The entertainment industry loves giving out awards, and our Canadian cousins are no exception. The Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television held its 21^st annual Gemini Awards this past Saturday and programs from the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) earned honors in direction, performance and writing. 

The made-for-television movie One Dead Indian  earned three of the seven award categories it was nominated in including Best Direction in a Dramatic Program  or Mini-Series, Best Writing in a Dramatic Program or Mini-Series and Best Sound in a Dramatic Program  during the broadcast gala at the River Rock Show Theatre November 4th. 

renegadepress.com  received the Gemini in two of the four categories it was nominated in at the earlier three-day gala event in Toronto October 17^th. The Gemini for Best Writing in a Children's or Youth Program or Series  was awarded to Jordan Wheeler for the episode titled, The Rez, while actor Ksenia Solo accepted the Gemini award for Best Performance in a Childrens or Youth Program or Series  for her performance in the episode titled Fear. 

The 2006 Canada Award was also awarded to the APTN program, Wapos Bay for “excellence in mainstream television programming that reflects the racial and cultural diversity of Canada.”  

“APTN is proud to be associated with these standout productions which have so convincingly showcased the talents and diversity of our Peoples. Our congratulations are extended to all nominees and award winners,” says Jean LaRose, APTN Chief Executive Officer. 

The Gemini Awards celebrate excellence in Canadian English-language television by creating a national television showcase to assist the industry in building television audiences and public awareness, as well as an appreciation of Canadian production and talent.