Yellowknife (Feb 14/03) - Growth was celebrated in Jean Marie River on Saturday evening.

The tiny community of just over 50 residents hasn't expanded numerically, rather it is striving to advance in personal and political growth.

Community members and guests serve themselves at the Appreciation Night feast in Jean Marie River. - Derek Neary/NNSL photo

Nearly 75 people, including relatives and guests from out of town, gathered for Appreciation Night. The festivities began with a fire-feeding ceremony. Then the crowd packed the gym, which was decorated in paper snowflakes by students and school staff. Old black-and-white photos also adorned the walls.

Following a feast, emcee Gladys Norwegian explained that chief and council, elected last October, have been seeking ways to improve life in Jean Marie River.

"People recognize that they are attempting to make a difference in this community," said Norwegian.

For instance, Chief Fred Norwegian, five elected councillors and two band staff members have attended a six-day aboriginal governance board development training session in Banff, Alta. Fred Norwegian said they learned how to properly conduct meetings, how to avoid conflict of interest and how to write formal policies.

In the realm of business, the Tthek'ehdeli First Nation signed an agreement with Great Slave Helicopters on Saturday. In return for using Great Slave's services, the band will have opportunities at scholarships and training pilots and helicopter engineers.

Plaques were then presented to community members who are making a difference. Ernest Hardisty, who has served as chief or councillor since 1966, was recognized for his long-standing service. Yvonne Norwegian, with six-and-a-half years as chief and councillor, and Stan Sanguez, the former chief of three years, also received accolades.

Ten residents received plaques in honour of their sobriety, ranging from two to 25 years.

Fred Norwegian acknowledged that alcoholism is a recurring issue. He challenged everyone in Jean Marie River to be sober for the children's sake.

He added that only some community members were recognized by name on Saturday night. There are many other invaluable volunteers who are also appreciated, he said.

Jim Antoine, MLA for Nahendeh, told the crowd that he thought Appreciation Night was a good idea that should take root.

"It seems that we don't look at the good things people do," he said. "It seems through the media ... we only look at the bad things."