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First Nations hats on display in photo gallery PAGE 20 Vol. 39 No. 40
Lingman Lake cleanup still ‘wait and see’ for Sachigo PAGE 13
NAN needs bigger role in transportation and housing PAGE 3 9,300 copies distributed $1.50
November 29, 2012
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Northern Ontario’s First Nation Voice since 1974
Following a path to the trades Matawa grads take first steps towards career in carpentry Rick Garrick Wawatay News
Constance Lake’s Arnold Sutherland is aiming for a career in carpentry after graduating from the Manitoba Regional Council Pre-Apprenticeship Level One Carpentry Training course. “In about four years I hope to be a journeyman carpenter,” Sutherland said. “I’m supposed to start work right away (back home). Maybe I’ll take other programs like cabinetmaking just to build a wider array of skills.” Sutherland was one of seven graduates from the Matawa First Nations who were celebrated by Kiikenomaga Kikenjigewen Employment and Training Services (KKETS) during a Nov. 22 graduation ceremony at Place Louis Riel in Winnipeg. Four graduates from Tataskweyak Cree Nation (Split Lake) in Manitoba were also celebrated during the ceremony. See Matawa grads on page 10
Rick Garrick/Wawatay News
Seven Matawa First Nations members graduated from the first step on their way to becoming a journeyman carpenter during a ceremony in Winnipeg Nov. 23. The seven Matawa graduates were joined by four Tataskweyak Cree members during the course and the graduation ceremony. Elsie MacDonald of KKETS said the training program, in which Matawa provided support for the students to live and study in Winnipeg, is something that the tribal council is considering using again in the future. The grads plan to bring their skills back to their communities as they work towards earning 900 hours on the job, a requirement for the next step on their apprenticeship journey.
Moose River water levels reach historic lows Lenny Carpenter Wawatay News
Earl Cheechoo of Moose Factory remembers a time when the water levels on the Moose River and its tributaries were high enough that hunters could travel with relative ease. “The water levels would really come up,” the deputy chief for Moose Cree First Nation said. “There’s a Cree word we would say: mooshka-hun. It means the rivers are very good and it’s a good time to go hunting.” In the past, the Moose River and its tributaries were a crucial aspect of life for the Moose Cree people. For the Moose Cree, as for the other Cree people along the coast, the waterways were the main mode of transportation as the people moved with the seasons, going inland to their camps in the winter and heading out to the bay in the spring. Even after settlements were established, the rivers continued to be an important part of life, as hunters
and trappers would climb aboard canoes to go hunting or check their traplines. But in recent years, community members have noticed the water levels on the rivers have lowered. Moose Cree Chief Norm Hardisty Jr. said the change has affected one of the cultural practices of the community: moose hunting. “We’ve had a lot of difficulty in moving up the tributaries, the rivers,” Hardisty said. “It’s too dry to go up with canoes.” Cheechoo said community members have reported having a hard time going up river, often ending up turning around to return home. It is a trend that continues to get worse each year, Hardisty said. “So you’ll find a lot of people get on the train and hunt in other areas down south,” he said. Those that do hunt on the rivers wait until rainfall in October to head out. Cheechoo said he was able to go upriver when the region received rainfall as a part of the waning Hurricane Sandy passed over the region.
Paul Lantz/Special to Wawatay News
A new sandbar (foreground) appeared in front of Moosonee following the breakup of Moose River last spring while the main sandbar continues to grow each year. But the timing of rainfall is unpredictable. “You can’t just go. You can’t say I’m going to go in three weeks time. You can’t plan like that,” Cheechoo said. And as the water levels change, sandbars have emerged. They are
“popping up all over the place,” Cheechoo said. “I live along the river and there’s a completely new sandbar that came up,” he said. “Even going to Moosonee there’s a new sandbar that popped up this spring.”
The changes in water levels and emergence of sandbars are also impacting a local business that provides a crucial service to James Bay communities. Moosonee Transportation Ltd. (MTL) ferries fuel and building supplies on a barge from Moosonee to Fort Albany, Kashechewan, Attawapiskat and Fort Severn twice a year on average. But this season, MTL president Rheal Cool said the barges have had such a difficult time getting out to James Bay on Moose River that they had to bring in a tugboat from Labrador to help keep on schedule. “Where we would normally take in one tide to get out, it’s taken us two tides which is a 12-hour loss and sometimes we’ve lost 24 or 36 hours to trying to get out,” he said. The barges are capable of carrying 1,000 tonnes, but due to the water levels, the load is capped at 500 tonnes. See Moose River on page 12
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 29, 2012
Waiting on the winter roads
ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ
THIS
WEEK IN
WAWATAY
Sandy Lake kicks off dance program Outside Looking In, a national dance program that trains youth in First Nations communities in various dance styles, has started its newest program in Sandy Lake. The program already operates in the Treaty #3 communities of Lac La Croix and Onigaming. Each year the best dancers from the schools that the program operates in travel to Toronto for a national showcase. To get there, however, the youth have to be extremely dedicated to their training during the school year. Page 18
Matawa carpenters on way to journeyman status Seven Matawa First Nations members have taken the first step towards becoming journeymen carpenters. The graduates were honoured at a ceremony in Winnipeg on Nov. 23. Now that they have taken the first step, all the work that they do goes towards their final classification as a journeyman carpenter. Rick Garrick/Wawatay News
Winter finished its march across the north last week by dumping a load of snow on the north shore of Lake Superior. While some streams are still flowing, its not long until everything freezes and the winter roads open.
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Ontario minister wants to keep generic oxy out of province Despite the federal government’s decision to allow generic oxycodone in Canada, Ontario’s health minister says she will do whatever possible to keep the cheaper form of the drug out of the province. Deb Matthews said she has seen lives destroyed as a result of opiate addictions, and understands the damaging toll prescription drugs are having in First Nations communities. While she hopes Health Canada reconsiders its decision to allow generic oxy, Matthews said she is petitioning all the other provinces and territories to ban generic oxy along with Ontario so that no matter what the federal government allows, the cheap drugs will stay out of Canada. Page 3
Moose River water levels impacting hunters and trappers Low water levels on the Moose River are beginning to have an impact on hunters, trappers and barge operators in the James Bay region. This year has seen some of the lowest water levels ever noted on the river.
Top, Matawa carpentry grads celebrate. Above left, dancing in Sandy Lake. Above right, Ontario Health Minister Deb Matthews. Moose Cree First Nation chief and council are concerned that the water levels will prevent Moose Cree members from accessing places on the land that their ancestors always hunted, fished and trapped. Pages 1 and 12
Sachigo gets fund for business centre Sachigo Lake First Nation will build a small business centre in the community using nearly $500,000 provided by the federal government. The business centre will accommodate business and community organizations. Federal MP for Kenora Greg Rickford said the business centre will help Sachigo “take charge of its future.” Sachigo Lake chief Titus Tait said the centre will help his First Nation create business partnerships with the private sector while providing space for band members to pursue small business opportunities. Page 6
Fx: (204) 224-1813 Email: eshelman@mymts.net
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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NAN needs to address community housing, transportation needs
Mish house fire results in death
Deputy grand chief says private road to Ring of Fire ‘totally wrong’
Investigation ongoing
Rick Garrick Wawatay News
Transportation, resource development and housing issues were on the agenda at the Nishnawbe Aski Nation Special Chiefs Assembly, held Nov. 13-15 in Thunder Bay, and at least one deputy grand chief believes NAN has a much bigger role to play in helping communities address those issues. “NAN has to play a more direct role, especially in issues that are going to affect not only the impact on First Nations closer to the Ring of Fire, but those that are on the periphery that are also going to be receiving impacts,” said Deputy Grand Chief Les Louttit. “The Shibogama First Nations and the coastal First Nations on Hudson Bay and James Bay coast are already concerned with that development.” Louttit said the plan to subsidize a private road to the Ring of Fire mineral development area that is not accessible by area First Nations and the general public is “totally wrong.” “That cannot be allowed to happen and we will make sure as a political organization
that we pressure the government and industry that any transportation corridor that is going to go into the Ring of Fire development will have to have open access to the communities,” Louttit said. “It will be going close by Aroland, Eabametoong, Neskantaga, Marten Falls and Webequie. It doesn’t make economic sense, it doesn’t make moral sense and it’s just not going to happen that way.” Louttit also described the NAN housing and infrastructure project during the assembly. “We’re going into the second phase of the project, which is the feasibility and business plan phase for a NAN housing and infrastructure for-profit corporation,” Louttit said. “It is a business model in which we will attempt to accelerate the housing and infrastructure in the communities and leverage private sector financing, banking and all government loans or subsidies that are available to reinvest back into the corporation to build more houses, to renovate more houses and to put in more infrastructure in the communities.”
Rick Garrick/Wawatay News
Les Louttit, deputy grand chief, says a private road to the Ring of Fire that does not connect to First Nations in the region would be ‘totally wrong.’ Louttit said there is currently units) using Canada Mortgage an estimated backlog of 5,000 and Housing Corporation costhomes needed across NAN ing model is equivalent to about territory based on Aboriginal $1.2 billion,” Louttit said. “That Affairs and Northern Develop- excludes infrastructure such as roads, hydro, water and sewer, ment Canada website data. “Five-thousand (housing which is another $2 billion
when you add that on.” Louttit said many of the communities are also running out of subdivision space to build new homes on. “Once we get the (NAN housing and infrastructure for-profit corporation) start up rolling, then we are going to engage some professional planners and engineers and architects to determine the exact requirements for the capacity of each community to build,” Louttit said. Louttit said the housing conditions in some communities are “terrible.” “This should not be happening in this day and age,” Louttit said. “We all know the situation on (housing) in Attawapiskat. Attawapiskat exists in every NAN community — overcrowding, poor construction, poor land, materials below standard.” Louttit said there is a need to upgrade all the standards, to do proper construction methods, to have good project management and to have good planning. “A lot of communities in northern Canada have really nice homes, and that’s possible in the NAN territory,” Louttit said. “I’m looking forward to that challenge.”
Rick Garrick Wawatay News
A Mishkeegogamang house fire has claimed the life of one person. Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service confirmed one fatality in the Nov. 23 residential fire, which was reported at about 3 a.m. at 159 Sandy Rd. in the road-access community located about 315 kilometres northwest of Thunder Bay. Human remains were located at the scene, with a post-mortem examination to be conducted at Kenora Lake of the Woods Hospital. The identification of the deceased is not available at this time and no other injuries or deaths have been reported. The NAPS North West Region Crime Unit and detachment assisted by the Ontario Provincial Police North West Region Forensic Identification Unit based out of Kenora and the Ontario Fire Marshall are investigating the residential fire. Further details will be released as they become available.
