Volume 11 • Issue 08
SEPTEMBER 2015
THIS IN THE AMAZING RUNNING , PART 2 PLACE
CARLEEN THOMAS PAGES 6-11 NDP CANDIDATE ELECTION FEATURE 2015
CELEBRATING PAGES 4-5 ELDERS PAGES 16-17
SCHOOL FUTURES MALAHAT’S BIG BUY PAGES 4-5
PAGE 2
CUZZINS POW-WOW PAGES 8-9
FACES PHOTOS PAGES 10-11
Proud neighbour, committed to community. At Port Metro Vancouver we are committed to the development of long-term working relationships with Aboriginal groups who share an interest in the lands and waters we manage. As we monitor the safety and efficiency of traffic on the water, we wish all marine travelers a safe and enjoyable season. For marine-related assistance within Port Metro Vancouver’s jurisdiction, call our 24/7 Operations Centre at 604.665.9086.
Moving forward with energy solutions At FortisBC, we work hard to provide the energy you rely on every day. From electricity and natural gas, to propane and thermal energy solutions, our more than 2,260 employees are dedicated to the communities where they live and work. Together, we are moving energy solutions forward to meet the unique needs of B.C. Discover more at fortisbc.com.
FortisBC uses the FortisBC name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (15-092 02/2015)
NAUT’SA MAWT TRIBAL COUNCIL NATIONS
OPINION EDITORIAL TEAM Mark Kiemele editor@salishseasentinel.ca | 250-246-3438 Tricia Thomas triciathomas@salishseasentinel.ca | 250-709-2929 PUBLISHER Naut’sa mawt Tribal Council 330-6165 Highway17A Delta, BC V4K 5B8 Gary Reith, CAO 604-943-6712 | 1-888-382-7711 GRAPHICS & ART Salish Eye Productions Footeprint Communications ADVERTISING & DISTRIBUTION Manoj Sood ads@salishseasentinel.ca | 604-723-8355 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT # 42922026 Undeliverable mail may be returned to: 330-6165 Highway 17A, Delta, BC, V0R 4G2 circulation@salishseasentinel.ca
The Salish Sea Sentinel is published monthly, eleven times a year, by the Naut’sa mawt Tribal Council, representing 6,500 people in 11 member nations. Salish Sea Sentinel is all rights reserved. Contents and photographs may not be reprinted without written permission. The statements, opinions and points of view expressed in articles published in this magazine are those of the authors. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscriots, photographs, transparencues or other materials. OUR MISSION Coast Salish 24/7 Stay Naut’sa mawt SalishSeaSentinel
@SalishSentinel
www.salishseasentinel.ca Deadline for editorial and advertising is the 15th of every month.
COVER PHOTO: Carleen Thomas of Tsleil-Waututh
Nation is running the in federal election. See page 4-5. Photo by Tricia Thomas.
1. HALALT (250) 246-4736 chief@halalt.org www.halalt.org
7. SNUNEYMUXW (Nanaimo) (250) 740-2300 johngwesley@shaw.ca www.snuneymuxw.ca
2. HOMALCO (250) 923-4979 m.enevoldsen@homalco.com
8. STZ’UMINUS (Ladysmith) (250) 245-7155
3. KLAHOOSE Qathen Xwegus Management Corp (250) 935-6536 www.klahoose.com 4. MALAHAT (250) 743-3231 lawrencelewis@malahatnation.com www.malahatnation.com 5. SLIAMMON (604) 483-9646 clint.williams@sliammon.bc.ca www.sliammonfirstnation.com www.sliammontreaty.com 6. SNAW-NAW-AS (Nanoose) (250) 390-3661 administrator@nanoose.org nfnbandmanager@nanoose.org www.nanoose.org
Ray.Gauthier@coastsalishdevcorp.com
www.stzuminus.com 9. TSAWWASSEN (604) 948-5219 chartman@tfnedc.com www.tsawwassenfirstnation.com 10. TSLEIL-WAUTUTH (604) 929-3454 bbaptiste@twnation.ca www.twnation.ca 11. T’SOU-KE (Sooke) (250) 642-3957 administrator@tsoukenation.com www.tsoukenation.com
SALISH SEA SENTINEL 1
ENJOY COAST SALISH TERRITORY
OPINION
LEARNING FOR OUR FUTURE LEADERS
I
by Tricia Thomas
n the past, a Coast Salish child learned by watching and experiencing dayto-day life within the family. His or her unique talents became apparent to the community as the child took part in hunting, fishing, gathering, preserving foods, weaving, carving, storytelling, dancing, drumming and healing. That recognition gave the child a sense of identity and purpose about what role to play in the community. Parents are still the first teachers. We have to start early to honour our children’s spirits, naming the qualities we
see in them and modeling the universal values we want to encourage, such as kindness, honesty and respect. It isn’t long before peer pressure becomes a powerful motivating force for the growing child. Today our children also learn about themselves and the enormous world around them by going to school. A growing number of schools are incorporating cultural activities and lessons into the curriculum and showing more acceptance for the differences of First Nations students. We’ve come a long way from Residential School. Studies have shown that students who have a sense of personal and cultural identity have the greatest success at school. Young children who have been around cultural activities, heard a native
language and spent time with elders will always remember the spiritual connection they have with their heritage. Those influences are important, whether received at home, in preschool Head Start or in early learning immersion programs. We congratulate all Aboriginal children and youth who are continuing or about to embark on their studies at school, college, university or in training programs. We hope you can open your minds to the teachings while continuing to embrace your culture and share who you are as a Coast Salish person. We encourage you to find your own unique skills and gifts and to carry your learning forward in your community. We honour you on your learning path. You are our future leaders.
