It was a busy and productive time for the Stemete7uw’i Friendship Centre team on May 8, as they prepared for an opening barbecue for the centre.
About 30 people attended the opening on May 10, which began with a Welcome to Secwepemc Territory and opening Drum Song led by Stemete7uw’i chair Mary Thomas.
Dave Sampson said a Secwepemc Prayer and then interpreted it into English, Thomas says.
"This being Mother’s Day, there were four men as cooks and cooks' helpers. The menu consisted of delicious barbecued hamburgers and hotdogs with all of the fixings."
Thomas notes the centre was prepared and decorated by volunteers with a butterfly theme, and beautiful flowers and plants were arranged into flower boxes and an arrangement.
"Lory Rochon obtained flowers and plant donations to complete the society’s beautification plans."
The next step will be moving in office furniture donated by the Canim Lake Band and other furniture donated by [Norbord], she notes.
Thomas adds they still need window blinds, artwork, as well as children’s furniture, toys, games and fun activity items.
The society will also accept items for other activities, such as decks of cards, crib boards, art supplies, traditional craft supplies and any musical instruments that people may want to part with, she adds.
"Much appreciation goes out to the Stemete7uw’i board of directors, community members of the South Cariboo, council members of St. Timothy’s Church and the Canim Lake Band for their tireless hours to get ready for a successful opening."
Organizers are also seeking an individual interested in providing part-time hostess services at the Friendship Centre. Call Gladys Rowan at 250-397-2717 for more information.