Strikes With A Gun

"When children run, play, and laugh at a gathering, it is a blessing on the event," said Bad Eagle, as the children did just that.  Chief Gayle Strikes With A Gun spoke to the young dancers in the hall.  "You're the ones carrying on our traditions," she said. "It is through their bravery that we have the freedom that we have today."  She reminded the older people in the room to "Take care of the little ones."

"Take care of the little ones"- Chief Gayle Strikes With A Gun

Star Cardinal, healer

Star Cardinal of Piikani Mental Health Services also spoke to the crowd.  "This Remembrance celebration is not just those that fought for the Canadian government, but also for those that fought to preserve the Blackfoot culture," she said.

Cindy Buffalo had a craft table with hand-made jewelry for sale.

Cindy Buffalo's craft table

MC Kiayo Blood - "C is for cookie"

The evening's entertainment was a bit unusual, as the Piikani were also hosting a Round Dance event, to be recorded professionally for a future CD release.  The recordist was more than a little late, so a group of young men decided to keep the crowd interested with a couple of rousing warm-up songs. This is a different style of music from that usually heard here, the rhythm created with smaller drums held in the hand, the melodies a little more lilting. It was an interesting and engaging demonstration of a lyrical art form that has continued to grow and change with the times, a living music with deep roots and surprisingly modern lyrics.

All told, it was a warm and friendly event, full of fellowship and good cheer.  Thank you for inviting "The people from You-tube".

Wayen Plain Eagle, Lynol Smith, Dean Smith

Piikani Mental Health Services will be holding a Health Fair on Tuesday, November 15, from 1 to 6 pm at the Askom-Kiyii Health Services building, with door prizes and a supper at 5 pm.

Piikani Mental Health Services is open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm.

There will be a special Napi Pow Wow, celebrating 40 years, at the Pincher Creek Community Hall, January 20 to 22, 2012.  This event will included Competition Dancing, a Drum Contest, and more.  Call 403-627-4224 for more information.

Video: C. Davis