Aboriginal day full doc

NATIONAL

Aboriginal Day June 21, 2015

•

• Working together page B2

Uniting Together & honouring ouR past “A day recognizing and celebrating the cultures and contributions of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples of Canada.”

• Local wins national writing award page B6 • Memories from Upper Nicola page B7 • Conyat turns 40 page B13 Published by the MERRITT HERALD

B2 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

June 18, 2015

ABORIGINAL DAY

WORKING TOGETHER David Dyck THE MERRITT HERALD

Coldwater Band Chief Lee Spahan hasn’t tasted Coho salmon in over 30 years. “The Coho, we were always told to conserve it, to build up the numbers,” he said. This year, though, he said he was amazed to find they’ve started coming back to the Coldwater River. He’s also worried it won’t last if the biosolids issue isn’t resolved soon.

“Our people are going back to our traditional ways, we’re trying to do a lot of hunting and fishing to make sure we don’t lose that for the younger generations,” he said. But he also said he’s happy with the progress they’ve made, and the unity they’ve shown.

Earlier this year, five chiefs of the Nicola Valley surrounding Merritt came together and signed a self-imposed moratorium on biosolids.

The action was notable not only for the politi-

Celebrating the contributions of

ABORIGINAL PEOPLE from Coast to Coast

cal statement it made, but also in the unity they displayed. As more than one of the chiefs noted, cohesion like this has not been seen in a long time, not just between the five bands of Upper Nicola, Lower Nicola, Nooaitch, Shackan, and Coldwater, but between first nations and non-first nations communities.

“The whole biosolids issue was really community driven at the beginning,” said Chief Aaron Sam. He’s the chief of the Lower Nicola Indian Band, and has been a strong voice for the anti-biosolids movement over the past year.

“It is about biosolids, or sludge, or whatever you want to call it, but really the underlying issue is having clean water, clean soil, a healthy environment, and ensuring that not just now but, into the future,” he said.

See Issue’s Page B3

250.378.2211

“Working together on the biosolids issue has helped bring our communities and our leaders closer together.

There’s even more of a willingness to work together into the future, in a way that hasn’t happened in the valley for a long time.”

- Lower Nicola Chief Aaron Sam

2380 Nicola Avenue, Merritt, BC

Proud to be part of the

Aboriginal community!

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THURSDAY, June 18, 2015 • B3

www.merrittherald.com

ABORIGINAL DAY

Issue’s simplicity makes cohesion easy From Page B2 Chief Shackelly, of the Nooaitch Indian Band, said the simplicity of the issue made cohesion easy. “You can add in layers of complexities, talking about policies, or regulations, or contracts are already signed,” he said. “But I think the principle behind it is really simple, and it’s one that as First Nations we’re taught at a really young age, that water is really powerful, and you treat it with respect.”

Highland Valley Copper

That simplicity makes the issue an easy one to rally support for, not just among the local bands, but with non-First Nations communities as well.

“Gathering that support and building that momentum and that understanding — an understanding that children can understand — allows more people to join in on the conversation,” said Shackelly.

Partners in the Community

See Not just Page B4

At Highland Valley Copper we are committed to inclusion and proactive engagement with our communities in the Nlaka’pamux territory.

“If we stand in unity we’re stronger. If we stand in unity we get things done.”

- Coldwater Chief Lee Spahan

On June 21 we encourage our communities to participate in the celebration which recognizes unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievement of the nation’s Aboriginal people.

We can be reached by Email: hvc.feedback@teck.com or Toll Free Telephone: 1-855-523-3429

B4 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

June 18, 2015

ABORIGINAL DAY

Not just moving the problem From Page B3 “It’s actually really building cohesion, not only among the local First Nations but between the local First Nations and our neighbours, neighbours that we haven’t talked with [before], we’ve really bonded with at the roadside information sessions.�

Chief Harvey McLeod of the Upper Nicola Indian Band agreed. “The unity amongst the chiefs, the unity amongst the community, the five bands, and the unity between native

and non-native communities gives us so much impact. The government has got to recognize and acknowledge that,� he said.

McLeod added that when it comes to this issue, it isn’t about stopping it from happening “in their back yard,� they have to find a permanent solution. “We know we have to do something with it, it’s a matter of how,� he said. “We know there are other options besides what they’re doing right now, and we want to have that dialogue.� “If we’re successful here in Merritt,

we’re just transferring that problem to another area, another group that may not have the same cohesion that we have,� agreed Shackelly. “So I’m hoping that we can hit a bigger solution instead of just transferring it to another region.�

The chiefs said they were hopeful the success they’ve had in gathering support and drawing attention to this issue would spread to other areas, beyond the biosolids debate.

We are proud to recognize and support

National Aboriginal Day 2338 Nicola Avenue, Merritt

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MOVING REAL ESTATE BC LTD. www.century21.ca/movingrealestate

See Moving forward Page B5 Ph: 250-378-6166 Toll Free: 1-877-841-2100

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“The unity amongst the chiefs, the unity amongst the community, the five bands, and the unity between native and non-native communities gives us so much impact. The government has got to recognize and acknowledge that.�

- Upper Nicola Chief Harvey McLeod

Merritt 0=E:7<5 13<B@3 1SZSP`ObW\U =c` 4W`ab <ObW]\a 1]\b`WPcbW]\a

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We re-open September 4th, 2015. Hope to see you then!

