At that time, Sainte-Marie sang about peace along with First Nation’s issues at a time when the United States was at war in Vietnam. Her songs such as Universal Soldier and It’s Time for You to Go became timeless classics.

Fast forward to 2010 and Moola, who is helping organize International Women’s Day celebrations for the International Women of Swift Current Club March 7, came across the opportunity of a lifetime.

“This year, we had got some mail from a group in Regina and said (Sainte-Marie) would be in Regina the day before our celebration,” explained Moola who along with five other women are doing the main organizing of the Swift Current fundraiser. “We’re amazed. We’re a small group of about 25. We share cultures, share food and help out whenever we can can in the community (i.e. fundraising and volunteering). We never thought we get someone like Buffy Sainte-Marie.”

She said the 25-member club jumped at the chance and found out what it would take to get her to come to Swift Current. They operate on a small grant from provincial lotteries so they needed some outside assistance.

With the help of the Living Sky Casino and general manager Lionel Tootoosis who has supported the project, Sainte-Marie agreed to visit Swift Current.

Moola and the group are absolutely thrilled. In years past, they have had guest speakers such as former

Sask. Lt. Governor Lynda Haverstock. For the group to get someone of Sainte-Marie’s international stature during the 100th annual celebration of International Women’s Day, is quite special.

“She will speak and hen hopefully we can talk her into singing a few songs,” said an obviously elated Moola.

The fundraiser, which will be held at the Living Sky Casino, will also include a three-course meal and traditional dancing performances.

Tickets are $50 each and were available at Creative Video. Trouble is, they may be sold out already. When word leaked out the legendary singer was coming to Swift Current, tickets were being purchased at a rapid rate. They can hold 228 people but as of last week, there were only three tables of 28 left.

Some of the proceeds of the event will go to cover expenses, but Moola said this is not a fundraiser for her club. The group will partner with the Southwest Multicultural Association, Southwest Crisis Service, Grandmothers and Other for Change and the Filipino Association of Swift Current.