Indian Time - A Voice from the Eastern Door

This past Friday the Saint Regis Mohawk Office for the Aging honored the winner of the 2nd Annual My Favorite Elder Contest, Mae Tarbell of Akwesasne. The award winner was selected as someone who met the criteria of being an elder who plays an important role in connecting our community through intergenerational relationships, and is an inspiration to others to follow their lead.  

In front of a crowd of over 100 friends and family, Tota Mae was honored with a reading of the nomination essay, which was read by her niece describing why she felt Mae was a worthy candidate. Mae was then presented with a framed copy of the nomination essay, a plaque, gift certificate and a bingo bag.

The inscription on the plaque Mae received reads: “The My favorite elder award for 2011 is presented to Mae Tarbell for the significant impact you have made in the lives of others, and for being a positive role model to our future generations.”  Mae’s name was also added to a perpetual plaque hanging in the Tsi Tetewatatkens building joining last year’s award recipient Howard Porter.

Runner-up Edith Rybke was also presented a framed copy of her nomination essay and a gift certificate by Program Manager Lacey Peters. After the presentations were made, guests enjoyed entertainment by the Lime Hollow Boys well into the evening.