Dootilh - August 2017

Dootilh August 2017

”BUILDING A POWERFUL, PROSPEROUS AND PROUD COMMUNITY, HEALTHY IN MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT.”

Logging off their devices, and logging in to Haisla culture, at the cultural camp. /Page 10-11 for photo highlights

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t s u r T t u o l Guka WE’VE LISTENED Haisla Nation Council went to communities in April with its bold plan to take Haisla’s Own Source Revenue, gained through economic development benefits - and secure it for the better part of a century, so Haislas today and tomorrow will benefit from our work.

And we heard loud and clear from respondents that the Haisla want this. In fact, out of the completed surveys in April

Bringing Haisla together for Christmas meals.

95% of Haisla said ‘yes’ to the concept of the trust.

Providing opportunities for our youth to live and learn.

The Gukalout Trust would be built with Haisla members input in mind. That means Haisla will have a say in what programs are funded, and even any criteria for distributions for youth.

Before the Gukalout Trust is formalized, we are looking for your complete support.

You can follow updates about the Gukalout Trust online at Haisla.ca under the ‘Gukalout’ tab, where you can sign up for weekly e-newsletters, read documents on the Trust, and watch videos.

Putting money in Haisla’s pocket through economic development.

And don’t miss the membership meetings (see schedule on opposite page)so you can ask questions in person.

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Gukalout Trust membership meetings Vancouver

YOUR CHANCE TO LEARN

September 17, Hilton Metrotown, 6083 McKay Avenue, 5 pm

Take time to attend a community membership meeting near you to learn more about the Gukalout Trust, what it means, and how to keep connected with the process.

Terrace

DINNER AND DOOR PRIZES

September 18, Best Western Plus, 4553 Greig Avenue, 5 pm

Prince Rupert September 20, Crest Hotel, 222 - 1st Avenue West, 5 pm

Kitamaat Village September 21, Haisla Recreation Centre 5 pm

What will this Trust provide for Haisla?

The Gukalout Trust will provide a stable source of funding for Haisla programs which currently are provided out of Own Source Revenue. (That is, the

money generated to date from economic and industrial activity.)

These programs include:

Annual Christmas Dinners | Bereavement Fund | preschool | Elders program | Land purchases including MK Bay Marina | Haisla Days | Per Capita Distributions| and more‌ 3

Report from the Chairs

Councillor Brenda Duncan, Chief Councillor Crystal Smith, and Councillor Kevin Stewart

Brenda Duncan, Executive Committee and Deputy Chief Councillor With eight years so far on Haisla Nation Council, Brenda Duncan is looking forward to her new challenges; her selection as Haisla Nation Council Deputy Chief Councillor, and Chair of the Executive Committee.

Duncan, under the Haisla Nation Council Custom Election Code, applied and won the support of fellow councillors to be Deputy Chief Councillor.

Being Deputy Chief Councillor means she plays a supportive role to elected Chief Councillor Crystal Smith. Duncan will stay in the loop on all matters of importance to Council, and will share the responsibility of the Chief Councillor to be an advocate for Haisla Nation at all other levels of government.

"I'm honoured to be selected as Deputy Chief Councillor for the next four years," said Duncan, noting that there is a very strong team of councillors representing members today. "We all share a common vision on behalf of the Nation."

In addition to that valuable role, she has also been elected by Council to serve as Chair of the Executive Committee (EC). The EC's mandate is to oversee the work of the administration, 4

ensuring the organization at the staff level is supported and accountable in their day-to-day mission of providing services to Haisla members.

Duncan is no stranger to committee work on Council. She was the first Chair of the Own Source Revenue Committee when it was formed in 2013. She has also served as a member on the Executive Committee, and in 2015 was Chair of the Capacity Committee.

Duncan says she draws inspiration from the leaders she has worked with - including Chief Councillors Dolores Pollard, Ellis Ross, and now Crystal Smith - and never forgets the road paved by the efforts of all past Haisla leaders.

That includes past Chief Councillor Heber Maitland, who was there for the arrival of Alcan so many decades ago.

"He always asserted we'd have a share and a say," said Duncan. "His vision has always guided me."

She adds, "Our former leaders set the groundwork, with little resources."

And she is proud to see just how far Council has come over many years, and is excited for the work yet to be done.

Kevin Stewart, Stakeholder Relations Haisla Nation Councillor Kevin Stewart says he is very honoured after being elected by Council to be Chair of the Stakeholder Relations Committee (SRC).