2076 Coutlee Avenue U 250-378-5252

Happy 19th National Aboriginal Day! NVIT is proud to honour Aboriginals across Canada in celebrating National Aboriginal Day. Take the opportunity on June 21 to engage in the festivities, learn about Aboriginal culture and heritage and share experiences with our community.

Please join us for the festivities at the Nicola Valley Aboriginal Day hosted by the Conayt Friendship Society, from 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm at Rotary Park. And if you have the chance, come visit us at our booth.

NICOLA VALLEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Your Home for Aboriginal Higher Education

NVIT.ca

THURSDAY, June 18, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ B5

www.merrittherald.com

ABORIGINAL DAY

Moving forward together, biosolids and beyond From Page B4 â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think working together on the biosolids issue has helped bring our communities and our leaders closer together,â&#x20AC;? said Sam. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even more of a willingness to work together into the future, in a way that hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t happened in the valley for a long time.â&#x20AC;?

Some bands have already made progress towards building an elderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home for their senior citizens, and working with each other to set aside culturally sensitive areas. Spahan said thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never been more critical than now.

When different groups approach them, either government agencies or private companies, requesting access to blocks of land, all of the bands need

to be at the table to talk about it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have one [band] that says, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Okay, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fine with us, we have nothing to say about it,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; yet another band will say, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;No, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want them to go there, because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very sensitive to us.â&#x20AC;?

Sam said that over the past year, working together towards a single goal has been good, and is optimistic that the trend will continue in other areas. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really hopeful that in the next year weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to take some real steps to promote economic development in the valley as well,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is just the beginning, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really hopeful â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not just hopeful, I know ­â&#x20AC;&#x201D; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll continue to work together, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m hopeful that out of that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see some real, positive outcomes here in the community. Not just for the bands, but for the whole valley.â&#x20AC;?

The Staff of the Merritt Herald would like to thank the Aboriginal community for their continued dedication to educating and upholding your cultural traditions, language and philosophies. We would like to take this time to honour the aboriginal peoples of Merritt and surrounding areas.

We dedicate this supplement to you!

MERRITT HERALD Check out online E-edition at www.merrittherald.com 2090 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC (250) 378-4241

â&#x20AC;&#x153;[There is] cohesion not only among the local first nations, but with the local first nations and our neighbours.â&#x20AC;?

- Nooaitch Chief Marcel Shackelly

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;This land. Her first people. With a deep respect for both, we work with aboriginal communities and individuals with mutual understanding, respect, trust and sensitivity to cultural values and traditions.â&#x20AC;?

NATIONAL

Aboriginal Day

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June 21, 2015

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THE MERRITT RCMP DETACHMENT WISH TO SINCERELY THANK

1750 Lindley Creek Rd., Merritt

250-378-2224

OUR HARDWORKING FIRST NATIONS POLICING SECTION WHO ARE: CPL. RICK AIRD, CST. MIKE DAMIEN, CST. ROSE GRANT AND CST. JOHN RYAN.

B6 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

June 18, 2015

ABORIGINAL DAY

Local First Nations actress wins national writing award Michael Potestio THE MERRITT HERALD

It doesn’t seem like there’s much Lower Nicola resident Sunshine O’Donovan can’t do.

The star of locally shot Shana: The Wolf ’s Music, a film about a young aboriginal girl who loses her mother, O’Donovan has now proven her talents off the stage.

She recently won first place in the junior writing category for ages 14 to 18 in Historica Canada’s aboriginal arts and stories competition for her narrative titled “Hell’s Gate.”

The story is a piece of historical fiction that comments on the impact humans have had on the environment using the 1913 rockslides in the Fraser River Canyon at Hell’s Gate as a backdrop.

One of the worst environmental disasters in B.C.’s history, the rockslides were caused by railway construction and cut off the annual salmon migration to spawning beds up the Fraser River.

It nearly wiped out salmon runs in the river and caused starvation amongst the local

Sunshine O’Donovan, already a proven acress, has now won a national award for a short story rooted in history First Nations.

The inspiration for O’Donovan’s story was derived from her concern regarding the future of salmon, and what would happen if they were destroyed as a result of human activity.

“I thought about aboriginal past and I brainstormed on it until I fell upon the topic of the Hell’s Gate rockslide,” said O’Donovan. “I was interested in how it affected the fish, but how it also affected the natives.”

She then began doing research on the topic, including talking with elders and a fishery worker.

The award ceremony for the aboriginal arts and stories contest was held in Toronto back on June 9.

O’Donovan travelled there to receive her award, and was toured around Toronto along with other artists in the competition.

She placed first out of some 80 writers in her age category from across the country.

In her story, O’Donovan provides a window into First Nations culture.

She begins by describing the death of a father character who was out fishing with a dip net.

