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February 2004 News Deadline: Monday, February 16, 2004 Quotation
The best and most beautiful things in the world Contents:
2. Past Event Updates
3. Métis Interest
4. Share a Prayer 5. Happy Birthday 6. Métis Cultural Corner and FYI 7. Joke of the Month 8. Recipe
Info Week at NAIT Making decisions about your future? Get the facts at NAIT’s Info Week. You’ll learn about our programs, how they link to industry and where you’ll fit in. Every day, we’ll focus on a different career area. All sessions on Main Campus, 11762-106 street, Edmonton, Alberta. For more information: www.nait.ab.ca or 780-471-8874 Monday, February 2 From Marketing to Medical Transcription, Accounting to Office & Records Administration … 11 full-time programs in all. School of Hospitality Session starts at 7:00 p.m. in Room U100 Women in Technology Session starts at 7:00 p.m. in Room X107. Tuesday, February 3 Session starts at 7:00 p.m. in the NAIT Shaw Theatre Women in Technology Session starts at 7:00 p.m. in Room X107. Health Sciences Various room locations: consult website or call for information. Wednesday, February 4 Session starts at 7:00 p.m. in the NAIT Shaw Theatre. Thursday, February 5 Sessions starts at 7:00 p.m. in the NAIT Shaw Theatre. Resources and Environmental Management Sessions start at 7:00 p.m. in the Forest Technology: Room V322. All other programs: Room X107. Saturday, February 7 Session starts at 11:00 a.m. in Room E117. Information and Communications Technology Drop in between 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. NAIT HP Centre for Information and Communications Technology, main floor lobby. *** NAIT/Bring on the future *** Asani to perform in Finland Our repertoire is comprised substantially of original compositions in Woodland Cree and English. Our musical styles encompass the spectrum from traditional songs accompanied by rattles and drums, to the contemporary sounds of jazz, folk and pop. We also perform our own arrangements of the music of Indigenous peoples around the world, including Tiddas and Ulali. In addition to our musical offerings, we have also developed and presented workshops locally, nationally and internationally on a variety of themes including "Education through Harmonization," "Working Together in Harmony," "Music and Arts as Tools for Transformation," and "Healing Through Music. Asani is made up of a circle of First Nations and Métis women. SHERRYL SEWEPAGAHAM – Lead vocals, harmony, drum and rattle. Sherryl is from the Little Red River Cree Nation in John D’or Prairie in Northern Alberta. Sherryl began singing since a young age and went on to study classical voice and piano at the Royal Conservatory of Music at Alberta College. She has completed her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education at the University of Alberta. Sherryl is an elementary music educator. DEBBIE HOULE - Lead vocals, harmony, drum and rattle. Debbie was born in Edmonton and was raised in the Elizabeth Métis Settlement in Northeast Alberta. She has been singing since the age of five and studied voice briefly at the Grant MacEwan Community College in Edmonton, Alberta. Debbie currently works full-time for the Métis Settlements Child & Family Services Authority. SARAH POCKLINGTON - Lead vocals, harmony, drum and rattle. Sarah is Cree Métis and graduated from the vocal program at Grant MacEwan Community College, has a B.A. in English/Anthropology and a Masters Degree in Native Studies. She has also taken courses in dance, drama and percussion. Sarah has been teaching, developing courses, and conducting workshops in the field of Native Studies for the past 14 years. On November 21 & 22, 2003, Asani performed at "Exposed Roots" in Montreal, Quebec. As a result the three members of Asani will be performing at the Kaustinen Folk Music Festival in Kaustinen, Finland from July 13-17, 2004. More information on the festival visit www.kaustinen.net/english/index.asp?main=3 . Also, visit Asani’s website at www.asani.org.