Haisla Nation Council held a strategic planning session on the July 22 weekend, where Stewart was chosen to head the SRC. "I want to thank Haisla Nation Council for putting their faith in me for this important position and feel I am ready to take on this new challenge in the best interests of our membership," said Stewart.

Stewart has been a Councillor for 14 years, and has sat on numerous committees, including when Council operated under the former portfolio

system. That experience, he said, has given him insight into the relationship and responsibilities between the Council and the administration.

"I will strive to work in a team approach with the SRC and administration for the next two years, to meet our goals and objectives which we established during our strategic planning sessions," he said. "Our first order of business is for our committee to develop a work plan for the next two years and present it to Council. Once approved our plan will be presented to the Haisla membership."

Stewart also remains accessible for members to reach him. His e-mail is kevinstewart@haisla.ca, and his cell phone is 250-639-6159.

Crystal Smith, Chief Councillor After getting her feet wet in the role in an interim capacity, Crystal Smith is diving straight into her elected role as Chief Councillor.

"I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone for taking the time to vote in our Haisla election," said Smith, who has spent more than 10 years in a leadership role, and enjoys seeing the largest Haisla voter turn-out yet in June. "Thank you for your confidence and belief in me to be your Elected Chief Councillor. I am very grateful that I can continue to work on your behalf, as I find the work we do to be very rewarding.�

At two months into the Council's new term, Smith says there are a lot of projects underway and accomplishments so far.

Specifically, she points to the appointment of Brenda Duncan as Deputy Chief Councillor, as set out under the Haisla Custom Election Code, and her appointment to Chair of the Executive Committee.

At an organizational level, Smith is pleased that Council has accepted a proposed change to Haisla governance, relating to the committee structure. Where there used to be upwards of six committees, Council now has two, the Executive Committee and Stakeholder Relations Committee. “We have also agreed to two assessments," said Smith. "One, update our membership needs assessment that was completed in 2009. This will 5

be inclusive of all Haisla band members. And two, a review of our governance structure effectiveness in relation to our administration."

A proposal from the Executive Committee has also lead to a new Mentorship into Management program in the administration.

"This program is meant to encourage, assist and ensure our Haisla members and employees have opportunity for advancement in our organization," said Smith.

Council met on the July 22 weekend to plan strategic priorities, which, aside from seeing the appointment of Kevin Stewart as Chair of the Stakeholder Relations Committee, also had Council identifying their vision and mission statement, and develop their key goals and objectives for each of the two committees.

A detail work place is underway and will be completed in September for approval by the full Council. “Our work and progress to-date is very encouraging," said Smith. "I am looking forward to hearing from our members and seeing their active participation through the membership needs assessment."

Smith can be reached either through her Executive Assistant Teena Grant, at 250-639-9361, extension 205, or by e-mail at crystal.smith@haisla.ca.

What’s new in the landscaping and forestry program?

Beginning on August 8, 17 of the crew members began three weeks of Landscape Horticultural Technician training at KVI. Successful completion of the certificate will open opportunities for landscaping work all Over the summer the crew has received

across the province.

chainsaw safety certification, and cleared brush in yards around the village as a preventative measure to reduce potential harm from wildfires. This program was developed in conjunction with Brinkman Forest Ltd., which operate a Joint Venture

The reduced remaining forestry crew will complete loading of the brush before the project ends on August 30.

With the project concluding within the next couple of weeks, unfortunately not

with the Haisla Nation, the Haisla-Brinkman everyone who requested yard assistance will Forestry Joint Venture.

For questions, contact Tanya Rexin at trexin@haisla.ca, or 778-649-20256

have their work completed in time.

HAISLA NATION COUNCIL Education and Employment

New Education and Employment office marks grand opening August 10 Haisla Nation Council is pleased to mark the grand opening of the Haisla Nation Council Education and Employment office in Kitimat.

over the past year and it’s great that they now have a space where they can all be together and working comfortably to serve our members.”

The new office, at 606 Mountainview Square, unifies the services of education and employment for Haisla members under a single roof, and includes space to host meetings in its large board room.

The Education and Employment office includes three Job Coaches, a post-secondary coordinator, an academic advisor, a workplace coordinator, database developer, administrative support and the education manager.