We would like to extend a warm thank you to all our First Nations people for contributing to their community.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., 7 days a week

250-378-5564 Find us at the Railyard Mall (Garcia St.)

Put your best smile forward See O’Donovan Page B14

Everyone is Welcome

to attend Scw’exmx Child & Family Services’

Feel the Beat Program

Open to anyone, adults, youth, elders, families, native, non-native.

Put Your SMILE Forward as you help celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding achievements of the nation’s Aboriginal peoples.

NEW PATIENTS ALWAYS WELCOME!

DID YOU KNOW?

Stoyoma Dental is Merritt’s newest Dental Clinic. We are a Not For Profit Society serving all residents of Merritt and the surrounding areas. If you are covered by Status, Healthy Kids, Disability, Ministry or the Emergency Plan you are fully coverd for eligible services & no additional funds will be required of you!

OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

1999 Voght Street,

(next to the Credit Union) PO Box 3090, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8

Call: 250-378-5877

It is offered every Tuesday and Thursday at the Shulus Hall from 4:30 to 9pm!!! Bring food, it’s Potluck Style Come out and see what it’s all about, bring your family, bring a friend, invite others for some good family fun!!!

For more info please call the Cultural Program Coordinator at (250) 378-2771 or email: YouthWorker@scwexmx.com

THURSDAY, June 18, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ B7

www.merrittherald.com

ABORIGINAL DAY

Horses and night fishing in Upper Nicola

National

Aboriginal Day Sunday, June 21

JEANETTE MCMASTER In FRIENDSHIP For many years the people of Quilchena an Upper Nicola used to round up wild horses to restock their herd. The horses were either for riding or work, and the roundup was usually done in the spring or fall seasons.

The horses were wild and beautiful, their long dark manes flying high as they ran, kicking up dust as they were herded down into the corrals at Daniel Manuelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homestead.

Someone had a fire already burning, with registered brands ready to use. Once in the corrals, a cowboy was given the job of roping, and then throwing that horse down for someone to place their brand on it. This would go on till dusk.

This was a time to celebrate a great hay crop or just to celebrate their cattle, which

was the mainstay for our people. When cows had calves, and they survived the cold spring weather, that was a time to celebrate.

Women offered to have their home as a place to entertain, they gave their best in food, like dried sockeye salmon, roast beef, or canned sockeye salmon for sandwiches.

My mom used to share her air-dried kokinee fish warmed in the oven. So good.

The evening had special treats for everyone, like Indian ice cream, which is made from fresh or canned berries, whipped up into pink foam like ice cream.

A great treat! One or two tablespoons whips into a huge bowl.

Stories were another form of entertainment. Stories for children, like Alice in Wonderland, only told in the Syilx language and version.

Stories told by a fireside about Coyote the trickster, my favourite as a little girl, my grandmother would tell me for bedtime.

Special events like Easter or Christmas were planned ahead of time.

The entertainment would have square dancing, with Alfred Charters playing his violin and the Lindley brothers, Louie and Isaac playing their guitars and singing.

There was always something special to celebrate.

At Quilchena, the people would have night fishing, which was another social gathering. People would have a huge fire built by the creek, which gave us the night light.

Above the shadows floating around, there were children laughing and parents telling stories about what they did while they were teenagers or just visiting with one another.

Men would tell of their hunting trips, or talk about their horses.

Horses, those are a pride of the people, either as racehorses or teams of great breeding.

Most of our people had contracts with Douglas Lake Cattle Co. My dad did, and he used to feed the cattle for Douglas Lake during the winter months.

He did well, too. Of course, he had a great set of work horses, strong, and healthy.

My dad would have the cattle up on the top hayfields, when the haystacks had gone up there, he would move them down by the lakeside.

That was hard work, as my dad had to load the hay into the big sleigh, then drop the hay on the fields with pitchforks.

The cattle would follow along the sleigh as the hay was dropped off.

Then he had to chop holes on the frozen lake so the cattle would have water to drink.

Jeanette McMaster is an Elder and member of the Upper Nicola Band.

Jeremiah chapter 32; verse 41; Â Yea, I will rejoice over them to do them good, and I will plant them in this land assuredly with my whole heart and with my whole soul, says the Lord God.

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COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE MAINTENANCE & REPAIR Servicing all Makes & Models Peace of Mind

WARRANTY 2549 Nicola Ave.

12 months/20,000 Kilometres of worry-free protection on qualifying parts and labour

merrauto@live.ca

250-378-4821

Thank you for your hard work and dedication in keeping the Nicola Valley healthy for future generations.

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PROUD TO CELEBRATE OUR ABORIGINAL CULTURE. MARIOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TOWING WOULD LIKE TO SEND OUR SUPPORT AND WISHES FOR A STRONG FUTURE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME.