Spread the Word Sentinel ad
2 SALISH SEA SENTINEL
Acting chief, Tommy Harry announcing the project deal with CEO Lawrence Lewis (right). photo: Tricia Thomas
NEW CHIEF, AN ELECTION AND NOW LNG
T
he summer of 2015 may be long remembered at Malahat First Nation. The small nation on Saanich Inlet doesn’t make the news that often, but starting in mid-July, people around the Salish Sea began paying it attention. It began with the nation’s purchase of the 535-hectare Bamberton property adjacent to the reserve lands. The deal for the former industrial site was reported to be $37.5 million, but Malahat was keeping mum on how it would use the land. (See Malahat Grows in more way than one! at www.salishseasentinel.ca). Then, in early August, came the sudden resignation of Chief Michael Harry over alleged financial improprieties. His name appeared in BC Supreme Court filings in a case involving a contaminated soil treatment facility in nearby Shawnigan Lake. Days later the first web rumours surfaced about using the Bamberton site for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) project. A few days after that, councillor Tommy Harry
by Mark Kiemele was named interim chief and his first big announcement was that a Malahat general election would be held two months early, on Nov. 2. But the biggest news, perhaps, came on August 20 when Malahat’s plans for the Bamberton site were revealed. A crowd of media, community members and others filled the Kwunew Kwasun centre as the nation announced a partnership with Steelhead LNG for BC’s newest gas project. “We are excited about this opportunity,” Chief Tommy Harry said. He added that it
The Bamberton cement plant in 1957 Photo: BC Archives
“is an indication that our nation is open for business.” Speaking about his nation’s comprehensive development plan, he said: “We recognized that to achieve that vision, we needed to look beyond our nation to develop new business relationships.” The LNG project is just in preliminary stages and much work needs to be done before the floating facility becomes a reality. Vancouver-based Steelhead is involved in a similar deal with Huu-ay-aht First Nation to build a facility at Sarita Bay on Vancouver Island’s west coast. As for the coming election, Chief Harry said: “The allegations [against Michael Harry]… are serious and regrettably reflect on Malahat. We have accomplished so much in a short period. It is important we have a government that demonstrates first and foremost its commitment and responsibilities to its members. “We are strong, united and focused on building a big, bold and beautiful Malahat Nation.” SALISH SEA SENTINEL 3
ELECTION 2015
OUR VOI CE\O/OUR PEOPLE How often do you show up to vote in a federal election?
Carleen Thomas with parents Ernest and Dee George
S
ince 1960, the Canadian Government has allowed First Nations people to vote, but there is often a feeling, especially among people living on reserves, that “it won’t make any difference”. But with a number of candidates with Aboriginal interests around the Salish Sea in the October 19 elections, there is good reason to cast your ballot and make sure that our voices are heard.
4 SALISH SEA SENTINEL
Former Quatsino Nation chief Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi is the Green Party candidate for the sprawling CowichanMalahat-Langford riding. Some analysts have forecasted a good chance for her as the three main parties split the vote in one of the up-for-grabs ridings on Vancouver Island. She was one of the first candidates to begin campaigning and published her first ad in The Sentinel in early summer. A successful Langford business owner, Fran holds a bachelor degree in social work, a masters degree in adult education and has completed the coursework for a doctorate in philosophy, focusing on education psychology and leadership studies). She was also the inaugural director of the Office of Indigenous Affairs at the University of Victoria.
