Between 700-800 hungry mouths lined up for a free meal at the annual Rainy River First Nation’s fish fry Friday at the Manitou Mounds.
More than 400 pounds of walleye and sturgeon were cooked by volunteers and served under the big tent, along with pasta salads, bannock, potatoes, and other dishes.
“It’s just to show our appreciation to the people of the district in terms of extending our hand in friendship and co-operation, and just to have a good time,” noted Rainy River First Nation Chief Jim Leonard.
The fish fry has been offered to residents of the district and surrounding area for a number of years.
“It creates awareness of our way of life. This is a meeting area and we’re meeting here today,” Chief Leonard said.
There already were several hundred vehicles lined up along the road to the historical centre and grounds when the meal was served at 4 p.m.
Despite the long line-up, there was more than enough food for all the visitors, many of who attend the fish fry every year.
“I come all the way from Morden because this is good fish,” said Manitoba resident Mark Thwaits.
“I try to make it every year,” noted Rainy River resident James Cutfeet.
Representatives from First Nations communities across Ontario, Manitoba, and Minnesota also came for the meal, which was spiritually blessed by a Rainy River First Nation resident.
Indian Affairs and Northern Development minister Robert Nault, also the local MP, and Ontario NDP leader and local MPP Howard Hampton also were on hand.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
