TSINIKSSINI February 2017
February 2017
Published by Blood Tribe Administration COMMUNICATIONS Department The Blood Tribe Administration Review entitled ‘TSINIKSSINI’ is dedicated to the sharing of information for the people of the Blood Tribe. The magazine format features news, stories, articles and an array of items as our way of sharing what is occurring on the Blood reserve and beyond. We hope you enjoy your magazine and invite any suggestions you may have in improving our coverage on any number of events and activities. The magazine will be printed on a monthly basis and will be distributed to various locations on-and-off the reserve. The magazine is free of charge. The magazine is published by the Blood Tribe Communications department and is printed by Graphcom Printers (2011) of Lethbridge. The collection of information, photographs and layout of the magazine is from the Blood Tribe Communications department. Reproduction of any story or use of photographs must be requested in writing and addressed to the Blood Tribe Communications department. Any unauthorized use of stories and photos of TSINIKSSINI or from the Blood Tribe Communications department may infringe on tribal copyright laws. We would like to acknowledge the Blood Tribe Chief & Council and the people of the Blood Tribe for your support. Rick Tailfeathers: Tom Russell: Myron Fox: Tracy Weasel Fat Brent Scout Mason Wolf Child
Communications Director Communications Writer Layout Graphic Design Photos/Stories Photos/Stories Photos
in this issue BLOOD TRIBE COMMUNICATIONS What can we offer to you? The Kainai Nation is proud of our leadership, employees of the various departments and entities, and mostly, proud of the many accomplishments and contributions of or people. We can respectfully boast of our achievements, but many, for the most part, remain humble and modest. This is where a team of writers and technicians involved in the media step in. For a number of years, the Blood Tribe Communications department and other media outlets such as the Kainai News has witnessed the growth and development of the Blood Tribe from the sharing of such stories including the taming of the great bucking horse Cyclone by the legendary Tom Three Persons at the famed Calgary Stampede to Broadway in New York City where a group of students from within the Kainai Board of Education school system shared their play “Strike Them Hard” (the Baker Massacre play) to enthralled audiences. We have covered much more from the paving of the loop road to the construction of the multipurpose facility to the opening of the tribe’s own Kainai Marketplace. The story ideas, events and activities shared by our people are endless. We encourage you for your support in sharing your story ideas and events and activities to feature in your magazine TSINIKSINNI. For those stories and activities that may not make it to the magazine, we have the option of featuring them on your website -- BLOODTRIBE.ORG. If you have any information that requires immediate reach to your intended audiences, we can provide the means to access the sharing of your information much quicker and faster. We look forward to meeting the sharing of information with you and again, encourage you to visit our website or to read the information within your magazine in keeping informed on all current or past events. The management and staff of the Blood Tribe Communications look toward serving the best interests of the proud Kainai Nation and our people.
cover photo Published by the authority of Blood Tribe Chief & Council Box 60 Standoff, AB T0L 1Y0 ph: (403) 737-3753 FAX: (403) 737-2785 visit our website for more... www.bloodtribe.org
INFR world champions Cammie Fox and Cam Bruised Head share their talents, experiences and encouragement with the staff and students of the Kainai Middle School. Both athletes are Blood Tribe members and proudly represent their people in rodeos across North America. Front page photo: Tracy Weasel Fat
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Documentary: State of Emergency
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
The Blood Tribe’s Battle Against Fentanyl Too many people have died from fentanyl. Too many people will die. It grips souls and rips at the hearts of those suffering its devastating effects. “It hurts,” says fentanyl survivor Titus Crying Head. “Fentanyl takes over your every thought. You feel like there’s no way out. But there’s always hope. You just have to find it in you.” Crying Head is one of several survivors featured in a new documentary being produced by the Blood Tribe to create awareness on the expanding crisis. Written, directed and produced by Brent Scout (Stoneboy Media) - in association with Nicole Robertson (Muskwa Productions) - the documentary highlights the state of emergency declared by the Blood Tribe and focuses on awareness, strategies and above-all, hope and encouragement. That is the message of this raw documentary that features leadership, law enforcement, medical staff, elder teachings and survivors sharing their stories: from despair to healing. The video takes an in-depth look at a community faced with various socioeconomic problems borne of colonization, Indian residential school, intergenerational trauma, addictions and the grim and growing numbers of over doses and death from opioids. To date, a disproportionate number of Blood Tribe members have succumbed to deadly opioids (there was a total of 343 deaths from fentanyl in Alberta last year). The statistics are alarming. Kainai declared a state of emergency in 2015. Since then, the Tribe has become a model for other First Nations and communities searching for answers. It was the first community in the province to sound the alarm, and it was the first to respond. That is why this documentary – and social media campaign – is important: To create a resource for understanding and healing from our Worldview. “It hit us by surprise. It’s affecting everyone here. It even hit very close to home for me,” says former Blood Tribe chief, Charles Weasel Head, who spearheaded the project with Health Canada and Kainai. “We started hearing about fentanyl back in 2014, and as Chief back then, my Council became
very involved in learning what this deadly drug was doing to our people and what we needed to do to fight the epidemic. We had to do something. We and brought in elders, leadership and many agencies to create a core committee. We are overwhelmed. But we won’t give up.” Blood Tribe Health, police and tribal authorities spoke with filmmakers about strategies against deadly opioids, including W18 and carfentanyl. Despite limited resources, the Tribe is dedicated to ensuring greater co-operation, more information sharing and a better understanding of what is and what is not working. What is working is Suboxone, a drug similar to methadone that eliminates cravings, and allows users to begin their healing journey to recovery. Two Blood Tribe doctors are now prescribing Suboxone to over 200 band members. “It’s an incredible gift from the universe,” says Dr. Sue Christensen of the Laverne Clinic. “We experienced many challenges trying to introduce Suboxone, but it’s being widely used now on those who want to change. I think all doctors should be mandated to get licensed to administer Suboxone.” The Blood Tribe also began providing users with the life-saving antidote naloxone and the number of overdoses has declined through awareness and training (Alberta recently announced that it will make
antidote kits available to the general public, without prescriptions). Dr. Esther Tailfeathers is heavily involved in the crisis response and calls for a renewed strategy for the youth. She says, “We need to build relationships and holistic, strength based approaches that focuses on harm reduction.” Tailfeathers laments about children coping with the loss and trauma that overdose brings, and those orphaned by fentanyl. “We must focus on them and deal with fentanyl users that are increasingly young, of teenagers attempting suicide because they feel hopeless from their addiction.” Crying Head says, “I really didn’t know what I was taking until it was too late. It’s everywhere, on every corner. It took over my life. When you’re sick you will do anything to get un-sick. But I did some research and realized, I don’t want to do this anymore. It took me a while but Suboxone saved me. Now I can concentrate on what’s important -- my family. And I try to help others, and encourage them to look deep inside, because we all have it in us to change.” The documentary – and social media campaign – is set for release in March 2017.
Kainai Chief Roy Fox, seen here, is interviewed by Brent Scout in a documentary focusing on the deadly illegal and illicit drug epidemic.
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Story by Brent Scout
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
FLASH MOB at Blood Tribe Administration
Highlights Disgust for Illicit Drug Usage “I work for the communities,” was a statement that echoed throughout the foyer of the Blood Tribe Administration from a local advocate who says she will work tirelessly in advocating for a reserve which will one day be free from the illegal and illicit drugs that are killing our people. And free from the drug dealers who place the value of money over the lives and wellbeing of our people.
“If you guys want me to do something, to organize anything, I can be there to help in any way I can,” she said. “I hate drugs. I’ve been clean for seven years and now, the community is my boss. What the community wants me to do, I’ll do it for them.” With many people listening, Little Bear shared deep concerns about the dangers of Oxy 80’s and two other drugs even more deadly called Carfentanil and W-18. The Blood Tribe Prescription Drug Project issued an alert warning people of how deadly and potent these drugs are. These drugs are killing drug users who may not be aware of how powerful illegal and illicit drugs are and in many cases, death comes quick.
Kyla Crow, councilor, said the Chief & Council have a BCR prepared to ban a drug dealer from the reserve. “I’m really proud of everyone’s effort in saving lives,” she said. “We (Chief & Council) are signing a BCR to ban an individual off our reserve on the recent drug bust that just happened.” Blood Tribe member of council, Marcel Weasel Head informed the people leadership will no longer tolerate drug
dealers. “We want our community, we want our tribe back,” he said. “Every one has to help. Those who are harboring people, these are issues that we (Chief & Council) are dealing with as well. Let’s get our future back.” A local drug group lead by Cameron Chief Calf sang the round dance songs while Travis Plaited Hair was the emcee for the event.
Many of the supporters, including children, are aware of the drug crisis.
“You can die from them,” shouted Little Bear in trying to reach out to the community members. “I’m tired, everyone’s tired of death. I’m sick and tired of drug dealers. They need to leave our people alone. We don’t want anyone else to die. We love our people and don’t they understand what they put us through. Please, people, I’m here for you. I work for you. I want to help.” Carfentanil, not made for humans, is 10,000 times more toxic (poisonous) than morphine and W-18 is roughly 1000 times more toxic than morphine. These two drugs, including Oxy 80s, have caused death and overdoses and are creating hurt and pain for the children and the non-users who are living with these addicts. Little Bear mentioned addicts are breaking into houses, stealing items and selling them to support their habits.
