WHITE BEAR FIRST NATIONS - Perfect weather attracted a crowd of hundreds last Friday as the White Bear First Nations hosted an event for Canada Day.
The day started off with a well-attended pancake breakfast, sponsored and served by Element Technical Services. The annual parade started promptly at 11 a.m. from the lake store. There were many floats, some horses and numerous children sporting their decorated faces and bicycles.
The grassy grounds were impeccably groomed and ready for the celebration. There was a horseshoe tournament, a volleyball tournament and a mini ferris wheel. For the kids there was a three-legged race, a balloon pop race, a potato sack race, a magic carpet race and an egg toss. There was face painting, rock painting and laser tag.
White Bear Lake itself was blanketed with pontoon boats, fishing boats and boats used for waterskiing and tire tubing. Out on the lake, rides were given to many, including elders. A free barbecue was held in the afternoon and the lineups were long. It was simply an enjoyable day for everyone.
The celebrations concluded with an impressive and lengthy fireworks display. Many of those who attended praised the White Bear Band and its many organizing committees. “The day started great and ended great,” said White Bear summer resident Earl Silcox.
“It was probably one of most well-attended Canada Day events in years. It was well-organized and the fireworks show was simply fantastic.”
Jodi Onufreychuk resides in Manor and partook in the festivities with many family and friends.
“Canada Day 2022 can only be summed up as perfect,” she said. “The weather was a perfect temperature for having the grand babies out. Our whole family spent the entire day at White Bear. Great job to the crew who planned the event. Capped the night off with a spectacular fireworks show.”
Carlyle resident Lois Paul was impressed with the parade.
“It was nice that the Aboriginal people had so many floats,” she said. “I loved the White Bear float with their kids on it and their native headdresses. It showcased their culture. The horses always add a nice touch to any parade.”
Brad and Michelle Cooper live at Goods Bird Point and had a fabulous view of the fireworks.
“It was a fantastic show. We’re very fortunate that there is the support needed to put on such a great display in our little resort. Our kids really enjoyed it and it was a wonderful end to our Canada Day celebrations.”
Chris Hornsby is the nations development CEO at White Bear First Nations.
“It was a great Nations Day of inclusion and celebration. The hard work of nations and cottage volunteers made the difference and the experience. All nations shared sunshine and smiles of a day of Heaven by the Lake and brilliant colours by night with the fireworks. Thank you to all, it was a good day.”
