MLIB Newsletter March

MLIB

MARCH 2010

newsletter

NO.5

WE, THE TSE’KHENE NATION (PEOPLE OF THE ROCK) ARE PROUD PEOPLE

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

“a unique opportunity of a lifetime”

O

n January 6, 2010 my mother, Adele Chingee, was contacted via email asking if she could locate myself because I have been invited to apply to participate in The Vancouver 2010 Indigenous Youth Gathering program, so long as I meet the eligibility requirements. What does this mean? Why was I sought out personally? Who else is going? Why did these people

go through hoops trying to locate/contact me? Why do we have to sign confidential agreements? Something great has to come from this; things of this nature don’t happen all to often, if at all.

Considering the above questions, I curiously completed my application the following day.

Once I sent my application off, I was contacted immediately to iron out details that I wasn’t allowed

to share with my family, friends, co-workers, or anyone in general. We were given strict rules from the start that breach in confidentiality will result in immediate removal from the program; but still, what exactly is this program all about?

Read more about Eureka Carty’s unique opportunity to help celebrate the world’s biggest potlatch ― the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games on page 4

www.mlib.ca

Contributors MLIB newsletter Eureka M. Carty, Guy Rocheleau, Tania R. Solonas, Jodie Ware, Wiona George, Marc P. Klijnsmit, Ethan Creyke, Jolene Solonas, Taylor Berle, Kandy Klijnsmit, Bob Inkpen, Ken Solonas & Sandra Hammond.

McLeod Lake Indian Band address: General Delivery McLeod Lake, V0J 2G0 Toll Free 1-888-822-1143 Quarterly Meetings March 4th McLeod Lake March 5th Prince George March 6th Vancouver March 7th Kelowna Website and email address www.mlib.ca msolonas@mlib.ca MLIB Publiction No.5 The MLIB newsletter is published 12 times a year. Members of the McLeod Lake Indian Band and the people of McLeod Lake can submit their news and pictures at mklijnsmit@mlib.ca Office Opening Hours The McLeod Lake Indian Band Office is open Monday - Friday 8.30am - 4.00pm.

CONGRATULATIONS ETHAN CREYKE & TAYLOR BERLE ON RECIEVEING THEIR YELLOW BELTS IN KARATE FEB 16, 2010.

WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS!!!!

LOVE WIONA (MOM)

Eureka with new friend at Vancouver 2010

& JODIE (MOM) 2

Tania R. Solonas

I

hope that this past month has found you all to be healthy, happy, joyous, and free!

Wow, the time has just been flying by. Miss Margie Alec, your friendly Employment and Training Officer will be back in the office on Monday, 01 March 2010 – that’s right, Miss Margie will be back in action. She wanted me to say ‘Hi’ to everyone out there for her.

It has been quite busy here in the Employment & Training department. As for the regular round of training sessions, they will probably be held sometime in April or May / 2010.

If you call into the office, we will have a running list of interested people; as we will be adding our applicants to Duz Cho Logging Ltd’s training group.

I checked an on-line website and this is what you need up north!

GOING TO WORK IN THE PATCH? BE PREPARED Here are some things you need ...

•

H2S Alive ticket

•

WHMIS

•

A clean drivers license

•

An OFA Level 1 ticket is required for some positions.

•

Bear Awareness, Enform Chainsaw Competency, TDG can help get you hired.

‘SAFETY IS PARAMOUNT’ There is zero-tolerance for drugs or alcohol.

Testing will be done.

There are so many opportunities to work up north, especially for MLIB members. If you are serious about working, then you need to take heed to the fact that they need a minimum of one (1) month clean from drugs and alcohol!

The work is there, are you willing to do what it takes to go up north?!?

As for my lil’ Raine Drop, she is doing so well! She is very tall and quick as a whip! I was asking her why she was being bratty one day, and her Daddy said, ‘no she’s sweet.’ She replied to me, ‘I weet Mommy, I weet!’ What a darling!

Awwww, what a “weety”!

3

a unique opportunity of a lifetime

T

he preparation to leave on January 30th was complex.