“Having Haisla members receive education and ensuring they can find work is one of the biggest priorities for Haisla Nation Council,” said Chief Councillor Crystal Smith. “It’s a department which has expanded dramatically

Through the office, Haisla members can access a wealth of supports, ensuring they have success in their post-secondary studies, and be prepared with valuable job skills to enter the workforce in whichever profession they seek.

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Getting to know the

LAND CODE

BEST PRACTICES FOR IMPLEMENTING THE LAND CODE This month I would like to expand on the concluding statement from last months article.

"The Land Advisory Committee (LAC) is committed to involve our membership every step of the way; several First Nations in Canada have blazed the trail already".

The Haisla Membership ratified our Land Code in 2014 and we are now following the best practices checklist for Land Code Implementation. All of the initial steps are complete, so we are now moving into the Land Use Plan and next into the Law making process, starting with a review of our HNC by-laws.

There will be extensive consultations with all membership on these important items, using our HNC website, Facebook, door to door flyers, public meetings and one on one meetings. No stone will be left unturned, because the LAC wants our membership to be fully informed and participate in these discussions. At the end of the day the LAC can only make recommendations to the Full Council, final authority rests with HNC. 8

In doing some research for this article I did a google search "benefits of a land code". I encourage you to try this for yourself and read some of the top hits; it is inspiring information.

First Nations across Canada are getting stronger and smarter with each passing year.

We are not alone in our struggles and accomplishments. During the past year I have met some amazing people, especially at the Land Advisory Board Annual General meeting last October (2016) in Saskatoon.

There are regional variations in the opportunities and challenges, but at heart all First Nations are very similar.

Everyone who is ahead of us is willing to share with us their experiences and advice; just as we

are willing to help those who are just starting their journey.

We have contracted with McElhanney to help us with the document; they have done several LUP's in the past, so their advice has been quite helpful.

The photo at the left is of our "Land Code Eagle". We received this when our Land Code was ratified in 2014. It reads "HAISLA FIRST NATION LAND CODE‌.may prosperity and good governance reign over the beautiful lands and resources of the Haisla First Nation".

Your Land Advisory Committee is Elizabeth Robinson (Chair), Fred Ringham (HNC), Marilyn Furlan (Elders), Cyril Grant Jr (Hereditary Chiefs), Sherry Smith & Brent Robinson. We also have in an advisory role Chris Wilson (GIS mapping), Colin Light (community development) and Patti Wight (land advisory board).

Next month we will provide more detailed information on the Land Use Plan (LUP).

Currently we have most of the information assembled but we need to put it all into one document in the best way possible.

WHUH 9

Haisla Culture Camp at Weewanie

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c’imo’ca Family Services

Breaking Secrecy If you find out or suspect that your child has been sexually abused by a family member, family friend or acquaintance, it can take a toll on you as a parent. It’s important to find a way to manage your feelings, so you can focus on creating a safe environment for your child that is free from harm, judgment, and blame. It is imperative that when your child discloses to you, you continue to repeat the following messages through both your words and your actions: ● ● ● Be careful not to question your child but offer loving support. Do not ask WHY questions (“Why did you go to the house? Why didn’t you tell?”). These lines of questioning tend to sound accusatory. A child who has been instructed or threatened not to tell by the offender will be very reluctant and full of anxiety.

Seek professional help; the RCMP has the interviewing that assists young children who have disclosed. http://www.rcmp.gc.ca/en/gazette/youngvictims

Victim Link: 1-800-563-0808 Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 www.YouthInBC.com www.DomesticViolenceBC.ca If you need support or have been impacted by sexual violence, c’imo’ca Family Services is available.

250-639-9361 ext. 350, or 250-632-3600, Toll-Free 1-888-842-4752

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“Sexual violence can have psychological, emotional, and physical effects on a survivor.

These effects aren’t always easy to deal with, but with the right help and support they can be managed.”

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Providing outreach for Haisla in the Lower Mainland James Harry Sr. has been officially contracted by Haisla Nation Council as an Outreach/Peer Support Worker for Haisla members in Vancouver. It is our hope this new position will provide support and encouragement for our people that are struggling with drugs and alcohol addictions, mental health and homelessness on the Downtown Eastside. The overall goal is to work with at-risk members of the community to get the necessary help by liaising between the agencies that offers the relevant services for those who are in need. James can be found at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre.