Ontario minister ‘profoundly’ disappointed on federal oxy decision Shawn Bell Wawatay News
Ontario’s health minister says her government is “exploring all options” to keep generic oxycodone out of the province, in light of the recent federal government decision to allow generic versions of the drug to be sold in Canada. Deb Matthews told Wawatay News that she was “deeply and profoundly disappointed” with federal health minister Leona Aglukkaq’s decision to allow generic oxycodone in Canada. “This was an oppor tunity to really address a problem,” Matthews said. “I’m very, very disappointed.” On Nov. 19, Health Canada Minister Leona Aglukkaq told her provincial and territorial counterparts that she would not politically interfere with the regulatory approval
“Prescription drug abuse is a problem everywhere, but the toll is particularly devastating in First Nation communities. Some of the most passionate arguments I have heard have come from chiefs and leaders.” – Deb Matthews, Ontario Health Minister
process for a generic form of OxyContin. The decision allows drug manufacturers to develop a generic form of the drug once the patent for it expires on Nov. 25. The federal government then
approved six pharmaceutical companies on Nov. 26 to produce the drug. Meanwhile the Ontario government proposed new regulations to limit the use of generic oxycontin unless it is tamper resistant. In a press release the government said the regulations will help “limit access to easily abused generic oxycontin, protecting patients and those who may be addicted to prescription drugs.” Matthews has also written a letter to other provincial and territorial ministers informing them of the steps Ontario is taking, in the hopes that other health ministers across the country will follow suit and help limit access to generic oxycontin. “Obviously the best thing would have been for the feds to say no,” Matthews said. “This is a national problem that requires a national solution.”
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First Nations leaders, police organizations, doctors and pharmacists have also spoken out against the federal decision to allow generic oxy in Canada. Last week Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler said the decision was “another blow” to northern First Nations. “With OxyContin clones on the market, it just means more drug flow to the north,” Fiddler said. Nishnawbe-Aski Police Services (NAPS) has also chimed in, saying the federal government has to “take the leadership role it was elected to do” in the prevention of generic oxy in Canada. In a media release, NAPS said OxyContin severely impacts the First Nations it serves, where addiction rates are much higher on a per capita basis than in southern Ontario. This year alone, NAPS has
seized illicit OxyContin drugs valued at over $1 million. “The market for these drugs in northern communities is so lucrative that criminal organizations from the Greater Toronto Area are targeting the NAN communities,” the release said. To add insult, the federal government has informed NAPS that it will no longer fund the Police Officer Recruitment Fund (PORF) after March of 2013. Eleven NAPS officers are funded under PORF including a drug enforcement officer. NAPS said allowing generic versions of OxyContin to be produced and “ultimately be illegally distributed to our communities” while simultaneously reducing NAPS funding and its ability to do drug enforcement “flies in the face of logic.” Matthews said the voices of First Nations leaders across Ontario have been loud and
clear on the need for action on prescription drug abuse (PDA). “(PDA) is a problem everywhere, but the toll is particularly devastating in First Nation communities,” she said. “Some of the most passionate arguments I have heard have come from chiefs and leaders in First Nations communities.” The health minister added that she hopes her federal counterpart changes her mind on letting generic oxy into Canada. But in the meantime, Matthews hopes other provincial and territorial ministers will follow Ontario’s lead in limiting the sale of generic versions of the drugs in their jurisdictions. “We will continue to explore all the options,” Matthews said. “I feel I owe it to all the people who have stepped forward to share their stories to do everything in my power to limit access to this drug.”
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 29, 2012
ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ
From the Wawatay archives 16-5th Avenue North P.O. Box 1180 Sioux Lookout, ON P8T 1B7 Serving the First Nations in Northern Ontario since 1974. Wawatay News is a politically independent weekly newspaper published by Wawatay Native Communications Society.
ᓂᐢᑕᑦ ᑲᑭᒪᑕᓄᑲᑌᐠ 1974 ᐁᐅᒋᐊᓄᑲᑌᑭᐣ ᑭᐧᐁᑎᓄᐠ ᐅᐣᑌᕑᐃᔪ ᑕᐃᑦᔑᑫᐧᐃᓇᐣ. ᑕᓱᓂᔓᐱᒥᑯᓇᑲ ᐅᔑᒋᑲᑌ ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᓂᔑᓂᓂᐧᐃ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ ᒥᓇ ᑲᐧᐃᐣ ᐅᓇᔓᐧᐁᐧᐃ ᑲᓇᐧᐊᐸᒋᑫᐧᐃᓂᐠ ᒋᐃᔑ ᐸᐸᒥᓯᒪᑲᐠ ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓂᑫᐧᐃᓇᐣ. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER David Neegan
Editorial Generic oxy decision wrong on all counts Shawn Bell EDITOR
T
here is a study coming out in the December 2012 edition of the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry on the abuse of prescription drugs by adolescents across the country. The study examines the prevalence of drugs such as oxycontin and percoset among young people from the ages of 12 to 17. As one part of its results, the study found that First Nations youth were twice as likely to abuse prescription drugs than non-Aboriginal youth. But First Nations youth were not the highest risk group. Inuit youth were way more likely than any other group to abuse prescription drugs. According to the study, Inuit youth abuse prescription drugs at rates more than three times that of non-Aboriginal youth, and nearly double the rate of First Nations youth. Considering that the results of the study were leaked to media in August, and widely published in the newspapers of Nunavut, there is a very good chance Canada’s Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq, the MP for Nunavut, knows about the findings. Which makes her recent decision to allow the production and sale of generic OxyContin in Canada even more concerning. In normal situations, we should not expect a federal minister to put the interests of one or two ethnic groups above the interests of the country as a whole. In her role as Health Minister Aglukkaq should not be making decisions based solely on what is good for Inuit people. But the issue of prescription drug abuse is not a normal situation. And Aglukkaq is not a normal minister. As the most prominent Inuit politician this country has ever seen, Aglukkaq should understand better than most of her peers the issues facing Aboriginal people in Canada. She should serve as a voice of reason on behalf of Aboriginal people when cabinet discusses directions and decisions that affect the country. And she should ensure that, at the very least, her own department is doing things in the right way when it comes to Aboriginal peoples’ issues. Aglukkaq has come under fire from a wide range of stakeholders for her decision to allow generic oxycontin in Canada. Police chiefs, doctors and pharmacists have all chimed in, arguing that Health Canada was wrong to allow generic oxy to be sold here.
Provincial health ministers, led by Ontario’s Deb Matthews, had previously requested that Health Canada delay approving the generic versions of the drugs to give the provinces time to prepare. Their request was ignored, and they are understandably upset. Matthews told Wawatay News last week that she was “profoundly disappointed” with Aglukkaq’s decision, and that Ontario will examine all its options to keep generic oxycontin out of the province. “I feel I owe it to all those people who have stepped forward to share their stories to do everything in my power to limit access to this drug,” Matthews said. Of course many of the stories Matthews cites of how prescription drugs are devastating lives have come from non-Aboriginal people. Addictions are not a race problem, but a human one. But the health minister does acknowledge that some of the “most passionate” arguments she has heard against allowing generic oxycontin in Canada have come from First Nations leaders. The dire effects of prescription drugs in First Nations communities has been made loud and clear to her, and she seems to understand. Which raises the question of why Aglukkaq seems not to have heard and understood? Given her background of growing up in Nunavut, Aglukkaq should understand the realities of life in isolated communities with high unemployment and high levels of poverty. She should have her eyes and ears tuned to the issues facing Aboriginal people across the country. She should be a champion for her people, and all Aboriginal people in Canada. Instead she has made a decision that flies in the face of the concerns of Aboriginal communities as well as the realities of prescription drug abuse. Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler said last week that Aglukkaq’s decision to allow generic oxy in Canada will mean more drugs flowing to the communities of the north. He said that in the face of the extreme levels of addictions that First Nations face, extreme decisions from the federal government are needed. He described Aglukkaq’s decision as “another blow” to First Nations. The sad part of the story is that by choosing to ignore the social effects of prescription drug abuse in making a political decision, and by choosing to ignore the calls of First Nations leaders across the nation, Canada’s most prominent Aboriginal politician is the one leveling the latest blow to Aboriginal people.
Wawatay News archives
Pikangikum, October 1983.
WAWATAY BOOK REVIEW
Parting is not sweet sorrow Joyce Atcheson BOOK REVIEW
T
o know a departure is coming hurts. Emily was given to her grandparents when she was a year old. Oh, she has a mom, but her mom is never around, she never sees her and when mom says she’ll be there she doesn’t keep her
her heart the squeezing is so intense she can’t breathe. It’s New Years Eve when these young people meet in the hospital and spend the evening together, getting to know their deepest secrets. An excellent youth read filled with surprise, pain, and reality.
word. Emily’s grandfather passed a few years ago and now gram is in the hospital and she won’t be returning home. Emily’s commitment to her gram means she loses contact with her friends; loneliness stalks her through silent nights and take-out meals in front of a blaring TV. Alex has parents who want the best for him but they aren’t the ones living in his body, a body invaded by leukemia. His sister, Lucy, only lets her feelings reach to below her heart; if they reach
Before We Go -- Any Bright, (Red Deer Press, Markham, ON; 2012; ISBN 978-0-88995-4717); 231 pages; $12.95)
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER David Neegan davidn@wawatay.on.ca
ART DIRECTOR Roxann Shapwaykeesic, RGD roxys@wawatay.on.ca
TRANSLATORS Vicky Angees vickya@wawatay.on.ca
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Matthew Bradley matthewb@wawatay.on.ca
CONTRIBUTORS Xavier Kataquapit Daniel Tait Joyce Atcheson Stephanie Wesley
CONTACT US Sioux Lookout Office Hours: 8:30-5:00 CST Phone: ....................737-2951 Toll Free: .....1-800-243-9059 Fax: ...............(807) 737-3224 .............. (807) 737-2263
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EDITOR Shawn Bell shawnb@wawatay.on.ca WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER Rick Garrick rickg@wawatay.on.ca WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER Lenny Carpenter lennyc@wawatay.on.ca
SALES MANAGER James Brohm jamesb@wawatay.on.ca CIRCULATION Adelaide Anderson reception@wawatay.on.ca
Guest editorials, columnists and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the views of Wawatay News.
