Arnold Asham is proud of what has been accomplished.
He knew the end of the line for Asham Stomperfest was nearing. But before that came, he put his all into one more edition of the annual festival. The 23rd Annual Stomperfest took over Reedy Creek over the weekend.
A packed crowd of nearly 2,000 in attendance had plenty to cheer about. Headliners this year included Asham Stompers, the Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers, the Nelson Little Band, and Desiree Dorion.
"There were many highlights. I would say the best day was Saturday with the Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers and the Asham Stompers," said Asham. "Desiree Dorion was outstanding on Friday. It was really good. We were pretty happy with how the weekend went."
23 years after it started, Asham Stomperfest is no longer. Due to rising costs and Arnold's health, this past weekend's event was the final one.
More than 35,000 people entered the festival grounds over the past 23 years.
"Big thank you to all of our incredible volunteers. My family, especially," offered Asham. "All the people were so appreciative of what we do. The bands loved that we always offer a first-class sound system and lighting. All in all, it was a great time, and a great festival."
The festival's mission was to help re-capture and preserve the history of the Métis people through the traditional dancing of the Red River jig.
It's to have fun and enjoy the richness of the Métis tradition through the Red River Jig, combined with square dancing, which has been done in the First Nations Communities for years.
When asked what Asham Stomperfest meant to him, Arnold emotionally said, 'It means everything. '
"We were trying to bring hope to Indigenous kids and I am sure we have saved some lives," ended Asham. "That has to be the ultimate highlight, the kids that we have helped over the years. Look at the kids who started dancing with us at five years old, and now they're 25. It's been a wonderful journey. It's my heart and soul."
Arnold is a world champion curling coach. He's in Baseball Manitoba's Hall of Fame.
He is proud of all of his accomplishments, but Asham Stomperfest will go down as his greatest achievement.