“Three years ago I was struggling with alcohol and drugs, my life was in utter turmoil. Even though my life was in complete disarray, I always believed that I had more to offer to myself, family and community, but I didn’t know how to start. With a lot of soul searching, support and hard work, I am able to celebrate my three years of sobriety along with my wife. Making the decision to become sober was the best decision of my life. My desire is to now serve our people by helping them find the same happiness, forgiveness and freedom. If you know of a family member or friend who can use my services, please contact me at the following: Phone: 604-251-4844 Cell: 604-833-2939 Email: haislasupport@vafcs.org 1607 East Hastings Street Vancouver BC, V5L 1S7 “I am here even for a cup of coffee, wa.”

SCHOOL SUPPLY ALLOWANCE FORMS NOW AVAILABLE. Pick up in HNC Administration Building, Education and Employment office, or online at haisla.ca, under ‘news’ 15

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Above, Wednesday night crafts are open to all ages. At right, A new garden has sprouted at the Elder’s Centre!

Dustin Gaucher and Eric Bottah are seen showing their green thumbs, at the new tower garden at the Elder’s Centre. Across the street in the elders’ community garden were a number of find veggies such as cauliflower. (See below)

The news from nee n’wagilas Yowtz.

Prayers for our community to be safe and healthy. Our heartfelt condolences to families, friends and community. It’s been another emotional time for our community. Much love to all.

Join us for lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays for lunch. Call if you need a ride, ext. 409.

Wednesday evenings at 6.30 pm, Laverne‘s fun night. Draw, art, cards, or just visit. Open to all ages. a-kus.[come]. Need a ride? Give us a call Wednesday afternoon before 3 pm, extension 309, and leave a message, or 409 before 3 pm.

Did you know we don’t have capitals in our xaisla language?

Thank you to Dustin, Laverne and Lily for all you do for our elders You make my job much easier.

Meals on Wheels on Wednesdays. Clients, please call if you are not going to be home.

Much appreciated.

Thank you to Haisla Nation Council and staff for all you do for our xaisla. Be safe on your travels that you go on , on our behalf. wa

Congratulations to the Rediscovery Camp. A much needed place for our xaisla sesasum, cucex dlema, cucexdlema’id. Wa

aiks gwelas. wa

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Help improve doctor supports for patients in your community!

The First Nations Health Authority & the Pacific Northwest Division of Family Practice are holding Focus Group discussions, combined with Lunch or Afternoon Refreshments. By participating, you're helping decide the kinds of services provided by the new Aboriginal Patient Liaison.

NOTE: Your name and any identifying information you share with us will remain confidential. Your responses will be used collectively to help guide decision-making. You may refuse to participate or withdraw at any time and it will not affect the service you/your family receive in any way.

We appreciate the Haisla Health Department as our partner in providing this opportunity for discussion with the Haisla membership.

Focus Groups

Haisla Elder’s Center

August 22nd

12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

August 30

12:00pm –2:00 pm

(Lunch Provided) HNC Large Board Room (Lunch Provided)

For more information or to RSVP contact Laura, Rosanna or Crystal @ 250-632-3600 20

The Haisla Fisheries team and HNC staff distributed halibut to Haisla members at the Health Centre on August 11.

Have you checked your child car seat lately?

It is important that you install and use child car seats properly for them to perform well in a collision. It is recommended that you read both the child car sea and vehicle owner’s manuals to learn how to correctly install your child’s car seat in your vehicle.

Your model of child seat could have its own restrictions. Always contact the manufacturer directly if you have any concerns about installation guidelines.

Always use the top tether anchor when a child car seat is installed forward-facing.

Never use a child car seat when

your child weighs more than the maximum weight listed on its label.

If you are tempted to move your child to the next stage early (for example: moving a child from facing the rear to facing forward), don’t.

This may pose an increased safety risk to the child.

Transport Canada 1-613-993-0055 Public Enquiries, Motor Vehicle Safety Toll-free 1-800-333-0371 1-613-998-8616 Or, visit Transport Canada at http://tc.gc.ca 21

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They look smart, and are smart! Young scientists recently participated in the Geering Up UBC Engineering & Science for Kids. The non-profit organization has the mandate of promoting science, engineering and technology to youth across B.C. Affiliated with the University of British Columbia, Geering up is designed, organized and operated by UBC students. Geering Up was held here in Kitamaat Village from July 17th to 21st

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Highlight of changes to Education and Training policy Haisla Nation Council on August 11

for program and training funding, we'll ensure

approved the Education and Training policy,

that the resources available to help registered

which updates and modernizes the delivery of

Haisla members will be available well into the

educational and training services to Haisla

future.

members.

