Chief and Council Report January 2010

An estimated 1,500 people joined in the celebration on Wednesday, December 30th when the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch made a stop in Rama First Nation on its journey across the country. Wyatt Simcoe, Rama's community torch bearer, started at the Rama Country Market, curving his way through crowds in the the Administration parking lot to the stage in front of the Seniors' complex. The "Bear Spirit Singers" from the Mississaugas of New Credit First Nation provided an honour song to accompany Wyatt on his journey with the torch to the stage. The group is made of members of Wyatt's family who wanted to play something special to honour his participation.

Elder Myrna Watson provided a beautiful opening prayer and the MKES choir sang "O Canada" in Ojibway. Chief Sharon Stinson Henry spoke about the importance of the Olympic torch as a symbol of unity, peace and accomplishment. She also talked about a special connection to the torch through her husband, Walter, who represented Canada in boxing in the 1964 and 1968 Olympics.

Deputy Fire Chief James Simcoe, the Honourary Fire Keeper for Rama, provided a blessing for the Olympic Torch. He spoke about the importance of fire, representing cleansing and renewal. He smudged the torch as part of the blessing. The Rama Drum played as the torch left the stage and continued on its historic journey from the community.

The event featured sleigh rides between the MASK and Administration building, pick up hockey, face painting and refreshments provided by our community caterers, Complimentary ice blue hats and Olympic flags added to the colorful event. On the following pages, we have included some pictorial highlights.

The torch is continuing on its way towards Vancouver for the opening of the Olympic Games February. Miigwech to all who assisted in the preparation for this event especially our Facilities and Maintenance staff who were up early to set up the stage and audio system for the event.