AMMSA/ARTS building officially opened

Page 1

The new home of Native communications in Northern Alberta was officially opened July 3.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the occasion for the Aboriginal Multi-Media Society of Alberta (AMMSA) and the Aboriginal Radio and television Society (ARTS).

The building at 15001 - 112 Avenue in Edmonton was purchased earlier this year and the societies moved into it in mid-March, on the third anniversary of the first edition of the AMMSA newspaper, now called "Windspeaker."

While AMMSA President Allen Jacob and ARTS President Roy Randolph held the ribbon and AMMSA/ARTS Executive Assistant Irene Willier assisted, the ribbon was cut simultaneously by former Native Affairs Minister Milt Pahl and Stan Shank, representing the federal Secretary of State, David Crombie.

Both dignitaries congratulated the society on its achievements and expressed their best wishes for its continued success.

Earlier, Elder Alfred Bonaisc of Poundmaker's Lodge had smudged the building and offered prayers.

Dozens of guests arrived throughout the afternoon to tour the building and enjoy the hospitality.

The $260,000 building provides 2,500 square feet of finished space on each of two levels, plus an equal amount of unfinished space for future development as the activities of the society expand.

The first floor of the finished portion of the building houses a reception area and the operations of "Windspeaker," the AMMSA newspaper.

In addition to offices for the editor, news editor, reporters and advertising sales staff, the first floor houses the newspaper production area, photographic darkroom and typesetter and process camera.

The second floor houses the administrative offices and boardroom and the accounting department.

Until August 1 when ARTS moves to Lac La Biche, the second floor will also house the radio studios from which "The Native Perspective" radio program is broadcast live each weekday morning on CBC-TV throughout northern Alberta.

Future plans for the space now occupied by ARTS is the development of a resource and information centre.