Youth benefit concert a go

The third-annual benefit concert for Oshki-Aa-yaa’aag Bimaadiziiwin Foundation (Good Life for Young People Foundation), which goes this Friday at Assabaska Heritage Park in Morson, is ready to kick off with cool workshops and a rocking concert sure to keep the youths entertained.
The turnout for the first two years has been phenomenal, noted Al Hunter, founder and president of the foundation.
“First Nations and non-First Nations communities, organizations, and businesses contributed money, materials, and staff to pull this off,” he noted.
“This year, once again, the support is fantastic,” he enthused.
About 600 people turned out for the event last year, said Hunter, and organizers are expecting to surpass that number this time around.
The focus of this event is to bring people together to support young people in a fun and creative environment. The youths are invited to take part in workshops specializing in such topics as:
•theatre, music, and video production;
•traditional arts and crafts; and
•empowerment creativity
These workshops will be headed by people who have worked really hard to make a mark in their respective businesses and really know what they are talking about.
They aim to help the youths who attend find their creativity, their voice, and first and foremost, a way to have a great time.
Top national, international, and regional acts will be contributing their time and talents to this event, which they all do for less than 20 percent of their usual fees plus expenses.
This year the event will be hosted by Tina Keeper and her sister, Joy.
Keeper is well-known across Canada as a Member of Parliament, the special advisor for aboriginal outreach at the national level, and for her role as RCMP officer Michelle Kenidi on the CBC Television series “North of 60.”
Joy Keeper also has her fair share of acting credits, and will be an invaluable partner to her sister as they act as joint hosts and emcees for the benefit.
Other guests will include Keith Secola and Wild Band of Indians, George Leach, Sandy Scofield, Marc Nadjiwan, local musician Percy Tuesday, Meghan Meisters, and more.
Hunter said the main objective of the foundation is “to promote healthy, proud, creative, and productive First Nations’ youth by establishing, operating, and supporting cultural, educational, artistic, recreational, and similar activities.”
Given the calibre of the hosts and guests this year, Hunter is excited and pleased to promote it.
The workshops will run Friday from 1-5 p.m., followed by the benefit concert from 7 p.m.-midnight.
Bracelets to attend the concert, available at Northwoods Gallery & Gifts in Fort Frances, cost $15 in advance.
The bracelets cost $20 at the gate, with youths 17 and under being admitted free.
Those who cannot attend the event for whatever reason still are encouraged to contribute to the cause.
You can make a donation through any branch of the Royal Bank of Canada or purchase a raffle ticket that enters you into a draw for two ATVs.
Raffle tickets are available from Hunter (482-1687).
In related news, Marc Nadjiwan, one of the musical guests at the Good Life for Young People Foundation benefit concert, also will be appearing tomorrow (Aug. 14) at 6 p.m. at the Circle of Life Centre (616 Mowat Ave.)
Snacks and refreshments will be provided.
The evening will start off with a workshop for young people who want to get into the music industry, then will wrap up with an acoustic performance.
This event is free and everyone is welcome to attend.