NATIONAL

Aboriginal Day June 21, 2015

From the Management & Staff Marioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Towing Group

250-378-9241 2676 Nicola Avenue, Merritt, BC

TF: 1-888-292-1581

www.marios-towing.com

B8 • THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

June 18, 2015

Nicola Tribal Association Congratulations First Nations GRAD CLASS OF 2015 WISHING YOU ALL THE BEST AND BRIGHTEST FUTURE! Coldwater Indian Band, Cooks Ferry Indian Band, Nicomen Indian Band, Siska Indian Band, Upper Nicola Indian Band, Shackan Indian Band, Nooaitch Indian Band, and Lower Nicola Indian Band

y a D l a n i g i r o b A l a n Natio

The Nicola Tribal Association would like to Celebrate National Aboriginal Day and wish everyone a summer celebration commemorating Aboriginal Heritage and Culture.

COLDWATER INDIAN BAND PO Box 4600 2249 Quilchena Ave., Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 250-378-6174 www.coldwaterband.com COOKS FERRY INDIAN BAND 10 #PY r %FFS -BOF Spences Bridge, BC V0K 2L0 250-458-2224 NICOMEN INDIAN BAND PO Box 670 1054 Spence Road, Lytton, BC V0K 1Z0 250-455-2514 SISKA INDIAN BAND PO Box 519 Lytton, BC V0K 1Z0 250-455-2219 UPPER NICOLA INDIAN BAND PO Box 3700 2225 Village Road, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 250-350-3342 www.uppernicolaband.com SHACKAN INDIAN BAND 2160 Settler’s Road, Merritt, BC V1K 1M9 250-378-5410 NOOAITCH INDIAN BAND 2954 Shackelly Road, Merritt, BC V1K 1N9 250-378-6141

Visit our website for more up-to-date information

www.nicolatribal.com administration@nicolatribal.org

250-378-4235

THURSDAY, June 18, 2015 • B9

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ABORIGINAL DAY

Aboriginal Day through the eyes of students Students from the Lower Nicola Indian Band School drew representations of what Aboriginal Day means to them.

Administration Tel 250 378.5157 Fax 250 378.6188

Community Services & Health

Celebrating Aboriginal Day June 21st

Tel 250 378.4089 Fax 250 378.9137

LNIB School

Tel 250 378.5527 Fax 250 378.6389

LNIB Fire Dept.

Tel 250 378.5110 Fax 250 378.6063 911 Emergency

Shulus Community Arena Tel 250 378.5180 Fax 250 378.5137

Economic Development & Natural Resources Tel 250 378.5157 Fax 250 378.6188

Lower Nicola Indian Band Mission Statement: “We the Lower Nicola Indian Band Council, as Stewards of the Nle’kepmx Pel Tmixw, in the spirit, devote our efforts in pursuing socio-economic opportunities while protecting and enhancing our Traditional Land and Cultural Values.”

181 Nawishaskin Lane | Merritt, British Columbia, Canada V1K 0A7 Email: reception@lnib.net | website: www.lnib.net

F ON

B10 • THURSDAY,

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June 18, 2015

ABORIGINAL DAY

Aboriginal Day through the eyes of students Students from the Upper Nicola Indian Band School drew representations of what Aboriginal Day means to them.

N’kwala School Parents, community members and staff working together to achieve the highest quality of education for our students to be lifelong learners.

N’kwala School School N’kwala

Parents, community members and staff working together to Parents, community members and staff working together to achieve the highest achieve the highest quality of education for our students to be quality of education for our students to be lifelong learners. lifelong learners.

STAFF MISSION STATEMENT

Check out the benefits at N’Kwala:

Small teacher student ratio maximizes learning w Student focused learning and teaching STAFF THAT EACH w Syilx language and culture  Small teacher student ratio maximizes learning MISSION w Healthy snacks and hot lunch provided STUDENT BE w Certified Category 2 Independent School – Provincial standards  Student focused learning and teaching STATEMENT AT OR ABOVE w K4 – Grade 12, including the Adult Graduation Diploma  Syilx language and culture w Open to all students 9410 N’Kwala Road

TO ENSURE

GRADE LEVEL

w

Check out the benefits at N’Kwala:

Douglas Lake, B.C.  Healthy snacks and hot lunch provided TO Serving ENSURE Phone: 250-350-3370 or 350-3342 (summer) communities: Email:School nkwala@uppernicolaband.com Merritt | Quilchena | Douglas Lake | Lower Nicola (TBC) Certified Category 2 Independent – Provincial standards EACH Check outTHAT the benefits at N’Kwala:  K4 – Grade 12, including the Adult Graduation Diploma  Small teacher student ratio maximizes learning STUDENT

THURSDAY, June 18, 2015 • B11

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B12 â&#x20AC;˘ THURSDAY,

June 18, 2015

www.merrittherald.com

THURSDAY, June 18, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ B13

www.merrittherald.com

ABORIGINAL DAY

CONYAT CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

We thank the 5 Nicola Valley bands for their support to ban bio solids.

We stand united in this fight for clean air, land and water!

Michael Potestio THE MERRITT HERALD

A helpful friend in the Nicola Valley is turning 40.

The Conayt Friendship Society, which aims to improve the quality of life, culture and strengthen the relationship between aboriginal and nonaboriginal members of the community, is celebrating four decades of service in Merritt.

In June of 1975, the provincial government recognized what was then called the Nicola Valley Friendship and Counselling Society as a non-profit communitybased organization under the Societies Act. Eight years later, the non-profit changed itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name to what it is today.