Tribal leadership and front-line workers are among those pushing for drug free communities.
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Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
SUBOXONE TREATMENT Available For Those Seeking to Regain CONTROL OF THEIR LIVES
Hassan Naqvi, addictions counselor, Cardston Clinic, is prepared to meet with people who require information on drug dependency.
Despite the public outcry to rid the reserve of drug dealers and from the deadly and illicit drugs including Oxy 80os, Fentanyl, Carfentanil and W-18s, to name a few, there is help available for those addicted to these harmful drugs who wants to once again live a healthy, clean lifestyle. Hassan Naqvi, an Addictions Counselor at the Cardston Clinic, is one of the people they will meet who want to quit their drug dependency.
patients, even though the clinic is open.
He explains the process of what a drug user should do when they want to begin the steps of walking away from the illegal drug usage.
Naqvi says the initial treatment begins at the clinic and as the patient stabilizes on their particular dosage, then their prescription is sent to the pharmacy of their choice where they will go to get their treatment on a daily basis.
“You call 403.653.5283 to book an appointment at the Cardston Clinic,” he says. “If you are going through difficult times with opioids dependence, you call us and we start by taking you into our treatment program”. Then we do an intake and begin the Suboxone treatments.” Naqvi notes that people seeking treatment must begin the process on the Tuesday or Wednesday of each week as they will not begin the treatments on Fridays for new
“If the intake is done on Tuesday or Wednesday, we will put you on Suboxone right away. But, if you come on Friday, we cannot start you on Suboxone but can start new intake because, the weekend comes, and you are supposed to be at the clinic for at least two days for the dose initiation. These are the first steps.”
“You put the pill under the tongue instead of swallowing it,” he says, but adds that consistency in taking the dosage is important. “If the patient misses the clinic appointment, or misses three consecutive doses, they are discharged from the program. These are a few of the rules.” For those patients who have been on the Suboxone program, they can share their strengths with the doctor. 5
“Once the patient is stabilized on Suboxone dosage, and the patient says, “I’m getting better, I do not have cravings, urges,” then the doctor suggests the patient to see the addictions counsellor. Then I come into the picture,” he explains. “We start talking about the support I can provide and what I can do for the patient.” Naqvi says it is of great help when people can share what the Suboxone Program can do. “At least touch base with us. Even though some may not be ready for the program, let us see if we can convince them,” he says as he reaches out and offers to share his knowledge with the people. “If you ask me to come and give a talk, I can be available to do that.” Anyone wanting to begin treatment with the Suboxone Program or to request an information sharing meeting with Mr. Naqvi, can contact the Cardston Clinic at 403.653.5283. Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
Descendents of HOLY BEAR WOMAN Gather to Keep Her Memory ALIVE According to stories passed from generation to generation, Holy Bear Woman, who was four-years-old at the time of the massacre, was hidden from the soldiers as they brutally attacked and slaughtered innocent men, women, children and the elderly. The attack came at a time when many of the warriors and protectors of the camp were away, hunting for food.
Blood elder Wilton Goodstriker, a descendant of Holy Bear Woman, shares his history.
The spirit of Holy Bear Woman, the fouryear-old child who was one of four who survived the brutal and horrific slaughter of innocent children, women and elderly, by a cavalry of soldiers lead by Major Eugene M. Baker was commemorated at the Kainai Multipurpose building on January 23, 2017, in what is known now as the Baker Massacre. Blood elder Wilton Goodstriker was called upon to share a prayer and his thoughts on the events leading to the commemoration. “We should never forget this event. Although it was a sad part of our history, it also gave us some good lessons. If we continue to teach our children prayer, and getting to know who their relatives are, that’s really important, part of the lesson of this story,” he said. “If Holy Bear Woman didn’t know who her relatives were, there is no way she could’ve found her way back to Fort Benton to reconnect with her relatives.”
and ancestors and of the need to understand who we are. “Thank you for inviting us (leadership) to the commemoration,” he said. “I’m proud of our ancestors and the work to ensure our children are made aware of the bravery of our ancestors.” Ramona Big Head, who was instrumental in the play ‘The Baker Massacre,’ began the session by reading a research overview.
Apparently, Major Eugene Baker, an alcoholic, was ordered by his supervisor to leave the Heavy Runner camp alone as they were considered peaceful. Baker paid no heed and proceeded with the slaughter. The Baker Massacre occurred in 1870 in which General Philip Sheridan ordered Major Eugene Baker of the Second US Regiment to “strike them hard” after a series of events in which a white man, who was part of a group who beat up a Blackfoot man for stealing horses, and who was later killed by Blackfoot warriors, instigated the massacre. Major Baker and
Goodstriker added: “In our community, we’ve never lost our way of life,” he said. “We’ve never had to go to other tribes to teach us who we are; we’re still complete. We still have our clans, we know our relatives, our societies, our social systems are still in place and it’s up to us as grandparents and parents to continue to teach our children and to reinforce who they are and how important spirituality is.” Chief Roy Fox acknowledged the deep history and respect for our elders, relatives
Blackfeet elder Joe Kipp and spouse Kathy want people to remember our past and to embrace our future.