Brenda is a Green
Carleen runs for the NDP Carleen Thomas from Tsleil-Waututh Nation is the NDP candidate in the North Vancouver riding. She grew up around politics, learning from her grandfather – John L. George, the hereditary and elected chief. Now she says she is carrying on his mission of finding a way for everyone to co-exist together. Carleen feels that NDP values are closest to her own. She is family-oriented and the community is of strong importance. “I never thought of myself as a politician, but I care about the people in North Vancouver, and the future of the city. I believe in the equality of all Canadians and we have to find a way to co-exist by
Fran says she can
Leah George-Wilson
forging stronger relationships between the city and First Nations.” Carleen served as a councillor for her nation for 13 years. She is currently the inter-governmental relations manager for the TWN Sacred Trust Initiative, which opposes expansion of the Trans Mountain Pipeline. With Tsleil-Waututh roots in the Burrard Inlet area going back thousands of years, she believes it is “our sacred duty to protect our land and water for future generations”.
Brenda Sayers of Hupacasath nation, for the Green Party, will be going up against John Duncan in this new riding. She has been the financial administrator at Haahuupayak School since 1996. Brenda recently gained a national reputation her fight to force Canada to overturn a trade treaty with China.
A carver’s partner Rachel Blaney, NDP, is a former employment officer for Homalco and now is executive director of the Immigrant Welcome Centre in Campbell River. She is also given a good chance at victory since MP John Duncan decided to run in the new Courtenay-Alberni riding.
ELECTION 2015 In the background at Rachel Blaney’s NDP campaign stops in the North Island-Powell River riding is her husband Darren, often working away on a carving. He is the former chief and a current councillor at Homalco First Nation.
Riding…what’s that? Canada is divided into 338 districts – ridings – for voting in the 2015 federal election. Here is what riding you vote in if you live on one of the eleven Naut’sa mawt Tribal Council nations: Tsleil-Waututh: North Vancouver Tsawwassen : Delta T’Sou-ke, Malahat and Halalt: South Island–Cowichan–Malahat Langford Stz’uminus and Snuneymuxw : Nanaimo–Ladysmith Snaw-naw-as: Courtenay–Port Alberni Homalco, Klahoose and Sliammon: North Island–Powell River
ROCK YOUR Voters Community Action, a group based in Cowichan territory, has recently been registering Aboriginal voters in a variety of community events throughout the south Island. On Facebook, search for Voters Community Action. Also check out the Facebook page for First Nations Rock the Vote.
www.elections.ca
Darren Blaney at work on the campaign trail
A STRONG VOICE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY
FRAN HUNT-JINNOUCHI GREEN PARTY CANDIDATE FOR COWICHAN–MALAHAT–LANGFORD
• She will work with First Nations to establish authentic nation-to-nation partnerships with Ottawa. • She opposes increased tanker traffic on the Salish Sea and will vote NO to Kinder Morgan’s Trans Mountain pipeline.
• She will work towards closing the gap, with goals to support health, education and cultural and language recovery on and off reserve. • She will be accountable, accessible and empowered to vote in the best interests of Cowichan– Malahat–Langford.
electfran.ca /FranHuntJinnouchi @FHJinnouchi
KNOW YOUR CANDIDATE • Call 1.855.653.0236 or email ElectFran@greenparty.ca • Visit the campaign office: 225 Canada Ave., Duncan BC
Authorized by the Official Agent for Fran Hunt-Jinnouchi
SALISH SEA SENTINEL 5
AROUND THE SALISH SEA
SUN SHINES ON DAYCARE YOUNG CHILDREN OF TSLEIL-WAUTUTH NATION ARE LEARNING THAT THE FUTURE CAN BE ECO-FRIENDLY
A
solar tracker made up of 40 solar panels was installed near the nation’s childcare centre and playground, powering 90 per cent of the building’s energy needs. Dale Komanchuk, director of public works, said: “We chose solar energy because it was the most feasible and it’s the second of its kind in Canada, with an on-board computerized tracker that follows the sun.”