The term Conayt comes from the Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux word meaning â&#x20AC;&#x153;helping others.â&#x20AC;?

Having been based out of different locations over the years, the soci-

FRIENDS OF THE NICOLA VALLEY

kʡukʡstÊyp

Have a Happy Aboriginal Day! From everyone at (250) 378 6808 Located at 1951 Garcia Street

Recognizing the contributions from different cultures of the Aboriginal peoples of Canada.

OPEN 10-6PM 7 DAYS A WEEK

70()5 45 .&33*55 #$ t

Staff at the Conayt Friendship Society, which turns 40-years-old this month. Michael Potestio/Herald

ety is currently set up at 2164 Quilchena Ave. It got its start when six people came together and recognized the need

to establish an organization to serve the Merritt areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growing number of urban aboriginal people.

Victor York, Conayt Friendship Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s addictions counsellor, was one of those six.

SHOP ONLINE AT LEMONADESTAND420.COM

Citxw Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Assembly and

Citxw Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Assembly and Highland Valley Copper Highland Valleyinvites Copper invites you to the you to the Citxw Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Ass Citxw Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Assembly and Highland Valley Copper invi See 40 Page B15 invites you to the

Merritt Open House Merritt Open House Merritt O Where: The Merritt CivicCenter Center Where: The Merritt Civic Merritt Open House Date: June 24,2015 2015 Date: June 24, Where: The Merritt Civic Center When: 7:00pm When: 1:001:00pm pm toto7:00 pm Date: June 24, 2015

Where: The Date When: 1

When: 1:00pm to 7:00pm

NATIONAL

Pleasejoin joinususfor forananOpen Open Houseatat Merritt Civic Center onOpen Please joinCenter us for an Please House thethe Merritt Civic on June Ho 24, 2015. will Dinner be served at 5:00 pm.

ThereDinner will be Citxw will be served 24,June 2015.

Dinner be will served from 5:30 PM24, to2015.

6:30 PM. There will be Citxw Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Asse Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Assembly and Highlandand Valley Copper representatives Citxw Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Assembly Highland Valley Copper representatives available t Please joinavailable us for an House at to theanswer Merritt Civic Center on representatives any questions orJune concerns. to Open answeravailable any questions or concerns.

24, 2015. Dinner will be served from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. There will be For more info For more information please contact: CitxwFor Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Assembly and Highland Valley Copper Juanita Quewezance moreQuewezance information please contact: Juanita Quewezance at at 250Juanita at 250-378-6174 or jquewezance@cna-trust.ca representatives available to answer any questions orNatasha concerns.

Fountain at 250-378-6174 or jquewezance@cna-trust.ca Natasha Fountain at 250-523 Natasha Fountain at 250-523-3334 or Natasha.Fountain@teck.com.

For more information please contact: 250-523-3334 or Natasha.Fountain@teck.com.

Aboriginal Day The City of Merritt is proud to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples.

City Hall: 2185 Voght Street â&#x20AC;˘ P: 250.378.4224 â&#x20AC;˘ F: 250.378.2600 â&#x20AC;˘ www.merritt.ca

Juanita Quewezance at 250-378-6174 or jquewezance@cna-trust.ca Natasha Fountain at 250-523-3334 or Natasha.Fountain@teck.com.

Citxw Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Dinner Provided Citxw Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Assembly

Dinner Provided Door Prizes Available Assembly Dinner Provided Door Prizes Available Citxw Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Door Prizes Available Assembly

Din Door

B14 • THURSDAY,

Kamloops

www.merrittherald.com

June 18, 2015

ABORIGINAL DAY

G SOMETHIN G IN IS HAPPENOPS AT KAMLO .

D O D G E HE

O’Donovan beats out competitors for publication in Canada’s History magazine T COME FEEL FOR E DIFFERENC F! YOURSEL

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that are meant to promote “I’m just very happy that this story can Canadian history.

The organization is probabe shared to a bigger audience, because I bly best known for creating the think this is a very important subject.”

Heritage Minute T.V. spots.

2014 COMPASS NORTH NO 2014 CHRYSLER 300 LIMITED Entries in its competition - Sunshine O’Donovan from aboriginal peoples across

From Page B6

The passage goes on to describe the process through the recollection of the main 2014 GRAND CHEROKEE character ShpetzenDIESEL — named OVELAND for the plant used to make string for rope and nets.

O’Donovan herself has never been dip netting, but said she gathered the information from a documentary. as their local food supplies are She also describes $ dwindling Shpetzen’s first encounter with 8,050as winter comes, but IN DISgrandmother their is too sick to a white man while picking berCOUNTS ! travel and is left behind. ries with her grandmother for Along the way, Shpetzen’s the winter. mother, unable to feed her The railroad construction baby boy, leaves him in a tree leads to large rocks falling 2010 R/T hoping someone finds him and into the river, which DODGE block the JOURNEY AWD cares for him. salmon from spawning.

O’Donovan said that is a First Nations try to save the true story she heard from her fish by packing them along own mother’s stepfather. the canyon walls and releasing STK#U7442 The story ends with them upstream — which is hisShpetzen and the rest of her torically accurate.