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NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ
COMMENTARY
Chase Aden, a diamond in the northern rough Xavier Kataquapit UNDER THE NORTHERN SKY
Recently I was talking to a friend of mine, Cindy Giguere, who is a member of Matachewan First Nation in northeastern Ontario. Actually, she is a Wabun Health community health nurse who has worked for many years assisting members of Matachewan First Nation. I was pleasantly surprised when she told me about her daughter’s success in the music industry. Her daughter, known on stage as Chase Aden, has been performing as a singer/songwriter in and around Toronto for a few years. The big news is that she played the famous El Mocambo nightclub in the city recently. Fans, family and friends filled the historic nightclub to see and hear Chase perform. This is the venue that has hosted world known acts like the Rolling Stones, Marilyn Monroe, U2, Moxy, Elvis Costello, The Ramones, The Rolling Stones, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Tom Cochrane and Red Rider, Blondie, Meat Loaf, Jimi Hendrix, Queens of the Stone Age, Shakin’ Natives and LimeBox. In a recent chat with Chase, I discovered that she has been working tirelessly to pursue her dream in music and she is thrilled that all of her efforts are paying off. She was quick to point out that she considers herself a work in progress and that it will take a lot of dedication and effort to fulfil her dreams. Chase spoke about the importance of hav-
ing a strong, loving family environment where she was surrounded by music from the time she was a child. Her dad, known as Giger, who is a musician has always been her mentor and biggest fan. Too often we hear that there is little support for a young person wanting to pursue the arts as a career but thankfully both Giger and Cindy were there for Chase when she decided she was going to do her best to make her dreams come true as a performer and singer. Born in Timmins and raised in Iroquois Falls, Chase is like one of those diamonds they are finding in the rugged northern wilderness. Not only is she a talented singer/ songwriter and performer she is also very beautiful and has an inner strength that comes from the northern wilderness experience. Although she describes her music as pop, Chase draws from an influence pallet that includes the Eagles, Elton John, ABBA and the Carpenters just to name a few. Up north she was part of a cover band that opened for acts like April Wine and Trooper. Although she plays guitar and piano her main instrument is her voice. One thing she realized was that it was necessary to make the move to the big city to realize her dream and she left her beloved north to record and perform as part of her struggle to compete in what is sometimes a very dog eat dog industry. She got a lot of experience by performing live and recording. People reacted to her music positively and that gave her the drive to continue. She gives thanks for her producer Doug Romanow for providing guidance and helping her develop as an artist. Chase has also
Submitted photo
been given strong support by her boyfriend Jaye and faithful friends and fans. It was so exciting to chat with Chase as her enthusiasm is contagious. She is really busy these days recording her album to be released early in 2013 and she is working hard with some of the best in the business to develop the creative for her project which will also feature a video. Right now her goal is to get
her songs out there to the public and develop a broader fan base. By the way, she sang the National Anthem at the GM Centre in Oshawa to open for the Oshawa Power in a National Basketball League game on Nov. 15. I take great pride and joy to share the story of this upcoming northern star with you and I hope you give her lots of support as she moves forward to make her dreams come
LETTERS Editors Note: This is an open letter written by Anishinabek Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee to Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Dear Prime Minister Harper: Over the past couple of years it has become increasingly apparent to the Anishinabek First Nations that the federal government is on a path to dissolving First Nation treaty and inherent rights through infringing legislation. We have received copies of several letters from First Nation organizations like the Assembly of First Nations, the Chiefs of Ontario and other political organizations across the country, opposing federal legislation that impacts First Nations. At the Anishinabek Nation we have sent numerous letters and presented our reasons for objection to the various federal standing committees on legislation that the Government of Canada seems determined to ram through parliament. During the Harmonized Sales Tax legislation process, First Nations in Ontario unified to oppose the federal and provincial objective to combine taxation policies and eliminate the provincial retail sales tax exemptions for First Nation citizens. The very next year the federal Ministry of Revenue began taking First Nation, working-class citizens to court on income tax policies, despite their treaty right not to be taxed within their own territories. Nearly every legislation or policy impacting First Nations which the federal government has introduced over the past couple of years will either eliminate First Nation treaty rights or minimize the Crown’s treaty and fiduciary responsibilities
true. I am a big fan as her voice really has such a strong and pure quality to it and you can see for yourself by going to her website at www.chaseaden.com where you can also find her Twitter and Facebook links. Chase is on her way and hopefully will be coming to a venue around the corner from you in the near future. Any community would benefit by her positive and open message of hope in song.
Find to First Nations in Canada. I cannot make myself any more clear: all lands and resources in Canada belong to First Nations’ people and no amount of legislation will take that fact away. Some of the Bills we oppose include: Bill S-2 (Matrimonial Real Property), Bill S-6 (First Nations Election Act), Bill C-10
The reputation of Canada is darkened by First Nation realities in Canada. Let us work together to make Canada a better country be engaging in meaningful dialogue that does not include a hidden agenda to assimilate First Nations. - Patrick Madahbee
(Crimes Bill), Bill S-8 (Safe Drinking Water), Bill C-27 (Financial Transparency Act), Bill C-45 (Jobs and Growth Act, specifically sections amending the Indian Act and Fisheries), and Bill C-428 (Private Member’s Bill, specifically to amend the Indian Act). I wish to put it on record again that the Anishinabek First Nations oppose, reject and dismiss each and every bill that encroaches on First Nations’ treaty and inherent rights. Making sweeping changes that will impact First Nations (through legislation) without inclusion of First Nations in the development of these bills is contrary to a Nation-to-Nation relationship. The resolve of our citizens will be known across the country and we will bring national attention to the colonial approach Canada continues
to push for in relation to First Nation territories and First Nation citizens’ rights. First Nations have a unique legal and historical relationship with Canada as established through treaties and alliances during times of war and peace. We have remained a loyal ally over many decades, only to watch our children get siphoned into residential schools and our land exploited for the betterment of Canada and to the detriment of First Nations. As the Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation I have limited authority as mandated by our leadership. However I am in a position to remind Canada that First Nations will not sit quietly while funding to education is frozen, funding to health is cut, and land claims are held hostage to surrender clauses while mining companies are fast- tracked to exploit our lands in order to keep Canada listed as one of the wealthiest countries in the world. First Nations socio-economic indicators continue to represent human rights issues comparable to those of many oppressed populations throughout the world. I cannot, nor would I ever attempt to, control or stop First Nation citizens if they ever decide to have their voices heard in a free and democratic society. The reputation of Canada is darkened by First Nation realities in Canada. Let us work together to make Canada a better country by engaging in meaningful dialogue that does not include a hidden agenda to assimilate and municipalize First Nations through oppressive legislation and policies. Respectfully, Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee Grand Council Chief Anishinabek Nation
in these communities Aroland Atikokan Attawapiskat Balmertown Batchewana Bearskin Lake Beaverhouse Big Grassy Big Island Big Trout Lake Brunswick House Calstock Cat Lake Chapleau Cochrane Collins Couchiching Couchiching Deer Lake Dinorwic Dryden Ear Falls Emo Flying Post Fort Albany Fort Frances Fort Hope Fort Severn Geraldton Ginoogaming Grassy Narrows Gull Bay Hornepayne Hudson Iskatewizaagegan
Kapuskasing Kasabonika Kashechewan Keewaywin Kenora Kingfisher Lake Kocheching Lac La Croix Lac Seul, Kejick Bay Lake Nipigon Lansdowne Long Lake Mattagammi Michipicoten Migisi Sahgaigan Missanabie Mobert Moose Factory Moosonee Muskrat Dam Musselwhite Mine Naicatchewenin Naotikamegwanning Nestor Falls Nicikousemenecaning North Spirit Lake Northwest Angle #33 Northwest Angle #37 Ochiichagwe’Babigo’ Ining Ogoki Pic River Osnaburgh Pawitik Pays Plat Peawanuck
Pickle Lake Pikangikum Poplar Hill Rainy River Red Lake Red Rock Rocky Bay Sachigo Lake Sandy Lake Saugeen Sault Ste. Marie Savant Lake Seine River Shoal Lake Sioux Lookout Sioux Narrows Slate Falls Stanjikoming Stratton Summer Beaver Taykwa Tagamou Timmins Thunder Bay Wabaskang Wabigoon Wahgoshing Wapekeka Washaganish Wauzhusk Onigum Wawakapewin Weagamow Lake Webequie Whitedog Whitesand Wunnimun Lake
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Sachigo Lake’s new 12,400 square foot business centre is about half done. The community is now waiting on the opening of the winter road to get the rest of the supplies needed to finish the building.
Sachigo Lake waiting on winter road to finish business centre Shawn Bell Wawatay News
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Construction on Sachigo Lake First Nation’s $3.6 million business centre is set to take a break while the community waits for the cold weather that will signal the opening of its winter road. While work on the 12,400 square foot building is over half finished, construction materials have run low due to last year’s shortened winter road season. That has left the contractors with no choice but to take a two-month hiatus, waiting for the opening of the winter road, which usually happens sometime in January. “We’re hoping for a good winter road season, so we can bring all the rest of the materials in this winter,� said Sachigo Lake Chief Titus Tait. “We can’t fly it in, because it would add costs to the project.� If all goes well with the winter road season and the remaining supplies can be brought in, work will continue right away and the community should be ready to hold a grand opening of the new business centre in June 2013, Tait said. The chief said the centre will help Sachigo Lake create employment opportunities and business partnerships with the
private sector. “A modern and efficient business centre will assist the First
“A modern and efficient business centre will assist the First Nation in diversifying its economy and provide commercial space for band members to pursue small business opportunities in the community.� -Sachigo Lake Chief Titus Tait
Nation in diversifying its economy and provide commercial space for band members to pursue small business opportunities in the community,� Tait said. Once opened, the business centre will host offices for the band’s council and administration, its economic development and health and social services departments, and community organizations such as Tikanagan Child and Family Services. It will also feature a foursuite hotel, a restaurant and the community’s post office, as well as an economic development incubation office with informa-
tion and space for band members who want to start their own small business. Sachigo Lake First Nation has invested $1.7 million into the project. The remainder of the funds came from federal and provincial grant applications. Kenora MP Greg Rickford announced last week the federal government’s $490,000 contribution to the project, money that came from FedNor. Rickford said in a press release that the money will help “strengthen and develop the local economy.� “More importantly, this initiative will empower Sachigo Lake First Nation to take charge of its future,� Rickford said. FedNor minister Tony Clement added that the business centre will help the community partner with industry working in the area. “(The funding) will provide the Sachigo Lake First Nation with the infrastructure it needs to attract new investment to the area and enable existing businesses to grow and prosper,� said Clement. “It will also help position the community as a base of operations for the region’s mining sector and assist in pursuing opportunities in the tourism, forestry, energy and service sectors.�
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NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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Weagamow dealing with bed bugs Rick Garrick Wawatay News
Weagamow has hired three people to deal with bed bugs in two homes in the community. “We even had one of the EHOs (environmental health officers) from Sioux Lookout come here to do a presentation on the radio regarding the bed bug problem,” said Weagamow Councillor Paul Johnup. Johnup said the three workers have been working on the two houses for the past weekand-a-half using vacuum cleaners and a set of protective gear.
“Once you notice bed bugs, you (should) try to work on it right away.” - Paul Johnup
“With the first house they worked on, they had to take all the mattresses and all the belongings of that individual to the garbage dump,” Johnup said. “They were full of bed bugs.” Although the workers kept cleaning the house, Johnup said the EHO indicated the house was “really infested with bed bugs, even in the walls.” “So (the residents) were told to move to another house,” Johnup said. “Maybe we’ll use a steamer for that house.” Johnup said the EHO suggested the use of a steam cleaner to get rid of the bed bugs in that house. Johnup also picked up information on steamers from a Mishkeegogamang councillor he talked to in Sioux Lookout. Mishkeegogamang had used steamers during a bed bug outbreak this past winter. “(The three workers) worked on another house and that house is not too bad,” Johnup said. “They have it under control now.” Johnup said the community has been provided with information on bed bugs, including
how they migrate with people in their luggage or on their shoes or clothing, through community radio station broadcasts. Bed bugs are parasitic insects that feed on blood. Although bed bugs were mostly eradicated in the 1940s, they have increased in prevalence since 1995. Health Canada has posted a bed bug note on its website stating that bed bugs can be found everywhere from homeless shelters to five-star hotels to single family dwellings to public transportation. The note said anyone could get an infestation of bedbugs, which does not indicate a lack of cleanliness. “The people in our community have been informed and made aware of the bed bugs and what they can do to try to alleviate the problem if they start noticing them,” Johnup said. Johnup said there had previously been a bed bug outbreak in some other houses in the community, but those residents had dealt with the bed bugs on their own. “Once you notice bed bugs, you (should) try to work on it right away,” Johnup said. “That’s what those other homeowners this past summer did. They noticed the bed bugs and worked on it right away.” Johnup found some information on getting rid of bed bugs on the Internet, which suggested the vacuuming of crevices and cracks, the interior of electrical plugins and light switches and even the back of picture frames. “Once you do that, you start using caulking also,” Johnup said, to plug up any crevices or cracks in the home. Johnup said some people have also used bug sprays and household cleaners to deal with bed bugs. “One of the homeowners here, I heard her talking on the radio, said she used baby powder,” Johnup said. “She just put (baby powder) on the cracks of the house inside there — suffocated them, eh.”