WE BUILD AND REPAIR CANOES. WE CARVE TOTEM POLES, MASKS, PLAQUES FOR YOUR HOME, SCHOOL OR OFFICE. WE ARE A FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED BUSINESS LOCATED IN COWICHAN, BC. Find us on Facebook: Coast Salish Design Follow us on Twitter: @CSalishDtweets e-mail: coastsalish@yahoo.com or call us at 250-510-1644 cell: 250-510-8560
WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU. HUY CH Q’U - THANK YOU \O/ 6 SALISH SEA SENTINEL
AROUND THE SALISH SEA More than just an alternative energy source, the solar panels provide a powerful statement to the oil industry that threatens Burrard Inlet. “We installed this solar tracker outside of our daycare centre to remind our children daily that there are alternatives to oil,” said Carleen Thomas of the TWN Sacred Trust initiative. “We are walking the talk.” This is just one system used as the nation goes through a major building program.
Let your journey begin with us… Tour the calm and scenic waters of Indian Arm by canoe or kayak and experience the culture, tradition and history of the Tsleil-Waututh First Nation. Our 25 foot traditional style ocean-going canoes will safely take you on an unforgettable journey across our waters and back through time. While you explore the rich marine coastlines of Indian Arm, our experienced guides will share legends, songs, and stories that will help you to create memories that will last a lifetime! CANOE TOURS | KAYAK TOURS | RAINFOREST WALKING TOURS | SPAWNING SALMON TOURS | MULTI-DAY TOURS
604-904-7410 | takayatours.com SALISH SEA SENTINEL 7
AROUND THE SALISH SEA
POW-WOW ON THE COAST
SUMMER IS THE TIME TO POW-WOW ACROSS CANADA
Creating Value from Energy
T
Photos and story by Tricia Thomas he pow-wow circuit includes different nations where celebrations feature beautiful regalia, dancing, singing, the beating of huge drums, traditional foods, crafts and opportunities for socializing and sharing cultural pride. Although pow-wow culture began on the prairies, coastal BC First Nations have adopted the celebration because it is a healthy gathering that people of all ages and every ethnic background can enjoy. Many Coast Salish people have mixed heritage and want to embrace all the cultures in their history. And some West Coast artists incorporate their designs into pow-wow regalia. Cowichan Tribes hosted the Island Cuzzins pow-wow in Duncan in early August. The hundred who attended enjoyed great music, healthy food and visiting with friends and relations.
8 SALISH SEA SENTINEL
First Nations, working with Enerpro Systems, can now operate their own utility systems thanks to our intelligent, energy management system programs. With 100% infrastructure financing, nations can move toward ownership of all utilities on their lands while generating long-term revenue. Our full turnkey solutions can give your nation control over all utility rates on residential, commercial and industrial developments. At Enerpro Systems, we believe that technology is a tool enabled by knowledge and engaged by people. We lead the market in North America. Contact us to find out why.
Knowledge
Enerpro Systems Corp. 351 Bewicke Ave., North Vancouver, BC V7M 3E9
T: 604-982-9155 F: 604-982-9166 E: info@enerprosystems.com W: www.enerprosystems.com
•
Technology
•
Enerpro is a proud member of the Canada Green Building Council.
People
AROUND THE SALISH SEA
Quality & Excellence Vancouver Island’s finest full-service convention centre, just steps from Nanaimo Harbour.
1-866-430-6338 | www.viconference.com Flawless events start here.
SALISH SEA SENTINEL 9
SALISH SEA STARS
10 SALISH SEA SENTINEL
Over the past few months, Sentinel photographer/journalist Tricia Thomas has been traveling and reporting on events for stories that were in previous issues of the magazine. Here are some of the photos we weren’t able to use, due to lack of space. They are from visits to: the Orford River in Bute Inlet in Homalco territory; Newcastle Island provincial park in Snuneymuxw territory; and the Elders Gathering in Tsawout territory and Halalt hat day.