On Friday, March 5, 2004, the Northern Lakes College Grouard Campus will be hosting a celebration and talent show in honour of the Métis people of the area and of the nation. Sponsored by Northern Lakes College, Zone 5 Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) and the Provincial MNA, this cultural celebration is scheduled to get underway at 5:00 p.m. in the gymnasium. Following the meal, there will be welcoming speeches by dignitaries. Evening entertainment will include local dancers, a feature performance by the Edmonton Métis Cultural Dance Society, a Métis fashion show featuring the designs of Martha Campiou, and a talent contest. The talent contest will have 3 age groups for the jigging and singing competitions - children (6-14), adults and Elders 55+. The last event of the evening will be an open fiddle contest. There will be a 100% prize payback for all of the competitions. On Saturday, March 6, there will be a Métis Dance workshop, also held at the Northern Lakes College gymnasium. Pre-registration is required. There will be a fee of $10.00 per participant or $25.00 per family. For further information please contact:
A Courtoreille/Fraser family reunion is in the process of being organized for the August long weekend in Pigeon Lake of 2004. If you are a relative or if you know of any one who is a relative, please contact Alex or Sheila Courtoreille at 403-845-5838.
IAAW has honoured 183 exceptional Aboriginal Women to date!! “It is our way of recognizing our own women and bringing attention to the challenges faced by Aboriginal Women,” stated Muriel Stanley Venne. These Awards are completely community-driven, making us all proud of all Aboriginal Women from all parts of the province who have been nominated by their community. We see countless Aboriginal Women who are an inspiration to others, who work hard to bring about positive changes in their communities and who pave the way for a better future. We are especially pleased to have the support of the Aboriginal Community, Corporations, Organizations, and well-known public figures in recognizing their accomplishments. “Angels Among Us” is our theme once again this year. Nominations of the women come from all over Alberta. Closing date for nominations is March 01, 2004 at 5:00 P.M. The categories for nominations are as follows: Book your tables now, tickets will be sold out soon. Please contact Helen Calahasen or Grace at 780-479-8195 for more information on the nominations and the event. Tickets are $125.00 each or $1,250.00 for a table of ten, to order call 1-877-471-2171 or 479-8195 locally.
Through the use of videos and company profiles, these real-life experiences provide both insight and inspiration for starting or expanding a business. The six-minute video clips allow viewers to gain a better perspective of how other Aboriginal entrepreneurs have addressed various issues within their own home-based business. The series showcases businesses in three general stages of development: start-up home biz, established home biz, and take-off success where a home business grew into something much bigger. Six of the ten Aboriginal businesses profiled are based in Alberta and are part of a 13-program series broadcast nationally for HOMEBIZ.TV/Affaires Chez Nous TV. The "First Window" of broadcasts for HOMEBIZ.TV/Affaires Chez Nous TV begins this week! HOMEBIZ.TV begins airing nationally on Report On Business Television starting Thursday, January 8, 2004 at 8:30 p.m. ET and again at 1:30 a.m. ET every Thursday. It will also repeat on Saturdays at 12:30 p.m. ET and 7:30 p.m. ET and on Sundays at 8:00 a.m. ET and 12:30 a.m. ET. That's 6 times for one show in a week! Affaires Chez Nous TV will be broadcast every Wednesday night on SRC Atlantic, starting January 7, 2004, at 9:30 Atlantic time. Other than on the local channel, SRC Atlantic can also be watched on Star Choice (701) or Express Vu (99). As of January 7, 2004, the www.homebiz.tv website will list all programs numbered in broadcast order, with details/profiles on all programs by week's end. To determine when a particular program is going to air, calculate the number of weeks from the broadcast date of the first show to the program you are watching for in particular. For example, Program Three will air 2 weeks from the date of the first broadcast. Remaining French and English broadcasts on networks that include SRC, TFO, Canadian Learning Television, Knowledge Network, ACCESS Alberta, and Saskatchewan Communications Network will be posted on the www.homebiz.tv and www.affairescheznous.tv website as they become available. All broadcasters have a 4-year window and depending on the broadcaster, will be airing the series several times over that period. The profiles are just one of the many specialized products and services offered to Alberta's Aboriginal business community by The Business Link, with the support of Western Economic Diversification and Alberta Economic Development. The Business Link is Alberta's primary Canada Business Service Centre, providing information and advice to entrepreneurs across the province. Check out The Business Link's Aboriginal section within its website at www.cbsc.org/alberta/absn, where you can view the videos, download the guides and access other products and services. For personal service, call The Business Link at 1-800-272-9675, or 422-7788. Visit the downtown Edmonton location, or contact your local Community Futures office.
