After a day of voting in Saddle Lake on June 22, results showed that it would be a familiar name taking the reigns as chief, with Eddie Makokis elected as head of council.
After a day of voting in Saddle Lake on June 22, results showed that it would be a familiar name taking the reigns as chief, with Eddie Makokis elected as head of council.
On Friday night, Chief Makokis took part in the first grand entry of the weekend at the Saddle Lake Cree Nation Powwow. Following the entry of hundreds of dancers from across North America, Makokis took a few minutes to address those in attendance.
“I know, it's going to be tough,&” said Makokis, looking forward to the task at hand. He acknowledged the hard work done by the previous council, thanked those who supported him during the election, and congratulated the other new council members who had been elected or re-elected.
In his short speech, he highlighted the importance of working together, and spoke about the many people who have been lost over the past year.
“The leadership can't do everything. We need the whole community, the whole community together,&” said Makokis.
A week prior, three councilors were elected to return to office, including Herbert Cardinal, John Large and Terry Cardinal. The remaining six positions filled by Makokis, Pauline Hunter, Sam W. Cardinal, Robbie Moosewah, Leslie Steinhauer and Darrell Quinney.
Terry Cardinal, Makokis, Sam Cardinal and Darrell Quinney had all put their names forward for chief, according to Cora Houle, a member of the elections committee.
This year's powwow included over 300 dancers and 11 drum groups from across North America, according to Frank Cardinal, one of the event coordinators.
“The event went very well and was enjoyed by all who came. There were a lot of smiles and laughter,&” says Cardinal. “People meeting up with old friends and making new ones. It was a wonderful event for Saddle Lake Cree Nation.&”
To view images from the Friday grand entry, visit our photo gallery.