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Canada are accepted yearSupporting round and the goal is to proAboriginal Day vide a platform for young First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists celebrate Canada’s to share their culture and heriIndigenous culture! first place win, the story will tage through literary and visual www.canadiantire.ca be published in Canada’s History arts, said Historica Canada$ $ $ 12,8 6 ,7 6,1 magazine. program officer Eric Wright.

IN DISCO20 IN DISCO 80 IN DISCO60 U UNTS! &ORKSDALE !VE -ERRITT "# s N T S !

UNhappy TS! “I’m just very that The competition has a wide this story can be shared to age range of 11 to 29, handing All Payments men eaudience, nttss a are rre e PPlus lusbecause lus lu TTax, Ta axx,, OAC O over out 96 months a bigger awardsatfor6%writing and arts, PROUDLY SUPPORTING I think this is a very imporwith age groups separated into 2011 TUNDRA tant subject and we need to three categories.

SR5 4WD talk more about what we’re O’Donovan said she hopes doing to the environment,” that from this story others will STORE HOURS O’Donovan said.

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THURSDAY, June 18, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ B15

www.merrittherald.com

ABORIGINAL DAY

40 years of friendship at Conayt Although the society is supposed to provide support services for First Nations exclusively, their philosophy is to never turn away anyone in need From Page B13 York said they obtained federal funding back in 1975 in order to fund three positions and get the organization up and running. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now we had core funding. We had a base,â&#x20AC;?

York said, noting it had a â&#x20AC;&#x153;shoestringâ&#x20AC;? budget.

Today, Conayt has 17 paid staff and many volunteers.

In the early days, the society provided just a few services such as applications for employment insurance, and helped people put resumes together. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heck, we did everything in those days,â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The frienship centre itself has come a long way and what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to do now is move with the times.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Victor York, Conayt Friendship Society addictions counsellor

York said.

Conayt today has a greater array of services, offering 11 programs and providing housing for low income aborigi-

nal families, childcare, and drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

The society has had federal funding for the past 40 years, but at one

point in its early days its funding was almost pulled by the federal government when the group ran into financial problems. Members of

the organization used their own homes as collateral to maintain the funding, York said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And that was a crazy thing to do, according to a lawyer,â&#x20AC;?

York said.

To secure funding sources to keep the society going year after year, the society needs to show the organizations they submit proposals to that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doing something good for the community.

York said that although the society is supposed to provide support services for First Nations exclusively, their philosophy is to never turn away anyone in need.

York said the Conayt Friendship Society was a first of its kind organization in Merritt and believes the public recognizes it as a contributing member of the community today.

Looking to the future, York said he hopes the society can become self

sufficient. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The friendship centre itself has come a long way and what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to do now is move with the times,â&#x20AC;?

York said.

The society also looks forward to offering more programs as it heads into its next 40 years.

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Friendly, professional service, from people who care.

Blackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pharmacy 2VJMDIFOB "WF .FSSJUU #$ r

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OPEN HOUSE AND BBQ

Friday, June 26 - 10 am to 3 pm

EVERYONE IN THE VALLEY IS WELCOME TO ATTEND OUR CELEBRATION! WE WILL BE HAVING A NON-PROFIT YARD SALE TO LIQUIDATE OLD PROGRAM SUPPLIES AND FURNITURE IN THE BACK ALLEY.

CONAYT MEANS â&#x20AC;&#x153;HELPING OTHERSâ&#x20AC;?

Conayt 40th Anniversary Cake cutting & BBQ in the back alley, between 11am-2pm

Conayt Summer Day Camp 2015 - taking registrations for children, 10-14 years.

Open House to showcase programs and services: - Nurse Practitioner - come ďŹ nd out what Julia can do for you!

- Merritt Moms and Families - Alcohol and Drug Program - Conayt Elders Drop In Centre

Urban Partnerships - youth training - talk to Kasl James, UP Coordinator and Charlene Joe, Employment Councilor about registration for upcoming training opportunities.

2164 Quilchena Avenue â&#x20AC;˘ For more inforamtion call 250-378-5157

B16 â&#x20AC;˘ THURSDAY,

www.merrittherald.com

June 18, 2015

Aboriginal Day NATIONAL

Aboriginal Day Celebrations Sunday, June 21, 2015 Rotary Park - Merritt, BC

Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Ceremonies: Victor York and James Adam 8:00 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10:00 am 10:00 am

National Aboriginal Day Celebrations Tipi RaisingVoght LessonPark - VOLUNTEERS (Men) WELCOME AND NEEDED TO HELP RAISE THE TIPIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ( 1500 Canford Avenue) BC Opening remarks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Nicola Merritt Tribal Chiefs

Welcome Songs led by Esther Shackelly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ALL hand drummers welcome!

