On February 23rd, 2017, Tara Slone and Ron MacLean from Roger’s Hometown Hockey visited Snuneymuxw Territory which included Tara and the entire Rogers Broadcast Crew embarking on a memorable trip to Saysutshun - Newcastle Island.

Tara was welcomed by a Snuneymuxw Welcome Ceremony & Feast.  The day began with the Welcome Ceremony beginning at Maffeo Sutton dock and proceeded with Tara travelling to Saysutshun in a sea-going canoe.  Upon arriving to Saysutshun, Tara was ushered with a welcome song to the Saysutshun Pavilion where the Snuneymuxw Dance Group shared a traditional performance.   A Snuneymuxw Artisan Village was set up and included many Snuneymuxw Artists sharing their art with everyone in attendance.  Thank you to the 10 + Snuneymuxw Artisans who participated to showcase their remarkable work! Thank you to our fabulous Chef Amanda Seward and volunteers!

Noel, a locally-renowned carver, had been commissioned to carve a totem (4-5 feet tall) and was carving this totem at the Artisan Village with Tara Slone.  The Snuneymuxw totem pole was gifted to Tara, Ron and the entire Rogers Broadcast team.  

Ron MacLean, noted broadcaster from Roger's Hometown Hockey, commented, “Thank you so much to Chief Wesley, SFN Council and Stephanie White for performing a welcome dance for us yesterday.  I am enormously invested in the story of our history, and the remarkable comeback you and other First Nations are making, to the teaching, the respect for treaties and mutual sharing of the land.  Just so important.  I know Tara was thrilled, and she is a tremendous voice in this process.  We will tell your story.  Thank you all SFN members and guests that participated and attended this special event.”

QQS also attended the John Barsby Community School for the Hometown Hockey event there with mascots and friends. 

Thank you for visiting our community!

Click here for the Hometown Hockey Video!

Some photos courtesy of Dave Bodaly—superdave6693@gmail.com