SALISH SEA SENTINEL 11
AROUND THE SALISH SEA
BUILDING ON GREEN AT TSLEIL-WAUTUH
T
sleil-Waututh Nation (TWN) may be a small community of only about 500 people, but they are great leaders when it comes to demonstrating how to ‘go green’ in community development. TWN is building a new eco-efficient administration and health centre to serve as a hub for the community’s many activi-
ties. Working in partnership with Syncra Construction, the nation has begun work on the centre that will be used for administration, health, education, governance, social services and economic functions. The building will also serve as a cultural centre for historical artifacts. Construction is underway using high environmental standards in the light-
ing as well as air circulation and watercooling systems. Back-up generators will allow the facility to be used as a refuge during emergency situations. The 25,000 square foot complex is expected to open in 2017. The nation’s leaders say it will be a model of the TWN philosophy and cultural heritage. More information: www.twnation.ca
FIRST NATIONS BOOKS Brought to you by David Ellis, Bookseller
HERITAGE & ARCHAEOLOGICAL SERVICES Ursus Heritage Consulting Ltd. is a BC archaeological consulting company with offices in Parksville, Vernon, Nelson and Vancouver. We specialize in a range of heritage and archaeological services. We conduct archaeological and anthropological fieldwork, laboratory, and community-based services related to archaeology, faunal and floral analysis, traditional use and knowledge studies, RISC training and curriculum development. We are committed to maintaining excellent relationships with our clients and to working in and towards sustainable human and environmental communities. VERNON: Ian Cameron, MSc, RPCA, (ian@ursus-heritage.ca; 250-938-4662) VANCOUVER ISLAND: Ginelle Taylor, BA, RPCA, (ginelle@ursus-heritage.ca; 250-626-7685) LOWER MAINLAND: Mykol Knighton, BA, RPCA, (mykol@ursus-heritage.ca; 604-230-5380)
12 SALISH SEA SENTINEL
S
it back, relax and let David bring his library to you. Whether you are planning to restock your Band library, or searching for a rare, out-of-print book, David Ellis would be delighted to bring his unique collection of books to your community. Amongst his vast collection is a stock of Coast Salish language, history, art, “proof of claims” documents and First Nations children’s books. David has been visiting Coast Salish communities for 24 years and more so in recent years as he helps communities and schools build their own libraries. He has worked closely with over 100 First Nations on a daily basis and can provide the vital information needed to cope with complex environmental and social issues. If you would like to lower administrative costs and make the best use of your staff time, let David do the legwork as he builds a library that is unique to your community. Contact David Ellis at davidellis@lightspeed.ca
The biggest reference library for Coast Salish culture.
AROUND THE SALISH SEA
MILLION$ ROLL IN FOR TWN WATER PROJECTS
T
sawwassen First Nation (TFN) was the recipient of major funding from Canada and BC for infrastructure projects as work continues on the nation’s developments. The federal government first announced $1.7 million to support construction of a drainage pump station at the 135-hectare industrial park adjacent to DeltaPort. About 1,300 jobs over the next three years are forecast at a complex named the Tsawwassen Gateway Logistics Centre. Even more money – $3.7 each from Canada and BC – will go toward upgrades to the regional watermain in order to ser-
Chief Williams at another key project - a sewage facility
vice the nation within Metro Vancouver. TFN, which signed the province’s first urban treaty in 2009, is the first nation in BC to sit at a regional board. Greater Vancouver Water District has already funded about $4.6 million while TFN will shoulder the rest of the $17.6 million project. When the drainage funding was announced, Chief Bryce
Williams said thanked Canada for supporting his nation’s dream. “TFN is investing over $100 million into the necessary servicing infrastructure to support our Land Use Plan, including sustainable development of commercial, residential, and industrial properties, as we build our revenue base to support a culturally, economically, and socially healthy community.
SALISH SEA SENTINEL 13
AROUND THE SALISH SEA
RECORD PINKS ON INDIAN RIVER
A
Record numbers of pink salmon (humpy) are returning to the Indian River this year. Tsleil-Waututh Nation (TWN) fisheries crews observed over two million pinks this week in mid-August. Low flows and high temperatures were a concern, as they were in other streams around the Salish Sea. But the 13 degree Celsius temperature was lower than in other systems. TWN formed a partnership with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in 2012 in an attempt to restore fish habitat and rebuild salmon populations. The restoration project was made possible this year by funding through DFO, Pacific Salmon Foundation, BC Hydro, Port Metro Vancouver and Fortis BC.
photo: Jordan Tieszen
A SACRED AREA
The Indian River watershed is a sacred area to TWN. It is located at the northern tip of Indian Arm, a fjord system that extends from Burrard Inlet in North Vancouver. The river flows into the salt waters of Indian Arm, creating one of the few remaining intact estuaries in the inlet and providing habitat to a range of species. Members of the TWN have utilized the Indian River watershed, since time out of mind and continue to use it today. As part of a yearly round of activity the watershed is harvested for renewable resources like salmon, deer, cedar, berries and medicinal plants.
working together for sustainable communities
Today, it is among the most heavily impacted areas in BC. Historic logging practices, hydro transmission line construction and industrial activities in Burrard Inlet have had major adverse effects on the environment. Based on the nature and extent of these impacts, the Indian River has been identified by the BC government as one of the top ten priority watersheds for restoration. The watershed is approximately 193 square kms and contains an estimated 750 kms of stream channels, many fish bearing. The Indian River flows 36 km from its headwaters to its outfall at the head of Indian Arm.