I started a new job on January 13th, where, on my first day within the first 5 minutes of employment I walked into my Manager’s office and requested 2 weeks off from work; and, not something taking place months from now but in 2 weeks. Talk about pushing my luck. However, I explained my circumstances and with help from the IYG committee I was able to get a release form signed by the Vancouver 2010 Olympic to give to my employer. My employer supported my request.

“I was mourning the loss of a beautiful, close friend/cousin.”

I was scheduled to depart Saturday, January 30th from Prince George airport. As we all know and felt, the sudden passing of Sabrina Marie Tylee changed our lives forever. I still had this great opportunity ahead of me, and where I should have been packing and gathering all necessary items, I was mourning the loss of a beautiful, close friend/cousin. Sabrina’s services were scheduled for Saturday, January 30th and I, honourably, accepted to read her Eulogy at her service. Something I was so unprepared to do but with the strength given to me from the years of awesome friendship with Sabrina, I knew I could do this. It was so incredibly important for me to take part in Sabrina’s services, that I, unsure of the outcome, requested to IYG if my flight could be changed to the next day. IYG in return accepted my request and moved my flight to Sunday Morning on the 31st. I am so grateful to them for this consideration. I know in my heart that Sabrina would have been THRILLED at the idea of myself being able to attend such an event, and so I knew that I had to make both work; mourning Sabrina and attend the IYG. It was very hard emotionally that Sunday morning to fly away from my family and friends, when we all were so fragile and still uncertain about how we are going to move forward from this point forward. Here I was, alone, going away for 2 weeks to be with people that didn’t know me, that didn’t know my circumstances, and am I going to be strong enough to be myself, and take everything I could that this program was going to offer me? Very unexpectedly, right the very moment I landed, IYG turned out to be the best support I could have ever asked for at such a time in my life.

I am so incredibly thankful for that blessing.

We had 15 days ahead of us. When we first gathered there was 350 Indigenous Youth from across Canada. And when I say across Canada, I am talking about every little corner in every province. We had youth from all provinces and territories, all aged between 19-29. Must I add, that I was one of the Elders’ of the Youth, only a handful of us were in the later 20’s.

4

a unique opportunity of a lifetime

T

he group had accommodations located near Squamish, BC. Our camp was at North Vancouver Outdoor School and Evans Lake Conference Centre. My awesome cabin #3 housed 16 GIRLS FOR 2 WEEKS with 2 SHOWERS. People started waking up around 4am to get a shower in and then head back to bed. Needless to say, we all had cold showers for the 2 weeks.

Our day typically started with breakfast served at 7am. Our meals at the camp were buffet style, however, instead of mashed potatoes, roast beef and all the fixings, our meals mostly consisted of Salmon, Venison, Bison and some form of vegetables.

You ate what you were given the choice of having otherwise you didn’t eat at all.

Everyday we had to be bussed to downtown Vancouver.

We were informed that our participation in the IYG was to rehearse our traditional dances because we were going to be the opening act for VANCOUVER 2010 OLYMPIC OPENING CEREMONIES. Our rehearsals took place at BC Place Stadium. Our director was David Atkins, who is well known for directing all Opening Ceremonies and half-time shows in NFL. He appointed us our Choreographer, Alejandro, who we worked with daily for the 2 weeks. We would have rehearsals for approximately 8 hours a day, filled with dancing, group entrances and all together, stamina building, in order to withstand traditional dancing for an hour and a half straight on show day during the Athletes’ Parade.

During the 2 weeks there we were able to attend different meetings with various people.

On (----) we met Governor General, Michelle Jean. In a forum type setting, we were able to voice our opinions/concerns regarding the various challenges our communities face that prevent us from moving forward. A very informative, 2 hour discussion that ended in lunch with her Excellency.

BC Hydro, one of our main sponsors, held a morning conference for the group. We were broken into smaller groups, seated with BC Hydro representatives and then we strategized our vision on what the future looks like to us, regarding hydro, energy, environmental impacts, recycling, communication, education, etc..

