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Scugog raises Mississaugas of Scugog flag A brief, but impressive cer- emony, including a smudge and flag raising was held in front of the Scugog Township municipal office on Ma‘ Dignitaries, including Chief Tracy Gauthier and members of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, local municipal repre- sentatives and guests from across Durham Region applauded as the Mississaugas flag was raised to the top of a newly installed flag pole. “Raising the Mississaugas First Nation Flag at our municipal of- fices is recognition of a long stand- ing respectful relationship”, said Mayor Chuck Mercier. A painting by well known Port Perry native artist Don Chase was Chief Tracy Gauthier speaks to the gathering, outside the Scugog Township office, while Mayor Chuck Mercier, Regional Councillor Bobbie Drew and CAO Bev Hendry look on. A painting, (above) by local native artist Don Chase was donated to the town- ship by Steve Gamsby. Top left, Mayor Mercier speaks. Center, Chief Gauthier, Kent Farndale and Mayor Mercier unveil the painting and far right, Leona Charles and Har- old Ashkewe during the smudge ceremony. 07. JULY FOCUS 64 pages.indd 19 Photos by J. Peter Hvidsten unveiled during the ceremony followed by Mayor Mercier and Chief Gauthier raising the Mississaugas of Scugog Island flag at the front of the municipal Addressing the gathering, Chief Gauthier echoed the mayor’s senti- ments, saying “We are very proud of the positive relationship we have formed and fostered with the Township of Scugog.” Following the ceremony, everyone was invited to attend the opening ceremonies for the “Aboriginal History Month Expo” which was being held at Port Perry High School. ef Tracy Gauthier and Mayor Chuck Mercier raise the Mississaugas fag in front of the municipal office in Port Perry. FOCUS - JULY 2012 19 12-06-25 11:16 AM