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April 4, 2007

   Ardoch Algonquin First Nation Breaks Historic
Ground

The Ardoch Algonquin First Nation announces plans for the construction of
the Manomin Heritage Centre at Pine Lake, northwest of Sharbot Lake. As
caretakers of the wild rice, AAFN will be dedicating the centre to the crop
that is an integral part of its culture and history.

"We want to build a heritage centre so our kids can learn our language, so
that we can learn about our culture, so we can be proud of ourselves and so
our elders can see their efforts bear fruit," explains Co-Chief Randy Cota.

AAFN spokesperson Bob Lovelace believes that "we along with other Native
peoples in the country are in the process of defining how Aboriginal and
non-Aboriginal people work and live together" and are in effect, "setting a
standard for ourselves to live by." As such, the Algonquin’s of Ardoch have
placed themselves in a powerful position to govern their own cultural
capital in the future. The creation of the Manomin Heritage Centre serves as
example of how many First Nations communities are taking it upon themselves
to educate future generations about the histories of Aboriginal peoples in
Canada.

AAFN will complete the project this summer in order to hold their annual Pow
Wow on September 1st , 2007. Enlisted on the project are Alexander Wilson
Architect Inc., of Kingston who will ensure that the Heritage Centre meets
all requirements of authorities having jurisdiction as well as the standards
outlined in the most recent edition of the Ontario Building Code. Conducting
an Environmental Assessment of the site and surrounding area will be
Ecological Services of Elginburg, to ensure that of the surrounding
communities are met. AAFN requests that any concerns regarding the
Environmental Assessment be made in writing and addressed to Alexander
Wilson Architect, who, as a neutral party, will administer all dialogue
between interested parties.

"It is important to us that we do everything properly, that we are open and
transparent in our dealings with the community at large" explains Co-Chief
Cota, "as we are committed to the success of the project and the people it
will benefit."

According to the AAFN, the community centre will provide a "space for
community members to come together in a culturally significant space for
community gatherings, cultural and linguistic programs, education and
training, as well as social and health services." As well, the centre will
"offer programs to non-members who want to learn about Algonquin people,
culture and history." In addition, the centre hopes to attract one or more
health professionals who can provide health services to community members
and also regional residents.
AAFN ensures that the project will benefit the municipality of North
Frontenac and bring welcome revenue to its communities as well as providing
opportunities for locals to learn about the history of the place in which
they live. Members are certain that the Manomin Heritage Centre will become
something the whole community can be proud of.

Please address all questions, comments, concerns and letters of support to:

Alexander Wilson Architect Inc.

Re: Ardoch Algonquin First Nation Manomin Heritage Centre

249 Brock Street

Kingston, ON

K7L 1S3

Tel: (613) 545-3744

Fax: (613) 545-1411

design@awarchitect.ca

For more information or to make a donation to the project, please feel free
to contact Alexander Wilson Architect Inc., or see the Ardoch Algonquin
First Nation Website at www.aafna.ca.

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Ardoch Algonquin First Nation Banner created by Kevin Wight.