5

N

IKE was also a sponsor for IYG. Upon arriving at our camp initially, we received backpacks, a jacket, dry fit t-shirt and a pair of runners all in the name of NIKE. The evening before the Opening Ceremonies, NIKE hosted a Sport Gala Dinner where we were entertained by NIKE reps, Indigenous Athletes, and, past Indigenous Olympic winners and participants. The discussion from the various speakers was very inspiring to say the least. NIKE informed our group that they developed a new sports’ line, N7, Nike for the Seventh Generation. NIKE has been in the process of supporting, encouraging and sponsoring Indigenous Sports across North America. In spirit of the new line, NIKE presented to the youth another pair of runners that are not out on the market until June 2010.

Our group held 2 full out dress rehearsals to prepare us for the crowd that awaits us on Friday, February 12th.

Monday, February 8 we performed for a crowd of 35,000 people. For that day we we re g i ve n 4 tickets each to give to our family/friends if they were able to attend. Wednesday, February 10th we performed for a crowd of 60, 000 people. On February 12th there would be a seated crowd of 85, 000 people and 3.5 BILLION TV viewers across the world. The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Opening Ceremonies was the most watched broadcast in Canada’s history and I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of such a historical moment. This was also the first time in history that Native’s were PARTNERS in the Olympics, not to mention the opening scene for the Opening Ceremonies all together. It was truly an honour to be able to do that on behalf of our Nation, McLeod Lake.

The energy you felt from the crowd on February 12th was unbelievable. I was so amazed by the crowd and caught in the moment that it never occurred that we had danced for over and hour and half. So amazing that its hard to believe that this actually happened. The part with Bryan Adams and Nelly Furtado was a lot of fun, not to mention we were a surprise to them when they arrived on stage. And to all of our excitement and amazement we went ahead and rocked out like no other.

6

It was over so fast, too fast. Once the performance was over, it was very nearly the end of our journey.

So many Nations, so many friends, so many memories in so little time. I will carry this period of time in my life very close to my heart forever. It was a unique opportunity of a lifetime. People say I’m lucky but it wasn’t luck that allowed me to participate. It was hard work, compromise, sacrifice, challenges and diverse perspective that brought me this occasion. I will continue to be who I am. I encourage others’ to do the same. It is never too late to be ourselves, to strive for the best of our abilities and to always reach for the horizon. Now that it is over, I will go about my daily business, eagerly waiting, looking out for and taking hold of the next chance of a lifetime. I’ve had mine, what is yours?

y t r a C .

M Eureka 7

source:

Aboriginal Housing Committee for British Columbia Housing Matters Issue 10-Winter 2007

8

9

Update by Jenine Solonas On Reserve Councillor

Effects of Smoking While Pregnant Warnings and Risks Smoking and pregnancy equals problems. Smoking and pregnancy are two words that definitely do not and should not belong together. A woman who smokes during pregnancy exposes herself and her unborn child to immense health risks. This is obvious if you just take into consideration the fact that cigarette smoke contains more than 2000 component, which includes very harmful nicotine, carbon monoxide and cyanide. The majority of these substances is absorbed by the placenta and affects the baby without the mother even noticing a thing.

Fetal growth restrictions - The most concerning effect of smoking during pregnancy is probably that on fetal growth. A new born of a woman who smokes weighs approximately 170 to 200 grams lighter when compared to the average weight of non-smokers' baby. This can be attributed to the narrowing of oxygen and nutrients transporting blood vessels, which leads to low birth weight and general ill health tendency for the rest of the it's life. The amount of cigarettes a woman smokes has a direct impact on the level of weight reduction.

Research findings - Researchers have found proof that smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of genetic abnormalities including cleft lip or palate, bowel, eyes, ears or spinal cord malformations or problems and last but definitely not least respiratory problems in the form of Asthma. Placenta abnormalities are also more common. It's imperative to keep in mind that the effect of smoking goes way beyond birth. For example an increased risk of respiratory problem development as previously mentioned, during toddler or teenage years. The health benefits of quitting your much loved smokes are undoubtedly immense, this is particularly true and of great significance for pregnant women.

