The Métis Nation-Saskatchewan (MN-S) Western Region Two put on the awards banquet Friday at Plaza 88. (submitted photo/Sherry McLennan)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

Recognizing contributors

Locals honoured by Métis Nation

Dec 2, 2019 | 2:33 PM

The Métis Nation – Saskatchewan (MN-S) Western Region Two took time to recognize some members Friday.

Over 300 people came out to Plaza 88 for the second annual Métis Inspirational Gala. Sherry McLennan, regional director for western region two, which covers Prince Albert and the surrounding area said her organization feels it is important to acknowledge the contributions of members.

“Just recognize them and say ‘Hey, we know that you’re doing a good job out there,’” she said.

One of the honourees was elder Julie Pitzel, who has worked with the police in P.A. and other organizations to help them understand Indigenous customs and protocol. Artists were also honoured, including musicians Donny Parenteau and Grant Kimbley.

Organizers also took time to remember the late Ron Gunville, for his contributions in the sports world.

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“His name will liver forever in our community, because he did so much for sports,” McLennan said.

Award winners were provided with a certificate from MN-S and also received a nation flag and Métis sash. Along with McLennan, MN-S President Glen McCallum was also on hand to present the awards.

Troy Parenteau, a teacher and political candidate was recognized Friday. Parenteau was acknowledged for the work he is doing in provincial politics as a candidate in the upcoming provincial election and for his service to the MN-S over the years.

“It was a great feeling,” he said.

Parenteau added it is an exciting time as he has noticed a resurgent energy in the Métis community. He said the event was nice also as it acknowledged people who don’t generally get much recognition.

P.A. Police Sgt. Troy Dumont was another person acknowledged Friday. Dumont said he was humbled by the recognition and especially appreciated receiving the justice award.

“Even just the name for the award was just a big proud moment for me, and you know for my Métis heritage,” he said.

Originally Dumont was set to attend the banquet as part of the honour guard and to help out with the ceremonies. He learned a few days before that he would be recognized, which was a surprise at the time.

Dumont said a number of the speeches he heard over the evening stood out. However, he was especially impressed by local entrepreneur Cody Demerais and how he spoke after receiving his award.

“I can tell you, just from his experience, from his personal experience in his life, that he spoke of that night, from something bad, to bringing him where he is today, [that] was inspirational for me,” he said.

Dumont added he was thankful for McLennan and her team for putting on the event. He said looking toward the future as the country moves towards reconciliation.

“I think it’s only going to grow,” Dumont said.

Over 300 people were at Plaza 88 Friday for the banquet. (submitted photo/Sherry McLennan).

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn