TTFOctober2013

MLIB OCTOBER 2013

The Traveling Feather

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

NO.27

OCTOBER quarterly quarterly meetings meetings Making sure the Footprints we leave behind are ones our Children will be proud to walk in.

Contributors MLIB The Traveling Feather Derek Orr, Adele Chingee, Anita Vallee, Shandi Covell, Nicole Peterson, Jodie Ware, Alec Chingee, Minnie Isadore, Meaghan van Somer, Chris Kaip, Jodi Sharp, Matt Shaw, Ken Solonas, Deborah Prince, Misty Williams, Geraldine Solonas, Minnie Isadore, Alec Chingee,

McLeod Lake Indian Band address General Delivery McLeod Lake, V0J 2G0 Toll Free 1-888-822-1143

To all Mcleod Lake Members, So we have a name for the store. It is called TSE’KHENE FOOD & FUEL. If you as members like this name please email misadoreatmlib.ca. Or if you can think of a new name and submit it to Minnie Isadore at the email above. We will consider any new names submitted.

Mussi Cho

Newsletter Submissions Would you like to write something for The Traveling Feather? Please email a submission to mklijnsmit@mlib.ca

MLIB Publication No.27 The Traveling Feather is published up to 12 times a year. Members of the McLeod Lake Indian Band and readers of The Traveling Feather 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.

Stay connected! Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. Get your updates on band business, events and news.

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NOTICE'OF'VOTE'

MCLEOD'LAKE'INDIAN'BAND' RATIFICATION'VOTE'FOR'AMENDMENTS'TO' MCLEOD'LAKE'INDIAN'BAND'CUSTOM'ELECTION'CODE'(2004)' AND' MCLEOD'LAKE'INDIAN'BAND'MEMBERSHIP'CODE'(2004)' A'vote'will'be'held'on'whether'to'approve'amendments'to'the'McLeod'Lake' Indian'Band'Custom'Election'Code'(2004)'and'McLeod'Lake'Indian'Band' Membership'Code'(2004).'Vote'day'will'be'October'28th'2013.''All#voting#will#be# done#by#Mail#in#Ballot.'

To'be'able'to'vote,'voters'must'be'a'McLeod'Lake'Indian'Band'member'and'be'18' years'of'age'or'older'on'Voting'day,'October'28th,'2013.'

Any'member'who'is'eligible'may'request'a'Mail'in'Ballot'from'the'Ratification/' Electoral'Officer.'There#will#be#no#in6person#voting#at#the#place#of#the#count.# All'mail'in'ballots'must'be'received'before'2:30'pm'on'October'28th'2013.'Ballots' may'be'hand'delivered'to'the'Ratification/Electoral'Officer'at'the'Prince'George' Native'Friendship'Centre;'1600'3rd'Ave.'Prince'George,'B.C.'between'2:30'pm'and' 3:00'pm'on'October'28th'2013.'

Counting#of#the#ballots#will#take#place#at#the#Prince#George#Native#Friendship# Centre;#1600#3rd#Ave.#Prince#George,#B.C.##Starting#at#3:00#pm.##Members#of#the# McLeod#Lake#Indian#Band#are#permitted#to#attend#the#count#which#will#be#held# in#the#Circle#of#Unity#Room.# ' '

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' ' Loreen'Suhr,'Ratification/Electoral'Officer' Ph:'1[250[964[1016' Toll'free:'1[855[964[1016' Fax:'1[250[964[1018' e[mail:'loreensuhr@telus.net#

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Dated:'October'3

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Dear Members, I hope you are well and enjoying the fall weather. It was great to see all our Members who attended our 2013 Annual General Assembly in August. We had record attendance of Members that enjoyed in the three days of discussion, food and fun. On the last day we had over 250 members attending to celebrate our community and successes. On October 17-20 we will be holding quarterly meetings in McLeod Lake, Prince George, Vancouver and Calgary. Time and location of meeting will be posted on our website.

The purpose of the October Quarterlies is to provide further information on the Summit Pipeline Sale and to answer any questions regarding the Membership and Election Code Ratification. Once again there has been misinformation and fear mongering being posted on some Facebook pages. So, as a result we would like to provide our members with another opportunity to ask questions at the upcoming Quarterly meetings.

For some time it has been a goal to work towards improving the Governing Codes of McLeod Lake Indian Band. At first Chief and Council took on the challenge of amending the Election and Membership code, but because of the perceived conflict of interest if Council took a lead role in the amendment of the Codes, we decided that it would be better to hire a consultant. We then sent out a request for proposal.

Chief and Council received three proposals and awarded the contract to Regina Toth and Rick Krehbiel. Regina Toth owns her own company and has extensive knowledge on First Nations. Rick Krehbiel has legal training and consults on First Nations issues. In the past he helped McLeod Lake Indian Band pass our Land Code in 2003. These individuals were chosen based on their expertise and knowledge of First Nations and First Nation issues.

With clear direction Regina and Rick then scheduled meeting to gain Membership input.

After gaining input from Membership they then made appropriate changes based on information gained from membership. In addition, many of the amendments were merely drafting and grammatical changes to clarify the codes and make them more accurate and easy to read.