Aboriginal communities have always invested in planning for future generations. We partner with communities to understand collective vision and build sustainability. We offer: • Land use and community planning Burnaby office: 604-293-1411 • Climate change adaptation services www.summit-environmental.com • Facilitation and community engagement services www.ae.ca • Environmental consulting services • Infrastructure, buildings, transportation, water, wastewater, solid waste, and energy services
14 SALISH SEA SENTINEL
AROUND THE SALISH SEA
TUNE IN TO NATIVE RADIO
A
boriginal music, Coast Salish culture, languages and stories… that’s what will perk up your ears when you tune in to a program on the radio or on-line. The program comes from Radio Malaspina, a community station on CHLY 101.7 FM every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10 a.m. Called Si’em’ nu Ts’ lhhwulmuhw (My Honoured Fellow Native People), the show features co-hosts from three of our member nations. Snuneymuxw First Nation elder–in-residence Geraldine Manson, Natasha Bob of Snaw-naw-as (who is also a local school trustee) and Buffi David, a Stz’uminus educator, get together with host Kenny Brault three mornings a week. Other volunteers include
Garaldine Manson (Snuneymuxw) and Natasha Bob (Snaw-naw-as)
Devin Pielle of Tla-Amin and Lawrence Mitchell of Snaw-naw-as. “We want to have a positive influence by sharing our culture and worldview in a respectful way, and to have a First Nations voice in mainstream media,” said Natasha Bob. “It’s a tremendous opportunity for local artists to share their music. “At the same time, we work to be respectful to the originators of traditional songs and acknowledge the sacredness of what we share in accordance to our protocols.”
Creating a circle of prosperity together. Whether you are looking to finance a home, start a business or support your community, we can help. With a national team of Aboriginal banking specialists working together with eight First Nations branches, three First Nations agencies, two First Nations commercial banking centres and six North of 60 branches, you can trust us to provide the complete financial advice and resources you need to succeed and prosper.
Banking | Community | Employment | Procurement
Cynthia Blackstone
Commercial Account Manager, Vancouver Island 250-741-3506 cynthia.blackstone@rbc.com
Troy Myers
Commercial Account Manager, Lower Mainland 604-981-7845 troy.myers@rbc.com
urbansystems.ca
Visit us at rbcroyalbank.com/ aboriginal to learn more.
® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada.
30079 (09/2014)
SALISH SEA SENTINEL 15
AROUND THE SALISH SEA
T’SOU-KE LESSONS ON AFRICAN JOURNEY
E
lders from T’sou-ke First Nation played an important role in preparing Aboriginal youth for their year-long cultural exchange in Africa. The internship program, offered by the Victoria International Development Education Association (VIDEA), sponsored ten young people from 18–35 to travel to either Uganda or Zambia, to work in agriculture, carpentry, crafting and sports or to work with children.
Denise George gave a tour of Ladybug Nursery
On their return, they will share what they learned about other Indigenous cultures with communities across Canada. Allyn Armitage-Point from Hesquiaht and Sts’ailes nations, who is going to Uganda, had this to say about the training: “I have been learning a lot about Africa and its history through the predeparture sessions.
Experience the learning... OWN the knowledge!
We help STUDENTS identify their natural strengths and achieve their desired goals and COMMUNITIES build their internal capacities. Training provided for community members and leaders. � Band office management
� � � � �
Strategic planning & governance Risk, policy and procedure management Self-Empowerment Office Administration Hospitality
Com-Tech Learning Solutions Inc. T 604.899-2400 | www.com-techsolutions.com
customized comprehensive com-tech 16 SALISH SEA SENTINEL
“The T’sou-ke elders have helped me personally to deal with stress and become more connected to my spirituality by looking at ‘angel’ cards and leading me through guidance Allyn Armitage-Point sessions.” More information: www.videa.ca.
Helping our First Nation Friends with their Leadership in Being Stewards of our Environment.
Brian Chatwin started Chatwin Engineering over 30 years ago to provide services to First Nations and has become a trusted partner in over 50 Communities.
