Driftpile’s latest dream now a reality

Driftpile First Nation brought out all the pageantry for the sod turning ceremony. Left-right are drummers George Isadore, Vital Isadore, Gabriel Isadore and James Isadore.

Chris Clegg
South Peace News

Two eagles soared overhead during and after the sod turning for the Driftpile First Nation Community Hall April 3. “A sign of good luck,” those in attendance unanimously agreed. Driftpile celebrated the event of the $1.9 million hall with dignitaries, band councillors and band members attending. Elder James Isadore led the group in prayer saying the community asked for the building for a long time. “I’m very proud to be here today as an elder,” said Isadore while blessing the ground. “I thank our leadership today. Maybe next year we’ll be dancing in a new hall!” Seko Construction vice-president Kurt Osterman and Driftpile signed the contract to build the hall earlier in the day. Osterman, who operates the company out of Edmonton, was pleased to be part of the reserve’s dream. “We’re very proud to be the contractor,” says Osterman. He adds there is nothing more rewarding than constructing a building that brings rewards, pleasure and use to a community. “We’ll be done Oct. 5,” says Chief Rose Laboucan. The hall became a reality when band members petitioned for its construction. “We’re very pleased,” says Laboucan. “Thanks to the First Nations Development Fund we were able to submit (an application) by the deadline.” She also praised Councillor Florence Willier who spent many long hours on the project. First Nations Development Fund liaison officer Alfred L’Hirondelle, who works out of Edmonton, attended the ceremony. He says an agreement was reached a few years ago where a portion of money from slot machines in casinos is put aside into a fund for Alberta’s First Nations. Each band then receives a percentage of the money and can use it for virtually any project, with a few exceptions. L’Hirondelle says the community hall is a good project which will benefit all band members. The ceremony ended with a dance and also included the blessing of the ground. The hall will be located on the reserve’s west end just south of Highway 2.

Copyright © 1999-2005 South Peace News. All Rights Reserved.
No part may be reproduced without written permission.

View our Privacy Statement.
Send website suggestions to the Webmaster