Tyler Walker
Education
Academic/Scholastic Achievement
Male

Tyler Walker is from the Okanese First Nation. He is 17 years old and is currently enrolled in grade twelve at the Balcarres Community School. Tyler is an honor student and maintains an extraordinary attendance record. Tyler not only excels in his academic performance, he has shown exceptional leadership skills and superior sportsmanship skills. Those who know Tyler recognize his many contributions to his peers and within the community.

Jessica Missens
Education
Academic/Scholastic Achievement
Female

Jessica is from the Pasqua First Nation. She is 16 years old and is a grade twelve student at the Bert Fox Community High School. She is an “A” student and will likely graduate at the top of her class. While Jessica maintains outstanding grades, she also finds time to work and volunteer for different activities. Jessica also demonstrates her leadership skills through sports, and lives a happy and healthy lifestyle.

Joseph Lachance
Education
Teacher/Instructor/Para-Professionals

Joseph is from the Whitefish Lake First Nation. He has been teaching for the past twelve years. Although he has faced many challenges throughout his life, he has overcome them, and has maintained a strong cultural background. He demonstrates great ability in dealing with our youth, and serves as a great role model for our youth and our communities.

Sarah Longman
Education
Support Staff/Administrator

Sarah is from the George Gordon First Nation. She has many years of experience in the education field, and notably in the area of educational administration. She has assisted many and been an inspiration to many of her students and colleagues over the years. Sarah’s commitment and vision with respect to educating our youth has not gone unrecognized.

Danna Henderson
Education
Post Secondary

Danna is from the Pasqua First Nation who is currently enrolled in the Indian Communication Arts (INCA) program at the First Nations University of Canada (FNUC). She has currently completed her second year. Those who know Danna see the positive drive and determination to succeed and speak out on issues relative to First Nations youth, by participating in youth activities, namely the International Youth Parliament. She is an inspiration and great role model for our First Nations youth.

Team Saskatchewan
Girls Hockey Team / Boys Hockey Team
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Team

The Team Saskatchewan Girls / Boys Hockey Team is comprised of Aboriginal youth both First Nation and Metis from throughout Saskatchewan. Selection for the team began in December and concluded in March. There were 4 camps with over 200 youth trying out. There were 23 male and 22 females that were selected and made the trip to Miramichi, New Brunswick to represent Saskatchewan at the 2005 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships. The trip was a success, both the teams lost close games in the semi finals however they both were able to claim the bronze medal. Team Saskatchewan was the only province to medal in both the male and female divisions. The athletes represented Saskatchewan with pride and class and were great role models

Jaydon Campbell
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Amateur Athlete

Jaydon is from the English River First Nation. She is eleven (11) years old and is in grade six at the Valley View School in Beauval, Saskatchewan. She has excelled in many sports, most notably in hockey. Over the last five years, she has received 30 medals for sports such as hockey, soccer, softball, and track and field. She was the youngest player to play in the 2005 FSIN Tournament where she played 5 games and scored 16 goals. Her strong determination to succeed in sports remains an inspiration to us all.

Trenton Campbell
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Professional Athlete

Trenton is from the English River First Nation. He is 23 years old. He is presently on a four year scholarship, attending the Lake Superior State University, in the state of Michigan, majoring in Business Administration. He played Junior A hockey with the La Ronge Ice Wolves, receiving eight (8) awards over two (2) years. Trenton is also only 1 of 2 Aboriginals to have ever played with the Lake Superior State University hockey team, and in the 2004/2005 season, he received the Soo Liner’s Player of the Year Award.

Denton George
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Coach

Chief Denton George has been involved in sports for a great number of years. After competing as a player he channelled his compassion and competitive spirit in sport to that of coaching. Denton has always been a fierce and knowledgeable competitor and he carried that on with his coaching style. He never allowed his teams to back down to challenges and even when all seemed lost he motivated his team on to victory or a respectable performance. As there are never any losers on his teams, no matter the outcome he ensures at the end of the game the are proud of their accomplishments.

Some of his most recent accomplishments include:

These are just a few notable achievements. There are many more to numerous to mention. Chief George is a very humble individual and does not keep track of such accomplishments. His satisfaction comes from the fact that he can continue on being involved in sports through his coaching efforts. The young men and women who are under his watch he hopes will benefit not only in sport and recreation but in someday becoming great role models for our First Nation future. We thank Chief George for passing leadership qualities both on and off the ice or field.