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TSINIKSSINI February 2017
Other speakers included Charlie Blood, Mike Dan and Sylvia Low Horn. The commemoration was dedicated to the late Narcisse Blood for his encouragement and dedication in keeping Holy Bear Woman’s memory alive. Lester Low Horn sang one of the early songs from Mountain Chief, a leader during Holy Bear Woman’s time and a drum group made up of students from the Saipoyi school sang the flag song. A dance troupe comprised of Saipoyi school students, under the guidance of teacher Ruby Medicine Crane, performed traditional dances for the audience, and the emcees for the commemoration were Byron Bruised Head and Genevieve Bruised Head.
Young drummers comprised of Blood students perform for the audience at the commemoration.
the Second US Regiment slaughtered over 214 innocent Blackfoot men, women and children and took over 140 people hostage. No official investigation by the United States government ever reprimanded Baker for his role in the massacre. Blackfeet descendant Joe Kipp and his wife Kathy told stories of the Blackfoot history. “My dad would sit on his grandfather Bear Head’s lap and he would always talk to him about who we are, where we come from,” he said. “My father would tell me: First of all, we are Small Robes, then we are Piikani, then we belong to the Blackfoot people. Our children need to hear these stories. I have so much respect for the name Holy Bear Woman, because I watched my own father cry when he told stories about this. We need to share these stories and we need to learn. We need to remember.”
Jordan Head, a relative of Holy Bear Woman, shared his stories of his greatgrandmother’s journey. “When I first heard the stories and the impact it had on me, I felt angry at what happened to my ancestor,” he said. “Today, I still see how the government is treating us. The government uses words against us like, if you look at what happened to our greatgrandmother and others, the government called it a victory, we call it a massacre.” Pictograph of Baker Massacre.
Kathy Kipp added: “We are okay, despite all the generational trauma we have suffered as a people. Let us remember the past and embrace the future as survivors -iika’kimaat.” Blood elder and former member of council Mike Bruised Head sang an honor song and also shared his lineage as a descendant of Holy Bear woman. Gilbert Eagle Bear, Blood elder, shared his story with the people of the stories he heard of his great-grandmother Holy Bear Woman. “There are many of us who are related and these are the stories we share to help us understand our relatives.”
Students and community members listen intently at stories of Holy Bear Woman.
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Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
The Kainai Middle School Host Champions
Who Continue to Promote Sport of Rodeo
Group photo of world champions with Kainai Middle School staff, students and supporters who listened to words of encouragement.
The day’s event started with opening remarks by Tatsikiisaapo’p Middle School Principal Ramona Big Head, followed by a prayer and a smudge by Tatsikiisaapo’p Middle School Council Clarence Black Water Jr. Students, visitors and staff filled the Tipi room to listen to keynote speakers, 2016 INFR Bareback Champion Cam Bruised Head, and Cammie Fox, INFR ladies break-away champion. Their championship saddles, trophies and buckles were predominantly displayed in the centre of the room. Rodeo has always been a big part of fourtime INFR champion Cam Bruised Head’s life. He has been in involved in rodeo since he was 10 years old. He acknowledged the rich history of rodeo and of his aspirations to compete as a cowboy in this entertaining sport. “Rodeo has always been a dream of mine. I made a lot of goals and have been trying to accomplish them,” said Bruised Head, whose blood runs deep in the sport as his father Bill T. Head is two-time champion. “I just want to encourage all of you here to keep striving at your goals, your dreams
and anything can happen. If you believe, and try hard enough, these dreams and goals can come true,” said Bruised Head, who won the first Tatsikiisaapo’p Middle School Bull-A-Rama back in 2013. Cammi Fox is the ladies break-away champion and is also a decorated rodeo champion with saddles, buckles and a horse trailer. Fox is proud mostly of the saddle she won in her hometown at the Kainai Fair & Rodeo. Her inspiration and drive to succeed in rodeo is credited to her mother. “It takes a lot of sacrifice to get to where I am right now,” she said. “There were times when I was younger and my friends were doing other things and I wanted to go join them, but my mom would say that you got to sacrifice if you really want something. You’ve got to try hard.” Fox’s goal this year is to qualify for the 2017 INFR and win the all-around title in the barrel racing and team roping events. Being raised in a ranching family contributed to her horsemanship; her grandfather, Kelvin Fox, is one of the first INFR bull riding world champions. She also encouraged the students to make goals 8
and to pursue their dreams. Other guest speakers included: Danny McDougall, Al Lively, Bare Back Champion Matt Lait, Tyson Wagner, twotime INFR bareback champion Bill T Head and Byron Bruised Head, principal, Kainai Alternate Academy. At end of the presentation, Lydia Mistaken Chief provided each speaker with a beaded medallion. Both Bruised Head and Fox gave video presentations to students who were interested in rodeo.
