The Mi'kmaq-Acadian Cultural Festival and Reunion is a go for 2011 after all.

 The popular annual event, which has been held each of the past 11 summers at the Fort Point Museum in LaHave, looked to be in jeopardy of folding last fall after longtime organizer Ellen Hunt began experiencing health problems which at the time forced her to step down as organizer.

 She said at that time that the membership of the Mi'kmaq Burial Association, which sponsored the event, had grown so small in number that they could no longer continue to do so.

 "We're looking to put it on its own as the Mi'kmaq-Acadian Cultural Festival and Reunion, form its own association so it can sponsor itself," she explained.

 On January 10, that dream came true.

 At a meeting held in Bridgewater, a new association came into being with none other than Ms Hunt herself at the helm as president.

 "My health is improving and I am feeling a lot better," she says. "We still need members and committees to help with the festival."

 Volunteers are needed to cover kitchen duties, publicity, marketing, grant writing, arranging children's activities, co-ordinating workshops and performing other assignments.

 "Anyone who can spare a few hours of [their] time and would like to participate, we would love to have you," Ms Hunt says.

 This year's event will take place August 19 and 20. Interested volunteers may contact Ms Hunt at 634-8017 or via e-mail at newfie@ns.sympatico.ca.

posted on 02/01/11