Brian MacDonald
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Founder/Builder

Brian MacDonald is a member of the Onion Lake First Nation and was the eldest of 10 children to Ivan and Edna MacDonald. He is currently the Cree Immersion Curriculum and Resource Development Coordinator on his reserve. Brian has spent most of his life teaching Cree Language to children and this is how he came to record his first tape of songs. This recording is known and used by many First Nations and Provincial Schools throughout the province, as well he initiated the first Cree Immersion Program in Saskatchewan! Brian not only achieved in what he believes, but the biggest achievers are the young children who are given a chance to learn and maintain their language through Brian’s Cree immersion class. He continues to be a mentor for language survival to all who know him and those who heard of his projects.

Lawrence McIntyre
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Volunteer

Lawrence McIntyre is from the English River First Nation. He is married to Celina, has three boys; Jeffery, Nevin, Kelsey, and one daughter; Sheena. He is also a grandfather to two grandchildren; one boy and one girl. Lawrence has been for most of his life involved in sports. As a young child, he participated in different sports, and continues to run today. He has coached many different sports, mainly hockey; he holds a Level III hockey coaching certificate and coached AA Hockey for a few years. Coached and help coordinate in SK First Nations Summer/Winter Games and NAIG for a few years. Lawrence’s love for sports has devoted many of his volunteer hours with youth. Lawrence is well known up north for his love for sports which led him to knowing all the Aboriginal athletes nationally. He also knows them by name, can you believe that? If you want to know where an athlete is, just ask him.

Ashley Budd
Sports, Culture, Youth & Recreation
Youth Role Model

Ashley Budd is from the Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation. She is 15 years of age and attends the Willow Cree Education Complex and is in Grade 10 & 11. She maintains a 90% average and enjoys acting, writing and reading. She has won the following Awads: Chief John Eyahpaise Memorial Award Most Improved 1995 / 96; Will Cree Education Complex Student of the month for May 1996, February 1997, October 1997, October / November 2002 and April 2003. In addition to these she has won the honor roll in the fall of 2004. She has attended two youth conferences for Youth Action Now and is in the process of applying to go to Ottawa to meet with the Prime Minister on how to improve awareness in academics to Aborginal Youth Now. Ashley’s goals are to finish High School and go to University to take Education.

Lorne Carrier
Art/Culture/Music

Lorne Carrier is from the Piapot First Nation. He is dedicated to the promotion of cultural awareness in Saskatchewan. Through his many years of work in the museum and heritage community, he has made significant contributions in the areas of heritage / cultural retention and awareness of First nations cultures and traditions. Lorne has worked for many years at the local and provincial level in the areas of repatriation and policy development. The following is a brief list of Lorne’s accomplishments: 1992 – 1995 Lorne was instrumental in developing the programming and led tours at the Wanuskewin Heritage Park; lectured at schools, educational institutions and conferences on behalf of Wanuskewin. 1995 – 2000 Worked with the provincial governments Heritage Unit and was instrumental in the development of policies regarding the identification, access and protection of sacred sites on provincial crown land. He established a First Nations Elder’s Advisory Committee comprised of representatives from Saskatchewan’s five cultural / linguistic groups. 2001 – 2002 Lorne was a Curator of the Treaty Four Keeping House & Archives in Fort Qu’Appelle and today He works as the Community Development Manager at the Museums Association of Saskatchewan in which he is in charge of the Museum Grant Program which distributes operating funds to museums across Saskatchewan.

Chris Arcand
Health
Healing and Policy Initiative
Individual

Chris Arcand is currently the designated Nurse Practioner – the third such registration in Saskatchewan! In addition, she has been a foundational part of the Battlefords Family Health Centre – the first primary health care site in Saskatchewan which is in partnership with the Battlefords Tribal Council. This Beardy’s First Nation band member was responsible for setting up of this clinic which included establishing protocols, determining the types of equipment needed and designing forms to record clinical information. Chris has her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc.N.) along with her Advance Pharmacolory in 2001. Chris’s dedication stretches over all her life including her faith and her family. Along with Brian, her husband of 25 years, Chris has encouraged and enspired their children as they too develop their musical talents and pursue their own careers. Chris, truly, is a role model for the nursing profession.