There are a few fundamental changes within the Election and Membership Code, however, these changes will improve accountability and improve the process for Membership applications. The packages you have received from the Electoral Officer clearly outline the changes to each the Codes.

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September 05, 2013 I met with Local MLA, Mike Morris to discuss the concerns MLIB has with the LNG Pipelines that are being proposed throughout Northeastern BC and MLIB’s Traditional Territory. I requested a meeting with Premiere Christy Clarke to voice our concerns with the environmental impacts that the LNG projects pose to MLIB. September 09, 2013 I met with the MLIB Land Management Committee seeking their recommendation and approval of land parcels that will be designated for construction of community a Gas Bar and a community Smoke House. The Land Management Committee voted unanimously in favor of the development plans for Community Gas Bar and Smoke House.

September 10, 2013 Chief and Council held a Special meeting in McLeod Lake. Building upon the Land Management Committee’s recommendations, Chief and Council voted unanimously in favor of approving the budget and land parcels for construction of Gas Bar and Smoke House in McLeod Lake.

On October 23 and 24, 2013 The Land Management Committee will be holding meetings in Prince George and McLeod Lake to provide Members with more details about the Gas Bar, Smokehouse and other planned activities on MLIB Lands. Time and location of these meetings will be posted on the MLIB Website.

On September 11, 2013 Councillor Destiny Bear and I met in Prince George with TransCanada Pipeline Representatives to discuss their proposed Prince Rupert Gas Transmission Line and the Coastal Gaslink projects and voice our concerns with them.

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On September 12, 2013 Chief and Council met and voted in favor of providing a dividend of $15,000 to all communal Members. This dividend was the second half of the dividend project decided upon by Council in June 2013.

I was asked to speak to the Calgary Chamber of Commerce on September 17 -18, 2013. My presentation included a brief outline of MLIB’s financial position in 2008, the steps we took to recover and the extraordinary outcomes that resulted from proper planning and fiscal responsibility.

On September 21-22, 2013 I attended consultation meetings in Calgary and Vancouver, and on September 24, 2013 I attend the Northeastern Gas Summit in Vancouver. First Nations, Industry and Government delegates all attended the Summit.

Chief and Council met with Representatives from BC Hydro on September 25, 2013. BC Hydro gave an update on the proposed site C Dam project.

Chief and Council held their regular Chief and Council meeting in McLeod Lake on September 26, 2013. Minutes will be available once they are approved.

October has also been busy. On October 2, 2013 I attended the Career Fair in Mackenzie hosted by MLIB Education Department. Congratulations to the Education Department on a great success.

October 3, 2013 Councillor Geraldine Solonas and I met with representatives from Anglo American to get update on mine operation and to take a tour of the Trend Mine that is located by Tumbler Ridge. On October 8, 2013 I attended the Commissioning Ceremony at Mt Milligan. The Commissioning Ceremony was to celebrate the start of production. The mine is now in full operation.

In conclusion, I look forward to seeing many of our Members at the October Quarterlies. If you have any question or concerns on these topics or any other please feel free to contact me at 250-981-1332.

Respectfully,

Chief Derek Orr

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Good day all, MLIB Administration staff is starting to prepare for the new fiscal budget. In order to complete this process, the senior management will participate in Strategic Planning sessions along with Chief and Council sometime in November. At the session the Senior Managers will identify strategic goals for the upcoming fiscal year which will be approved

by Chief and Council. Each department manager will complete work plans to each strategic priority of the Band. A budget is developed in order to facilitate the work plans.

This leads us straight into preparing the annual fiscal budget for Chief and Council and Administration.

The MLIB 2012-13 Annual Audit process has been completed. We are ecstatic to report MLIB has received another “unqualified audit”. The Annual Audit has been thoroughly examined by Aboriginal Affairs of Canada. On October 3, 2013 the MLIB audit was accepted and approved by Aboriginal Affairs. Congratulations to Chief and Council and the Administration team for another year of excellent fiscal management. It was a great team effort!!

I want to remind MLIB members to go to the www.mlib.ca website for correct Band Operation information. We also have our own Face book page so you can send in your comments and suggestions.

Don’t forget to vote on the upcoming referendum vote on the Amendments to the MLIB Election and Membership Code. It is almost 10 years since both Codes were last looked at.

Amendments are necessary as governing documents age with time, and need periodically to be made current, and to be reviewed so that ‘grey areas’ in governing documents can be cleaned up. For our process, MLIB engaged professional drafters to amend the two documents. The consultants conducted community meetings to meet and answer memberships’ concerns and listen to their feedback. As a reminder, the referendum is by ‘mail in’ ballot only, so please get your ballots into the Electoral Officer before October 28th, 2013. If you have any questions about your ballot please contact the Electoral Officer. Her contact info is included in the packages.

As always, I want to extend good health to all of you. Mussi.

From Adele – Band Manager

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October 9, 2013 Dear Members, I want to inform you that the defamation law suit between the McLeod Lake Indian Band and Verne Solonas has been settled. The terms of the settlement are: 1.

A permanent injunction has been ordered preventing Verne from repeating untruths about myself and the rest of Council concerning corruption and mismanagement.

