Niawen

September 17, 2015

The Akwesasne International Powwow Committee takes this time to congratulate the Akwesasne Mohawk Community on yet another successful Akwesasne International Powwow. We have not been as lucky with the weather for the past several Powwows but that hasn’t hampered things or deterred participation from those that continue to enjoy and support our Cultural Celebration. It is our absolute desire to remain outdoors on the beautiful grounds of the Anowarako:wa Arena but Mother Nature will have a say in that matter...but we do need, welcome and thank the rain. We want to acknowledge Anowarako:wa Arena Management and Staff for their support, patience and extra work when the decision is made to move indoors.

As we mention every chance we get, the Akwesasne International Powwow would not be possible without the support of our Sponsors, some that have been with us for some time and all of whom should share in the accolades of another successful event. We encourage the community to patronize these establishments and if it crosses one’s mind, give a niawen to them for their assistance. A big Niawenko:wa to our Sponsors:

Diamond Sponsor:

Akwesasne Community Partnerships consisting of:

St Regis Mohawk Tribe

Akwesasne Mohawk Casino

Mohawk Bingo Palace

Major Sponsors:

Mohawk Council of Akwesasne

Ontario Power Generation (OPG)

Bank of Montreal (BMO)/ Nesbitt Burns

Upper Canada District School Board

TransCanada

Corporate Sponsors:

Dr. Daniel Hovsepian

Truckstop #9 & #9 Fuels

Tarbell Management Group

Indian Time Newspaper

CKON Radio 97.3 FM

Enbridge/ Niagara Gas Transmission Ltd

CAA Management

Telus Communications

Bell Mobility

Friends of the Powwow:

Akwesasne Mini-Mart

Thomas Marina

Julia Back-Skidders

Dr. Rachel Navaneelan

Kastowah Gas

Akwesasne Tire Company

Brass Horse

Smoke Stacks

D&R Disposal

The Akwesasne Powwow Committee recognizes the tremendous contributions from the Bank of Montreal and their staff that volunteer long hours at our Entry gates and the professional handling of finances which allows us to concentrate on other areas of the Powwow. Niawen to the Point family for the use of their property for much needed over-flow parking space. They have done this since the inception of our Powwow and we are extremely grateful. We are pleased to be able to honor our Veterans and we thank the American Legion Post 1479 Akwesasne for joining us as well as those that form the congregation from Canadian Forces. Niawen to Darryl Lazore from Lazore’s Tree Service & Lawn Care for supplying our fire wood so our Sacred Fire could burn from beginning to end of our Powwow. Niawen to Becky Mitchell and Roseanne Mitchell-Terrance for assisting where needed.

The constant and heavy at times rain caused much grief but especially for one family in particular who’s camping tent and all their belongings inside were heavily damaged. The combined Emergency Measure’s Departments of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and St. Regis Mohawk Tribe, along with Anowarako:wa Arena staff came to the aid of this family of 6, supplying cots, blankets and a place to sleep...this is priceless hospitality that does not go unnoticed. Niawen Regina Jacobs and Sarah Diabo.

Last but certainly not least, we send out a Niawenko:wa to the young student volunteers that work tirelessly throughout the weekend tending to just about anything imaginable, braving the elements to assure that our guests are tended to and arrive at a clean and manicured setting to enjoy the Akwesasne International Powwow. They stay long after to clean up as well.

We look forward to next year and we extend best wishes for a healthy and prosperous Fall and Winter season. Onenkiwa:he

The Akwesasne International Powwow Committee

Larry King Co-Chair

Romaine Mitchell Co-Chair

Bonnie Mitchell

TJ Point