Spouses and dependents of Haisla members

The policy will continue to provide Haisla

will continue other supports, such as

members with training and education

academic advising, job placement assistance

opportunities and offer guidance to job

and training support services.

seekers.

These changes apply to all new applications.

Among the ways this policy seeks to better serve the membership, the Education

with an average grade point average of 3.0 in the previous year are allowed

department will continue provide Haisla

one failed course without a requirement to

members assistance to attend recognized, public post-secondary institutions.

Privately-run colleges are generally not considered by the department as providing the strongest education, however Haisla members

repay tuition. Students which fail more than one course, and/or have an average GPA of below 3.0, will be expected to repay the tuition costs. who successfully

can make a case to attend a particular private college to the education manager if they have reasons to attend. The department's criteria is

completes high school is eligible for the Graduation Completion Incentive. may apply for

generally that the institution is accredited by the BC Ministry of Advanced Education, and

transitional funding that would provide a

that a similar program is not available at a

slightly higher living allowance at the end of

public institution.

the academic year and/or the beginning of the next school year, to assist in the transition between school and summer employment.

Funding assistance will continue to be provided to ensure Haisla members receive

Any applications must demonstrate efforts to

training and job supports.

find employment and plan for the next

By focusing on Haisla members exclusively 24

academic year.

CALLING

that will be used as wall decals in

HAISLA

their new office.

ARTISTS

Each selected artist will receive a $250 honorarium per piece.

The Haisla Nation Council Education and Employment

Tanya Rexin at trexin@haisla.ca,

Office is asking for

by August 30.

A committee will review all the

Be Bear Safe - Hike during daylight hours in as large group as possible and stick together, especially in grizzly country.

- If you smell or see a dead animal, leave the area.

- Keep dogs on a leash and under control.

Dogs may agitate bears and create conflict.

- If you are hiking in grizzly habitat, carry bear spray and know how to use it.

- Use a telephoto lens to take photographs.

If You Encounter a Bear...

- Stay calm.

- Speak to the bear calmly but firmly to let it know you are not a threat.

- Do not run - back away slowly, moving in the direction you came from.

- If you must pass the bear, give it plenty of space, allowing it an easy escape route.

Every bear encounter is unique. Be aware that any bear could be a potential threat. How do you avoid a negative bear encounter?

- Be prepared! Learn as much as you can about bears before venturing into bear country.

- Stay alert! Watch ahead for bears and bear signs. Claw marks on trees, tracks, trampled vegetation, or droppings are all signs that bears may be nearby.

- Make your presence known by talking loudly, clapping, singing, or occasionally calling out.

Your voice will help identify you as human and non-threatening.

- Never feed a bear.

- Never be careless with your garbage or food scraps. Never keep food in your tent.

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Calendar August 18 1st Annual All Nations Golf Tournament 18 teams will tee off in a unique tournament co-hosted by All Nations Consulting Coaching (ANCC) and the Terrace and District Chamber of Commerce (TDCC). Contact: Michelle Taylor for info: 250-635-2063 executivedirector@terracechamber.com August 21-25 LAMP Vacation Bible School Children ages 5-12 are welcome to visit the Haisla United Church for bible stories, crafts, games and more.

Until August 31 Outdoor Thursdays with c’imo’ca View calendar on haisla.ca, or c’imo’ca on Facebook to learn more.

September 10 Kitimat River Cleanup Pull on your boots, roll up your sleeves and join in on the fun during BC Rivers Day! Head to the Riverlodge Rec Centre at 12pm.

Willard Grant and Heber Grant are making these cremation urns. The decal-style (smaller photo) will take up to four days to make, while the painted urn can take longer. These are built by donation. For more information contact Heber at 250-632-4973, or Willard at either 250279-0250, or 250-6325751.

For a full list of coming events, please visit haisla.ca/events.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES If you’re looking for job opportunities, please visit haisla.ca/council/job-opportunities, or the Job Board at capacitydevelopment.ca, or the Haisla Job Bank, at jobs.haisla.ca.

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A digital edition of the Dootilh is also posted to Haisla.ca.

Haisla Nation Council reserves the right to accept or decline to publish submissions.