"CD-ROM program makes learning about Iroquois history fun"

BRANTFORD -After years of hard work and dedication, the dream has become a reality. Iroquois teachings have come alive on CD-ROM.

Raymond Skye, a local artist had a dream four years ago. At the time he wasn't sure how to pursue it but the message soon became clear. He felt compelled to create a series of sketches of his Iroquois heritage, a three-panel work of art entitled, The Great Peace... The Gathering of Good Minds.

It became evident to Skye that the work had the potential to become something greater. Jeff Burnham, president of Working World Training Centre, shared Skye's vision. Through his technological knowledge Burnham helped Skye transform the artwork into a computer-based educational package. Over 2,600 screens of information are included in the program.

After three years and $400,000 dollars of funding to cover the cost of research, animation, filming, graphics and voice overs, the final product is now complete.

A staff of nine worked on the project. Burnham says the program will be released to schools and libraries in Iroquois territory, including Ontario, Quebec, New York State, Wisconsin and Oklahoma.

On November 20, The Great Peace CD-ROM was revealed at Education Day at the Canadian Aboriginal Festival in Toronto.

The program is designed for students and teachers as a learning tool. Information about the Iroquois people, traditions and legends are all included and explored through text, audio commentary, artwork, photos and videos.

Included in the program is the story of the Peacemaker who brought peace to warring Iroquois tribes.

A reading of the Great Law by Cayuga Chief Jacob E. Thomas is also featured in the program. The recording was made shortly before his passing. Skye was able to discuss with Thomas the Great Peace, about his discussion he had this to say, "we both agreed about one thing: The Great Peace will never grow old. Everything it stands for applies to our lives today."

Skye says the Great Peace is the centre core for everything. Everything stems from it. "Peace is something all human beings need to embrace. We will soon be entering a new millennium. I think its about time we enter this new age with a better understanding of peaceful coexistence, for our sake and especially for the sake of our children and the coming generations," says Skye.

The CD-ROM gives students the opportunity to study information at three different levels, elementary, secondary and university.

The program will be released for sale this month. Individuals will be charged $199 dollars per copy. Educators will pay $395 dollars. The difference in price is a teachers guide will be included with the education copy.

Burnham says all proceeds will go towards their newest project, a Pauline Johnson CD-ROM slated for release for late 1999.