Editor’s Note: The following information comes from the Health Canada website: Physical methods of controlling bedbugs include steam cleaning, vacuuming, heating, freezing, washing and throwing out items. Steam cleaning should be done before vacuuming, as the steam will flush any bedbugs not killed out of hiding. Heat treatments should be left to the professionals.
Steaming, washing and throwing out items - Infested (but intact) mattresses, upholstery and plush items that cannot be washed with hot water and detergent should be steam cleaned. Bedbugs die at 50°C and steam cleaners generally emit steam at a temperature of at least 100°C. Dry steam or low vapour steamers are better because they leave behind less moisture. Steam will only kill the bedbugs that it reaches, so move the steam cleaner slowly to maximize depth. Avoid excess moisture, which could lead to mould. - Putting small items in the freezer or outside is sometimes effective. However, freezing temperatures must be kept for a prolonged period (4 days of consistent cold at -19°C) and may not kill all of the bedbugs. - Place small non-washable items and dry-cleanonly items in a hot dryer for 30 minutes or more. - Wash mattress pads, bedding, bed skirts, infested clothes, curtains, and so on in hot water and dry them on the hottest dryer setting. Store clean, dry items in light coloured sealed heavy duty plastic bags or plastic storage bins with secure lids to avoid infesting other areas. - Throw out any items that can’t be washed, heated or steam cleaned.
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Send letters to Santa editor@wawatay.on.ca Or fax to 807-344-3182
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NOVEMBER 29, 2012
Residential school legacy commemorated with stained glass window
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A ‘visible reminder’ of residential schools: Duncan Rick Garrick Wawatay News
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A stained glass window commemorating the legacy of Indian residential schools has been permanently installed in the Centre Block on Parliament Hill. “In 2008, on behalf all Canadians, Prime Minister Stephen Harper offered a formal apology to former students of Indian residential schools, their families and communities that acknowledged the impacts of those schools,” said Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada Minister John Duncan. “Today we continue on the path of reconciliation as we dedicate this new stained glass window. The window is a visible reminder of the legacy of Indian Residential Schools; it is also a window to a future founded on reconciliation and respect.” Designed by Métis artist Christi Belcourt and created in collaboration with Vision Art Glass Studio, the stained glass window was dedicated on Nov. 26 after the design was initially unveiled on June 11, the fourth anniversary of Harper’s apology.
Belcourt said the Giniigaaniimenaaning (Looking Ahead) design tells a story about Aboriginal people: from when ceremonies, languages, and cultural knowledge were intact; through the darkness of the residential school era; to an awakening sounded by a drum; an apology that spoke to the heart; hope for reconciliation; transformation and healing through dance, ceremony, language; and resilience into the present day. A committee of Aboriginal art experts and residential school students selected Belcourt’s work for the installation. Belcourt’s work can be found within the public collections of Submitted photo the National Gallery of Canada, the Gabriel Metis artist Christi Belcourt designed Dumont Institute, the stained glass window commemoratIndian and Inuit Art ing the residential school legagy on ParCollection, the Cana- liament’s Centre Block. dian Museum of Civilization, the Thunder Bay Art is located directly above the Gallery and the Museum of Members’ entrance to the Nature. Centre Block. The stained glass window
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NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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Wawatay file photo
Johnny Mac’s Training Centre has previously partnered with First Nations in training community members in heavy equipment, including Beatrice Childforever of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug in 2010.
Johnny Mac’s experienced in training First Nations Lenny Carpenter Wawatay News
Jim McArthur of Johnny Mac’s Training Centre said when he started the company in 1970, it initially focused on forestry equipment until a man from Wabigoon Lake introduced him to the crawler loader. “He taught me how to operate it and that’s what led me into the business,” McArthur said. Johnny Mac’s Training Centre is a Dryden-based company that provides hands-on education in truck driving and heavy equipment operations. Recognized by the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities (MTCU), Johnny Mac’s trains individuals who begin the program with not even a high school diploma. “When students leave, they are certified in First Aid, WHMIS, TDGA, knowledge on operating and maintaining five pieces of equipment and the safety courses required to work in today’s world,” McArthur said. He added that there are no written exams.
Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, Pikangikum, Slate Falls, Eagle Lake, Mishkeegogamang, Wabigoon Lake, and most recently, Bearskin Lake. McArthur believes there are a lot of skilled people in northern communities with unrealized potential. “I know people up north are very good with their hands,” he said. “They just need that push and they can be very good skilled workers.” McArthur said there will be plenty of opportunities for heavy equipment operators and truck drivers in the future in the areas of forestry and mining. He said it is difficult to track down past graduates because they are out working as far away as Los Angeles. “We have made it our goal to pick up, dust off, and reeducate anyone interested in forestry, construction, or truck driving and give them the chance at the life and career they deserve in today’s booming industries,” McArthur said. Information on Johnny Mac’s Training Centre can be found at johnnymacs.ca.
“We take on all walks of life, and we are not looking for rocket scientists,” he added.
“I know people up north are very good with their hands. They just need that push and they can be very good skilled workers.” -Jim McArthur owner/trainer at Johnny Mac’s
The training centre has partnered with several First Nations in its years of operation. In the past, McArthur said the trainees would come from the northern communities to train for months at a time, leading to reports of homesickness. But now, trainers and equipment can actually be brought to the community. “We actually go up north and don’t bring them into our society to train,” McArthur said. The training centre has previously trained students in
Physician Appreciation Declaration WHEREAS
Health and wellness are an integral part of First Nations communities; WHEREAS
WHEREAS
WHEREAS Physicians provide valued leadership, dedication and commitment to the wellbeing of First Nations; WHEREAS
WHEREAS WHEREAS WHEREAS
The First Nations leadership of the Sioux THERFORE Lookout Region recognizes BE IT RESOLVED THAT and is thankful for the dedication and commitment from all physicians who provide services to the First Nations people. THEREFORE
WHEREAS
THEREFORE the First Nations in the Sioux Lookout area hereby declare their Signed by: appreciation THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT to physicians working in the Sioux Lookout area and encourage their community members to honour the commitment and dedication of physicians. THEREFORE
Chief Clifford Bull Lac Seul First Nation
Signed Signed by: by:
Chief Clifford Bull Lac Seul First Nation Chair, Retention and Recruitment Committee Co-Chair, Chiefs Committee on Health
James Morris, Executive Director
Chief Donny Morris K itchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug Co-Chair, Chiefs Committee on Health
James Morris, Executive Director Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority
Chief Donny Morris Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug
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NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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Elsie MacDonald, KKETS president
Cecilia Echum, Ginoogaming Chief
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Seven Matawa First Nations graduates celebrated their achievements in their pre-apprenticeship carpentry course on Nov. 23 in WInnipeg. The students are preparing to take their skills back to their communities.
Matawa grads prepare to bring carpentry skills to communities Continued from page 1
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“It was really good — I learned a lot of things I didn’t know before,” Sutherland said about the pre-apprenticeship course. “There were lots of concrete forms, like 20-foot high forms and slabs. We did a lot of scaffold work too. It was really good; we learned a lot.” The first step in a four-year work and training process to become a journeyman carpenter, the pre-apprenticeship course provided the students with training for a GED (General Educational Development) as well as technical in-classroom training to enable them to qualify for exemption from level-one technical training as stipulated by the Apprenticeship Branch of Ontario and Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. “I think this (pre-apprenticeship course) works very well and I think it is going to be the new model,” said Elsie MacDonald, board president for KKETS. “It is a new way of providing training for our First Nations people because
we need innovative ways to meet the training for our community needs.” MacDonald said the preapprenticeship course provides students with training in skilled trades while at the
“It is a new way of providing training for our First Nations people because we need innovative ways to meet the training for our community needs.” - Elsie MacDonald
same time providing them with their high school equivalency through the GED component. “There is probably more training that needs to be done in the near future, even for the mining opportunities that are available in the north,” MacDonald said. MacDonald said the students were offered plenty of support during the course, including accommodations for their families while they were studying in the city.
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“I feel proud of myself,” Meshake said. “I just wanted to get my papers because I’ve been doing (carpentry) for 10 years without the paper. So now I’ve got my papers.” Meshake said it would take about three more years of work in carpentry to complete all four levels of training to become a journeyman carpenter. “I’ve got to get my 900 hours first before I get going again on my second level,” Meshake said. After the students complete the four levels, Wabasse said they have to pass an examination to get their Red Seal to be a journeyman carpenter, which allows them to work anywhere across Canada. Meshake encourages other community members to follow his path into the trades. “I would like to see more young people do this,” Meshake said about the preapprenticeship course. “I wish they had this program a long time ago. I wish I’d done this a long time ago — I’ve probably only got like 10 or 15 years left to work.”
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“And the mentoring was a great component to this program,” MacDonald said. “I’m excited about the new possibilities of how we can get our people to gain skills and even their high school diploma.” Aroland’s Romeo Meshake took advantage of the mentoring by accepting some tutoring support after he had problems with his mathematics classes early on in the preapprenticeship course. “It was kind of rough going for me on my first two months,” Meshake said. “I didn’t do math for a long time.” Doris Wabasse, senior projects officer with KKETS, said the students had daily contact with her and the other project officers. “It was hard for them so we just gave them support, even with the Elder here,” Wabasse said. “Some of the guys are already going to work right after they go home. We have jobs lined up for them already.” Meshake feels good knowing he has a job offer back in his home community to do house construction.
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NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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Using graphic novels to educate youth Author tells historical First Nations stories through modern medium Stephanie Wesley Special to Wawatay News
“I would say that I always wanted to be a writer,” said David Alexander Robertson from his home in Winnipeg, Manitoba. “It wasn’t until about 2005 that I started to consider the comic bookgraphic novel world, but I never wanted to be anything else other than a writer.” Robertson is a Swampy Cree graphic novelist. He was raised in the River Heights neighbourhood of Winnipeg. Growing up, he always read a variety of things. “Tom’s Midnight Garden was my favourite book,” he said. Comic books were always his favourite, though. “I was into Spider-Man, Batman, Superman, Avengers, all of that stuff. Anything I could get my hands on, really,” he explained when it came to comics. His favourite graphic novels, though, were Elfquest, Cosmic Odyssey, The Killing Joke, and Batman: The Cult. “I first wanted to write my own graphic novels when I decided that I wanted to help change things in terms of how
however big or small, on youth,” Robertson said. “I wanted to create positive change for our youth, for all youth. To me, the greatest change can occur from education.” Robertson and his creative partner, illustrator Scott B. Henderson, have collaborated on two graphic novel projects. The first was a four-part series called 7 Generations. It is comprised of four volumes: Stone, Scars, Ends/Begins, and The Pact. 7 Generations is a story about a young man who attempts suicide. Robertson said that the series teaches truth and history. “It’s important for that we know our history,” Robertson said. “Understanding our past allows us to see our future more clearly.” 7 Generations also encourages First Nations youth to learn their history and to heal, said Robertson. “The Elders say that what has happened to us will affect the next 7 generations,” Robertson explained. “What we do now to heal will also affect us for the next 7 generations. So we need to do more posi-
“I wanted to create positive change for our youth, for all youth. To me, the greatest change can occur from education.”
are in important part of the change that needs to happen. Sharing your story is change.” Robertson is quite busy with more stories to tell. He is currently writing for his own television show for Aboriginal People’s Television Network, and is also working on a sixbook graphic novel series on historical Aboriginal figures. Even though the graphic novel series is aimed at elementary school children in grades 4 through 6, Robertson is confident that older kids will enjoy
it too. As far as First Nations youth who are interested in becoming graphic novelists, Robertson has only encouragement for those individuals. “If that’s what you want to do, and if that’s what you love to do, then don’t let anything stop you from doing it.”