THE PROGRAM
Class size is limited to 15 participants to ensure optimum individual attention and instruction. Aboriginal women are encouraged to apply. TUITION - There are no tuition fees for participants who meet our eligibility criteria. CLASS STARTS IN JANUARY AND APRIL 2004 APPLICATION PROCESS Program candidates must attend each of the following components:
For more information call 780-452-1200 or toll free in Alberta 1-866-452-1201. The entrance to our shop is under the Women Building Futures canopy in the back alley just south of Jasper and about four doors in from 112 Street in Edmonton, Alberta.
JANUARY - MARCH 31, 2004 FEBRUARY 2 - 7, 2004 FEBRUARY 6, 2004 FEBRUARY 7, 2004 FEBRUARY 13 - 15, 2004 FEBRUARY 14, 2004 FEBRUARY 20, 2004 FEBRUARY 27, 2004 FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 6, 2004 MARCH 5, 2004 MARCH 11 - 13, 2004 MARCH 17 - 19, 2004 MARCH 20, 2004 APRIL 4, 2004 MAY 6, 2004 AUGUST 13 - 15, 2004 AUGUST 19 - 22, 2004 If you would like to advertise an event that other Métis people may be interested in, please email us the information at info@metismatters.com. The deadline is Monday, February 16, 2004.
Black Diamond, Volunteer of the year cares with her ears By Darlene Casten December 17, 2003 - Reta Coutts, Black Diamond’s volunteer of the year, is having a hard time expressing herself. Coutts’ forte is listening. As a volunteer at the Eagle Woman’s Shelter the 72-year-old great grandmother keeps her years of wisdom to herself and opens her ears and her hearts to the female residents. “We talk about what they want to talk about,” Coutts said, adding that she understands the importance of having a listening ear. “They need to get it off their chest,” she explained. “I got it off my chest years ago, but back then I didn’t have anyone to talk to. So if they want to talk about it I say let’s make a pot of tea and talk about it.” Coutts said that while her life has always been full of family and friends, until recently when her youngest son moved out, there were times when she was profoundly alone. At one point Coutts was raising her six children alone, working three jobs and continued to struggle to make ends meet. The hard times in Coutts life have made her stronger. “I act so tough, but my sister tells me I’m a softy and I guess in a way I am,” she admitted. Over the past year Coutts has assisted in sorting and organizing donations and brings in fresh baked buns once or twice a week. Gordan McDowell, executive director of the Eagle Women’s Shelter, nominated Coutts. “Reta is really dedicated to giving of herself,” McDowell noted. “She is a lady who already does a lot in the community,” he added, referring to Coutt’s involvement at area schools. In the past the seasoned listener would visit schools as a teen mentor. “I was just somebody to talk to,” she explained. “Sometimes kids are afraid to talk to their parents. They are afraid they might think less of them.” Coutts said her experience with her siblings and raising her own children has assisted her in becoming an impartial sounding board. “I’ve talked to teenagers,” she said. “They have all kinds of problems.” Coutts also draws on her Métis heritage to teach students how to build dream catchers and cook fried bread. “I feel good when I help others,” she stated. (Reta Coutts is the Métis Local 333 Foothills Elder.)