2.

Verne has made a public apology to the Band published in the Prince George Citizen, in the Prince George Free Press; and on 250news.com.

3.

Verne has agreed to pay up to $10,000.00 in costs to the Band and $15,000.00 in damages to me personally for the harm his untruths did to me.

I do not want however to profit personally from this unfortunate situation, and neither Council nor myself believe that as Coucillors we should be profiting. I therefore have agreed with Council that any money I receive in payment of the $15,000.00 will go first of all to the Band’s costs. If there is any money left over after the Band completely recovers its costs, I will donate the rest to MLIB Youth and Mental Health Programs.

Thank you for all your kindnesses to me during this time.

Jenine Solonas

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Danache'a everyone

Another Quarterly Meeting is upon us. It is a nice feeling to be getting into this routine, consistent communication line and chance to meet face to face. Our Band is in a good position business wise. The recent distribution has been completed, and I have noticed on facebook the happy spending and getting out of debt messages. I'm one of the happy out of debt members and appreciative for the benefits the band is able to distribute recently.

The amendments for the codes is going well with the 2 rounds of meetings under our belt and 1 more to come with the Quarterly meetings. PLEASE read through the information and continue to provide your questions and feedback on these proposed changes. We are reaching more members now and this referendum on OCTOBER 28 is very important for your Band members, the efficiency for our Membership and Election process, and how our Band shapes in the near future.

Having been through the last 2 elections process as a nominee, candidate and then off reserve councillor I am aware of how the election process is not easy to follow, understand or will benefit us in the long run. A better process means less frustrations, and the frustrations is from the different interpretations, perspective and expectations of the Code. These amendments are not implementations or pushed agenda's, it's a chance for our families to be included back into membership from previous Government polices set in the past, it's for our members to know and trust in their future and feel stronger towards self government.

I hope everyone is well and the families are healthy, I acknowledge the members who have passed. All are thought of and missed.

Mussi Cho everyone!!

Yaz Prince Off Reserve Councillor

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Natural Resources Report October 7, 2013 Summer Crews All summer crews are now concentrating on making firewood for community members, except the layout crew which is laying out future harvest areas in Kerry Lake East. Birch firewood has been delivered and delivery of dry pine is in progress.

Treaty 8 Forestry There is currently no logging taking place on Treaty 8 Settlement Lands. Conifex is interested in buying the logs from the Treaty 8 harvest this winter. A new Forest Development Plan also needs to be completed and made available for membership review as soon as possible.

Summer Projects Cultural Camp: Work is continuing intermittently on the cultural camp at McIntyre Lake, with a focus on further clearing the site and burning debris. Dialogue with Canfor is on-going in relation to improving access to the site when a nearby cutblock is logged (possibly this winter). The new access will significantly shorten the walk into McIntyre Lake.

Cemetery: The lot upon which the proposed new cemetery will be located (behind the ball field) has been surveyed. Lees & Associates (Professional Cemetery Planners) will use the survey of the lot to prepare final plans before winter. Construction will have to wait until next summer.

Boat Launch: This project has been deferred until next year pending a re-evaluation of the plans and associated costs, which appear to be extravagant. A dock for the site will still be ordered because the plan is to have a dock in place regardless of what plans materialize for the rest of the site. A new site plan and new permits will be explored this winter.

Signs & Gates: The plan is to install gates on a number of roads to restrict access to MLIB Reserve Lands.

The first heavy duty pipe gate has been delivered and will be installed as a test before ordering additional gates. New signs for the NRC building and Highway 97 access point have been delivered and will be installed soon.

Community Smokehouse: The location and design of the Community Smokehouse have now been approved by the Land Management Committee and Band Council. The plan is start construction as soon as possible.

McLeod Lake Mackenzie Community Forest The Community Forest has one block that is actively being logged by Duz Cho Logging. The Community Forest has slowly (in the face of low log prices and an abundance of dead pine) managed to steadily gain financial stability.

Three Feathers Consortium Forest License The partnership Forest License held jointly by McLeod Lake, Tsay Keh, and Kwadacha has not logged any wood yet, but is close to being operational.

Ryan Bichon MLIB Natural Resources Manager

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McLeod Lake Indian Band Membership Code, 2013 Significant Proposed Amendments Many of the changes that are proposed to amend the 2004 Membership Code are simply drafting and grammatical changes that are intended to make the Code more accurate and easy to read. However, some of the changes represent major policy issues which are important to understand so that the members can make an informed decision when they vote on October 28, 2013. These major changes are as follows: 1.

Preamble: Difference between “Indian status” and “band membership”: Section 5 has been added to make it clear that just because Indian Affairs registers someone as an Indian who is affiliated with McLeod Lake Indian Band that does not mean the person is a band member. Only MLIB can decide who is a band member. This is not new or controversial, but is included for clarity.

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Definitions: 

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Definitions related to age: It is proposed that the voting age be raised from 18 years to 19 years in order to be consistent with the Trust Agreement. This change is reflected wherever age appears by amending definitions such as “Child” and “Elector” and deleting unnecessary definitions such as “Age of Majority”.

