MNO Community Wellness Coordinator, Joan Panizza (right) presents a draw prize
to Margurite Martin. The painting was done by Thunder Bay artist Kevin Belmore
This year the MNO Healing & Wellness Branch was excited to launch collaborative Rendezvous celebrations with MNO Community Councils across Ontario. Rendezvous events were organized because the MNO heard from citizens that due to distance, work or other variables they often can’t attend the Annual General Assembly (AGA) and feel they miss the opportunity to connect with fellow Métis. So, this year the MNO hosted one to two-day Rendezvous events to celebrate Métis people and culture right across Ontario.
The Fort Frances and Thunder Bay Community Councils joined forces to host a Rendezvous in Shebandowan on September 17. There was a great turnout of MNO citizens from all over the Fort Frances and Thunder Bay areas. Attendees participated in wild rice harvesting demonstrations, spirit painting and Métis crafts such as making felted wool slippers. There were several draws for great prizes including a lovely painting by Métis artist Kevin Belmore. Captain of the Hunt for Region 2 Ken Simard ably served as MC for the festivities and kept everyone entertained with his good humour and positive attitude.