Yvette Sunchild
Health
Healing and Policy Initiative
Individual

Yvette is a member of the Thunderchild First Nation and grandchild of late Elder Norman Sunchild. She is currently employed as the Home and Community Care Coordinator with FNIHB. Prior to this she worked in the Community Care Branch with Saskatchewan Health in Regina. Yvette currently sits as a member on the following: Workplace Diversity Planning Team at Saskatchewan Health as a representative for Aboriginal employees; Provincial Diabetes Advisory Body; and recently was selected as one of the Aboriginal Role Models by the Provincial Aboriginal Representative Workforce Council. Her poster and personal background will become a part of the career kits developed for Grades 1 – 12 and will be sent to various schools throughout Saskatchewan. (website: saskjobfutures.ca). At Sask Health, Yvette has taken on the initiative of forming a unified group of First Nation, Metis and Inuit employees network, creating a more welcoming workplace environment for Future First Nations people. She does this by creating cultural awareness and providing input into the Department of Health’s policy development. Yvette certainly learned from her grandfather as she continues to strive and pave the way for future First Nations peoples.

Okanese Community Wellness Team
Health
Healing and Policy Initiative
Community

In the spring of 2004 , after many years of negotiatin and advocacy on behalf of their community, the Okanese Chief and Council embarked on a partnership project with the federal government, represented by a number of departments. The Okanese Community Wellness Team began their 14 – week Training in July 2004 from the Nechi Institute. This resulted in 12 team members getting certified in Community Addictions Training, Advanced Counsellor Training and Family Violence. This team will travel to Nechi Institute in Edmonton to formally graduate as members of the Nechi Institute on June 11, 2005. While they were receiving training, the team members began putting into practise what they were learning in their own families and in the community. Regular team meetings were held to begin to identify needs within the community and to plan events and celebrations that would engage the whole community in the Wellness Project. The Team has taken responsibility for hosting a number of community events including: Veterans’ Day celebrations, Community Childrens’ and Elders’ Christmas party, a round dance and a Community Fall Supper. Community Sharing Circles began in November, and have been held on a weekly basis since that time. In December, team members as well began organizing and working with the Youth in the community. The youth were divided into two groups – a youth team for ages 12 – 18 and an Adult Youth team aged 19 –30. Both youth groups have been very active in organizing activities, workshops and developing plans that will contribute to the health and wellbeing of youth in the community. The fruits of this work are evident all aspects of life within the community and the community members are interested in the work of the Wellness team and continue to offer their support and volunteer their time to work with the youth teams in their activities. The Community members eagerly anticipate upcoming events planned by the Wellness team and more importantly, there is a change in attitude within the community. This team have shown courage, persistence, compassion and leadership in taking the risks necessary to create, change, within themselves, their families and their community.

Ernest Maurice
Health
Youth/Adolescent Tobacco Control Initiative

Ernest is a 16 year old of the Birch Narrows First Nation who lives and attends school in the community of La Loche. He has consistently demonstrated his commitment to his education. One of his aspirations is to one day have a career in the medical field. He balances well the time between his academics and extracurricular activities. His recent academic and extracurricular activities have earned him a nomination for the Lieutenant – Governor’s Award. Ernest acknowledges guidance from his grandparents who have raised him since a year old and have helped him to avoid any use of alcohol or drugs / tobacco free lifestyle. Ernest’s academic consistency, involvement in competitive archery, positive attitude contribute him to this Youth Award.

Shayna Favel
Sask First Nations Network on Disabilities / Health
Child/Youth Leadership (8-18)

Shayna is from the Sweetgrass First Nation. Shayna has a disability called Friedrich’s Ataxia which is an inherited disease that causes progressive damage to the nervous system resulting in symptoms of muscle weakness and speech problems. She has been in a wheelchair for 9 years and has minimal use of her arms and hands. Aside from all of her physical problems, she has been able to successfully meet all of the requirements for a full grade 12 standing! Her graduation is on June 29th, 2005 and plans to pursue her post secondary education in Saskatoon. She is actively involved in swimming, computers, music and reading. Shayna has long accepted her disability with a positive manner and has been able to provide a positive outlook on life for all of her peers. With the encouragement from family and friends: Shayna continues to face all the challenges head on and exemplifies great courage every day. She is truly a determined, courageous individual and is deserving of this award.