Grande Prairie Mayor Wayne Ayling brought a warm welcome and greetings from the City. This was the third official launch of this book - previous locations being the Museum of Regiments in Calgary with Dr. Colleen Klein officiating and at the Musee Heritage in St. Albert each hosting the event. The Métis Nation of Alberta Delia Gray Memorial Awards Banquet also honoured Bertha Clark- Jones, then known as Corporal Bertha Houle Royal Canadian Air Force – Women’s Division, Dorothy Chartrand, then Sergeant Dorothy Bellerose Canadian Women’s Army Corp (CWAC), and Theresa Anderson then Fighter Control Operator Theresa Loyie RCAF Women’s Division. Betsy Houle originally from Clear Hills is now living in Australia and Private Mary Cardinal CWAC now Mary Hummel, and Private Theresa Dion CWAC now Theresa Ewachewski were unable to attend the launches. Air Woman Marguerite St. Germaine, RCAF – Women’s Division known for 42 years in Grande Prairie as Marge Plante an active Community person recalled memories of those days as exciting and not a little frightening for a young woman entering into the wartime military world. Most people are not aware that there were 35,000 Canadian women who served in the Forces. Muriel Stanley Venne noted that, because all of these young women’s names were changed when they got married, it made it difficult to find them in the military records and to find out where they were living now. Mel Knight MLA presented beautiful yellow roses and the book to her on behalf of the Alberta Government in front of many family and friends including representatives from Grande Prairie College and schools. Private Gladys Marjorie Irish CWAC, now Gladys Sawchyn has recently moved to Grande Prairie to live closer to her daughters, Christine and was honoured to receive, as did the other Aboriginal women a beautiful silk scarf from Dr. Colleen Klein, Beautiful roses were presented by Gordon Graydon, MLA along with the book. Both women autographed the books and for the many family members and guests. Endorsing this book are Senator Thelma Chalifoux, Honourable Pearl Calahasen, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development MLA Lesser Slave Lake, Dr. Colleen Klein, and Dr. Olive Dickason, noted Historian on Aboriginal Peoples. Muriel Stanley Venne President and Founder of the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women stated she was very proud of the accomplishments of these courageous Métis women. “This is a unique historical record of our women ”Our Women in Uniform” reflects the dreams of these young women to defend our country. They give us a glimpse of their growing up, how things were during the war years, the courage it took to join up, the romance and toughness of it all” excerpt from the preface of the book.” In co-operation with the Aboriginal Veterans Society of Alberta a special wreath was laid by Bertha Clark-Jones at the November 11th Remembrance Day ceremonies at the U of A Butterdome “ to honour the Aboriginal women who served in the Canadian Forces”. To order a copy of “Our Women in Uniform” contact The Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women at 780-479-8195 or toll free at 1-877-471-2171. Métis Interest Métis project selection board committee MNA Zone IV Labour Market Development Program is recruiting new members to sit on their Project Selection Committee (PSC). The PSC (the committee, not the department that recruited you to the federal public service) is delegated with the responsibility to recommend approval or declination of all project-based training (this includes programs but does not include walk- in clients). The PSC assesses each submitted proposal according to its own merits based upon pre-determined guidelines. The PSC also ensures that projects promote equal opportunity for all Métis people and the Committee is responsible for developing a strategic labour market plan for the area and priorities for particular communities. The Zone IV Regional Council is responsible for appointing a maximum of six Committee members to the PSC. Selection is made from applications received by Zone IV. Following are the minimum qualifications: 1) Must be Métis as per the MNA by-laws and be residing in Zone IV. The Committee meets up to a few times per year, sometimes via conference calls. At least 14 days notice is given prior to any meetings. Remuneration includes a travel allowance of $0.30/km and parking OR taxi fare plus hotel accommodations, if required to stay overnight. Also included is a meal allowance to a maximum of $28.25 per day. Additionally, the reimbursement for incidentals on overnight stays is $6.00 per night. The honoraria paid is $75.00 for a full day and $50 for a half-day. DEADLINE TO APPLY IS FEBRUARY 06, 2004 - please contact Zone IV for further information or to receive the complete Terms of Reference: Ph: 780-944-9288 E-mail: zoneiv@telusplanet.net
