Jeff Colbourne
Northern News Services

LUTSELK'E (Jul 20/98) - The Akaitcho Tribal Council annual general assembly wrapped up last Thursday in Lutselk'e. Participants left on Friday except for those who stayed for a wedding on Saturday.

About 80 people showed up for the event including MLAs, territorial ministers and Treaty 8 leaders. According to assembly co-ordinator James Marlowe, things went off without a hitch.

"Everything went perfect, no glitches. Sometimes we have problems with our phone systems and with interpreters. Not this time," said Marlowe.

Besides setting up tables, tents, outhouses and water services for the delegates, Marlowe also had to organize activities after daily meetings. A number of events were held, including a fish derby, community feast and drum dances.

Next year, the Akaitcho Tribal Council general assembly will be held in Fort Fitzgerald, Alb., 15 kilometres outside of Fort Smith. The six Treaty 8 communities rotate hosting duties for the assembly each year.

While no one was around on Friday at Akaitcho Tribal Council headquarters in Fort Resolution to discuss resolutions from the gathering -- all were in travelling -- Marlowe confirmed Felix Lockhart reclaimed his seat as Grand Chief of the Akaitcho Tribal Council.

Lockhart could not be reached for comment.