1-250-753-9171
www.chatwinengineering.com bchatwin@chatwinengineering.com
AROUND THE SALISH SEA
HERONS+EAGLES = COMMUNITY
N
ature can sometimes be cruel, but it can also surprise. That was revealed in a story about a Great Blue heron rookery in Tsawwassen First Nation territory on the shoreline overlooking BC Ferries. Writing in the Vancouver Sun in July, reporter Larry Pynn shared the observations of scientist and ornithologist Rob Butler, who saw two eagles who set up a ‘protection ring’ around a heron colony that kept other eagles away. That created a feeling of safety for the herons, drawing others to begin nesting under their protectors’ watchful eyes.
If you’ve ever witnessed the massacre of young herons by eagles, you’ll never forget it. Screeching, flailing, pterodactyllike adults have no defense against the raiding raptors. With speed, maneuverability and voracious drive, a few eagles can decimate all the young from a colony of nests in a matter of hours. But thanks to two eagles, one of the largest established heron colonies in BC is a safer place. Almost 400 pairs of nesting herons make their home on the bluff overlooking the Salish Sea. Let’s hope the friendship lasts.
SALISH SEA SENTINEL 17
OUR TRADITIONAL FOODS
TRADITIONAL FOODS CELEBRATED THE EIGHTH ANNUAL TRADITIONAL FOODS CONFERENCE WILL BE HOSTED BY KWAKIUTL FIRST NATION IN FORT RUPERT ON OCTOBER 2-3.
S
almon, halibut and other delicacies are already being gathered for the event that will be held in the two main Kwakiutl village sites near Port Hardy. Both are rich in cultural history and food resources and include sacred sites, clam beaches, root gardens, stone fish-traps, petroglyphs and culturally modified trees, as well as plant and medicine gathering sites. The event will focus on hands-on learning, sharing of Kwakiutl initiatives and highlighting key projects from other nations on the Island. There is no cost for conference registration because organizers do not want any barriers for those wanting to attend. But organizations or individuals that can afford it are asked to pay a fee. More information from conference coordinator Norine Messer at 250-735-4111 or norinemesser@hotmail.com.
Explore Desolation Sound and beyond...
Cultural Canoe and Kayak Tours • Zodiac Tours Traditional Cedar Weaving Workshops 5245 Highway 101, Sliammon Tla’Amin Convenience Store home of Sli-City Grill First Nations owned and operated www.ihostours.com 604.483.1308 • info@ihostours.com 18 SALISH SEA SENTINEL
AROUND THE SALISH SEA
FALLING LEAVES, HARVESTING FOOD by Tricia Thomas
S
eptember is always a busy month as we gather food for the winter. Salmon are coming home and the smokehouses are filling up. But fall came early this year. Elders say that when the white flowers on the ironwood (ocean spray) turns brown, then the deer are fat. This summer was so hot that the earth dried up and the leaves began turning brown in early August. Salmon were having a hard time coming home to spawn in rivers and creeks that had little water. Both First Nations and commercial fisherman are reporting fewer sockeye this year. They say that the hot weather forced salmon to go deep and wait until the water gets colder before making their way to the rivers.
Naut’sa mawt
TRIBAL COUNCIL
OFFICE MOVE As of August 1, the new office address is: 330-6165 Highway 17A, Delta, BC V4K 5B8 while the phone number remains the same at 604-943-6712. The NmTC head office remains at Halalt First Nation at 8017 Chemainus Road, Chemainus, BC V0R 1K5 with the phone number 250-324-1800. The toll free phone number for both offices remains: 1-888-382-7711.
There was also a bigger threat to traditional diets this summer. The most massive red tides in history were measured with the dangerous algae blooms spread up to 64 kms wide and 200 metres deep from Alaska to California. Lasting up to two years in butter clams, the paralytic shellfish toxin has been known to kill sea otters, seals, fish and even whales. People need to be very careful and avoid eating shellfish (crabs, mussels, clams, etc.) and even small fish that were harvested along the coast in August. Cooking or freezing does not destroy paralytic shellfish toxin. The poison can cause damage to the nerves and brain, and is especially lethal to young children. For more informaiton visit: www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
Experience the tastes people are raving about…
Don’t panic, we got bannock! From Elk Burgers to the most talked about wings in town, we got it all. CATERING NOW AVAILABLE
SLI CITY GRILL Tla’amin Convenience Store YO UR L O CAL G RO CE RY M ARK E T 5245 Lund Highway, Powell River BC V8A 0B4 Monday to Saturday 6:30 am to 10:30 pm Sunday 7 am to 9:30 pm
SALISH SEA SENTINEL 19
SALISH SEA CALENDAR THIS IS P’UQ’ULENUXW (SEPTEMBER) THE TIME WHEN THE LEAVES TURN COLOUR
SEPT
2015
OCT
P’UQ’ULENUXW
2015
2-4
12-14
Tsawwassen First Nation’s fourth members gathering to learn about upcoming initiatives, provide feedback to staff and elected officials, and visit with family and friends, River Rock Casino, Richmond.