National Aboriginal Celebrations DRAFT Day Schedule of Events &Opening Activitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all areOkanagan, at Voght Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux, Park National Aboriginal Prayer activities & Welcome: English & French Day Celebrations Voght Park ( 1500 Canford Avenue)Hoop Dance Performance by Coldwater Indian Band School Rotary Park TOMerritt BC THE TIPIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 8:00 BC am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10:00 Tipi Raising Lessonâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Adrian Retasket - VOLUNTEERS WELCOME AND NEEDED HELP RAISE Nicola Valley Metis Dance Performance Merritt

Proudly hosted by t Conayt Friendship Statlimux Singers Society Opening remarks â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Master ofBerry Ceremonies Songs activities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ALL hand drummers itiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all activities are at10:00 Voght Park DRAFT Schedule of Picking Events/&Welcome Activitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all are at Rotarywelcome!

Park on Sunday, June 21, 2015 Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Dance Opening & Welcome: Okanagan, Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux, English & French FeelPrayer The Beat Dance Troupe performance Lessonâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Adrian Retasket - VOLUNTEERS WELCOMEHoop AND Dance NEEDEDPerformance TO HELP RAISE theTIPIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Akachuk 8:00 amby â&#x20AC;&#x201C;THE 10:00 Tipifamily Raising Lesson- VOLUNTEERS (Men) WELCOME AND NEEDED TO HELP RAISE THE TIPIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

10:30 am Aboriginal Daywelcome!

Activities commence marks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Master of Ceremonies / Welcome Songs â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Aboriginal ALL hand drummers 10:00 commence Opening remarks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Nicola Tribal Chiefs 10:30 DayBoothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Activities r Activity Open / Father Son Lookalike Contest Registration Opens Please be prepared ayer & Welcome: Okanagan, Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux, English & French Welcome Songs led by Paul Joeâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; ALL hand drummers welcome!for ď&#x192; Activity Boothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open r Vendorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craft and sale booths Open outdoor activities! e Performance by the Akachuk family Prayer & Welcome: Okanagan,the Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux, English & French ď&#x192; Vendorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craft and sale booths OpenforOpening r Syilx & Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Tipiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s open language, song and story telling Hoop Dance Performance by Coldwater Indian Band School r Archery Demonstration by language Nicola Valley ď&#x192; Syilx Tipi opens for Okanagan andArchersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;BJ story telling Moore Day Activities commence Nicola Valley Metis Dance Performance Bring lawn chairs, Please preparedbyfor r Moccasin Mileopens â&#x20AC;&#x201C;beorganized Gilbert Mike ď&#x192; Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Tipi for Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux language and story telling oothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open Statlimux Singers the outdoor rest activities! umbrellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, day tents, r Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s / Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; designated tipi for Merritt Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craft and sale booths Open ď&#x192; Moccasin Mile â&#x20AC;&#x201C; organized by Buzz Manuel Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Berry Picking Dance r Elderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visiting / rest area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; designated tipi for Elders opens for Okanagan language and story telling ď&#x192; Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s / Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rest area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; designated tipi for Dance Merritt Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Feel The Beat Troupe performancesunscreen and your Bring lawn chairs, mux Tipi opens for Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux language and storyď&#x192; telling own picnic lunch!

Elderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visitingTeen / rest/ Adult area â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Contests designated tipi for Elders am Children /umbrellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, theActivities day to include: tents, throughout 10:30 day Aboriginal Day commence Mile â&#x20AC;&#x201C; organized by 11:00 Buzz Manuel r #BCZ $SBXMJOH $POUFTU ď&#x192; Activity Boothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open 11:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2:00 pm Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Craftssunscreen Booth and your r 8JME 4UJDL )PSTF 3BDF / Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rest area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; designated tipi for Merritt Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A reminder this is a r 8BUFS #BMMPPO 5PTT

r 4BDL SBDF &HH 4QPPO 3BDF Vendorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craft and sale booths Open own picnic lunch! ď&#x192; Colour the Medicine Wheel & write upď&#x192; meaning siting / rest area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; designated tipi for Elders r 8BUFS 1BSL PQFO BMM EBZ r 0UIFS HBNFT UP CF BOOPVODFE drug and free ď&#x192; Syilx & Nlakaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;pamux Tipiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s open for language, songalcohol and story telling ď&#x192; Bracelet & necklace making r 5ISFF MFHHFE SBDF r #FBS &BHMF HBNF BHF

Crafts Booth event. ď&#x192; Archery Demonstration by Nicola Valley Archersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;BJ Moore A reminder this is a e Medicine Wheel & write 11:00 up meaning ď&#x192; Moccasin Mile organized by Gilbert Mike Children / Teendrug / Adult Contests throughout the day to â&#x20AC;&#x201C;include: andand alcohol free Randy Chillihitzia band to play during lunch and during festivities & necklace making 11:00 am - 2:00 pmď&#x192; Baby ď&#x192; Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s / Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rest area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; designated tipi for Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crawling Contest ď&#x192; Sack race / Egg & Spoon Race Everyone inMerritt the Nicola event. ď&#x192; Elderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visiting / rest area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; designated tipi for Elders BalloonCrafts Toss Booth ď&#x192; Other games to be announced Valley is welcome to Teen / Adult Contests11:00 throughout to include: amtheâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; day 2:00 pmď&#x192; Water Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ď&#x192; Three legged race Bear/Eagle (age:Crafts 3-4/5-7/8-10/11-13) wling Contest ď&#x192; Sack race / Egg & Spoon Race r Colour the Medicine & writegame up meaning 11:00inď&#x192; â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Wheel 2:00 pm Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Booth come share in the Everyone the Nicola r Bracelet & necklace making lloon Toss ď&#x192; Other games to be announced ď&#x192; Colour the Medicine Wheel & write up meaning Valley welcome festivities!