Story by Tracy Weasel Fat
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
Bull A Rama
TATSIKIISAAPO’P MIDDLE SCHOOL’S ANNUAL BULL-A-RAMA CONTINUES TO BRING ENTERTAINMENT TO BENEFIT STUDENTS The bulls provided by the stock contractors proved their worth as they added much to the excitement during the rodeo.
The Bull-A-Rama began with an opening prayer by Blood elder Mike Bruised Head, followed by an introduction of the bull riders, junior bull riders and calf riders. Myria Mistaken Chief sang both the Star Spangled Banner and O’ Canada and Mike Bruised Head sang the Flag Song. Opening remarks to begin the event were from Ramona Big Head, Byron Bruised Head and Danny McDougall. The next few hours were filled with tremendous bull rides by extremely courageous bull riders. Tyson Wagner provided the entertainment for the event and the rodeo announcer was Blood Councillor Floyd Big Head. All the people involved in bringing this rodeo provided a very entertaining rodeo and gave the audience an enjoyable and memorable experience. The bulls were fierce and bucked off nearly all the cowboys. One of the memorable moments for the crowd was a kiss cam on the LED display screen that showed Blood Tribe community members kissing their loved ones and significant others. 100 per cent of the proceeds of the Bull-
A-Rama go to towards Tatsikiisaapo’p Middle School and Kainai Alternate Academy fieldtrips and activities. Winners Bull Riding Calf Riding: Lane Conley Jr. Bull Riding: Clinton Taylor Sr. Bull Riding: K’s Thompson Tatsikiisaapo’p Middle School and Kainai Alternate Academy would like to thank community members and the many individuals who worked tirelessly, dayand-night, to make this an entertaining event. Without their support, none of this would be possible. Sponsors Kainai Board of Education Ben & Donna Walter Farms LTD. Floyd & Maxine Big Head Promotions Lowe’s Ranch Eldorado R.V. Doug Sports Pete Standing Alone Chad Besplug Mckenzie Stringham Franklyn White Quills Blood Tribe Economics Development Born to Buck Rodeo Club 9
Blood Tribe Agriculture Project Red Crow Community College Chief Roy Fox Kirby Many Fingers Kainai Healing Lodge Blood Tribe Police Crime Prevention Blood Tribe Police School Resource Officer Bryce Iron Shirt JoAnn Lemieux Pet Provost Tyrone Potts Jr. Danny McDougall Dan Lively Travis Plaited Hair Winston Bruised Head Bill Creighton Matt Laitt Tyson Wagner Cammie Fox Cam Bruised Head Mike Day Chief Stock Contractors: McDougall Bucking Bulls Big Chief Bucking Bulls Dynamite Buckers
Story by Tracy Weasel Fat
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
New Rubberized Flooring at Multipurpose Installed to IMPROVE ON SAFETY AND FITNESS The installation of the rubberized flooring over the running and walking track on the second level at the Kainai Multipurpose building was completed on February 2, 2017, and is now open to the public once again. The rubberized flooring was necessary in part to offer more safety to the runners utilizing the track and for reducing health concerns such as shin splints. Brad Healy, Multipurpose Building Supervisor, says the new flooring is a benefit for those who use the track to keep themselves fit. “The new flooring is giving the people more comfort and they can exercise for longer periods of time,” he explains. “Since the installation, we have hade a major increase in the number of people coming out to walk or run on the new floor.”
Prior to the installation of the rubberized flooring, runners and walkers were feeling the affects of running and exercising on the concrete floor. Healy said though the cost of the flooring was high, it is worth spending funds that have safety and health in mind. “We need more upgrades like this for our community members to become healthy,” he says. “We will be continuing to upgrade our buildings and equipment to provide more services to our people.” Anyone wanting to utilize the track and other fitness equipment are encouraged to contact the Recreation department at 403.737.3868.
The newly installed floor ready for use.
PINK SHIRT DAY A TIME FOR COMMUNITY TO RESPECT EACH OTHER’S DIFFERENCES
Chancey Black Water speaking to children in recognizing and stopping bullying.