Doreen Baptiste
Sask. First Nations Network on Disabilities / Health
Adult Leadership (19-59)

Doreen is from the Cowesses First Nation and is currently employed by the North West Territories Justice Department. She is the proud mother of three children – Faron, Cecilia and Dale. Doreen has lived with the effects of cerebral palsy since infancy, yet her physical disability and visual impairment have never deterred her. In 1984, Doreen graduated with a Bachelor of Education degree specializing in Elementary Education. In 1985, she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and in 1994 she graduated with a Masters of education degree. Since 2002, Doreen has worked extensively in the area of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders with the Justice Department. Based on Doreen’s extensive training and work experience, she has been asked to speak on several issues such as: FASD and Active Living; Polio: Then and Now; Communication Strategies for Adults with FASD - - to name a few. Doreen does not let her disability interfere with her goals and is determined to achieve them. She is truly deserving of the Adult Leadership Award.

Annette Naultcho
Sask. First Nations Network on Disabilities / Health
Elder (60 & OVER)

Annette is from the Buffalo River First Nation and is 67 years old. She worked as the Community Health Representative from 1972 – 1982, promoting the well being of her neighbors, delivering babies and teaching others, as well as providing a bridge with nurses and doctors. In March 1993, Annette underwent a hip replacement surgery which developed an infection and thus the hardware was removed from her hip. Since this final surgery, Annette has been confined to a wheelchair. She says it was very difficult to accept it at first but today accepts that this is part of who is she is. Today Annette is busy working with the Disability Group for the Meadow Lake District and has been a vocal advocate for those who live with disabilities. She has been a key person in getting ramps and other building modifications put in place so public buildings would be accessible for everyone in the community of Dillon. Her latest job was being a security at the local store - - the MINI MART where she proudly does this duty from her electric scooter. Her life truly has made an impact for her community and is well deserving of this Award.

John Sutherland
Sask. First Nations Network on Disabilities / Health
Elder (60 & OVER)

John is from the Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation and is 72 years of age. He is a father of 10 children and numerous grandchildren and great – grandchildren. John has been blind now for 30 years from glaucoma and he has learned to live with his disability. He has been able to overcome his disability and has been active member for his band.

Following are the Boards that John is an active member in:

Henry Felix
Prince Albert Grand Council
Economic Development
Housing Innovative Award

Mr. Felix has been the Director of Prince Albert Grand Council Engineering and Technical Services for the past 20 years. Back in 1985 was first employed as the Fire & Safety Inspector and in fact was the only person in that office. Through the years, Henry has seen many changes being to the amount of staff members that he now directs which is 16 staff members. Henry believes that the Youth should be given the chance to enhance their learning abilities and thus promotes the Youth Internship program. Mr. Felix as well supports the training plans that are proposed for the membership of PAGC First Nations and is involved for the initial start of training plans until the final plan has been negotiated and finalized. Under the direction of Henry Felix, PAGC has become the first aboriginal organization in Canada to deliver EnerGuide Houses (EGH) which is a home energy evaluation service. By becoming involved in the delivery of the EGH service, this helps to free up scarce operating dollars from the shelter allowance and put them towards the capital construction budget. Congratulations Mr. Felix!

Eva Lizotte
Economic Development
First Nation Businessperson

Eva Lizotte a name that is well known in Indian Country. She is the proud owner of Kihiw Crafts which is aboriginal owned and operated. This company was formed by Eva who had a dream of being her own boss, traveling and doing what she loves the most, her crafts. She came up with the name of her company from her Cree Name “Kihiw Iskwew” which means Eagle Women. Eva is known Saskatchewan mostly by her Cree name which is on all her business cards as well as her English name. She has a chuckle sometimes because for those who are not familiar with the Cree Language sometimes asks her which one is she. It has been a long road, one with bumps and holes but also one with many treasured experiences. Kihiw Iskwew has spent approximately the last ten years traveling what is referred to as the “Pow-wow Trail” which is where native people gather in celebration all across Canada and the United States. She has mostly stayed in Saskatchewan the last five years spending more time with the Elders from her home area. In her crafts and her beadwork, you will find many different color combinations and styles combining these different teachings. Eva has always had a passion for clothes and has combined this passion to eventually having a home based out of Saskatoon. Drop by and see her shop and you will see why this woman is deserving of this Award!

