Blue Quills election - Dion receives third term

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The Blue Quills Native Education Council recently held their executive elections which saw the president remain unchallenged for the third term in a row, Joe Dion.

"Nobody wants the job," laughed Dion when asked why he thought he's won the presidency by acclamation three times.

But an employee since 1982 says the real reason is because "the job is a tough one."

Larry Kaida, director of secondary programs at Blue Quills, maintains that "people see that Joe has a lot of credibility as previous leader," adding that Dion has the right balance of political skills and contacts that make the institution survive.

"And the nature of the job is so complex," explains Kaida, since Blue Quills is a one of a kind institute ? not belonging to any one Indian band or organization but to the people in a general way to provide education.

The executive election took place during the annual meeting of the council at the Blue Quills school, just north of St. Paul, Sept. 25.

Ron Lameman of Beaver Lake remains vice-president, although he was challenged by four others. Lameman maintained the majority vote over Saddle Lake's Fred Cardinal, Howard Cardinal, Lucas Redcrow and Cold Lake's Allan Jacob.

Edith Memnook returns to the executive replacing Theresa Cardinal as treasurer. Except for the past two years, Memnook has been on the executive since Blue Quill's beginnings in 1971. Unsuccessful candidates were Eric Large, Norbert Jebeaux, Albert Houle and Simon Sparkling Eyes.

Henry Quinney lost the secretary's position to Alice Makokis, Makokis received the majority of the votes ? beating Quinney and Shirley Half. Makokis is returning to her old position ? she had also been with the council's executive since 1971.

Over a hundred members attended the assembly, representing Saddle Lake. Goodfish Lake, Heart Lake, Beaver Lake, Cold Lake, Frog Lake and Kehewin. Candidates were nominated from the floor and voting was conducted by secret ballot.

The newly-elected executive will be responsible for the school's operations and directions. The executive meets monthly and will hold their positions for a two-year term.