Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Saturday, October 27th, marked an historic occasion in Fort Providence. A time capsule sealed on October 7, 1992, was opened and items sealed in the capsule for 20 years were returned to the people in the community.
The sealing of the time capsule 20 years ago marked the end of an era as Elizabeth Ward School became Deh Gah Elementary School. On Saturday the occasion was marked by Jane Arychuk, former school principal, returning to the school, and Margaret Vandell and her son Wayne cutting the chain and locks on the large Rubbermaid tub.
Once opened, large envelopes and letters were revealed, bringing tears to many eyes: letters to children from parents, from grandparents, letters written to themselves, and letters from teachers to students. Sam Gargan, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly at the time, shared a picture of his young family and sent best wishes to the community in 2012.
The hamlet council, band council and district education authority had placed packages of materials in envelopes, with strict instructions to be opened by the same councils in 2012. The students of the community learning centre in 1992 sealed a package of materials which will be opened by the 2012 Aurora College learning students next week.
A fishnet woven by Kari Hergott and the dog harness made by Louie Mackenzie Jr. reminded the community of its commitment to culture-based education in Fort Providence.
Price lists from three local stores and issues of News/North and Native Press got everyone’s attention as they compared food prices, real estate prices and wages in the job ads.
Community members spent a great afternoon reading letters, looking at pictures and reminiscing about their lives 20 years ago. Some families left with envelopes of letters and items to share with the whole family when the whole family is together at Christmas.
One wrapped mystery gift labelled for the oldest female student in the school in 2012 will be opened today. A final decision has not been made, but there is a good chance Deh Gah School will plan an event in the near future to refill a time capsule for the next 20 years.
I applaud the staff of Elizabeth Ward School and now Deh Gah Elementary and Secondary School, who brought personal histories to life on Saturday. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mahsi.
Thank you, Mr. Nadli. The honourable Member for Frame Lake, Ms. Bisaro.