Definitions related to “Custom”: Traditional customs are a complex matter so direct references to custom in relation to adopted children and marriage have been removed, while still leaving open the option to practice customs as appropriate on a case by case basis.

Definitions related to “Indians”: The code uses the term “Status Indian” rather than “Indian” to refer to persons who are registered under the Indian Act. This will hopefully reinforce the concept that membership comes from the Band and not from the Indian Act.

Categories of Members: There is no change to the basic approach that all persons who were band members on March 27, 2000 when the Treaty 8 Adhesion came into effect are band members. Status Indians and others who are not Status Indians are entitled to become band members if, and only if, they descend from a person who was a band member at that time. There are changes in the terminology, but the effect is not changed from the 2004 Code.

Adopted Children: In the 2004 Membership Code any child who was adopted by a band member was eligible for band membership. Under the 2013 Code, adoption would not have any effect on eligibility for membership; instead only adopted children who are descended from band members would be eligible to become band members.

Transferees: There is no change to the basic rule that descendants of McLeod Lake band members who are members of other bands can apply to transfer their membership to McLeod Lake Indian Band. The amendments clarify the application process and would require the applicant to provide more information about the reason for their application, their character and what they can contribute to the band. Council would have to formally support the application by Band Council Resolution before it would be accepted. Also, there would be a new provision for the families of members who had transferred out prior to 2007, and then transferred back, to become band members. Finally, Council would not unreasonably object to a member

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Hello everyone,

The new gym at the McLeod Lake Band Office is now up and running! The gym room has been completely renovated with new paint and a new floor, and the room is full of extremely nice equipment, including a universal gym, dumbbells, a stationary bike, a treadmill, and an elliptical trainer (please see attached photos). All the equipment is of very high quality and will provide members and staff the opportunity to stay fit over the winter.

Thanks to everyone who helped renovate the gym and set up the equipment! This is a really nice asset for the McLeod Lake Indian Band.

If you are using the gym and would like a few tips on how best to use the equipment, please let me know, and I would be happy to help you.

Thanks,

Matt Shaw Counsellor

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Eat Clean Train Dirty 18

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McLeod Lake Indian Band Custom Election Code, 2013 Significant Proposed Amendments Many of the proposed amendments to the 2004 Custom Election Code are simple drafting and grammatical changes to clarify the Code and make it more accurate and easy to read. However, some of the changes represent major policy issues which are important to understand so that the members can make an informed decision when they vote on October 28, 2013. The proposals are as follows: Definitions 

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The definition of “Candidate” would specify that severalty members, because they have no interest in the communal land base or revenues, are not eligible for nomination to elected office on Council, the Land Management Committee or the Board of Trustees.

A definition of “Conflict of Interest” has been included which reflects the definition in the Land Code and the 2009 Council Policies and Guidelines.

The definition of “Elector” would increase the voting age from 18 years to 19 years to be consistent with the Trust Agreement.

Application The revised Code would apply to band council elections, election of Trustees, the Land Management Committee and other votes such as amendments to other codes and votes on important questions.

Part 1: Positions and terms of office The age of the Youth Councillor would be increased to 19 years. The Chief could now reside in Chetwynd. The factors to determine “ordinarily resident” have been clarified to reflect court decisions.

The conditions of holding office on Council would reflect the 2009 Council Policies and Guidelines. A Chief or Councillor could only miss three, rather than six, consecutive regular meetings without approval. Missing six consecutive regular meetings for illness would be deemed to be a resignation. Members of Council would be penalized $300 from their honorariums for missing any meeting after having received forty-eight hours’ advance notice.

Part 2: Election Officials Future Electoral Officers would require certification of qualifications by AANDC. Part 3: Nominations and Declaration of Election The date for holding the nomination meeting would be advanced from 36 to 45 days before an election.

Part 4: Notice of Election by Voting The time for posting a notice of election would be increased from 30 to 42 days before the election. This would enable mail outs to be sent by regular mail rather than the very costly registered mail. The

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Forming Healthy Attachment between Children their Caregivers and their Community Babies aren’t born with social skills. The caregiver-child relationship teaches a baby’s brain about the safety of emotional interactions with others. If babies and toddlers experience a trusting bond in the caregiver-child relationship, a healthy attachment forms.

Young children develop healthy attachments when parents and caregivers respond quickly and consistently to a baby’s physical and emotional needs. Babies and toddlers need comforting human touch, a nurturing feeding environment, loving eye contact, calming sounds and pleasant facial expressions as a part of forming a trusting relationship.

Children are masters at copying behavior. When a parent/caregiver models social qualities such as empathy, care, self-control and kindness, children actually see what it looks like to respect others and think of others, social skills that transfer well to later years when children make friends.

Steps to Help with the Transition of a Child to a New Primary Caregiver The child only knows that they are leaving behind caregivers that they have formed a primary attachment with. It is typical then, for the child to react with unexplained crankiness, clinginess, or crying. The child might also regress in his skills or behavior, such as bedwetting.

The following are ways to help the child build trust in their new caregivers: Meet the child's emotional state, and attune yourself to that.

Mirror the child's expressions, vocalizations, level of excitement.

Comfort the child over the grief he/she is feeling.