Putting the packet down - permanently will of course be the preferred choice but we all know quitting flatout is easier said than done. Approximately 20 per cent of pregnant women smoke and over 50 per cent of the 20 percent smoke more than 10 cigarettes per day. An unbelievable four per cent of pregnant women manage to quit smoking within the first trimester of pregnancy. Its common knowledge that if you are able to quit smoking in the first trimester of pregnancy, that your chances of having a normal sized baby at birth increases almost to a 100 per cent. This does, however, not mean that any level of smoking is safe or encouraged. Quitting always comes highly recommended. Reducing the amount of cigarettes you nip will still result in exposure of both you and your child to harmful substances, just to a lesser degree. If you find quitting your bad habit completely impossible-keep one very important piece of advice in mind- "more smokes equals more effects on your child".

12

H

ow will smoking affect actual pregnancy? - Smoking will without a doubt affect actual

pregnancy and not just the unborn child. Smoking causes increased heart rate, hypertension and nervous system suppression, which not only effects the baby but can also increase the risk of developing complications for the mother, of which chest infections and blood clotting disorders are a common concern. Other risks - Smoking during pregnancy also increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy, miscarriages, stillbirths, pre-mature births, placenta malformations, morning sickness often requiring hospitalization, bleeding, polyhydramnios, thrush and urinary tract infections including Candida.

Link between smoking and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome - Researchers have found solid proof of the link between smoking during pregnancy and an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Evidence also suggests an increase in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome if the father smokes while the mother is pregnant.

Preferably both parents-to-be should quit smoking during pregnancy. Here the rule will apply again- the more smokes equals the more the risk of SIDS. After birth tips - It's absolutely imperative to keep your baby in a smoke-free environment at all times, no matter how practically impossible it may seem. Stop friends, family or even strangers from smoking in your home, vehicle or any other area near the baby.

Facts on second hand smoke - Second hand smoke also known as passive smoke or environmental tobacco smoke comprises of burning cigarette smoke and exhaled smoker smoke. Medical as well as scientific proof exists to support the fact that the smoke burning-off a cigarette or cigar end actually contains more harmful substances when compared to the first-hand smoke inhaled by the smoker. Should you be one of those unlucky non-smokers who are regularly exposed to second-hand smoke, you will increase your and your new born child's chance of developing repertory cancer, heart disease, emphysema, allergies, asthma, and other health problems, significantly. Babies exposed to second-hand smoke also have a higher risk of developing reduced lung capacity.

There is definitely a lengthy list of effects on smoking while pregnant and so many different variations of ways that smoking during pregnancy can affect the mother and the fetus. Trying to quit smoking isn't an option at this point, it is a must. There is too much at risk for your own health and for your soon to be new born child. Take advantage of all support groups and programs that are available to gain a fresh healthier way of living.

Effects of smoking while pregnant can lead to so many health/medical problems beyond repair. Educating yourself on how to quit smoking now is vital to your own well being and your loved ones. Take advantage of free resources available to you so you can quit smoking with guidance and help while on your way to a new smoke free healthy lifestyle.

13

Horoscope Closed-door meetings may seem intimidating, but remember they aren't always about you.

The result of one such meeting midmonth could be a staggering new project or proposal that renews your confidence. You begin to feel renewed energy and self-assurance on March 10 when Mars, your ruler, turns direct in the house of creative ventures. Your dream suddenly appears within your grasp. Around the March 20 Spring Equinox, you see a New Year's intention begin to take form. The Full Moon on March 29 could bring a new partner, but it could be that a once trusted ally makes a regrettable exodus.

This month the bright light of the Sun shines on your house of hopes and wishes. Although your wish may be realized, it could come in an unexpected form and develop into something far surpassing your expectations. Four heavy-duty planets accompany the Sun, including deal-breaker Uranus. As early as March 3, expect a breakthrough in a current holdup. With Mars turning direct on March 10, you might recall a childhood dream and actually see it begin to take form. The Full Moon in Libra on March 29 is in your house of employment. All the loose ends seem to tie together in that sector of your life

Aquarius is usually in the driver's seat, but with Neptune and Chiron clouding your personal reality, you might feel at a spiritual crossroads. The Second House of your finances and possessions is packed with half the planets, calling your attention to that usually neglected area. You need resolution this month. Mars turning direct on March 10 energizes your house of partners. It could mean there's more than one person on your mind. With so many planets in your house of possessions, you may opt for the partner offering the most benefits, which goes against your grain.

