Akwesasne Winter Carnival Comes to a Close

By Ian Oakes

The Akwesasne Winter Carnival came to a close on Sunday afternoon with Sweets Jacobs doing most of the MC’ing. Debbie Thomas was promptly handed the microphone, where she told her story to the many community members that were present. Highlights of her speech were that in the 43 years she has lived down in St. Regis, having the ability to be Queen brought her full circle. Thomas told the crowd that the first committee that she joined after moving to St. Regis was the Recreation Committee. Back then there was an outdoor rink that they maintained themselves. Thomas thanked everyone and said, “She really enjoyed herself.”

Broomball! Razor sharp senses and spider like agility propel MCA to a win over SRMT. Photo by Ian Oakes.

Various thank yous were offered and a recap of the Carnival’s events was given. On top of the many events that took place during this year’s Carnival, many prizes were awarded for the various contests and give-aways.

One of the funnier moments of the closing ceremony was when the Winter Carnival King, Wayne Thomas, was drawing tickets for the grand prize drawing and no one was present, and he was relieved of choosing duty by Debbie, who picked a present winner, right off.

The winner of the grand prize drawing was April Seymour, who won a $500 gas card donated by Twin Leaf. The Phillips-Martin Family won $200 worth of fuel donated by #9 Fuels.

Afterwards, free bingo prizes were drawn until they ran out.

This year’s Carnival was a wonderful success thanks to the community and the hard work of the hosts and organizers.