After 38 years with the Lethbridge Regional Police, Chief Tom McKenzie has decided to retire at the end of October – and his time on the force was recently honoured in a special way.
Elder Leonard Howell, a Vancouver teacher and Spirit Lodge reader, was in attendance at a ceremony where he presented Chief McKenzie with a ‘dreaming bundle’. He also thanked him for all that he had done to help build a sense of togetherness and understanding between the different communities throughout the city. He noted how much he had done to make the city feel inclusive to all, including First Nations and Metis people.
He also remarked that even though the chief will be retiring, people can continue to build on all the initiatives he started throughout his career.
Chief McKenzie was visibly touched by the recognition and said that he didn’t do all his good work alone; it was a partnership between all the different stakeholders and other concerned parties.
The ceremony took place during the first ever Thanksgiving Potluck and Bazar to be held at the Sik-Ooti-Kotoki Friendship Center. There was also a meal, a silent auction, entertainment, and vendors’ tables set up.
An event like this can be made even better through the use of appropriate decorations. A poster printing company can provide these, as well as any other printed items that may be needed.
