Tragic accidents claim two lives

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Two tragic accidents, only days apart, have taken the lives of Blue Quills Native Education Centre secretary Priscilla Brertton and student Terrance Moosewah.

Nineteen year old Brertton was killed near Lamont the same week Moosewah died on Saddle Lake reserve. Both were residents of the reserve.

Students and staff alike mourned their loss last week and attended both funerals, only days apart.

Blue Quills A/President Peter Buggins says the double loss has hit the school very hard. "Blue Quills is a very closely knit community and to lose two was a shock. It's hit people pretty close to the heart."

Buggins says students and staff dealt with Brertton on a daily basis and her sudden death created an impact in the daily life of the school.

Buggins says the secretary was "very enthusiastic about every aspect of the school." She'd assist with the fund raising group and coached the girls fastball team on the Saddle Lake reserve. "She was more than willing to always help out," Buggins stated.

Terrance Moosewah, 17, had registered in the high school program's Grade 10 classes last September. He was well liked by his fellow students, a spokesperson explained and was a ready participant in the RCMP sponsored 15 mile relay race from ST. Brides to St. Paul that was run this past May.

The deaths come at a time when the centre is facing a financial crunch with recent lay-offs and possible closure of the highly successful high school component. Adding to the stress is the upcoming graduation exercise which must be planned and carried out by a staff reduced by 25 members.