Napoleon is reappearing after being absent from the Edmonton entertainment scene for a few years. Many of you will remember him as the 14 year old who performed his magic on the corner of Jasper Avenue and 101 Street. In 1981, at the official opening of Rice Howard Way, Mayor Lawrence Decore proclaimed Napoleon as Edmonton’s FIRST street performer. Napoleon was perceived as the person who brought visual arts to the streets of Edmonton. During his early years as a magician he was mentored by Fred Willarad who owned his own magic shop in Edmonton and traveled around the world thrilling audiences with his magic act. Even after 20 years Fred still says to Napoleon, “You know what to do, make me proud.” While Napoleon studied and learned his magic and illusions in Edmonton, he performed at many events and was the House Magician for West Edmonton Mall for 2 years. Countless people were able to see his ‘quick of hand magic’ at small events such as birthdays and anniversaries or large conferences and aboriginal celebration gatherings. Napoleon’s aboriginal heritage has always been a major part of his life. He is a Dene who can speak Cree and Sioux. He has also learned to speak Italian and German. Pride in his aboriginal background has influenced his performances by incorporating aspects of his ancestral ways. Many of his shows have been at aboriginal events around Alberta. When the opportunity came, he moved south to perform in Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas on stage at hotels such as the Frontier Hotel. His enthusiasm for magic and his desire to learn more led him to be befriended by famous magicians Siegfried and Roy, Johnny Paul, and Jimmy Rippel, all of whom were performing in Las Vegas at the time. His magic skills and out-going personality gave him the opportunity to be in the movies “War Brides”, “Bye Bye Blues”, and “Prom Night 1 & 2”. Napoleon recalls the time when in the script he was to open a cigarette case and offer a cigarette to a lady. When he opened the case there were no cigarettes BUT after some quick magic, they appeared in the case. The Director loved the idea and it became part of the movie. Napoleon is a man with many talents; magic and illusions are his greatest loves. But his family is of even greater importance and about 5 years ago he returned to Edmonton when his mom was diagnosed with cancer. Thankfully, the cancer went into remission. Napoleon remained in Edmonton and met a lady who gave him a beautiful daughter named Anastasia. During those early years back in Edmonton, he presented some shows and practiced diligently but fate had other plans. Over the last 2 years he has lost his father and three brothers, Kevin, Tyrone and Shayne. These losses were overwhelming but through a very strong belief in his aboriginal faith and guidance from his Elders, he is moving ahead. He does not drink or do drugs. With his love for magic and his desire to entertain he is now “reappearing’. Performing at recent Christmas parties was the beginning and now Don Clevett, Owner/ President of Hostour Enterprises have taken on the responsibility of being Napoleon’s agent and manager. Don is amazed at Napoleon’s skills and so has become the presenter for three “Aboriginal, Magic n’ Music Weekend” shows at the Provincial Museum of Alberta this February. Many people that Don has met remember Napoleon and as Don says “a magician can make things disappear and reappear, why not make a great magician reappear!” It will happen! Everyone is invited to see this incredible show which will headline Napoleon Rivetti and include other great aboriginal entertainers such as the Asani Singers, the White Buffalo Drummers and Dancers, Métis fiddler Gary Lee and guitarist Ray St. Germaine. The ‘Family Day Weekend ‘concept is of great importance to Don and Napoleon, both of whom recently lost their brothers. They want to dedicate the Family Day Weekend shows in their memory. They want the weekend to be SPECIAL FOR OTHERS, for people from all different ethnic backgrounds, family arrangements who wish to be truly amazed by some of Edmonton’s great aboriginal entertainers. It happens on Sunday, February 15 at 2:00 pm. and 7:00 pm. and on Monday, February 16 at 2:00 p.m. at the Provincial Museum of Alberta Theatre located at 12845 – 102 Ave. Tickets are $9 for Children 5 – 10 and $14 Adults. Tickets are available beginning February 1 at TIX ON THE SQUARE. Call 780 – 420 -1757 or on the internet www.tixonthesquare.ca. Remaining tickets will be available at the door one hour prior to show time. Organizations can call Don at 780-455-7233 or 780-919-0383 to purchase ticket packages of 25, 50, 75 and 100 at a discounted price. He is encouraging organizations to purchase packages of tickets to give to staff or to donate to groups like the Aboriginal Youth Groups, Big Sisters and Big Brothers, and Uncles at Large. CONTACT PERSON: Don Clevett (780) 919-0383
The Sacred Heart CHURCH OF THE FIRST PEOPLES of Edmonton is selling prints and note cards to fundraise money to renovate the walkway between the church and the rectory. “The Dance of the Eagle” note cards $10.00 for a set of six Contact 780-422-3052 to purchase a print or note card set.
