ST. PAUL – On June 20, Saddle Lake Cree Nation held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Onihcikiskwapiwin Trading Post, formerly known as the St. Brides Trading Post.
Saddle Lake acquired the store from Ernie Chrapko, the previous owner of the store. Chrapko began operating the St. Brides Trading Post in 1995. The store is just south of the Highway 29 and Highway 36 intersection.
“I’d like to congratulate Saddle Lake on their purchase and the continuation of a legacy that I started some 29 years ago,” said Chrapko. “I really appreciate them carrying this on because it was something that I felt that was really required, needed, and well-deserved for the area.”
He added, “If anybody really deserves it, it’s Saddle Lake.”
Saddle Lake Cree Nation Chief Jason Whiskeyjack said he feels happy with the development, explaining that it’s crucial to invest in opportunities to help sustain the Nation’s future generations.
“I’m a real, true believer in our people - that we could make this work,” said the chief.
Saddle Lake Coun. Mary-Jane Cardinal agreed.
“We have to continue to re-affirm our people and ensure that we provide some type of revenue for them,” adding, self-sustainability, as well as taking care of the future generations, are part of the Cree culture’s natural laws.
“We have to be proud of who we are and always re-affirm our natural laws,” said Cardinal. The natural laws also involve being grateful for the blessings that come one’s way.
Chief Whiskeyjack said he is also hopeful for future economic development opportunities in the region.
“I think in the future, Saddle Lake got some very good opportunities, along with municipalities in St. Paul.... So, we’ve got to learn how to work together and figure out what needs to be done,” to support and help each other, said the chief.