The annual Pink Shirt Day at the Kainai Multipurpose facility on Friday, February 17, 2017, brought together the students and teachers of the Saipoyi school, family members, elders and the supporting local
agencies to recognize and instill respect for people’s lives and the choices they choose to live with. Chancey Black Water, crime prevention coordinator, who collaborated with the Family Resource Centre, was in 10
the forefront in sharing the theme of the event entitled “Bullying Stops Here.” “The whole purpose of this day is to bring awareness to breaking down the stereotypes and barriers related to bullying,” she said. “We need to begin with the young, our children, to show us how to become good people, to teach the adults how to be tolerant. Hopefully, that will begin the process to stop bullying and to grasp acceptance of others in our lives.” This year, the Pink Shirt Day was to be celebrated nationally on February 22, was early due to reading week when the children are not in school. Black Water acknowledged the Family Resource Centre, the teachers, staff, the Blood Tribe Police, parents and community members and the children for making the event fun and informative.
Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
SOUP Promotes Business Project to Tribe in Meeting Many DELIVERY REQUIREMENTS
Rick Soup, owner of Red Zone Supply Chain Services, prepares to begin service of picking up and delivering suppliers for local businesses and departments.
Saving tribal departments and entities time and money, and reducing liabilities related to the possibilities of potential injury while picking up supplies, is an idea one entrepreneur is putting into action with his business – REd Zone Supply Chain Services. Rick Soup, a former longtime employee with Kainai Corrections, is offering his business to the tribe as a way of streamlining orders for office supplies and related employment delivery needs as a single source outlet to promote efficiency, cost-saving and safety measures. “What my business is about is delivering supplies to all the departments and entities of the Blood Tribe,” he said. “Some of these items might be smaller things like tools, office equipment, plumbing hardware, construction materials, cleaning and janitorial, repair and maintenance items and other supplies they may need. My business will help save on delivery costs.” In reaching out to the leaders, managers and directors of each entity and department,
Soup pointed out how his business would help out in areas related to efficiency, productivity and safety. “There are many staff members who are sent every day to get these supplies and it’s costing these departments a fair amount of time in man-hours, gas costs, capital and maintenance costs, insurance and mileage,” he said. “So what my business will do is to save these departments costs related to the pick up and delivery of these supplies. For instance, rather than ten people going in all at once, one service can do much of this. Money saved can then be diverted to other important budget needs.” The transport vehicle Soup has purchased is commercially insured and has the safety of the employees in mind. “There are potentially liability issues involved like, for instance, if the employees are injured while picking up these supplies,” he mentioned. “I want to reduce or eliminate these from happening.” Soup recently completed an aboriginal business management course at UBC and 11
believes small business opportunities need to be pursued and supported on the reserve. He wonders just how many outside service delivery companies are delivering and picking up supplies and what the costs are for each of the departments and entities. He said his business should make more efficient the delivery service once he is fully established. “This is a one-stop service that will help create employment here as we develop and grow. And once we get to know the times of when each department orders supplies, we can be counted on to pick up and have these supplies delivered in a timely manner,” he said. “We can also be available for custom delivery services as well.” The service is based on calls and as each department and entity utilizes this business, then more money can be saved. Soup hopes to expand as the demands for his business is felt on the reserve and beyond. His e-mail address is www.redzonedeliveries@gmail. com and is looking forward to offering his services to tribal businesses, departments and entities. Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
Lethbridge College Honoring 2017 Excellence Award Recipients Announced WEASEL HEAD AMONG THOSE RECOGNIZED
Weasel Head, pictured here with Kainai Lady Warriors, has grown from athlete to administrator. His recognition is well-deserved.
Jan. 23, 2017 – As Lethbridge College celebrates its 60th anniversary, around 33,000 alumni are making a difference in industries all across the world. Three of those alumni have been chosen as award recipients for the 25th annual Honoring Excellence Awards, recognizing alumni who have set themselves apart in their lives, work and communities.
27 in the Garden Court Dining Room at Lethbridge College.
“We have been fortunate to have so many skilled, driven and inspiring people come through the college throughout its 60 years,” says Alumni Advisory Council chair David Cocks (Engineering Design and Drafting Technology, 2001). “And we are very proud of the role that the college has played in helping to launch their careers. Those selected for these awards really represent the ideals of Lethbridge College, in both their careers and their communities.”
In one of the categories, the Blood Tribe’s own Charlton Weasel Head is the recipient of this year’s Community Leader Award. Throughout his life, Weasel Head has shown an enthusiasm and an aptitude for both education and athletics and is now instilling that passion in the next generation of learners and athletes.
These three outstanding alumni, Miles Grove, J. Scott Barton and Charlton Weasel Head, will be recognized at this year’s Honoring Excellence recognition event, which will take place at 5:30 p.m. on April
“As a celebration of the college’s 60th anniversary and the 25th anniversary of the Honoring Excellence event, we’re urging all of our alumni and past award winners to attend this exciting celebration,” says Cocks.
