The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Stories from around the world will be told at this year's Culture Days in Flin Flon. There are opportunities to hear from human books at the Flin Flin Public Library as well as take in numerous guest speakers. David Bouchard is among the guest speakers to be taking stage for this weekend's activities. The Inspirational Speaker is known for his work with literacy across Canada. Bouchard is also an accomplished Aboriginal flute player. 'Canadian M_tis author and literacy advocate Bouchard has produced more than 50 books for readers of all ages, including two guides on reading for parents and educators,' said a short biography about the speaker. 'An erstwhile teacher and school principal, he is particularly concerned with Aboriginal-related issues and is a sought-after speaker for conference keynotes and school presentations and on topics of reading, literacy and Aboriginal well-being.' Bouchard will be speaking to students from Grade 9 to 12 as part of this year's School Programs, Friday as well as to the public the following day. All students in the Flin Flon School Division and the Creighton School Division will have an opportunity to hear from a speaker, be involved in a class, or take in some literature _ to name a few activities. Another big hit for the Flin Flon area is Norm Crerar. His family originates from Flin Flon as the local Ski Chalet sits on Ma Crerar Drive. 'His family was really known for canoe races and the ski club,' said Culture Days organizer Crystal Kolt. Norm was captain of a canoe team that raced from Alberta to Montreal during Expo 67. Flin Flon's team placed first. 'He's done that and so much more,' said Kolt. Crerar will be speaking to the seniors in the Flin Flon Council Chambers this weekend. He will also be participating in the Check out A Living Book event at the Library as well as be in attendance at Bakers Narrows Saturday for activities. Pioneer Square will be well used this coming weekend as Doug Dmytriw will explain and present his artwork. Dmytriw's work is seen everyday in Flin Flon _ though many may not know it. The new copper artwork hanging above the fountain at Pioneer Square belongs to Dmytriw. 'It'll be neat for people to come and talk to him and he can explain things,' said Kolt. 'He's done such a great job.' Kolt says having Dmytriw speak at Pioneer Square is a great way for people to find out the process behind pieces of artwork such as the one hanging there. Changing focuses, Puff the Clown will be putting on a show Friday evening _ as one of only a few events that have a cover charge _ and is geared towards children. The show will take place at the R.H. Channing Auditorium. The second event that has a cover charge is this year's Culture Shock. The four-band concert will be held outside at the Jubilee Hall Tent _ located behind the Flin Flon Community Hall. The Friday night entertainment is one of the most anticipated events of this year's Culture Days. 'Four great bands will be performing. And this is one of the few things you need to buy tickets for,' said Kolt. Though the tent is outside the organizer says they have thought far past the weather and have heaters in place in case the warm nights are no longer. Moving from the four-band concert, locals will have their chance to showcase their talents at this year's Wild Rice - Celebrating Women in Art. Residents are encouraged to 'join in a celebration of women and the arts, cabaret style,' read a brochure. Those attending are able to reserve tables for the free event. Taking inspiration from the first female prospector, the cabaret is named after Katie Rice. Culture Days will also feature a Poetry Competition with a deadline of September 28 from the Flin Flon Walmart. Writers are encouraged to stay close to the theme of Flin Flon. 'Anything and everything Flin Flon' is welcome in the poems. Winners of this year's Poetry Competition will appear in The Reminder with prize money going to first, second and third places. Winners, along with the top three Honourable Mentions will be printed in The Reminder on Monday, September 30 as well as announced on CFAR 590. Take Your Pick With roughly 80 events taking place for this year's Culture Days there are plenty of options. Kolt recommends checking out the events and activities at Bakers Narrows on Saturday as well as some of the tours being put on throughout town.