Look for opportunities to hold, snuggle, nurture, and soothe your child.

• • • •

Making sure the child's basic needs are met satisfying his or her eating and sleeping needs, providing loving physical touch are very important first steps to develop an attachment.

In addition, games or interactive toys you've brought from home are a playful way to promote much needed eye contact and pleasant interactions without promoting anxiety. !

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Teck is proud to announce the second annual deadline for the Teck Canadian Aboriginal Bursary Award on November 1, 2013.

What:

When:

The Teck Canadian Aboriginal Bursary Award was created to support Aboriginal students attending a post-secondary institution or a technical training and development program.

Preference will be given to students who have demonstrated academic excellence, financial need, contributions to their community, and who are from communities where Teck has operations, projects or is conducting exploration work. The bursary is organized and distributed by Indspire, formerly the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation, through their Building Brighter Futures Bursary and Scholarship Awards Program.

The deadline to apply is November 1, 2013.

Eligibility: Students must identify as First Nation, Inuit and MĂŠtis and be attending a full-time certificate or diploma program, or undergraduate and graduate degree programs from an accredited post-secondary institution.

How:

Check the “Post-secondary Education� (PSE) box on the application form in order to be eligible for the Teck bursary. To download an application form and application instructions, visit: https://indspire.ca/programs/building-brighter-futures/applyfor-a-bursary-or-scholarship/

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We#will#be#hosting#an#open#house#style#presentation#and#open# discussions#on#the#following#projects#we#have#been#working#on;#####################  Cemetery'  Culture'Camp'  Store/Gas'Station'  Forestry4Kerry'Lake'East'  Boat'Launch'  Signs/Gates' !

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“#Lunch#/#Supper#will#be#provided”# October#23,#2013EEEPrince#George#ENative#Friendship#Center#12E4pm# October#24,#2013—Mcleod#Lake#B.C.EE#Band#Hall#4E6#p.m.# “Comments#and#feedback#are#encouraged”# Any#Questions#please#contact#the#Land#Mgmt#Team#250E750E4415# !

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Tse’khene Community Development Corporation The Tse’khene Community Development Corporation is a newly created organization that will seek impact benefit agreements from major resource projects within the MLIB Traditional Territory, administer these funds and advise Council on projects, assist members and the Band to start new businesses, and do other works that promote the economic and community wellbeing of McLeod Lake.

Council has chosen Eureka Carty as Chairperson, Geraldine Solonas as secretary, and Rod Inglis, Ken Solonas, and Minnie Isadore as Directors. A manager is being sought for the organization. The Tse’khene Community Development Corporation will take over the responsibilities of the McLeod Lake Indian Band Development Corporation.

Gas Bar and Store Work has commenced on the gas bar and store which will be located at the corner of Carp Lake Road and Reservoir Road. Surveying of the lot has been completed, clearing done, permits obtained for access to Carp Lake Road. Soil testing is underway and engineering is being done for structures.

The business will initially start with a small trailer office as a store. Tobacco, gasoline and essentials will be sold. For more information, please attend the information sessions held on October 23rd in Prince George and October 24th in McLeod Lake.

Duz Cho Group of Companies Duz Cho Construction has had an average year in 2013 with most of its work at Mount Milligan and some contracts with mining and gas exploration companies. Contracts are expected to be somewhat higher in 2014 with major growth in 2015 as major projects are expected to commence construction.

Duz Cho Construction is looking for members to join the company. Duz Cho is committed to provide training and an individual training plan. Please contact Ken Solonas at 250 788 3120 if you are interested in joining the team.

Jim Humphreys has taken an extended leave of absence and has been replaced by Chris Leatherdale. Chris has worked in the heavy equipment industry for 20 years and has been with Duz Cho Construction for five years.

Sawmill It has long been a goal of the Band to operate a sawmill. Currently, Duz Cho Logging is researching the possibility of utilizing tree tops which are currently being left in the bush and burned. This material would be under 6 inches in diameter. The sawmill would debark the wood, chip the outside and produce small dimension lumber for sale to Asia. If determined viable, the mill would be located in Mackenzie and would employ about 20 people over two shifts. There will be a training program to assist members to become employees.

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Northern Indigenous Crane After much effort and negotiation, a new company called Northern Indigenous Crane has been established. This venture has been formed by West Moberly First Nation, Saulteau First Nation, McLeod Lake Indian Band and NCSG from Edmonton. NCSG is a large Canadian crane and heavy hauling company that is engaged in large construction projects. This joint venture brings three bands together with a competent and partly Aboriginal-owned company that will be able to serve major industrial developments occurring within the Traditional Territory.

The joining of three first nations in one venture provides strength as we approach major companies. The benefits to McLeod Lake will be a share of the profits and the opportunity for members to become crane operators. More information will be provided to members as this joint venture proceeds.

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First Nations Employment & Education & Training Liaison Officer Update O C T O B E R

McLeod LakeIndian Band SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST: 

Mt. Milligan processed their first load of copper/oar/ gold on August 15, 2013.