David Alexander Robertson, and the cover of his latest graphic novel 7 Generations.
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- David Alexander Robertson
Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal youth learn about Aboriginal history and culture,” he said. His first graphic novel, The Life of Helen Betty Osborne, was inspired by a real-life event that Robertson felt was important to tell. “So much of what happened to her is a microcosm of our history here in Canada,” Robertson said of Osborne. Osborne was a young Cree woman from Norway House who left her community to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. She was murdered in The Pas, a town filled with racism and segregation, in 1971 and it took sixteen years for at least one of her four killers to be brought to justice. “Something like what happened to Helen Betty Osborne was going to happen to somebody there,” Robertson said of The Pas. “It just so happened that it was her, she was the tip of the iceberg. But her spirit was a strong one.” Robertson said that he has spoken with people who feel that Osborne’s death provided a real opportunity to create change through tragedy. “You see it up there (in The Pas), in some ways but so much work needs to be done.” Robertson specializes in creating graphic novels geared towards youth for educational purposes. “I like having an impact,
tive things, and we all need to be contributing to the movement.” Robertson considers his writing as his contribution to the movement. He hopes to educate not only First Nations youth but all youth in general about residential schools in Canada and how it has impacted even second and third generation survivors. Robertson’s second graphic novel, Sugar Falls: A Residential School Story, does just that. Robertson said that residential schools are “imprinted in our youth whether they are aware of it or not.” Robertson explained that there is a link between where First Nations people are today and where they were yesterday when it comes to the impacts of residential school. “There needs to be awareness of that link by our youth,” Robertson stated. “In revealing that link, we will find that our path becomes much clearer.” As melancholy and dark as residential schools are in the history of Canada and in the story Sugar Falls, Robertson feels that there is still hope. “There has to be,” he said. “Hope comes from learning our history, but also in sharing our history. If you read Sugar Falls and then you share that story with somebody else, you
Information Recovery Advisory Service Randy Suggashie, Owner 805 May St. N., Thunder Bay, Ontario Phone: 807 622-8107 Cell: 807 630-2043
t $SFBUJOH TJNJMBS IBCJUBU BU PS OFBS UIF 1SPKFDU TJUF t $SFBUJOH TJNJMBS IBCJU JO UIF SFHJPO UIBU TVQQPSUT UIF TBNF mTI TQFDJFT t &OIBODJOH FYJTUJOH IBCJUBU BU PS OFBS UIF 1SPKFDU TJUF t &OIBODJOH FYJTUJOH IBCJUBU JO UIF SFHJPO UIBU TVQQPSUT UIF TBNF mTI TQFDJFT PS t &OIBODJOH FYJTUJOH IBCJUBU JO UIF SFHJPO UIBU TVQQPSUT B EJGGFSFOU TQFDJFT PG mTI Osisko is committed to working together with the local and Aboriginal communities to ensure the fishery in the area remains healthy. Throughout our consultation we have heard that local and Aboriginal communities are concerned with the water quality and future pit overflow at the historic Steep Rock mine. OHRG is working with government regulators to determine if there is a potential for projects aimed at rehabilitation of the Steep Rock site that will qualify as offsets. The planning process includes studies, calculations and discussions with Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Ministry of Natural Resources. We would like to hear from you! Do you know of any areas that would benefit from a fish habitat enhancement project? We welcome your feedback on projects you feel are important in the region.
OSISKO HAMMOND REEF GOLD LTD. Head Office: 1100, av. des Canadiens-de-Montréal Suite 300, P.O. Box 211 Montreal, Qc, H3B 2S2
Regional Office: 101, Goodwin Street, P.O. Box 2020 Atikokan, ON P0T 1C0
Contact: Alexandra Drapack Director Sustainable Development Hammond Reef Project
www.osisko.com
adrapack@osisko.com
info.recoveryadvisoryservice@gmail.com
Will gather information for the Nations & Native organizations “To come together, to explore, to understand and to learn.”
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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Moose River water levels at all time low Unless river dredged, barge company could shutdown service in James Bay region Continued from page 1 In the winter, the two barges are stored near the mouth of Store Creek in Moosonee, which Cool called a “natural harbour.” But last spring, crews had to work four “days and nights” to get them out. “So we’re not going up the creek (this winter),” Cool said. “We’re going to Newfoundland and unless there is a definite effort to clean the channel here, we won’t be able to come back here.” The Moose River near Moosonee and Moose Factory is an estuary where the oncoming river meets the incoming tides of the James Bay. This creates a silting effect and build-up of sedimentation, leading to sandbars, Cool said.
And while this effect is natural, Cool believes it has been “hastened” this past spring by the water flow management at the hydroelectric dams on the Abitibi River that are operated by Ontario Power Generation (OPG). “There was too much water let out of the dam too early,” Cool said. “And the ice wasn’t ready for breakup and so we had a breakup that caused a tremendous silting problem.” The result was the ice being “bulldozed into the waterways,” dragging and building up materials that increased sedimentation, according to Cool. “So the normal silting action has been interfered with severely with due to proper control of water,” Cool said.
Lenny Carpenter/Wawatay News
A local business owner believes hydroelectric dams operated by Ontario Power Generation, such as this one at Abitibi Canyon, are the cause of the lower water levels on Moose River. “It’s causing a lot of grief.” An OPG spokesperson disagreed with Cool’s assessment. Neal Kelly said this past
spring was unique in terms of the warm temperatures that arrived mid-March, with temperatures in the Timmins area
“well into the 20s.” “The winter snow pack melted quickly and it was followed by a fair amount of
rain in Timmins area and so you have all this water coming down the Moose River and when water’s ready to flow, it flows,” Kelly said. “We can’t hold water back - water in equals water going out.” Kelly added that the lower water levels might have been “exasperated” this year by the lack of precipitation. “So there is probably less water in the summer,” he said. “So it’s a whole number of factors.” Regardless of cause, Cool said the best solution for his business to operate in the region is to have the river dredged. “One possibility is just having barges from here come in from shallow drafts with little wee tugs and having a tug waiting out the mouth of the river,” Cool said. “We’re exploring all the avenues but it’s going to cause a lot of grief for all the people next year.” Hardisty is not so sure what is causing the lower water levels. “It could be the dams,” he said. “We know there’s a cycle where the water will come
“I don’t know if it’s global warming but the weather has changed quite a bit. We seem to be having longer falls, shorter winters and spring comes earlier now.” - Moose Cree Chief Norm Hardisty
North Star Air Ltd 1-800-285-8618 Nakina Air Service Ltd 1-800-797-4424
from higher areas, the southern parts of Ontario. And a lot of people are thinking that it’s a lack of rain or snowfall or what have you.” In an e-mail to Wawatay News, a Ministry of Natural Resources spokesperson said northeastern Ontario “continues to be dry and the entire region is experiencing effects of below-normal precipitation.” Over a three-month period, the region has only received between 50-75 per cent of the expected amount of precipitation. “And so far this month (September), the region has only received less than half of what would normally fall,” the spokesperson said. Hardisty noted that water levels could be part of a larger problem. “I don’t know if it’s global warming but the weather has changed quite a bit,” he said. “We seem to be having longer falls, shorter winters and spring comes earlier now.” Cheechoo theorizes it is part of a global change. In the news, he has noticed record dry spells in various parts of the world. And the Moose River is not the only waterway experiencing decreased water depth along James Bay. “I’ve asked people in Attawapiskat, Fort Albany and even Peawanuck,” Hardisty said. “They’ve got the same problems.” The result is that to continue the traditional moose hunt along the rivers as their ancestors have done for centuries, the Moose Cree are at the mercy of Mother Nature. “If it’s raining all weekend in Timmins, it’s good for us because all that water comes down here,” Hardisty said.
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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Submitted photos by Allyne Gliddon
The abandoned mine exploration site at Lingman Lake still contains old barrels, exploration equipment, and the threat that the soil and water near the site is contaminated with fuel and other chemicals. Although left over fuel at the site was burned off earlier this year by the Ontario government, Sachigo Lake First Nation wants the remainder of the site cleaned up. The issue is muddled because the site is owned by Cool Minerals.
Sachigo forced to wait and see on Lingman Lake cleanup Provincial government argues that site poses no emergency threat since fuel removed Shawn Bell Wawatay News
Old equipment and barrels of waste from mining exploration at Lingman Lake, near Sachigo Lake First Nation, has been sitting on the site since the 1980s when the company that held the lease pulled out of the region. Site surveys have shown that fuel drums leaked over the years, but there has never been a full environmental assessment of the area to determine what lasting environmental legacy of the mining work remains. For over two decades the people of Sachigo Lake have been calling for the site to be remediated. And while some of their immediate concerns were alleviated earlier this year when the provincial government burned off nearly a million litres of old fuel, an open mine shaft, a range of hazards and an unknown amount of contaminants still litter Lingman Lake. The people of Sachigo Lake First Nation remain frustrated with the mess, and the potential health and safety risks it poses. “(The government) has taken away the immediate danger in terms of the risk of fire we had to face each summer, but there is still the issue of environmental contamination, from the fuel that leaked into the land, water and river,” said Sachigo Lake Chief Titus Tait. “That’s what concerns the community, and that’s what we’re trying to get the government to address.” The cleanup of Lingman Lake is complicated by the fact that leases for the site were transferred to Cool Minerals over a decade ago. Cool Minerals was not the company that did the original exploration work, but as the lease-holder it is responsible for submitting a closure plan to the provincial government. Ontario has issued two orders to Cool Minerals for that closure plan, both of which have been ignored by the company. The most recent court order for a closure plan had a deadline of Oct. 10, 2012, but Cool Minerals once again ignored the request.
The fuel incineration work at the site, which took place in May 2012 and saw 850,000 litres of fuel burned off, required Ontario to use emergency measures in order to get around Cool Mineral’s ownership. According to a spokesperson at Ontario’s Ministry of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM), following the fuel incineration the government now considers the most pressing threats related to the site resolved. “The emergency measures taken by MNDM’s emergency fuel incineration project have eliminated or greatly reduced the environmental impact risks of the mine site,” said Julie Bennett of MNDM. “That means the site now does not require emergency measures.” Bennett added that MNDM
is “in the process of considering the next steps in response to the latest non-compliance by Cool Minerals.” Meanwhile in Sachigo Lake, the community is frustrated that they are the ones exposed to long-term risks from a mine they never wanted in the first place. As Tait explained, the community still lives off the land, and many people, including youth, hunt and fish in the area around Lingman Lake. “We feed on the animals that drink the water,” Tait said. “That’s what concerns the community.” Sachigo Lake is also starting its land use planning in conjunction with the Ministry of Natural Resources, a land use plan that will include the area around Lingman Lake. The chief acknowledged
that the fuel incineration was a big relief, as the community had spent every summer over the past two decades wondering and worrying over the possibility that a forest fire would set the fuel ablaze. But now Tait worries that the government will ignore the remaining problems at the site, once again leaving the community on its own to clean up a mess it did not create. Bennett, however, noted that despite the ministry’s work burning off the fuel, Cool Minerals remains responsible for cleaning up the site. There are over 5,700 known abandoned mine sites in Ontario, she said, of which approximately 30 to 40 percent are on Crown land and the responsibility of the government.