After earning his Lethbridge College diploma, Weasel Head went on to receive his Bachelor of General Studies with a major in Physical Education and a minor in Native Studies from Brandon University (BU) and his Bachelor of Education degree and his Masters of Education with a focus in FNMI from the University of Lethbridge. During his three years at the 12
college, he was also well known for his prowess on the basketball court, including being named a three-time Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference all-star and earning all-Canadian honors in 1998. He also had an all-star career during two seasons at BU. Weasel Head is now in his 14th year at Kainai High School on the Blood Tribe, where he currently serves as principal, athletic director and head coach of the Kainai Lady Warriors basketball team. He is also a board member for the Indigenous Sport Council of Alberta and has worked with organizations such as the Alberta School Athletic Association and the Treaty 7 Management Corporation. Weasel Head is a role model who is continually finding ways to better his community. Tickets will go on sale on February 20 and can be purchased online, or by phone at 403-329-7220, and sponsorship opportunities are still available. More information is available online or by contacting Kari Holmes, Alumni Relations Coordinator at 403-329-7220. Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
Wolf Emerging as the Next Young Gun in Rodeo’s Toughest Sport – Bull Riding
It was a real steep jump out of the chute and because my rib was cracked from the first round, I had to pop my chest out but I couldn’t too much because of the pain,” he said. “But I didn’t quit. I just kept going.” To prepare for the rodeo season, Wolf travels to his cousin’s ranch in Siksika where he rides bareback on the open range to develop his balance and agility. This is what he does in looking ahead to the upcoming rodeo season while shooting for another chance to represent his tribe and family at one of the world’s most prestigious rodeos. “It was pretty fun my first year at the INFR and next year I will be entering the open bull riding event,” he said. “I will be gunning it and going all out to make it back to the INFR and hopefully, all my training and practicing will pay off.” In the off-season, Wolf is the quarterback for the Forest Lawn Titans and he also laces up the skates to play hockey in the city leagues, but rodeo remains his passion as the spirit of competing and trying to outduel bulls nearly two-thousand pound heavier than him runs deep in his veins. “Never quit,” is a motto that keeps his mind in focus and his motivation to outride other cowboys in rodeos most dangerous event. “Always try.”
The young Noah Wolf gunning for greatness in rodeo’s toughest sport.
A young man, barely in his teens, is making quite a name for himself in one of the world’s toughest sports – bull riding. Young Noah Wolf, 16, who is a tribal member attending high school at Forest Lawn in Calgary, made it to Las Vegas this past November in the junior bull riding event where he placed third in an arena filled with North America’s top Indian rodeo contestants. “After my first ride, I got hung up and cracked my ribs after the bull I rode stomped on my chest,” he recalled following his first INFR experience. “But, I just dug deep and
got ready for my next bull.” Wolf got bucked off his next ride, but managed to stay on his next bull to move up in the standings. He had enough points to make it to the championship round where he ended up with a third-place finish in his first INFR rodeo. The young Wolf makes no excuses for his performance but wonders how far he could have gone if he was a bit more healthy after he was hung up and stepped on.
This year, the rodeo trail will be filled with the dreams of youngsters trying to make a name for themselves, and experienced old hands who know what it takes to stay on top. But as time leaves its mark on the bodies of these wily veterans, the sport of rodeo will continue to flourish as tough and dedicated youngsters like Noah Wolf are standing ready to count coup in arenas across the country.
“I probably would’ve done a lot better. On my second bull, the one that bucked me off, 13
Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
Day Chief Begins Quest to Compete in Miss Teen Canada Globe Pageant
to promote beauty in all aspects, for true beauty comes from within. As part of the contestants’ requirements, each must develop a platform in highlighting efforts of their choice in their respective communities. Day Chief’s platform focused on an issue central to what teens unfortunately deal with during their teenage years. “My platform is based on cyber-bullying and mental health awareness,” she explained. “I’m interviewing teens my age to get an idea what they might suggest in reducing or eliminating bullying, and trying to find out their thoughts on mental heath issues.” Day Chief was on the Internet one day and came across a contestant search for an upcoming pageant a few years ago. She talked with her mom of the possibility to enter and was later granted an interview with the pageant director. A few days later she was contacted and told she was accepted as a contestant. Since then, she has competed in a number of pageants where she has had two occasions to wear a crown. She placed first in her second pageant where she was named the National Canadian Teen Central Alberta and later competed in the national pageant where she placed ninth among of field of over 30 contestants.
The talented Blood model prepares to walk the runway in Toronto.