This article is a lead to a future monthly article to be titled “Métis Me” by Muriel Stanley Venne. Muriel Stanley Venne, founder and president of the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women in Edmonton (IAAW), celebrates the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Métis women. “We come from a generation who basically made do with nothing,” explains Stanley Venne, referring to earlier times when her ancestors were unrecognized by the Canadian government, and were therefore landless and impoverished. “But our women met the challenges with a determined and resourceful spirit,” she contends. “Whether they were planting gardens, canning food, hunting wild animals, selling eggs and butter, or sewing children’s clothes from flour bags, they were ingenious in the ways they cared for their families. “They were beautiful, and I’ve heard they competed with each other to see who could make the most elaborately beaded moosehide jackets for their husbands. They worked hard to bring beauty into their world. They laughed and danced and joked … and they passed their pride down to their children.” Modern Aboriginal women face a new set of challenges, observes Stanley Venne. Coming from a background in politics and social and human issues, she founded the IAAW after responding to the plight of a young Aboriginal woman who needed support in dealing with the law. The incident underlined Stanley Venne’s growing awareness of the lack of resources available to Aboriginal women who face innumerable instances of abuse and injustice. Through the IAAW, Venne is dedicated to changing attitudes toward Aboriginal Women by building their talents and skills, addressing crimes against Aboriginal women, and highlighting their accomplishments. In 1996 the IAAW held the first Esquao (a stylized version of the Cree word for woman) Awards to recognize the positive efforts and accomplishments of Alberta Aboriginal women. “Aboriginal women have done such great things in the background. It was time to bring them front and centre, to honour and recognize them and show others what they are capable of,” Stanley Venne explains. Given the resources, leadership and volunteerism, we can take care of our own,” she says. “Métis Mothers” and “Métis Kids For Us” are groups assembled under the Métis Locals in Stony Plain to reach out to children and families. “A family might be struggling, and a helping hand is all that’s needed to make the difference between splitting apart or staying together … strong and proud,” Stanley Venne concludes.
To accomplish this, an Advisory Group is being established. The Advisory Group will initially consist of five to seven individuals. Individuals will be chosen because they have something unique to share with the organization, with the group and with the Aboriginal Community. The individuals will be chosen based on the following:
Please submit your cover letter & resume to:
This is not easy to write . . . hardly. Just how does one capture the entirety of one's life in so short a space, especially somebody like the late Joe P. Cardinal who passed away December 12 and was buried December 18, 2004 at the Saddle Lake Reserve, east of Edmonton? The man unselfishly gave so much of himself to so many thousands while he walked Mother Earth doing service beyond the call of duty. Here was a 'gentle giant' who didn't know the word, "no." Here was the imposing figure of a man, well over six feet tall in Indeed, one could hardly find a better role model from the Aboriginal community. Thus it was only fitting that this highly regarded Cree Elder was cherished as one of Alberta's dearest, most respected Elders. Joe P. was a tireless and devoted community-minded individual who served his people well, better than most and with a special fervor for youth. Aside from his terms as chief, Joe P. contributed many years serving on numerous committees and boards. Some of these included Native Counselling Services, Aboriginal Multi-Media Society of Alberta, Dreamcatcher Aboriginal Youth Conference and the National Parole Board. He was an active and instrumental player in the development and progress of Alberta Community Development, the Nechi Institute, Amiskwaciy Academy, an Elder Advisor to K Division of the RCMP and so much more. Joe P.'s vision - to help tomorrow's leaders, the youth - was his gift to the world . . . his legacy you might say. It is why he availed himself to the needs of youth so willingly, so selflessly, so committed. It is why he left behind and touched the lives of thousands of youth, and adults too, whether at the Dreamcatcher Conference, Amiskwaciy Academy, Ben Calf Robe Society, Davis Inlet or elsewhere. Indeed, Joe P. cast one huge shadow and leaves in his wake a large void in the community. Oh, there'll be others who come along but it won't be quite the same as when Joe P. was around. If anyone should be appreciated in this age, that person is Joe P. Cardinal - a man who made a difference, a man who cared, a man who lovingly sacrificed and gave of himself for the betterment and future of his people and others. His moccasins will not be easily filled. Joe P., modern-day warrior, we salute you. Thank you for being there for us. Hi-hi, hi-hi, hi-hi. Joe P. Cardinal leaves behind his wife Jennie, children Ernie (Phyllis), Theresa, Anne, Emil (Olive), Elaine (Eugene), Ricky, Mona (Calvin), and Achell, as well as one sister, numerous nieces and nephews, his adopted children, 22 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Turning in circles while standing still
If you would like NAIT programs delivered in your community, please call Stephen Crocker, Manager, Aboriginal Training Programs at 780-378-5035 or email scrocker@nait.ab.ca. Visit the NAIT website at www.nait.ab.ca.
