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Work to be seen

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The Friends of the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Society is launching a rotating art exhibit in the lower level of the Jubilee Auditorium. The first exhibit will be the work of Aaron Paquette, a descendant of the Cree and Cherokee.

The exhibit, located in the Kaasa Lobby, will be available for viewing by patrons visiting the Jubilee for performances, functions and special events. The artwork featured in each exhibit will also be incorporated into the Jubilee's education programs with youth and seniors.

Princess crowned

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Nichole Weasel Bear, 21, was crowned this year's Calgary Stampede Indian Princess. The Piikani Nation resident won the title on April 23. As an official representative of the Indian Village and the Calgary Exhibition & Stampede, the Indian Princess attends various events held during the 10-day Stampede in July as well as other special events throughout the year. Nichole is currently attending the Criminal Justice/Corrections Program at Lethbridge Community College.

Calling all actors

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The Northern Light Theatre in Edmonton is holding general auditions on June 2 and 3. Artistic director Trevor Schmidt is interested in seeing only those performers he has not recently seen, or whose work dramatically differs from what he has seen them do in the past. Come prepared with a recent headshot and resume and two contrasting contemporary monologues, each no more than two minutes in length. Call Jason Magee at 451-1586 to book an appointment.

Building bridges begins with youth

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From May 30 to June 3, kids of all ages will learn about many different cultures and traditions through music, theatre, puppetry, storytelling and dance during the International Children's Festival in St. Albert.

This festival is in its 25th year of inspiring children to experience and discover the cultural richness of the world.

As part of the festival, children are encouraged to discover the cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs of First Nations, Inuit and Metis through interactive activities.

Aboriginal Human Rights Commission files complaint

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The Aboriginal Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has taken a step to voice their objection to what they allege was a racist comment in a story by writer Ric Dolphin published by the Western Standard magazine.

The story was about Alberta Premier Ralph Klein stepping down as leader of the province's ruling Conservative party, and included comments about Klein's Metis wife, Colleen.

Dolphin quoted an unnamed source as saying "Once she stops being the premier's wife, she goes back to being just another Indian."

Labour force shortage is tackled

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A new training program designed to improve employment opportunities for Aboriginal people who want to work in the trades was launched April 25 at the Boilermakers Union Hall in Edmonton.

Through the Trade Winds to Success project about 200 Aboriginal people from Calgary and Edmonton will be trained to enter the boilermaker, ironworker, carpenter, steam/pipe-fitter, plumber and welder trades.

A day to celebrate

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The National Day of Healing and Reconciliation is celebrated each year in Canada on May 26. The day provides the opportunity for individuals, organizations and communities to move past injustices towards healing. Each year communities, religious groups and cultural organizations choose to commemorate the day through events and activities meaningful to their members.