The government operates an Abandoned Mines Reha-
“(The government) has taken away the immediate danger in terms of the risk of fire we had to face each summer, but there is still the issue of environmental contamination, from the fuel that leaked into the land, water and river.” – Titus Tait, Sachigo Lake Chief
bilitation Program (AMRP) to clean up old mine sites that have reverted to the
Crown, whether by dissolution of the corporation that owned the lease or by nonpayment of taxes, but sites that are still owned by a private company, such as Lingman Lake, are not eligible for the program. Besides, as Bennett explained, even within the AMRP mine sites have to be prioritized according to potential environmental and/or human health and safety risks. From the government’s perspective, the emergency measures required at Lingman Lake have been completed. Meaning, as Tait said, Sachigo Lake First Nation is left in a familiar spot when it comes to Lingman Lake. “It’s a wait and see thing,” Tait said. “It’s been wait and see for over 20 years.”
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Wawatay News
Treaty #3, Anishinabek Nation sign unity agreement Rick Garrick Wawatay News
Grand Council of Treaty #3 and the Anishinabek Nation have signed a Unity Protocol to work together on areas of mutual interest. “I see this as an opportunity to build on our relationship and work through issues that impact both Nations,� said Treaty #3 Grand Chief Warren White. “In discussions with Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief (Patrick Wedaseh) Madahbee, we’ve agreed that we share the same vision in areas of child welfare and lands and resources.� Covering the areas of child welfare, lands and resources and protection of treaty and Aboriginal rights, the Unity Protocol was validated during a traditional ceremony at Powwow Island in Wauzhushk Onigum (Rat Portage). The two leaders agreed to share knowledge of traditional law making processes and institutions that are consistent with sacred and traditional Anishinabe law, including the areas of protecting land, resources, environment and life, providing for the
“With ongoing legislative attacks by all levels of government, this is just the first step in reaffirming our sovereignty and unity at the fundamental base of the Anishinabek Nation.�
NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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Aboriginal arts and crafts featured in holiday gift show 11th annual gift show happens Dec. 4-8 in Thunder Bay Rick Garrick Wawatay News
- Grand Council Chief Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee
best interests of the child in a traditional community and culture, confirming and protecting Anishinabe citizenship and solidifying and strengthening the spirit and intent of the treaties. “Ogichidaa Warren White and I have taken the advice of our Elders and respective leaders on some of our more critical priorities,� Madahbee said. “With ongoing legislative attacks by all levels of government, this is just the first step in reaffirming our sovereignty and unity at the fundamental base of the Anishinabek Nation.�
Rick Garrick/Wawatay News
Pic River artist Gary LeBouthillier plans to sell his art at the 11th Annual Aboriginal Fine Arts and Crafts Christmas Gift Show in Thunder Bay.
REVIEW Minor Amendment Review Wabigoon Forest 2008–2018 Forest Management Plan The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), Domtar Inc. and the Dryden Local Citizens Advisory Committee (LCAC) invite you to review the MNR-accepted minor amendment to the 2008–2018 Forest Management Plan (FMP) for the Wabigoon Forest and to provide comments. This amendment provides for the conversion of 6100 hectares of contingency harvest areas to regular harvest area and changing 5808 hectares of Phase II allocations to optional forest area. This will allow for the extension of the Phase I portion of the 2008–2018 FMP for one year. These changes reflect locations across the management unit. How to Get Involved Minor amendment #35 will be available for review for a 15-day period from December 1 to 15, 2012 at the following locations: t 5 IF ./3 QVCMJD XFCTJUF BU ontario.ca/forestplans and the Ontario Government Information Centre in Toronto at 777 Bay Street and the ServiceOntario Centre at 479 Government Street, Dryden, ON provide Internet access;
About 170 Aboriginal artisans are expected to exhibit their artwork at the 11th Annual Aboriginal Fine Arts and Crafts Christmas Gift Show in Thunder Bay. “It’s always fascinating to see what First Nations work with and create from raw material,� said John Ferris, founder of the Aboriginal Artworks Group of Northern Ontario and organizer of the annual arts and crafts show. “These are indigenous artworks that are passed down from one generation to another since time immemorial. It’s unique; it’s probably the best work you can get from First Nations artisans. It’s not just artwork — it’s their culture.� Ferris expects the annual arts and crafts show, scheduled for Dec. 4-8 at the Victoriaville Centre, to attract as many visitors as last year. “The last few years it was very successful because we have a lot more people coming in and everybody is aware of what the show contains,� Ferris said. “People from all over Ontario come down here and display and sell their artwork. So that is what people are attracted to.� Aboriginal paintings, birch bark baskets, jewelry, soap stone and wood carvings, First Nations regalia, moccasins, mukluks, tikanagans, moose and deer hides, fur and leather hats are among the artworks usually sold at the annual arts and crafts show. Ferris said the artworks are made from a variety of materials, including bone, leather, beads and fur. “We have quite a few paintings as well,� Ferris
said. “We have Don Ningewance working with a different style of art in acrylic.� Ferris also mentioned the artwork of Perry Perrault and Kevin Belmore. “I’m always fascinated with (Perrault’s) work because he has so much detail in there, but also so much stories within it,� Ferris said. “(Belmore) does beautiful work and people recognize him and people come to see him as well too, just for his work.� Ferris said the show features many artisans with their own styles of doing arts and crafts. One new artist who is planning to attend this year’s arts and crafts show is a Pic River band member who grew up on the east coast, where his father originally grew up. “I have many stories to tell,� said Gary LeBouthillier, who moved to northern Ontario about 20 years ago to learn more about his Anishinabek culture. “I express my culture through my paintings — this my language and this is what I love doing.� LeBouthillier has been creating his artwork for the past 20 years and has sold some artwork to people from across the world. “I like to express my colours in my dreams and I like to put them on paper or canvas,� LeBouthillier said. “Being urbanized, I like to go back to my first footsteps from a very young age where I would learn from the traditional ways.� LeBouthillier grew up on a trapline in New Brunswick. “The eagle for me is the messenger of our dreams towards the Creator and towards nature,� LeBouthillier said.
t % PNUBS *OD Dryden Forest Land Office within Dryden Mill tel: 807-223-9853 Comments and/or concerns with respect to this minor amendment must be received within the 15-day review period and no later than December 15, 2012 by Derek Johnson of the MNR Dryden District Office. Further public consultation may be required if significant changes are needed as a result of comments. Otherwise, following the 15-day inspection period, the minor amendment will be approved. After approval the amendment will remain on the MNR public website for the duration of the FMP.
807-476-0616
During the 15-day review period, you may make a written request to the MNR District Manager to initiate a formal issue resolution process, following the process described in the 2009 Forest Management Planning Manual (Part C, Section 6.1.4). The Ministry of Natural Resources is collecting your personal information and comments under the authority of the Crown Forest Sustainability Act. Any personal information you provide (address, name, telephone, etc.) will be protected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act; however, your comments will become part of the public consultation process and may be shared with the general public. Your personal information may be used by the Ministry of Natural Resources to send you further information related to this forest management planning exercise. If you have questions about the use of your personal information, please contact Patti Mittleholt at 807-223-7557. For more information or to arrange an appointment with MNR or Domtar Inc. staff to discuss the Minor Amendment, please contact: Dryden MNR Office Derek Johnson Area Forester Dryden District Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources tel: 807-223-7556 e-mail: derek.johnson@ontario.ca
Domtar Inc. Penny Ratushniak SFL Forester Dryden Forest Land Office (within Dryden Mill) tel: 807-223-9852 e-mail: Penny.Ratushniak@domtar.com
Renseignements en français : Sylvie Gilbert a 807-934-2262.
Wawatay Radio Network is broadcast on 89.9 FM in Sioux Lookout and 106.7 FM in Timmins and to 38 community-based
affiliated radio stations. WRN is also distributed nationally on Bell TV Channel 962.
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NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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‘It’s better being on a native diet’ Rick Garrick Wawatay News
Traditional diet advocate Bossy Ducharme is planning to restart his diet on Dec. 1 after successfully completing his first 16 months of eating only traditional First Nations food last January. “Right now I’m on the Paleo (paleolithic) diet, which is about 80 per cent of my (traditional diet),” Ducharme said during a Nov. 13 presentation for youth in Thunder Bay. “It’s better being on the native diet, for me, and Dec. 1 can’t come soon enough.” Ducharme spoke about his exper iences on the traditional diet and since he stopped following it during the youth presentation and at an adult presentation on the following day at the Thunder Bay Indian Friendship Centre. Ducharme said he “lost it” after going off the traditional diet last January. “My anxiety came back,” he said, adding that he also gained weight when he went off the traditional diet. Ducharme said his whole life changed while he was on his traditional diet, noting that he didn’t experience anxiety or worry while on the diet even though three people close to him died that year. “I lived in the moment and day by day,” he said. Ducharme would usually eat “big” when he woke up in the morning while on the traditional diet. “Sometimes I would have a full meal,” Ducharme said. “If I could afford a salmon filet, I would have it for breakfast. That’s the best thing — to wake up and eat like a bear.” Ducharme usually broiled his salmon filet. “It’s crisp on the outside and tasty on the inside,” he said. In addition to the salmon, Ducharme also loves eating berries, a variety of nuts such as pecans, hazelnuts and pine nuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds
“I lived in the moment and lived day by day.” – Bossy Ducharme, describing life on the traditional diet.
and wild rice for breakfast. “A lot of times I would have corn meal cereal with maple syrup if I was in a rush,” he said. Ducharme usually uses a slow cooker to cook his meals overnight, explaining that turkey, buffalo and elk made up most of his diet. “Before I went to sleep, I would throw in some meat, usually buffalo or elk or turkey, and then when I wake up in the morning it’s all ready for the day and I would eat that all day,” Ducharme said. “And nine months into my diet I found canned salmon with no salt added. It’s fast.” Ducharme said the canned salmon made his life on the traditional diet a lot easier, noting that up until he discovered it he had been spending most of his evenings preparing food. “I always had wild rice on me all the time,” Ducharme said. “I always had nuts and seeds on me at all times and I always had berries.” Ducharme usually cooked about one cup of wild rice every second evening, which would last him about two days. “I got most of my wild rice from Winnipeg, because it is actually real wild rice,” he said. Ducharme’s favourite drink was peppermint tea, with maple syrup as a sweetener. He also ate pumpkin, squash and even fiddleheads. “I’m only saying it’s for native ... Turtle Island people,” Ducharme said. “Weston A. Price did a study in the early 1900s and he discovered that if you eat closer to your ancestors environment, what they ate, you will be of optimal health.” While Ducharme’s diet worked for him, people should consult a doctor or dietician before embarking on any diet.