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One student attending full time studies at CNC Mackenzie this year—Gas subsidies are available for this campus if you consider attending

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35 companies attended the career fair to support

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Attended the following: community Sustainability Committee, Met with Northern Lights college in regards to the Workplace Essential Skills training to take place in community

M I S T Y &

A N I T A

Employment & Training CAREER FAIR: We hosted our annual career fair on October 2, 2013 which was a huge success. Thank you to all the band members that supported and attended the career fair. The Elders provided lunch that day and sold out very fast.

SERVICES PROVIDED: Employment Support

Foundation Level Millwright Feb—July 2014

WHERE TO FIND ME:

Training Support

Monday, Tuesday and Friday at MLIB main office.

Referral Support

8:30 am to 4:00 pm Thursday at Mackenzie Employment Services Center located next to CNC Phone: 250-997-7208 Toll Free: 877-997-4333 8:30 am to 4:00 pm

UPCOMING TRAINING: Misty Williams and Anita Vallee

Essential Office Skills Nov to Jan 2014

McLeod Lake Indian Band

Heavy Equipment Operator Program Spring 2014

Fax: 250-750-4420

McLeod Lake members 

B Y

Phone: 250-750-4415 Ext 836

Wednesdays at the Mt. Milligan worksite or office in Mackenzie 8:30 am to 4:00 pm Phone: to be announced All messages can be left at the phone number and email listed for McLeod Lake Indian Band

Email: mwilliams@mlib.ca

Mt. Milligan Opportunities If you are a McLeod Lake Band Member and would like the opportunity to have an interview with Mt. Milligan. Please contact Misty to discuss the opportunities available. Mt.

Milligan suggests to anyone considering returning to school for technical training to consider the “Instrumentation” course offered at BCIT. It is the leading training program

that will secure your future with any organization in the mining or mill industry.

Please forward your resume if these interest you.

Every person is a success if they put their mind to it!

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A VERY BIG THANK YOU TO ALL THE FOLLOWING COMPANIES FOR SUPPORTING OUR ANNUAL CAREER FAIR

Thank you Jodie Ware, Anita Vallee, Nicole Thomas and Valerie O’Connal for assisting with the event

Thank you McLeod Lake Indian Band Elder’s coordinator – Kathy Parkinson for the fabulous Indian Taco’s

Way to Kyley Jackson for attending the career fair!

Teck Coal College of New Caledonia Work BC UNBC Lomak Bulk Carriers Corp Conoco Phillips Canada Transcanada East Fraser Fibre BC Hydro Mt. Milligan Mackenzie Fibre Mgmt Conifex Mackenzie Resource District Chamber of Commerce Canadian Forces Core Recruitment AIMHI District of Mackenzie Obrien Training Ecofor Consulting Immigration & Multicultural Society NLC Anglo American Peace River op PGNAETA Mackenzie Pulp Duz Cho Construction LP Duz Cho Logging RCMP Aboriginal Business Development Center United Way of Northern BC BC Aboriginal Mine Training Assoc.

Walter Energy Industry Training Authority Northern Health Clear Stream Energy Services Spectra Energy

Way to go Adrien Voyer – Adrian won two door prizes at the career fair.

90 students participated in the Education Passport; 5 completed the passport and won gift cards for their participation.

A huge THANK YOU!!!! To the MLIB Forestry Crew for your help with the set-up and take down for the event

Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

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Thanks to everyone who helped cleaning up!!

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M L I B S O C I A L & H E A LT H D E P A R T M E N T S Quarterly Reports

Name: Nicole Thomas Date: October 2013 Position: Infant & Family Development Worker

Upcoming Events: Bringing Tradition Home Aboriginal Parenting in Today's World Program Highlights: The program is designed upon traditional values but relies on the input and expertise of individual knowledge keepers who will add their knowledge and cultural ways for the benefit of parents in their own communities.

The “Bringing Tradition Home” parenting program consists of eight 3-hour Gatherings and a final Celebration Gathering. Each Gathering is based on a traditional value and its importance in our families and community. Some of the topics include: keeping alive our connections to our culture; our responsibilities to our children; healthy child development; parenting styles; traditional childhood rituals and storytelling; the impact of colonization on parenting; and resiliency.

The values for the eight Gatherings are: Respect, Belonging, Love, Honouring, Humility, Courage, Wisdom, and Generosity.

Community Activity: Every person gets a hand, and needs to write one thing in their life they are thankful for. The hands will be put up on the tree in Gymnasium for all to see.

October 15, 2013 – 5-7pm Community Kitchen  October 29, 2013 – 6-8pm Craft Night  October 30, 2013 – 10am Pre-School/Daycare children will be coming to Band Hall for Haunted House (made by youth) and trick’or’treating at offices.  October 30, 2013 – 5:30pm Family Halloween Party (Dinner provided) - Activities: “Guess The Food Game”, “Mummy wrap”, Bobbing for apples, Costume contest, Haunted House Tour.

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JOB POSTING Tse’khene Community Development Corporation (TCDC) Manager PURPOSE OF THE POSITION The Tse’khene Community Development Corporation Manager is responsible for facilitating, promoting and ensuring community and economic development in order to secure opportunities for economic; business development and increase in member employment. The incumbent will manage the Development Corporation and will report to a Board of Directors.