Pacific Asia Indigenous Tourism and Trade conference, Vancouver, BC. www.paitc2015.com
23-25
BC Aboriginal Funding conference, Victoria funding-conference. www.bcaafc.com
2-4
Vancouver Island Traditional Foods conference, Fort Rupert. www.indigenousfoodsvi.ca
24-25
Chief Negotiators meeting, Tsleil-Waututh Nation recreation.
6-8
Xyntax Summit, users from across Canada meet in Banff. You’ll explore the latest tools and see how other First Nations are using their Xyntax systems, to support, and manage, their economic development initiatives. www.xyntax.ca
30
Naut’sa mawt Tribal Council board meeting at Homalco First Nation.
nmtcevents.com
Tanya Tagaq
NOV
HWISULENUXW
16
Malahat Nation Champions gala – Nation building takes a community of champions, with special guests singer Tanya Tagaq and actress Roseanne Supernault, Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Hotel.
2015
TTH’AL’XWUMUTSUN
2
General election for chief at councillors, Malahat First Nation.
2-4
Comprehensive community planning (CCP) Workshop, hosted by Squamish and Lil’wat Nations and Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, Whistler.
16-18
Joint Gathering 2015 hosted by the First Nations Leadership Council and Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, Pinnacle Harbour Front Hotel, Vancouver. DEC
2015
SHTS’ULWE’SUM
2 The annual general meeting of Naut’sa mawt Tribal Council will be held in Snuneymuxw territory with the venue in Nanaimo to be selected soon.
Naut’sa mawt
TRIBAL COUNCIL
1-888-382-7711
NEW!
Naut’sa mawt shipping@nautsamawt.com Tribal Council now offering preferred shipping rates. The Naut’sa mawt Tribal Council has partnered with Overland West Freight Lines and Comox Pacific Express to provide CONNECTING WESTERN CANADA reliable shipping services at preferred rates! Overland West Freight Lines is an industry leader in regional LTL (less than truckload) service. Our Need something shipped? Please contact strategically located terminals, transportation Naut’sa mawt Tribal Council first so we can professionals, and leading edge IT services ensure that we have the capability and expertise to meet and exceed help you with your shipping needs. your distribution needs. www.overlandwest.ca
CALL US FIRST! 20 SALISH SEA SENTINEL
CONNECTING VANCOUVER ISLAND For more than 35 years Comox Pacific Express has delivered reliable and innovative transportation services, and has become Vancouver Island's premier expedite service provider. We live in the communities we service. Comox is the first choice on the island for quality LTL transportation service solutions. www.comoxpacific.com
FAST, DEPENDABLE TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS
Coast Salish Insurance and Risk Management Solutions Inc. Are you getting all you deserve and worked for? Are all your government benefits coming to you? Let Coast Salish Insurance and Risk Management Solutions Inc. work for you! No obligation…no fees.
Check it out! 250 246 5275 cpegg@telus.net
PRIVATE HOME INSURANCE • CONTENTS INSURANCE • COMMUNITY RISK ASSESSMENT • EMPLOYEE BENEFIT AND PENSION SERVICES
Integrated Data Management
Systems for First Nations • Band Membership & Community Database
• Financial Management Tools
• Community & Human Resource Management
• Housing & Asset Management
• Post-Secondary Education
• DoculinX™ - Electronic Filing Cabinet
• Patient Travel, and many more ...
Contact us today! 1-866-699-6829 info@xyntax.com www.xyntax.ca
One Solution. One System.
Xyntax (pronounced Zin-tax) is an Aboriginal-owned, Canadian software system that is tailored to serve the needs of First Nations. For more than 30 years, Xyntax has provided an integrated suite of easy-to-use financial and administrative management tools, exclusively for First Nations. Xyntax software is not only robust, secure and affordable, it provides high levels of personalized support to its customers. Please contact Xyntax for a demonstration of how it can provide the solutions you require for your organization.
Canada’s Premier First Nation Data Management Software