In my simple traditional view “We are like Crows who gather when one crow finds a mouth full of meat and tells all of his friends and family. They all gather and sing about the great feast but, there is still only a mouth full and then the fight is on. The little red fox hears all the noise and in the middle of the fight he quietly walks in, picks up the mouth full and walks away.” The Creator through our Elder Brothers the Crows has taught us that “Gossip” is nothing more then half truths, lies, and exaggerations that feed no one but the little fox and harms all. But why do we “Gossip”? Within the Métis Nation it appears that some must have the power over others by using “Gossip” to improve their sense of self worth or status in the work place and the Community. I say to them that they are nothing more than Crows, the scavengers of the Métis Nation. They have no value and contribute nothing to the building of our Nation. “The Creator has taught us all, that whatever we do and say as we walk on Mother Earth has a direct affect on all things great and small.” “Gossip” is the Wedigo that eats our Métis Nation from within and the higher that person’s position is in that Community or workplace the more harm it does. Each employee or persons in a position of trust must be above gossip. A signed “Code of Confidentiality & Ethics” is needed in the Métis Nation to stop Gossip and those who spread its harm. Each employee, and leader should be required to sign it, with the full knowledge that breaches of confidentiality and gossip will no longer be tolerated. We should be compassionate, supportive and speak only the truth when a member of our Nation falls on hard times. If they have done wrong, get them the help they need. To judge someone through gossip is to judge yourself, and you will always come up a lesser person.
We're looking for your original writing for the Standing Together project. Here's your opportunity to stand beside thousands of Alberta women who are trying to overcome family violence in their own homes or have struggled with personal adversities throughout their lives. "Through my years in public life, I have met so many women who are heroes," said Children's Services Minister Iris Evans. "They have overcome a wide range of challenges including poverty, family violence and health problems. They are an inspiration to me and to women everywhere that perseverance and a will to survive will help get us through life's hardships." The Alberta Council of Women's Shelters is planning to publish a book to celebrate the experiences of Alberta women who have struggled, and yet live rich and joyful lives. We invite you to contribute your own original writing: a tribute to another Alberta woman, or a brief personal story about yourself. Each submission should be between 500 and 1,500 words and can take the form of personal story or poetry. Please provide a brief biography to accompany each submission. All submissions must be mailed and cannot be accepted electronically. Submissions should be typed and double-spaced on 8.5 x 11 paper. We will decline fiction, and writing that has been published before. The book will raise funds for community projects for the prevention of family violence across the province. Each submission will be read but those not accepted for publication will not be returned. Authors will be notified in writing. With the permission of the authors, all submissions will be published on a web site, and assembled in an archival collection as an enduring tribute to Alberta's women. Authors will be paid an honourarium of $100 for submissions published in the book. This honourarium can be donated back to the project for a tax-deductible receipt. If your community organization would like to join the Standing Together project to help sponsor or sell the book, please contact the Alberta Council of Women's Shelters. Deadline for submissions: March 30, 2004 For more information contact Jan Reimer, Provincial Co-ordinator, at 780-456-7000 or visit www.acws.ca.
Gerry & Louise Myre Contact information: wilduo@telusplanet.net or 780-776-2296.
Check us out. Our course list is expanding. 1-866-NLC-3456
It’s a well known fact that you can make compost out of garbage and that by putting that compost in your flower gardens you can make flowers grow. They will be strong and healthy. What’s not very well known is that you can become strong and healthy by composting some of the garbage that others have brought into your life. One simple technique for ridding yourself of the garbage of anger and resentment towards someone is to “become” that person. Sit down quietly and contemplate on the image of the person you hate. Think of their feelings of suffering, happiness, hopes, dreams and also their fears. Imagine their motivations for their actions toward you. Base it on your knowledge of their background and experiences. Think about their childhood. Think about their parents, community, schooling and whatever else you can remember about them. Keep contemplating their life until you can feel compassion instead of anger and you will have accomplished something unique. You will have “made flowers grow” in your life. You will have transformed garbage into something that gives life and energy. Practice contemplation: today imagine that you are going to grow emotionally. Imagine your pain being turned into strength instead of weakness. Let yourself grow up and out of your pain. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR ORGANIZING COMMITTEE The Alberta Aboriginal Youth Achievement Awards seeks volunteers for its organizing committee - if you or your organization wishes to contribute or otherwise participate in the development of these awards, please contact Amanda or Kim at the MNA (780)455-2200.