The choice will be difficult. You make the right decision when the March 29 Full Moon in Libra activates your hopes and dreams, making you a master of the spoken word

Your business acumen surprises your pals and employer this month, as your head usually appears to be in the clouds. In March, Neptune and Chiron in your house of karma could bring an unexpected brush with success. With Pluto in your house of hopes and dreams, that crazy idea you've played down to everyone really can catch on. Your work environment is energized on March 10 as Mars starts to roar. Accolades come from every corner of the room. The March 15 New Moon tangles with Uranus in your sign and you could shock an authority figure with your ideas and performance. The Sun joins Uranus on March 16 and you enjoy another day of admiration. The March 29 Full Moon in your house of funds from others could

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if

indicate much-needed money coming in.

More Horoscopes on Page 16

you stop opening presents and listen.

14

Forestry Report Ryan Bichon

MLIB March 2010 Quarterly Meetings March 4th – McLeod Lake Gymnasium March 5th – Days Inn (Prince George) March 6th – Chateau Granville (Vancouver) March 7th – The Coast Capri Hotel (Kelowna)

Wow 1 - $500.00 Grand Prize and 4 - $250.00 prize draws to be awarded at each Quarterly Meeting.

Draws will be random throughout the meeting and Band Members must be in attendance to receive the prize.

Good luck and hope to see you all there!!

15

Your partner has your full attention this month, but is it business, romance, or both? The transits aiding this relationship repeat several times during March. March 3 brings a clue to the action ahead. Mars turning direct causes restlessness within your soul. You feel an edge you haven't felt in some time. The time of action is March 15 and 16, when the New Moon, Uranus, and the Sun shine their light on this special bond that's about to be born. The Full Moon of March 29 implies financial bounty with this new venture. The month goes out like a lion as the Moon and Mars bring a challenge that you continue to handle like the professional you are.

The Sun's radiance shines on your intention to improve your status. It's graduation day with Chiron and Neptune in the house of the school of life. You've learned your lessons well the past few years. Your expertise in expressing new ideas to higher-ups isn't lost on March 10, when those ideas reach the right ears.

A new commitment to your advancement could start as early as the Spring Equinox on March 20. On March 29, the Full Moon lights up in your house of creative expertise and work as play and could bring that longed-for special assignment. March ends like a lion, and you can hear the roar throughout the workplace.

With five planets in your chart's school-of-life sector, it seems you've learned a lesson or two about possessions since January. When Mars turns direct on March 10, what you've been yearning for could finally be within your grasp. Just when you think you know it all, the New Moon on March 15 adds a twist to what you claim as yours. Despite the twists and turns of early March, reinforce your intention to keep what is yours. Thank a kindly Universe for your good luck on the Spring Equinox. The Full Moon on March 29 shines on your sanctuary. There could be a private celebration with a special someone for all that has been bestowed upon you.

There's no Leo pouting this month. The energy you receive on March 10 from Mars turning direct in your sign is enough to move you to that higher plateau. Your creative juices flow, but you seem to have hit a wall. That wall suddenly crumbles and you see the new horizon. A joint venture or funds from a business associate could create this opportunity. With the New Moon and Uranus tied on March 15, you could move from a zone of boredom into refreshing new territory.

The elation continues on March 16 as the Sun shines on the planet of electrical events. A Full Moon on March 29 gives you the eloquence to spread thanks.

I have something to say.......

More Horoscopes on Page 18

Anything to share or show?? Send your story and/or pictures to mklijnsmit@mlib.ca 16

Financial Update Sandra Hammond

Hello Everyone, it’s that time of month again, monthly newsletter time! Here is your Finance update for the month of March 2010.

At the February 18, 2010 Chief and Council meeting, your Chief and Council approved the second draft of the McLeod Lake Indian Band Budget. The second draft replaces the first approved budget, which included accessing the Trust, which we learned on February 09, 2010, wasn’t going to be possible at this time. The second draft of the budget is fairly similar to the 2010 budget; there are some changes though, which will be gone over in more detail at the quarterly meetings.

As I type, the T4’s are being finished off; they should be in the mail by February 28, 2010, so if you haven’t received yours by the middle of March, please contact Jamie Ware or Beth Cooper and they can assist you in getting a copy.