Kahkewistahaw Gas & Convenience Store
Economic Development
First Nation Business

The Kahkewistahaw Gas & Convenience Store is an independent Petro Canada store located at 500 Broadway St. W. in Yorkton, Sk. It has been in operation since May 1, 2004. The store is ain operation 24 hours a day and employs 24 people of which is 95% First Nation. They offer great customer service and wholly on First Nation land. Stop in and see the great partnership with the City of Yorkton and the Kahkewistahaw First Nation.

Tanya Delorme
Justice
First Nation Justice
Individual

Tanya Delorme is a Mosquito / Grizzly Bear’s Head First Nation band member. She is currently employed as the Aboriginal Resource Office for the Battlefords RCMP Detachment. This involves providing culturally appropriate support services to all Aboriginal victims or crime and traumatic events, with priority given to women and children. For the past nine years, Tanya has had the privilege to work with young people, various levels of government promoting awareness, delivery and implementing a restorative justice model at the Community, Tribal council and regional level. In 1992, Tanya was nominated for the Nationally recognized Ron Weibe Restorative Justice Award. Her recent volunteer work has included: “Speaking for Our Silent Sisters” which is a Committee that supports the National Women’s Association of Canada; Organization the Candle Light vigil on March 21st 2005 for 2005 International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to heighten the awareness on Safety and well being of First Nations / Metis Women and sits on the North Battleford Aborginal Awareness Week Committee. She completed her Community Justice Services certificate with SIIT in 1996. This young woman has truly made an impact in the Justice area and is deserving of this award.

Fred Starblanket
Indian Government
Citizen of the Year

Fred is a member of the Starblanket First Nation. Mr. Starblanket has worked for First Nations since 1976 in various capacities. He held positions as the Star Blanket First Nation Band Manager, FSIN Treaty Land Entitlement Coordinator, Treaty Land Entitlement Trustee, representative for the File Hills Health Board and New Dawn Valley Centre Board. In 1981, Mr. Starblanket was appointed as “Speaker” for the FSIN Legislative Assemblies. This involves chairing the proceedings of the Chiefs-In-Assembly four times a year. Mr. Starblanket has demonstrated respect for leadership in all capacities. Because of his demonstrated leadership and abilities at chairing meetings, Mr. Starblanket has been invited to chair Assembly of First Nations national Chiefs forums and many provincial forums. Mr. Starblanket is deserving of this prestigious award “Citizen of the Award”.

Harry Cook
Indian Government
Life Time Achievement

Born in Stanley Mission Reserve on September 9, 1943, married Rosie for 37 years and has two daughters (Tara and Janet) and one granddaughter.

Accomplishments:

Philosophy – Mr. Cook espouses a spirit of cooperation, as he works with the other members of his band for the development of their resources in a manner that follows the principles of sustainability, environment protection, the multiple use of resources, preservation of traditional activities and public participation and consultation.

Mr. Harry Cook continues to be an inspiration to all people whether at a grassroots level or international level. This “Life Time Achievement Award” acknowledges Mr. Cook’s respect and commitment to the better of his community.

Late David Lachance
1934 - 2002 – In Loving Memory
Indian Government
Posthumous Award

The Late David Lachance was from the Big River First Nation and was a father to nine children. David devoted his life to the community as a bus driver, councilor, sports events coordinator, hunter, trapper and an advocate for First Nation Treaty Rights. He was the first business owner of a Pool Hall / Gas Bar that operated from 1960 – 2000. In fact, he is well remembered for playing pool and was a familiar figure in every pool hall from Big River to Prince Albert! He served as a Band counselor many years and spearheaded many projects such as the building of the schools, church, roads and the administration building. David saw the benefits of Education and did the best he could during his service on the School Committee in addition to being a bus driver for 38 years. He once contracted 14 busses and never missed a day of work during this. And it all started when David started driving a horse drawn caboose for the Roman Catholic Church. During these early years, He also helped out the RC Day School fund raisers. David was instrumental in working as the local mechanic and taught many people how to fix, repair and maintain their vehicles. In May 2002, he received recognition from Prime Minster Jean Chretian and Premier Lorne Calvert for his 45th Wedding Anniversary. The Late David Lachance also had a very keen interest in the laws and treaties surrounding the First Nations peoples and he believed in sticking to the original meaning and intent of the treaties that were made to them by the Crown. Truly, the teaching of his tradition and cultural values will be remembered to his family and community for many years to come.