As I had mentioned last month, the Métis Nation of Alberta is currently engaged in community meetings regarding our Governance structures. During one of the community meetings, a Métis Elder asked me if I could say Constitution in Cree. Naturally, I was embarrassed at first to say that I couldn’t. It then dawned on me, that he didn’t really want me to say it in Cree, but to explain it in plain language so everyone could understand. Thank you to the Elder who reminded me to keep it simple. A Constitution is basically a reflection of a Nation’s soul. During my travels, I have asked the question, what do you think should be the foundation of OUR Métis Constitution? I have heard our people say that the foundation of our Métis Constitution is Métis communities and Métis individuals. It is our collective voice; it is our Nationality, our beliefs, values, customs, languages, and traditions. I also heard that our Métis constitution needs to protect our civil rights, our freedom and equality. Another comment I heard was to make sure we review Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution where Recognition of Aboriginal/Treaty Rights, Land, natural resources are outlined in the definition of Aboriginal people. Another question I have asked many of our Métis people is what should our Métis Nation of Alberta governance structure look like? This is what I heard so far; we should govern ourselves as a Nation of people. We should look and act like a Government. Our policies should be in line with local, provincial and federal government Authorities, i.e. Housing Authorities, Education Authorities. Another key point, which I have been hearing loud and clear, is communications. A process to communicate within the administration, membership, funders and the public is essential in good governance. I see the benefit of revisiting and redesigning our current governance style and structures, and most importantly, our Métis people see this. It is a commitment that we need to take on together, to continue building our Métis Nation. I will continue to bring your voice forward as we progress with the governance review, thank you to those who have shared their vision of our Métis Nation thus far. Long live the Métis Nation!
Bryan Joseph Lawrence 1930-2003 He was a founding and lifetime member of the MNA Local #8, and just recently in a ceremony in Medicine was given his Elder Sash. Bryan worked for the CPR for 17 years as a railroad fireman. Bryan had a great love, understanding and respect for nature and the outdoors. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace. Love his brother, Dale Lawrence Herbert C. (Pezo) Bell 1933-2004 Edward Laboucan James Courtorielle Mary Poitras 1919 - 2004
Happy Sweet 16th Birthday to Corbin Poitras of Elk Point on January 24, 2004. Happy 65th Birthday to Mrs. Maria Boucher of Lac La Biche!
1. When and where was Gabriel Dumont born? 2. What was Gabriel Dumont’s education? 3. What was Gabriel Dumont’s role in the 1885 resistance at the Battle of Batoche?
1. Gabriel Dumont was born in the Red River area in 1837. 2. Gabriel's education consisted of learning the ways of the prairie and by age ten he was fluent in six Indian languages as well as French. 3. Gabriel Dumont became the military leader of the Métis people in the Batoche area.
February 1, 1874 Riel wins federal election for the riding of Provencher even though he is still in exile in the U.S. February 4, 1885 Canada informs Métis that a commission will form to hear their grievances. Source: Métis Historical Calendar from the Métis Resource Centre Inc.
Recipe Bannock on the trail Hugh Belcourt 3 cups of flour 2 tbsp baking powder Combine flour, salt and baking powder in a large bowl. Add oil and water. Turn out onto floured surface and knead (or stomp on it with your bare feet) about 8 or 10 times. Roll out to about 1 inch thick or for a special treat for your sweetie, shape into hearts, put on a pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 350 F.
To receive the newsletter via email or to send submissions of interest to the Métis community, simply email info@metismatters.com. The deadline for the March issue is Monday, February 16, 2004. Please forward to others who may be interested in keeping updated on our community. The Métis Matters newsletter accepts donations to assist in the cost of monthly publishing. Métis Matters Foundation of Alberta Long Live the Métis Nation! Sincerely, Disclaimer: Any information in the Métis Matters Newsletter is not intended to cause harm to anyone or any organization. The views expressed in this newsletter are those of its contributors and is intended to provide a tool of communication between people, and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of any Métis local, region, provincial organization or its affiliates.
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Metis Matters: August 2008 |
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