The next deadline for the finance department is the fiscal year end, March 31, 2010. The time before the fiscal year end is relatively quiet for us, but that changes after the year end, when we will be quite busy getting ready for the auditor, who come in May. Hope to see you all at the quarterlies!!

TAX TIME

You should be receiving your T slips now. Your 2009 taxes are due April 30th, 2010. If you require help preparing your 2009 or previous year's taxes, please contact Margaret Solonas at McLeod Lake Indian Band reception, (888) 822-1143 or Bob Inkpen at (866) 283-6542.

17

With your polish and capacity for finding the right words, you shine in the workplace this month. The spotlight of sudden recognition could be on you as early as March 3. Mars, the sleeping lion, wakes on March 10, compelling you to make your presence known.

Pluto pushes you to consider a possible real estate proposition. In some cases, this energy could end something that you've wanted to cut off for some time, such as a pesky habit.

The Full Moon in your house of personal reality and personality brings a bright aura, drawing a new friend or relationship. Jupiter and Chiron in the Fifth House of winning make real what seemed only a long-held dream.

The Sun represents your personal style. In Pisces, it shines on romance and any creative brainchild you're nurturing. There's electricity in the air and your vibrations reach the ears of those in positions of power. There could be new action in your career as early as March 10, when Mars wakes from a four-month slumber. Neptune and Chiron together could bring your home into the mix whether it involves working from home or someone moving into your domain. The Sun and Moon add their power to the magical Spring Equinox on March 20, and career prospects bubble with optimism. The March 29 Full Moon reminds you of a lost opportunity. You won't repeat that situation.

Friends wonder about your desire to escape the spotlight and spend time inside your home. You may simply desire downtime before emerging with a new plan. Mars turns direct on March 10 and lights up your house of long voyages of the mind and body. You could put into action a dream that is dear to your heart. With the New Moon, Sun, and Uranus in Pisces on March 15 and 16 in your area of the home front, smoldering tensions could develop. You address them and don't allow them to fester. The month ends with the Full Moon in your house of dreams, hopes, and wishes. You use your unique communicative ability to smooth any rough edges.

How you live is slowly changing as Pluto in your sign deepens your emotions. Your communicative abilities increase with a cluster of planets in your house of sweet talk. With the South Node in your house of the partner, you'll charm your way to your goal. Your intuition is high with eight planets in this place of knowing what others want from you. Mars turns direct in your house of joint ventures on March 10. Your smooth conversation eases a stronger association with someone important. On March 15 and 16 the New Moon and Uranus could bring a short trip that rejuvenates your spirit. The Full Moon shines on your career, perhaps bringing a reward for a job well done.

18

The Grizzly Inn 36530 Hart Highway Bear Lake, BC V0J 3G0 (250) 972- 4335 www.thegrizzlyinn.com info@thegrizzlyinn.com Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

14

Newsletter & Website Update Contest!

Who’s up for a contest? We have named the MLIB Newsletter “MLIB Newsletter”. Even though it is an ok name, it is not very creative, so we thought it would be a good idea to look for a new name. Please send your suggestions to mklijnsmit@mlib.ca and the winner will receive a delicious prize!

Website I don’t know how we do it, but we get visitors from “all over the world”!! Last month I added webstats to the MLIB site to give me a better view on how people find us.

Number 1 is Google. When people type “first nations” or “Indian Band” or “Lake” on the different Googles

we end up high on the list. Sites like treaty8 and aboriginalcanada and Hydro also lead people to our site.

Most people check out the homepage (the first page) and click most of the links. That is good for a 5 minute visit. I’m sure when we get the content ready for all the departments, we can keep people even longer on our website.

I hope you enjoyed this months Newsletter. Not too many reports this month, because most of them went straight into the Quarterly Report. Check out the QR online from March 4th @ mlib.ca

From MLIB web-stats

Greetings,

smit Marc P. Klijn

Coming soon! The MLIB Newsletter in German, Dutch, Taiwanees, Japanees and Mexican. We are still looking for a Ukrainian translator.

LOL

MLIB Newsletter No.6 will be available April 1st 2010 (not a joke) online at www.mlib.ca or, on request, in print at the McLeod Lake band office.