11:00-1:00 Randy Chillihitzia and is band to playtoduring lunch and during festivities ged race ď&#x192; Bear/Eagle game (age: 3-4/5-7/8-10/11-13) ď&#x192; Bracelet & necklace making come share in the 11:30 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C;and 3:30 pmHot dogs Hot dogs / Watermelon Boothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 11:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3:30 / Watermelon Boothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s open open festivities!

Proudly hosted by the ihitzia and band to play during lunch during festivities 11:00 Children / Teen / Adult Contests throughout the day to include: r 2:00 pm /Watermelon Eating Contes t â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Child / Teen / Adult categories ď&#x192; Child / Teen Adult categories ď&#x192; Baby Crawling Contest ď&#x192; Wild Stick Horse Race Friendship Conayt Watermelon Boothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s open Proudly hosted by the ď&#x192; Water Balloon Toss ď&#x192; Sack race / Egg & Spoon Race Society pmpmâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4:00 pm Watermelon Nicola Valley Dance ORwatermelon Grand entrybooth â&#x20AC;&#x201C; EatingRound Contest â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at the een / Adult categories2:002:00 Conayt Friendship ď&#x192; Water Balloon Fights ď&#x192; Other games to be announced Nicola Valley Round Dance / Intertribal Dancing Society ď&#x192; Three legged race ď&#x192; Bear/Eagle game (age: 3-4/5-7/8-10/11-13) n Eating Contest â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at the watermelon 1:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pmbooth Grand entry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Travelling Spirit r 'FFM 5IF #FBU %BODF 1FSGPSNBODF r *OUFS 5SJCBMT For Information: r 1PUBUP %BODF 0XM %BODF r 'SJFOETIJQ %BODF Inter-Tribals ď&#x192; Feel The Beat Dance Performance ď&#x192; Randy 11:00-2:00 Chillihitzia and band to play during lunch and during festivities Deloris Charters at y â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Travelling Spirit Information: r &WFSZPOF JT XFMDPNF UP EBODF r 3PVOE %BODF Dance ď&#x192; Travelling SpiritFor Pow Wow Dancers ď&#x192; Friendship Beat Dance Performance ď&#x192; Inter-Tribals 250-378-5107 11:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3:30 at ď&#x192; Hot dogs Dance / Watermelon Boothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s open Deloris Charters Round g Spirit Pow Wow Dancers ď&#x192; Friendship Dance ď&#x192; Potato Dance / Owl Dance 2:00 pm Watermelon Eating Contest â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Child / Teen / Adult categories 250-378-5107 Aboriginal Day Bingo starts HBNFT MFBEJOH UP CMBDLPVU

Round Dance ance / Owl Dance 1:30ď&#x192; pm 1:30 Aboriginal Day Bingo2:00 starts (5 games leading toValley blackout) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm Nicola Round Dance OR Grand entry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Travelling Spirit ay Bingo starts (5 games leading to blackout) ď&#x192; Feel The Beat 3:003:00pm pm of War â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Registration of teams at the info boothDance Performance ď&#x192; Inter-Tribals Tug ofTug Warâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Registration of teams at the info booth ď&#x192; Travelling Spirit Pow Wow Dancers ď&#x192; Friendship Dance â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Registration of teams at the info booth ď&#x192; Potato Dance / Owl Dance 4:00pm Closing prayer / closing remarks ď&#x192; Round Dance 4:00 pm Closing prayer1:30 / closing remarksAboriginal Day Bingo starts (5 games leading toAboriginal blackout) er / closing remarks Advisory Council Aboriginal Council 3:00pm Tug of umbrellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Warâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Registration of teams at the info all day Please be prepared for the outdoor Advisory activities!

Bring lawn chairs, day tents, sunscreen andboothâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;registration your own picnic lunch!

A reminder this is a drug and alcohol free event. Everyone in the Nicola Valley is welcome to come share in the festivities!

4:00pm Closing prayer / closing remarks Nicola Valley Native Veterans funded part of this Event

Nicola Valley Native Veterans funded part of this Event

This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada.

Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Ceremonies) Victor York and James Adams

Please be prepared for the outdoor activities!

Bring lawn chairs, umbrellaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, day tent sunscreen and you own picnic lunch!

A reminder this is a drug and alcohol fre event.

Everyone in the Nicola Valley is welcome to come share in the festivities!

For Information: Deloris Charters at 250-378-5107

Aboriginal Advisory Council

Aboriginal This project is funded in part by the Advisory Council This project is funded in part by the Government Canada.

Government of of Canada.

Proudly Hosted by Conayt Friendship Society â&#x20AC;˘ For more info call Deloris Charters at 250-378-5157