Rick Garrick/Wawatay News
Bossy Ducharme described his traditional diet to a group of youth at the Ontario Native Women’s Association office in Thunder Bay on Nov. 13.
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PARTICIPATE Fisheries Management Zone 4 Management Plan The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) and the Fisheries Management Zone 4 Advisory Council invite you to participate in the review of the draft fisheries management plan for Fisheries Management Zone 4 (FMZ-4). The MNR, in cooperation with the FMZ-4 Advisory Council, have worked together to develop a draft plan to address issues and challenges specific to managing sustainable fisheries within the unique ecological and social features of FMZ-4. The MNR and the Advisory Council invite you to participate in the review of the draft fisheries management plan for FMZ-4. Please provide comments by January 9, 2013. The draft plan is available for review at the following MNR District and Area offices: Dryden District Office, 479 Government Street, Dryden Ignace Area Office, Highways 17 and 599 North, Ignace Red Lake District Office, 227 Howey Street, Red Lake Kenora District Office, 808 Robertson Street, Kenora Sioux Lookout District Office, 49 Prince Street, Sioux Lookout
Services Cosco Technology Call Garett Cosco for all your tech needs including computer repair and satellite installation. 807-738-TECH (8324) www.coscotech.ca
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editor@wawatay.on.ca Or fax to 807-344-3182
Public input and comments are welcome and can be submitted by mailing the MNR contact person below, visiting one of the offices listed above or posting comments on the Environmental Registry website at ontario.ca/ebr (EBR registry number 011-7316). Further opportunities for involvement in the development of this FMZ-4 fisheries management plan will include an inspection of the Final Plan. For more information or to add your name to the mailing list, please contact: Jennifer Boyko, Plan Author Ministry of Natural Resources Dryden District Office 479 Government Street P.O Box 730 Dryden, ON P8N 2Z4 tel: 807-223-7584 fax: 807-223-2824 e-mail: jennifer.boyko@ontario.ca Personal information and comments for this project are collected under the authority of the Public Lands Act and the Fisheries Act. Any personal information will be protected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and may be used by the MNR to provide notification of future resource management initiatives. A summary of public comments collected will become part of the record of communication and may be shared with the general public. Renseignements en français : Sylvie Gilbart, 807-934-2256.
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Wawatay News
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Finance Manager The Finance Manager reports to the Business Manager and is responsible for preparing financial statements, maintaining cash controls, and personnel administration, purchasing, maintaining accounts payable, accounts receivable and assist in managing office operations. The Finance Manager must work within Wawatay Native Communications Society Finance policies and procedures. Qualifications: • Designation or diploma in an accounting and financial management, Human Resources field. • Minimum of three years experience in a financial Management, and Human Resource management position. • Knowledge and experience with a computerized and networked accounting system. • Must have a high degree of initiative, motivation and the ability to observe strict confidentiality is essential, and must be willing to work overtime when required. • Must provide current criminal reference check. • Excellent written and oral communications skills. The ability to communicate in Cree, Ojibway or Oji-Cree is an asset. Duties: • Establish and oversee the maintenance of a financial and human resource filing system for the organization. • Assist the Business Manager and department managers by reviewing proposals to ensure soundness, with particular emphasis on the review of budgets and cash flow forecasts. • Preparation and presentation of all financial reports, notes, recommendations and resolutions required by the Business Manager • Ensure the safe keeping of all financial legal and maintenance contracts and documents. • Complete all reconciliations and general journal entries required in the preparation of an accurate set of monthly financial statements • Distribute monthly financial statements including receivables, payables and cheque listing to the Business Manager • Oversee the preparation of the bi-weekly payroll in order to ensure that employees are paid in an accurate and timely manner • Prepare and ensure all reports and remittances for HST, payroll remittances, WSIB, HRDC hiring reports and other reports that may be required are submitted on time. • Oversee preparations for the annual audit and ensure all documentation is available for the audit. The audited financial statements shall be completed by June 30th of each year. • Update and maintain the organization’s financial and personnel policies. • Perform other related duties as required by the Business Manager. Location: Sioux Lookout, Ontario Apply Before: Friday, November 30, 2012 – 4:00 PM CST Please send resume and three references to: Tabatha Jourdain, Human Resources Box 1180 Sioux Lookout, Ontario P8T 1B7 fax: 807.737.3224 e-mail: tabathaj@wawatay.on.ca WNCS thanks those who apply. However, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
NOVEMBER 29, 2012
ᐧᐊᐧᐊᑌ ᐊᒋᒧᐧᐃᓇᐣ
SIOUX LOOKOUT FIRST NATIONS HEALTH AUTHORITY
SIOUX LOOKOUT FIRST NATIONS HEALTH AUTHORITY Tuberculosis Control Program
TRANSITION FACILITATOR Internal/External Posting Full Time Position Location: Sioux Lookout, ON
TUBERCULOSIS EDUCATOR Internal/External Posting Term Full Time (1 year) Location: Sioux Lookout, ON
This position is responsible for providing support and assistance to young adults with developmental disabilities and to increase/ strengthen their involvement with community. QUALIFICATIONS • Minimum Grade 12 or equivalent; • Diploma in Developmental Services or demonstrated equivalency through experience an asset; • Understanding of community development principles, personcentered planning, life skills development; • Experience in conflict resolution; • Excellent interpersonal skills; • An understanding of community services that support clients with special needs; • Valid Driver’s License, use of vehicle and appropriate insurance coverage. KNOWLEDGE & ABILITY • Knowledge of the people, culture and health priorities of the First Nations communities in the Sioux Lookout Zone; • Ability to work independently and in a team environment; • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Professional Pro Plus 2007; • Ability to communicate in one of the First Nation dialects of the Sioux Lookout Zone a definite asset; • Ability to work with confidential client and organization information in a responsible manner; • Ability and willing to work flexible work hours as required; • Ability and willing to travel extensively to First Nations Communities; • Must be willing to relocate and live in Sioux Lookout. Please send cover letter, resume, three most recent employment references and an up-to-date Criminal Reference Check & Vulnerable Person’s Sector Check to:
The Tuberculosis Educator is responsible to promote and provide awareness, education, and methods of prevention on tuberculosis to members of the Sioux Lookout Zone First Nations. The incumbent will develop culturally relevant educational resources, conduct and facilitate workshops at the community level, act as an advocate, and resource to First Nations people. This position also facilitates the delivery of Tuberculosis education and support services to clients both in hospital, and at the First Nation community level. QUALIFICATIONS • Grade 12 or equivalent; • Certificate/Diploma in a Health related field a definite asset; • Minimum two years experience in a health care field an asset; • Experience working with families; • Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills; • Possess excellent team building and networking skills; • Must be willing and able to travel extensively to designated communities. KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITY • Ability to communicate in one or more of the First Nation dialects in the Sioux Lookout Zone a definite asset; • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Professional Pro 2007 an asset; • Experience and understanding of the Native cultural issues, the geographical realities and social conditions within remote Northern First Nation communities; • Innovative problem solving and decision making skills; • Excellent time management and organizational skills, as well as the ability to work independently; • Must be willing to relocate and live in Sioux Lookout. Please send cover letter, resume, three most recent employment references and an up-to-date Criminal Reference Check with a Vulnerable Person’s Sector Check to:
Human Resources Department Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority 61 Queen Street, P.O. Box 1300 Sioux Lookout, ON P8T 1B8 Phone: (807) 737-1802 Fax: (807) 737-2969 Email: Human.Resources@slfnha.com
Human Resource Department Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority P.O. Box 1300, 61 Queen Street Sioux Lookout, ON P8T 1B8 Phone: (807) 737-1802 Fax: (807) 737-2969 Email: Human.Resources@slfnha.com
Closing Date: December 7, 2012 at 4:30 p.m.
Closing Date: December 7, 2012 at 4:30 p.m.
No resumes received after that time will be accepted The Health Authority wishes to thank all applicants in advance. However, only those granted an interview will be contacted. For additional information regarding the Health Authority, please visit our Web-site at www.slfnha.com
The Health Authority wishes to thank all applicants in advance. However, only those granted an interview will be contacted. For additional information regarding the Health Authority, please visit our Web-site at www.slfnha.com
SIOUX LOOKOUT FIRST NATIONS HEALTH AUTHORITY
SIOUX LOOKOUT FIRST NATIONS HEALTH AUTHORITY Client Services Department
SIOUX LOOKOUT FIRST NATIONS HEALTH AUTHORITY Client Services Department
RESIDENTIAL COUNSELLOR Internal/External Posting Permanent Full Time Position Location: Sioux Lookout, Ontario
RECEPTIONIST/SECRETARY Internal/External Posting Casual Employment Location: Sioux Lookout, Ontario
ACCOMMODATION CLERK Internal/External Posting Casual Employment Location: Sioux Lookout, Ontario
Residential Counsellor is required for full time position. Team members will be responsible for carrying out daily programming, facilitating groups, case conferencing and supervision of clients.
The Receptionist/Secretary is responsible for performing administrative and clerical support services for the Hostel facility.
The Accommodation Clerk is primarily responsible for the overall care of the hostel and private accommodation boarders. The incumbent will process boarder information, assist the dispatcher with daily pick up lists, and work cooperatively with other staff and agencies.
QUALIFICATIONS • Child and Youth Worker diploma and/or related discipline; • Experience working with youth in a residential treatment setting; • Must have experience and understanding of Native culture, and of the geographic realities and social conditions within remote First Nation Communities; • Work experience in Residential Services with children, adolescents, and families.
QUALIFICATIONS • Minimum Grade 12; • Certificate/Diploma in Secretarial Arts an asset; • Minimum 2 years experience in a clerical/secretarial field an asset; • Previous experience working in the Sioux Lookout Zone health care system would be a definite asset; • Excellent public relation skills.
KNOWLEDGE & ABILITY • A thorough understanding of the Child & Family Services Act and Mental Health Act a definite asset; • Ability to communicate in one or more of the First Nations dialects of the Sioux Lookout District will be an asset; • Ability to take direction and facilitate individualized treatment plans; • Knowledge of child development and therapeutic modalities in working with youth; • Excellent time management and organizational skills, as well as the ability to work independently; • Must be willing and able to relocate to Sioux Lookout.
KNOWLEDGE/ABILITY • Proficient keyboarding skills, knowledge of file management techniques and telephone reception; • Knowledge of Microsoft Office XP Pro (Office Pro 2007 an asset); • Ability to speak in one of the First Nations Dialects in the Sioux Lookout Zone is a definite asset; • Must have experience and understanding of Native culture, and of the geographic realities and social conditions within remote First Nation Communities; • Good working knowledge and experience in time management, excellent organizational skills, as well as the ability to work independently.
Please send cover letter, resume, three most recent employment references and an up-to-date criminal reference check with a Search of the Pardoned Sexual Offender Registry to:
Please send cover letter, resume, three most recent employment references and an up-to-date Criminal Reference Check with a Vulnerable Persons Sector Check to:
Human Resources Department Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority 61 Queen Street, P.O. Box 1300 Sioux Lookout, Ontario P8T 1B8 Phone: (807) 737-1802 Fax: (807) 737-2969 Email: Human.Resources@slfnha.com
Human Resources Department Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority 61 Queen Street, P.O. Box 1300 Sioux Lookout, ON P8T 1B8 Phone: (807) 737-1802 Fax: (807) 737-2969 Email: Human.Resources@slfnha.com
Closing Date: December 7, 2012
Closing Date: November 30, 2012
The Health Authority wishes to thank all applicants in advance. However, only those granted an interview will be contacted.