Corp James Pratt
SFNVA
Humanity Award

Corporal Jim Pratt is a Saulteaux from the Muscowpetung First Nation. In 1975, he joined the RCMP Special Constable program. In 1983, Jim became a Regina police Service member, receiving his training a the Saskatchewan Police College. During this time, Jim also served 19 years in the Canadian Forces Reserves. In his 22 years of policing, Jim served in the Patrol Division for 14 years. Jim is humble in listing his awards and achievements and always strives to recognize the assistance of others but he is proud to have played a role in, and been part of the following: August 2002 -Certificate of Distinction – National Youth Justice Program received Quebec City recognizing the value of Cultural camps for in-custody youth; March 2003 – United Way Community Service Award; November 2004 – Women of the Dawn Justice Award; 2001 – The Establishment of the Elders Advisory Council to the Regina Police Cultural Unity; Summer 2004 – Present the Tamara Keepness Search. These are to name a few and not to forget the many Advisory committees that he sits on. Jim is married to his wife Delores, has two sons and a daughter in addition to being a grandparent to his two granddaughters.

Amanda Thomas
First Nation Women’s Council
Youth Leadership

Amanda is a member of the Beardy’s First Nation. She has been a summer student with the Sciences Program for the last two years and has shown enthusiasm, professionalism, and a genuine love for teaching young people about the sciences. Amanda has also led discussions with the FASD Youth mentorship training for the young women within various communities. She not only believes in academic and athletic excellence, but also believes in volunteerism and community involvement. Despite the trying time that Amanda has had this year with her father passing away, she has persevered and continued with a positive outlook on a life that has been tinged with sadness. She truly is an excellent candidate for this award.

Ira Horse
First Nations Women’s Council
Women's Leadership (22-59)

Ira is a member of the Thunderchild First Nation She has three children – Crystal, Carol and Mathew and is currently raising a grandchild full time. Ira currently holds the Justice portfolio Councillor, but has expanded her leadership capabilities in the areas of housing, finance and human services. Her education includes Grade 12 from North Battleford Comprehensive High School, a Certified Life Skills Instructor, Social Work, Community Services / Justice Diploma and a Business I. She is currently developing and introducing the Alternative Measures / Justice Program to the Thunderchild First Nation membership. Ira participates and promotes her cultural values and traditions and instills these in her family members. She is a true role model for young women and is very deserving of this prestigious award.

Edna Henderson
First Nations Women’s Council
Honouring Our Mothers (60 & OVER)

Edna was born on August 12, 1929 and is a member of the Montreal Lake Cree Nation. She is the eldest of 12 children and has raised three children of her own. Edna quickly began serving her community in 1965 by working at the school as a janitor. In 1989, she was offered to sit on a few boards and committees as the Elder. She continues to serve on various boards and committees such as: Little Red River School Board since 1989 – Present; Lifetime member of the Little Red River Reserve Anglican Women’s Association; Elder of the Prince Albert Development Corporation Board of Directors; Elder for the Prince Albert Council of Chiefs. Edna was raised with her traditional values and beliefs and you can count on her guidance. Her quiet manner and her ability to make you feel at ease, and her ability to give of herself tirelessly are some of the good qualities that she possesses. She is truly a role model for young mothers and families and is very deserving of this prestigious award.

Missinippi Broadcasting Corporation
Communications
Media Award

Missinippi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) is one of the greatest success stories with the Aboriginal people in Saskatchewan. Since its founding in 1984, the corporation has become one of the foremost aboriginal broadcast networks in Canada and has contributed significantly to the preservation of aboriginal culture and the use of aboriginal languages. MBC has given aboriginal people in Saskatchewan the ability to expand and entrench their history, beliefs, religions, language and customs. It has also presented significant series of programs in the areas of Health, The Environment, Justice and many other issues of import to our peoples. MBC’s mandate since its inception has been to ensure that the aboriginal residents of Saskatchewan have an impartial and independent public broadcasting service that functions to inform, educate and entertain and that broadcasts in aboriginal languages. MBC now currently broads 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week to over 70 communities and cities throughout Northern and Central Saskatchewan. Don’t forget to tune into their Radio station for your Word of the Day!!!