Rae-Edzo (July 05/04) - After a time of mourning for Chief Eddie Paul Rabesca, Rae-Edzo is ready to elect a new leader.

With two women candidates, Rae-Edzo may have a female chief for the first time after the July 8 election.

Here are their platforms:

Clifford Daniels

Former sub-chief Clifford Daniels says Rae-Edzo should focus on community infrastructure.

Investing in the community will alleviate problems with youth, who have become restless with little to occupy their time.

"They need a place to hang out," Daniels said.

He also thinks efforts must be made to keep money -- which often ends up at the Yellowknife Wal-Mart or other city stores -- in Rae-Edzo.

"Millions of dollars have come through the community of Rae and it all goes to Yellowknife," Daniels said.

The people also want changes to the after-hours RCMP dispatch process. Callers from Rae-Edzo must speak with dispatch in Yellowknife who then relay the information to Rae-Edzo RCMP says Daniels.

"After the fact, (RCMP) will arrive, and it's too late," Daniels said.

Barb Zoe

As a social development coordinator with the Brighter Futures program, Zoe has worked directly with the people who she says are ready for change.

"I really want things to change in our community," Zoe said.

The Chief and Band Council need to set an example for the rest of the community says Zoe. This means staying sober and being a role model for youth.

"(Currently) the leaders don't go to the schools to speak to the youth," Zoe said.

Zoe says her first priority if elected would be to hold a town meeting concerning policy.

"I just want to do what the people want," Zoe said.

Rosa Mantla

There is some concern among community members about the possibility of a woman chief, says Mantla, but she does not consider it an issue.

"People elect you because of who you are," Mantla said.

She says many of the teachers in Rae are woman and so are many employees of the Dogrib Community Services Board, and they are very active in the community.

"(These workers) have been promoting and trying to keep our culture alive," Mantla said.

Alcohol and drug problems have to be confronted. So must the lack of recreation for youth says Mantla.

"We have to have money in place and programs in place," said Mantla. The specifics cannot be commented on though.

"I can't promise things when I don't even know what kind of monies (the Band Council) is working with."