The Health Authority wishes to thank all applicants in advance. However, only those granted an interview will be contacted.
For additional information regarding the Health Authority, please visit our Web-site at www.slfnha.com
For additional information regarding the Health Authority, please visit our Web-site at www.slfnha.com
QUALIFICATIONS: • • • •
Minimum Grade 12 or GED; Previous experience in a front desk clerk position an asset; Good communication, and interpersonal skills; Proficient word processing skills with keyboarding skills of a minimum of 50 wpm.
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITY
• Ability to communicate in one or more of the First Nations dialects of the Sioux Lookout Zone a definite asset; • Knowledge and experience in office procedures and familiarity with databases an asset; • Experience and understanding of Native cultural issues, the geographical realities and social conditions within remote Northern First Nation communities; • Innovative problem solving and decision making skills; • Excellent time management, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to work independently; • Ability to multi-task is a definite asset; • Must be willing to do shift work; • Must be willing to relocate and live in Sioux Lookout.
Please send cover letter, resume, three most recent employment references and an up-to-date Criminal Reference Check with a Search of Vulnerable Persons Screening to: Human Resources Department Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority P.O. Box 1300, 61 Queen Street Sioux Lookout, ON P8T 1B8 Tel: (807) 737-1802 Fax: (807) 737-2969 Email: Human.Resources@slfnha.com
Closing Date: December 7, 2012 at 4:30 p.m. No resume’s received after that time will be accepted The Health Authority wishes to thank all applicants in advance. However, only those granted an interview will be contacted. For additional information regarding the Health Authority, please visit our Web-site at www.slfnha.com
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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Submitted photos
Left: More than 40 Sandy Lake students took part in a three-day dance workshop held Nov. 19-21 organized by Outside Looking In. Above: Students chill out with Outside Looking In dance choreographer and workshop facilitator Queenie Seguban (third from right).
Sandy Lake students get dance fever Lenny Carpenter Wawatay News
Sandy Lake students discovered the art of dance on Nov. 19-21 and now have the opportunity to bring it the main stage in Toronto next summer. More than 40 students in Grades 7-10 took part in a three-day dance workshop led by Outside Looking In (OLI), a dance program that operates in First Nations communities across the country. “Every community is different and the Sandy Lake kids just couldn’t wait and were craving more dance,” said Tracee Smith, founder and artistic director of OLI. “We probably would’ve danced for longer days on end.” Smith, a Missinabie Cree member, said OLI was approached by Thomas Fiddler
Memorial High School principal Sarah Sawanas to run the program in their community. The program allows students to earn a high school credit and, depending if they meet certain criteria, have the opportunity to be invited to dance at a major showcase in Toronto in June. Smith said after students approached her to ask how they can be selected, Smith asked them who they think would decide. They said “you do,” pointing to Smith. “I said no, you do. They choose themselves. We set criteria and we have strict academic standards, and if they’re dedicated and attend rehearsals, we invite them.” Earlier this year, 14 youth from Lac La Croix took part in the Toronto showcase, including Lance Geyshick. It was Geyshick’s fourth time
taking part. He first joined the showcase in 2008 when he was 12.
“It’s amazing to see how self-motivating they are even though not all have danced before.” -Queenie Saguban OLI dance choreographer
“I used to be a really shy kid,” he recalled. “It brought me out of my shell and I don’t think I’d ever do something like this.” As an alumni of the program, Geyshick joined OLI in going to Sandy Lake to help inspire the youth. “I told them to just take it all in, enjoy it, don’t be shy,” he said. Queenie Seguban, a dance
choreographer who facilitated the workshops, said she was impressed with the Sandy Lake students. “It’s amazing to see how self-motivating they are even though not all have danced before,” she said. “And their motivation to learn more and was inspirational to me, even as a professional dancer.” In addition to Sandy Lake and Lac La Croix, OLI has previously operated in Pikangikum and Onigaming in northern Ontario. OLI was founded in 2007 by Smith to instill leadership, commitment and dedication in First Nations youth through dance. “Most importantly, I thought that no matter where kids are located, they should have same opportunities and to experience dance,” she said.
Submitted photo
Outside Looking In dance choreographer Queenie Seguban (far left), OLI program manager Maureen Hatherly (2nd from left) and founder Tracee Smith (far right) pose with Sandy Lake High School Principal Sarah Sauranas.
Wasaya Airways 16th Annual Turkey Run Since 1997, Wasaya Airways has been brightening holiday spirit by donating turkeys and goodie bags to our ownership Northern First Nation communities. This year we are donating turkeys to 2900 households. For the past 16 years, we have been able to provide joy to First Nation families in twelve communities thanks to the support and partnership of other companies and organizations throughout Northwestern Ontario. Wasaya Airways invites you to participate in the spreading of Christmas cheer with us this year. For more details and information on how to sponsor please contact Sharon Smith-Baxter at 807.474.2351 or Len Gibbins at 807.474.2341
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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Books broaden worldview of Keewaywin students Lenny Carpenter Wawatay News
Students and staff at the Keeywaywin First Nation School were surprised to find a box of books had arrived one weekend. “We didn’t know where they had come from,” said Anna Fern Kakegamic, principal of the school. It was not until a note, which had peeled off the box, was found that the school discovered the books came from two teenage sisters in southern Ontario. Emily and Julia Mogus of Oakville, Ont. formed Books With No Bounds last summer with the goal of collecting and sending books to remote First Nations communities in northern Ontario. By October, they gathered 5,000 books in donations and
out of their own pockets and sent them off. Keewaywin was one of more than 20 fly-in communities that received a shipment of books.
“I just find what the kids get here on the reserve, any exposure to any books or literature is good.” -Anna Fern Kakegamic principal
“The students really liked receiving the books,” Kakagamic said. She described the books as being of good quality and for different ages. After the books were sorted for each grade, students were free to take a book home. “We went through all the
Submitted photo
Students and staff at the Keewaywin First Nations School received a shipment of books from Books With No Bounds in October. books and some children picked out two books to take home,” Kakegamic said. “There was that many.” The school is a member of
a book club but the club only offered books for students up to Grade 6. But the books received from Books With No Bounds offered something for
the older students. “There were so many high reading levels that they were happy with the different choices,” Kakegamic said. Kakegamic said the reading levels at the school “are still very high,” though improving their writing is something the staff is working on. “We’re making some headway with that,” she said. But the books also help with providing a view of the world outside their own community. Some students do not leave the reserve until the Grade 8 trip. “I just find what the kids get here on the reserve, any exposure to any books or literature is good,” Kakegamic said. Kakegamic wrote a letter to the Mogus sisters, thanking them and telling them that the students would have a lot of fun reading them. She also
included a photo of some students and staff with the books. To help raise awareness to their cause, the Mogus sisters have appeared on TV shows to talk about the low literacy rates in NAN communities. Kakegamic said she watched one of their appearances and saw the photo she sent presented on the show. “The teachers told (the students) that they’re on the news and that their picture were on TV,” she said, adding with a laugh: “Some don’t comprehend that – they don’t realize that they’re on national TV.” The Mogus sisters said Books With No Bounds is ongoing as they are back to collecting more books to send up north. Kakegamic said the sisters have taken on “a good initiative” and that the school is receptive to receiving more.
Fort Albany hockey teams left to practice outside or in gymnasium Lenny Carpenter Wawatay News
Playing hockey on an outdoor rink is often viewed as a nostalgic reminder of the sport’s past for many Canadians and the go-to location for a game of pickup. But for the community of Fort Albany, playing hockey outside is the only option for its organized teams. The First Nation is the only James Bay community without its own arena and so its players must brave the cold James Bay wind just to practice for an upcoming tournament. “Last year was hard because when we practiced, we practiced outside my house,” said Charlotte Nakoochee, a youth cultural worker at the Health Centre in Fort Albany. Nakochee helped her cousin coach a team of 14 players last year, but practice sessions were confined to a 30 by 15 foot rink Nakoochee had built in her yard. “That’s not even enough space to practice for the team we had,” she said.
“Last year was hard because when we practiced, we practiced outside my house.” -Charlotte Nakoochee co-coach of Fort Albany Islanders
This season, Nakoochee said there are enough players to ice a team in the tyke, novice, atoms and peewee divisions. And since the temperatures are not cold enough to build an ice rink, teams are practicing in the school’s gymnasium. Building an arena would not only provide a “decent place” to practice and play, but it would allow the community to host a tournament someday. Though the community has tried to get funds to have an arena built in the past, Nakoochee is starting “new and fresh.” She has turned to the Aviva Community Fund competition, where any Canadian can submit an idea that will have “positive change” on their
community. The idea is voted online by the public in a series of rounds. Aviva Canada Inc. offers $1 million to the competition. Called “To get an Arena for Fort Albany First Nation,” Nakoochee submitted the entry on behalf of the team she coaches, the Fort Albany Islanders. The entry is asking for the maximum amount category, $100,000 -150,000. Nakoochee said she is not sure how much an arena would cost, but said contractors will be submitting blueprints for an arena in the future. Whatever the outcome of the Aviva competition, Nakoochee said her and the rest of the community’s hockey players will continue to push for an arena to be built. “(The Aviva competition) would help and we would fundraise as well,” she said. “We already have events coming up.” The second round of the Aviva Community Fund competition concluded on Nov. 26. Aviva will announce the semifinalists on Nov. 28.
Submitted photo
The Fort Albany Islanders pose on an outdoor rink following a practice last season. The First Nation is the only community along the James Bay coast without an arena and so its minor hockey teams must practice on outdoor rinks or in the school gymnasium. Coach Charlotte Nakoochee is looking to raise funds for a new arena by entering the Aviva Community Fund competition and through other fundraising efforts.
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NOVEMBER 29, 2012
Wawatay News
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Wawatay News
NOVEMBER 29, 2012
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Photos by Rick Garrick/Wawatay News
Four First Nations men showed off their hats at a variety of First Nation functions over the past couple of months, including Martin Tuesday at the opening of a youth centre in Thunder Bay, Roy Thunder at the NAN Special Chiefs Assembly and Eabametoong Chief Harry Papah at the NAN Special Chiefs Assembly.
IF YOU WORK IN ONTARIO, THIS IS YOUR FIGHT. On September 11, 2012, the Ontario Liberal government passed Bill 115, the Putting Students First Act, 2012.
Bill 115 is undemocratic, unconstitutional, and unprecedented. s It takes away the democratic rights of teachers and education professionals to bargain collectively. s It places the government beyond the reach of the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Ontario Labour Relations Act, and even the courts. s It takes local decision-making away from school boards and puts it in the hands of the provincial government. That’s why we’re standing against Bill 115. It sets a dangerous precedent for all Ontarians. In fact, the government has already threatened other public sector workers with similar legislation. As teachers, we teach your children to stand up for their principles. Today, we ask you to do the same.
What can you do to help? Join us in standing up for democratic rights. Let your MPP know that Bill 115 must be repealed.
StopBill115.ca
This message brought to you by the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario