BIRCH ISLAND—Tiny but mighty, the community of Whitefish River First Nation invited everyone to B’Boon Niimi’idiwin, a winter powwow aimed at “Celebrating their Spirits” on the evening of Saturday, January 4.

The community has seen more than its share of loss over the past year, noted MC Maawdii (Marti) Pitawanakwat. “This will help with our community’s healing,” she said.

The community centre hall was packed to capacity with dancers, drums (including Young Biisineh, Northshore Ogitchidaa Singers, Anishnaabek Connection and Spirit Bear) and smiles and laughter were the order of the day as old and new friends greeted each other.

“This is a wonderful time for everyone to get together and enjoy some good food, meet up with friends and family and to say goodbye to the past year,” noted Whitefish River Chief Rodney Nahwegabow. “We have seen some challenging times over the past year, and some good times too, but this is an event that is aimed at promoting community healing.”

The spirit in the room played witness to the chief’s words.

Head veteran for the winter powwow was Techumseh Paibomsai-Howell, Head Elder was Viola Jacko and head dancers were Waasnode Recollet and Athena Migwanabe. Eagle staffs from a number of communities were in attendance.