SCOPE The Tse’khene Community Development Corporation (TCDC) Manager is responsible for facilitating community and economic development planning initiatives; identifying and fostering community economic development opportunities; securing funding for economic development activities and programs; assisting local organizations, businesses and individuals with establishing economic development plans and projects; and promoting the community in order to expand economic development opportunities.

RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Facilitate community and economic development planning in order to identify and establish economic development opportunities.

2. Identify opportunities for community economic development in order to develop sectors, projects and initiatives.

3. Secure funding for economic development activities and programs 4. Assist local organizations, businesses and individuals with establishing economic and community development plans, businesses and projects 5. Promote the community in order to expand economic development opportunities KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES The incumbent must have knowledge in the following areas: 1.

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3.

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Community Economic Development theories and practices Local, regional and provincial economic development potential and opportunities Financial management and analysis Economic development and business promotion An understanding of relevant municipal legislation, policies and procedures

The incumbent must maintain strict confidentiality in performing the duties of the Manager of TCDC. The incumbent must also demonstrate the following personal attributes: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

be honest and trustworthy be respectful possess cultural awareness and sensitivity be flexible demonstrate sound work ethics

As the successful applicant, you will have a minimum of XX years’ experience in economic development with excellent interpersonal skills. You must also be able to work in a fast paced environment and have a positive attitude, strong leadership skills and teamwork and communication must be an integral part of your managerial style.

Interested? Apply in confidence to: Human Resources Department McLeod Lake Indian Band General Delivery, McLeod Lake, B.C. V0J 2G0 E-Mail: hrdept@mlib.ca * Fax: 250-750-4420 Deadline date: October 21, 2013 No phone calls please. Only those short-listed for an interview will be contacted.

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McLeod Lake Indian Band Community Health Report October 2013 First Nations Health Authority: As of October 1, 2013, we are now under a new British Columbia Health Authority as opposed to a Federal Health Authority.

“The FNHA’s main priority in the short term is to ensure the seamless delivery of health services with no disruption to BC First Nations communities. This will be followed by a gradual redesign of current federal programming to better meet the needs of First Nations children, families, and communities in BC, under their direction.

BC First Nations leaders voted to endorse the creation of the FNHA and the transfer of federal health programs in services in 2011 through the ( 2011 Consensus Paper: BC First Nations Perspectives on a New First Nations Health Governance Arrangement.” http://www.fnha.ca/about/news-and-events/news/bc-first-nations-healthauthority-marks-historic-transfer-of-services-from-health-canada) What does this mean for band members? · First Nations Health Council has taken over administrative responsibilities of the Federal Government which was formerly First Nations Inuit Health. · All benefits through Non-Insured Health will remain the same. (Dental, vision, MSP coverage) · Long-term planning for improvement in health service delivery to improve health outcomes for First Nations. · No disruptions in health service delivery We are working closely with band membership to ensure ongoing approval for benefits such as medical equipment, supplies, dental and optometry coverage through Non-insured health benefits.

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McLeod Lake Indian Band Health Services: Service delivery is provided on an ongoing basis for the band membership of McLeod Lake as well as for Band Members living within BC. Services include health promotion, education, and referrals to medical specialist as well as to local health team members.

Fall weather has arrived! The McLeod Lake Health Department is gearing up to provide additional programming and supports over the fall and winter months.

Recently Tracy Baldwin and Linda Innes completed training in Advanced Tuburculosis. Training was sponsored by the BC Centre for Disease Control.

In the event of active TB cases, Tracy and Linda are trained to provide support, education and awareness to clients, family and community.

Public Health Natasha Dumont, Public Health Nurse will be in McLeod Lake on October 9th & 23rd. Please come in to speak to Natasha if you have concerns about your health.

Upcoming plans: 1. We are planning a 12 week Turkey Trot Challenge for the McLeod Lake Membership. The focus is on good nutrition, exercise and creating awareness of healthy habits. The Turkey Trot Challenge will be implemented and supported by Community Health Representative and Personal Care Aid. Activities will inlcude any and all efforts aimed at decreasing negative health benefits such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and includes walking, running, reduction of salts & sweets, weekly check-ins with Tracy or Linda.

Thanks to everyone who helped cleaning up!!

PRIZES: First and foremost, you as a stakeholder in your own health-care will reap the benefits of feeling better and feeling good about yourself. You will develop an awareness of healthy habits that improve your overall physical, spiritual and mental well-being.

Along with the benefits you will reap for your personal health, you will be entered into weekly draws for gift cards, as well as monthly draws provided you actively participate in the Health Turkey Trot Challenge.

START DATE: October 9th, 2013, meet at the Band Hall to register and ends on December 18th, 2013.

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1. AROUND THE KITCHEN TABLE: 1. Reclaiming Tradition, Empowering Women & Building Community

October 22-25th, 2013, Linda Innes, CHR and Nicole Thomas, Infant Development worker will be attending training in Vancouver sponsored by Chee-Mamuk.

