Banner year for Regina Natives

Regina opens new friendship centre

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REGINA - An official ribbon cutting ceremony instigated a celebration that not only attracted political dignitaries from various levels of government, but more importantly, individuals who were instrumental in securing the first friendship centre in this city.

It was a dual celebration, for the Native and non-Native community of Regina,

as the newest friendship centre was officially recognized once again as a service arm for Regina's Native people. Maybe more importantly, the friendship centre's 25th anniversary was acknowledged as well.

September 26, 1986, was definitely a milestone in the history of Saskatchewan's friendship centre, as this establishment celebrated its silver anniversary.

What used to be St. Thomas Elementary School, an establishment constructed in 1965, is now the headquarters of the Regina Friendship Centre. Located on Park Street and 14th Avenue, this building's above average size will allow for the delivery of numerous services not available before. What used to be ten classrooms will eventually house a day-care unit, arts and crafts programming, up-grading facilities, tutoring projects, an employment referral agency, and numerous other programs currently being developed.

"With all this additional space, we haven't even examined all potential programming that we could offer out of this building," says Tony Pelletier, Regina Friendship Centre Executive Director.

Another unique aspect of this building is that one day it will be totally owned by the Regina Friendship Centre. It will be the first service building that will be totally owned and controlled by a native group in the city of Regina, if not the province of Saskatchewan. Although most of the paper work is behind them now, paying off a remaining $130,000 in mortgage fees is a priority. This building, purchased at $500,000, including a sizable lot, has doubled in value since it was acquired in January of this year. "A smart investment," Pelletier says. A successful bingo operation is generating a healthy profit that's being directed back into the building.

Through Pelletier's established leadership, he was able to convince representatives from Saskatchewan's two major political parties to attend this ceremony. At a time when Saskatachewan voters will go to the polls, come October 20, to decide our next provincial government, attracting representatives from the two contending parties is no easy task.

Pelletier was not only able to convince these potential politicians to meet in the same room, but to put their platforms aside, and join in celebrating the grand opening/anniversary celebrations as well.

Months of planning and organizing went into assuring this events' success. All friendship centres across Canada were sent invitations. Although most couldn't come, many did send letters of congratulations. The Brandon, Manitoba Friendship Centre was able to attend, and the three representatives said they were quite impressed with the new building, as well as the celebrations.

The day's activities officially began with an opening prayer form Elder Joe Starr. Speeches were then delivered from individuals who were very instrumental in the friend-ship centre movement in this city. Eleanor Brass, an individual who was involved in the first ribbon cutting, in 1961, spoke on the centre's "humble beginnings. " She was most happy to see friends, she hadn't seen in "ages."

Bill Fayant, assistant director, informed the assembly of the centre's present programming, and spoke on the ones currently on the drawing board. Fayant then presented Pelletier with an attractive plaque with all the names of the past presidents.

After several more speeches form municipal, provincial and federal government representatives, all speaking on the centre's essential services, the ribbon was then cut.

The remainder of the afternoon featured a come-and-go tea, where there was ample opportunity for renewing of old friendshipsand the beginning of new ones. Tours of the building were conducted as well for interested parties or individuals.

The banquet got underway at 7:00 in the evening, with Elder Joe Starr saying grace. A buffet style menu was the order of the day, featuring such entrees as cabbage rolls, and dark and white meats. After everyone's appetite was dealt with accordingly, it was on to presentation of awards.

Awards were presented to individuals who contributed to the development and growth of the Regina Friendship Centre. In a surprise presentation, Pelletier was presented with a handsome beaded vest from the board of the centre, showing their appreciation for his outstanding leadership.

The evening concluded with a dance, featuring "David Bird and the Country Rockers, a local Native band fast gaining prominence. In all, our guest book indicated

we entertained well over 300 people.