A young tribal member is preparing to represent the Kainai Nation in August at the Miss Teen Canada Globe 2017 national pageant in Toronto, ONT. Tennille Day Chief, 16, daughter of Shamrock and Chrystal Day Chief, is busy touching up on a number of skills she requires as she competes with other teens from across the country. “I sent in an application and was given an interview,” she said of her interest to compete in the pageant. “And, for this pageant, you have to fundraise for a charity of your choice – my charity is for the
Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton.” According to its website, Miss Teen Canada Globe is a pageant-productions company founded in 2000 to encourage Canadian women to take pride in their individual beauty while supporting various charity causes. Miss Canada Globe Productions provides an opportunity for young women to become ambassadors of Canada. This contest aims to promote beauty in all aspects, for true beauty comes from within. Miss Canada Globe Productions provides an opportunity for young women to become ambassadors of Canada. This contest aims 14
Today, Day Chief is fundraising to pay her pageant fees, her flight and accommodations for the Miss Teen Canada Globe 2017 national pageant and is feeling the excitement as she continues to prepare for her journey. “I’m very excited, nervous,” she giggled. “But, I’m meeting new people and making friends from all over. Maybe when I’m older, I’ll try to compete in a much larger pageant. I’m always ready for a new challenge.” Day Chief thanks her parents and all those who have contributed and are sponsoring her for the opportunity to bring a national crown home. Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI February 2017
Carriage House Theatre Owner Issues Apology in Response to Depictions of First Nations in Play
in our ignorance we have offended,” said Leavitt. “We have gathered our production team and have actually changed the characters in the show as well as the costumes. There will be no Henny Penny Tribe.”
The Carriage House in Cardston, AB., was host to the stage production Peter Pan. The Truth & Reconciliation Commission has much information to offer for those unaware of the harmful effects of racism, cultural insensitivity and stereotyping.
The Mayor of Cardston Maggie Kronen was one of the guest speakers at a peaceful Idle No More and Council of Canadians (Blood Tribe Chapter) rally at the Moccasin Flats Plaza on Saturday, February 18, 2017, to bring concerns of cooperation and coming forward to begin discussions of creating unity and understanding between the town and the First Nations’ community. The Mayor’s speech was in response to the play at the Carriage House Theatre entitled Peter Pan that drew criticism from the Blood Tribe.
basis,” she said. “It’s time for things to change.”
“I can sense the pain that you have and I think it’s time to heal, to seriously sit together and find ways to heal what divides us,” she said. “I hope we will begin to understand that commonness that we all have in our Creator and to move forward.”
Leavitt issued an apology to tribal leadership and it was hoped she would attend a meeting on Thursday, February 16, 2017, at the Our Place restaurant in Cardston to meet with tribal representatives. But she failed to attend after sending word she was sick.
Lori Brave Rock, Blood Tribe member, said efforts to produce plays or other performances should be well thought out with respect to content, and, in this instance, living near the largest reserve in Canada, careful consideration to the portrayal of First Nations should have been a priority. As a result of this portrayal in the production, negative tensions and lack of cultural sensitivity once again arise. “We are still dealing with racism on a daily
Alonna Leavitt, owner of the Carriage House Theatre in Cardston, AB., extended an apology from the Theatre stemming from culturally inappropriate costumes and content in their stage performance and production of Peter Pan. The production featured actors dressed in clothing simulating historical First Nations attire, using inappropriate language and names unusual to tribal groups.
In her apology, Leavitt said the Carriage House Theatre production will change the content and costumes in the play and will make every effort to remain respectful to the cultural identity of the people of the Blood Tribe and others in the community.
A Blood Tribe member, who chose to remain anonymous, began the move to bring attention to the matter after hearing comments from tribal members about the Peter Pan production. A social media backlash from concerned individuals highlighted the inappropriate portrayal of First Nations people through the stage production. Leavitt said they would have made the necessary changes had they consulted with the First Nations prior to the performance to its audiences. “In hindsight, we wish that we would have consulted with First Nations people - or we wish that they would have let us know the offensive parts of the show,” she said. “We obviously did not have the cultural sensitivity to recognize it for ourselves. Hindsight is always wiser.” After the scheduled meeting, tribal members brought their concerns of cultural insensitivity forward in a peaceful demonstration at the Moccasin Flats Plaza where it was hoped both the representatives of Cardston and the Blood Tribe can begin discussions related to racism, stereotyping and cultural respect. The scheduled meeting at the Our Place restaurant where the apology was to be heard was attended by local Blood Tribe members, Sharon Unger, One Heart, and media representatives including the APTN.
“The Carriage House Theatre would like the First Nations people to understand that there was no intent to offend in our production of Peter Pan. But saying that, 15
Story by Tom Russell