Purpose of the training will be to deliver workshops for women within McLeod Lake. Chee Mamuk trains a team of women from the community to run sessions on healthy selfesteem, healthy sexuality and drugs & alcohol. This program is designed to incorporate the traditional Tsekene’ cultural activities, crafts, traditional foods, and great conversations into each sessions. Program will commence the first week of November 2013 and run for six weeks.

2. October 18th, 2013

There will be the first of a series of workshop provided by the Northern HIV & Health Education department at the McLeod Lake Band Hall.

Workshop components to include: Personal Power, Who Am I?, Increasing Self Esteem and Health Promotion BINGO.

3. FLU VACCINE CLINIC: November 13th, 2013 from 10:00 am to 1:00 PM

Thanks to everyone who helped cleaning up!!

4. National Addictions Awareness Week. November 18th to 22nd, 2013

November 18th, 2013 is the next tentative date for follow-up workshop through the Northern HIV/Health Education on Codependency & Unpacking Back Packs – Healing from/letting go of the past

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McLeod Lake Tse’khene Elders Program September 13-17, 2013 we took fabulous trip to the Kwadacha Nation.

Four Elders were able to attend: Josie Tylee, Georgina Chingee, Lawrence & Agnes Solonas We had a very energetic and friendly bus driver Jane, who very courageously took us on the journey. The beautiful scenery was breathtaking!

It was definitely a trip to remember.

We send a very warm MUSSI-CHO to the Kwadacha Elders, Susan McCook, Kathy Poole and Donny & Hellen Van Somer for their hospitality.

Left: Group photo at the Kwadacha Nation Administration Building Above: Kwadacha Wolf, he is a pet but very shy Thank you to Marc Klijnsmit for being our ‘Paparazzi’ on the trip, and taking these wonderful photo’s!

The Elders recently had a meeting to discuss the Tse’khene Language. It is evident how important it is to preserve the language for the future generations. There will be a ‘Tse’khene Language Committee’ starting up, watch for invitations to the upcoming meetings. We invite ALL McLeod Lake members to be part of this committee. This committee will facilitate the language teachings, and provide guidance on how to preserve the language.

Prepared for you by Kathy Parkinson Elder Coordinator Cell: 250-997-7727 Email: kparkinson@mlib.ca

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Tse’khene Language Committee Meeting Thursday October 24, 2013 4:00-7:00pm (Dinner Provided) Elders House, McLeod Lake We are looking for people who are interested in joining the ‘Tse’khene Language Committee’.

This Committee will provide guidance on how to facilitate language teachings and preservation of the language in the community. There is a great need and interest to start teachings in the community on a regular basis; for both adults & children.

We welcome ALL community members to join the committee to provide a broad spectrum of input to the program.

This initiative is being run through the Elders Program, for questions please contact Kathy Parkinson/Elder Coordinator at 250-750-4617 or email kparkinson@mlib.ca Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.

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Tse’khene Dictionary Revitalization Meeting Friday October 25, 2013 10:00am-2:00pm (Lunch Provided) Elders House, McLeod Lake We are looking for Fluent & Semi-Fluent speakers to help in the revitalization of the Tse’khene Dictionary.

It has been noted that the Tse’khene Dictionary needs to be revitalized to make edits and additions to the current document. It is very important that we provide this tool for the future generations to have.

Please join us, this will be a lengthy process with meetings being held 1-2 times a month until the project is completed.

This initiative is being run through the Elders Program, for questions please contact Kathy Parkinson/Elder Coordinator at 250-750-4617 or email kparkinson@mlib.ca

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Well September seemed to fly by quickly! Regular school programming started with Mondays for 5-9yrs old, Wednesdays 13-up, Fridays all ages and Sundays as a family day. Programming Mon-Fri is 4pm-7pm and the last Sundays of every month will consist of a family day at the band hall the youth department will be putting on a different family activity once a month!

We kicked it off with a back to school pizza party on Sept 6th and on Sept 20th the youth took part in a volleyball camp facilitated by Leon Erickson. We ended our last Friday of September with a popcorn fundraiser around the office and the youth were able to scoop a few dollars and look forward to doing it again!

Homework nights are Mondays and Wednesdays.

October now is here and we have lots going on in the next few weeks, I would like to say what a wonderful job our youth have done at this past youth fundraiser at the elder’s bingo held on Oct 6/13 at the band hall. All the youth that attended did a remarkable job in participating from setting up, bringing a baked goodie from home to sell and using manners during their sale transactions! A “BIG” thank you to all for a job well done!

The youth department would like to let you all know that there will be “NO YOUTH” on Sunday Oct 13/13 and Monday Oct 14/13 in lieu of Thanksgiving and will resume Tuesday Oct 15/13.

A Thanksgiving Community Dinner will be held on Oct 11th that the youth will be taking part in serving the elders. Pumpkin Carving will take place October 21st, last but not least a Halloween party taking place October 30th @ 5pm-7pm with a variety of games and prizes and also our one for the books Haunted House that our older youth have been busy coming up with amazing twists and turns that they want to add into our scary tour.

The youth department would like to wish everyone a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

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More Horoscopes on Page 18

The Traveling Feather is published up to 12 times a year for and by members of The McLeod Lake Indian Band. The next issue of The Traveling Feather will be available sometime September/October 2013.